WAHOO KICKR: Basic Maintenance (Gen 1)

[@MarcHamlin]

So my 2014 Kickr wasn't coasting. Took it apart following these directions, cleaned and greased everything, put it back together (man, you weren't kidding- those "doors" are a b!tch) and now my Kickr is running smoothly. It should be said here that I have type 2 diabetes, and I control it with diet and exercise (no meds) so riding is life. Ergo: You saved my life today, Shane. Happy Thanksgiving.

[@MarcHamlin]

Also, I've figured out the issue with the "doors" that can be tricky, when you're trying to get the cassette housing back on: A piece of picture-hanging wire solves the problem. I wrapped it around the "doors" and gave it a good pull. It holds the doors "closed" until you [gently] slide the cassette housing home. Once it's in there, you simply let the wire go slack and unwind. No hassle!

[@TheRaceit]

Hi, i did this service on my Kickr 17 after 20000 km, 600 hours, WOW !! What a difference , sounds and feel like new, YOU made my day, thx a lot.

[@petebarnes1525]

I bought my Wahoo Kickr V6 brand new and at the same time, I also bought a good quality secondhand road bike (with the same specs as my outdoor road bike), which I leave fitted permanently to the Wahoo. It saves a lot of messing about and spares my beautiful outdoor road bike from a lot of wear and tear 😃

[@loudkitday]

Dude!!!!!!! This is exactly what I've been looking for! Far out. No one gives these insights. No joke I was just asking this question of the whole internet and got zero results a week ago. Always a quality post. Thanks.

[@gplama]

Just wait for the advanced maintenance video then.... it'll blow your kit off..... :) Cheers for the comment too. It is good to be able to publish content that isn't out there anywhere.

[@WillCheang]

Love it! Really appreciate it !

[@loudkitday]

Shane Miller for sure! Really like how you have a focal point on specific tasks. Helps when thinking about all this things needed to own a bike and make some decisions. Ride on!!

[@israelcyclingnetworkchanne2138]

Shane Miller - GPLama Its’s really great... but did you really post the advanced maintenance video? We would like to watch it to fix some issues we had with our gen 1.1 kickrs - thanks keep it up!

[@kenmeyer100]

Thanks a lot. My Kickr from 6/2015 is still running perfectly after some 25.000 km, without any maintenance. The only issue I ever had was a loosened belt. But I could easyly fix that.

[@ianthomas3155]

I was having big trouble with dropouts on Zwift, Trainer Road even the Wahoo phone app so figured it was the Kickr rather than anything else. Opened a ticket with Wahoo and while I was waiting for them to get back to me saw a post on FB about a guy who's Kickrs optical sensors didn't like the new decor in his pain cave. Optical sensors? It's got optical sensors? Bit of Google and up comes your wonderful tutorial. Cleaned the sensors and I'm back on the (indoor) road. I owe you a beer if your even in Dubai and Wahoo owe you about a thousand.

[@gplama]

+Ian Thomas Dubai sounds like a good destination! Melbourne winter is cracking me! ☃️

[@koDiacc]

Hey there. Your tip with tightening the nut where the cassette is worked wonders. It was really loose ;)

[@JackRussell021]

Ahh thanks. Mine is acting up - sudden and unexpected power increases during Zwift sessions. Wahoo troubleshooting suggests optical sensor, so I will clean it tomorrow and see if that clears things up.

[@ToddMoses1]

Thank you. This video was very helpful. There was a odd vibration taking place while riding with my KICKR, which seems to be fixed now that I've tightened the loose nut on the cassette. I would not have known this solution without your video.

[@VonMicich]

Thanks for servicing my kickr 😘

[@gplama]

hahah! I didn't clean your sensors though. I think they're pretty good...... and in other news, we own four Kickrs now. :)

[@juddyau]

Public spousal appreciation, she's a keeper Miller ;)

[@brianhillebrand7140]

Another informative video. Glad to see your sub numbers coming up!

[@thesolitarycyclist9005]

Hi Shane, great video mate. I have a bit of a problem with a 1st gen KIckr. I've trawled the internet and no one seems to have the answer but thought you with your vast experience of trainers might have heard of something similar. Basically, I've done all the maintenance and everything looks fine. When I start a ride, 1st 30 mins everything is good. The hub feels buttery smooth and I churn out 250w at about HR 130 bpm. Then, the hub starts to feel slightly sticky, Gradually it gets to the stage where it starts to feel like it's caked in mud, and after 90 mins I can barely keep the cadence going without dropping 2-3 sprockets. HR is now up to 150+ but power is down to 170! Before anyone says anything, I can hold 250W for 2+ hours outside so I haven't blown a gasket! As I said, I've done the maintenance, the hub looks in great shape. The cassette is fine, the shims haven't faced. Done spindowns. Everything you can think of. Needless to say, the wahoo guys can't figure it out! Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated!

[@gplama]

Nothing comes to mind. If Wahoo can't solve that one (and it's their product), that's not a good sign.

