How To Set Erg Mode On Tacx Neo

It's been just over two months since Tacx announced their NEO 2T smart trainer, the latest in the line of high-end NEO trainers. You may remember back in my launch post, it wasn't all sunshine and unicorns for the new trainer. It, like many trainers in this 2022 indoor training season of new devices, lacked the accuracy I'd await – peculiarly from a top-end unit of measurement. I basically said don't buy it yet.

So Tacx has spent a fair flake of that fourth dimension working and re-working the firmware, and I recall they're finally in a relatively good spot – the indicate where I've got no issues recommending the trainer. Of course, like always, and for whatsoever product, I'll nitpick a few things that could be improved. But on the whole I'm happy to exist using this unit for my rides lately.

In this review I'll dig into what's changed (and whether it's worth an upgrade or skipping a good sale on older versions), as well every bit all the usual details around how well the trainer works with apps, accuracy, and everything else y'all could peradventure ask. Plus, I've had the reward of some DCR Reader feedback over the past few weeks as the NEO 2T is already shipping.

Oh, and finally, as always I utilize devices similar wilderness trails – leave nothing behind. These are media loaner units that go back to Tacx shortly. Y'all can help support the site here by checking out the links at the end of the post (it's already shipping/available). Doing so makes you awesome.

What'south Unlike:

The vast bulk of the changes to the Tacx NEO 2T are internal, non external. In fact, the only external change you'll find is a new 'racing stripe' inset on the back panel of the folding NEO fly. Hither you can see it side by side to the Tacx NEO ane and Tacx NEO 2:

(Left to right: Tacx NEO 1, Tacx NEO 2, Tacx NEO 2T)

But await, before nosotros go there, some super quick stat basics – simply in instance y'all're not familiar:

– Direct drive trainer: This means yous remove your rear wheel
– Flywheel: It has a virtual flywheel up to 125kg, the largest of whatsoever trainer on the market.
– Downhill Drive: This is 1 of only a handful of trainers that drives the rear 'cycle' forward while going downward hills, thus simulating descending inertia.
– Cassette: No Tacx trainers include a cassette, which volition set you dorsum $fifty-$60, plus $x-$20 in tools to install.
– Sound: Identical to the original NEO, substantially silent. Only the sound of your drivetrain is heard, and a very faint hum of internal fans/electronics.
– Handle and Folding: This unit lacks a handle, which continues to make it slightly awkward to motility effectually. It does have foldable legs though for like shooting fish in a barrel storage.
– Protocol Compatibility: ANT+ Atomic number 26-C, ANT+ Ability, Bluetooth Smart Trainer Control, Bluetooth Smart Power
– App Compatibility: Every app out there basically (Zwift, TrainerRoad, Rouvy, Road Grand Tours, SufferFest, Kinomap, etc…)
– Skewer Compatibility: All the skewers and adapters you could ask for: Road 130mm, MTB 135mm, 142x12mm, 148x12mm
– Max Incline: 25% simulated form, the highest of any trainer out at that place
– Max Wattage: ii,200 watts resistance
– Stated Accurateness: < +/-1%
– Power Cable Required: No, it tin operate powered or standalone sans-power.
– Pricing and Availability: $i,399/€ane,299/£1,199 Shipping Already

Now – as for the changes, like they teach you in class schoolhouse, it'south what's inside that matters most. And in this case what matters most is magnets. The company has fabricated a pile of changes internally around the magnets. It's magnet mania. Here's what's different inside at a geeky level:

– Stronger Magnets: This gives it the college torque that eliminates the skid for the vast bulk of riders (including myself)
– Thicker Wiring: This reduces the oestrus output and improves efficiency
– Changing Wiring Topology: This reduces vibrations only as well reduces the sensitivity of manufacturing tolerances
– Skewing of Magnets: This reduces vibrations and sounds
– New Magnet Holder: This helps in manufacturing by increasing position accuracy, but besides reduces vibrations

Similar I said, it's magnet mania.

What does that all mean in real-life? Well, we'll get to that in the Get-go Rides section. But first, let'southward wait at a graph, since again, geeky. This shows you the braking ability of the Tacx NEO 2T versus the NEO2, against your speed. This shows why you could cause 'slip' at depression speeds on the NEO2, as it's more than tripled in those lower scenarios. Some people can apparently all the same cause it to slip, only they'd be pretty powerful folks. I can't exercise it with my power output (up to 1,000w roughly). It's non a direct wattage thing, simply really slow-speed sprints. More on it later.

Merely beyond all this magnet mania, in that location'south a few applied considerations. Start, it'south quieter. At to the lowest degree in theory, frankly – I tin can't tell the divergence in my studio. Perchance if I move the whole setup to the podcast recording room with the soundproofing at present installed on the walls I'll be able to hear it.

