I've had my Neo Bike for 18 months - it was a massive upgrade coming from a Direto XR - almost luxury. It is absolutely silent, comfy once your position is adjusted to your dimensions. As stated in the video, it is a tank but has rollers on the back so you can move it around if need be. With a recent software update steering is now implemented via 2 little blue buttons on the inside of the brake calipers. I love using the brakes to for putting more power into the bike beyond the gearing. I use compact gearing but extend my cassette to 34. I set 'road feel' sensitivity to 60%. I have a Stream Deck up where Eric's cell phone was and use that for interacting with Zwift. The setup sits before my workbench which has a 32" 4k display + arm mount that rotates for my use when riding. Speakers built in. Love it, hope we get 10hz power update in software soon! Great video! Under rated hardware.
Couldn’t agree with you more - it’s definitely been one of my better purchases. Your setup sounds awesome, I was thinking that spot would be perfect for a stream deck. Do you have (or intend to get/make) a rocker plate?
I don't subscribe to many channels, especially smaller channels that are documenting their fitness journey, but your videos are well produced, informative, and the content is a fresh take from a bit of a "new comer". Won't promise to watch every video, but keep up the good work and this channel can turn into something special.
Thank so much @vanskater362! I’m learning, both how to be a better cyclist and better TH-camr! With so much great encouragement from people like yourself, I know I can grow!
Excellent video, excellent analysis of your time spent with the Tacx bike! You almost convinced me to buy my own Tacx Neo Smart! Cheers from Switzerland.
Es ist absolut genial. Heute war ich im Intersport und wollte mir eigentlich nur einen günstigen Ergometer testen und kaufen. Hatte mich diesbezüglich eigentlich schon entschieden. Dann stand da noch ein Tacx Neo Bike Plus und habe es auch noch kurz ausprobieren können. Sowas von genial dieses Gerät. Ich war so begeistert von diesem Fahrfeeling, dass ich mir jetzt noch am selben Tag eines bestellt habe (aber die günstigere Smart Version). Das war fahren wie auf einem echten Velo. Ich wusste zuvor gar nicht dass es sowas überhaupt gibt, dann hätte ich mir sowas schon viel früher gekauft 😂
Great job! Thanks for the review. I’ve had this bike for a few years now and completely agree re the simplicity of an indoor trainer. I’ve had a number of issues with the bottom brackets and have exchanged several, but Garmin has been wonderful to deal with. Glad the noise you were hearing went away. Ride on!
Thanks Jeff! I do need to film an update to this review - I'm currently experiencing the left crank arm woes that many Tacx NEO owners have experienced. The initial parts to fix it are on the way - aside from that I've enjoyed the bike!
I am in the process of looking at all the different bikes available and thank you for your review. Everyone seems to have their opinions which can make it very confusing.
Thank you for your video! I really appreciate the content including Zwift and Garmin apps. It can be a bear when you can’t figure out where to go to make a change. Keep spinning!
I seem to recall there was a way to purchase just the shifters, but I can't find it now. Also, I recall the price being way beyond what I was willing to spend.
It really is. There are a few different smart bikes out there, but I already had other Garmin thing this would work with. If I had a second bike I could leave on a trainer, it might have been different. I’m definitely riding way more than I would have if I didn’t have it! Thanks & ride on!
Hi. I am considering buying a Tacx Neo. Is it true that you cannot change or scroll the display setup to show other cycling computer features like avg heart rate, avg speed, calorie count, lap watt, lap time and all those other thing you normally scroll through on a bike computer or run watch?
Hey there! I believe that the numbers shown on the display are static and can’t be changed, aside from changing miles to kilometers. If you’re connecting the bike to a training app like the Garmin one, trainerroad, or Zwift, you can pull that data up in those apps. You can also connect it to a cycling computer and call things up there.
Hi, I didn't hear you mention the seat tube issue anywhere. Don't you have thigh chafing, it seems to me that it is very thick and massive and this will bring discomfort with larger thigh muscles?
Hi, and thanks for your review! Is it normal that if I use it without power, the display shows me the speed, but when I connect it to the power it no longer shows it? Thanks
That does seem a little strange. I’ve only used it with power and Zwift, so maybe my experience is different because of that. Are you using the bike with a program like Zwift, Trainerroad, etc? Speed is a function of the power you are putting out (watts) combined with your weight (usually inputted in the program) and the profile of the course you are riding. Never having ridden the bike purely on its own without Zwift, I don’t know how it would determine a speed.
@@ericbarnettcycling I just bought the bike, so for now I've only tried it without any program like Zwift. I think the speed is determined by the revolutions of the flywheel, like in a common spinning bike. I was wondering why it was possible to view the speed without using electricity, while when connected to the power the data disappears. If I connect it to TacxApp via my iPhone, I only see the speed on my smartphone, but not on the bike. I don't understand why.. anyway thanks for the reply
Hi Eric, thanks for the review. Just got my Tacx Neo Bike and I'm facing some issues with power/cadence: somehow when keeping the same gear and cadence, the watts keep going down. So I have to push harder in a higher gear to maintain that level, till it becomes too much. I'm in contact with Garmin Support but we haven't found a solution yet... we're considering a unit change. Did you have this issue? Thanks
A few questions: are you riding in a program such as Zwift, Rouvy, TrainerRoad, etc? If so, are you doing a workout, race, free ride? Also, do you have the bike paired with the TacX training app to make sure you have the latest firmware installed? You also may be able to run a calibration in that app.
