Wahoo KICKR Bike: Hands-on Details // First Ride Impressions

Full Post: dcra.in/KICKRBIKE
Here's all the details of the new Wahoo KICKR Bike with built-in CLIMB functionality. The bike includes support for simulating gradients up to 20% and downhill at 15%, plus it's got a new electromagnetic design that's much more similiar to that of the Tacx NEO series. The shifters can simulate SRAM, Shimano, or Campagnolo, along with braking and steering functionalites that can be enabled in apps like Zwift.
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[@Dcrainmaker]

Hey folks - thanks for watching! Check out the full post here - dcra.in/KICKRBIKE - and expect a complete in-depth review soon!

[@chidding]

Please slow down your intro wording man. "heey folks... rayfromdcrainmakerdotcomhere"

[@zeekryder7735]

Can this bike steer for new Zwift feature mountain bike course?

[@geoffgoldplum1231]

I'll wait for the aero model!

[@hanandy7311]

lol

[@joelfr023]

With all this new tech I will always riding! 80 years old.... no problem with this bike and Zwift.

[@wb2608]

After all of the issues with my 2018 Kickr's (yes plural because of replacements) I wouldn't even consider something more complicated like this. My Tacx Neo that replaced my Kickr and Climb has been bombproof to date. Always appreciate the quality of your reviews though, DCR. Keept it up!

[@777triathlete]

I ordered one today. I’m totally jazzed now!

[@Hov1688]

How do u like it so far?

[@777triathlete]

@@Hov1688 Love it. I had to have the first one replaced due to a computer error, but Wahoo made it relatively easy.

[@crissignori7482]

I bought one and have had it for a month and I'm looking to return it. My main beef is the creaking and clicking coming from the frame and the fact that the heel of my right shoe knocks against the "chain guard". My shoe size is 44 (10 1/2) and the crankarm length is set at 172.5. (It is impossible for me to use 175.) The bike works well using ZWIFT and the automatic gradient changes are pretty cool but it doesn't reflect good value for the money spent in my opinion. The Wahoo KICKR seems to be the main focus for the company which of course is exactly what one would expect given current trends and its price point.

[@jasonreynolds1715]

The gear set up function and process looks absolutely killer. Fabulous

[@JanKowalski-pe9lo]

Ye... But its not better to buy Kickr and normal bike? You get every functions except retarded climbing mode.

[@rikkiola]

Props for Campagnolo pronunciation (pssst - tell your Aussie friend 😝🐐)

[@StanBlair]

I'm still using a Kickr mark 1, this is what I've been waiting for. If the only way I can fit in 4-5 sessions a week is by training indoors, you might as well do it in style. Won't be able to upgrade the road bike any time soon though!

[@Totalavulsion]

So buy a cheaper bike and a new Kickr and you’ll still have money to upgrade your best bike

[@BryanBalak]

Nice review. I'm sure there's an audience out there for this, but for $3500, I'd rather just buy a new middle level bike and put it on my existing Kickr.

[@mikb103]

Sounds near silent (great!); what about vibration for those of us that live in old apartment buildings?? Thanks for the early look.

[@kylecouture1917]

How is the sound compared the gen 1/2 trainers? The trainers are pretty loud.

[@paulcrow]

More than anything, it demonstrates the confidence in the inside trainer market and that’s got to be good news as the software like Zwift and Sufferfest can only get better too as the market grows. I wonder how long it will be before you can buy a Wahoo Pod that comes with air con, sound proofing, 180 degree curved screen and smart lighting systems.

[@pedrogoncalves1979]

Teo question. 1. When use the Zwift automatic the wheel measure the power that we are puting on the wheel? 2. When you make a rute on zwift the system automatic make heavy the wheel when you arrive to uphill? Thanks. Nice video. Pedro

[@matthiasmuller182]

Thanks for the good Video! I`m 1,96m and i need a Saddle high of 85,5cm. For my size: Would you get the Wahoo KICKE Bike ore the Stages Bike SB20? Thanks.

[@zoubtube]

great job with the preview. they did a good job with the bike. simple and to the point. price is way to high but my guess is it will come down right after the first batch of early adopters.. looking forward to your comparison review.

[@JanKowalski-pe9lo]

Assuming they dont fcuked up like with 18 Kickr and its issues xD.

