MID RANGE SHOWDOWN: KICKR CORE vs ELITE DIRETO X vs TACX FLUX 2

[@franciscopinto730]

After 3 broken Tacx Flux ( 2 years ), choose the direto X, the 18% is a game changer when climbing the alp. Very happy so far.

[@leonbarnes6428]

Max gradient of the alpe is only 12%! 🤔

[@willcar7958]

@@leonbarnes6428 pretty sure it hits 14%

[@dh7314]

Still enjoying it?

[@stephenbetley9596]

Multi-channel bluetooth and cadence in the latest firmware for kickr18 / Kickr core is a real plus. No issues on running TrainerRoad and Zwift at the same time. Spot on for doing workouts and clocking up XP! ;)

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

The multi Bluetooth support update is definitely not getting enough credit.

[@oldtwinsna8347]

Went with the Kickr Core. So far no issue at all. Unit does output a weak ANT+ signal so having an active USB cable so the dongle can be placed next to the unit body is a must-do to prevent drop outs.

[@jamesst.patrick5631]

Thanks for the insight! I’ve been looking into getting one of these soon and confused about which model I should go with

[@garethnorris3669]

Direto x is spot on. Great trainer

[@Ditypo]

Finally, the video I've been searching for!! (though I was actually looking for the elite suito rather than the drivo)

[@Robert-mn8gc]

Just ordered a TACX NEO 2T with the New Plates 2 give me some movement. 4me the Best Indoor Trainer Available Hands Down .

[@Ni1zz]

Thank you for your " review". Absolutly didnt help to chose. Where are the shortcomings? breakdowns?

[@graffigdesign8977]

I’d love to buy the direto x, however, from what I see on KZbin etc, there appears a lot less information/tutorials and guidance from Elite - also concerned about customer support, returns etc

[@andreapeew]

Having had a problem with my Direto XR, I can confirm first hand their customer service was great. They took the matter in their hands within a day from me sending a ticket, helped me go through the diagnostics and offered me an exchange. I could not recommend them more based on my experience. The trainer also served me immensely well for almost 2 years, with over 5000 km cycled on it!

[@NinoSpinner]

Vorrei acquistare uno di questi 3 E vorrei comandarlo da Garmin Explore 2 per fare degli allenamenti salendo e scendendo i watt o la pendenza Quale di questi farebbe al caso mio? Grazie

[@joaoalvesdasilva151]

Great review but i miss a peace of information that i found important. This top slopes usually are measured for 75 kg set (bike plus ciclist). I am 82 so we are talking about 90 kg. With my old tacx i-flow Tacx claimed 7% but over 4.1% the resistance stays the same and speed decrease. I am kind of afraid that with this Turbo trainers i have the same problem around 9%. All reviews never focus this and i am pretty sure that i am not the only over 80 kg that like to suffer in climbs over 10%. Where can i get this info? Thanks

[@TalesfromtheGreenway]

I've the same issue with the kinetic, it slows picture frame rate down in the steep grades usually after about 7% it basically feels spinning an easy gear up a steep hill. I asked them about it and described it, they said that's how it's supposed to work! Lol so basically they are totally full of it. That's a major deficiency when you're trying to build that power and strength for steep climbing.

[@mrbob92679]

Sir, thanks you for the great comparison. Buying my first smart trainer and decided that direct drive was a better choice. Not concerned about noise or getting a cassette sense I run Campy. Been driving myself crazy trying to figure out which one. Not a high power rider but like riding the hills. Used to live in Southern California and now live flat Houston and a not so friendly bike city. I also I like that your comment that the Kickr is better on the low watts and its made with metal. Also the blue tooth setup seems to better with the Core. I don't think I will notice the difference in a couple of percent of grade. Been off my bike for about 5 years now. Going to go with the Kickr Core!

[@mozpassion8996]

Hi there, do you have a review on Elite Swito?

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

Didn’t review the Suito for whatever reason but it’s a good choice for a midrange trainer. Would definitely recommend it.

[@kellersprinter863]

Good comparison and also exactly meets my assessment for these three trainers and thus also recommendation to my customers. Only - the DiretoX is cheaper to get in Europe or Germany. Two more things: a comparison regarding vendor support is still a very important dimension in such a comparison. A second point: how can I extend my "Pain Cave" with accessories? Here the Wahoo Kickr Core clearly wins, which can be supplemented with the Kickr Climb.

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

Good points! Generally always expect that you might want to return a trainer back for some kind of defect.

[@DanielaAngulo]

I have been having problems with Direto XR, there is a rumbling noise. I contacted the company, they sent me a video to follow. Then I spent a time and money to do the fix they suggested and it didn't work. I have read other people have the same problem, I think it is just low quality bearings. :( very disappointing

[@andremblanco]

KICKR CORE or ELITE DIRETO XR-T? Which one would you choose?

