I’ve ridden the Kickr Core a heck of a lot in 2024, thanks to a particularly wet summer, but I’m still absolutely loving it. It’s inexpensive – especially so right now, with this Cyber Monday deal – quiet, unobtrusive, accurate and reliable. It also provides a ride feel that’s so convincing I honestly don’t miss the slightly heavier flywheel of its pricier, big brother, the Kickr. Okay, it doesn’t carry momentum quite so well, but that's really not a biggie.
In fact, the lighter Kickr Core is more portable, making it easier to tidy out of sight, which is a bonus in a shared household. The substantial difference between the two is price, with the Kickr typically more than twice as expensive as the Kickr Core. It's also widely compatible, so fitting your bike shouldn't be a problem.
So, is the feature set bargain basement too? Not at all. Power maxes out at 1,800 watts, which is more than many WorldTour sprinters can generate. If that’s not sufficient I recommend you sign a pro contract and get given a better specced machine for free!
Connectivity is broad. It includes ANT+, Bluetooth, ANT+ FE-C, with near-instantaneous setup on a wide variety of supported devices including smartphones, tablets and Apple TV. Compatible training apps include Wahoo X SYSTM, Zwift, FulGaz, Trainer Road, Rouvy and BKOOL.
Accuracy is ± 2%, which is more than sufficient for most needs, and I found both ERG and SIM modes work authentically and faultlessly in Zwift, the platform I’ve been riding the most this year.
Compatibility is a strong point. The Kickr Core will work with pretty much any road, gravel or mountain bike with a frame that takes 24", 650c, 700c, 26", 27.5", 29" wheels. For this deal, Wahoo sells 8 – 9 – 10 – 11 or 12-speed cassettes as optional extras, or you can simply install the one that came with your bike.
Specs
- Maximum Power Output: 1800 Watts
- Maximum Simulated Grade: 16%
- Minimum Simulated Grade: -10%
- Product Weight: 40 lb / 18 kg
- Drivetrain: Belt Drive
- Resistance Type: Electromagnetic
- Power Accuracy: +/-2%
- Connectivity: ANT+, ANT+ FE-C, and up to three Bluetooth Connections
- KICKR CORE smart trainer can be used with your own cassette or you can purchase one from Wahoo.
- Hub Types: 130/135mm QR, 12x142, and 12x148 Thru Axle
- Adapters: Includes 130/135mm QR adapter & hub spacer, 12x142/148 adapter & hub spacer, 1.8mm cassette spacer
- Maximum Rider Weight: 250 lb / 113 kg