[@suennoajchannel6259]

I'm thinking of buying the wahoo bike or wahoo climb and core. What do you recommend? The kickr bike has many problems? And for training, which is better? I will train about 2 hours a day

[@matthewjohnson7350]

Wahoo makes great stuff, but imho this price point is really high for what you are getting. $2500 would be a lot more reasonable to many consumers. At $3500 I would expect a lot more wow factor tech, like maybe multiple memory settings for sizing multiple users(like a high end drivers seat), and maybe a nice high end display with integrated fans(eliminate the need for a pc or a tv for Zwifting) For now Im sticking with my Tacx Neo.

[@dimebag5884]

I’m amazed the adjusters aren’t motorised. For that price the manual adjustment looks very cheap.

[@fgabrieltomas]

5 min in the video and Wow i love this bike! (Caveat I haven't heard the price yet!). The adjustabilty, the gearing possibilities (i could test out different cassettes on different climbs for tue most efficient for me) are the biggest turn ons for me. The climbing is ok, the motor on downhills makes it realistic.. The biggest concern would be long-term durability for the cost. Would be nice The neo doesn't do anything for me, i was hoping the atom but vaporware... ..ok heard the price in the end. 2500 would be a winner, maybe 2k without the climbing feature, 3k is that limit most will dare not cross but 3.5k really narrows the market. I'd check that it flexed alot on that bottom pivot during sprinting. Resistance to rust?

[@vdVeenProductions]

Hai Ray. Love to watch your videos. Do you thing the kickr bike is still worth it? Or do you think a new version is coming? :) Thnx

[@hrpzwift945]

Yes having the gear display down there is bad, normally I have a towel over the handlebars (guess most have) this means that you cannot see the display at all.

[@driemaalsmedes1974]

5:02 I see you're a man of the culture aswell!

[@Finx5008]

Looking at this, being a profuse sweater, i'm concerned about the location of those ports under the steering. That area will get drenched in sweat.

[@Sir_Shawman]

HEY RAINMAKER, HOWS THIS BIKE HOLDING UP AFTER ALL THE USE, IS IT STILL WORTH CONSIDERING IN 2023???

[@bryanllewis]

Seems like it flexed a lot when he did his short "sprint." I wonder how well it would handle an actual serious sprint.

[@remomattei]

does it hold power? basically if I set power at 200w will it hold it? Thanks

[@apackagedriver4536]

great review DC :) curious what cycling shoes you are using there? And, would you personally choose this KICKr over the the competitor StagesBike SB20 or are you worried like others say about the longevity and durability, thx for the video.

[@DevinWiles]

My question is around use for multiple users. My wife and I will split the use of the bike evenly, I'm a dedicated cyclist using Zwift and TrainerRoad she'll be using more for spin classes. We're far off in sizing so adjustments will need to be done for weight, and size regularly. TACX, Wahoo or Stages?

[@lifeafterlon]

Does the trash can stand come included for the price?

[@Dcrainmaker]

No, that's an added accessory: The Wahoo KICKR CAN

[@NathanBudd]

What are those wires hanging from the handlebars? Are they for shifting? Can't help but feel they should either be wireless like eTap or at least internally routed for the money.

[@Dcrainmaker]

For the shifting. The wired aspect allows expandability via the aux ports (such as to TT/tri bars). But cleanliness wise it needs to be a bit better.

[@bantcliff]

Apparently you can swap out handlebars to dial your position and feel in so needs allow for shifters to be removed and reset on different bars.

[@Erin8844]

looks really nice and great functionality - will I buy it? no, price point is way to rich for my blood

[@JanKowalski-pe9lo]

However doesn`t look too durable. I wish Wahoo would sort their Kickr issues before trying to convince people that they can manage something bigger and more complicated.

[@sandiegojoey1]

Look forward to the comparison video.....

[@Maritime007]

Any thoughts on adding aerobars to simulate a tri bike? Looks like you could add clipons but you wouldn't have the bar end shifters.

[@GenXCombat]

Wish you would have said $3,500 in the beginning. Could've saved me 10 minutes!

[@treat666]

Thanks! Only wasted 75 seconds on this.

[@HeatherSpoonheim]

@@cuy50 Yeah, I got my first fitness bike for under $600 - but then had to get a helmet, bottle cages/bottles, locks...spare tube, inflation kit, patch kit, tire levers, damn $80 multi-tool...had to put that all in a saddle bag...put on some fenders, back pannier rack, got some back panniers to go on that rack, oh yeah, top tube bag...then I got some clipless peddles so I had to get shoes and cleats for those...then I picked up a thule rooftop bike carrier (thank god I already had the thule roof rack for my xc skis)...and most recently I picked up my first Garmin device (fitness/GPS/heart monitor wrist watch) to which I'll be adding Garmin speed and cadence sensors when I pick up my next bike (topstone 105 alloy) - eventually hoping to get some power meter pedals on there. All that and I live in Canada where I can only ride about 5 to 6 months of the year. Could have just dumped $3500 into this trainer and rode year round - although I do love the feel/sound of the wind when riding.

