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    Trainers

    Differences Between Wahoo KICKR Versions

    Eric Schlange
    By Eric Schlange
    March 7, 2023
    LAST UPDATED March 7, 2023
    10

    Wahoo’s KICKR is the most popular smart trainer in the world, and for good reason – it was one of the first, it’s built like a tank, and it’s backed by Wahoo’s solid support and distribution network.

    Now in its 6th generation, things can get a little confusing if you’re looking to buy a used KICKR or pick up some new/old stock at a bargain price.


    Buy a New Wahoo KICKR

    Backcountry $999 SALE In stock
    Wahoo $999 SALE In stock
    REI $1000 SALE

    Here’s a complete rundown of all the differences between each KICKR generation so you can tell them apart visually and understand the evolution of this smart trainer.

    Identifying Your KICKR Generation

    Each KICKR has a few unique characteristics which make it easy to identify visually.

    KICKR v1 (’14)

    • Carry handle is black and directly mounted to downsloping bar
    • Power plug is beneath that handle on the underside of the downsloping bar
    • No LED lights

    KICKR v2 (’16)

    • Downsloping bar completely envelopes the rear axle assembly and has a straight plastic cap
    • Flywheel side of pulley is not recessed

    KICKR v3 (’17)

    • Downsloping bar ends flush with the rear axle, has a welded top, with a slight bulge in the center where the axle travels through
    • Flywheel side of pulley is not recessed

    KICKR v4 (’18)

    • Downsloping bar ends flush with the rear axle, has a welded top, with a slight bulge in the center where the axle travels through
    • Flywheel side of pulley is recessed

    KICKR v5 (’20)

    • Includes an RJ11 (phone jack) Direct Connect port just above the power plug
    • Wider AXIS feet used for all contact points

    KICKR v6 (’22)

    • WiFi status light instead of ANT+

    SKU/Part # Identification

    KICKR models can be identified by the Part# on the white sticker on the drive side of the flywheel plastics:

    ModelSKU/Part #
    KICKR v6 (2022)WFBKTR122
    KICKR v5 (2020)WFBKTR120
    KICKR v4 (2018)WFBKTR118
    KICKR v3 (2017)WFBKTR117
    KICKR v2 (2016)WFBKTR116
    KICKR v1 (< 2016)WFBKTRNR11
    KICKR COREWFBKTR4

    Hardware Differences Between KICKR Models

    Model YearBelt TypeFlywheelAccuracyNotes
    2014 (Gen 1)Timing
    12lb3%The only model with a strain gauge, a slanted handle, and no LED indicators.
    2016 (Gen 2)Timing
    12lb2%
    2017 (Gen 3)Timing
    12lb2%
    2018 (Gen 4)V16lb2%First model to include built-in cadence and support multiple Bluetooth connections.
    2020 (Gen 5)V16lb1%First model to include auto-calibration, an RJ11 port, and AXIS feet.
    2022 (Gen 6)V16lb1%First model to include WiFi

    Compatibility/Feel Differences Between KICKR Models

    Model YearNoise LevelClimb compatibleThru Axle compatibilityResponsiveness
    2014 (Gen 1)NoisyNo12x142 with adapter kitDecent
    2016 (Gen 2)Quieter than previousNoSame as previousBetter than previous
    2017 (Gen 3)Same as previousYes (Usually)12x142 and 12x148 Same as previous
    2018 (Gen 4)Very quietYesSame as previousSame as previous
    2020 (Gen 5)Same as previousYesSame as previousRace mode supported
    2022 (Gen 6)Same as previousYesSame as previousSame as previous

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      Eric Schlange
      Eric Schlangehttp://www.zwiftinsider.com
      Eric runs Zwift Insider in his spare time when he isn't on the bike or managing various business interests. He lives in Northern California with his beautiful wife, two kids and dog. Follow on Strava

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