Tacx BOOST Bike Trainer Review // Setup, How it Rides, Sound Check, and Zwift
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- Опубліковано 22 лип 2024
- In-depth review of the Tacx Boost bike trainer including full setup, ride feel impressions, sound samples, and getting how to get set up on Zwift. You can get the Boost Trainer here: geni.us/tacxboost (Amazon affiliate link)
Thanks for watching!
/// Gear I Use (Amazon links) ///
Wearable: geni.us/rAaay
Bike GPS: geni.us/edge830
Chest Heart Rate Strap: geni.us/4IgDIh
Arm Heart Rate Strap: geni.us/nZYvx
Headphones: geni.us/jaybirdvista
/// Connect & Updates ///
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Videos may contain affiliate links which can help support and grow this channel with no extra cost to you. Thanks for your continued support. - Спорт
![Garmin/Tacx Updates: Boost Bundle [Budget Trainer] // Discontinued Trainers // Software Integration](/img/n.gif)
Des the real MVP..clear concise without BS and honest
Thanks!
Thank you, I absolutely would not have been able to set up my Booster without this video (although you did rather too quickly slide over some of the trickier bits of setting up), and equally helpful are the parts about riding it.
Incredibly helpful review as I shop around for my first indoor trainer that's compatible with Zwift! Thank you!
Glad the information helped! Thanks!
Im comparing them too, which model you choose in the end?
What a freaking good review. Covered everything i wanted to know. Good job👍👍
Glad it helped. Thanks!
Thank you for the video!!! You provide me more clearance and info than Garmin support itself :D
Gonna get one!
~Cheers from portugal!
Very informative. Great review.
Glad the information helped! Thanks!
Awesome review. Thanks!
Sure thing!
After watching the DCR review yesterday, I was just waiting to see the vacuum cleaner :-D
😂 We had a good laugh about it, for sure!
Hi! Thanks for the excellent video. Do you know if is there to much difference with the Flux 2 Smart ?
I am using Tacx Blue Motion with Garmin speed sensor, cadence and HR, and using it on setting 4 as that's what Zwift tells me to do. It really bugs me to know how precise my power readings are compared to a reall power meter.
Helpful information, thank you
Happy to help, thanks!
This was awesome, I’m considering this as an option over the indoor cycling bikes 🤙🏽
Nice! Thanks!
Daniel. Love the profile pic. Was looking for a review in this and was like oh hey! Their new album is sick.
@@TCraigoo thanks brotha! I’ve got to make time to listen, there’s just so much music out now 🤘🏽
Hi, thanks for this view on TACX BOOST, i have the same one but it doesnt register my speed correctly on Zwift. When i connect it to the TACX app my speed is 30km/h and in Zwift its like 20km/h. I even connected a CADENCE sensor to it but still its not good. In real life i cycle alot and get 35 km on 1h05m. When i select the same profile of map on zwift i get like 19km on the same time... Im i doing something wrong here?
Hi. So I would like to know in your opinion which is the best. Tak flow smart or tak booster bundle? And my second question is tak flow smart simulate slope of 6 % , the tak booster bundle simulate slopes too or the app zwift help for that. I'm a beginner cyclist. Thank you for your answer.
Does this trainer/all bike trainer have modes like uphill,downhill and flat surface? Is the resistance youre talking about the uphill/downhill mode?
You're awesome, thanks!!!
Sure thing, thanks!
Thank you so much. This very handy after an ACL surgery.
Sure thing and wishing you a speedy recovery!
@@DesFit thank you. I did only 7miles today but it’s not bad after 18months and 3 surgeries
Hi, quick question, how do I connect a one speed/fixie to it??
Amazing review as always des :) May i ask you whats your Current FTP if you don't mind it ?
Thanks! Last time I tested I was at 290.
Can it be used with a single speed track bike? and with zwift? thanks, nice video btw!
DESFIT IS THE GOAT!!!
Ha! Thanks so much!
Great review, thanks, I was wondering about this unit, and I think I want one for Christmas. Do you know if you could use an MTB with it?
Yup! You'll have to get a smooth tire of course, but it will work with both 29er as well as 26, along with 700c road. Thanks!
I have a Trek Domane AL 3 with a 12x165 1.75 thread axle. I’m not sure which adapter to get. Please help!