[@minervali631]

@@HeatherSpoonheim when I started cycling two and half years ago, it was just a $2000 carbon bike. Now I've spent about 6000 CAD in total for cycling. Clipless pedal, shoes, winter jerseys, power meter, everything costs a fortune. If one wants to go to sportive abroad or become somewhat competitive, that would be a whole new level of expense.

[@TMAN882]

Everything cost - this or a healthclub membership so pick your battles. I will take the convenience and great apps to interface with.

[@lornaj6042]

Lucky! It costs us over $6000 here in NZ! I really want this but its so dang expensive

[@whaleshark2625]

Any plans to review the KICKR Bike V2? I wish they had added folding legs to make it a bit smaller in terms of footprint...

[@Dcrainmaker]

Yup, should be out in the next day or two.

[@whaleshark2625]

@@Dcrainmaker awesome - thank you! I'd also love to know if you think we'll see a Wattbike update any time soon - with the disappointing new Tacx showing I am hoping others will up their game...

[@whaleshark2625]

@@Dcrainmaker I was hoping this would be a Thanksgiving surprise :)

[@Dcrainmaker]

Or…not. Sigh. Broke bike.

[@whaleshark2625]

@@Dcrainmaker ugh. Sorry to hear. Luckily I got the V2 as an accidental upgrade so I’m less worried about FOMO. Now I'm more interested to hear if you’re seeing any accuracy or other issues with it! Mine is a bit odd in that it fails to put out anything more than ~100W in everything up to small ring (1) and 5th gear on the "cassette" in Zwift. Not sure if that's normal or not.

[@stephenbetley9596]

Watched yours and GPLama's reviews, Interesting concept, and a step up, More than that though, are we seeing the resistance unit for the next Kickr (v5)? A more neo-like electromagnetic unit with braking and downhill momentum, and integrated cadence. Certainly feels they're going in that direction.

[@Dcrainmaker]

Yeah, everyone is moving that direction.

[@graemebarnard4713]

Thx for the video Ray. I have Kickr Bike and I’m experiencing a “knocking sound” from the flywheel. Could it be the same problem as with the Kickr 2018? Is there also a key fix option? I have lodged a ticket and waiting for response from local distributors here in SA. Thx

[@lindsaycripps1597]

Ray just for curiosity at this price point does this offer road feel on say Zwift like the Neo? As it looks to have belt drive.

[@troycollett8540]

Will be interesting to see how it performs in terms of accuracy etc

[@richardmathers7238]

Iv heard the neo bike is still delayed in being released is this true ?

[@carlosquintanilla3700]

Man, you rule.

[@firemanhey]

Just seen the bike on Instragram at euro bike. Pretty cool!!!!!!

[@dskordo]

Hi DC. Thanks for posting this. I did have a Kickr+climb and when manually adjusting gradient when riding in Zwift (non erg training), it added resistance as expected. I just bought a K-Bike. Changing the gradient via the buttons on the hoods doesn't appear to add resistance as expected (and like the Kickr climb - you demoed this in one of your vids). Was that your experience too?

[@oanaterteleac9617]

Hi, any possibility to manually adjust resistance? In case I do not wish to ride using an app, just ride and manage cadence and resistance on my own training parameters. Also, if I manually configure incline 10%, will the bike incline automatically or will just simulate the new resistance? and one more, if I may:) how adjustable is the handlebar for the vertical, how much can it be raised?

[@terrywalker7127]

Good information

[@GoonieGooGoo910]

How long does the spindown take? I noticed the cranks were spinning for a while, after you got off. That's not an issue, just curious.

[@psnSupergrobi10]

Where can I see my power if I dont use Zwift? Is it shown in the Wahoo App or where can I see it?

[@Dcrainmaker]

Yup, there's a Wahoo app available (free). Or any number of other cycling apps.

[@kurastyles]

Hi, does this have a rubber drivebelt? I can't find any information relating to this. I would like to know, please if it does and if so, when does it require replacing, is it available to the public (readily available) and is it the same as same as the Kickr toothed belt? Thank you.

[@ravynx]

Glad I didn't wait to purchase a used direct-drive Wahoo trainer this month; figured it'd have to be something over-the-top coming out or a small reliability change to their existing equipment. Looks neat but $3500 is way out of my budget for a trainer.

