Elite has announced the Drivo, its first entry into the high-end direct drive smart trainer market. This market currently includes the Wahoo Kickr, Tacx Neo, and soon to be released Cyclops Hammer. The low end of the market also includes the upcoming Tacx Flux.
Here are the key features of the new Drivo:
- Accurate power measurement: Elite claims accuracy within 1% thanks to an integrated optical torque system power meter which measures power at 24 points within each pedal stroke. A note about calibration: Drivos are tested and calibrated before shipping. Users will only need to perform an occasional software-based recalibration to maintain accuracy.
- High wattage: magnetic resistance unit is capable of 2000 watts of resistance, simulating a 24% slope.
- 6kg internal flywheel: provides for an accurate road feel.
- Quiet: Elite claims you will only hear your chain.
- Bike compatibility: works with 130 and 135 quick release rear ends, as well as 142 x 12 thru-axles. Comes with a 9/10/11 speed compatible freehub, Campy users will require adapter.
- Folds down for easy transport and storage.
- Suggested retail price of £1099.99
Of course, the Drivo supports ANT+ and Bluetooth, so it can play nicely with third party apps and tools such as Zwift.
My Thoughts on the Drivo
The specs are impressive, meeting or exceeding other trainers in this market space. Focusing on accurate power measurement is good, and I hope to see accuracy continue to improve for all smart trainers (especially wheel-on trainers which are the most susceptible to inaccurate measurement.) I’m not impressed with the looks, but for me those are secondary to the features and functionality.
I’m happy to see Elite enter this market, as I believe direct-drive is where the indoor industry is heading due to its power accuracy, reliability and more realistic ride feel. More competition within this space can only be a good thing for us consumers!