I got the Tacx Boost Bundle which included a Garmin Speed Sensor 2 Gen3 BSCM Version 4.73.4 which uses Garmin Connect on my Android phone (I paired it via Garmin Connect App). It auto records my Cycling Time after the ride but not the speed or distance (I am assuming ascent needs a cadence recorder?) - I cannot find anything about setting up wheel size but the product is on the metal bit in the middle of the back wheel anyway - is there something different I need to be doing? Is it supposed to tell me distance and average speed (as well as the time) after the ride has ended? Thanks
Hello! I just received this and have it all assembled. I did notice that the noise is pretty loud, making a whining noise. Any way to fix that?
Glad that you're telling people to get their bike securely into the trainer. I was teaching a spin class once and popped out of the trainer and crashed. Yup, crashed on a trainer. First and last time I teach a spin class. Embarrassment level 20.
Yikes! You can blame it on “dose watts tho”. Luckily, I only taught classes with actual spin bikes back in the day. Much easier!
You certainly qualify for the Darwin Award! :D)))
@@DilbertMuc - My pride is still bruised and only confess my most embarrassing secrets on DesFit's UA-cam comments. It's the only safe place.
Hi
Can You tell if i want to use this type od trainer i need to buy a new tires or i can ride on tires which i have on my bike and can You tell me is this trainer can endure the weight more or less 120-130kg
I have a Boardman URB 8.6 Urban Hybrid Bike which has a Shimano SL-3S41E Revo shift, 3-speed. Will it still work?
Curious, will my 24" bike also fits this or too small?
I lost the pin to attach the handle speed control, where could I buy it?
On my boost Im having a knocking sensation coming from the resistance unit. I had a replacement sent to me and that one did it also. Has anyone else experienced this?
thanks for the video, really clear. which Garmin speed meter do you recommend to connect it with zwift? gracias
If you’re using a device with Bluetooth to run Zwift you’ll need the Speed Sensor 2 but if your device has ANT+ you could use either the original speed sensor or the SS2. If you purchase the Boost bundle it comes with the SS2. Thanks!
This was super helpful! What gear should the actual bike be on when using the trainer?
Just whatever gear suits your legs at the moment, just like any other riding. 👍 Thanks!
I still cannot adjust resistance unit to touch the wheel. Knob which regulates the height is completely loose and it does not matter in which direction I turn, it does not do anything.
Hi, does Tacx's roller last or does it wear down like cheese?
Is it a good buget trainer? Can I do +10 hours a week?
This trainer does not appear on my zwift app, not sure why. Speed sensor is working because it is paired to my Garmin 820 ????
I ordered one of these today. I have ordered along side a garmin speed and cadence sensors. Do i need a power metre or am i set to go via Zwift? Also, I have 700cx28 tyres on my road bike. Will the blue trainer tyre fit - it says 700cx23?
Hope you can help...
A power meter would provide the most accurate data but a trainer with a speed/cadence sensor will definitely get you going just fine. In regards to your tire, no worries there. You can use anything from a 26 inch bike, 700c, or 29er as long as it’s a smooth tire. And good call on getting the trainer tire to save your outside tire.
Thank you for sharing, how to minimize the noise level, it's disturbing my neighbours
how do we set it up for disc bike??
What's the maximum tire width that can be used out of the box? I'm aware of special training tires but I would like to use my street tires for casual indoor training. I'm using a trekking bike with 700x2.35" (60-622)
that is a question i have also. i have 2.4 rear on a MTB. did you find the answer ?
@@IanRamon I ended up using a dedicated bike and a 30mm trainer tire from Vittoria
Do you recommend this instead of tacx flow smart?
My goal is start training more indoor due to I do not have enough time to go out.
Thanks
I’d go for the Flow Smart since it has automatically controlled resistance
Great video! Can you use this trainer with a disk brake bike?
Yup, should be just fine. Thanks!
Does it work with Kinomap?
Is it possible to use a mountain bike?
Hi, I bought one of these units after your review but it seems the thru adapter required for my bike is not included in the package. Would you know which thru adapter would fit my bike? I have specialised diverge expert carbon 2022
Did you solve this issue
@@normadicn5700 nope
Shame you didn't include how to set up the speed sensor and exactly where I position it.
my RPM is like 80-85, watt is like 120-135 in zwift but on other apps it registers some other figures. RPM is then 90-105 and watt is like at least 160-200 while i see u getting above 200 watt in the video
Would you recommend to keep the trainer axle permanently on the bike for easy on and off training?
Yup, that certainly makes it more convenient for quicker install.
