Wahoo KICKR Bike vs. Bike SHIFT: How They Even Differ?

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Wahoo yesterday unveiled its new, more affordable smart bike called the KICKR Bike Shift. But how is it different from the current Wahoo KICKR Bike v2? And which one is worth investing in?

In this article, you will find out!

Wahoo KICKR Bike vs. Wahoo KICKR Shift Comparison

Wahoo KICKR Bike or Wahoo KICKR Shift?

The following table summarizes their most important features.

Let me now explain the individual differences below.

Setup and Fit Adjustment

Both smart bikes allow you to adjust stack, reach, setback, saddle height, and frame height.

However, their adjustment mechanism differs. KICKR Bike uses quick releases, while Bike Shift levers.

It depends on your preference which system you like more.

They also offer the same crank lengths: 165, 167.5, 170, 172.5 and 175mm. That’s where they have an edge over the Tacx NEO Bike.

With Shift, you should not encounter an issue with inner thighs rubbing against the frame as it has a slimmer profile.

Gradient & Decline Simulation

Wahoo KICKR Bike and Shift offer 20% gradient simulation. They can’t simulate decline like Tacx NEO Bike (Plus).

This gradient is difficult enough for most people, so some apps like Zwift halve the difficulty by default. This means that the gradient will feel like 10%, not 20%.

However, you can turn this feature off and “enjoy” suffering in the form of super steep gradients.

The biggest difference between KICKR Bike and Shift is that the KICKR Bike can also tilt. This tilt is controllable via buttons on the hoods or via the 3rd party apps.

This feature makes riding the KICKR Bike more engaging and fun because the entire bike tilts when you start climbing (or descending).

This effect is more realistic than with Wahoo CLIMB or Elite RIZER, thanks to the center pivot point (the same center point as riding outside). CLIMB and RIZER use the rear wheel as the center point.

Shifting and Gearing

Both smart bikes use virtual gears, which you can customize (the number of teeth and sprockets).

Wahoo KICKR uses Shimano-like shifters, so they feel intuitive. Additionally, you can use the Wahoo app to configure their behavior to Shimano, SRAM, or Campy.

Third-party Apps Compatibility and Controllability

Both smart bikes are compatible with leading indoor cycling apps like Zwift, ROUVY, TrainerRoad, and more.

They use ANT+ FEC and Bluetooth connectivity and are controllable via mobile and desktop apps or cycling computers.

Furthermore, both have WiFi to download firmware updates and save you some precious Bluetooth ports.

Practicality

From the practical standpoint, more points go to the KICKR Bike. And that’s just because it has a handy display showing your ride info like power or cadence, but mainly the used gear.

Shift doesn’t have a display, so you may miss it unless indoor cycling apps start to implement showing virtual gears.

Both bikes have at least one USB port for recharging your devices.

Winner: Wahoo KICKR Shift

Ride Realism

I have not been able to try these smart bikes side by side yet. However, I guess their ride feel will be similar despite the different technologies used.

However, neither KICKR Bike nor Shift can simulate different riding surfaces (cobbles, gravel, etc.) like NEO Bike (NEO Bike Plus).

Winner: It’s a draw

Rider’s Weight Limit

The Wahoo KICKR Bike and Shfit rider’s weight limit is the same: 250 lb (113 kg).

Price

The Wahoo KICKR Bike is $1000 (€1000) more expensive than the Wahoo KICKR Shift. It costs $3999.99, making it one of the most expensive pieces of indoor cycling equipment you can buy. Wahoo KICKR Shift retails for $2999.99.

Naturally, the question is:

Are Wahoo KICKR Bike and Wahoo KICKR Shift worth it?

They are more than twice as expensive as most high-end smart bike trainers. So, isn’t it just better to put your bike into a bike trainer or buy a used bike and smart trainer?

Well, as always, it depends. Smart bikes are more sophisticated, creating an ultimate platform for indoor training.

One of the biggest benefits of smart bikes is that they are super quiet, so you won’t disturb your household members.

They also allow for easy fit adjustments. So, for example, if you have a partner who also wants to train indoors, you can adjust the fit.

They are also suitable for beginners who don’t have a bike or a bike trainer because smart bikes are an “out of the box” solution.

So, although smart bikes are costly, their price is justifiable for a certain group of people. At this point, you should already have a clear idea of whether they suit you.

Wahoo KICKR Bike vs. Wahoo KICKR Shift FAQ

Summary

Choose the Wahoo KICKR Bike if you want to experience more “fun” thanks to the tilt feature. The entire Bike can tilt itself depending on the gradient you ride in an indoor cycling app.

Wahoo KICKR Shift doesn’t have this feature, and it also doesn’t have a display and has 300W lower maximum resistance (which is honestly irrelevant), but it costs $1000 less.

I would go for Shift. $1000 is a lot of money you can spend otherwise (here are some cool road bike upgrades).

Do you agree with my conclusion? If not, why? Let me know in the comments below.