The other change coming, but not yet in any firmware, is Cycling Dynamics. That'll give us access to the typical Cycling Dynamics suite of data, though I oasis't tried it still to come across if all the metrics are carried through, or how it stacks up against Garmin Vector iii. Afterward all, those two should match in my mind. And so I'm keen to see how that looks. And for that matter, how it might stack up against Favero Assioma and their recent Cycling Dynamics update as well.

Then, to spoil the rest of the post – would you upgrade an existing NEO trainer? Probably not. Unless that tiny flake of sideslip actually bothers you, I'd keep what I'd got from a NEO trainer standpoint if I already had one. And to that same extent, yous'll meet some occasional sales on the existing Tacx NEO 2 units that came out last year – those are awesome also, and will be getting the Cycling Dynamics update also. So again, go forth. for the right toll.

What's in the box:

Those astute Tacx unboxing geeks out at that place, you might notice the tiny change in wording to the lower correct corner of the box: 'Tacx: A Garmin Company'. Across that, it'due south basically the same rough blueprint as last year's NEO two box.

Once you cleft it open, yous'll notice a skewer and thru-axle adapters, likewise as some paper stuff and a portion of the power string.

Remove the top layer and you've got yourself the trainer folded up inside, besides as the brown box somewhere down in that location with the balance of the power cord.

Additionally, you lot'll find a front wheel block for keeping your bike slightly elevated and direct.  Here'due south all the pieces laid out:

Yous tin can so unfold the trainer to its total and majestically alpine meridian. Seriously, this thing towers over every trainer out there like some dark Star Wars overlord that it is:

Hither's a closer wait at the dorsum of that power cablevision. I include this picture non for you, but for me. Then in a year when I'chiliad trying to figure out which power cable is which, I can find this film and call back.

When I'thou less lazy, I usually cutting out a piece of the paper envelope stuffs and tape it to the ability adapter, and so I know that it's the Tacx NEO 2T. Right now I'yard lazy – it's almost coffee time and I'k gonna need information technology to make it through this review before I gotta get going.

Beyond attaching the cassette as we'll talk over in about 6.2 seconds, there's no assembly required for the NEO 2T.

The Basics & Setup:

All roads on almost all trainers start with adding a cassette. Unless you lot've got a KICKR 2022 or Aristocracy Suito that is. Simply since this isn't that review, we're back in cassette land. So, you'll need to pickup the right type of cassette for your wheel.

I typically purchase Shimano Ultegra cassettes for my trainers (mostly for sound-testing consistency beyond videos), but I've also done a few SRAM ones and whatever else happens to be on sale from the wheel shop. It generally doesn't matter, except sometimes you'll find some of the lower end cassettes (like a Shimano 105) don't quite sound equally serenity as mid to higher-end ones. If you've got a new SRAM AXS bicycle, you'll also need to get a different freehub adapter from Tacx every bit well. Simply since you just spent a boatload of coin on that bike, spending more than money will feel natural to you.

In any case, with a cassette, you'll need two tools. A lockring tool (or lockring + a wrench, in my instance), and a chain whip. In this case, yous need the chain whip since y'all can't get a good grasp on the flywheel.

In one case you've got the cassette on, merely put in place either the quick release skewer or thru-axle adapter (depending on your particular bike). The unit includes a thru-axle adapter set up for 142x12mm & 148x12mm.

Once that'southward done you'll desire to go ahead and plug information technology in:

Now, technically speaking you don't have to plug it in. You can utilise it in the middle of a race warm-up area sans power plug just fine. The just thing yous'll lose is the 'downhill bulldoze' capability, which spins the bicycle forward when y'all descend downwardly hills (to mimic how it works for the bike in real life).  The ability adapter/string is 120/240v, so you lot can use information technology anywhere in the earth if you lot happen to travel with it.

Besides, I observe that pairing is a tiny bit easier since the unit of measurement will go to sleep without a power cable. Of course, yous need to only spin the cranks a few times and you're dorsum in business. Meanwhile, on the left side of the unit you lot'll find the status lights. These are for general power, then one for ANT+ & Bluetooth Smart connectivity.

Subsequently yous've mounted your cycle, you tin can also slide that front wheel-block nether in that location as well.

With that, we're ready to roll. At present, we'll become to app compatibility in a moment, but first let'due south start with the route feel. Like I always say – for me personally, information technology's hard to separate the fact that I'm riding indoors from outdoors. Information technology'southward still a trainer, and I'm however looking at a wall in front of me.  My encephalon can just plow off so much of that.  Withal, much of the road-similar feel is driven by the flywheel, and be it physical or virtual, flywheel sizes tend to be measured in weight.  This impacts inertia and how information technology feels – primarily when you advance or otherwise change acceleration (such as briefly coasting).

All that prefacing washed, the Tacx NEO 2T ranks pretty darn high up at that place in the inertia replication standings. In the same ballpark of the CycleOps Hammer 3 & Wahoo KICKR 2022. Every bit I've noted many times, my bet is that y'all could put different blindfolded people on dissimilar units and they'd all say totally dissimilar things on which i they felt best. Even cycling journalists. Some days I think the KICKR feels best, some days I recollect the NEO feels best. I suspect it's even as nuanced as which exact gearing I'1000 in.

