CyclistsHub is supported by its readers. We may receive a commission if you buy products using our links (learn more).
This article explains the differences between Wahoo KICKR (v6), Wahoo KICKR MOVE, and Wahoo CORE smart bike trainers.
KEY TAKEAWAY:
Wahoo KICKR ($1299) is considered a gold standard in smart trainers thanks to its accuracy, reliability, and high-end specs (2200W resistance, 20% gradient simulation, and ±1% accuracy).
Wahoo KICKR MOVE ($1599) is the same as KICKR, but has fore and aft movement and is more expensive.
Wahoo CORE ($699) is the most affordable, providing lower specs than KICKR but still capable enough for most people who want to start with indoor cycling. Remember, though, the cassette is not included.
Wahoo KICKR vs. MOVE vs. CORE
The main difference between Wahoo KICKR, MOVE, and CORE is that MOVE offers fore-and-aft movement for added riding comfort and realism. But it’s more expensive than KICKR. KICKR and MOVE also provide higher resistance than CORE (2200W vs. 1800W), higher accuracy (±1 vs. ±2%), steeper gradient simulation (20 vs. 16%), and a few other features. These include an ERG Easy Ramp, an odometer, and WiFi.
Design-wise, they differ as well.
I summarized the technical specifications of all trainers in the following table.
| Feature | KICKR v6 | KICKR MOVE | CORE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resistance | 2200W | 2200W | 1800W |
| Gradient simulation | 20% | 20% | 16% |
| Power accuracy | ±1% | ±1% | ±2% |
| Noisiness | Same | Same | Same |
| Auto zero | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Power required | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Flywheel | 16 lb (7.26 kg) | 16 lb (7.26 kg) | 12 lb (5.45 kg) |
| Connectivity | ANT+, ANT+ FE-C, WiFi, Bluetooth, Direct Connect | ANT+, ANT+ FE-C, WiFi, Bluetooth, Direct Connect | ANT+, ANT+ FE-C, Bluetooth, Direct Connect |
| Fore-aft movement | No | Yes | No |
| Side-to-side movement¹ | Yes | Yes | No |
| 12-speed cassette support | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Cassette included | Yes | Yes | No |
| ERG Easy Ramp | Yes | Yes | No |
| Odometer | Yes | Yes | No |
| Weight | 47 lb (21.3 kg) | 47 lb (21.3 kg) | 40 lb (18 kg) |
| Buy (USA) | Check Price Check Price (competitivecyclist.com) | Check Price | Check Price Check Price (competitivecyclist.com) |
| Buy (UK, EU) | Check Price (wiggle.com) | n/a | Check Price (wiggle.com) |
¹The AXIS feet side-to-side movement is relatively limited.
I didn’t have a chance to try KICKR MOVE yet, but I believe it will increase riding comfort. Trainers without movement are the worst. They put excessive pressure on your intimate parts. That’s why rocker plates are so popular.
You can also watch the following video introducing KICKR MOVE.
Except for the fore-and-aft movement, KICKR and KICKR MOVE also offer side-to-side movement thanks to the AXIS feet.
I use KICKR for indoor training, and this movement is limited. Don’t expect a rocker plate level of tilt. But it’s better than no tilt at all.
Also available at competitivecyclist.com and wiggle.com
Also available at competitivecyclist.com and wiggle.com
Resistance and Accuracy
KICKR and KICKR MOVE provide higher maximum resistance (2200W vs. 1800W) thanks to a larger flywheel, 16 lb vs. 12 lb (7.26 kg vs. 5.45 kg). Honestly, even the 1800W is enough for most people. My maximum peak power doesn’t exceed 1000W.
The difference is in the ride feel. The CORE may feel less realistic. But you would have to ride the trainers side by side.
The accuracy might be more important for you, depending on your fitness goals. But the 1% difference is easy to forget. The following table shows the watt differences.
| Accuracy | 250W | 500W | 1000W | 2000W |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1% | 247.5-252.5 | 495-505 | 990-1010 | 1980-2020 |
| 2% | 245-255 | 490-510 | 980-1020 | 1960-2040 |
| 3% | 242.5-257.5 | 485-515 | 970-1030 | 1940-2060 |
| 4% | 240-260 | 480-520 | 960-1040 | 1920-2080 |
| 5% | 237.5-262.5 | 475-525 | 950-1050 | 1900-2100 |
WiFi Connectivity
The 2.4 GHz WiFi connectivity ensures automatic firmware updates (so you don’t have to update the trainer manually).
It’s also good news for Apple TV users. Apple TV limits Bluetooth connections to 2 devices only (including the trainer).
So, for example, you have one slot left for a heart rate monitor. The WiFi connectivity frees up the Bluetooth slots for additional accessories.
You will also appreciate it if you experience Bluetooth or ANT+ connectivity issues (due to signal interference).
ERG Easy Ramp
ERG Easy Ramp is a handy feature when you do a lot of riding in an ERG mode.
You know that feeling when you have to stop pedaling when doing an interval in ERG mode, for example, because somebody is ringing.
Then, you want to start pedaling again, but it’s almost impossible because of the resistance.
The ERG Easy Ramp increases the resistance gradually over 10 seconds, so you can get back to training easily.
Odometer
The Odometer measures the number of physical wheel revolutions. So, when you buy a second-hand KICKR MOVE, you can ask the previous owner to show you the kilometers ridden.
Practicality
The Wahoo KICKR is, in my opinion, the most practical trainer of the three. This is mainly due to its weight, foldability, and carry handle. You’ll especially appreciate this if you don’t have a permanent training area.
With the Wahoo KICKR CORE, the downside is that you can’t fold its legs. So you have to disassemble it during the off-season so it doesn’t take up as much space.
The least practical is the KICKR MOVE. It is the heaviest and takes up the most space.
Wahoo KICKR vs. KICKR MOVE vs. CORE FAQ
Summary
You get the best bang for your buck with KICKR CORE. Wahoo recently lowered its price to $699 and bundled it with a 1-year Zwift membership (worth ~$180).
The question is: Is the KICKR worth almost double the price of CORE? Will you appreciate the higher accuracy, better foldability, limited side-to-side tilt, and slightly better ride feel?
The KICKR MOVE is a response to the popularity of rocker plates and the Tacx NEO 2T with NEO Plates, which I’ve already tried and reviewed.
The fore-and-aft motion will indeed add a new dimension to your indoor workout. However, the $300 price difference is not worth it to me. What about you? Let me know in the comments below.
If you decide to buy one of the compared trainers, please consider using the links below. It’s the best way to support Cyclists Hub and won’t cost you anything extra.
Also available at competitivecyclist.com and wiggle.com
Also available at competitivecyclist.com and wiggle.com
