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Cycling in my living room, help required..

  • 27-12-2015 3:07pm
    #1
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,538 ✭✭✭


    Ok, I'm hoping some more experienced people here will be able to point me in the right direction.

    I am interested in cycle training in my living room, looking for a system that is interactive, so maybe something that connects to my TV allowing me to race online or at least see the route..

    I wont take up any more of your time but if you can point me in the right direction to the options I would appreciate it.

    Thanks :)


«1

Comments

  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 469 ✭✭JBokeh


    ZWIFT is the big one at the minute, it is like a video game that you control the speed of by cycling, I've never tried it myself.
    This is a link to their website, it tells you everything you need to know to get it going, I imagine the more money you throw at it the better the experience is,but it still will be pretty hard to beat being outdoors and actually cycling
    http://zwift.com/what-is-it/supported-trainers/


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,538 ✭✭✭sunny2004


    JBokeh wrote: »
    ZWIFT is the big one at the minute, it is like a video game that you control the speed of by cycling, I've never tried it myself.
    This is a link to their website, it tells you everything you need to know to get it going, I imagine the more money you throw at it the better the experience is,but it still will be pretty hard to beat being outdoors and actually cycling
    http://zwift.com/what-is-it/supported-trainers/

    Firstly I will check it out, and thank you for your time..
    Secondly, I fully intend getting outside, my intension is to do it in doors until I fell a bit more healthy then mess with the device so when I reach a certain speed I launch from the device out the window, think ET on a bike.. again thank you for your help :)


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 469 ✭✭JBokeh


    If you want launched off a bike into the outdoors, i'd recommend rollers :pac:

    From the Zwift site I'd say you''d get away with a turbo and a cadence/speed sensor. I do my indoor training on an elite trainer with an MTB on it and a turbo tyre. I've been meaning to check my cadence and speed with a computer, but I just do some of the training videos on youtube. I might get myself set up with Zwitf if some of my mates do it too, I can see it being a lot more fun than what I'm doing at the moment


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,538 ✭✭✭sunny2004


    JBokeh wrote: »
    If you want launched off a bike into the outdoors, i'd recommend rollers :pac:

    From the Zwift site I'd say you''d get away with a turbo and a cadence/speed sensor. I do my indoor training on an elite trainer with an MTB on it and a turbo tyre. I've been meaning to check my cadence and speed with a computer, but I just do some of the training videos on youtube. I might get myself set up with Zwitf if some of my mates do it too, I can see it being a lot more fun than what I'm doing at the moment

    ok I looked at the site, looks perfect ,then I went through the process, and came across a long list of options for trainers, no idea what they meant,,
    Keep in mind my bike is from Halfords and is a nice shiny white one ;) might explain why im staying indoors lol anyway im lost what the next step..

    So I viewed a thred here for special offers, came across a trainer that then led me to this one.

    http://www.halfords.ie/cycling/turbo-trainers/trainers/tacx-blue-twist-turbo-trainer

    looked good but I understand I now need monitoring hardware ?


    turbo and a cadence/speed sensor ok, keeping in mind I explain my bike as a sparkly white model im lost what this is...

    Really sorry for my noob approach.. but one day, after I launch out the window ( I live on the 5th floor) I will write a book on the subject ;)

    Again, any advice appreciated and thanks again..
    Can I add I don't want to change my back wheel ......

    EDIT....
    Maybe I need this instead...

    http://www.halfords.ie/cycling/turbo-trainers/trainers/tacx-satori-smart-turbo-trainer


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 433 ✭✭delynet


    The basic setup you need for Zwift is a speed\cadence sensor that is ANT+ compatible. Something like the Garmin ones. Then you need an ANT+ USB stick to pick up the signals from the sensor(s).

