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Start for freeEurobike 2024: The Hub of Indoor Cycling Innovation
Eurobike 2024, the world's largest bicycle trade show, has once again proven to be the epicenter of cycling technology and innovation. With 1,800 exhibitors showcasing their latest products, the event offers a comprehensive look at the future of cycling, particularly in the realm of indoor training and smart technology. This article delves into the most exciting announcements and releases in the world of smart trainers, frames, and indoor cycling tech.
Elite's New Lineup: Gusto 2, Avante, and Square
Elite Gusto 2: The Upgraded Flagship
Elite has unveiled its new flagship direct drive trainer, the Gusto 2. Set to be available in August for Europe and September for the rest of the world, this trainer brings several key updates to its predecessor:
- Built-in Wi-Fi using Direct Connect
- Included 12-speed 105 cassette
- 3-year subscription to the My E Training app (up from 12 months)
The Gusto 2 retains the impressive features of its predecessor, including:
- Less than 1% margin of error in power accuracy
- Auto-calibration
- Heart rate and cadence bridging
- Race mode (Fast Track)
- 10 Hz reporting
- 7.2 kg flywheel
Priced at $1,199 US, the Gusto 2 aims to solidify Elite's position in the high-end trainer market.
Elite Avante: The New Mid-Range Contender
Elite is expanding its smart trainer lineup with the introduction of the Avante. This new product, available in August for Europe and September for other markets, can be considered a second-generation smart trainer. Key features include:
- OTS (Optical Torque Sensor) for power measurement
- +/- 1% accuracy
- 18% maximum gradient
- 4 kg flywheel
- Fast Track (10 Hz race mode)
- Heart rate and cadence bridging
- Auto-calibration
- Built-in odometer
- Wi-Fi connectivity with Direct Connect
A unique feature of the Avante is its hidden compartment for adapters, including a disc brake adapter. Priced at $849 US and €749 in Europe, the Avante positions itself as a compelling mid-range option.
Elite Square: The Versatile Smart Frame
Elite's third major announcement is the Square smart frame. This product addresses the top three requests users had for the Zwift Ride:
- Belt-driven system
- Adjustable crank lengths
- Support for the Elite Riser gradient simulator
Additional features of the Square include:
- Standard Q factor of 150 mm
- Platform-agnostic virtual shifting
- Compatibility with any trainer (not just Elite)
- Connection bridging and gear adjustment capabilities
Priced at €1,500 for the frame alone (trainer not included), the Square is positioned as a premium option in the smart frame market. Availability is slated for December in Europe and January 2025 for the rest of the world.
S Plus T3 Smart Trainer
S Plus has introduced their T3 smart trainer at Eurobike 2024. While not much information was provided about the company's relationship with reviewers, the T3 appears to be a solid performer based on its specifications:
- 2400W maximum power
- +/- 1% power accuracy
- 27% maximum gradient
- No calibration required
However, it's worth noting that Wi-Fi support was not mentioned in the specifications, which could be considered a drawback in today's connected training environment.
TrueKinetics Virtual Shifters
TrueKinetics has launched virtual shifters for their TrueTrainer range. Priced at €200 and initially available in limited quantities, these shifters offer:
- Extremely fast virtual gear changes
- Platform independence (works with any software)
- Direct communication with the trainer
Early testing suggests these shifters could significantly enhance the indoor riding experience for TrueTrainer users.
Jet Black Victory: The Game-Changer
Perhaps the most significant announcement at Eurobike 2024 is the Jet Black Victory trainer. This new product from the makers of the Volt and Volt 2 is poised to disrupt the market with its impressive feature set and competitive pricing. Key specifications include:
- Virtual shifting for Zwift
- 10 Hz race mode
- Built-in Wi-Fi
- Auto-calibration
- USB-C connectivity
- +/- 2% accuracy
- 16% maximum gradient
- 1800W maximum power
- Heart rate bridging
- Built-in odometer
The Victory will be one of the first Zwift Ready certified trainers, supporting the Zwift protocol and virtual shifting, making it compatible with the new Zwift Ride frame.
What sets the Victory apart is its pricing:
- US: $399
- Australia: $749
- Europe: €449
These prices include the Cog version 2 and a Zwift Click. At this price point and with its comprehensive feature set, the Victory has the potential to significantly impact the smart trainer market.
Market Impact and Analysis
The announcements at Eurobike 2024 signal a shift in the smart trainer market. We're seeing a trend towards feature-rich trainers at more accessible price points. The Jet Black Victory, in particular, is poised to disrupt the market with its combination of advanced features and competitive pricing.
This trend is likely to benefit consumers, as it pushes established brands to innovate and reconsider their pricing strategies. The days of the "Kickr vs. Neo" debate may be numbered, as new entrants like Jet Black offer compelling alternatives at lower price points.
It's important to note that this isn't simply a race to the bottom in terms of pricing. Companies like Jet Black have designed their products with specific price points in mind, ensuring that necessary margins are maintained. This approach suggests that we're seeing a maturation of the market, where efficiency in production and marketing allows for more competitive pricing without sacrificing quality or features.
The Future of Indoor Cycling Tech
As we look to the future of indoor cycling technology, several trends are becoming apparent:
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Increased Connectivity: Wi-Fi integration is becoming standard, improving the stability and ease of connections between trainers and training platforms.
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Virtual Shifting: The adoption of virtual shifting technologies is likely to increase, offering more realistic and engaging indoor riding experiences.
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Platform Agnosticism: There's a growing emphasis on compatibility across different training platforms, giving users more flexibility in their choice of software.
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Advanced Features at Lower Price Points: As demonstrated by the Jet Black Victory, we can expect to see more trainers offering high-end features at mid-range prices.
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Smart Frames: The introduction of products like the Elite Square suggests a growing market for standalone smart frames that can work with various trainers.
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Focus on User Experience: Features like auto-calibration, quick gear changes, and improved accuracy are becoming increasingly important as the market matures.
Conclusion
Eurobike 2024 has showcased the rapid pace of innovation in the indoor cycling market. From Elite's comprehensive lineup to Jet Black's market-disrupting Victory, it's clear that manufacturers are pushing the boundaries of what's possible in indoor training technology.
As these new products make their way to market, we can expect to see increased competition, potentially leading to better options for consumers at various price points. The emphasis on features like Wi-Fi connectivity, virtual shifting, and platform compatibility suggests a future where indoor training is more immersive, realistic, and accessible than ever before.
For cycling enthusiasts and indoor training aficionados, the coming months promise to be an exciting time as these new technologies become available. As always, it will be crucial to see how these products perform in real-world conditions and long-term use, but the initial announcements from Eurobike 2024 give plenty of reason for optimism about the future of indoor cycling technology.
As the market continues to evolve, we can look forward to even more innovations that bridge the gap between indoor and outdoor cycling experiences, making training more effective, engaging, and enjoyable for riders of all levels.
Article created from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZmzL3HcpOk
