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    Tacx Magnum smart bike treadmill unveiled

    • News
    • Trainers
    Eric Schlange
    -
    August 30, 2016
    0
    Tacx Magnum smart bike treadmill unveiled

    Tacx Magnum smart bike treadmill unveiled

    Tacx is pushing the boundaries of smart trainers in a big way with the announcement of their Magnum smart bike/run treadmill.

    Ultimate realism?

    According to Tacx, both running and riding on the Magnum are very realistic. The bottom of the Magnum was designed to slightly dent when your foot lands on it, but is stiff as concrete while cycling. A foam core is placed in between two aluminium plates, allowing for a bit of flex when running while remaining stiff for tires.

    And of course, it works with Zwift, as well as other software that works with Bluetooth and/or ANT+.

    How does it work?

    According to Bike Radar:

    The Magnum smart trainer is much cleverer than just a rolling road. As we held onto the side and spun up to speed, the treadmill works with your acceleration and light sensors on the treadmill sides (lit up between blue, green, and red) read your position on the bike.

    If you push too far forward it will gently increase the resistance to put you back in the zone, and if you fall backwards it will decrease to allow you to accelerate — and if you stop suddenly or brake, the Magnum reacts in a split second to prevent you from falling.

    The sensation of the Magnum takes a few spins to get used to, it’s unlike a set of rollers as you have much more freedom to balance and move around on the bike, though once it ‘clicks’ it’s a very impressive tool.

    tacx-magnumSpecifications

    • Incline range: 0-15% (can be adjusted manually or automatically) with simulated inclines up to 20%
    • Speed range: 2,4 – 30km/rh (when riding faster than 30km/hr, the belt will increase the incline so that you can push the needed Watts)
    • Speed adjustment: manual or automatic
    • Weight: 150kg
    • Footprint: 222.5×102.5cm
    • Includes 32″ screen
    • Projected price: ~€7,000

    Availability

    According to Tacx: “The Magnum will be delivered at your door step and installed by a certified team. It is available from November in selected countries: Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.”

    Learn more at magnum.tacx.com >

    Bike Radar first look article >


    Kinetic by Kurt announces smart control trainers

    • Trainers
    Eric Schlange
    -
    August 30, 2016
    0
    Kinetic by Kurt announces smart control trainers

    Kinetic by Kurt announces smart control trainers

    kinetic-smart-control
    Kinetic’s new Smart Control unit

    US-based Kinetic has officially entered the smart trainer market with yesterday’s unveiling of their “Kinetic Smart Control.”

    Available on Kinetic’s highly-regarded Rock and Roll and Road Machine trainer frames, the new resistance unit is a step up from Kinetic’s previous “smart” offerings which offered power measurement but not controllable resistance.

    The resistance unit can also be purchased by itself for installation on an existing Kinetic frame, bringing the connected, power calculating, resistance controlled experience to current Rock and Roll, Road Machine, Magnetic, or Cyclone trainer owners.

    According to Kinetic:

    Each new trainer model features an electronically-controlled Power Unit, a massive flywheel delivering the highest inertia of any smart trainer on the market, ultra-quiet operation, accurate and reproducible power data, and a realistic ride feel. The Smart Control Power Unit is also available separately and is the ideal upgrade for a wide range of existing Kinetic trainers.

    kinetic-rock-smart
    Kinetic Rock and Roll Smart Control

    Specifications

    Interestingly, the new smart control supports Bluetooth only–no ANT+. Kinetic is working with Zwift to make sure the smart control units will work seamlessly once they are rolled out.

    Power accuracy is +/-3%

    Maximum wattage, incline simulation, and flywheel size not available at this time.

    Pricing

    • Rock and Roll – Smart Control: $849 USD
    • Road Machine – Smart Control: $649 USD
    • Smart Control Power Unit: $549 USD
    kinetic-road-smart
    Kinetic Road Machine Smart Control

    Availability

    Kinetic says the trainers will be available late September in the USA, and sometime in October to the rest of the world.


