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The first twenty degrees of crank rotation feel like you are pedalling into the void, then the brake of the Cycplus T3, even very heartily if required. The control is smooth up to high power levels as long as you don't take a break from pedalling. However, if you start pedalling again on a virtual descent after a rolling phase, for example in the Zwift world, the brake surprises you with briefly too much resistance, followed by a drop-out. This leads to a choppy driving experience and destroys the illusion of racing downhill at 60 kilometres an hour. The avoidance strategy, on the other hand, could easily be considered a training feature: keep pedalling as if you were in a fixed gear and the pedalling sensation will be perfect! Background: Similar to the expensive Tacx trainers, the Cycplus trainer has little real flywheel mass and has to reproduce the riding behaviour, including inertia, electrically via its large brushless motor - which is much less successful than with Tacx.
Very moderate noise development
On the other hand, there is a lot of braking power in a small space. The slim brake is supposed to deliver up to 2700 watts, which is slightly more than our pedalling ability. A 27% incline is also claimed to be possible. We didn't test this either, but the Chinese bike easily managed a 1000 watt sprint. If you keep your foot on the accelerator, there's nothing wrong with the riding experience. The noise level is also very moderate. The Cycplus is one of the quietest devices. The BT connection via app on our test device is just as awkward as pedalling after rolling phases. A stable connection was not possible even after updating the firmware and updating the app, making the app useless for us. Zwift, on the other hand, could be operated very stably and without delay with the Cycplus via ANT+.
The integrated power measurement of the Cycplus works convincingly well and does not require continuous calibration. The measured power matches our reference crank power meter down to a few watts, from 200 to 1000 W. The stated accuracy of +/-1 % seems plausible. The folding mechanism is also outstandingly good, working really smoothly and offering a lot of stability when unfolded. The pack size is very compact and the ergonomically positioned handle at the top makes carrying the trainer child's play. No other manufacturer has done this so well. The scope of delivery includes adapters for all common rear triangles, including quick-release axles. An 11-speed cassette is included, although its shifting comfort does not reach Shimano level. A sweat mat rounds off the equipment.
Technical data for the Cycplus T3 Smarttrainer
- Price: 1039,50 Euro >> available here
- Maximum performance: 2800 W
- Up to 27% gradient
- Weight: 19.7 kg with 11-speed pack fitted
- Floor space: 71x52 cm, folded: 25x30x55 cm WxLxH
- Noise development: 27/40/66 km/h: 65/69/77 dBA
Test summary of the Cycplus T3
Mechanically top, but with weaknesses in control and app/BT connectivity.
Advantages and disadvantages of the Cycplus T3
Plus: Accurate power measurement, small pack/stand size, easy to carry, quiet
Minus: Lack of inertia/control holes, BT connection problems
