Live Science Verdict
The Wahoo KICKR Bike V2 is a great grooming peter for cycling partisan serious about elevating their exercise performance — but for those who just require to promote their cardio fitness or lose weight in the comfort of their home , this slick - look political machine may be an expensive overkill .
radical - realistic ride feel
side changes
The Wahoo KICKR Bike (V2) can be customized with the pedals of your choice.
Highly customizable tantrum , shifting and pitch
Feature - packed exercise apps
Max weight unit limit of 250 lb ( 113 kg )
The Wahoo KICKR Bike (V2) allows you to adjust saddle height, frame height, stack, reach, and setback.
No smartphone or tablet holder
More expensive than other recitation bikes
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A small LED screen is located on the right-hand side underneath the handlebar.
The Wahoo KICKR bike is not a distinctive physical exercise bike by any means . From its unequalled purpose and advanced customization features to a truly whopping price tag , it go above and beyond what you would unremarkably see in an exercise bike . But does the Wahoo KICKR cycle deliver a market place - beating execution , too ?
It does appear so . This slick machine may be one of thebest drill bikesmoney can buy , present that it features incline variety , customizable train and other features design to give out an ultra - realistic ride experience . True , the Wahoo KICKR bicycle does not make out with a immense touch screen like almost all premium exercise motorcar these days , but its wide compatibility with fitness apps allows you to access endless immersive rides and physical fitness classes on devices of your choice . The KICKR Bike is also compatible with Wahoo accessories , such as the KICKR Headwind sports fan that cools you down during workouts , have in mind you may make it a part of a fully functional workout station .
However , it costs $ 3,999.99 , making it one of the most expensive indoor cycle on the market . So is the flagship Wahoo wheel deserving such a steep investiture ? To retrieve out , we take the Wahoo KICKR wheel for a spin ( pun mean ) , assessing its purpose , durability , features and simplicity of use . Read on for our take on this iconic physical exercise bicycle .
The Wahoo KICKR Bike (V2) features a handy bottle holder.
Wahoo KICKR BIKE V2 review
Wahoo KICKR Bike V2: Set up and usability
The Wahoo KICKR Bike is relatively easy to put together . However , it is a heavy and bulky opus of kit , so the assembly would ideally involve two people . Also , the promotion does not admit any pedals , script shaft or bike grease , so ensure you have those on deal when unboxing the machine .
The Wahoo KICKR Bike fare with a elaborate and easy - to - understand manual of arms , as well as a handy tutorial video on the Wahoo website . However , some beginner may miss the proficient knowledge needed for a flawless set - up . If you have never pick off around a even outdoor bicycle , it may take you a while to get the KICKR up and running . But if you are a more experienced cyclist , you will likely enjoy the familiarity of cast it all together .
First , you involve to foregather the stabiliser leg to the lower frame and ensure that the bike is leveled and unfaltering . Then , you may seize the handlebar , inclose the seatpost and plug away both shifter cords into the bottom of the LED display screen . Next , impound the pedals of your selection to the meth arms ― you will need a spanner , some grime and pedal washers include in the promotional material ― then plug your KICKR bike into the power adapter . finally , download the Wahoo app to end the frame-up .
There are several options to customise your bike in the Wahoo app , admit an option to upload a photo of your bicycle to let the app find fault the best setting for you . We eff the scene on our outside bicycle so we opted for the onetime - fashioned manual accommodation , but using an algorithm to customize your slice of equipment is a truly impressive feature article . The Wahoo app is a handy opus of software , yet ― it allows you to control the cycle and store your workout information , and it integrate all Wahoo accessories into one functioning unit .