[@thesolitarycyclist9005]

@@gplama Thanks Shane. Will give them another go! By the way, what's that business you do with the freehub and what looks like a pair of scissors to get the freehub back on? I just put it back on and clicked it into place but maybe I've missed something!

[@gplama]

@@thesolitarycyclist9005 That's just to push the pawls/teeth in so the freehub slides on. Sometimes it's not required.

[@886014]

Great video Shane, nicely done. Just a note for anyone considering using Loctite to be aware of the different grades available and choose an appropriate strength ie low to medium strength. Some of the high strength formulas eg 263 can lock fasteners very strongly and would make subsequent removal difficult.

[@gplama]

Good tip! "Supermarket Strength" is what I tinker with.... Just a little stronger than Clag. :)

[@toddstiers3814]

best tech manual available for the Gen 1 Kickr...thanks

[@JustinHennessy]

Thanks for that Shane. I have a brand new Kickr (2016) so this was exactly what I was looking for. I am sure there are subtle differences but all good.

[@terrykennedy78]

Thanks Shane.. you just saved me $1200..

[@Bushhooks]

Excellent, not serviced mine yet buts needs to, it makes a high pitch whirling noise as tho bearing is dry... did you push into the bearing there was a bit difficult to make out, cheers

[@dan110024]

Don't get the wahoo drive belt if you need to replace it. Take it to a industrial belt supplier. I think it was around $15 compared to the $90 or whatever it is through a bike shop.

[@gplama]

Good tip! (be sure to hit that sub button too! I appreciate the comments/input on all videos too!)

[@jashan4900]

wow 66! Nice Shane!! mines 141, purchased in July 2013. (Adelaide)

[@gplama]

I just purchased my 4th Kickr.... ANT ID up in the 17,000s!

[@jashan4900]

Holy crap, that's a lot of Kickrs!

[@quantumcreator8888]

Shane Miller

[@andrewbarley6930]

Tightening the 17mm nut (according to Wahoo) should only be finger tight 2nm. Tighter than that shortens the life of the inner shim and/or can damage the bearings on the unit. They don't put a spanner on it. Otherwise good video.

[@rosswelton8835]

Awesome and helpful video thanks Shane

[@sfy8820]

Can you do a maintenance video for the gen 2 Kickr? Or just any added tips that are appropriate for gen 2 users...

[@coreydriscoll]

Hi Shane, thanks for the great videos.... I'm wondering/hoping the advanced video is on coming soon? My kickr has been skipping since I put in a sprint effort and the wahoo site and google searches have been next to useless.

[@gplama]

Is the belt skipping or the chain/cassette?

[@coreydriscoll]

I'm fairly sure its the belt

[@gplama]

Shoot the details over to Wahoo support. There's videos showing how to tighten the belt... but.. if it has stretched then it'll likely break soon anyway. They'll get you sorted.

[@coreydriscoll]

Thanks Shane, I appreciate it. Please keep the awesome videos coming!

[@aliessfahani703]

Hi Shane, was wondering if you had a video on replacing kickr drive belts?

[@gplama]

No. It's something I've chosen not to cover given the issues it can cause if people snap the tension bolt heads.

[@paulo170219]

Helo Miller, I'm from Brazil. Here we don't have the Wahoo Oficial Store. So, we have no one who can do Maintenance. In addition, replacement parts need to be imported. So, it would be very useful if you do a basic maintenance video for the 2018 generation? Can you help us. Thanks for your videos. I watch it all. Regards.

[@witte2702]

Glad to see you continuing. I *think* you might find that 2-3 "value" videos per week, might provide (in the long term) comparable views numbers to daily vlogs. The occasional daily vlog is good too, but it will be interesting to see how the two compare - if you did 3 months of 2-3 "value"/week. Daily vlogging probably grows quicker, but "value"/long-life videos likely have a more sustainable future?

[@gplama]

Cheers. It is a lot quicker to produce videos presenting content rather than trying to be the content that's for sure.

[@bryceburnett1434]

Was wondering if you had any thoughts on whether or not you should use a carbon bike on an indoor trainer. I've heard you should only use aluminum/steel bikes, or if you do use carbon to totally avoid out of the saddle efforts. Just wondering if I should be worried about cracking my frame as I only have access to one bike (carbon) to use.

[@gplama]

+Bryce Burnett No problem with carbon bikes on trainers when used with the right skewer. Very common myth that is asked a lot. See this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/f4TWo5qkaL6sfbM

[@bryceburnett1434]

Thanks! Love your channel.

[@bakeha82]

Looking forward to part 2. My Kickr occasionally makes a slight grinding noise. Any ideas what this could be?

[@gplama]

Freehub? Take a video and shoot it though to Wahoo Support. They're usually pretty good.

[@dan110024]

I'm pretty sure it'd be the inner spacer on the spindle that the freehub slides onto. Mine started doing it. It wears down over a long time and I guess the freehub hits the body of the kickr or something

[@MrJgibo1]

Thanks for the video. When you say do a spin down if you move it.. Are you referring to even if you move it a few feet in the room or when you are transporting it?

