Tacx Vortex Smart

[WestyCarl]

A Jan 4th resolution is more structure training (previously just ridden 5-10 hrs a week as I feel) using Traineroad.

I'm errring towards the Tacx Vortex Smart as a trainer, before I commit does anyone have any comments or alternatives alternatives? I don't want to spend a huge amount but also want something that will last a while.

[stuarthat]

I have been using tacx I genius for around 4 years and it is very good, especially organising races vr ect the only issues I have had have been pc related nice piece of kit .

[Jasper3.0]

I have one and have used it for the last couple of years.

First one broke and was replaced under warranty and had been 100% reliable since. Only issue I have is the slope limit of 7%. So if you are a racing snake (I am not) you may want to look at one of their more powerful ones.

I use it with a Mac and ant+ dongle on Zwift as well as the Tacx films on a iPad. I have a friend who runs one via a pc using the Tacx tts software and it is a little more troublesome, but works okay. Needs a powerful pc though.

[upsidedownmark]

Got one, does what it says on the tin. Don't expect the power to be terribly accurate - worse still it's not particularly repeatably wonky either, but it's ballpark.

WRT slope limit, I really don't understand why folks get so exercised about that. It's only the limit at which it will give you a realistic wheel speed for the slope (largely speaking why the heck does that matter?!) Stick the bike in it's biggest gear, wind the resistance up to max, and if you still need more resistance, start looking for a pro contract.

[WestyCarl]

Ordered the Vortex smart, thanks.

I'll be using the Trainerroad app on my iPhone, for this setup do I need an ANT+ iPhone dongle (plus converter)? Trainerroad seem to think so, but the TACX website says it can broadcast the same info over Bluetooth.

[Gren]

Bluetooth is fine. Running Trainerroad on both Android and Iphones in our house via BT from a KickR. No need for anything extra at the phone end

[WestyCarl]

Thanks (£50 saved for bike upgrades )

[ALawson]

Did you get this one?

http://www.halfords.com/cycling/turbo-trainers/tra...

[WestyCarl]

Yup, was looking at the Vortex smart but there is very little difference between them for £100.

I figure if I outgrow the 800W capacity then my pro contract will supply a new one

[ALawson]

Is the Vortex smart the one from wiggle at £300?

I am planning to use it with TR using Vectors on Ant+ to control it. Must be easier and safer than trying to do 500w short sprints/efforts on rollers.

[WestyCarl]

Yup.