Wahoo has updated its flagship direct-drive smart trainer, the Kickr, and claims it’s now more accurate than ever before and offers an improved ride feel.
Now in its fifth generation, the 2020 Kickr builds upon the previous model’s established form factor but adds an improved claimed power accuracy rating of +/- 1 per cent (+/- 2 per cent on the previous model) and redesigned feet that enable the trainer to tilt slightly for a more natural ride feel.
The price for the new model is unchanged at £999.99 / $1,199 / €1,199.99 / AU$1,799.95.
We’ve been using this latest model for a few weeks now, so once you’ve finished reading this article, don’t forget to check out our full review of the new Wahoo Kickr.
Improved accuracy and auto-calibration
In addition to the previously mentioned improved power meter error margin, Wahoo also claims a new auto-calibration feature removes the need to perform regular spin down calibrations (although the option to do so remains).
Wahoo says it does this by continually monitoring the trainer's internal temperature, speed and resistance. This enables the Kickr to calculate the level of friction in the system and automatically adjust the calibration level of the internal power meter as you’re riding.
Kickr Axis feet
Wahoo claims these new feet, called the Axis feet, enable the trainer to tilt laterally by up to five degrees, giving a more realistic ride feel.
These will also be available to purchase separately to upgrade existing Kickr trainers at an RRP of £64.99 / $79.99 / €79.99.
More of the same
Aside from the new feet and updated power meter accuracy, much of the spec remains unchanged compared to the previous Kickr.
It has a max power of 2,200 watts and can supply enough resistance to simulate gradients of up to 20 per cent.
It ships with a Shimano/SRAM 11-speed freehub and an 11-28-tooth cassette is included in the box. As before, Campagnolo and XDR / XD freehubs are available to purchase separately for £49.99 / $69.99 / 659.99 and £59.99 / $69.99 / €59.99 respectively.
At the time of launch, Shimano Micro Spline freehubs are not available, but Wahoo told us it is monitoring demand for this, suggesting one may be available in the future.
The 7.25kg flywheel is also height adjustable to enable compatibility with 24in, 26in, 27.5in/650b, 650c and 29in/700c wheel sizes.
Device compatibility also remains unchanged. It can communicate with iOS, Mac, Android and Windows devices via Bluetooth, ANT+ and ANT+ FE-C.
As before, the new Kickr can also be used with Wahoo's array of turbo trainer accessories, including the Kickr Climb and Kickr Fan.