@@ericbarnettcycling it happens on Zwift and standalone: same behaviour on both modes. On Zwift, it happens in every mode because I don't use ERG. Have the Tacx Training App installed with the latest firmware, I've also tried the beta firmware v 4.5 but that hasn't resolve the problem. About the calibration I didn't found the option on the Tacx Neo Bike, from what I read online the Neo series seems haven't a calibration mode (it's auto calibrated).
@@Giulio_G gotcha. You’ve tried all the things I’d have tried - looks like it’s not an easy thing! Garmin support can be frustrating to deal with, especially when you only hear from them on business days. I’d try to get a whole new bike sent. Mine worked right out of the box. The only issue I’ve had is the left crank arm falling off, and they traded out my bike for a new one when that happened.
They sent a refurbished one as a replacement. No more problems so far. I’m still happy with the purchase - glad I went with a dedicated all-in-one bike rather than having to swap out a road bike.
@@ericbarnettcycling I was joking but honestly when it comes to getting your next bike just take a look. Just a solid machine. All the best from the UK.
Yes, with the latest firmware update from Garmin. You can see it in any of my recent Zwift race livestreams. Top left corner of the screen, under the power, cadence, and heart rate. New firmware also allows steering from the Tacx - no need to buy the Zwift Play controllers.
I've had my Neo Bike for 18 months - it was a massive upgrade coming from a Direto XR - almost luxury. It is absolutely silent, comfy once your position is adjusted to your dimensions. As stated in the video, it is a tank but has rollers on the back so you can move it around if need be. With a recent software update steering is now implemented via 2 little blue buttons on the inside of the brake calipers. I love using the brakes to for putting more power into the bike beyond the gearing. I use compact gearing but extend my cassette to 34. I set 'road feel' sensitivity to 60%. I have a Stream Deck up where Eric's cell phone was and use that for interacting with Zwift. The setup sits before my workbench which has a 32" 4k display + arm mount that rotates for my use when riding. Speakers built in. Love it, hope we get 10hz power update in software soon! Great video! Under rated hardware.
Couldn’t agree with you more - it’s definitely been one of my better purchases. Your setup sounds awesome, I was thinking that spot would be perfect for a stream deck. Do you have (or intend to get/make) a rocker plate?
I don't subscribe to many channels, especially smaller channels that are documenting their fitness journey, but your videos are well produced, informative, and the content is a fresh take from a bit of a "new comer". Won't promise to watch every video, but keep up the good work and this channel can turn into something special.
Thank so much @vanskater362! I’m learning, both how to be a better cyclist and better TH-camr! With so much great encouragement from people like yourself, I know I can grow!
I agree
Excellent video, excellent analysis of your time spent with the Tacx bike! You almost convinced me to buy my own Tacx Neo Smart! Cheers from Switzerland.
Thank you - I’m still happy I bought it!
Es ist absolut genial. Heute war ich im Intersport und wollte mir eigentlich nur einen günstigen Ergometer testen und kaufen. Hatte mich diesbezüglich eigentlich schon entschieden. Dann stand da noch ein Tacx Neo Bike Plus und habe es auch noch kurz ausprobieren können. Sowas von genial dieses Gerät. Ich war so begeistert von diesem Fahrfeeling, dass ich mir jetzt noch am selben Tag eines bestellt habe (aber die günstigere Smart Version). Das war fahren wie auf einem echten Velo. Ich wusste zuvor gar nicht dass es sowas überhaupt gibt, dann hätte ich mir sowas schon viel früher gekauft 😂
Great job! Thanks for the review. I’ve had this bike for a few years now and completely agree re the simplicity of an indoor trainer. I’ve had a number of issues with the bottom brackets and have exchanged several, but Garmin has been wonderful to deal with. Glad the noise you were hearing went away. Ride on!
Thanks Jeff! I do need to film an update to this review - I'm currently experiencing the left crank arm woes that many Tacx NEO owners have experienced. The initial parts to fix it are on the way - aside from that I've enjoyed the bike!
@@ericbarnettcycling Have you tightened that crank to 14.5nm (I believe that's the number...)? That was the issue for me once or twice.
I am in the process of looking at all the different bikes available and thank you for your review. Everyone seems to have their opinions which can make it very confusing.
It’s definitely an expensive option and I haven’t tried others, but I love it! Does all I’ll ever need and more!
Thank you for your video! I really appreciate the content including Zwift and Garmin apps. It can be a bear when you can’t figure out where to go to make a change. Keep spinning!
Thanks, Donald. I’m still figuring it out, but thought people would like to see a review from an average rider’s perspective!
