Thanks Jourdain, I just picked one of these up secondhand on eBay, and it didn't come with instructions. I found them on Wahoo's website, but your video was so much easier to follow and came from a real users perspective/ normal speak! I recommend this video to anyone else setting up a Wahoo kickr 👍
I just ordered the Core from Amazon and hope to receive and start using it within a few weeks (it's currently back-ordered). This actually works out for me as I need to prep for it first, e.g. Bluetooth receiver for my PC, buy a mat, replace the chain and cables on my bike and give it a tuneup, figure out which app or apps I'd like to use on it and how to set them up and use them, etc. Can't wait! Btw I think it would make more sense to install the QR skewer (and through axle adapter if you need that too) before attaching the bike, to prevent the left side adapter(s) from falling out. It's going to stay on the trainer afterwards anyway even if you remove the wheel so might as well. And, anyone know why they call them turbo trainers? Did they originally have small wind turbines to serve as their resistance units before makers switched over to fluid (which I suppose used fluid turbines) and magnetic resistance, or because even the latter had small "turbines" or fans to prevent overhearing? Does the Core have one inside the resistance unit? Finally, is there a temptation to use the brakes while riding wheel-off trainers due to muscle memory and force of habit and how long does it take to learn to stop doing that? Do any trainers have brake sensors to allow you to actually brake or would that be utterly pointless for virtual riding?
Brakes are non existent in the virtual world of Zwift! You can get a little brake stop to go in your disc brake calliper if you have disc brakes so you don't push the pistons out by mistake.
@@JourdainColeman Yeah I now understand that, it's just a bit of a mental adjustment, braking being so essential to outdoor riding. I have rim brakes so no issues there. That said, it might be interesting to introduce braking via brake sensors to virtual riding. Or not. Just like turning and everything else associated with outdoor riding (crashing?). Just thinking out loud! 😁
I would just say never turn your bike upside down especially if it has hydraulic brakes as if done for too long can wreck your bleed of the system, not to mention wreck your cockpit. Also I would put the skewer in first before putting the bike on but minor issues thanks for the vid.
@@JourdainColeman btw, just setting up my kickr core now.. My bike comes with a thru axle.. So i have to use the thru axle from my bike right? Kickr core doesn't come witb a thru axle?
@@taksiobs Hi Ted. Yes, I believe this is the case. GPLama has a video here - czcams.com/video/26mwR6m47TE/video.html&ab_channel=ShaneMiller-GPLama which would likely help you 👍🏽
Hi Jourdain, can you recommend the cheapest bike out there that would fit the core and also what cassette to go with said bike? I'm struggling to find cheapo 9,10,11 speed road bikes.
Was like the other person and waiting to see if a new version is going to come out this year but doesn't look like it and not sure how much they could change without infringing more on their regular kickr. Any downsides that you have found from a few months ownerships? Any regrets not going for the kickr (besides the cost)?
To be honest, calibration is meant to be done every few weeks form my understanding. I guess there is no harm in frequent calibration. Depending on what trainer you have there are different methods. You can use the Wahoo fitness app if you have a wahoo trainer. You can also do it in Zwift - www.zwift.com/news/3634-how-to-calibrate-your-smart-trainier?__znl=en-gb I hope that helps 👍🏽
yeah, you will need an app of some sort to control the kickr. If you hop on and nothing is controlling it then you will just spin at the same speed. Changing gears won't do anything really. I tent to use Zwift, it make cycling indoor much more enjoyable
Hi. Just got one of these and I was wondering if the vibration i have is normal. Listening to your sound test it seems like it's about the same with mine. But to be sure, do you also feel it on the saddle and handlebars like I do? Thanks!
I can feel vibrations but not too extreme. The amount of vibration will vary from bike to bike depending on gearing etc. Mine is pretty robust and has take some punishment over the last few months. One thing I have noticed is the rubber connectors on the end of the feet wiggle loose. This can cause the trainer to be uneven. Which could cause more vibration. Hope you are enjoying and getting on well with your trainer.