I have a question. How is it with cycling uphill in zwift ? Does zwift notify you before a steep climb to set your resistance accordingly so you can get the most out of it?
The grade is displayed in Zwift and there's also an elevation profile but the resistance is controlled manually.
2 questions. Is it possible to use this trainer with a track bike? And would I need the bundle version to be able to use swift or can I use the standard version as well?
Have you found something, that is working with a track bike?
Hello, can I use this with my MTB bike 28 wheels?
It should work OK with the 29" wheel setting.
Just installed mine. But the magnetic rolling resistance is kind of "clunky". It's smooth for 1/4 pedal stroke. Then clunky the 3/4 pedal stroke. Is that normal? I'm used to being on rollers, where it's a consistent "smoothness" when pedaling
Hmm, I would play around with the tension adjustment and see if it’s too loose or too tight.
@@DesFit I'll give that a shot!
👍
What do you recommend as good middle of the road smart bike trainer?
The Elite Suito or Wahoo Kickr Core are good options
This Trainer for QR rim brake bike, but is there a thru axle adaptor or something?
Yup @ 2:50 👍 Hope that helps!
Is it possible to ride alpe de swift with boost trainer with speed and cadans sensor
Yes but you will have to control resistance manually. Also, virtual power will be capped at 400 watts if you do not have an actual power meter (pedal, crank, or hub).
Will you do a review on the ticwatch pro 3?
Yup! I’ve had it for a while now but have been too busy with other devices at the moment, but it’s in the queue! Thanks!
@@DesFit will you do it before Christmas?
Unfortunately not. Too many other videos in the works.
Can 20 inch wheel be used ? Please let me know.
Works with 26-29 inch wheels
Hello, what kind of tire do you recommend for a mountain bike
This one would be a good option: amzn.to/2LWBRwa (Amazon affiliate link)
@@DesFit thank you
Hi, thank for the review, I just bougth the boost in garmin store but it is 440 usd without speed sensor (I Am from Chile, South America). You just said that is basically the same the boost and the booster, the booster here cost 100 usd less, what would you recomend? Change the boost for the booster and save some money ?? Again thanks for your video
Yup, save your money and go with the Booster. It’s only the paint scheme that’s different. 👍 Thanks!
@@DesFit thanks!!!!
Sure thing!
Hola Sebastian, te puedo contactar para preguntar sobre tu experiencia con este modelo? estoy evaluando comprar el Boost Bundle. Gracias!
@@mariosebastianpena108 finalmente compre el flux 2, con transmisión directa. Espectacular 👌
Do they make one not in Dodger Blue? Because this is illegal in my area. ==);^]
Ha!
Do you know how to find if your bike is compatible with this? Garmin said there support page would list it... But that left me at a dead end.
What kind of bike do you have? Pretty much all 130/135mm QR bikes & 12 x 142mm thru axle bikes should work.
@@DesFit it's a Kent 700c Roadtech. I would imagine I should be good to go? And shouldn't need anything extra outside of the package? Thanks for such a quick reply!
Your bike has a bolt on axle and although it’s not listed as being compatible with the Boost there is a high likelihood of it working. Not 100% guaranteed though so I’d recommend getting it from somewhere that has a good return policy just in case.
@@DesFit thank you!
Do you need to remove the back wheel to install this? If not then a really good looking product!
Nope, this is wheel-on trainer so your back wheel stays on 👍
@@DesFit I chkeced the manual for this device and the part liist inclucdx re
That’s just the quick release. You should not have to remove your rear wheel, only replace the QR if needed.
@@DesFit Thanks alot!, ordered one.
Does this work for Mountainbikes?
If you switch out your knobby tire with a smooth tire, yes
So we can see 3 issues with the Tacx setup:
1.) Zwift gets the power curves from Tacx. Power is calculated reading the speed sensor, preset and the power curve. So either the power curve is faulty or the calibration of the magnets to the aluminum disc is faulty.
2.) The speed sensor is crap as we can see that it interpolates the readings and sends a calculated average speed via Bluetooth. A power increase is delayed as it takes several rotations for the new average. Power spikes are smoothed out and finally lost because of the average delay.
3.) Power is capped at 400 Watt. However, the Boost can easily break at 1050 Watt and it has no hysteresis since it is purely mechanical and has no connection to Zwift or Tacx. I use an older Tacx S&C sensor and it goes way beyond that mark.
