Wahoo Releases KICKR v6 and KICKR MOVE Firmware Update: Virtual Shifting + Race Mode Over BLE

Wahoo just released firmware updates for the KICKR v6 and KICKR MOVE, bringing two new Zwift-specific features to their flagship smart trainers: virtual shifting and race mode over Bluetooth!

Not sure which version KICKR you have? The KICKR v6 has a WiFi status light instead of an ANT+ light. For more, read Differences Between Wahoo KICKR Versions.

Virtual Shifting

With virtual shifting, your chain doesn’t move between different rear cassette cogs when you shift. Instead, when you click to shift using your Zwift Click or Play Controllers, the resistance on your trainer changes so it feels like you’ve changed cogs.

This is how smart bikes like the Wahoo KICKR Bike, Tacx Neo Bike, and Stages SB20 have worked for years (although they use their own shifters, not Zwift’s). Today’s update adds virtual shifting to the KICKR v6 and KICKR MOVE, bringing the list of smart trainers supporting Zwift virtual shifting to four:

1. Zwift Hub
2. KICKR Core
3. KICKR v6
4. KICKR Move

You don’t need the Zwift Cog on your trainer to enjoy virtual shifting. In fact, we would argue that virtual shifting is smoother and quieter with a standard cassette! All you need is a Zwift Click or Play Controllers and your updated KICKR trainer on Zwift.

Keep in mind that you won’t get virtual shifting capabilities if you pair your KICKR via ANT+. It must be paired via Bluetooth directly on your device, via the Companion app, or via your local network.

Race Mode on Bluetooth

Race Mode sends power data to Zwift 10x per second (10Hz), instead of the default of once per second (1Hz). This increased responsiveness can be advantageous in races.

Before today’s firmware update, Race Mode was only available if you connected your KICKR via WiFi or the Direct Connect adapter. Now, as long as you’re connected via Bluetooth, Race Mode will be available.

Updating KICKR Firmware

Installing new firmware is easy using the Wahoo app (available for iOS and Android). Just add your KICKR to your list of sensors if you haven’t already, then click it for details. Tap “Update Firmware” and follow the instructions:

What About Older KICKR Trainers?

Wahoo has said they’ll be releasing virtual shifting for KICKR v4 and v5, but we haven’t seen any hard release dates yet. Stay tuned!

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