Now I use my computer on my desk to run zwift. Previously though I have looked at ipad stands. There are also mounts that connect to your bars and give you a little shelf for phone etc.
Hi….I set my Kickr Core up today but the resistance feels higher than on the road as much as two gears lower on a 6% climb…I have the ERG set to smoothing like in your video any ideas please!?
I've not experienced that before. Do the lower gears represent a higher wattage compared to the road? It does take some getting used to to be honest. You could always try a calibration and see if that helps
@@JourdainColeman Thank you. I did a calibration on setup, The overall effort needed for the ride definitely felt more than if I was riding on the road.
Hey Jourdain, thanks for posting this. However I have a question. So I have followed steps exactly. But when I mount the bike the chain (and pedal stroke) is very stiff, the chain is grinding against the bike frame itself. I can't understand it, i've got the adaptors in correctly. on both sides So as a test i turn the pedals backwards and the cassette spins backwards. However then when i tighten the quick release it's altogether too tight. any suggestions welcome ?!
Hey Loe, it sounds like there is an issue somewhere 🤔 - Firstly, how many gears does your cassette have? Is it a standard 11 speed or something different? Is your bike disc brake or rim brake? It could be a simple issue with the way the bike is sitting. When you tighten the quick release, push down on the saddle. I find it easier to put my body weight on the saddle whilst tightening the quick release. Also, go behind the bike and look to make sure that it is vertical, if it's leaning, this could be the cause. The chain should not be hitting the frame so something is wrong, where is the chain hitting the frame? If it's easier message me on Instagram and send pictures - instagram.com/jourdaincoleman/
Im waiting for the Eurobike announcements next month, 3 years have passed since the core came out, they will probably announce a new version so im struggling not to buy one since march, ugh.
@@JourdainColeman Returning here to let u know that eurobike ended today without wahoo announcing any new trainer. Wahoo actually didnt take part at all. There are huge supply chain problems due to covid so now is not the time for a new trainer announcement. Im getting a kickr core this week. Winter is coming ;)
Hey Son, what speed is you r bike? (How many rings at the back) The spacer will be used if you have 8,9 or 10 speed (if my memory server me correctly). So if you have 8,9 or 10 speed the spacer will go on first before the cassette. If you have 11 speed then there is no spacer needed. I hope that helps. It's alittle confusing when it comes to cassette compatability. I would advise have a good old Google to get to grips with it. As for the noise, turbos aren't silient. But if you think there is wexxessive noise then I'd double check everyhting is installed correcltly.
Good question! The weight of the kickr Core is 18kg. So in the box it was probably around 22kg. It's pretty heavy to be honest. I guess it needs to be to keep stable.
@@JourdainColeman Thanks so much, just ordered one while on holiday and was wondering if it would meet the weight requirement for the flight back home. Thanks again
@@RMD992-f2n Yeah, it's hard at the moment. I would advise looking on Ebay. There seem to be some sellers on there who specialise in bike parts. Maybe you can find one on the off change.
I’m enjoying the bike so far czcams.com/users/postUgkxMesz3KOGEmwmvyKQfLfrRSUXLFzfVHZA My only real complaints are the brakes and the pedals. I feel like a bike designed for bigger people should have much larger pedals and more heavy duty brakes. I’ve only gotten two really good rides out of it, minimal downhill action, and the brakes feel like they’re already going out. A larger person has more momentum, so I think this wasn’t thought through very well. Also, I wear size 13-14 wide shoes. My feet cramp up on these pedals that are clearly made for smaller feet. Since I’m not a pro rider (and I don’t think many are who purchase this bike) I don’t think that the straps on the pedal are necessary at all. None of this takes away from the enjoyment I get from riding, however. I’ll just head to a bike shop to improve on a few things.
Click here for a *1-year update* on the Wahoo kickr Core - czcams.com/video/9R-FDX1w7Xo/video.html
Thanks Jourdain, I just picked one of these up secondhand on eBay, and it didn't come with instructions. I found them on Wahoo's website, but your video was so much easier to follow and came from a real users perspective/ normal speak!