At present given the NEO 2T is a smart trainer, it'll change resistance automatically in a few different ways, primarily driven by different applications/methods.  But most of this all boils down to two core methods:

ERG Style: Setting a specific power level – i.e., 210w.  In this mode, no matter what gearing you use, the trainer will simply stay at 210w (or whatever you set up it to).
Simulation Way: Simulating a specific outdoor form – i.e., ix% incline. In this mode, information technology's but like outdoors in that y'all can change your gearing to brand it easier or harder.  Wattage is non hard-set, only incline levels.

In the case of simulation (aka slope) mode, the Tacx NEO 2T can simulate from 0% to 25% incline – which is bluntly style more than your legs ever desire to deal with. It's also the most of any consumer smart trainer. The Wahoo KICKR & Saris H3 height out at 20%, and the Elite Drivo at 24%.

The second fashion the trainer has is ERG mode.  In that example, the company claims up to 2,2200w of resistance at 40KPH. Although, realistically, you don't care about that. I tin just barely (maybe) break 1,000w for a second or two, and even virtually front of the non-pro pack cyclists aren't going to tiptop i,800w.  The pros would only be just a bit beyond that.  Said differently: Pinnacle numbers don't matter.  Instead, what matters is really a harder metric to make clear – which is the ability to simulate high grades and lower speeds (especially if you lot're a heavier cyclist).

Ane cadre test I do with all trainers though is responsiveness: How quickly does it respond to ERG mode changes? I typically practise that with my 30×30 test via TrainerRoad, though it doesn't really affair what method you apply as long equally you're looking at big shifts in wattage:

In this case, the Tacx NEO 2T responded exceedingly fast. In fact, I've argued for a bit at present that information technology responds too harshly (due to the extra power). Meaning, it's as well good at its job and it feels like running into a brick wall for these types of big shifts in power. Still, that'south more than of a personal opinion than anything. What's more objectively graded is how precisely it hits that shift in power (which is different than power accuracy). In this case, information technology overshoots slightly for these intervals, depending on how careful I am in gearing.

For example, these intervals were all at 404w, so in theory I'd await that outset second (just one second) to be in the ~400-410w ballpark, only the NEO 2T slightly overshoots each fourth dimension for the get-go 2nd to near ~420w. This is, however, a big improvement over back in August, when it was overshooting to 455-460w. To be fair, almost trainers practise some aspect of overshoot. The KICKR does it too (fifty-fifty more than this). So maybe this is me slowly simply surely demanding more and more as time goes on from these companies at these price points. Subsequently all, the Saris H3 nails this nicely (albeit, has other quirks instead). Don't become me wrong, for nearly people, you won't notice. I'm simply not most people (you would have noticed back in August though, that hurts).

Side by side, in that location's ii non-ERG mode features that are worthwhile noting. The first is road feel. This was introduced a few years dorsum on the Tacx NEO 1 unit and continues forward to the NEO two and NEO 2T.  This functionality enables the trainer to replicate the feel of the roads as you lot ride them in the game. Cobblestones will feel like riding on cobblestones. Planks on a boardwalk will feel just similar an bodily boardwalk. It really is fascinating – and has been a draw for the Neo series since it came out:

Now, there's not a ton of training benefit here, per se. Just that's true of many things we exercise on trainers indoors. If it was all almost grooming benefit we'd just exist riding in ERG style every twenty-four hour period on perfectly structured workouts. Instead, we take a wide variety of apps that by and large are designed to go along us entertained.  And this feature simply adds to that entertainment factor. For me, information technology's a nice change mid-way through a route on Zwift to feel the wooden planks of the piers.  No other trainer offers that today.

At present'southward probably a good time to talk sound. In brusk, it makes virtually no sound. About the only audio you're going to likely hear is that of your bike'due south own drivechain (meaning, the chain and such). The unit itself does have a fan, just it'due south roughly alike to a fan found on a small computer. To demonstrate this, hither's a simple audio test clip:

Adjacent, the NEO 2T has downhill bulldoze simulation, which ways that as you go downhill the trainer will frontward spin the rear 'cycle' (cassette and flywheel since there is no wheel). This ways that the trainer will simulate the inertia of going downhill.  This is yet another footling touch that makes things feel more than realistic than they are.

Next, while Tacx does have a mobile app for their trainer, information technology's unlikely you're going to employ information technology much if you use other tertiary party software.  However, it is valuable for setting your correct weight and then that you can get realistic grade simulation (also as firmware updates). This is notable if yous've got multiple people in your household at dramatically different weights:

The app besides allows you to test out the road experience and ISOKINETIC/ISOTONIC options. Yous tin see below in the two adjacent shows a scattering of the many unlike route feel modes I but talked virtually up above.

