Wahoo KICKR BIKE SHIFT Review

Although the KICKR BIKE SHIFT shares its proud name with the existing KICKR BIKE, both smart bikes are mostly different from each other structurally and technically. This concerns the frame construction, the materials used, the flywheel, the drive system, as well as the electronic control; only the saddle and the handlebars have remained the same.

In terms of appearance, it is noticeable that the KICKR BIKE SHIFT has thinner frame tubes and therefore looks overall more slender. This not only affects the total weight and the associated production and shipping costs but also improves ergonomics: With the KICKR BIKE, the wide top tube often received criticism because depending on the rider's morphology, thighs, knees, or calves could rub against it. The newly designed top tube is especially in this area much more pleasing and aligns more with the proportions of conventional bicycles. But also, the levers to fix the geometry settings have received a slimmer design.

The wiring of the electronic components has been completely revised; instead of the previous tangled cables in the front, there is now a magnetic connector. This connection carries both the general power supply and the shifting signals of the shifters. In addition, it houses the status lights for wireless communication. Although the magnets used are quite strong, it might be advisable to put a cable tie around the connector and the existing rubber band. This ensures that the connection is not interrupted by accidental bumping or a pulled towel.

At the rear, the black glossy and nearly twice as large drive and flywheel system sits, which includes an electronic brake. From the perspective of the KICKR BIKE SHIFT, this is a complete redevelopment that functionally resembles the Wahoo KICKR Smart trainers more and, for example, does not offer a descent simulation. However, this feature is required by users of Zwift and other platforms to maintain high speeds on steep descents.

Regardless, the new drive system should not be considered cheap or inferior. On the contrary, it comes with several advantages - the biggest upfront: It enables a realistic riding feel and is absolutely silent, both during pedaling and coasting.

The Wahoo KICKR BIKE SHIFT with its new brake and belt drive system offers a realistic riding experience within your own four walls. As with the KICKR BIKE that's 1,000 euros more expensive, Wahoo's new arrival responds lightning-fast to inclines and power changes and doesn't let you hit the proverbial wall on bigger power jumps. There is also nothing to criticize about the accuracy and the zero-point calibration. The resistance remains constant and the power values are consistent.

At first glance, the 36 kg heavy KICKR BIKE SHIFT may seem a bit more delicate than its big brother, but thanks to its construction and adjustable feet on the Wahoo training mat, it stands firm like a rock in the surf. Even though the handlebars still allow a bit too much flex in the clamp area, the smart bike overall feels even more solid and robust, which we attribute to the elimination of the mechanism for physical incline simulation.

All those who can do without this physical change of gradient, the descent simulation, the LEDs for the gear display, as well as the race mode, in which the performance data is transmitted up to 10 times faster via Wi-Fi, will find in the Wahoo KICKR BIKE SHIFT a perfect indoor training companion. The programmable virtual shifting, the adjustable gear ratio configuration, and the repeatedly mentioned extremely quiet noise levels complete the riding experience.