I recommend this video to anyone else setting up a Wahoo kickr 👍
Glad I could help! Mine is still going strong 👍🏼
Great stuff - thank you for the run through as my Kickr just arrived yesterday and the pain of set-up has been considerably eased.
Great to hear that the video helped you out! Now the fun begins
Great video. Helped massively in getting my trainer setup. Cheers
Glad it helped 👍🏽
great stuff - just bought an ex demo from my local bike shop. I was not sure where to start
This was a great help thanks. Half the battle for me was getting the decals on the front and back facing the right way :)
Glad it helped! I've set 2 of these up now and it's the same every time 😂
Love the video. Got myself a kickr core and there’s could be no better way to it. Thank you! 👌
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thanks for that 👍 just got mine should have watched your vid first 😀 really helpful !
Great the video was helpful for you! Enjoy the trainer 👌🏾
really helped cheers mate
Great video thanks. I was looking at a kickr snap but I think I'll wait and save up for a kickr core.
Great video, thanks! Will install mine this afternoon🤞🏼
Glad it helped! I hope all went well with your installation 👍🏽
Fantastic review, with tons of useful info. Thank you 👍
Terrific video, mate. Thank you.
Glad you enjoyed it, Marek!
I just ordered the Core from Amazon and hope to receive and start using it within a few weeks (it's currently back-ordered). This actually works out for me as I need to prep for it first, e.g. Bluetooth receiver for my PC, buy a mat, replace the chain and cables on my bike and give it a tuneup, figure out which app or apps I'd like to use on it and how to set them up and use them, etc. Can't wait!
Btw I think it would make more sense to install the QR skewer (and through axle adapter if you need that too) before attaching the bike, to prevent the left side adapter(s) from falling out. It's going to stay on the trainer afterwards anyway even if you remove the wheel so might as well.
And, anyone know why they call them turbo trainers? Did they originally have small wind turbines to serve as their resistance units before makers switched over to fluid (which I suppose used fluid turbines) and magnetic resistance, or because even the latter had small "turbines" or fans to prevent overhearing? Does the Core have one inside the resistance unit?
Finally, is there a temptation to use the brakes while riding wheel-off trainers due to muscle memory and force of habit and how long does it take to learn to stop doing that? Do any trainers have brake sensors to allow you to actually brake or would that be utterly pointless for virtual riding?
Brakes are non existent in the virtual world of Zwift! You can get a little brake stop to go in your disc brake calliper if you have disc brakes so you don't push the pistons out by mistake.
@@JourdainColeman Yeah I now understand that, it's just a bit of a mental adjustment, braking being so essential to outdoor riding. I have rim brakes so no issues there. That said, it might be interesting to introduce braking via brake sensors to virtual riding. Or not. Just like turning and everything else associated with outdoor riding (crashing?). Just thinking out loud! 😁
informative and nice Giant!
I would just say never turn your bike upside down especially if it has hydraulic brakes as if done for too long can wreck your bleed of the system, not to mention wreck your cockpit. Also I would put the skewer in first before putting the bike on but minor issues thanks for the vid.
This winter is about to be sweatyyyyyyyyy 🥵
I've been on ebay looking at fans 🤣 - Looking forward to some winter sessions on zoom/zwift!
Great video. Thanks!
Glad you liked it!
Dec 2023 / Wahoo KICKR Core comes with a cassette and zwift membership for a year!
Thanks for this.
My pleasure! Glad it was helpful 👍🏽
@@JourdainColeman btw, just setting up my kickr core now.. My bike comes with a thru axle.. So i have to use the thru axle from my bike right? Kickr core doesn't come witb a thru axle?
@@taksiobs Hi Ted. Yes, I believe this is the case. GPLama has a video here - czcams.com/video/26mwR6m47TE/video.html&ab_channel=ShaneMiller-GPLama which would likely help you 👍🏽
@@JourdainColeman thanks for confirming.
