The Smart Pro from Bkool is a roller trainer with an extensive electronics package designed to bring entertainment and variety to your training. The device itself consists of two parts and can therefore be stowed away just as easily as it can be set up quickly and stably. In addition to a front wheel support, the quick release for the rear wheel mount and the matching mains plug, the scope of delivery also includes an ANT+ USB stick, which establishes the connection between the roller trainer and the computer. Setup and commissioning are very simple, the training software is free and available for both Windows and Mac. Suitable apps for tablet computers are available for iOS and Android in the respective stores. Full functionality is available with premium access, which can be tested free of charge for 30 days; renewal currently costs ten euros for monthly billing or eight euros for a one-year subscription.
The software quickly finds and recognises the roller trainer and training can begin. If you want, you can join one of the current sessions for a virtual training session or race if you have an online connection. In addition to currently more than 1,200 videos of various routes and professional sports races as well as countless animated routes in the 3D world, there is also the option of taking part in animated individual and team competitions on the velodrome cycling track. Users can also create their own video and 3D tracks and share them with other cyclists in the online orbit.
The pedalling feel on the roller is consistently good, the resistance adapted to the virtual terrain feels realistic - but always requires a stable internet connection. If this is not available, you may lose your hard-won place in the virtual race in one fell swoop. You may have the training effect in your legs, but your motivation is ruined. Nevertheless, the opportunity to challenge other users in a competition is motivating - and enables intensive training sessions instead of monotonous pedalling. The volume of the Bkool depends heavily on the simulated terrain. On a steep climb, the trainer is pleasantly quiet, but on a fast descent it can become annoyingly loud. The display of the most important data during training is clearly laid out; after the session, the data is uploaded to the user's personal area on the Bkool website. A direct upload to Strava can also be activated.
- PLUS: Enables varied training, large selection of routes, can be stowed away relatively small, stable
- MINUS: No resistance can be set without an Internet connection
- Price: 597 euros (incl. premium access for one year)
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Matthias Borchers
Editor