    Finally you need to input in your weight and it works out virtual power. A heart rate monitor helps too. Zwift is all about power so it works best with a power meter but virtual power is enough to get started. I have more info here on my blog

    http://www.dely.net/cycling-blog/zwift-cycling-app/


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  • Closed Accounts Posts: 18,268 ✭✭✭✭uck51js9zml2yt


    I'm in the same boat as yourself but halfords have am elite magnetic trainer with tyre for 70.79 euro


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,538 ✭✭✭sunny2004


    delynet wrote: »
    The basic setup you need for Zwift is a speed\cadence sensor that is ANT+ compatible. Something like the Garmin ones. Then you need an ANT+ USB stick to pick up the signals from the sensor(s).

    Finally you need to input in your weight and it works out virtual power. A heart rate monitor helps too. Zwift is all about power so it works best with a power meter but virtual power is enough to get started. I have more info here on my blog

    http://www.dely.net/cycling-blog/zwift-cycling-app/

    Read the blog, and posted a comment on it, thank you for that..
    We are still at the point of my noob approach to this..
    in my previous post, I linked to 2 of Halfords trainers, will either be a starting point ? I appreciate I need additional hardware, I simply don't want to make a mistake at the beginning and end up with something that I cant use moving forward..

    Thank you for you time :)


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,538 ✭✭✭sunny2004


    I'm in the same boat as yourself but halfords have am elite magnetic trainer with tyre for 70.79 euro

    I don't want the hassle of the tyre...
    I want to be able to take my bike off and ride outside..
    Or am I missing something here..


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 433 ✭✭delynet


    sunny2004 wrote: »
    Read the blog, and posted a comment on it, thank you for that..
    We are still at the point of my noob approach to this..
    in my previous post, I linked to 2 of Halfords trainers, will either be a starting point ? I appreciate I need additional hardware, I simply don't want to make a mistake at the beginning and end up with something that I cant use moving forward..

    Thank you for you time :)

    I use the same turbo that Halfords are selling. The important bit is speed/cadence sensor and ANT+ USB stick


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,538 ✭✭✭sunny2004


    delynet wrote: »
    I use the same turbo that Halfords are selling. The important bit is speed/cadence sensor and ANT+ USB stick

    Which turbo ? I posted 2 links.. sorry lol

    Then I will sort out the next stage ,the speed/cadence sensor etc


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,409 ✭✭✭sullzz


    sunny2004 wrote: »
    I don't want the hassle of the tyre...
    I want to be able to take my bike off and ride outside..
    Or am I missing something here..

    A standard road tyre will not last long using it on a turbo , get an old wheel with a turbo tyre fitted and fit it to your bike when using the turbo.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 205 ✭✭Yourmama


    I'm in the same boat as yourself but halfords have am elite magnetic trainer with tyre for 70.79 euro

    Cheap trainers will give very little resistance. Tacx bluematic im using myself, can be found in just over 100 will give you reasonable start. And I use it in zwift
    sunny2004 wrote:
    I don't want the hassle of the tyre... I want to be able to take my bike off and ride outside.. Or am I missing something here..
    Normal tyre will wear quickly and is prone to puncture due to heat generated in contact with trainer. The best is to have separate cheap wheel with turbo tyre on and quickly change if you want to go out


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 433 ✭✭delynet


    sunny2004 wrote: »
    Which turbo ? I posted 2 links.. sorry lol

    Then I will sort out the next stage ,the speed/cadence sensor etc

    Actually, neither of them. I use this one and this offer comes with turbo tyre at a great price

    http://www.halfords.ie/cycling/turbo-trainers/trainers/elite-magnetic-cycle-trainer-halfords-essential-trainer-tyre

    BTW - I have used an old Continental tyre on my turbo for past few months and no issues. Done about 700 virtual km


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,538 ✭✭✭sunny2004


    delynet wrote: »
    Actually, neither of them. I use this one and this offer comes with turbo tyre at a great price

    http://www.halfords.ie/cycling/turbo-trainers/trainers/elite-magnetic-cycle-trainer-halfords-essential-trainer-tyre

    BTW - I have used an old Continental tyre on my turbo for past few months and no issues. Done about 700 virtual km

    Thanks.. so that has no electronics in it, so the sensor you buy separate...

