It’s time for yet another new robot bike simulator – this time from Bkool. While their trainers have always had a a pleasing design element, the new Smart Air takes it to another level. Not only does the trainer give the illusion of a complete bike when mounted, but the design is purpose driven to offer a better ride and protect your bike.
Unlike most direct drive trainers that support the bike from the bottom and the sides, the Smart Air “suspends” the bike from the top. That allows for the frame to incorporate at 6° side-to-side rocking mechanism to simulate ride feel both in and out of the saddle. It supposedly also protects the frame from torsion from being held in a rigid trainer.
Inside the trainer is a power system capable of up to 3,000 watts with a motor system that will simulate grades of up to 25% and speeds of 70kph. Power measurement is provided through an infrared sensor and claims to have a less than 2% margin of error.
Weighing in at 24kg, trainer is ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart compatible and is said to be very quiet thanks to a new cooling system. The trainer is said to be compatible with 12mm thru axles, though which 12mm axle widths is not provided. It also mentions that the trainer is compatible with most cassettes from 7 to 11 speeds. For those riders on 12 speed, the SunRace 12 speed cassette will fit the same freehub, and should work with most drivetrains.
The price for the Smart Air is still TBA, though the trainers should start shipping in January.
