Jet Black’s new Z1 Pro model is the successor to the Z1 and gets the largest stock flywheel ever at 6.6 lbs, more than triple what it was before. There are heavier aftermarket flywheels out there, but they say this is the heaviest one that comes standard on any trainer. A heavier flywheel gives it a much longer coast down times for a more realistic feel.
It’s a fluid trainer, so it’s quiet, particulaly with it’s oversized gel roller, and gives you less tire wear. Beyond the flywheel and gel, the closure mechanism is all new and rather nifty…
Zach’s been testing the Z1 with the same Hydrogel roller and been very happy with it.
The axle lever has switched from a side mounted version to a rotating one that’s integrated into the frame. It’ll work with anything from track bikes to thru axle.
It uses a linchpin to make big width adjustments, then the non-drove side makes the fine adjustments via the usual dial. Once that’s done, it simply closes down to lock the bike into the trainer.
Both the M5 Pro and Z1 Pro get the new closure. The Z1 Pro retail is $369.
Their new Whisper Drive is aiming to be the quietest direct drive trainer on the market by swapping the usual fan for a magnetic resistance unit. At $699, it’s on the lower end of the direct drive trainer price range, and it’ll fight your efforts all the way up to 1,200 watts.
