Wahoo Fitness Kickr Core Review

The Kickr Core is reliable, powerful, simple to get set up. With a maximum power output of 1800 watts, it's more than enough for serious training at a more wallet-friendly price point.

Performance Comparison

The only untis that genuinely outperform the Kickr Core cost twice as much or more. We think the Core's versatility and ease of use make it a good option for most riders.

Connectivity and Power Accuracy

The Kickr Core uses the usual bike trainer protocols: ANT+, ANT + FE-C, and Bluetooth. It is equipped to handle three Bluetooth connections. Setup and firmware updates work through the Wahoo Fitness app, which is easy to use. We also tested the trainer on Wahoo SYSTM, Wahoo's training app that offers training plans, virtual rides and workouts. We had a good experience on the app, but still prefer other options like Zwift. We found the Core was very easy to use and integrate with Zwift, with no connectivity issues across the various protocols we tested.

Wahoo claims power accuracy to be +/- 2%, and that's about what we experienced when compared to our Favero Assimoa Duo power meter pedals. While that isn't as accurate as higher-end models, it's more than enough for casual Zwifting and serious training. We did note some more significant variations during short, high-output sprints. That isn't unusual for most trainers, although we found it happened more with the Core than more expensive direct-drive units. Similarly, we noticed a slight increase in power variation on longer rides as the unit got hotter. We're nit-picking and comparing this unit to ones with a higher stated accuracy and price point. Compared to similarly priced trainers, the Core is excellent.

Finally, Wahoo has released a firmware that allows the Core to be used with Zwift Play controllers. That means the Core can be used for virtual shifting in Zwift. To do so, connect the Zwift Play controllers and put your chain in the middle of the cassette. You'll then be able to use the Play controllers to shift in the game virtually. The trainer changes resistance rather than you changing gears.

Road Feel

The Core stands out among entry-level direct drive trainers for its realistic road feel. Only a few trainers outperformed it in this category, and they were all premium models. The 12-pound flywheel does an impressive job of simulating road feel in Sim mode, where changes to resistance are smooth while riding in Zwift, although not as imperceptible as higher-end units.

Power ramping in ERG mode intervals is smooth and well-timed. Accuracy was on par with competitors, although we did notice a slight overshoot at the beginning of some intervals, particularly when we were fatigued. The Core has a max power of 1800 watts and can simulate 16% grades. Both are more than enough for most riders. However, we found that the pedal stroke became very choppy at grades over roughly 14%, with uneven resistance. Other users have reported similar issues, typically when using maximum resistance settings. If we're being honest, it's not something we're concerned about. You should consider a premium option if you're strong enough to ride grades that steep or push 1800 watts regularly. The rest of us rarely approach that output, so it's not an issue we have to deal with regularly.

The Kickr Core stands out for its road feel, especially considering its price point. Only premium trainers costing significantly more can compete in this area.

Design

The Kickr Core scored high marks for design. It is simple, sturdy, and fairly compact. While the legs double as a handle, they are also cumbersome when moving the trainer around.

With the simple addition of a well-placed handle, this could be a much more portable trainer. Like most direct-drive trainers, the Core doesn't collapse for easy storage. While it is easier to slide out of the way and is much lighter than some other competitors, a handle would be nice.

Wahoo ships the trainer with your option of 8 through 12 speed cassettes (or no cassette at all). It fits 130/135mm quick release and 12x142/148 thru-axle. However, it's worth noting that the Kickr Core (or any Kickr) is incompatible with Trek's Thru-skew standard.

The Wahoo Kickr Core is a practical and robust trainer that prioritizes functionality over portability. This, combined with its quiet operation, user-friendly design, and attractive price tag, makes it a compelling choice for cyclists looking for a high-value indoor trainer.

Setup

Setting up the Kickr Core is relatively simple, made easier for first-time users by the clear instructions on the box's QR code.

Since the Kickr Core shipped came with a pre-mounted cassette that you chose, you'll only need to mount the legs (just a few bolts) and ensure you have the right axle adapter before you mount your bike, plug in the trainer, and ride. We did note that the adapters fell out more easily in this trainer than in others and that their labeling was poor.

As mentioned earlier, the Wahoo app is simple and easy to use. Connecting to a phone or tablet is easy, and you can push firmware updates as soon as the trainer is plugged in.

Portability

To assess a trainer's portability, we focus on its ease of transport and storage. This includes factors like foldability, weight, ease of transport, and ease of storing.

The Core isn't the best choice for a portable trainer. That's for two reasons: first, it lacks a handle, and second, it doesn't collapse to make a smaller footprint. At 40 pounds, it isn't the lightest premium trainer either. You can't fit this trainer into a backpack, and it's not ideal for toting around to races, although you could if you had to.

Should You Buy the Kickr Core?

The Kickr Core is an excellent, affordable direct-drive option. It packs many premium features into a well-made, dependable, and high-performing package. As long as you're not concerned about portability or perfect accuracy, this is the trainer we recommend to most people buying a smart trainer for the first time.

What Other Bike Trainer Should You Consider?