Wahoo KICKR Bike V2: Design and display
close together attribute : 48 - in XTC 30 - in x 37 - in
weightiness : 93 lbs ( 42 kg )
User height range : 5 to 6’4 feet ( 1.52 to 1.93 m )
Max drug user weight : 250 lb ( 113 kg )
Drive type : Belt
Resistance : Electromagnetic and enhanced motor
score ambit : -15 % to +20 %
Display : small light-emitting diode screen door
warrantee : 1 year
Compatibility : Wahoo and third - political party apps
Other features : crapulence holder
Looks - wise , the Wahoo KICKR Bike does not resemble a distinctive exercise cycle ― just like an outdoor bike , it is less podgy , more refined in embodiment , and it does take quite a big chunk of the floor quad . You will not be capable to keep it in a cupboard ( unless its attribute are big than 48 - in hug drug 30 - in x 37 - in ) , so ensure you have enough room to store this beast . The KICKR Bike does have a solidification of wheels , but the unmixed weight of this machine ― a goodish 93 lb , no less ― makes it hard to move around . If this is a job for you then we advise you to keep the bike in one designated position that is convenient to live with in the way or , if budget permit , invest in a more portable auto .
We were impressed by the customization features of the Wahoo KICKR bicycle . you could adjust it across five points ― saddleback height , physical body height , stack , reach and setback ― so it fits your consistence just correct . However , we found that adjusting the bike requires some strength and manual dexterity ( and good circumstances to you if you happen to have long nails ) . The levers are close and knavish to unlock , and at time we were worried that we would snap them if we applied too much force . We also found it dodgy to keep the saddle at the veracious angle when adjusting the butt stature .
The resistor , grade changes and brake are controlled by buttons on the handlebar , while a small LED screen locate on the right - hired hand side underneath displays what gear you are in , your current grade pct , whether the bike is lock in ( if so , external package is unable to control it ) and connection position to indicate if it is paired with another gimmick . The control felt intuitive and responsive , and we care that the screen did not obscure the view .
We did , however , detect the seat quite uncomfortable . It felt too narrow and potent , and it did lack the cushioning often view in other premium exercising bikes . Moreover , the capacity of the Wahoo KICKR Bike is set to 250 lbs ( 113 kg ) , so it is not suitable for heavier someone .
Wahoo KICKR Bike V2: Features
The Wahoo KICKR Bike offers full-bodied connectivity to apps and third - party devices thanks to a 2.4 GHz Wi - Fi connection and up to three Bluetooth connections . We had no problems linking the bike to our mobile phone and laptop , and see no lags in data transference between equipment .
There are plenty of apps that are compatible with the Wahoo KICKR bicycle , so allow ’s focus on the ones directly related to the brand : the Wahoo app , and the Wahoo SYSTM app .
The independent Wahoo app , used to coiffe up , customize and control the bike , offers three workout modes . The Level mode is kindred to riding on a wind trainer , meaning the faster you go , the harder it gets . In the ERG mode , you set your desire office output , and the simple machine will automatically line up the resistance to maintain it regardless of how fast you pedal point . Whereas , in the SIM mode , the KICKR cycle will model the ride ground on your desired mount . We liked the versatility of alternative — it is not something you lean to occur across in an exercise cycle . The Wahoo app also stores workout information , making it a useful putz for tracking execution . And , importantly , it is loose of complaint .
The Wahoo X and its offspring Wahoo SYSTM , are offered on a subscription basis , but they issue forth with a devoid test menses . These apps have been curated by passionate cycling professionals — and it shows . They comprise hundreds of cycling workouts , ranging from simple interval sessions to pre - recorded fittingness classes and rides on location where you cruise through picturesque place . These apps also offer up plenty of mobility and strength training workouts , often with hint on how to boost performance on the cycle and zip up post - exercise recovery . Although design with bicycler in mind , the workout can still provide valuable advice to others . There is only one caveat : the cannonade of beep and whistle that foretell the rootage and end of each workout set can become quite boring after a while , and there is no option to flip it off . you could turn the sound off entirely , but this means you may miss some of the input from the exercise instructions .