[@LarryinBrookline]

A couple disagreements from a new Kickr Bike owner. Go to 8:50 in the video and look at how much the head tube bobs up and down. This occurs near constantly during my shorter harder rides, seated. I was able to "fix" it with a pole underneath the head tube (I don't use the the tilt). And for my first, and only, test of the tilt, I chose a new Rouvy route that I didn't realize contained a 19% slope. I was eating the handlebars, unable to pull hard on them in a totally unnatural position, and the front of the bike was literally rising off the floor. In a word: terrible. Nevertheless, with my pole fix, the bike is pretty fantastic and remains my first choice.

[@bittiapina]

This looks like such a dream. Just out of curiosity do they list the minimum height it's fitted for? Because I'm a shortie (161cm) and I have a hard time finding roadbikes that fit well, so I was wondering how small can they make this?

[@phxrsx]

I was wondering the same thing.

[@vex-nh]

5 ft (152 cm) from their specs page.

[@cyclingmaven]

Hows the downslope on the drops though...

[@Dcrainmaker]

Down!!! It's definitely a bit more noticeable I think because of the fact that the saddle tilts too.

[@dan110024]

Build and ride quality seem to be super good but I would find it hard to justify the cost. You could pick up a normal Kickr and also a pretty rad extra bike (gravel or cx or something you dont have) to have mounted to it all the time which you could then take out and use when you feel like it. Struggling to see a true benefit of these units.

[@richardmathers7238]

Hi Do you know if the neobike has the new higher torque motor that’s in the new neo t2

[@monkeyspacepilot007]

I hope they do a flat/riser bar version for mountain bikers.

[@Dennis4523]

Matthew Hawksworth I think you can already do that but you need to do some reworking with some of the shifting

[@BryanBalak]

Or a tri version for triathletes.

[@niki0k582]

The saddle stem bar paddles ... are changeable

[@LaMereACaniche]

3.5k USD, massive pass. Very nice video, though!

[@robjbrad]

Is there an option to hardwire to PC?

[@ajregester]

You keep mentioning the Tacx bike...did it ever see the light of day? Last I checked it was around a year past it's "release date" with no communication from Tacx on what was going on.

[@Dcrainmaker]

Tacx communicated quite a bit this week that’s they’re starting shipping this week.

[@ajregester]

@@Dcrainmaker Ah yes, I had paused the video to comment and just got to where you mention it towards the end.

[@beardlesshobo108]

Holy shitz of a pricetag

[@SherpaDave]

I literally hit the like button when you told me to

[@VanIyke]

I have a magnetic spin bike. My problem arises after pairing my Wahoo sensors with Zwift. Not sure if you use Zwift, but let me ask anyways: During the Zwift setup, when you get to the page where they ask to "select your trainer," there is no option for the metal plated flywheel bikes like mine. What does one do/select then?

[@kmac720]

You mentioned the wattbike ATOM, but it's still not available in the U.S., (nor is the TACX as it's still on manufacturing delay.) So the Wahoo could potentially be first to market here state side. If I'm wrong and you can get the wattbike anywhere here, let me know people!

[@Dcrainmaker]

Check my post on the front page of the site. ;) Tacx also starts shipping this week too.

[@andrewwylie9259]

I wonder why the cranks continue to move during free-wheeling? Belt driven? And braking...its is wireless or is there a cable routed to it, and if so, then easily fixed/replaced?

[@8584zender]

LOL I was wondering that too. On a real bike this would be a sticky freehub.

[@nicoschmi9955]

1. How many Bluetooth channels does the bike need to connect to Apple TV? 2. Why are the cables outside the handlebar? Please integrate that. 3. It looks like a bit of a swing during the sprint.

[@Dcrainmaker]

1) Just one - it's supports the new multiperipheral 2) I agree 3) The ground was uneven - we tried to fix some bricks and such under the mat, but it's imperfect.

[@2000triathlete]

Interesting, thanks DC.

[@BobBroeking]

Great review...

[@Steve-cc8zg]

Hey Ray, have you ever heard of the kickr bike just dying? I mean, no led lights...nothing. And I have double checked the brick, and it's fine. I have contacted wahoo, but was curious if you ever heard of that happening. Thanks, man.

[@Vam1500]

Do any of these bikes have wheels or stow away vertically for those of us with limited space?

[@graphics_dev5918]

You should look at the Kickr

[@thejasonhearne]

"It's pretty cool, or whatnot." ha ha. You should make that into a shirt.

[@8584zender]

Do they have an aero version?

[@jeremysweeten2792]

In short: yes. It’s ugly. It’s not necessary if you already own a real bike. It’s superfluous. I want one.

