Minneapolis, Minnesota based Kinetic has just pulled the curtain off a new electronically-controlled and web connected resistance unit for their indoor trainers that brings a new level of training capabilities to their unique line-up. Known for their unique Rock and Roll trainer that requires a cyclist to balance the bike as they train, rocking back and forth to better simulate an on-the-road feel and work on a wider set of stability muscles, Kinetic will now connected resistance training to this and other stationary trainers. The new Smart Control resistance unit is a step up from their current top-of-the-line Smart setup that previously included power calculation and output to mobile devices, but now Smart Control takes it a step farther by adding interactivity to the training experience…
Kinetic is calling the new Rock and Roll Smart Control the first free moving electronic resistance trainer, which isn’t a big leap since their pivoting trainer is still quite unique. This flagship trainer will take over the top slot in their line-up this fall, and unlike a lot of product introductions at this tradeshow time of year, Kinetic will have the new trainers rolling out of the door by late September to get you spinning the legs indoors through the coming colder months.
The new connected Smart Control resistance unit is electronically-controlled and includes a high-mass flywheel for the highest inertia of any smart trainer on the market. No details have been released yet as to what wattage range or simulated grade the resistance unit will be able to reproduce through the app-based immersive control, but we’ll report back when we know more.
It carries over Kinetic’s quiet operation, accurate & reliable power data collection, and realistic ride feel. The Smart Control unit connects via Bluetooth Smart to compatible mobile devices and their updated Kinetic Fit power training app, that combines ride data and personalized training with video integration, with the option to stream youtube playlists, your own DropBox stored video, and even The Sufferfest videos with a subscription. Every new Smart Control trainer or separate power unit comes with 6 months of Kinetic’s Smart training plan and workout subscription. The new Smart control setup is compatible with iOS & Android devices, and 3rd-part y apps like Zwift and TrainerRoad, which will be able to provide feedback and resistance control.
The new Smart Control resistance unit will not be restricted to their top-tier Rock and Roll platform either. It will also be available on their fixed-base Road Machine for about three-quarters the price. The Rock and Roll, Smart Control will sell for $850/750€ with the full side-to-side motion road feel, while the fixed base Road Machine, Smart Control will go for $650/580€
The Smart Control power/resistance unit will also be sold separately for Kinetic owners who want to upgrade their current setup. It’s no small upgrade though, at $550/500€, but will offer the full connected, power calculating, and resistance controlled functionality to current Rock and Roll, Road Machine, Magnetic, or Cyclone trainer owners. The unit bolts on in a few minutes, and will instantly expand the immersive training experience.
