Bkool is currently the only company in the indoor business to produce both virtually animated training software and the associated smart trainers. The Bkool software and Smart Air, the Spanish company's new flagship product, are therefore closely interlinked. A three-month premium membership for the Bkool software is therefore included as standard. Also included: adapters for 9 mm quick release and 12 mm thru-axles, which makes the trainer usable for bikes with and without discs. A cassette is not included. Assembly is quick, only the two feet need to be screwed on. The connection to the in-house software works with both ant+ and Bluetooth. For Zwift, however, we were unable to pair the trainer via Bluetooth.
Bkool Smart Air roller trainer priced close to the Tacx Neo Smart
Priced close to the Tacx Neo Smart, the Bkool Smart Air advertises even more realism thanks to the flexible rocking system called the "Rocking System", which offers up to six degrees of lateral movement. Sounds good, but initially feels quite jerky during the ride. Only when you get used to the mechanism and don't lean too much into the sides does the feeling improve - but it is still a little removed from the dynamic rocking motion of a ride in the fresh air.
Bkool also advertises minimal noise development. However, our practical test shows that competitor models such as the Tacx Neo Smart 2 or the Wahoo Kickr are ahead in terms of noise. Unfortunately, the test was unexpectedly short: At comparatively moderate wattages, the trainer started to smoke. The electronics problem could not be rectified. Unfortunately, we were not provided with a new test device.
Technical data for the Bkool Smart Air roller trainer (manufacturer's specifications)
- RRP: 1,199 euros
- Weight: 24 kilogrammes
- Stand size: 70x84 centimetres
- Max. simulated power: 3,000 watts
- Max. simulated gradient: 25 % gradient
- max. deviation: 2 per cent
Conclusion on the Bkool Smart Air roller trainer
- PLUS: Sideways movement increases realism, incl. premium account with Bkool software for 3 months
- Minus: Volume, connectivity via Bluetooth, electronic problems
Downloads:
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