The app is also where you'll update the firmware from time to time:

Oh, wait – 1 more super important characteristic. It tin can produce a disco political party. Yup, as y'all pedal harder the lights below the unit volition shift in colors from a blueish to purple to eventual cerise coloring. The harder yous pedal, the more vibrantly red it gets.

Kinda dandy. No training benefit, except that my wife can look over and visually run into when I'm just wimping out.

App Compatibility:

The Tacx NEO 2T follows most of the industry app compatibility standards as previous Tacx products, and essentially follows the industry norms as you'd await from a high-end trainer.  As you probably know, apps like Zwift, TrainerRoad, Sufferfest, Rouvy, Kinomap and many more, all back up virtually of these industry standards, making it easy to use whatever app you'd like.  If trainers or apps don't support these standards, and then it makes it far more than difficult for you as the terminate user.

In the case of the NEO 2T, information technology (like Wahoo) doesn't quite adhere to everything. Specifically around Bluetooth Smart FMTS compatibility, which is trainer control. In the case of both, they trip the light fantastic toe to their ain protocols. Tacx actually does support FTMS on all their not-NEO series merely fine, but doesn't do FTMS on the NEO series due to FTMS's lack of ability to transmit weight information to apps (which is needed for the virtual flywheel in this specific trainer serial).

Practically speaking that has little result for the major apps, just does bear on smaller apps. Zwift, TrainerRoad, etc… all back up the proprietary versions (since they were using those versions well earlier FTMS existed). Simply newer and smaller apps similar Xert, for example, accept focused on supporting the standards instead, rather than spinning their (virtual) wheels on proprietary development. Tacx had previously promised FTMS support a year ago, merely it's non here yet for the NEO series. Again, for the majors – no biggie, only peradventure an issue for your specific app – so double-check that.

The unit supports the following protocols and transmission standards:

ANT+ FE-C Control: This is for controlling the trainer via ANT+ from apps and head units (with cadence/power data). Read tons about it here.
ANT+ Power Meter Profile: This broadcasts as a standard ANT+ power meter, with cadence data
ANT+ Avant-garde Power Meter Metrics: This includes pedal smoothness and left/right residue, and after this year Cycling Dynamics also.
Pismire+ Speed/Cadence Profile: This broadcasts your speed and cadence as a standard Ant+ Speed/Cadence combo sensor
Bluetooth Smart Trainer Command (Tacx variant): This is for controlling the trainer over Bluetooth Smart from a variety of apps.
Bluetooth Smart Power Meter Contour: This broadcasts as a standard BLE ability meter, with cadence data
Bluetooth Smart Speed/Cadence Profile: This broadcasts your speed and cadency as a standard BLE combo Speed/Cadence sensor

In the in a higher place, you'll note at that place's cadence data baked into the diverse streams. That'south handy if you're connecting to Zwift on an Apple tree Idiot box, due to Apple Television receiver's two concurrent Bluetooth Smart sensor limitation (plus the Apple TV remote).  This means you can pair the trainer and go ability/cadence/control, while also pairing up a heart rate strap.

For me, in my testing, I used Zwift and TrainerRoad as my two main apps (which are the ii main apps I use personally).  In the case of Zwift, I used it in regular riding mode (non-conditioning mode, aka SIM fashion), whereas in the instance of TrainerRoad I used it in a structured workout mode (ERG mode). I dig into the nuances of these both within the power accurateness department. In improver, I used The Sufferfest and Kinomap too for some random days.

Starting with Zwift, you can see the Tacx NEO 2T listed every bit not just a controllable trainer, but as well within the regular power meter and cadence section. Yous'll want to pair information technology up as a controllable trainer (which will too pair it as a power meter):

And then you can manually select the cadence signal. In every review, I keep wondering when Zwift will simply auto-select this equally well, but it still doesn't practice it. All the trainer companies proper noun everything the same, so it's a piddling exercise to search for this.

You'll see the trainer enumerated in a fairly like manner on TrainerRoad as well:

Also, TrainerRoad'southward tips page on using smart trainers in ERG manner:

I'd *strongly* recommend you either read that page, or just but but do ane thing:

ane) Ensure you're using the small ring up forepart: This is for ERG manner specifically, shift into the modest ring to become better control

At present the Tacx NEO 2T (like the rest of the Tacx NEO series), doesn't support whatsoever blazon of calibration. Nor does information technology need it, in fact, you can't fifty-fifty do a calibration if you lot wanted to. Though, some apps don't exactly realize this yet, so y'all might run into it listed on some apps.

Finally, to continue the spice of life – here's the NEO 2T paired today over lunch within The Sufferfest. yous tin see it showing as the power meter, cadence sensor, and also the setting for ERG manner.

At present, it'southward worthwhile noting that Tacx on the NEO 2T not merely transmits left/right residuum (we'll discuss accuracy of that later on), merely also some of the advanced power meter metrics like pedal smoothness. And Tacx says later on this year, they'll offset doing Cycling Dynamics (the Emmet+ standard variant). While one might presume this was purely a effect of the Garmin acquisition, the reality is that Tacx had been considering this for a year now, well before Garmin came around and bought them out last Feb.