[@gplama]

Sorry, both. It is pretty sensitive. Always good to do a regular spindown.

[@MrJgibo1]

Ok thanks, Maybe I'll put a chalk line around it like a dead body so I will know if my friend moves it;)

[@gplama]

hahahahh!

[@ashleycameron7081]

Legend. Just troubleshot a problem for me

[@mikergeorge]

Hey Shane. How often do you recommend servicing and regreasing the freehub on the kickr? Loving the videos. Hard to find good informative data about trainers! Keep it up.

[@gplama]

Every few 1,000kms as a rule of thumb.

[@globehb7645]

Hi GPLama, At 8:16 ... when I tighten the outside NUT (of my Gen 1 KickR) it seizes the Cassette (and I have to let it stay loose) (this caused all issues) So it seizes the cassette when tightened, but releases the Cassette (to spin freely) when the outside nut is a few threads loose? You mentioned the inside shim (or maybe the outside) can shorten (through wear I think), assuming the inside shim is clean ... is it a bearing issue ? I only had the nut finger tight ... but that was too tight. Thanks.

[@gplama]

Sounds like the shim is too short... or the outside one is missing? Not sure mate. Ping Wahoo Support.

[@gearathon]

Excellent video! Thank you very much.

[@edgejewellerydesigns]

Hi Shane I’m still having trouble with blue tooth connection I’d really like to start training again. Do you know if parts ie replacing the motherboard?

[@pauldamian2988]

Hey Shane, did you ever do the video on belt tensioning you mention in your description??? I have a new Kickr (from November) that started skipping under high load recently. I dug online and found how to adjust tension. Mine seemed really loose, I could twist the belt probably 45 degrees! Also, my unit seemed very, very quite. Much more so than all the other videos I have seen. I contacted Wahoo and they sent me a link to a similar tension video but it had NO information on what was the PROPER tension for the belt! Seems like there should be a "setting". Something similar to what I have seen on other belt driven systems which is usually a deflection distance or twist angle specification. Since adjusting the tension my spindown went from roughly 23 seconds down to 16 seconds and the noise(whine) increased, probably 3 times as much.

[@gplama]

No I haven't. There's history here with this topic, with a number of videos going up from Wahoo Kickr owners with very incorrect information about belt tension and adjusting spindown times for no reason. This caused a few headaches for Wahoo Support. For now I'll leave this specific topic for Wahoo. If they ever publish a guide/recommendations/etc I may cover it if I have the time.

[@pauldamian2988]

thanks Shane. I did another belt tension adjustment before riding today which I felt much better with (the resulting tension, not the Zwift ride feel) and was back to being fairly quite. The video I found showed tightening the belt so it had zero deflection AND then giving it another full turn of the adjustment screw. This is way too much, by my estimation. It will be interesting IF I get anything from Wahoo. Thanks again for the help!

[@andyashton3605]

@Shane - I didn't think you needed to do a 'spindown' on the 2018 Wahoo KICKR? I thought it did it for you? Or am I wrong?

[@gplama]

It will require one every few weeks/months. Depends on usage.

[@andyashton3605]

@@gplama Thank you! Maybe this is where I'm going wrong, LOL!

[@nickerless557]

I noticed today the belt on my kickr has silver/grey marks all along it. Haven't noticed it until today so I think it's fairly recent. Is this anything to be worried about? Thanks

[@jack91522]

having used both the kickr and flux, which would you choose at this point? not being able to get support from tacx scares me if it breaks but the flux has a nice flywheel. kickr costs more though

[@gplama]

The Flux was pretty good while it lasted. At this point in time (Jan 6th 2017 10:30am), I'd personally choose the Kickr. This isn't a recommendation of what anyone else should do though. This also may change.

[@jack91522]

thx for the honesty. on paper the flux looks great but not having any prompt tech support is really the problem. I'd stick with the flux and help work through the issues but they dont really provide a channel for that. only thing i can do is send them an email but their auto response was 1-2 wks. maybe I'll opt for the cheaper wahoo snap instead

[@ioannidesalex]

Is there a way to make the 2014 kickr silent like the 2020 model ?

[@gplama]

No. The belt, drive wheel, and internal gears won’t allow for the different belt the more silent Kickrs use.

[@ioannidesalex]

@@gplama thanks for your answer, so the problem of the noise is because the first generation of kickrs is because the use timing belt and all the parts are for timing belts ?

[@gplama]

@@ioannidesalex Yes.

[@BrianMackinnon]

Great video Shane. Does the Neo need the same attention after a certain time or distance check?

[@gplama]

+Brian Mackinnon Yes. I haven't had mine long enough to require it though. Tacx might be able to help in the mean time with what they recommend.

[@BrianMackinnon]

Thanks for the reply. Me too only had mine for about a month. Was just curious as I want the Neo to last as long as my CT !!

[@allancruz4432]

Hi Shane, great videos as usual. Have you had any experience of a burning smell coming from your Kickr gen 1 at any time in the past? Wahoo thinks it is in the belt area but there's nothing there. I reckon it is on the flywheel because I did a spin down after using it for an hour and the recorded temperature from the kickr is 40.4 degrees Celsius - is that a normal temp while using it?