[@londonerr7430]

I wonder if the issues with Elite X mentioned in the video was fixed on the new Elite XR model. Anyone?

[@lereveure]

Wish I knew about the Direto Belt issue.. mine just broke after 16 months of use. Now not available in their store. Hopefully will get a replacement soon..Seems to be a known issue as their Facebook group is flooded with ppl having the same issue.

[@kevina7828]

Excellent video, very informative and right to the point

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

Glad you found the video helpful 👍🏼

[@PedroPrego]

After having the kickr 2018 with all the flywheel problems, I've switched to the neo 2 just to have it under report.watts by around 10%. Now I'll try to get a refund and move to the direto x. The savings would allow me to get a powermeter. Let's see how tacx. Customer service responds.

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

Did you try replacing the Neo2? I know some units had bad calibration at the factory and Tacx were replacing them.

[@PedroPrego]

@@SmartBikeTrainers that's good to know. My neo went to Holland for a recalibration. It came the same. I will ask for a replacement. But honestly, I'm just an average guy cycling for slightly more than a year. The neo has more capabilities than what my legs can extract. The direto x would be more than enough and the bonus of having a powermeter for the road would be unbeatable.

[@PedroPrego]

@@cricanwa I compared to favero duo and quarq powermeter. And the quarq with a different neo which read equal. And even tacx asked to collect the equipment for recalibration.

[@kapadyakegaytv3244]

hello, what about the callibrate? i dont know what that is mean??? i want to buy direto x also !!! thanks in advance...

[@davidgreene9302]

Hi All, I want to purchase either the Core or the Flux 2. I’ve watched the excellent video and read all your comments. Yes, seems to be negatives with all the trainers.....Have there been any updates to the Flux 2? I live in Israel and dealer support for Tacx is far better than the Core. Any comments or suggestions would be appreciated as my purchase preference is the Flux 2. Thank You!!

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

If you have better dealer support for Tacx, then I would go with a Tacx trainer.

[@JBuchmann]

I've been going back and forth between Kickr Core and others in their price range for days. Nearly went with the Direto XR, but there's just something I don't like about the plastic housing. Most others are similar in that respect. After lots of agony I finally settled with the Kickr Core, partly because it's nearly as good as it's more expensive sibling (for $300 less) and I love the industrial metal build. I hope I didn't fall for the 'branding/hype' though. Hope I made the right decision.

[@xyzxyz7947]

How's your experience been with it in the year

[@JBuchmann]

@@xyzxyz7947 I actually went with the regular Kickr instead of the cheaper Core. Love it so far, no regrets!

[@xyzxyz7947]

@@JBuchmann oh that's great. I'm in India and due to import duties etc, it's way higher priced in India. So out of my budget. I'll go with the core i reckon

[@greyhound1982]

@@xyzxyz7947 did you bought kickr core . Am also contemplating the same

[@dinozunic]

So I purchased the Direto X, I'm having major issues with power fluctuations in Zwift and / or my Wahoo ELEMNT. This is happening specifically in ERG mode whether I'm using a workout from Zwift or a workout imported from Training Peaks. Thanks in advance!

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

It’s normal for power to fluctuate. That’s how powermeter works. This might explain it: www.smartbiketrainers.com/myth-smooth-power-lines-3490

[@Crawer101]

Use the small ring up front. Smooths things out.

[@leanneosborne3413]

Hi, can I Bluetooth connect the tacx with my garmin edge and swift at the same time ? Many thanks

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

Yes you can. The flux will connect to Garmin via Ant+ and you should be able to connect to your pc or whatever device you use for Zwift.

[@leanneosborne3413]

Thanks, I was concerned you couldn’t connect both at same time as only 1 Bluetooth connection

[@njm3211]

I'm researching smart trainers but from so many comments around KZbin it seems every single smart trainer regardless of price point seems to have performance or reliability problems. Maybe the technology and quality control isn't there yet?

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

Some had issues initially but like every product, you gonna hear more from people with problems than happy customers. Always make sure you order from a reputable place in case you need to return or exchange it.

[@antoniosolano5023]

norman you are not lying LOL! i have been searching for a smart trainer and it seems like every time i come across one i like everyone and i do mean everyone whos bought one has had an issue yet the product continues to sell. maybe the previous comment is right the disappointed and angry are always louder than the satisfied.

[@DarrenX9]

That's my reaction too... I'm looking at fancy direct drive smart trainers but the online reviews seem pretty alarming... "overpriced piece of junk" seems like a common phrase for all the brands. That said, they can't *all* be lemons or these companies would not be in business for long!

[@Bramopdebeeck]

Witch one do I need to choise? I can choose between Flux 2 vs Direto XR vs Core? Thx!