    Zwiftcast Episode 8

    • News
    Simon Schofield
    -
    August 30, 2016
    0
    Zwiftcast Episode 8

    Zwiftcast Episode 8

    Episode 8 of Zwiftcast has been released. Here’s the full episode description:


    Simon, Shane and Nathan discuss the incredibly active smart trainer market, with a raft of new models announced in the past couple of weeks, including an eye-catching offering from Tacx.

    They go on to speculate on what might be the likely effect of an expected launch of Zwift on iPad.

    There’s a feature on Married Zwifting, with a look at how couples balancing jobs and kids can use Zwift to maximise training, sometimes Zwifting together.

    Nathan’s other half, Lindsay and Shane’s partner, Von, make guest appearances – and share some of the secrets of their joint pain caves!

    Australian hero Mat Hayman makes a special appearance on the Zwiftcast to bring us up to date on what’s he’s been doing since that memorable win in Paris Roubaix and to let listeners know how Zwift is fitting into his training plan.

    There’s a feature with ZTR race organiser Christian Wiedemann who reveals the results of a fascinating experiment: He tells the Zwiftcast what happened when he went to tackle a very familiar local climb in real life after spending two years exclusively riding on Zwift.

    Simon, Shane and Nathan tackle the thorny issue of deliberate weight-doping. Is it ever acceptable to change your weight on Zwift? Maybe you want to keep up with buddies on a group ride – can it be right to adjust your weight down a bit to make it possible?


    Zwift coming soon to iPhone & iPad

    • Computers
    • News
    Eric Schlange
    -
    August 29, 2016
    0
    Zwift coming soon to iPhone & iPad

    Zwift coming soon to iPhone & iPad

    UPDATE (9/1/16): you can now sign up to be a Zwift for iOS beta tester.


    This is big, folks.

    Zwift is now in pre-beta testing for iOS devices. The following devices will be supported (a 64bit A7 processor or greater is required):

    • zwift-ios-appiPad Air 1 and 2
    • iPad Pro 9.7″ and 12″
    • iPad mini 2, 3 and 4
    • iPod 6th gen
    • iPhone 5SE
    • iPhone 6/6+/6S/6S+/SE

    Performance notes

    According to Shane Miller performance is silky-smooth, better than his Alienware Alpha desktop computer. Zwift has been touch-enabled for a while now, so you are able to simply the touch the screen to give Ride Ons, change settings, etc. And a simple lightning to HDMI cable will let you view Zwift on your TV while it runs on your iDevice.

    Bluetooth only

    Zwift on iOS will only support Bluetooth connections at this time, since iDevices do not have ANT+ built in. All true smart trainers support Bluetooth as well as ANT+, so this won’t be a problem on that front, but people using certain devices which only support ANT+ will need to purchase a Bluetooth to ANT bridge such as the Viiiiva heart rate monitor ($80US) so their ANT+ signals can be converted to Bluetooth.

    What’s the big deal?

    Arguably the largest single barrier to Zwift entry is on the computing side of things: many people do not have powerful enough computers to run Zwift smoothly, or at all. (Zwift requires Windows 7 64bit or higher or macOS 10.7 or higher, plus 4GB of memory and a fairly beefy graphics card.)

    This move opens Zwift up to a massive new audience of folks who aren’t willing to make a huge investment in indoor training but already have a compatible iDevice and an indoor trainer. No ANT+ dongle needed: just pair your trainer to your iDevice and go! This is going to be huge.

    When?

    According to road.cc the app will be available in September with beta testing invites being sent out to the Zwift community. Zwift HQ is hoping to roll out the full app this winter.

    Here’s an excellent “first look” video from everyone’s favorite lama from down under, Shane Miller:

    And here’s a more in-depth writeup from James Gill, who maintains the unofficial Zwift user manual.