As for the electric current pedaling metrics, yous tin can see those here on Garmin Connect:

Note that the app has to support those. So for example, if you utilise information technology with Zwift, they don't support recording any of that data. In my case, the above was recorded with an Edge 520 Plus.

Power Accuracy Analysis:

Every bit usual, I put the trainer upwards against a number of power meters to encounter how well it handled everything from resistance control accuracy, to speed of change, to whatsoever other weird quirks forth the way.

In my case I used one primary cycle setup as follows in a agglomeration of configurations. I was kinda all over the place the last few weeks:

Coulee Bike Setup #1: Garmin Vector 3 pedals (dual-sided), 4iiii Precision Podium (dual-sided)
Canyon Wheel Setup #2: Garmin Vector three pedals (dual-sided), Quarq DZero
Coulee Bike Setup #3: PowerTap P2 pedals (dual-sided), Quarq DZero
Giant Bike Setup #i: Garmin Vector 3 pedals, Stages LR (dual-sided)

This is all in addition to the trainer itself.  Notation that because you remove the rear bicycle I can't use something like a PowerTap hub to compare as well (which I would use in power meter testing normally).

In my case, I was looking to see how it reacted in two core apps: Zwift and TrainerRoad (Bluetooth Smart on Apple tree Tv and iPad), only I also did some work with Kinomap and The Sufferfest on iPad – and so there's that for y'all. The actual apps don't typically much affair, but rather the use cases are different.  In Zwift and Kinomap you get variability by having the road incline change and by existence able to instantly dart (aka SIM mode).  This reaction time and accurateness are both tested hither.  Whereas in TrainerRoad and The Sufferfest I'yard looking at its ability to agree a specific wattage very precisely, and to and then change wattages instantly in a repeatable way (ERG fashion).  There'due south no improve exam of that than 30×30 repeats (30-seconds at a high resistance, followed past thirty-seconds at an easy resistance).

There's two ways to look at this.  First is how quickly it responds to the commands of the application.  So for that, we demand to actually look at the overlay from TrainerRoad showing when it sent the command followed by when the NEO 2T achieved that level. You might remember back in August when the unit came out I was displeased with ii elements of this specific scenario:

A) The bodily accuracy of the ability
B) The inability for information technology to correctly smash the initial target power (it would previously over-commit by 50w).

So, two months and a flurry of firmware updates later, was it fixed?

Hither's the levels being sent (the blue cake) by TrainerRoad (in this case via Bluetooth Smart on iPad) and how quickly the 2T responded to information technology.

Every bit I said upwards above, for the most part responsiveness per se isn't an event. It's really proficient at that – too practiced I'd argue (too fast, too difficult). What we can quibble about is the slight overshoots. But I've gone back and looked at about three years of data of me doing this test, and this is actually pretty solid comparative to about others (with really the Hammer 3 chirapsia it in terms of precision).

But let'due south shift our focus to power meter accurateness. That's what this section is all most. Now technically speaking at that place isn't exactly a ability meter in the NEO serial per se. Non in the traditional sense anyway. But that'south fine. Very few trainers these days have power meters in them – and there's a long history of trainers with power meters actually performing worse in certain situations (and as, performing great in others). What I ultimately intendance most is one thing: Is it accurate. I don't care how you (a trainer company) achieve information technology. Power meter, no power meter, math magic, small elves…I don't intendance. Nobody demand care. But get it right.

So, let'southward look at the underlying data from that set. This was against a pair of PowerTap P2 pedals, the Quarq DZero, and the Tacx NEO 2T (data prepare here):

As you lot can meet, it's pretty darn close. Oddly a fleck wobbly on the very first interval – with the PowerTap P2 unit a bit lower than the other two. Later on that, it's perfectly happy at that place. Who knows, possibly the P2 pedals weren't quite prepare for that wake-upwards call even so. After that, nosotros're talking everyone within a few watts in most cases. A bit of disagreement on interval #seven from the Quarq equally well.

The above is a perfect example of even ii-3 power meters/units that are widely respected in the industry for being incredibly reliable accuracy-wise can sometimes differ in sure situations. It'due south actually interesting in that I've seen the Quarq DZero seems to option up some of the instantaneous spikes a little more than other trainers/ability meters I've been testing. Specifically at the 1-second level, significant, the offset one second of a power surge.  Y'all tin see it below where I've shown (with the iii picayune dots) the first second of that surge and the Quarq shoots higher. The question that'due south almost impossible to sympathise is whether that's right or non. That could very well be a case of Quarq is refreshing faster behind the scenes and nailing the initial ability inflection ameliorate than the others.

It's actually a pocket-size pattern I've seen in recent weeks on a diversity of different trainers and pedal-based ability meters that I've mixed and matched. It's also not something I've seen in the past when I've used the DZero prior to the semi-contempo firmware update. Perhaps it'southward more than accurate now, or maybe it'south less accurate at present. In any case, that'due south a marvel for another twenty-four hours.

