KICKR MOVE 2023/24
The KICKR MOVE is mounted on special rolling wheels that sit on a fixed rail that is slightly curved upwards at the front and back. This design allows the trainer to move forward and backward when the rider changes the output, adjusts the seating position, or takes different positions on the saddle. The curvature of the track uses gravity to control the movement.
Small changes in the seating position create slight movements, while intensive sprints or standing while climbing a hill lead to a greater range of motion. The KICKR MOVE also features a lock switch that deactivates the movement and stabilizes the trainer, which facilitates mounting the bike and transport.
htmlTo use the KICKR MOVE with an optional KICKR CLIMB, the so-called KICKR CLIMB Base Adapter is required for 49.99 Euros. This plastic adapter is attached to the base of the KICKR CLIMB and follows exactly the same arc shape as the KICKR MOVE. As a result, both trainer components move in sync, preventing excessive strain or even damage to the trainer and bicycle, and together with the Wahoo KICKR HEADWIND offer an unparalleled indoor cycling experience.
Technical Differences to the KICKR V6
To give away a bit of the conclusion of our test: With the exception of the mechanism for forward-backward movement, the resulting extra weight, and the higher purchase price, the new KICKR MOVE is technically identical to the KICKR V6. It has the same electromagnetic resistance, the same high accuracy, and the full range of features. Thanks to the additional forward-backward movement, however, it offers significantly increased sitting comfort.
KICKR Generational Check
KICKR MOVE | KICKR V6 | |
Power Accuracy* | +/- 1% | +/- 1% |
Resistance | Electromagnetic | Electromagnetic |
Max. Resistance | 2,200 Watts | 2,200 Watts |
Max. Incline | 20% | 20% |
Min. Incline | 10% | 10% |
Lateral Movement | yes (AXIS supports and additional lateral movement freedom) | yes (AXIS supports) |
Forward/Backward Movement Function | yes (20 cm) | no |
Movement Lock | yes | no |
Cassette Included | yes (11-speed with 11-28T) | |
Drive | Belt Drive | Belt Drive |
Auto-Calibration | yes | yes |
Connectivity | ANT+, ANT+ FE-C, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Direct Connect Cable Connection* | |
Climb Compatibility | yes (CLIMB BASE Adapter required) | yes |
Bluetooth Multi-Peripheral | yes | yes |
Data Collection | Speed, Distance, Power and Cadence | |
ERG Easy Ramp | yes | yes |
Odometer | yes | yes |
Race Mode | yes | yes |
Weight | 29 kg | 22 kg |
Max. Rider Weight | 113 kg | 113 kg |
Price | € 1,599.99 | € 1,299.99 |
* Including software algorithm for zero point calibration
** Wahoo Direct Connect adapter required
Heavier, more expensive, optionally glides forward and backward.
The differences from the V6 in a nutshellAdvertising Clip & Data Sheets
Unboxing and Setup
Wahoo has also worked on their unboxing experience and given the KICKR MOVE a new packaging. If you place the box on the floor with the long side down and open it on the correct side (marked with "OPEN"), the heavy smart trainer slides out relatively easily. Although 29 kg is still a lot and the friction of cardboard on cardboard is a beast, it is definitely a thousand times easier to get the trainer out of the box than from the previous foam packaging.
Everyone who has treated themselves to a Wahoo Trainer for the first time should ideally scan the included QR code and let the "Product Guide" video guide them step by step through the setup.
We have documented the installation and configuration for you in photographs.
Wahoos offizielles Produkt-Video
Adjusting the individual fit
Setting up and commissioning are a breeze. Once the Wahoo KICKR MOVE is positioned and aligned at its final location, all that is needed is to adjust the height of the smart trainer to the wheel size of the bike. As usual, there are three sizes to choose from: for 650B, 700c, and 29er MTBs. In combination with the height adjustment of both AXIS feet, there should always be a setting to align the saddle as usual.
The KICKR MOVE still comes with an 11-speed cassette from the factory, as the Americans argue that the majority of their buyers are on 11 cogs. However, those who train exclusively structured workouts in ERG mode will also find a quiet gear with a 12-speed chain. To complete training or races in SIM mode, we strongly recommend switching to a suitable 12-speed cassette.
Afterward, we connect the bike with the smartphone, install the latest firmware updates, and configure the power meter and other settings according to our preferences. Additionally, we establish a secure connection with the Wi-Fi (or plug an optional LAN cable into the Direct-Connect port) and pair the KICKR MOVE with the Wahoo SYSTM training app.