Great video Eric! Thank you! 🎉❤
Thanks Freddy!
Garmin should support its customers by offering an ability to purchase upgraded shifters like on the Plus version.
I seem to recall there was a way to purchase just the shifters, but I can't find it now. Also, I recall the price being way beyond what I was willing to spend.
Good job with the review. I always hated putting my bike on and off the trainer, something like this looks real convenient.
It really is. There are a few different smart bikes out there, but I already had other Garmin thing this would work with. If I had a second bike I could leave on a trainer, it might have been different. I’m definitely riding way more than I would have if I didn’t have it! Thanks & ride on!
Hola
@@ricardocarralsutil5714 hi!
Hi, I got same bike today but my box hasn't got any Pedals. Are your padels in the package or add-ons?
Hi. I am considering buying a Tacx Neo. Is it true that you cannot change or scroll the display setup to show other cycling computer features like avg heart rate, avg speed, calorie count, lap watt, lap time and all those other thing you normally scroll through on a bike computer or run watch?
Hey there! I believe that the numbers shown on the display are static and can’t be changed, aside from changing miles to kilometers. If you’re connecting the bike to a training app like the Garmin one, trainerroad, or Zwift, you can pull that data up in those apps. You can also connect it to a cycling computer and call things up there.
Hi, I didn't hear you mention the seat tube issue anywhere. Don't you have thigh chafing, it seems to me that it is very thick and massive and this will bring discomfort with larger thigh muscles?
I've never had that issue, though I've heard of those who have. My thighs aren't super thicc, though...
Hi, and thanks for your review! Is it normal that if I use it without power, the display shows me the speed, but when I connect it to the power it no longer shows it? Thanks
That does seem a little strange. I’ve only used it with power and Zwift, so maybe my experience is different because of that. Are you using the bike with a program like Zwift, Trainerroad, etc? Speed is a function of the power you are putting out (watts) combined with your weight (usually inputted in the program) and the profile of the course you are riding. Never having ridden the bike purely on its own without Zwift, I don’t know how it would determine a speed.
@@ericbarnettcycling I just bought the bike, so for now I've only tried it without any program like Zwift. I think the speed is determined by the revolutions of the flywheel, like in a common spinning bike. I was wondering why it was possible to view the speed without using electricity, while when connected to the power the data disappears. If I connect it to TacxApp via my iPhone, I only see the speed on my smartphone, but not on the bike. I don't understand why.. anyway thanks for the reply
Hi Eric, thanks for the review. Just got my Tacx Neo Bike and I'm facing some issues with power/cadence: somehow when keeping the same gear and cadence, the watts keep going down. So I have to push harder in a higher gear to maintain that level, till it becomes too much.
I'm in contact with Garmin Support but we haven't found a solution yet... we're considering a unit change.
Did you have this issue? Thanks
A few questions: are you riding in a program such as Zwift, Rouvy, TrainerRoad, etc? If so, are you doing a workout, race, free ride? Also, do you have the bike paired with the TacX training app to make sure you have the latest firmware installed? You also may be able to run a calibration in that app.
@@ericbarnettcycling it happens on Zwift and standalone: same behaviour on both modes. On Zwift, it happens in every mode because I don't use ERG.
Have the Tacx Training App installed with the latest firmware, I've also tried the beta firmware v 4.5 but that hasn't resolve the problem.
About the calibration I didn't found the option on the Tacx Neo Bike, from what I read online the Neo series seems haven't a calibration mode (it's auto calibrated).
@@Giulio_G gotcha. You’ve tried all the things I’d have tried - looks like it’s not an easy thing! Garmin support can be frustrating to deal with, especially when you only hear from them on business days. I’d try to get a whole new bike sent. Mine worked right out of the box. The only issue I’ve had is the left crank arm falling off, and they traded out my bike for a new one when that happened.
@@ericbarnettcycling ok thanks a lot for the reply. I'll try to get a new unit and I'll hope to resolve the issue.
See you in Watopia 💪👍
Did Garmin fix your Tacx? If yes, happy with it?
They sent a refurbished one as a replacement. No more problems so far. I’m still happy with the purchase - glad I went with a dedicated all-in-one bike rather than having to swap out a road bike.
I'll keep saying tacX. More fun to say
It does make it sound fancier
Get yourself a Wattbike. Built like a tank
At this point, I'm tied to the Tacx. I could only return it within the first 30 days.
@@ericbarnettcycling I was joking but honestly when it comes to getting your next bike just take a look. Just a solid machine. All the best from the UK.
Does this suit a 5ft5 rider? I normally ride Giant Trance X in Small.
There’s a lot of adjustability in the seat, handlebars, & pedals. I’m 5’10” and there’s plenty of room to go up or down from there.
Can this bike show gears on zwift?
Yes, with the latest firmware update from Garmin. You can see it in any of my recent Zwift race livestreams. Top left corner of the screen, under the power, cadence, and heart rate. New firmware also allows steering from the Tacx - no need to buy the Zwift Play controllers.