Wahoo recently announced the ability to now connect the KICKR ROLLR trainer to platforms like Wahoo RGT, Zwift, and others, without the need for a power meter.
The KICKR ROLLR was launched early in 2022, and is a hybrid roller/wheel-on trainer. The front of the ROLLR has a tray for your front wheel to sit in with arms to lock the front wheel in place for stability. The back of the trainer includes a dual-roller setup with an external flywheel similar to what you find on the KICKR SNAP, which makes it very easy to hop between indoor and outdoor training, without the need to remove your rear wheel. The two are connected with the ability to adjust the length depending on the bike, which makes it very easy to use across a variety of bikes.
The KICKR ROLLR does offer resistance, allowing you to ride in level, ERG, or simulated modes, allowing you to enjoy the virtual experience found on other trainers in the KICKR lineup.
The update is similar to how virtual platforms work with dumb trainers. Virtual power is calculated based on the speed of the ROLLR. The speed is mapped to a power value, which creates an overall smoothed power, which the platform then uses to control the resistance on the ROLLR. While it might not compare to a true power meter or smart trainer that can measure power, the new feature is targeted more toward newer cyclists that are less concerned with power numbers and want to enjoy using virtual platforms like RGT.
With the new functionality added, you can now take full advantage of the Wahoo X platform, which includes Wahoo SYSTM and RGT. SYSTM offers personalized training plans for a variety of cycling disciplines, along with workouts in a variety of areas like running, cross-training, yoga, and mental fitness.
When it comes to riding in the virtual world, Wahoo RGT is your app as part of the Wahoo X subscription plan. RGT allows you to ride, train, and race in a virtual world on realistic roads and courses. A few interesting features include the ability to re-ride previous activities and also various types of racing.
With the Magic Roads feature, you can upload a .gpx file and RGT will create the route for you. This is great if you are training for a specific event, or you can ride your favorite route any time of year. As for racing, you can join scheduled races or create your own. They offer road races, time trials, and elimination-style races, or you can bring groups together for training or group rides.
Wahoo recently added 4DP, a new way of looking at your training. It looks at four key performance metrics—Neuromuscular Power (NM), Maximal Aerobic Power (MAP), Functional Threshold Power (FTP), and Anaerobic Capacity (AC).  Instead of focusing solely on FTP, your endurance power, Wahoo is looking at your absolute max power (NM), your ability to put in short hard efforts and your ability to recover from them (AC), and the upper ceiling for aerobic power production (MAP). By looking at all of these areas of performance, Wahoo X can help you improve in these areas to help you grow your fitness and performance.
Once you complete the Full Frontal fitness assessment in SYSTM, you’ll see the rider type you fit into. Based on your results in each category, you may be classified as a Sprinter, Attacker, Pursuiter, Time Trialist, Climber, or a Rouleur.
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