[@gplama]

Nothing I can recall ever being concerned about. They can get pretty hot. There's a lot of energy going into that flywheel/heatsink.

[@allancruz4432]

thanks Shane - we'll see what wahoo say about it. it is not consistent though.

[@richardmccavana2950]

Hey Shane, Ricky hear all the way from Belfast Northern Ireland. Great work you do on the videos and reviews on tech. Keep it up bud!! One question for ya, the Tacx neo or the new Kickr? And why? Cheers Ricky.

[@gplama]

Add Drivo and Hammer to your list. There's four to choose from at the top of the tree now days. As for which I prefer? I own four Kickrs, one Neo, one Drivo, and no Hammers. Each have their own pros and cons. Hopefully my reviews/videos/etc help you choose. It's not as easy as "buy this" when it comes to factors such as noise, price, local warranty etc.

[@richardmccavana2950]

Thanks Shane! Had a look at the Hammer and Drivo....not quite sure about them. Well that tells me something about the Kickr if you have four of them. ;-).

[@gplama]

Yep, that they're a bargain when people sell them 2nd hand! :)

[@orci77]

Shane, Wahoo says that Kickr doesn't support thru axles. I wonder if this is something for the moment or is it designed that it won't work? As I understand the Tacx trainers can be used with bike that have thru axles (disc brakes) with an adapter.

[@gplama]

142x12 adapter from Wahoo works: au.wahoofitness.com/instructions/kickr142/

[@orci77]

Shane Miller won't work for 135x10 thru axle road bikes but from the video there is no real technical reason why they couldn't do it.

[@gplama]

Hit up Wahoo Support for their reasoning/answer on that one. I haven't had to solve that problem yet, hence I'm not across it.

[@TheLadeef]

for some reason my gen 1 has an extra lock not on the drive side. I finally realized this was incorrect and causing misalignment.

[@stevenf4511]

Useful video Shane, thanks! Any suggestions for the KickR Snap?

[@gplama]

I've never owned one, so I'm afraid I have nothing there.

[@richardholloway2169]

Hey Shane, love the videos bro. I have a question in reference too kickr spin down test. I just brought a kickr second hand and I cant get it to finish a spin down, it either aborts straight away or starts it and cant finish even after the trainer has stopped spinning. I followed your guide here and cleaned the optical sensor and black and white strip and checked for scratches etc but for the life of me cant get it to work. I guess im wondering if you have incountered this problem or give me a couple more thinhs to check. Cheers again and keep the hreat content coming.

[@gplama]

Cheers for the feedback Richard. Give this a shot with the Kickr and let me know how it goes: - Open the Wahoo Fitness app (available on the app store) - Go to sensors->add new sensor and select your device - Wait for the device to connect - Tap the device icon in the top left corner 5 times to bring up a list with available firmware versions - Select the firmware version to install (Select 1.5.66. The latest Beta as of today) - Choose 'update now' from the dialog Then try the advanced spindown.

[@richardholloway2169]

Shane Miller Cheers Shane, ill give it a crack and let you know.

[@richardholloway2169]

Shane mate, updated firmware, did advanced spin down and the kickr is like new. Thanks heaps bro

[@WillCheang]

Do you spindown before every ride? Thanks for the video!

[@gplama]

No. One every few weeks, or whenever I've moved the Kickr.

[@barryjap]

bit off topic...what about KICKR SNAP Shane? Should I spindown before every ride? FYI I loosen the grip after every ride and retighten prior rides.

[@gplama]

Maybe.... you'll have to look into Wahoo support / forums. I don't own a SNAP so haven't taken the time to get my head around the best practices etc.

[@uGarbageMan]

Another great informative video, Shane! Maybe you'll remember me from another video, I was asking about the Bushido. I've actually decided to spend a little more and get the Kickr, as I don't want to make any compromises in terms of quality and functions and just get a product that I know works well. Now judging from this video, you don't need a chain whip and cassette tool to put the cassette on your kickr...Is that correct?

[@gplama]

You'll need a whip and cassette tool to change/remove the cassette. I removed the entire freehub in this video.

[@bigredlibra]

What type of grease do you recommend

[@sercheese]

hello Shane, I've just ordered the wahoo combo (core+climb+fan). while installing the new cassette for the first time, should I also grease some parts as you did during your maintenance? or do all parts come pre-greased from the factory?

[@gplama]

Things should be pre-greased new.

[@matthewk3233]

For the gen 1 kickr is it always better (more accurate) to do the advance/factory spindown always instead of the normal? I have the latest firmware. Last Zwift race my watts were 10-15 higher then expected and I had done a factory spindown after my previous ride so I was thinking it was being generous with the watts. Thanks for your videos!

[@gplama]

There's a lot of factors. One spin down every few weeks should suffice with the latest firmware.

