Kinetic Trainers today announced details of its re-designed 2014 trainer line, its first revamp of the line since 2007. Overall changes focus on improved 29er compatibility, enhanced ergonomics and lighter weight. Trainers also now come fully assembled, so they are ready to use right out of the box.
Kinetic replaced the cantilever design of its flagship model, the Rock and Roll, with a design that centers the pivot point and rider weight over the elastomer stack, reducing rider-induced bounce and sag and allowing lower bolt tension to give a more active side-to-side motion. The new centered design also allows for the use of forward-facing support arms, instead of the previous curved arms, which results in a smaller overall footprint. The axle support mechanism now uses rubber-over-plastic knobs for improved ergonomics, and a refined upper frame to fit up to 29 x 2.4″ tire sizes. Overall, the Rock and Roll went on a diet and lost two pounds. MSRP is $579.
Changes to the Road Machine, Magnetic and Cyclone models include weight reductions of one pound, rubber-over-plastic molding on all knobs and feet, and a refined frame design so all Kinetic trainers fit up to 29 x 2.4″ tires sizes. MSRP is $379, $299 and $269 respectively.
No changes were made to the company’s patented sealed fluid chamber with magnetically coupled driveshaft. Kinetic’s proven design provides leak-proof performance and measurable and repeatable workloads with resistance from 5 to 3000+ watts.
The line also includes the company’s power training tool, Kinetic inRide, which was introduced last year. The Kinetic InRide watt meter system uses Bluetooth Smart™ communication protocol — found in the Apple iPhone 5 and 4s, iPad3 and iPod Touch 5 — to pair a heart rate monitor and a power sensor pod with the new Kinetic inRide iPhone App to measure wattage with any Kinetic fluid stationary trainer. MSRP is $229.
“We’ve made some great changes to the line to help cyclists to stay motivated and train smarter with measurable results in the offseason, and use our trainers for pre-race warm-ups during the season,” said Paul Carlsen, Kinetic’s division manager.
To see Kinetic’s complete line of stationary trainers and accessories, go towww.kurtkinetic.com.
Ron Callahan is the chief cook and bottlewasher at Bike World News, doing everything from website design to bike reviews.