    So I could go with this right ?
    http://www.halfords.ie/cycling/turbo-trainers/trainers/tacx-blue-twist-turbo-trainer

    and is it worth the extra for this to get the sensor part sorted ? or just buy the sensor separate..
    http://www.halfords.ie/cycling/turbo-trainers/trainers/tacx-satori-smart-turbo-trainer


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 433 ✭✭delynet


    sunny2004 wrote: »
    Thanks.. so that has no electronics in it, so the sensor you buy separate...

    So I could go with this right ?
    http://www.halfords.ie/cycling/turbo-trainers/trainers/tacx-blue-twist-turbo-trainer

    and is it worth the extra for this to get the sensor part sorted ? or just buy the sensor separate..
    http://www.halfords.ie/cycling/turbo-trainers/trainers/tacx-satori-smart-turbo-trainer

    If you buy the sensors separate you can use them out on the road. ANT+ USB stick is around 25


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,538 ✭✭✭sunny2004


    delynet wrote: »
    If you buy the sensors separate you can use them out on the road. ANT+ USB stick is around 25

    Im temped to say why would I do that, but I am trying not to be annoying..

    So I think I will get this as its cheaper... and suitable for all bikes, or so it says..

    http://www.halfords.ie/cycling/turbo-trainers/trainers/tacx-blue-twist-turbo-trainer

    any chance of a link to the ANT+ usb stick for around the price ? I cant find them on Halfords.. so any help would be appreciated..

    EDIT... Quote.. The important bit is speed/cadence sensor and ANT+ USB stick
    The only one I can find is this.. its expensive..
    http://www.halfords.ie/cycling/turbo-trainers/trainers/kinetic-inride-bluetooth-sensor-pod-with-heart-rate-monitor


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,460 ✭✭✭lennymc


    zwift is fun. I'm going for a ride with Laurens Ten Dam in the morning.....


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 205 ✭✭Yourmama


    sunny2004 wrote:
    any chance of a link to the ANT+ usb stick for around the price ? I cant find them on Halfords.. so any help would be appreciated..

    Look for suunto movestick on bike24.de or bike-discount.de they have the best prices.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,538 ✭✭✭sunny2004


    WHERE I AM AT NOW....

    Right to get ZWIFT to work...

    I have the Bike and laptop...

    I'm looking at turbo trainer..
    http://www.halfords.ie/cycling/turbo-trainers/trainers/tacx-blue-twist-turbo-trainer#

    and the cadense thingy...
    http://www.halfords.ie/technology/wearable-technology/fitness-trackers/wahoo-rpm-cadence-sensor-with-bluetooth-smart-and-ant--connectivity

    and this...
    http://www.bike-discount.de/en/buy/suunto-movestick-mini-65145

    They all ok ??
    that leaves me with heart rate monitor ?
    and how does the program Zwift, activate the resistance heading up hill ?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 205 ✭✭Yourmama


    It doesn't unless you have smart trainer. On the tacx you quoted above, you just set the resistance to level 3 and off you go. Game goes slower on climb and faster on descent but you don't feel difference under pedal


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,185 ✭✭✭nilhg


    sunny2004 wrote: »
    WHERE I AM AT NOW....

    Right to get ZWIFT to work...

    I have the Bike and laptop...

    I'm looking at turbo trainer..
    http://www.halfords.ie/cycling/turbo-trainers/trainers/tacx-blue-twist-turbo-trainer#

    and the cadense thingy...
    http://www.halfords.ie/technology/wearable-technology/fitness-trackers/wahoo-rpm-cadence-sensor-with-bluetooth-smart-and-ant--connectivity

    and this...
    http://www.bike-discount.de/en/buy/suunto-movestick-mini-65145

    They all ok ??
    that leaves me with heart rate monitor ?
    and how does the program Zwift, activate the resistance heading up hill ?