[@GetAPlaster]

Hi Shane, quick question do you have any recommendations for maintenance for a Neo? I know it is meant to be a plug and play trainer but was just wondering if you do anything to maintain yours? Thanks!

[@gplama]

I've done nothing to mine yet. When I do, I'll put it on camera and talk people through the process.

[@elidouek5438]

Nice vid! Just curious, what's the ratio between time spent out on the road and time on the trainer?

[@gplama]

Whatever you want it to be. Just ride! :)

[@elidouek5438]

Shane Miller sorry I worded the question poorly... What I meant was what is your personal ratio between the trainer and the road?

[@gplama]

At the moment, more indoors as the weather is terrible here in Melbourne. Maybe 80% indoors? That'll swing rapidly as the sun returns in the next few weeks/months. When training hard it is still around 50/50 due to indoors being so good for specific time trial work.

[@elmerching1572]

Thanks a lot for this video!

[@cececece4865]

Do you know how to fix the circuit board? The wrong voltage was plugged in and it got really hot and did not work afterwards. But nothing on the board looks burned. Thanks

[@gplama]

I doubt this is possible.... one for Wahoo Support.

[@orci77]

Is the Kickr still the trainer to go for for you? You got the Neo but it seems you are using the Kickr much often. Tacx Flux looks interesting to me due to the price point.

[@gplama]

I switch between them both.... I do like the feel of the Kickr flywheel. The Neo comes close, and is the go-to for when I need to keep the noise down.

[@glenpearce8825]

Shane - have you ever had a power issue with KICKR gen 1? At the moment my KICKR goes into lock down mode - very high resistance as soon as power is required Wahoo or Zwift. Could it be the optical sensor?

[@gplama]

Maybe. Kickrs are also like gremlins. They don't like direct sunlight on those sensors.

[@giannisclip8662]

Grazie

[@elidouek5438]

Did you end up making the video about calibration with the special weight?

[@gplama]

No. Two reasons. 1. The app required for it to work is a pain in the arse to get working. 2. Everyone will ask where to get a weight/kit because it's so damn hard to get a hold of... that'll then stir up Wahoo Support with requests. I try to step lightly and not piss people off.. 3. (bonus reason!) If the new firmware for the original Kickr allows model mode vs strain gauge mode, there's no need for this at all.

[@chrischrischris723]

Any suggestions for a cassette looking off balance? When I look down it doesn’t look like it’s spinning perfectly straight.

[@gplama]

If you're using a spacer behind the cassette (10spd on an 11spd freehub), check/replace it.

[@chrischrischris723]

@@gplama negative - I’m using an 11 speed. No spacer.

[@andrewcorden7429]

@@chrischrischris723 any update on this, mine looks the same.

[@chrischrischris723]

@@andrewcorden7429 nah, I think it’s just the way that it is. I sold my v1 and bought a core. Much quieter.

[@KrisBrosnihan]

I have a 10 speed cassette on my KICKR. If I upgrade to an 11 speed bike, do I NEED to upgraded the cassette on the KICKR? Do you have tips for making sure no cable adjustments need to be made when on and off the KICKR? I find that I need to tweak the cables slightly when I transition from the KICKR to the road... Thanks!

[@gplama]

All Kickrs have 11spd freehubs. You'll need to replace the 10spd cassette with an 11spd one. Kickr gear indexing/spacing can be tinkered with using shims or shaving down the locknuts.... if required.

[@rossfripp4503]

Hi, can you confirm that the 2nd (larger) shim gets put back on once the cassette is already in place, or so both shims go on that axle first and then put the cassette back on? I've done this job to mine and put the small shim back on first, then the cassette and then the other shim followed by the 17mm locking nut. Many thanks

[@gplama]

From memory: Shim - Freehub - Shim - locknut. I can't recall which one was larger, I'll assume the first.

[@bakeha82]

So the belt should be replaced as soon as fraying is visible?

[@gplama]

As soon as it starts skipping. You can tension it.. but... if it has stretched / worn then it is end of days for the belt anyway.

[@CrankCyclingChannel]

How often should you calibrate ? I've never done mine in two years. Also which firmware version so you find best?

[@gplama]

Spindown: Every few weeks. Or whenever the unit is moved. Calibration: In theory, never after the factory. The calibration arm and weight are hard to come by! Performed if your Kickr is reading low/high compared to a known good power meter. Firmware: 1.4.47 (latest public release)

[@CrankCyclingChannel]

Ah ok thanks, the only reason I ask is because mine reads about 30/40w less than a quarq and its the same on all 3 I have. I have heard the power does drift with time on these. Thanks for the reply, great video.

[@TheE21ross]

Thanks for this video, I have had my Kickr about 14 months now and have yet to service it. It runs absolutely fine without issue but I will give this a go over the next few days! I'm just worried about messing it up some how! Is it difficult to get the cassette/freehub back on? Why did you use something sharp behind the cassette? Many thanks!

