This week at Eurobike, Garmin released the Tacx Alpine, a gradient simulator for indoor cyclists similar in general function to the Wahoo KICKR Climb and Elite Rizer. It does, however, have some unique features which I’ll explain below.
You can see it in action in this short hype video, but I think this “look inside” video from Garmin is much more interesting:
Tacx Alpine Specifications
- Gradient Simulation Range: 25% to -10%
- Connectivity: ANT+ connectivity, BLUETOOTH® wireless technology
- Accuracy: 0.1% incline
- Gradient control: automatic or manual (via button on Alpine or in app)
- Axle Compatibility: front fork adapters included for quick release (QR for size 9×100) and Thru-Axle 12×100, Thru-Axle 15×100, Thru-Axle 15×110
- Included NEO 2T retrofit kit includes rotatable end caps for quick release (130mm/135mm X 5mm) and thru axle end caps (142mm/148mm X 12mm)
- Footprint: 18.7″ x 12.4″ (475 x 316 mm)
- Height: 29.6″ (753 mm)
- Weight: 24 lbs (10.9 kg)
Trainer Compatibility
The Tacx Alpine works exclusively with Garmin’s two flagship trainers: the Tacx NEO 2T and Tacx NEO 3M.
Older Tacx trainers are not compatible because they do not allow the rear axle to rotate.
Comparing Climb Simulators
How does the Tacx Alpine compare to the other two climb simulators on the market, the Wahoo KICKR Climb and Elite Rizer?
First, it has a higher maximum gradient (25%) than the other two (20%). This shouldn’t matter much to most Zwifters, though, since there are very few road sections above 20% in Zwift, and most Zwifters aren’t riding at 100% Trainer Difficulty anyway.
The Alpine has, arguably, better app integration as well, with the ability to easily control it via the Tacx app and also set a minimum or maximum gradient to keep your frame safe.
The Alpine has fore/aft movement and Zwift-compatible steering, two features also found on the Elite Rizer but not on the Wahoo KICKR Climb.
The Alpine’s front fork mount is complex and unique, offering the highest degree of movement between the three simulators. Wahoo’s mount effectively locks you in tight, while Elite’s allows for some degree of left-right movement, but no sway. The Tacx Alpine mount allows for both left-right steering movement and sway.
Lastly, and not surprisingly, the Tacx Alpine is the most expensive of the bunch:
- Tacx Alpine: $1099
- Elite Rizer: $999
- Wahoo KICKR Climb: $749
The Tacx Alpine is now available at Garmin.com >
wpDiscuz
