Wahoo has a new version of their ever-popular KICKR indoor smart trainer. The 5th version adds improved accuracy, autocalibration, and new AXIS feet to provide a more natural pedaling experience.
The previous version KICKR was already at +/- 2% accuracy, which is pretty standard in the industry. The new version 5 brings that down to 1%. It might not sound like much, but as virtual racing becomes more popular, teams and riders are looking for the most accurate products available to give them any edge they can get. Even from a training perspective, top teams like Team Ineos and BORA-Hansgrohe rely on the KICKR for warming up and home training.
Part of the improved accuracy comes from a new autocalibration feature that means no more spin downs. This means that you can get riding faster and is one less thing you need to worry about when it comes to analyzing your data.
To me though, the biggest update is the new AXIS feet. The updated foot design allows the KICKR v5 to rock side to side 5 degrees in each direction, which is a more natural feel when pedaling. When compared to rocker/motion plates like the Saris MP1, that’s only 1 degree less. Granted, the MP1 also moves front and back, but the new KICKR won’t take up over 5′ of space when not in use and cost you an additional $1,200.
“With key updates that improve any indoor ride, our newest KICKR will deliver an elevated experience for all Wahooligans,” said Product Manager Tyler Harris. “Without any need to calibrate, and improved accuracy, riders can be more confident than ever in power numbers, and with the new AXIS Feet providing subtle side-to-side motion, ride feel has never been more realistic.”
Even with the updates, the version 5 KICKR is sticking to the current $1,199.99 price and is available now. You can still pair it with other Wahoo products in the home trainer line-up, though there is no mention of how the rocking motion of the AXIS feet will work with the KICKR Climb.
Based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Scott joined Bike World News as the Cyclocross Editor in 2012 before taking over as Tech Editor in 2016. He has also worked as a photographer for various pro teams and shoot races along the east coast of the US, including the 2012 US MTB National Championships, 2013 UCI Cyclocross World Championships, and 2016 UCI Road World Championships. Scott has a passion for performance and technology, with 35 years of riding and mechanic experience. He also enjoys soccer, running, teaching group fitness classes, and is the founder of Lancaster Beard Company.
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