Can I use a laptop adapter to power Wahoo Kickr?

Triathlon Forum
1

I picked up a Kickr for cheap but it needs a new power adapter. Yes, I know I can order one on-line (and likely will).

In the mean time, I see that Laptop power adapters have the same plug. Specs are different, and I’m wondering what’s fine / what’s not fine to to.

-I see the kickr runs off of a 12V, 5A, 60W power adapter.
-I can grab a bunch of used laptop power adaptors in the electronic recycling bin at work. Most laptop adaptors I have run off of 19.5V 3.5-4.7A and 65-90W.

Let me know your thoughts!

2

It will work fantastically for blowing up the Kickr.

3

Ok… can you explain a little more? Any insights as to why you came to this conclusion. Not saying you’re wrong, but rather I want to learn why you’ve come to this conclusion.

I assume that the higher Voltage rating is the key limiting factor (?).

thanks.

4

The power adapter specs must match voltage exactly, and meet the minimums for wattage and amperage. Also, you need to confirm the polarity of the plug-- I have seen a few funky adapters in which the positive and negative were the reverse of common convention.

Unless you are confident in using a voltmeter and reading specs of an alternate adapter, I would go with the Wahoo.

All of the laptop adapters in my household are high voltage (20V), and those would definitely fry a Wahoo that was only expecting 12V.

5

ya, those numbers actually mean something.

the 12V is a MUST. the 5A is a minimum, the xW is just math (VxA)

so you need a 12V adapter that supplies at least 5A of current. going over or under on the Voltage will damage your Kickr.

6

Thanks guys! This is the informed answer I was looking for.

I suppose I am put off a little that the cost of a replacement adapter is so high!

I have been able to identify a couple of sources for 12V 5A 60W coaxial adapters and I do have access to a voltmeter. …however, I still might go for the wahoo adapter if I’m not confident.

7

Plenty of cheap (<$10) 12V adapters on ebay. Unfortunately, there is no universal plug so you need to make sure you get the correct size or be ready to change it out.

8

Thanks. I’m pretty sure I’ve found suitable adapter locally for $15 and I’ll check it out after work.

I’m also happy to see that coaxial plug polarity is generally easy (visually identified) on these adapters. It looks like the typical polarity (and that of the kickr) is positive centre, negative surround.

Thanks for the help guys.