Today’s post is one of those ones that’s best done via video. Or, at the very least audio. Thus, the above video.
As the title of this post implies, this is a direct sound/volume/noise comparison between all of Wahoo’s current lineup of bike trainers, one after another. I go through the following units:
Wahoo KICKR ROLLR
Wahoo KICKR SNAP
Wahoo KICKR CORE
Wahoo KICKR V5/2020
I skipped the Wahoo KICKR Bike because it’s not a trainer. Plus, I don’t have one. But I don’t think there’s too many people that are using noise as the deciding factor between the KICKR V5/2020 and the $ 3,500 KICKR BIKE (and spoiler, noise levels between those two are basically the same).
For the test above, I tested each trainer at three different speeds (wheel speed is all that matters for volume on a smart trainers):
Slow speed (easiest gearing): This is ideal for ERG mode, because not only is it the quietest on every trainer, but it also increases accuracy/responsiveness in ERG mode on virtually every trainer.
Cruising along speed (20MPH/30KPH): This would be the speed you’d likely be in within a group ride or just cruising along at a good clip.
Sprint speed: This is basically the loudest the trainer gets at the fastest I’m able to make it go (on flat ground).
Within the video I do each test successively for each trainer, and then towards the end I compare them rapid-fire style back to back.
Go forth and enjoy!