"Oreka" is Basque and means "balance". This is precisely where the strength of the 90-kilogram device lies: Indoor training in virtual worlds with maximum freedom of movement, because on the Oreka the whole bike is only slightly clamped to the rear wheel.
There are basically two different ways to set up the Oreka: Either via virtual training software on a laptop and other mobile devices or via the Bkool smartphone app, where the resistance can be adjusted manually with just a few clicks.
We tested the Oreka in training and racing modes in December 2018 using a laptop with the Bkool Indoor Training software. Setting up the bike on the trainer is done in a few simple steps, but pairing it with the Bkool smartphone app proves difficult at first. Once the connection is established, there is a noticeable delay of a few seconds until the treadmill of the Oreka trainer has adjusted the resistance.
Riding with the Bkool Indoor Training software is undoubtedly more exciting than manually adjusting the resistance. Here, the resistance is adjusted via Bluetooth at almost the same time as the virtual terrain changes. Unfortunately, the watt values displayed within the Bkool software did not match the actual force applied in flat sections during our test with watt measuring pedals. Oreka refers to the Bkool calculation model, which works with a correlation curve on flat stretches, according to which 109 watts are sufficient for a speed of 30 kilometres per hour. In our test races, this meant that we were often quickly left behind despite having a better power output than our opponents.
It was a different story on climbs and descents, where actual and virtual performance were the same. From the beginning of 2019, retrofit kits will be available that enable pairing with all other virtual training providers such as Zwift, Road Grand Tours or Virtu GO, where such deviations between real and in-app power output should no longer occur.
The basic prerequisite for the Oreka Trainer is that you have some mastery of riding on the free roll. Otherwise you have to concentrate so much on the riding line that you lose focus on performance. The grab rail on the right-hand edge of the treadmill, which has a mobile phone holder and an emergency stop button, makes it easier to start riding freely. However, even long-time club riders were unable to satisfactorily complete crisp finish sprints like on trainers with direct drive. The reason: the Oreka Trainer has a speed limit of 35 kilometres per hour. If you want to go faster, the effort required increases exponentially. The testers liked the braking function: if you brake the bike to the maximum, the belt stops automatically. Together with the bracket on the rear wheel, this minimises the risk of falling considerably.
Indoor beginners and road cyclists who want to ride virtual races regularly are not the main target group for the Oreka Trainer. For bike fitters and cyclists who value as much realism as possible in their own living room, the investment may be worthwhile - especially when the upgrade announced for 2019 arrives, which will make the trainer compatible with Zwift, RGT, Virtu Go and other training software.
Technical data of the Oreka
- RRP: 3,490 euros
- Weight: 90 kilogrammes
- Stand dimensions: 205 cm length x 81 cm height x 38 cm width
- Max. simulated power: 750 watts
Test summary of the Oreka
- PLUS: Realistic driving experience thanks to maximum manoeuvrability, trains driving technique/balance
- MINUS: Time-delayed resistance adjustment for manual use, price
Downloads:
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