    That wahoo is cadence only by the looks of it, for Zwift you'll need speed and cadence either together as a combined sensor or an extra speed sensor with the Wahoo.

    TBH it's hard to advise the OP, spending a non trivial amount of money on speed, cadence and HRM sensors without considering what head unit they might be used with when the bike goes where it belongs, out on the road.

    By the time the OP buys everything he'll probably be getting into the price range of a smart trainer, the best way forwards depends on whether the OP wants to do most of his cycling indoors or out.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 14,907 ✭✭✭✭CJhaughey


    OP, you were correct in your second post, the best Halfords trainer for Zwift is the Tacx Satori Smart Trainer that you linked to:

    http://www.halfords.ie/cycling/turbo-trainers/trainers/tacx-satori-smart-turbo-trainer

    The Zwift site says that it is compatible with the software and will give you an interactive experience. IE when you go up a hill the resistance changes.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 37 Herc


    CJhaughey wrote: »
    OP, you were correct in your second post, the best Halfords trainer for Zwift is the Tacx Satori Smart Trainer that you linked to:

    http://www.halfords.ie/cycling/turbo-trainers/trainers/tacx-satori-smart-turbo-trainer

    The Zwift site says that it is compatible with the software and will give you an interactive experience. IE when you go up a hill the resistance changes.

    Not quite true CJ unfortunately. Being 'compatible' and one offering full interactive experience are two different things. To get full interactive with auto resistance changes etc your into a considerable amount more money than OP is considering (500+). OP my own opinion having used a number of the options being outlined above is that you will be quite disappointed quite soon if you go any of the piecemeal routes you are considering but obviously cost is an over-riding factor so you need to match expectations accordingly. Another middle of the road option is the Elite Qubo Digital, think I seen them hovering just over the 300 price point recently and can be used with elites own app for 10euro for the year and offers most of what you are looking for.

    For ref again on the tacx mentioned above below is from the tacx site on this model

    'Controlling the resistance unit of the Satori Smart is not possible by a computer, but it does receive your performance data. For example, the computer software offers longer video’s in HD or Blu-Ray quality. While riding, the speed of the image is similar to your speed. Controlling the resistance has to be done manually with the lever on your steer.

    To connect the Satori Smart to a Windows computer you’ll need the Upgrade Smart. This includes the Tacx Trainer software 4, Advanced, a control box to mount on your handlebar and the ANT+ Antenna.'


  • Administrators, Social & Fun Moderators, Sports Moderators Posts: 78,393 Admin ✭✭✭✭✭Beasty


    lennymc wrote: »
    zwift is fun. I'm going for a ride with Laurens Ten Dam in the morning.....
    Think Rob's lining you up for a mud wrestle in a week or two;)


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 18,268 ✭✭✭✭uck51js9zml2yt


    On a slightly side note...how easy difficult is it to fit a new cassette to a wheel?

    I'd rather a spare wheel for the trainer than having to change tyres all the time. Halfords were looking for about €80/90 for both. I'm hoping to find cheaper and do it myself or maybe its just false economy my doing it!!


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,538 ✭✭✭sunny2004


    nilhg wrote: »
    That wahoo is cadence only by the looks of it, for Zwift you'll need speed and cadence either together as a combined sensor or an extra speed sensor with the Wahoo.

    TBH it's hard to advise the OP, spending a non trivial amount of money on speed, cadence and HRM sensors without considering what head unit they might be used with when the bike goes where it belongs, out on the road.

    By the time the OP buys everything he'll probably be getting into the price range of a smart trainer, the best way forwards depends on whether the OP wants to do most of his cycling indoors or out.