    CycleOps announces new Magnus smart trainer

    • News
    • Trainers
    Eric Schlange
    -
    August 22, 2016
    0
    CycleOps announces new Magnus smart trainer

    CycleOps announces new Magnus smart trainer

    magnusUS-based CycleOps has announced the “Magnus,” a rear wheel on smart trainer aimed at the middle of the market occupied by the likes of Wahoo’s Kickr Snap, Tacx’s Bushido and others.

    It’s good to see that CycleOps is jumping into the smart trainer game with both feet this fall, having announced the higher-end “Hammer” wheel-off trainer several weeks back. We expect both of these trainers to be available sometime in September.

    CycleOps is focusing on the speed and responsiveness of the Magnus’ electromagnetic resistance unit, claiming it is highly responsive to even the smallest changes in power output. Perhaps this will result in less “lag” on Zwift when hitting hills or putting out more power?

    Here are the key specs:

    • Proven PowerTap technology for accurate power readings
    • 1500 watt peak resistance
    • Noise level: 69 decibels at 20 mph (quiet!)
    • Retail price: $599US

    Of course, like other smart trainer it supports ANT+ FE-C as well as Bluetooth.

    Cycleops Magnus homepage >

    Magnus announcement from Cycleops >


    Races for rookies: KISS Starter, Escape Velocity, The Friday Criterium

    • Racing
    Eric Schlange
    -
    August 17, 2016
    0
    Races for rookies: KISS Starter, Escape Velocity, The Friday Criterium

    Races for rookies: KISS Starter, Escape Velocity, The Friday Criterium

    If you have never raced in Zwift, or you are a slower rider looking for races focused slower categories, check out these upcoming races.

    starter

    KISS Starter

    • From the creators of the hugely popular KISS races, here’s a series of races designed to introduce riders to Zwift racing.
    • Categories: C/D categories only, or new racers. (Categories based on your FTP watts instead of watts/kilogram since the races are done on flat courses.)
      NE: > 308W Avg
      C: 269 to 308W Avg
      D below 269W Avg
    • Typical race length: 10-15 miles
    • Schedule: intermittent, check Zwift events or the see KISS events page for more information
    • Organizers: Glen Knight, Wayne Elvin, Michael Ede
    • Learn more at the KISS Facebook page

    ev

    EVR (Escape Velocity Race)

    • Created to provide an entry-level race for all categories of riders. Follows KISS race rules. Scheduled on Monday-Wednesday-Friday since these are days with fewer Zwift races at this time.
    • Categories: use your FTP and then divide by your weight in kg to find your group:
      A: 4.0 W/kg FTP or higher
      B: 3.2 W/kg to 3.99 W/kg FTP
      C: 2.5 W/kg to 3.19 W/kg FTP
      D: Under 2.49 W/kg FTP
      W: Females who wish to have a separate categorization.
    • Typical race length: 18-25 miles
    • Schedule: 11:30 PDT on Monday, Wednesday, Friday each week
    • Organizers: BJ Afonso, Stuart Lynne
    • Learn more at the EVR Facebook page

    tfcs

    TFC (The Friday Criterium)

    • Created last year as a series focused solely on C and D riders,  this year TFC will include A and B riders while still maintaining a focus on encouraging C’s and D’s to race. Read a writeup from last year’s first TFC race >
    • Categories: use your FTP and then divide by your weight in kg to find your group:
      A: 4.0 W/kg FTP or higher
      B: 3.2 W/kg to 3.99 W/kg FTP
      C: 2.5 W/kg to 3.19 W/kg FTP
      D: Under 2.49 W/kg FTP
      W: Females who wish to have a separate categorization.
    • Typical race length: ~20 miles
    • Schedule: 13-race series for the fall begins September 9th at 11 AM PDT
    • Organizer: Alan Wyers
    • Learn more at The Friday Criterium Facebook page

    Elite Drivo direct-drive trainer unveiled

    • News
    • Trainers
    Eric Schlange
    -
    August 17, 2016
    0
    Elite Drivo direct-drive trainer unveiled

    Elite Drivo direct-drive trainer unveiled

    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!


