Eurobike 2022 has proven fruitful ground for indoor training enthusiasts, with several launches covering both software and hardware.
Here we round up the latest products to make it to the show, including a pro race simulation platform, a new trainer based on robotics, an ANT+ fan, plus a new indoor smart bike making its way over to the UK and beyond.
MyWhoosh makes a splash
One of the largest stands at Eurobike came from UAE-based online training and racing platform MyWhoosh.
The stand incorporated a number of smart trainers to try out the software, plus an immersive virtual ‘cave’ that gave a 270-degree insight into how immersive indoor training could one day become.
The app is currently free to use, features training sessions and programmes put together by Team UAE coaches, and offers the ability for e-sports competitors to compete for prize money.
Right now, the app is limited to two virtual worlds based on UAE roads, but we’re told that it will be expanded to incorporate more real-world WorldTour races.
Elite keeping us cool
Prior to Eurobike, Elite launched the new Justo smart trainer, and at the show it paired this with a brand new Bluetooth and ANT+ fan – the Aria.
It can simulate changing wind conditions in response to speed, power, heart rate and body temperature, while Elite says that its responses can be customised to offer more or less wind simulation according to the rider’s preference.
The Aria can also simulate changes in wind direction, offers wind speed simulation in excess of 30mph (48kph), and features an odour-reducing filter system.
Back to the Justo and Elite's latest smart trainer builds upon the success of the Direto XR.
Key updates include improved power accuracy (now +/- 1 per cent) and ‘Flex Fleet’, said to simulate the side-to-side motion of riding a bike.
It's also claimed to be smaller (33 per cent narrower than the Direto XR) and quieter, while new features include auto-calibration and a 'standalone mode', whereby the trainer can be used without a connection to an app or power.
Truekinetix uses robotics
When does a trainer become truly intelligent? Not just yet, but Dutch brand Truekinetix stood out from the crowd at Eurobike by using "robotics" to power its new TrueTrainer, having initially introduced the tech in its TrueBike smart bike.
In short, Truekinetix says the robotics enable the trainer to simulate different gear ratios from the ones you have fitted on the bike.
For example, you could ride a bike equipped with a compact chainset and 11-28t cassette, but accurately simulate 53/39-tooth chainrings with an 11-32t cassette.
Visibly, the TrueTrainer looks like a regular direct-drive smart trainer but, under the skin, Truekinetix has integrated its "TrueForce" technology, which is said to offer the most natural pedal stroke currently available.
We had a quick go on the stand and can confirm the sensations feel more realistic than your average direct-drive trainer, though this was only a short pedal at a trade show.
Power accuracy is claimed to be accurate to +/- 0.5 per cent.
The TrueTrainer is available in three versions: a base model, and ‘Shift’ and ‘Max’ versions that offer the full scope of the TrueTrainer’s capabilities.
The two upscale models feature a USB port and can be connected directly to a monitor/TV via HDMI, with the TrueTrainer software built into the trainer (so you don’t need an intermediary computer to run the software).
Prices start at €1,499 for the base model, and rise to €1,799 and €1,999 respectively.
Zycle Smart Z Bike now coming to UK and beyond
Over at Spanish indoor cycling brand Zycle, the Z Bike is about to become available Europe-wide.
The Z Bike can handle up to 2,000 watts, and is said to offer quiet performance thanks to the frictionless magnetic system used to apply resistance to the 14kg flywheel. Zycle claims that it’s one of the quietest smart bikes on the market today.
Otherwise, Zycle claims +/- three per cent power accuracy, and the Z Bike can connect with the major indoor cycling apps.
The Z bike features adjustability for people ranging from 160cm (5ft 3in) and 195cm (6ft 5in) tall, and comes supplied with combination pedals featuring flat and SPD compatibility.
Race like a pro with VirtuPro
Finally, still in beta, VirtuPro caught our eye with its fledgling platform, which it claims offers the most realistic virtual racing experience.
The platform is set to launch officially in the coming months, and it features a range of interactivity, including live steering, communication with your (virtual) team, plus the ability to ‘look around’ the virtual world as you ride.
VirtuPro says the platform uses an intelligent engine that, with each race, randomises rider and team tactics, so no two races are ever the same.
Also impressive were the on-screen graphics, which to our eye were arguably the most advanced and realistic on show at Eurobike 2022.
VirtuPro is set to launch in autumn 2022, where the full functionality and prices for subscription packages will be unveiled.