    IN my stupidity, I simply want it all, I want the drag going uphill and the free wheeling freedom going down.. I also want to put my bike on and take it off, without swapping wheels.. as often or as little as I want,,
    Herc wrote: »
    Not quite true CJ unfortunately. Being 'compatible' and one offering full interactive experience are two different things. To get full interactive with auto resistance changes etc your into a considerable amount more money than OP is considering (500+). OP my own opinion having used a number of the options being outlined above is that you will be quite disappointed quite soon if you go any of the piecemeal routes you are considering but obviously cost is an over-riding factor so you need to match expectations accordingly. Another middle of the road option is the Elite Qubo Digital, think I seen them hovering just over the 300 price point recently and can be used with elites own app for 10euro for the year and offers most of what you are looking for.

    For ref again on the tacx mentioned above below is from the tacx site on this model

    'Controlling the resistance unit of the Satori Smart is not possible by a computer, but it does receive your performance data. For example, the computer software offers longer video’s in HD or Blu-Ray quality. While riding, the speed of the image is similar to your speed. Controlling the resistance has to be done manually with the lever on your steer.

    To connect the Satori Smart to a Windows computer you’ll need the Upgrade Smart. This includes the Tacx Trainer software 4, Advanced, a control box to mount on your handlebar and the ANT+ Antenna.'


    thank you for this... its getting complicated :( I am going to look up the Elite Qubo Digital... I had started thinking I could do this for €200 obviously not lol I also agree I will be disappointed with the options so far.. I simply want to feel the drag uphill and the free wheel experience downhill. I might consider more money if I can get IT ALL ....

    EDIT>. The ELite Qubo, reviews say its complicated to set up and shreds tyres ??

    Anyway, now looking at this as it says it does the resistance automatically with ZWIFT..

    http://www.evanscycles.com/products/tacx/vortex-smart-trainer-ec073195#answers


  • Administrators, Social & Fun Moderators, Sports Moderators Posts: 78,393 Admin ✭✭✭✭✭Beasty


    On a slightly side note...how easy difficult is it to fit a new cassette to a wheel?

    I'd rather a spare wheel for the trainer than having to change tyres all the time. Halfords were looking for about €80/90 for both. I'm hoping to find cheaper and do it myself or maybe its just false economy my doing it!!
    Cassette removal tool and chain whip required (which can be picked up very easily), then it's easy to install a cassette (just make sure you know if your hub is Campy or Shimano compatible before dishing out any dosh)


  • Moderators, Science, Health & Environment Moderators Posts: 11,669 Mod ✭✭✭✭RobFowl


    sunny2004 wrote: »
    thank you for this... its getting complicated :( I am going to look up the Elite Qubo Digital... I had started thinking I could do this for €200 obviously not lol I also agree I will be disappointed with the options so far.. I simply want to feel the drag uphill and the free wheel experience downhill. I might consider more money if I can get IT ALL ...

    Maybe a spin outside?
    Howth/Sally Gap ???


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,538 ✭✭✭sunny2004


    RobFowl wrote: »
    Maybe a spin outside?
    Howth/Sally Gap ???

    Now why would I want to do that? Have I not posted looking for advice on indoor trainers ? ;)


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,538 ✭✭✭sunny2004


    http://www.evanscycles.com/products/tacx/vortex-smart-trainer-ec073195#answers?xid=78888&awc=1302_1451381895_b6d294a9d3ccac1ea653c7321e040d91&utm_source=Awin&utm_medium=Affiliate&utm_campaign=78888

    Looking like this will do everything ?

    Sorry for all the questions but I'm new to all this.. and fat from Christmas, so need a solution lol


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,259 ✭✭✭Hunterbiker


    If you are using the turbo indoors and especially if you are not using a trainer tyre make sure you put something down (against a wall if the back of the trainer is close to it) as the tyre will throw off small particles of rubber compound that may mark / make a mess/ invoke the wrath of 'that special person in your life'...
    A trainer tyre is less likely to do this.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,368 ✭✭✭Daroxtar


    sunny2004 wrote: »
    http://www.evanscycles.com/products/tacx/vortex-smart-trainer-ec073195#answers?xid=78888&awc=1302_1451381895_b6d294a9d3ccac1ea653c7321e040d91&utm_source=Awin&utm_medium=Affiliate&utm_campaign=78888

    Looking like this will do everything ?