[@gplama]

If it's fine... I'd leave it be. (or have a bike mechanic handy to help out)

[@rossfripp4503]

Thanks for the reply. It makes sense to service it before things go wrong though, as I don't really want any "down time" if possible. I had a look at the screws for the optical sensor and they appear to be rivets, meaning I can't get those out. I did spray some compressed air around the sensor though and the "zebra" area, which should help. Haven't tried the freehub yet but do you not think it's worth doing? I've had it for about 14 months but according to trainer road I've done 12.2 days of training on there!! Many thanks in advance for your further input :)

[@rossfripp4503]

I gave this a shot tonight and all went well, so a big thanks for uploading this video. For the shims etc the grease I used was this stuff www.wiggle.co.uk/finish-line-ceramic-grease-60gtube/ do you think that'll be OK? It's pretty thick. Also did the optical sensor (1.5mm allen key I think I used). Rode it for 5mins after then did a spin down and all seems well! I may just do this every few months as it's so easy to do and it's worth looking after such an expensive piece of kit. Other than this (and the occasional belt and shim replacement, does the kickr need any more basic maintenance work? Thanks a lot!!

[@MaximilianSterlingTv]

Hmm i have trouble getting my cassette off it seems jammed. Any pointed other then levering it off with abit of force?

[@gplama]

Arh... nothing I'd be confident in taking any responsibility for suggesting. Maybe a bike shop can lever it off and accept the damages? :) It should pop off without a lot of force.

[@MaximilianSterlingTv]

Shane Miller I might need to. The freehub comes off easy enough so maybe ill just replace that instead. It was a worn cassette so no huge loss.

[@barefeg]

what is the noise difference between say the kickr and a normal trainer where you use the whole wheel? I had to cancel my zwift sub because of noise complains from the downstair neighbours.

[@gplama]

It's almost impossible to quantify the difference... there's a lot of variables there. Have a look into the Neo if you need as quiet as possible.

[@luketoms6110]

Are you back on YT.

[@gplama]

Almost.... some videos are 360p quality. Still waiting to hear from KZbin as to what happened.

[@robertheard01]

How do you replace the cassette? I couldn't see how that thing in the back of the cassette comes out?

[@gplama]

Same as a standard bike wheel. Chain whip and cassette tool. It's a standard hub configuration.

[@alejandroestela2301]

Hi Shane, my 2017 Kickr started having sticky freehub issues, I contacted support and they replied saying I need to change the 144T pulley wheel (dont know exactly which part that is), but it costs $100 usd + shipping, which seems pretty ridiculous for a 1.5 year simulator. Any ideas if there's a cheaper way to solve this?

[@kwc7391]

Are the shims the same (outer and inner, both ends)? I couldn't tell with the camera behind your hands.

[@gplama]

I can’t recall sorry. This was a while ago. The replacements come with both.

[@timwildschut3101]

@@gplama Where does one get the replacements?

[@gplama]

@@timwildschut3101 Best to ping Wahoo Support.

[@timwildschut3101]

@@gplama They replied to say they can supply one for £12. Here is their diagnosis, in case it's helpful: "The description would point to the inner freehub spacer being damaged. This occurs typically as a result of the 17mm axle nut being over-tightened, or the skewer being over-tightened (which crushes the spacer as a fail-safe)."

[@GetzenBassPlayer]

I have opportunity to use a Computrainer, circa 1995 or so. will one that old work for Zwift?

[@gplama]

People are using Computrainers for Zwift. I'm not sure what model/year. www.zwift.com should be able to help, or raise a support ticket with them if you need more info.

[@GetzenBassPlayer]

Good idea. Thanks.

[@GetzenBassPlayer]

I have another question you might be able to answer concerning the computer. I went to the local box store and had them spec out a computer based on the recommended equipment on the Zwift site. The cost came in at $950.00. Is that the going rate for a mid level gaming machine?

[@gplama]

$950 US/AU/Fijian, plus tax, minus VAT?... There's way too many variables here. Then there's other things like SSD vs HDD, Windows license (which some exclude)... etc...etc. Zwift needs the best graphics card you can afford. Also worth sticking to NVidia as their hardware seems to have the best support (drivers/updates/compatibility).

[@mikergeorge]

How often do you service the freehub?

[@KrisBrosnihan]

Is WD40 ok to use in place of "grease"? I've performed this maintenance routine and want to lube...

[@gplama]

WD40 lube/grease yes.... the standard Wd40 is a degreaser.

[@billdemarais7254]

Should I do this with a Kickr '17?

[@gplama]

Sure.

[@christycornett3507]

Which do you prefer, kickr or neo?

[@topher.m]

When's the 11 speed DA getting installed Shane?

[@gplama]

Good question. I'm not too sure if I'll put it on the 2012 S-Works frame. I'd be nicer to update the frame and stick it all on there.

[@topher.m]

Shane Miller agree. Pete Sagen colourway coming up. You heard it here first.