And then, let's move along – this time to a Zwift session. This was in simulation way (meaning, it'southward replicating ascents/descents/etc…). This was the Titans Grove course, which I've been using for indoor trainer testing this year because of the demanding terrain – specifically the rapid up and down segments up in the hills part of the form. It also has the flats of the desert for some nice variations in small and big rings. Here's this data prepare:

Equally you can run into, the three units are always within only a couple watts of each other. Let'south zoom in on a few sections. Commencement is the initial sprint. I treated this as a lazy warm-up dart since I was simply a few minutes into the ride, so more of a 500w power surge than a proper dart.

Looking at the to a higher place data, you lot'll encounter that at that place'due south some slightly higher values coming from the Quarq on some of the surges (this is shown with 3-second averaging to make it a flake cleaner to look at, but you can look at the raw data at the link above if y'all want). Still, the P2 pedals and NEO 2T are incredibly close, and frankly as is the Quarq too.

As nosotros get into the get-go of the rolling hills, where the ability chop-chop oscillates up and down, we see all the units tracking very closely:

It'southward bluntly kinda dull to clarify how closely these units track. Nosotros exercise encounter a flake afterwards on some slightly more than visible peaks from the Quarq, but information technology's pretty minimal in the 1000 scheme of things:

And so finally that sprint towards the finish coming in on nigh 800w (shown below though with 3-second smoothing to arrive easier to see what's going on):

Again, pretty darn adept…and pretty darn boring.

So, let'due south switch information technology up one concluding time – this i over to The Sufferfest for a highly fluctuating ERG workout. Technically, despite how this looks, this was actually an ERG structured workout. It's that the specifics of this was mirroring a team time-trial, then you lot were changing target wattages every 20-xxx seconds on boilerplate. It was basics…and also a lot of fun. In any instance, here'south that information set:

Plainly, you tin can encounter the PowerTap P2 pedals and my Edge 530 were having a bad day in their intimate human relationship. No idea why all the drops. Maybe I had the Edge 530 in a weird spot or something. No biggie, doesn't really touch what we're looking at.

Here'southward zooming in on one of the essentially repetitive sections of stepping up in wattage over and over. In most cases it's within a few watts, but I notwithstanding see the Quarq a little fleck higher here and in that location than I'd expect.

But in general, these are notwithstanding incredibly close – as we see here once again:

Oh – expect – what about left/correct ability balance accuracy? Sure, permit'southward take a wait at the TrainerRoad 30×30's commencement since the data is a bit cleaner to unmask. In this example, we're looking at the left and correct power as compared to the PowerTap P2 pedals. And in detail, I'm zooming into half-dozen of these sets, considering at that place was an ANT+ dropout earlier in the workout to one of the recording units, so that's distracting (and it could be the unit receiving).

What you lot see hither though is there'south nevertheless some random left/right balance spikes where things go crazy for one-2 seconds on the NEO 2T:

Every unmarried one of these instances is connected to the very last 2nd or two of the interval. In the example of this specific conditioning, while certainly not a cakewalk, it wasn't horrifically difficult. Meaning, I wasn't doing something crazy different in the last second or two to my knowledge that would trigger this (manifestly, under the covers I must have been).

Zooming in more though, y'all tin can see what'due south happening. The power values go crazy for the left/right balance specifically (though total ability is unaffected). Note in the centre how the PowerTap P2 pedals show I stay roughly balanced.

So what almost non-ERG mode, something a chip messier? Sure, no problem. Inquire and you shall receive:

Ok, that's a mess to unravel. Then I'll make it simpler for y'all: It doesn't quite seem correct.

Specifically, the NEO 2T shows me as significantly more than imbalanced than the PowerTap P2 – massively imbalanced. Equally you can run into though, when (briefly) my power is steady-state, information technology normalizes. Only as I shift power, it goes a bit wonky. So I'1000 gonna say that this specific aspect needs a bit more work. Personally, I've never used left/right balance on a trainer for anything earlier – so this isn't a huge loss to me (and none of the major trainer apps support it anyway).

Oh, and in case someone wants to know about cadence – goose egg problems. Absolutely spot-on for me on all my rides:

I know some people have had cadence issues on the 2T, specifically around longer derailleur cages and/or different crank arm sizes. That'south because on the NEO 2/2T the cadency sensing is actually picking upwardly your crank arm going past it, versus most (all?) other trainers are doing an estimated cadence. In any case, Tacx says that the recent .32 firmware update should prepare this for most people. Nonetheless, Tacx says for specific creepo arm combinations there may be bug where information technology's not detecting the metal passing past. In my case, I've run with 175mm crank arms without issue.

Ultimately, for what I'm doing, I'm pretty darn happy with the accurateness of the NEO 2T. I'd have no bug using it for power meter testing going forrard, which is sorta my basic benchmark for whether or non I'll use a trainer in the DCR Cave subsequently a review is done.