It would be good if you could try a different speed sensor for a new verification test.
I tested it with a first gen Garmin Speed Sensor, a Speed Sensor 2, and a Wahoo. All yielded similar results.
@@DesFit Something wrong is going on here. The Boost contains an aluminum disc and 8-10 permanent magnets which can be moved towards the disc with the preset switch (0-10). The magnets induce an eddy current in the conductable alu disc and that slows down the disc. The closer the magnets are the higher the eddy currents. It is directly linear. The Boost lists 1050 Watt Power, which means at 40 km/h it needs 1050 Watts to maintain the speed. There is no upper limit as it is pure mechanical. If one puts an ebike with a 3000W motor on the Boost, it would rotate the disc at 3000W until the disc heats up to 800°C and melts away.
There is only the speed sensor and a pre-defined power chart to calculate the virtual power. So it is a software problem that defines the inconsistencies with power caps at 392W (oddly that's a binary number) and slow power curve.
I'd rather say that the devices are not calibrated to the power curves (2 is too high, 3 is too low. At GP Lama's channel it was the opposite)
The speed sensors need a few rotations to calculate an avg. speed and transmit it to the computer and therefore by definition can't cope with wattage spikes during training.
If the sensors are accurate and transmit each single rotation then the Zwift or Tacx software is faulty because it takes a few round inputs and calculates the avg. speed for power. By definition that can't cope with power spikes.
Is the Tacx boost trainer also compatibel for my gravel bike?
You'd have to get a smooth tire, preferably a trainer specific tire but should work just fine with that.
Deutsche Übersetzung?
Can I used it with my MTB ?
If you were to switch your rear tire out for a smooth tire, yup, should work just fine.
@@DesFit so I cannot use my normal MTB rear tire then?
No, it would be too rough on the roller.
@@DesFit ok, that applies to all similar trainers right?
Anything with a roller, yes. The most ideal setup with be a direct drive trainer if you don’t want to have a switch out an MTB tire for a smooth one.
Got it all set up via Bluetooth to my phone. My avatar doesn’t move though. It’s weird. Bluetooth is connected Ok.
that wheel is really close to the floor. may be a problem with rug floors
Could be, but having the trainer on a rug vs a trainer mat may not be the best thing with regards to sweat.
Turbo tyres don't heat up.but don't use on the road.its only for this.
Ajustment cable pulled out the lever after 30 min .Avoid .
The step at 2.30 is a BEAR. You have to do it blind and it doesn't snap in. It took me a dozen tries with trial and error. It's really a very bad design
For anyone considering to buy this trainer, don’t do it. The trainer ist not very good and it’s way overpriced. It’s very loud and my neighbors complained about it. Also for me the power numbers where trash and every thing above 300 to some times 400 Watts just didn’t show up. Just 0 w. That’s kind of bad because personally I hit that numbers quiet often on climbs in zwift. And for sprints this whole thing just don’t work. It’s very unstable and over 550+- W I feared to fall over. Also for me the unboxing and assembly wasn’t as “easy” as explained and I find that a lot of bikes aren’t compatible or you have to buy some expensive adapters. It’s just the price which makes this trainer not really good. Like 2020 for that much there should be the disc brake adapter included because a lot of bikes have disc nowadays. In my opinion the trainer was way to bad and I send it back after some weeks of testing. Then I just looked for used smart trainers on eBay and found a lot of offers for trainers like the Tacx flux smart or the elite suito. These offers where about 20-30 bucks more than a new Tacx booster so I bought myself a 1 year old Tacx flux smart for just 15 bucks more. This was the best decision of my life and the new trainer is way better in every aspect. It’s very quiet and is really ready to use out of the box.
thank you
thank you. what was your other option after this?
What did you pick the Tacx flux smart for ? Price ?
So short review, there is no way thet someone who watched thin, can alone install it at home
$300+ for a dumb trainer doesn't make sense. All up and ready to play on zwift it'll be closer to $400, a wahoo snap or Saris m2 retail for $499 and offer massively better integration with that platform.
Provided you can find them of course. If not or your budget is specifically constrained, zwift has a list of supported dumb trainers, most (all?) cost less and offer the same.
To expensive and loud.
This is infuriating to put together if you never used a turbo trainer before and weren’t born on the bike.
Booooooring
😴
Could you please tell me the size of the compatible wheels?
what axle to use if my rear wheel is 148mm x 12mm?
i try to use 142 and it doesnt fit please help?