    Sorry for all the questions but I'm new to all this.. and fat from Christmas, so need a solution lol

    The link above will do most, you can run most of the apps from Tablet but you need the TTS upgrade if you want to control resistance automatically from laptop.

    This is the cheapest I could find that will do everything you want. It's only a few quid more and opens up the use of VR videos and more 3Rd party control

    http://www.rosebikes.com/article/tacx-vortex-smart-t2180-indoor-trainer-full-connected-edition-incl-t2028-ant-antenna-and-t199004-sof/aid:858355


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,538 ✭✭✭sunny2004


    Firstly I want to thank all those who took their time to help me out.. I feel like I am getting there.. all be it at great expense it would seem haha

    If you are using the turbo indoors and especially if you are not using a trainer tyre make sure you put something down (against a wall if the back of the trainer is close to it) as the tyre will throw off small particles of rubber compound that may mark / make a mess/ invoke the wrath of 'that special person in your life'...
    A trainer tyre is less likely to do this.

    GREAT ADVICE>> this is what boards is all about..
    Daroxtar wrote: »
    The link above will do most, you can run most of the apps from Tablet but you need the TTS upgrade if you want to control resistance automatically from laptop.

    This is the cheapest I could find that will do everything you want. It's only a few quid more and opens up the use of VR videos and more 3Rd party control

    http://www.rosebikes.com/article/tacx-vortex-smart-t2180-indoor-trainer-full-connected-edition-incl-t2028-ant-antenna-and-t199004-sof/aid:858355

    Expensive but looking extremely promising.. :)


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 829 ✭✭✭Koobcam


    sunny2004 wrote: »
    http://www.evanscycles.com/products/tacx/vortex-smart-trainer-ec073195#answers?xid=78888&awc=1302_1451381895_b6d294a9d3ccac1ea653c7321e040d91&utm_source=Awin&utm_medium=Affiliate&utm_campaign=78888

    Looking like this will do everything ?

    Sorry for all the questions but I'm new to all this.. and fat from Christmas, so need a solution lol

    Not sure if you've bought it yet, but the Tacx vortex in the link is probably the best trainer you can get if you want it to be controlled by 3rd party software (like Zwift) but are conscious of cost (if you don't care about the money, get the Tacx Neo Smart or the Wahoo Kickr, both will cost at least a grand and a half). I got the vortex a few weeks ago and it works really well with Zwift. You also do not need separate speed and cadence sensors to get it to work (though as others have pointed out, those sensors would be handy if/when you take the bike outdoors), though a heart monitor would be useful. The Vortex can also be controlled by other apps, like Trainerroad and I think Tacx also have some of their own software with interactive features, so basically you can get the whole living room gaming experience with this trainer. Not sure if you have a Garmin, but it would be a handy thing to have (maybe the next big purchase once you've done enough indoor cycling). The Edge 520 can also control the Vortex, so you can do cool things like riding real routes-you won;t get any video but this might be a good way to do intervals. One thing to note, Tacx sell a software bundle with an ANT+ stick for about an extra €130, you do NOT need this, you can get an ANT+ stick on Amazon for around €20, and that's all you'd need for Zwift. On the tyre thing, I just use worn tyres that still have a bit of life left in them. If you have the trainer calibrated and positioned correctly, it should be ok, just keep an eye on the wear indicators on the tyre. Unless you plan on doing thousands of kms indoors, you would be unlikely to wear it down.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,538 ✭✭✭sunny2004




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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,368 ✭✭✭Daroxtar




  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,538 ✭✭✭sunny2004


    sunny2004 wrote: »
    Daroxtar wrote: »

    Great read.. cheers..

    he says....

