Advice for the technology-challenged --NM

[bjf]

I'm intrigued by the new Kickr Bike. If I got one, I'd want to ride virtual courses. However, I don't really understand what I'd need to do that. I do get that I'd need an app, but what about the hardware? Phone, tablet, TV -- what would I need?

DC Rainmaker has a great explanation.

[Blown Reek]

That is the ultimate dedicated Zwift bike. Holy sh it, that thing's cool.

But to answer your question, you'd need an iPhone (or equivalent), a TV (because if you're going to get this you shouldn't cheap out and Zwift in front of a computer), and Apple TV.

[makoti]

Originally Posted by Blown Reek

That is the ultimate dedicated Zwift bike. Holy sh it, that thing's cool.

But to answer your question, you'd need an iPhone (or equivalent), a TV (because if you're going to get this you shouldn't cheap out and Zwift in front of a computer), and Apple TV.

I honestly haven't looked at it. It is apple only? I have a kickr that works like a champ with Windows, Android, and Chromecast. A modern computer (no Pentium II's) with a good graphics card, and a fast internet connection are the big ones. That's to do Zwift & the like. To just use the bike with virtual routes or workouts loaded to your computer, the internet connection is less critical.

[Mikej]

I run an I pad pro with Zwift and Training peaks pro or whatever (this allows me to move workouts and better view my plans etc) and have a lightning to HDMI i run to a 50" tv with a Roku box. I switch around because it can become tedious spending time in the basement...

[AngryScientist]

wow, i hadnt looked at these - but that is a cool indoor training machine.

the price sounds crazy, but considering that it is the equivalent cost of a nice mid-range road bike, and some cyclists spend a lot of time indoors in the offseason and even in season to get training in, it wouldnt be too much of a stretch to justify for the right person.

it would be amazing to be able to join a gym or club that had a studio full of these to train on.

[LJohnny]

My main concern with a machine of this caliber would be the refresh rate for the indoor trainers. Some companies are running 2 year cycle? So this would obsolete in a short period.
Also, if it breaks, you have to wait for a service tech to travel? That sounds like an expensive repair.
I like the idea a lot, in fact the Tacx Neo looks cool as well.
Several companies are coming out with dedicated indoor training bikes.
Basically I wish they all had a “swappable” trainer core that could be upgraded for at least a few generations of the product, otherwise, besides the expense, this is a welcome line of products