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Elite Rizer simulates climbing, descending, AND steering for realistic trainer workouts

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We’re still a ways off from a completely immersive cycling simulator, but thanks to products like the new Elite Rizer — we’re getting closer. Riders looking for the most realistic training while stationary indoors now have a new option for the front end. The Elite Rizer combines a motorized fork support that also allows for steering input to take your Zwifting to the next level.

Gradient Simulator

Elite Rizer gradient simulator

Just what is a ‘gradient simulator?’ Well, it starts with removing the front wheel of your bike. You then attach your fork dropouts to the ‘hub’ on the Rizer, and it uses motors to raise or lower the front end of the bike. This simulates the positioning you’d get while riding, which in turn helps use different muscle groups than you would use just training in one position.

The Rizer provides up to +20% inclines, and -10% declines, which puts it on par with the Wahoo KICKR CLIMB. Thanks to built in Bluetooth and ANT+, the Rizer will communicate directly with programs like Zwift to emulate the grades in the game, automatically rising or lowering based on the virtual terrain.

If you’d rather control things manually, there are controls on the top of the unit to allow you to do just that. It’s also controllable through the Rizer app for iOS and Android devices.

Steering on a Trainer

Steering on a trainer
 

However, the Rizer sets itself apart by incorporating steering functionality into the fork mount. It appears that this allow the fork to rotate, and also move side to side for realistic movement. What’s not known is the range of steering — we’ve found some of these steering devices to be limiting on games like Hustle City where gameplay requires big corrections, but the turning radius of the steering device prevents you from doing so.

Like the incline/decline, steering is enabled with Bluetooth and ANT+ meaning you won’t need to use your phone as a steering sensor for various games or training programs.

Elite Rizer Details & Pricing

Automatic fork raiser for indoor cycling+
 

Elite also claims that the Rizer is the most stable device of its kind thanks to a rigid aluminum and steel structure with four adjustable feet. Still, there is a weight limit of 264.5lbs, which we’d assume includes the weight of your bike (sans front wheel).

Compatible with most bikes, the Rizer includes fitments for QR, 12×100, 15×100, and 15×110 thru axles. Basically everything except bikes with 20mm axles, or fat bikes.

Elite says the Rizer is compatible with the Direto XR, Direto XR-T, Suito, Suito-T, and Tuo trainers, but there’s no reason to believe it shouldn’t be compatible with trainers from other brands as well. Elite also states that the Rizer is compatible with Zwift, The SufferFest, Ful Gaz, RGT, Bkool, and more training apps.

Priced at $1,099.99, expect the Rizer to be available in the U.S. this fall.

elite-it.com

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Richard
Richard
2 years ago

“…but there’s no reason to believe it shouldn’t be compatible with trainers from other brands as well.”
Eh, actually the kikr climb sets a precedent for brand locking, and while I hate it, they do make a couple good points about why:
1) A trainer made without this sort of rotation in mind simply might not work – there may be interference between the frame or derailleur and the trainer, or the trainer attachment may be rigid and not support rotation, etc.
2) ANT+ doesn’t have protocol specifically for gradient only, so it would have to connect as a second trainer – and bluetooth doesn’t really have a defined standard for connecting trainer-to-riser; would likely need to be direct to PC, which then means software has to specifically support it…

Anyway, I do hope they make it cross-brand compatible! But I definitely see reasons to doubt they will.

Richard
Richard
2 years ago

Actually, I retract my previous statement – looks like it just ‘latches on’ to another ant+ trainer and picks up the gradient from that data stream. So, protocol seems isn’t an issue, only mechanical compatibility… And hopefully that’s something we can work through!

K-Pop is dangerous to your health
K-Pop is dangerous to your health
2 years ago

Cool to see the evolution of trainer tech. Assume the acceleration of global warming and pandemics is pushing this along. All outdoor sports are eventually going to end up in a Holodeck™

dartmouth11
2 years ago

Too bad this wont help Zwift users to actually learn to drive their bikes..

Astro Kraken
Astro Kraken
2 years ago

I already have a kickr and kickr climb, but if I were in the market for a whole new system it would be this.*

*if there’s a rocker plate that’s compatible.

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