(Note: All of the charts in these accuracy portions were created using the DCR Analyzer tool.  It allows y'all to compare power meters/trainers, middle rate, cadence, speed/pace, GPS tracks and plenty more. You lot can use it also for your own gadget comparisons, more details hither.)

Trainer Comparisons:

Offset off – if you're trying to decide on a trainer, bank check out my consummate recommendations guide that's but a week or 2 old.

I've added the Tacx NEO 2T into the product comparison database.  This allows yous to compare it against other trainers I've reviewed.  For this post, I've compared it against the Wahoo KICKR 2022, CycleOps Hammer 3 and Elite Drivo Two. I could have tossed in the Tacx NEO ii, just frankly there'southward no database line item that's unlike there. The simply divergence is the lack of 'slip' I talked about earlier, which is so tiny that most people probably wouldn't notice it compared to a NEO 1/ii.

Function/Feature	Elite Drivo II	Saris H3	Tacx NEO 2T Smart	Wahoo KICKR V4/2018
Copyright DC Rainmaker - Updated April 2nd, 2022 @ 3:04 am New Window
Price for trainer	$i,199	$1,099	$one,399	$1,198
Trainer Type	Directly Drive (no wheel)	Directly Drive (no wheel)	Straight Drive (no wheel)	Direct Bulldoze (No Wheel)
Bachelor today (for auction)	Aye	Yes	Yes	Yes
Availability regions	Global	Global	Global	Global
Wired or Wireless data transmission/control	Wireless	Wireless	Wireless	Wireless
Power cord required	Yeah for broadcast, no for general utilize	Yes	No	Yep
Flywheel weight	xiii.2lbs/6kg	20lb/9kg	Faux/Virtual 125KG	16lbs/7.25kgs
Includes cassette	No	No	No	Yep (11 Speed SRAM/Shimano)
Resistance	Elite Drivo II	Saris H3	Tacx NEO 2T Smart	Wahoo KICKR V4/2018
Can electronically control resistance (i.e. 200w)	Yeah	Yes	Yes	Yeah
Includes motor to bulldoze speed (simulate downhill)	No	No	Yes	No
Maximum wattage capability	2,296w @ 40KPH / iii,600w @ 60KPH	2,000w	2,200w @ 40KPH	2,200w @ 40KPH
Maximum faux loma incline	24%	20%	25%	20%
Features	Aristocracy Drivo Ii	Saris H3	Tacx NEO 2T Smart	Wahoo KICKR V4/2018
Power to update unit of measurement firmware	Yeah	Yes	Yes	Yes
Measures/Estimates Left/Right Power	9EUR one-fourth dimension fee	No	Yep	No
Can ascension/lower bike or portion thereof	No	No	No	With KICKR CLIMB accessory
Can directionally steer trainer (left/right)	No	No	No	No
Tin can rock side to side (significantly)	No	No	No	No
Can simulate road patterns/shaking (i.e. cobblestones)	No	No	Yep	No
Accuracy	Elite Drivo II	Saris H3	Tacx NEO 2T Smart	Wahoo KICKR V4/2018
Includes temperature compensation	N/A	Yeah	N/A	Yes
Support rolldown procedure (for wheel based)	Yes	Yep	North/A	Yes
Supported accuracy level	+/- 0.v%	+/- two%	+/- ane%	+/- two%
Trainer Command	Elite Drivo Ii	Saris H3	Tacx NEO 2T Smart	Wahoo KICKR V4/2018
Allows 3rd party trainer control	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yep
Supports Emmet+ Atomic number 26-C (Trainer Control Standard)	Aye	Yes	Yeah	YEs
Supports Bluetooth Smart FTMS (Trainer Control Standard)	Yes	Yep	No, but supports most apps	No, but supports well-nigh apps
Data Broadcast	Elite Drivo 2	Saris H3	Tacx NEO 2T Smart	Wahoo KICKR V4/2018
Transmits power via ANT+	Yes	Yep	Yes	Yes
Transmits power via Bluetooth Smart	Yep	Yes	Yeah	Yes
Supports Multiple Concurrent Bluetooth connections	No, simply one	No, just ane	No, but ane	Yes, 3 Concurrent
Transmits cadence data	Yes	Yes	Yes	Aye
Purchase	Elite Drivo 2	Saris H3	Tacx NEO 2T Smart	Wahoo KICKR V4/2018
Amazon	Link	Link	Link
Backcountry.com		Link	Link
Competitive Cyclist		Link	Link
REI	N/A	Link	Link	Link
Wiggle	Link	Link	Link	Link
DCRainmaker	Elite Drivo Ii	Saris H3	Tacx NEO 2T Smart	Wahoo KICKR V4/2018
Review Link	Link	Link	Link	Link

And again, remember you can make your own comparison guide against whatever other trainers in the database here.