[@EricJohnson-vi6ri]

Same... moving to the top of my list of potential snap purchases

[@HECTORBIDO]

Waooo. Fascinated

[@troycollett8540]

So you can select the virtual cassette for the route you are riding

[@Dcrainmaker]

Yup!

[@troycollett8540]

Nice

[@franzinigiuseppe4969]

Is this bike better than tacx bike?

[@timbruner4628]

Any chance Wahoo's new resistance unit has the capability to do "road feel" like the Tacx Neo line?

[@Dcrainmaker]

Technically yes, up to Wahoo to implement.

[@timbruner4628]

@@Dcrainmaker That seems like a worthwhile feature for Wahoo to develop at this premium price point. It would give them that all-in-one combo of road surface feel along with angle adjustment from the Climb and better justify the higher cost. Especially since it makes sense for the next new (2020?) Kickr to adopt this same resistance unit.

[@calandraco2888]

Nordictrack S22I STUDIO CYCLE has similar features, they should jump into the smart trainer/zwift train

[@trieb]

Is it possible to set up the bike with aero bars?

[@nealyurick9997]

yes

[@TalesfromtheGreenway]

With that price point I'd expect a lifetime warranty. I think at some point they will figure out how to incorporate a rocking motion when out of the saddle. At that time and with proper warranty I'd consider pulling the trigger. Thx for the video.

[@dan110024]

I'm surprised they didn't promote the flex as rocking motion tbh

[@ighfirlee]

And you didnt show any climbing on Zwift... It doesnt look stable when you sprint and I hope the climb hydraulics is durable. Dont wanna want it to break while climbing

[@JanKowalski-pe9lo]

Well 1yr warranty says something ha?

[@ighfirlee]

1yr only? ridiculous for a premium price.

[@JanKowalski-pe9lo]

"Limited Warranty Wahoo Fitness warrants products to be free from defects in material and workmanship, under normal use, for one year from the date of original purchase." :).

[@JamesHuxford]

Could you set up with TT set up?

[@Dcrainmaker]

Yup, coming later this year.

[@icecreamforever]

How upgradable is it?

[@jamesvaughan7274]

At $3,500 they've missed the market - with something that looks like a proof of concept.

[@jameswestgate416]

Filmed outside Shane’s garage?

[@Dcrainmaker]

Close...

[@jasonreynolds1715]

I’m glad it’s not his garage, cos I spent the video wondering which was uglier - the bike or the garage colour 😂

[@bambi005]

The single pillar holding up the top part of the bike scares me. At 200-220lb, I would be scared to stand up and go for speed.

[@Try_n_2Tri]

"Buttery".... say no more. $$$. I'll stick with my Kickr core and invest in the climb maybe. But nice review as always.

[@JanKowalski-pe9lo]

Climb is so shitty man. All my friends (me included) try to sold that thing. Its just overhyped and thats all.

[@Try_n_2Tri]

Jan Kowalski good to know thanks. I’ve heard various reviews on it. It is pricey so I want to make the right decision.

[@zikling]

The product is good, but I hope Wahoo reconsiders the price, 3,500$ is very expensive!

[@JanKowalski-pe9lo]

I wish Wahoo would sort their Kickr and Core issues before trying to convince people that they can manage something bigger and more complicated.

[@BernardoBeraldi]

Only road bike?

[@therusheffect7784]

So wahoo or tacx???

[@tummyfullfigger9291]

Wow!

[@Brantastic07]

Finance option??

[@PoetWithPace]

Another piece of tech that is way outside of many peoples budget?

[@barkeater7867]

steering on zwift?

[@Dcrainmaker]

It does indeed support it now.

[@davidwilkinson3172]

For that price I can't believe it dosn't move forward and backwards and side to side, like a rocker plate? Surely they missed a trick?

[@pixacervino]

Do you know oreka training?

[@Dcrainmaker]

Yup, chatting with them tomorrow.

[@micno2076]

Please Wahoo...take my money! 💶💶💶

[@Lolimaster]

All this sprinting position is quite inneficient unless you are on a race going explode mode for a few sec. Gains are minimal in rpm vs watts produced from the stress on the pedals are 3-4x more. RPM dictates the speed you get for a given ratio.

[@thetheflyinghawaiian]

Buy $2000 bike and wahoo kickr + climb. OR this. Also, only has one bottle mount.

[@AC-wq7fo]

...Ikea meatballs can be done in the Mikeawave.

[@WonderSausage]

Wow, it's a wet noodle out of the saddle. As a sprinter I don't think I could use this. I might even break it.