What is that black piece tool you show at 6:10 that the ratchet and socket fits into called ?
That's a cassette tool 👍🏽
no mention of spacers?
For shimano 12sp is the free hub compatible or need to change it?
How do you know which adapter you need?
Good video. I just never heard of a turbo trainer. What is next? A supercharged trainer?? :)
hahaha... a v12 trainer. 😂 Who knows what's next. Just ad another fancy work add the front and add another naught onto the price
Hi Jourdain, can you recommend the cheapest bike out there that would fit the core and also what cassette to go with said bike? I'm struggling to find cheapo 9,10,11 speed road bikes.
Was like the other person and waiting to see if a new version is going to come out this year but doesn't look like it and not sure how much they could change without infringing more on their regular kickr. Any downsides that you have found from a few months ownerships? Any regrets not going for the kickr (besides the cost)?
Do you need a riser.. I’ve 700mm wheels
Hi @jourdaincoleman - I got the kickrcore but I cant find any small axle adapters like the one you have anywhere, where did you get them from? Thanks!
All the adaptors came in the box for me. In an additional bag with all the goodies
Does it work with Lezyne Mega XL gps?
Thanks for the video - really helpful. I've changed the bike I use with the trainer, do I need to recalibrate the trainer? If so how do I do it? Ta
To be honest, calibration is meant to be done every few weeks form my understanding. I guess there is no harm in frequent calibration. Depending on what trainer you have there are different methods. You can use the Wahoo fitness app if you have a wahoo trainer. You can also do it in Zwift - www.zwift.com/news/3634-how-to-calibrate-your-smart-trainier?__znl=en-gb
I hope that helps 👍🏽
Thanks for the great video. Do you have to use the Kickr in combination with a third-party app, like Zwift? Or can you just do it without?
yeah, you will need an app of some sort to control the kickr. If you hop on and nothing is controlling it then you will just spin at the same speed. Changing gears won't do anything really. I tent to use Zwift, it make cycling indoor much more enjoyable
@@JourdainColeman But is it correct that you have to pay a monthly subscription for Zwift?
What is the torque setting for the cassette locking ring ?
40nm 👍🏽
@@JourdainColeman Thank you
How do you take the cassette apart before installing it on the core? Thanks
You can check my video here on installing and removing a cassette - czcams.com/video/sN7trJUngwI/video.html - i hope that helps.
Hi. Just got one of these and I was wondering if the vibration i have is normal. Listening to your sound test it seems like it's about the same with mine. But to be sure, do you also feel it on the saddle and handlebars like I do?
Thanks!
I can feel vibrations but not too extreme. The amount of vibration will vary from bike to bike depending on gearing etc. Mine is pretty robust and has take some punishment over the last few months. One thing I have noticed is the rubber connectors on the end of the feet wiggle loose. This can cause the trainer to be uneven. Which could cause more vibration. Hope you are enjoying and getting on well with your trainer.
@@JourdainColeman Got it, thanks!
Where do u have the Ipad where riding?? or i dont have an ipad but maybe via my mobile phone?
Now I use my computer on my desk to run zwift. Previously though I have looked at ipad stands. There are also mounts that connect to your bars and give you a little shelf for phone etc.
Hi….I set my Kickr Core up today but the resistance feels higher than on the road as much as two gears lower on a 6% climb…I have the ERG set to smoothing like in your video any ideas please!?
I've not experienced that before. Do the lower gears represent a higher wattage compared to the road? It does take some getting used to to be honest. You could always try a calibration and see if that helps
@@JourdainColeman Thank you. I did a calibration on setup, The overall effort needed for the ride definitely felt more than if I was riding on the road.
Hey Jourdain, thanks for posting this. However I have a question. So I have followed steps exactly. But when I mount the bike the chain (and pedal stroke) is very stiff, the chain is grinding against the bike frame itself. I can't understand it, i've got the adaptors in correctly. on both sides So as a test i turn the pedals backwards and the cassette spins backwards. However then when i tighten the quick release it's altogether too tight. any suggestions welcome ?!