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

I would go with the Core or Direto XR

[@eduardoleal7980]

Hi ! If you have to choose between the flux 2 and kcker core considering that you only have the bike a trek madone 4,5 (no tools, extra parts or adapters) which one would you choose ? I have equal thoughts on both !

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

I would go with the Core

[@morningtidefilms]

I have a road bike and a 2017 Salsa Fargo (drop handlebar mtb with boost in the rear for plus size tires). Can either of these trainers work with my mtb?

[@bengt_axle]

Is it not a Kickr (and not core) that is shown in the sound test? Is the sound the same as the Kickr Core?

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

Yes, that was a kickr sound not the core but they are just as loud. The Core is pretty quiet.

[@JBDazen]

I was so happy that there was a Dutch company in the market for direct trainers (being a Dutchman myself), but I'm afraid their Flux model is just not good enough. The first one was noisy and the second one has a very strong rubber smell. If I had known that I'd have bought a Wahoo or Direto :-(

[@SumantUsisnotbatman]

I had the option to buy between flux and the core. The Kickr Core went out of stock :/ Should I go for the flux now or wait for Core to come back in stock?

[@Sara-df8xp]

I don't think there are a huge difference between the kicker core and the flux. The accuracy + and - are the same.

[@robdavies4294]

Great video thanks!

[@cjtathome]

Hi , my original 2018 Flux needs to go back. I have the option of Flux S or paying for a Flux 2 - I use it lightly. Is it worth paying extra ?

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

The flux 2 would be my pick. It has a slightly better flywheel and better feel overall.

[@IsmaelDiazIAGoupeFinancier]

Hello there ! I've got my self the Tacx Vortex Smart but for more that I try I always get stuck on the hills as soon it gets at 5% or more.. I've been trying to to calibrate it but still nothing...any help please

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

What app do you use? What do you mean by get stuck on the hills? Does the trainer stop broadcasting power or get stuck at the same resistance?

[@IsmaelDiazIAGoupeFinancier]

​@@SmartBikeTrainers I use Zwift, and what happens as soon I hit a 5% incline hills it'S that no matter which resistance I am in ... the watt and speed do not increase at all .. actually it decrease and it gets really slow. I did calibrate my Tacx many time ... but I am still getting that issue. That's what I am also looking forward to get the Net 2T, but before I get that one I wanted to know if there's anything I can do or if anyone has that issue too. Thanks again for all the info !

[@davidegirardi935]

Actually I’m using a Tacx Booster trainer. Is it relevant realism feeling difference between the one I’ve got and these ones? What is the best one under this point of view between the three you’ve presented? And what is, in your opinion, the absolute best one about realism of feeling? Thank you

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

Out of the three here, the Core has the best road feel.

[@alessiozanon2179]

Will u do a Neo2T vs Kickr 18 vs Drivo video? Or I've already lost it?

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

Working on it 👍

[@moe729]

Hello all, I am a MTB rider and want to buy my first smarttrainer. Is there a special recommendation for MTB? I think about TACX Flux 2, Kicker Core, Direto XR-T. I hope u can help me

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

Depends on your bike configurations but these trainers should be compatible with MTB bikes. You will need to check the specs to make sure it fits.

[@moe729]

@@SmartBikeTrainers thx for your quick answer... all 3 would fit for my MTB. I will use zwift with em, so if there is not a big difference, the price will decide. 🙂

[@marianoespana7595]

Hey, in my country Elite dealer support is trash. I'm a 16-year-old triathlete and I'm debating whether I should buy the Wahoo Kickr Core or the Tacx Flux 2 Smart. I often do my training sessions on Zwift and I'm searching for the most accurate information when it comes to speed, cadence, and power. What smart trainer would you recommend?

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

The flux 2 still has some accuracy issues that haven’t been resolved. I would go with the KICKR Core

[@arlokkkk]

what about the KK R1? it has the rock and roll side to side and it cost $150 less. Please help.

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

The R1 is an ok trainer. However, it’s louder than most other options and still has issues with power measurement. Other than that, the R1 is ok

[@arlokkkk]

@@SmartBikeTrainers thanks!

[@andrecoelho4056]

Have you tested the FUEGO 1.0?

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

No, I did not.

[@zulzakaria8318]

I'm about to get a Kickr Core. I only have a Bluetooth receiver, will it be able to transmit the power? Or I need ant+ for this?

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

It works very well over Bluetooth. No need to do ant+.

[@zulzakaria8318]

@@SmartBikeTrainers Thanks!!

[@zulzakaria8318]

@@SmartBikeTrainers anyway, with the newest software updates, cadence is possible to be measured as well. Is this true?

[@RixtronixLAB]

Nice video, thanks :) how do you reckon Tacx flux 2, have you tried it 39-23 with 12% gradient 4K?