    Finally, for those trying to figure out the difference between the Vortex Smart and the Bushido Smart, the Bushido doesn’t require power from an outlet. The Vortex does. I just don’t see that being worth $300 for most people. Or heck, even $50 unless you train outside on a trainer a lot such as at a race start.

    he goes on to say...

    Tacx Bushido: While it has more incline simulation capability (15% vs Vortex Smart at 7%), that really only impacts you if you’re doing hills above that. It’s about the slow speed, and not actually the total wattage output.


    So as the price isn't that wide anymore, its actually 120 difference should I go with the bushido instead ? see my links above in this post..

    Actually the smart might be the better option . lol


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,195 ✭✭✭padyjoe


    I asked already asked about the 60 quid Elite turbo in Halfords. What else would you get with it (tyre, choke, etc.)? I had my mind some smart trainers but spending that much money on a thing which going to be used for the winter doesn't cut for me. How loud is it? Would the Tacx Blue Twist be worth the €29 extra? (I need to get chain and cassette with it as well. Or putting back the old ones on the old wheel, then I'm going to ruin my chainring. I want to do some spin now because haven't had much chance in 2 months due to weather.)


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,696 ✭✭✭Thud




  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,538 ✭✭✭sunny2004


    Thud wrote: »

    Its in German, is it the same product just in a different colour ?


    Thanks for your time :)


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 149 ✭✭gambeta_fc


    Top right corner of the page, you can click on the German flag and change the country/language.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,464 ✭✭✭jamesd


    Thud wrote: »


    Would this work with zwift and do inclines and recents automatically ? Anyone here use one ?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,696 ✭✭✭Thud


    Its on the Zwift website as a supported smart trainer


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,464 ✭✭✭jamesd


    It says :
    "Virtual speed
    The electro brake does not have a downhill drive, such as the motor brake of the i-Genius, and it generates less power while riding uphill. When you are cycling in a virtual terrain or in a film you can get outside the range for which the brake is intended. To allow cyclists with a motor brake and cyclists with an electro brake to ride races against each other in Multiplayer, Tacx has developed the virtual speed. This concept translatesthe energy supplied into a certain speed, which can guarantee a fair contest. If this speed differs from the speed at which the rear wheel is running, the virtual speed will be shown on the screen in red. "

    And "This brake does not simulate any descents. "


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 18,268 ✭✭✭✭uck51js9zml2yt


    Beasty wrote: »
    Cassette removal tool and chain whip required (which can be picked up very easily), then it's easy to install a cassette (just make sure you know if your hub is Campy or Shimano compatible before dishing out any dosh)


    Can I pick your brains on this ?

    Here's a link to the bike .
    The Cassette is a Shimano HG41 11-30.

    Can you point me towards a suitable wheel that wont break the bank?
    thanks


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,368 ✭✭✭Daroxtar


    OK, just spent the last couple of hours setting up and playing with my new toy. Like Koobcam above, I got a Tacx Vortex Smart. I went for the "fully connected" one as I don't have a suitable Tablet so I'm running the VR and training programs from my laptop. I got it for €389 from Rose. If sold separately, the turbo, advanced TTS software and Ant+ dongle would have been close to €500. I needed the dongle too as my other one is an old USB1 and couldn't handle Zwift.
    Took a while to get set up and installed properly, a bit of fiddling around with drivers and conflicts with Garmin but eventually got going.

    First impressions are very positive. I did a quick spin onthe mountain terrain on the TACX software and the Turbo was very responsive. It felt realistic, it was unbelievably quiet compared to my old one and when it ramped up to full resistance it was tough going. It's supposed to be a realistic simulation up to 7%, it felt plenty for what I'll be using it for.

    Playing around with it, I logged into strava and was able to download GPX files of rides and segments that I've done and want to do. If I pay extra for the Google Earth licence I can ride routes in Street view- maybe a gimmick but could also be a good training tool.