In Practical Test
As usual, the KICKR MOVE offers training resistances of up to 2,200 watts and enables inclines of up to 20%. That hasn't changed in recent years and there really is no reason for it to. The two modes ERG & SIM have also remained the same, which have gained popularity especially in the virtual worlds of ZWIFT & Co.
ERG Mode: Setting of a specific power level - e.g., 200 watts. During rides or workouts, the preset training resistance is constant and even regardless of the chosen gear ratio, cadence, or virtual topography. Pedal, sweat, done.
SIM Mode: Simulation of a predetermined topography (inclines and descents) as outdoors - e.g., a 10% gradient. In this mode, it is necessary to change the gear ratio or work on the cadence according to the desired training zone, as the training resistance is not fixed but the angle of incline is. When riding virtual courses and races, shifting is constant, which is why the cassette must definitely match the derailleur.
KICKR MOVE with integrated two-axis movement
A new addition is the complex mechanism for the forward-backward movement of the trainer's body. But even though the setup and mounting might give the impression of a very shaky affair, this feature has significantly more positive than negative effects in practice.
Thus, the trainer moves minimally forward and backward while seated and during normal pedaling, which actually comes closer to outdoor riding, as the many small movements caused by subtle shifting of body weight reduce saddle pressure and lessen fatigue during longer workouts - in combination with the slightly increased freedom of movement of the AXIS-Feet to the sides, a successful optimization. I personally got used to it after just a few minutes and wouldn't want to miss this feature at all during my ERG rides.
However, a sudden change between sitting and standing can lead to a much greater (pendulum) movement, which feels disruptive and by no means realistic. But over time, one develops a sense for it and is able to significantly minimize drastic weight shifts. Nevertheless, harder sprints feel somewhat unnatural, as the bike cannot tilt as far to the sides as it does in the real world. On the other hand, it tends to slide forward or backward.
In the end, it is difficult to give a clear recommendation for the KICKR MOVE. As with most more heavily rocking "Rocker Plates," the actual benefit lies less in wild all-out sprints than in long training rides in the saddle. In our opinion, many endurance riders will appreciate the increased comfort, while HIT athletes will deactivate the feature from time to time.
Nevertheless, even hardcore trainers can opt for the KICKR MOVE, provided they are indifferent to the higher purchase price, because once the lock is active, they have a fully-fledged, quiet, stiff KICKR V6 smart trainer with the option to enjoy the recovery ride even more after the race weekend.
A more realistic and pleasant riding experience for many, but not for all.
KICKR MOVE with integrated two-axis movementVideo: The Wahoo KICKR MOVE in the 169K Review
Martin Granadia, 169K, on the MOVE mechanism: "Together with the lateral movement through the AXIS feet, this results in a more comfortable and realistic feeling when riding on the seemingly rigid indoor trainers. The functionality is fun and enjoyable. "Realism" is, however, a matter of definition, and of course, one should not expect exactly the same impressions one has when riding outside. For me, such features are an increase in fun and enjoyment during roller training because only if it's fun, then you will actually sit on it during winter."
Conclusion
Wahoo KICKR MOVE | |
---|---|
Model Year: | 2023/24 |
Price: | € 1,599.99 |
+ | Includes space-saving Rocker Plate "light"-feeling |
+ | More realistic riding feeling |
+ | Increased seating comfort |
+ | Resistance power |
+ | Accuracy |
+ | Quiet and low vibration |
+ | Quick to set up |
o | Heavy |
- | €300 more expensive than the technically identical KICKR |
- | Tends to sway during HITs and sprints |
BB-Verdict: | MOVE "on" for a realistic riding feeling with more comfort and "off" during HIT & Co. |
Compared with bulky Rocker Plates, which often rock more than one might like, the KICKR MOVE offers a successful compromise in terms of price, space requirements, and realistic riding feeling. Nevertheless, this smart trainer is a comparatively large and heavy device that is best left in the place where it was set up.
For those who do not engage in too clumsy movements and prefer base rather than high-intensity interval training, sitting on the MOVE is less cramped and benefits from a significantly higher seating comfort. Thanks to the still balanced, secure feeling of being firmly clamped to the smart trainer, one can fully concentrate on one's training without having to fight against excessive rocking movements.
Anyone who can do without the sophisticated MOVE mechanism should not hesitate to opt for the KICKR V6, which is €300 cheaper. Both smart trainers respond precisely to changes in gradient and power and do not let you hit the proverbial wall even with larger jumps in watts. There is also nothing to criticize about the accuracy and zero-point calibration. The resistance remains constant, and the wattage values are consistent. In addition, both devices are almost silent. The only noise that can be heard from the MOVE when locked is from the drive and the bicycle's derailleur.