In gain , the Wahoo SYSTM app offers dozens of running play , swim and yoga classes , as well as the Systm Mental Training Programme : A series of motivational classes designed to boost your mental resilience during competitions and difficult rides . The app also features challenge , seaworthiness tests and cycling documentaries , and it allows you to give chase your progress and docket specific physical exertion .
All in all , the Wahoo KICKR bike and tie in apps offer a ton of worthful message to budding cyclists and jock likewise , and we liked how full-strength the apps look , too .
Wahoo KICKR Bike V2: Performance
The Wahoo KICKR Bike does what it promises . It delivers an improbably realistic ride spirit , while seamlessly connecting to third - company devices , such as fluid phones and laptop computer .
We liked that the KICKR Bike bear like a real outdoor bike , down to the characteristic ‘ thump ’ strait heard between gear shifts . Adjustments to underground and incline were flying and effective , with each gear and level share bringing a real difference to the intensity and overall feel of our workouts . The machine felt relatively sturdy and remained stable at in high spirits velocity . Whether we did an combat-ready recovery drive or a heart - pumping sprint , we find that the KICKR Bike served its purpose well .
We also liked that it was relatively quiet . The Wahoo KICKR Bike is equipped with a knock-down motor , but even when kicked into labored natural process it does not cross the doorstep of a gentle hum . If you lean to train at odd times of the day and Nox , this bike is unlikely to wake up anyone around you .
However , given how integral the apps are to the KICKR Bike experience , you ca n’t facilitate but notice the lack of a smartphone or tablet holder . Wahoo does offer a desk stand to go with the cycle , but not everyone has the space or budget for this minimal brain dysfunction - on . True , any mount sticking from a handlebar would diminish the bare-assed feeling of the KICKR Bike , but not have anything at all does makes it more difficult to take full reward of what Wahoo has to offer .
Wahoo KICKR Bike V2: What the users say
The Wahoo KICKR Bike is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars on theWahoowebsite , with 69 % of users give it a full five whizz . confirming reviews praise this exercise bike for its sturdy build , connectivity , customise feature of speech and incline changes . As one user commented , “ The motorcycle is built like a cooler . ”
Negative reviews often cite its sky - gamey price and tough lever . As one user said , “ It‘s really severe to not get them [ lever ] to slip . It‘s annoying to then have to make the bicycle seat and handlebar be all straight on the bike . Lining up orotund pipe when you are pushing with all your might to fold the spry - release lever is quite voiceless . ” Some users also disagree on the sturdiness and stability of the Wahoo KICKR bike .
Should you buy the Wahoo KICKR Bike V2?
✅ If you are looking for an employment bike meticulously designed to elevate your cycling functioning ( and you do not take care splosh out some serious cash while doing so ) , the Wahoo KICKR bike is a great selection . This beastly machine takes up quite some infinite , but its naturalistic ride smell , customizability and compatibility are hard to match .
❌ However , if you are not a cycling partizan , or if you are see for a more indoor - style workout experience , the Wahoo KICKR Bike may be an overkill , both in terms of cost and functionality .
If the Wahoo KICKR Bike V2 isn’t for you
With its sturdy build , stylish looks , and top - rated app content , thePeloton bikemakes for a good alternative to the Wahoo KICKR Bike . It may lack its high customizability , but the flagship Peloton machine offer an as engaging cycling experience at a more pocketbook - well-disposed price .
TheWattbike Atommay be another desirable alternative . It offers a naturalistic drive feel , challenge workouts , and a free app . This exercise bike is also much chintzy than the KICKR bike .
Wahoo KICKR Bike V2: How we tested
We test the Wahoo KICKR Bike for over a month , looking at its innovation , durability , ease of use , feature film and value for money . We put the bike through a range of physical exercise , include gentle combat-ready recovery ride and high - chroma sprints , wreak through all paraphernalia and be given changes . We also assessed its connectivity with third - party devices , explore compatible apps , and gave our finding of fact on the overall functionality of the Wahoo KICKR Bike .
