Tacx, Wahoo and Elite have so far shared the lion's share of the European roller trainer market. This makes it all the more exciting when new manufacturers present their first smart trainers from time to time. The Taiwanese company Xplova, previously better known for GPS computers, is trying to establish itself with the Xplova S; a product that, at 799 euros RRP, is priced in the same range as the Wahoo Kickr Core and Tacx Flux Smart 2.
The Xplova Noza S has a maximum resistance of 2,500 watts and simulates inclines of up to 18 per cent. The flywheel, which weighs just under six kilos, provides a very realistic riding experience and responds to changes in power or incline in virtual worlds after just one or two turns of the crank. Another positive aspect is that the Noza S is comparatively quiet at medium speeds. The wireless connection also worked flawlessly during the test. The trainer can be connected directly to bike computers or apps such as Zwift, TrainerRoad, Bkool, Kinomap and many more via ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart (BLE).
The sprocket is not included in the scope of delivery. No problem - if the illustrations in the instruction manual weren't so small: details are barely recognisable, sketch labels can only be read with a magnifying glass - that's no fun and could easily be improved. The front leg can be quickly adjusted to two different heights using a spring pin. This - and the corresponding adapters supplied for the left and right side of the rear wheel axle (for quick release and thru axle) - makes the exercise bike compatible for road and mountain bikes. The adapter sets even allow 148 millimetres of axle spacing to be bridged - the prerequisite for mountain bikes equipped with the Boost standard. This compatibility is particularly useful for bikers who also want to train on their favourite MTB in their living room.
One small drawback is the app, which offers a lot of content but is not very tidy. More clarity would certainly help to utilise the training content (performance test, workouts) more.
Technical data of the Xplova Noza S
- Price: 799 Euro
- Weight 17 kilogrammes
- Footprint W x L: 85 x 56 cm
- Storage dimensions W x L x H: 60 x 52 x 47 cm
- Max. power: 2,500 watts
- max. gradient: 18 per cent
- Volume at 30 km/h: 58 decibels
- Accuracy: 2.5 per cent
Test summary of the Xplova Noza S
- PLUS: reai in Zwift, relatively quiet, MTB-compatible
- MINUS: Manual and app rather confusing