Summary:

The Tacx NEO 2T continues with the residue of the NEO series in retaining its title as one of the best trainers in the industry. Certain, the road to get here was a bit rougher than years by, just hey, better late than never. And, based on the general fiasco that this twelvemonth's indoor trainers accept been beyond all companies – Tacx actually got their firm in order faster than others. So there's that too, I approximate.

Withal, that won't matter 3 months or 6 months from now (or fifty-fifty today). Information technology's all water under the bridge. What matters is how well it works today, and I have zero issues with it from a power/cadence accuracy standpoint or a reliability standpoint. I do still maintain its a fleck edgy (bossy maybe?) in ERG mode, and I'd beloved to see Tacx introduce some sort of option in their app to make ERG style a scrap less abrasive (more like the previous NEO units, or mayhap the Saris H3). And, of form, I'm hoping that every bit they look to implement Cycling Dynamics later this year, that they'll sort out some of the left/right balance items. Though again, I'm not sure how many people will actually leverage that, given the trainer apps don't support information technology.

Every bit I said somewhere up earlier in the review – if you're looking at getting a new trainer and are considering the 2T – there's no reason not to get it. Information technology's a great trainer now. If y'all're looking at a solid deal on a NEO 2 (non-2T) – that's likewise a neat trainer, and given the right deal, I'd probably pick that upwards instead and apply the cash somewhere else in your life. And for those with the NEO 1/two already, unless the minor virtual tire slip issue really bugs you, I can't run across much of a reason to upgrade to the NEO 2T from those units.

I've oft noted that the NEO series is typically the trainer I use when I'm not doing trainer reviews, and I suspect that'll probably exist the case when the grit settles this wintertime.  It also helps that I can fold it up on itself at home and it generally keeps the kids from messing with the cassette. Sometimes it'south the little things….or little people.

With that – promise this helps, and thanks for reading!

Found This Post Useful? Back up The Site!

Hopefully you found this review useful. At the terminate of the day, I'm an athlete only like you looking for the nearly detail possible on a new purchase – so my review is written from the standpoint of how I used the device. The reviews generally have a lot of hours to put together, and then it'south a fair scrap of work (and labor of honey). Every bit you probably noticed past looking below, I besides take fourth dimension to answer all the questions posted in the comments – and in that location'south quite a bit of detail in there as well.

If you're shopping for the Tacx NEO 2T Smart or any other accessory items, please consider using the affiliate links below! As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. It doesn't cost you anything extra, but your purchases help back up this website a lot. Even more, if you use Backcountry.com or Competitive Cyclist with coupon code DCRAINMAKER, outset time users save 15% on applicable products!

I've too put together a quick listing of some of my favorite or virtually uniform accessories for this unit:

And finally, here's a handy list of trainer accessories that virtually folks getting a smart trainer for the starting time fourth dimension might not have already:

And of form – you can e'er sign-up to be a DCR Supporter! That gets yous an advertisement-free DCR, access to the DCR Quarantine Corner video serial packed with behind the scenes tidbits...and it likewise makes y'all awesome. And being crawly is what information technology's all about!

Thank you for reading! And as always, feel complimentary to postal service comments or questions in the comments section below, I'll be happy to attempt and reply them as quickly as possible. And lastly, if you felt this review was useful – I always appreciate feedback in the comments beneath. Thanks!

Institute This Post Useful? Back up The Site!

Hopefully you found this review useful. At the end of the day, I'k an athlete just similar you looking for the well-nigh particular possible on a new purchase – and then my review is written from the standpoint of how I used the device. The reviews generally take a lot of hours to put together, so it's a off-white bit of work (and labor of love). Every bit yous probably noticed by looking below, I also accept time to answer all the questions posted in the comments – and there's quite a bit of item in there also.

If you're shopping for the Tacx NEO 2T Smart or any other accessory items, delight consider using the chapter links below! As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Information technology doesn't cost you anything actress, just your purchases help support this website a lot. Even more than, if you utilise Backcountry.com or Competitive Cyclist with coupon code DCRAINMAKER, first time users salve 15% on applicable products!

I've likewise put together a quick list of some of my favorite or most compatible accessories for this unit:

And finally, hither's a handy listing of trainer accessories that most folks getting a smart trainer for the first time might not accept already:

And of course – you lot tin ever sign-upwards to be a DCR Supporter! That gets you lot an advertizing-free DCR, access to the DCR Quarantine Corner video series packed with behind the scenes tidbits...and it also makes you awesome. And being awesome is what information technology's all about!

Thank you for reading! And as always, feel gratuitous to postal service comments or questions in the comments section below, I'll exist happy to effort and respond them as rapidly equally possible. And lastly, if you felt this review was useful – I e'er appreciate feedback in the comments beneath. Thanks!

How To Set Erg Mode On Tacx Neo,

Source: https://www.dcrainmaker.com/2019/11/tacx-neo-2t-smart-trainer-in-depth-review.html

Posted by: rasmussenalwainter45.blogspot.com

Share this post