Wahoo KICKR v5 vs. Saris H3: Which One to Buy?

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This is my comparison of Wahoo KICKR v5 vs. Saris H3 smart bike trainers.

I have used them for some time, and in this article, I explain their differences, pros, and cons.

You will also learn which one to choose based on your preferences.

In short: Both are great, and you can’t go wrong with either of them. It only depends on how demanding you are in terms of accuracy, ERG mode, and connectivity.

Continue reading to learn more.

NOTE: Wahoo KICKR v5 was discontinued, but v6 is similar.

Technical Specifications

Here is the summary of the technical specifications of Wahoo KICKR v5 and Saris H3.

Pros & Cons Summary

I summarized the pros & cons of both bike trainers below.

Features Comparison

Let me now compare both smart bike trainers in depth.

Ease of Setup and Practicality

Both bike trainers are easy to set up. 

Saris H3 comes without a cassette, so you must buy it separately and install it. KICKR v5 comes with a pre-installed cassette.

The only thing you have to do to start riding is to choose the correct adaptors for your bike. 

KICKR also has different positions for different bike types. But it takes just a few seconds to adjust them.

From the practicality standpoint, I like KICKR v5 more because of its carry handle. It’s much easier to move around. 

It also doesn’t take up as much space when it’s folded. However, the difference is marginal.

Winner: Wahoo KICKR v5

Road Feel

In terms of road feel, I didn’t find many differences. Both trainers are responsive when the gradients change in indoor cycling apps.

They can simulate high-enough resistance and gradient, so most of us won’t be able to push them to the limits (unless you are a powerful track sprinter).

KICKR v5 has a slight edge, though. That’s because of the side-to-side tilt. The overall riding comfort is better because Saris H3 is too rigid.

However, this doesn’t tip the scale in favor of KICKR. Using a rocker plate is still a better option.

Winner: It’s a draw

ERG Mode

Saris H3 is one of the best smart bike trainers for ERG mode. It reacts to power changes quickly but fluently and not aggressively. 

However, this doesn’t mean KICKR is bad for structured training. Its ERG mode is also good. It’s just not as ‘confident.’

It tends to struggle a little with sending the right resistance when your cadence varies.

But, to notice a difference, you have to ride the trainers side-by-side and be picky.

Winner: Saris H3

Noisiness

The noisiness of both bike trainers is around 58 dB. My bike’s drivetrain causes more noise than the trainers themselves.

H3 is about 1 dB noisier than KICKR in higher-resistance levels, tough. However, this difference is hard to distinguish.

So, if you count every dB, get KICKR v5. Otherwise, noisiness shouldn’t be the deciding factor.

Winner: Wahoo KICKR v5

Accuracy

The claimed accuracy of KICKR v5 is ±1% and H3 ±2%. But what’s the reality?

I concluded a series of tests in my reviews of both these trainers where I compared the data with other power sources (like Favero Assioma DUO).

KICKR varied by 0.4 % on average from Favero, so it was within the claimed accuracy. 

However, I was surprised by the results of H3, which had a deviation of only 0.5% on average while having a claimed accuracy of 2%.

Because the claimed accuracy of H3 is ±1% worse, I chose KICKR as the winner. However, both trainers are accurate and fully suitable for average Joes.

High-demanding riders or e-racers will probably prefer KICKR for its marginal gains.

Winner: Wahoo KICKR v5

Total score: Wahoo KICKR v5 (3) | Saris H3 (1) | It’s a draw (1)
Overall winner: Wahoo KICKR v5

Wahoo KICKR v5 vs. Saris H3 FAQ

My Verdict

Considering the steep discounts on Saris H3, thanks to which you can get it for around $600, it’s an absolute steal of a deal. 

It’s a perfect smart trainer for structured training, thanks to its responsive and accurate ERG mode.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t come with a cassette, is more difficult to move around, and has no auto-calibration.

KICKR v5, on the other hand, is more expensive, retailing for around $1100. But for some people, this price difference may not be justifiable. 

So, where the KICKR has an edge? First, its flawless compatibility with Wahoo accessories like the CLIMB or HEADWIND. 

It’s also easier to move around thanks to the carry handle, has a little more realistic ride feel, and doesn’t take up as much space when folded.

So, which one should you buy?

Get Saris H3 if you find it discounted and you don’t need the highest-end specs and don’t mind performing calibration occasionally.

Otherwise, get KICKR.

However, regardless of which of these bike trainers you choose, both will take your indoor training to the next level.