Tacx vs Computrainer (2)

experience, pros and cons of each…?

No comparison, just get the computrainer or Kickr. For info read DCRainmakers reviews on indoortrainers.

which model tacx?

I own 2 Tacx Bushido trainers (one in Europe - one in the US). The only feature I like about them is the fact that they are cheap (in Europe) and wireless.
That being said: the software of Tacx is pretty worthless (I invested in he trainer software but it is unusable and very unstable), the control unit freezes quite often (both my Bushido’s) when you change resistance and the trainer itself is not high qulity built (pieces coming loose, very prone to oxidation etc).
Bottomline: it is an ok trainer if you only use the basic features and if you want a completely wireless device. Also, when correctly calibrated, the power readings are quite accurate.

In terms of built, a computrainer looks a lot more durable than the tacx. I don’t own one so cannot comment on function.

Since 2 months I have a Wahoo Kickr: this is a hell of a great trainer. I use it in combination with Trainerroad software and so far I like it very much. Stable, accurate and solidly built.

Just my 2 cents.
Sam
samgyde.com

experience, pros and cons of each…?

I keep getting flats on my computrainer after 30 miles, so there must be something wrong with it. :wink:

OK - all kidding aside, I have been using the same computrainer since 1997. I upgraded the controller to PC version from the Nintendo version. The hardware has been flawless and unbelievably durable. Never had any issues with it. I have simple needs and either use erg mode, racermate1, or perfpro. I am very happy with my computrainer.

I ride a Computrainer lab at least 3 to 4 times a week all year round. Have had it for almost 3 years and it is still working great. So from a durability standpoint, Computrainers are pretty solid. You’ll want a fairly modern computer, though, if you want to run the better software for the Computrainer (like Ergvideos and Sufferfest on trainerroad).

Why not give the CycleOps PowerBeam Pro a try? It comes in a wireless Ant+ and Bluetooth version. I own two of them and they work very well with TrainerRoad, Peripedal and the other software packages out there. Its cheaper then a Computrainer and Kickr and is from a company with one of the best customer service departments in the industry.

Nice. thanks. I kinda thought Computrainer was a little more stable. I will look into Kickr for sure.

When will smart TV’s become compatible with ANT+? :slight_smile: That would be sweet.

I owned a Bushido for 4 years and was running v3 of their software. I sold it last Fall and got a Kickr. Best decision ever. The Tacx software was just way too buggy for regular use. I’d say I had software issues in over 50% of my rides. My friend that owns the same trainer has the same issues. The Kickr is way better in most every way.

i owned a tacx flow for a while and a computrainer and now have a kickr, I have to say the Kickr is my favorite. It’s stable, runs without the rear wheel in place, has a massive flywheel (this is really key), is easy to control with my pc and appears to be very well built. The CT is nice, but it has this barnyard software and wires all over the place. Either one is a good option, the Kickr is my choice for sure though

i have a bushido … i hated because of the terrible software till they released the ipad app … now it is great, i can easily setup my workout intevals on the ipad and it makes me do them. now i’m a fan, though they should open up their ant+ protocol so other developer can write apps for it.

thanks! yea, I was looking at it and it’s pretty stellar. If only it could sync to a big ass tv, it would be even sweeter.

thanks! yea, I was looking at it and it’s pretty stellar. If only it could sync to a big ass tv, it would be even sweeter.

If you stick PC between that “big ass TV” and the trainer you can try our software and see if it works for you. Awesome videos with unmatched quality. Software can control Lynx, Computrainer (latest firmware required) and KICKR.