For many of us, it’s time to start thinking of setting up the trainer. For others, the trainer rides never stop, and indoor racing is the target. No matter what your “trainer life” looks like, there are things we all want; quicker trainer response, no more dropped signals, and timely updates before you ride. It seems that Wahoo has been listening to the feedback of the e-sports race community and updated its Wahoo KICKR Bike and KICKR Smart Trainer for the next frontier of eRacing.
What’s new? Wahoo KICKR Trainer and KICKR Bike
If you look at the products, you would be hard-pressed to notice the difference, but if you look closely, some will stick out. You’ll notice that the ANT+ logo on both devices now has a WiFi symbol, but there’s more than meets the eye.
Wahoo WiFi
The updated Wahoo KICKR (Bike and Trainer) features WiFi connectivity. The WiFi will enable a seamless and connected user experience across the Wahoo ecosystem (Wahoo X and RGT). Wahoo says switching to WiFi delivers on-screen stats over 65% faster than before, making workouts and eRacing more precise!
The KICKR still has Bluetooth and ANT+, the same as the previous models. For those racing, this means less signal drop during races and less interference without dropping. Having WiFi enables quick firmware updates while you’re not training — as long as the trainer is plugged in. Plus, it removes the need to pair the trainer (or bike) to your Apple TV/Computer, freeing up additional space for accessories.
ERG easy ramp
Did you ever have to step off the trainer mid-interval only to get back on and have to put out what seems like 1000w to get back on pace? Those days are over with the addition of the ERG easy ramp on the new Wahoo KICKR and KICK Bike. The new update will pace you back over 10 seconds, gradually ramping up power/pace.
Odometer
An odometer may sound odd to have on a trainer, but when you think of the resale market and the overall life of the trainer, it makes sense. The odometer will give the user accurate service intervals if needed and keep an eye on the drive train (cassette) installed. Think of it as a way to keep your trainer in top condition and get the best product knowledge if you’re buying used.
Direct connection and 2500w max — Wahoo KICKR Bike only
For those who love the KICKR Bike ride, the super customizable, ultra bike is getting some updates that the KICKR smart trainer isn’t. The KICKR Bike receives all the updates above but adds in Direct Connection. A direct connection means you can attach the KICKR Bike directly to your router for constant, no-drop virtual riding or racing. Another addition to the KICKR Bike is a max wattage of 2500 watts for those climbing the Alp de Zwift in the big ring.
Key features — KICKR V6 Smart Trainer
- WiFi Connectivity
- ERG Easy Ramp
- Odometer
- KICKR Ride Feel
- KICKR AXIS Feet
- Auto Calibration & Updates
- 2200 Watts of Resistance
- Climb Compatible
- Wahoo X – Train Without Limits
- Rear wheel size: 24”, 650C, 700C Mtb: 24”, 26”, 650B, 29”
- Cassette (Included: 11-Spd 11-28T, compatible with SRAM, Shimano, and Campagnolo
- Price: $1,300
Key features — KICKR Bike 2.0
- WiFi Connectivity
- ERG Easy Ramp
- Odometer
- Direct Connect
- Industry Leading 2500 Watts of Resistance
- KICKR Ride Feel•Integrated Climb (20% Incline/-15% Decline)
- TruFit Adjustability
- Virtual Shifting
- Auto Calibration & Updates
- Wahoo Ecosystem Compatibility
- Wahoo X – Train Without Limits
- Price: $4,000
First impressions — Wahoo KICKR V6
When the box arrived with the new Wahoo KICKR V6, I expected a new design, maybe a new color — nope. That’s a good thing, I guess; I train on a Wahoo KICKR V5 and was curious what, if anything, they could update.
At first, I didn’t see much difference in the aesthetics of the trainer. There isn’t much difference between the V5 and V6 side to side, but I noticed them as I started getting ready to ride. First, the setup is super easy, like the previous model. All you need to do is get it level and in a position to engage the KICKR AXIS Feet correctly.
Next, find the right end caps for your bike. The KICKR V6 has options for all bikes as far as spacing is concerned. I noticed the slight redesign of the endcaps. The new ones allow for an easy freehub change (to the SRAM XDR), and the cap fits slightly more securely than the past version. The previous version could fall out while moving the trainer without a bike installed, and the new ones stay in place.
After swapping the KCIKR V5 for the V6, I started pairing via the Wahoo App, connecting the trainer to my WiFi network. The KICKR then updated itself quickly. I paired it with my KICKR Climb, and then I hit the roads of Wahoo RGT.
I frequently train on RGT, so I figured I would immediately notice any updates. Everything felt standard; everything felt right on — no messing around. I noticed the hills and descents seemed to engage faster on the trainer and the climbing unit, but that could have been in ride excitement.
As for the ERG easy ramp, this feature is very noticeable. I was pulled away from the trainer ride for a request, and when I remounted the bike, I instinctively went to grind into pace. The new ERG easy pace took me from 60w back to 220w over the 10 seconds, but in a gentle way that I didn’t notice. The cadence was freeform with the wattage increase, something that I find is absent from other trainers on the market.
Lasting impressions
After many miles on the Wahoo KICKR V6 smart trainer, I can say it’s an improvement on an already excellent design. It still needs to go through a proper couple of months of indoor training, but if it’s anything like the V5, I’m sure it will respond accordingly.
The $1,299 price is on the higher end for a smart trainer, considering more pricing around $500-$1000 right now. In my opinion, what separates the Wahoo KICKR is the amount of relentless riding and hammering that the design can take. I’ll be excited to report back on the KICKR V6 after months of hard Zwifting.
Price and Avaiblbily — Wahoo KICKR V6 and KICKR BIke
The new KICKR Smart Trainer and KICKR BIKE are now available for $1,299.99 and $3,999.99, respectively. For more information on both products, visit www.wahoofitness.com.