[@adrian777a]

any idea how to fix a small amount of side-to-side play with the main unit? it's not a big issue but it tends to make the bike be a bit loose side-to-side I tried tightening the bolts on the outside, but doesn't seem to help, neither does increasing the support on the side legs it must be some hidden or internal bolt that needs a bit of tightening

[@gplama]

Here's what you're after. The main pivot bolt needs tightening. www.dropbox.com/s/9s1xpr1m9hmnadt/How%20to%20Video%20-%20Adjusting%20Main%20Pivot%20Tension.mov?dl=0

[@greatlumbuey]

Shane Miller - GPLama Hi Shane, you don't happen to have a refresh for that link regarding the main pivot bolt. My kickr flops around like a duck in a shirt sleeve and haven't had any luck finding a solution yet. Cheers.

[@diegolara8081]

Would this maintenance be same to the new kickr

[@gplama]

Yes, it should be.

[@robertonitrini2082]

Hi! Last weeks I’ve notice a squeaking noise coming from my kicr17, specially when I change gears or increase power (with the erg mode on). Is kind of a grinding noise.... The belt is fine even after 429 hours and 14.000km’s Any tips? I’ve tried to do the maintenance routine you’ve suggested on youtube but wasn’t able to remove the freehub, the screw on this version is shorter than the previous one... Tks

[@gplama]

Remove the cassette and see if you can get to to bolt to remove/service the freehub.

[@robertonitrini2082]

Tks!! Do you have any special tool to do this? Tks again

[@gplama]

@@robertonitrini2082 Not that I recall. Standard wrench and lockring tool(s)

[@robertonitrini2082]

Perfect!!! Service done, running smoothly as new!! Tks mate!

[@Ceyt_1234]

Hi, I lost the bluetooth and ANT+ Signal. Do you have an idea why?

[@gplama]

Contact Wahoo Support

[@prid99]

Would you recommend buying a kickr used?

[@gplama]

+Patrick Riddell Sure. That's the best value smart trainer option at the moment in my opinion.

[@prid99]

Do you find that you have had a lot of issues requiring WAHOO to get involved and replace parts?

[@gplama]

+Patrick Riddell No

[@BIGDO13]

most organized man on earth... even found like decent sticky post-it's for the fuckin' Ant ID..

[@rossfripp4503]

May be having a slight problem with my kickr....about 6 months ago I took the freehub off to give the inside a good clean up as shown here... I cleaned everything up and re-greased it using finish line ceramic grease. Reassembled....fine. About 5 weeks ago I did the same but one of the spacers had a nasty lip on it and got stuck in the cassette, I managed to remove it, and replaced both spacers, greased up again and....fine. But I SWEAR that the unit is seemingly running a little hotter the last few rides (I may be imagining it but I swear I could even smell heat) so last night, took the freehub off again and after just 5 weeks one of the spacers had developed a couple of nasty lips again. I have got 1 more set of spare spacers (courtesy of Wahoo)...I have ordered some more grease from here www.amazon.co.uk/Comma-BG2500G-Performance-Bearing-Grease/dp/B007WR38TY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1485871778&sr=8-2&keywords=comma+grease Which is nice and thick. Shy of asking Wahoo for more, is there anywhere I can buy more spacers from?? I'll take it apart and re-grease it again, use my final set of new spacers and see how I get on. Any thoughts? I've never tightened the belt (unit is about 16 months old, used a lot, but no signs of fraying). Many thanks!

[@gplama]

This is one for Wahoo. I'm not sure on the size/standards of the spacers they use. If they're generic then you might be in luck.

[@rossfripp4503]

Just spoke to Wahoo, they're going to send me some more spacers but apparently the reason is most likely because I did the 17mm lock nut up too tight, which squashes the spacers. Apparently this nut should be done up to 5nm or torque. I have a torque wrench but need an adapter to fit a 17mm bolt on! I've loosened it a little and hopefully that'll help. Thanks for your quick response.

[@pbnz1975]

Great video Shane, love my Kickr and videos like this really help. Can I ask you a quick question, I seem to have an issue with my Kickr, it will track power nicely in Erg mode using Trainer Road for the first 20 or so minutes (mainly warming up), then I will struggle to get it to hold the stated power consistently, it just tends to stay low but jump all over the place. Gets a bit frustrating as I expected to see nice straight lines in erg mode but to no avail. Any advice would be much appreciated.

[@gplama]

That's one for Wahoo support. I'd ensure the firmware is on the latest (1.4.47 I believe at the moment) and ensure you've done a spindown before raising a ticket... as that's what they'll likely recommend before going through the troubleshooting process.

[@pbnz1975]

Thanks Shane, appreciate the quick reply (sorry mine has been slow!). Really love your videos but also understand how much time it takes for you to put them all together!! About to give my Kickr a birthday and see if I can get it to behave.

[@adrian777a]

on mine it would read low but the resistance would obviously be way too high cleaning the optical sensor fixed it the reason is it needs the speed from that sensor to compute power = speed * force so if it reads the speed low it thinks the power is too low and in erg mode will try to crank it way up

[@mikechajecki9827]

Can you put 11speed on the generation one? Thanks.

[@gplama]

Yes

[@mikechajecki9827]

Shane Miller - GPLama thank you

[@mikechajecki9827]

Shane Miller - GPLama I'm debating between the generation 1and the new kicker snap. Any advice? Thank you.