    Tacx Flux keeps it quiet

    • News
    • Trainers
    Eric Schlange
    -
    August 15, 2016
    0
    Tacx Flux keeps it quiet

    Tacx Flux keeps it quiet

    fluxBikeRadar recently toured Tacx’s facility in Wassenaar, Holland, posting a writeup which includes many interesting details about Tacx’s production techniques and overall company philosophy.

    The article includes a sneak peak at Tacx’s “Flux” trainer which we wrote about 10 days ago even though it has yet to be released to the market.

    BikeRadar says the new Flux could be called the “Neo Light” because it offers a similar quiet ride thanks to electromagnetic resistance, but at a lower price. This is a surprising revelation, because we initially assumed the Flux would use a belt drive based on its design and lower price. Apparently Tacx is using less expensive magnetic coils to keep the price down.

    Neo vs Flux

    Here are my current best guesses as to Flux specs vs the Neo.

    • Same low noise
    • Simulated flywheel vs real flywheel
    • 2200w max brake power vs 1500w
    • Incline simulation: 25% vs 10%
    • Power measurement accuracy: 2% vs 5%
    • Price: £1,200 vs £699
    • Road feel only supported on Neo

    UPDATE: Tacx has taken the Flux Smart page live on their site. See the details here >

    DC Rainmaker has also released a hands-on review here >


    Zwiftcast Episode 7

    • Interviews
    • News
    • Racing
    • Trainers
    Simon Schofield
    -
    August 10, 2016
    0
    Zwiftcast Episode 7

    Zwiftcast Episode 7

    The latest episode of Zwiftcast has been released, and it’s a good one! Big news for the Zwiftcast: it will now be featured in-game on select group rides so you can listen to it as you ride.


    For this episode we are also trying a new way of listening to the Zwiftcast. Look out on selected Group Rides and Events on Zwift where you may find a button to enable you to listen as you Zwift, in-game, using the platform’s new audio functionality.

    Simon, Shane and Nathan get together to discuss the latest Zwift news, plus a series of features on matters of interest to all Zwifters.

    Nathan relates how he broke his collar bone racing and how Zwift is helping his rehab.

    There’s a feature with Tim Searle, leader of the Australian HDR ride, which is drawing huge numbers and may now be the biggest group ride on Zwift.

    Charlie Issendorf, VP of Events for Zwift, tells us how the new Event Module is bedding in and forecasts how it’s going to develop in coming weeks.

    Simon, Shane and Nathan discus the new London course, the advent of bad weather on Zwift and speculate about the possible introduction of a velodrome..

    Team Sky’s Head of Innovation, Simon Jones, a keen Zwifter, talks about how augmented reality and virtual; reality may have a part to play in pro rider training in the future.

    In part two of our interview with Charlie, we discuss the next stage in the development of the platform towards a general fitness arena, with the testing of running in the virtual environments.

    This episode of the Zwiftcast wraps up with a discussion on a slew of new trainers which have just been announced.


    Runners rejoice! Zwift may soon transform your treadmill experience…

    • News
    Eric Schlange
    -
    August 8, 2016
    0
    Runners rejoice! Zwift may soon transform your treadmill experience…

    Runners rejoice! Zwift may soon transform your treadmill experience…

    Zwift creator and lead developer Jon Mayfield has been spotted in-game and on Strava beta-testing running on Zwift. Here’s a virtual half marathon he posted on August 7th >

    running running2 running-2

    Jon has experimented with running on Zwift since its early days, but it appears that Zwift may be looking to make running an official part of the game soon now that avatars and the game display have been modified for running (see screenshots above).

    A treadmill broadcasting power or a foot pod should be enough to let runners on a treadmill easily begin using Zwift, so the barrier to entry for runners will be quite low. And while (like cycling) Zwift won’t replicate the true feel of running outdoors, it will certainly be a vast improvement of the typical treadmill workout. It will also open up opportunities for group runs and races.

    #RunOn!

     


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