[@siddharthsaxena8863]

What would be your choice between the directo xr and kickr core???

[@MatthiasHermann]

What was your choice? From all that I read and saw, they are quite similar. Core is a bit louder, but smoother in ERG mode.

[@gebbeng]

In future I am going to upgrade to a direct drive trainer from my current dumb wheel on trainer. 1. Why no Elite Suito? Is it in different price category? 2. Since all three has different flywheel weight, is the difference noticeable in between this three in ERG mode? 3. I would like to know is it good to have heavier flywheel in smart trainer or does the one in Direto good enough?

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

Suito is $100 cheaper and less specs but a good one as well. 2) As for flywheel, yes, like I mentioned , the flywheel gives you a bigger range for power. You have to keep The Direto and Flux at a low gear to get a full range of power where the Core doesn’t have that limitation. Basically you can select a small of bigger gear with the core and it shouldn’t have issues hitting low watts. 3) For most applications, the Direto is very good.

[@bartekkosowski9761]

Hello, I wanted to ask if Direto X needs some additional calibration other than this which is done via Mytrainer APP ? I saw some videos on the internet where people are adjusting also belt strech using some screws in the trainer, but there’s no such tutorial in the manual or your website, can anyone help me ? Regards, BK

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

Not really. The calibration you did in the Mytrainer app is all you need to do.

[@Sorogaru]

Interesting video. Thank You! I'm ordered Direto X to Russia. Hope it will be work without issues. )

[@EditioCastigata]

Is it in any way special, i. e. localized? Considering the state of roads in Russia. 😉

[@mickgray10]

Would I see a massive difference coming from a tacx vortex to a direto X or should I make the jump and get a dirivo 1

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

Yes, it will be a decent upgrade. Personally, I would go with the Direto X. I didn’t find the Drivo to be significantly better than the Direto

[@mickgray10]

@@SmartBikeTrainers thank you that's good to know as they are both about the same price in the UK at the moment

[@eduardoleal7980]

Hi does the kicker core works fine over carpet floor ?

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

Depends on how thick the carpet it. Usually the more stable the surface is, the better your experience. You might experience a little rocking on thick carpet.

[@cyclewise6926]

Great video, thank you. I have a question regrading the Direto, which you mentioned briefly but no one seems to talk about, the thing you mention when doing over/under intervals, that is something that I would want to use the trainer for, would the lack of transitioning quickly to the low power be a deal breaker for you on the Direto? also not reviewed here but how would that compare to the H2?

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

I don’t think you will have any issues with the over/under with the Direto. As for your second question, the H2 is a much more powerful trainer but can be noisy. But unless you are getting a really good deal on the H2, I would consider the H3 instead or H1. You might find a better deal on the H1 and it’s the same as the H2.

[@cyclewise6926]

@@SmartBikeTrainers Thank you for the reply, would the Direto X be better then the H2?, if they are around the same price?.

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

@@cyclewise6926 There are pros and cons to both. But the Direto X is a much more quiet trainer compare to the H2 if that matters to you. The H2 can be loud.

[@cyclewise6926]

@@SmartBikeTrainers Thank you.

[@Sara-df8xp]

Hey man am interested with the flux s but am also kina scared because of the accuracy issues will I notice any difference????

[@SmartBikeTrainers]

Tacx/Garmin has been releasing updates to the trainer to fix the accuracy issues but I didn’t get to retest it with the new updates unfortunately.

[@Sara-df8xp]

@@SmartBikeTrainers so if I buy one in 2021 will I still be in risk of any accuracy issues or other problems? Or all the problems are fixed?

[@JFRSANTOS1]

ty

[@NapeWa]

Kicker core is the best!

[@kapadyakegaytv3244]

Calibration?

[@Tattersail]

I keep understanding "Dorito" and now i'm hungry.

[@UnforeseenTruth]

Kickr Core is the WINNER!

[@Sokratesso]

I had Direto and I probably won't go back to Elite. I bought Wahoo today.

[@GoonieGooGoo910]

What was wrong?

[@Sokratesso]

@@GoonieGooGoo910 the longer I used it, the power measurement became less and less accurate

[@GoonieGooGoo910]

Tomasz P I have this same problem with multiple trainers

[@kamils7075]

Tomek, wahoo lepszy od Dirteto XR ? Jakie jest Twoje zdanie ?. Niech się chłopaki pomęczą z tłumaczeniem :)

[@Sokratesso]

@@kamils7075 Tak, mam zdecydowanie lepsze doświadczenia z Wahoo. Ogólnie jestem zawiedziony jakością Elite i już na pewno nie wrócę do tej firmy. Z Kickr nie mam żadnych problemów - świetny sprzęt.