[@gplama]

Entirely your call.

[@kivosanli5273]

Is grease same thing as chain lube?

[@gplama]

No

[@u3962521]

Great vid. My original wahoo kickr has just shit itself. And struggling to get any response or support from wahoo which is a real shame. Was working well until a few weeks ago where all of a sudden it had issues with the resistance vs the power wattage it was showing. Did the tests wahoo suggested which looks like it might be a faulty optical sensor. But they just aren't replying to emails for support now... And no-one is answering their global phone support number anymore. Won't be buying another kickr anytime soon... 1200 dollars for the most expensive turbo trainer on the mkt and it's died and no support from kickr. I am dealing with Chris at Wahoo in the support team who I noticed is in a few videos on the kickr channel... I just wish he would show some courtesy and reply to my emails

[@gplama]

As I've replied in your other post, I can't help much here, I'm not Wahoo. It's also not the most expensive trainer - see my posts on the Neo, and the Technogym trainer (the latter costs x2 that of a Kickr).

[@bacangpanas9187]

can you use TA 12x148?

[@gplama]

Not sure on the Gen 1 2014 model. The newer model Kickrs support Boost. Check Wahoo website for more details.

[@ben20012004]

How do u change it from 10 speed to 11 speed

[@ben20012004]

That's clear. I meant do u have to add or remove shims etc.

[@gplama]

+ben20012004 All Kickrs are an 11spd freehub. Shim is in behind the 10spd cassette.

[@ben20012004]

Thanks Shane

[@gabbechico8471]

how do u performe a spin down?

[@gplama]

Jump over to Wahoo Support website and it’s all there. I’ve also covered it in a number of videos on the Kickr/Snap.

[@gabbechico8471]

Thanks!

[@iangarethreeves]

No chain whip needed?

[@gplama]

To take the cassette alone off, yes. I take the whole freehub off in this video.

[@iangarethreeves]

Doh...will pay more attention next time... Can you do a video of the easiest way to do that on a Kickr/Neo etc ? I always end up with everything in the wrong place, going the wrong way....

[@gplama]

To install and remove cassettes on a smart trainer? It's identical to a standard wheel.

[@briang2981]

Where are you located?

[@gplama]

I'm on the Internet. :) I don't do this kind of servicing if that's what you're after?

[@briang2981]

LOL. I see. I don't know if this is a typical service offered by a bikeshop either. I have a gen2 kickr which is out of warranty. I have some noise, and I'm not sure who to take it to.

[@gplama]

A good bike shop should be able to look at it. Maybe ping Wahoo Support and see if they can recommend anyone nearby.

[@awonderfulway]

if he cut the sock he would double the size of his rag

[@Demon09-_-]

Some of those gates belts seem to come from the factory with what you saw on your wife's belt at least on one side of them

[@a7design]

Thank you for this but your focus on your camera makes it hard to watch : )

[@gplama]

Not much I can do about that on a six year old video.

[@jacla1410]

Hi Shane, any idea if this would solve a wobbling cassette? Since recently i have following issue: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l2KUpKOQoLKSl8U already remounted cassette, and all looks firm.

[@gplama]

Try another cassette. If that's the same, likely the freehub. One for a mechanic to look at in person.

[@richardcooke7909]

BEWARE- Wahoo do not allow “self-service” and refuse to ship spare parts! So if you are thinking of buying one, be careful. It’s a real shame as product is reasonable, but their customer service and business model is very poor.

[@gplama]

Do you have any further information on exactly what model and what part they've refused? And did they offer a return-to-base replacement?

[@richardcooke7909]

Shane Miller - GPLama, bought a Wahoo Kickr v5 secondhand from a gym that was closing. Works perfectly well, but was noisy, so I followed some KZbin video and cleaned it, greasing flywheel spindle and bearings. Whilst in the process, it became obvious that the inner radius of the pulley wheel had been “gouged” from a previous servicing. I managed to use a file and Emery paper to smooth and got it back on. Job complete and it runs really smoothly and no noise, all good so far. I contacted Wahoo do see how I could get a spare pulley wheel, so I could replace in the future. To which I basically got told in several emails, that they do not support secondhand units, do not ship spare parts, even though I’m happy to pay. Also have failed to tell me where I could get it serviced correctly, I am based in Hong Kong. As I said, Kickr is great and loving it, but the constant “computer says No” response from them is rubbish, sounds like they are hoping I buy a new Kickr if this one fails, at nearly AUD2k for a new one, I would expect it to last for years and be fully self-serviceable. Thanks

[@gplama]

@@richardcooke7909 The Kickr 5 (2020) is only a few months old. That's surprising to hear it needed a 2nd service after a previous service. That gym must have had that thing smoking along!

[@richardcooke7909]

Shane Miller - GPLama when I say a second service, maybe it was just how it was delivered from Wahoo, I just assumed they would not have shipped it that way, but maybe they did, who knows?

[@AaronGale85]

1st

[@iangarethreeves]

no chain whip needed?