Hey Loe, it sounds like there is an issue somewhere 🤔 - Firstly, how many gears does your cassette have? Is it a standard 11 speed or something different? Is your bike disc brake or rim brake?
It could be a simple issue with the way the bike is sitting. When you tighten the quick release, push down on the saddle. I find it easier to put my body weight on the saddle whilst tightening the quick release. Also, go behind the bike and look to make sure that it is vertical, if it's leaning, this could be the cause.
The chain should not be hitting the frame so something is wrong, where is the chain hitting the frame?
If it's easier message me on Instagram and send pictures - instagram.com/jourdaincoleman/
@@JourdainColeman Hi again. Thanks a lot for replying - i sent you mesasge on instagram thank you
Im waiting for the Eurobike announcements next month, 3 years have passed since the core came out, they will probably announce a new version so im struggling not to buy one since march, ugh.
Interesting. i didn't know that there was a new one coming out soon. To be honest, this one is working pretty well for me so I'm pleased overall. 👌🏾
@@JourdainColeman Returning here to let u know that eurobike ended today without wahoo announcing any new trainer. Wahoo actually didnt take part at all. There are huge supply chain problems due to covid so now is not the time for a new trainer announcement. Im getting a kickr core this week. Winter is coming ;)
What is the propose of the small ring you call Spacer ? I setup exactly like this but my chain and my cassette keep making loudly noise :(
Hey Son, what speed is you r bike? (How many rings at the back)
The spacer will be used if you have 8,9 or 10 speed (if my memory server me correctly). So if you have 8,9 or 10 speed the spacer will go on first before the cassette. If you have 11 speed then there is no spacer needed.
I hope that helps. It's alittle confusing when it comes to cassette compatability. I would advise have a good old Google to get to grips with it.
As for the noise, turbos aren't silient. But if you think there is wexxessive noise then I'd double check everyhting is installed correcltly.
@@JourdainColeman thank you, I have a 11 speed. Maybe it is something wrong with my cassette, I will try to reinstall it again
Hi, do you remember it’s weight when it was in the box?
Good question! The weight of the kickr Core is 18kg. So in the box it was probably around 22kg. It's pretty heavy to be honest. I guess it needs to be to keep stable.
@@JourdainColeman Thanks so much, just ordered one while on holiday and was wondering if it would meet the weight requirement for the flight back home. Thanks again
I don't know that for some reason after I set up my kicker core, I can't see a "power" tab on my wahoo app
That's annoying. I'm not sure what the issue could be. Are you using Ant+ or Bluetooth. I've always found that using Ant+ gives a better connection.
Hopefully you have it sorted by now though?
does the trainer come with the cassette?
Hey Joe, no the traininer doenst come with a csssette. You need to buy them sperately.
@@JourdainColeman most bike shops don’t sell 11 speed cassette cause of the shortage
@@RMD992-f2n Yeah, it's hard at the moment. I would advise looking on Ebay. There seem to be some sellers on there who specialise in bike parts. Maybe you can find one on the off change.
I’m enjoying the bike so far czcams.com/users/postUgkxMesz3KOGEmwmvyKQfLfrRSUXLFzfVHZA My only real complaints are the brakes and the pedals. I feel like a bike designed for bigger people should have much larger pedals and more heavy duty brakes. I’ve only gotten two really good rides out of it, minimal downhill action, and the brakes feel like they’re already going out. A larger person has more momentum, so I think this wasn’t thought through very well. Also, I wear size 13-14 wide shoes. My feet cramp up on these pedals that are clearly made for smaller feet. Since I’m not a pro rider (and I don’t think many are who purchase this bike) I don’t think that the straps on the pedal are necessary at all. None of this takes away from the enjoyment I get from riding, however. I’ll just head to a bike shop to improve on a few things.
get a kickr V6 with a disk brakes roadie and then we talk business !!!