    I had a quick look at the other features built in, the Catalyst training program looks good so that's one to think about and there's a decent collection of RLV videos available from Tacx, and a whole load more user created ones on different websites.
    The TTS software also allows the turbo to be controlled by Kinomap, Bkool, Trainerroad and some other 3Rd party programs.
    There's a load more features I've yet to suss out but if I find anything interesting I'll post it here.

    Finally I'd just like to say that nothing beats getting out on the bike but I work long days, have two small kids and the wife works shifts in the hospital so the turbo is often my only option. My old one did the trick but sounded like a skillsaw. The Vortex is a serious piece of kit. I'm actually looking forward to suffering on it.


  • Moderators, Science, Health & Environment Moderators Posts: 11,669 Mod ✭✭✭✭RobFowl


    Daroxtar wrote: »

    Finally I'd just like to say that nothing beats getting out on the bike but I work long days, have two small kids and the wife works shifts in the hospital so the turbo is often my only option. My old one did the trick but sounded like a skillsaw. The Vortex is a serious piece of kit. I'm actually looking forward to suffering on it.

    Bless you Daxotar for you have sinned
    On balance you are forgiven but as a penance you have to read a Wiggins book and look at a picture of Sean Kelly once a day.
    Now go with the grace of the cycling Gods and get out doors when you can


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,368 ✭✭✭Daroxtar


    RobFowl wrote: »
    Bless you Daxotar for you have sinned
    On balance you are forgiven but as a penance you have to read a Wiggins book and look at a picture of Sean Kelly once a day.
    Now go with the grace of the cycling Gods and get out doors when you can

    I'll be up Kippure on Sunday morning, bright and early in nowt but shorts and a pic of Seanie sellotaped to my stem. ;)


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,464 ✭✭✭jamesd


    Daroxtar wrote: »
    OK, just spent the last couple of hours setting up and playing with my new toy. Like Koobcam above, I got a Tacx Vortex Smart. I went for the "fully connected" one as I don't have a suitable Tablet so I'm running the VR and training programs from my laptop. I got it for €389 from Rose. If sold separately, the turbo, advanced TTS software and Ant+ dongle would have been close to €500. I needed the dongle too as my other one is an old USB1 and couldn't handle Zwift.
    Took a while to get set up and installed properly, a bit of fiddling around with drivers and conflicts with Garmin but eventually got going.

    First impressions are very positive. I did a quick spin onthe mountain terrain on the TACX software and the Turbo was very responsive. It felt realistic, it was unbelievably quiet compared to my old one and when it ramped up to full resistance it was tough going. It's supposed to be a realistic simulation up to 7%, it felt plenty for what I'll be using it for.

    Playing around with it, I logged into strava and was able to download GPX files of rides and segments that I've done and want to do. If I pay extra for the Google Earth licence I can ride routes in Street view- maybe a gimmick but could also be a good training tool.

    I had a quick look at the other features built in, the Catalyst training program looks good so that's one to think about and there's a decent collection of RLV videos available from Tacx, and a whole load more user created ones on different websites.
    The TTS software also allows the turbo to be controlled by Kinomap, Bkool, Trainerroad and some other 3Rd party programs.
    There's a load more features I've yet to suss out but if I find anything interesting I'll post it here.

    Finally I'd just like to say that nothing beats getting out on the bike but I work long days, have two small kids and the wife works shifts in the hospital so the turbo is often my only option. My old one did the trick but sounded like a skillsaw. The Vortex is a serious piece of kit. I'm actually looking forward to suffering on it.

    Looking to purchase a smart turbo myself , mainly for zwift. I have an ANT + usb dongle as I use a non smart trainer with zwift already. Would the T2180 be the best value for that price range or is there other models I should look at?


  • Moderators, Science, Health & Environment Moderators Posts: 11,669 Mod ✭✭✭✭RobFowl


    jamesd wrote: »
    Looking to purchase a smart turbo myself , mainly for zwift. I have an ANT + usb dongle as I use a non smart trainer with zwift already. Would the T2180 be the best value for that price range or is there other models I should look at?

    I see the words but they make no sense ;)


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