TACX Vortex Smart Trainer - Unboxing, Building, Ride Review
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 12 ก.ย. 2024
- The full rundown on the Tacx Vortex Smart Trainer. First released in 2014 this is one of the most popular interactive smart trainers in use. I was keen to get some saddle time on something other than the higher end direct drive trainers to see how the Vortex held up against the premium level trainers I have. I was quite surprised!
Links:
Tacx Vortex Buy/Reviews/etc (Amazon US): amzn.to/2y453Jc
Tacx Vortex (Official Tacx Site): goo.gl/jnN4Wi
Tacx Blue Trainer Tyre 23mm 700c (Amazon US): amzn.to/2wSGaeH
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Web: shanemiller.net
Instagram: / gplama
Strava: / strava
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TH-cam: / gplama
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Ah, my beloved Vortex. I'm glad it did well. I'm using it for two years now and it's rock solid.
same. massively improved my time trialling.
John L
Hi im buying this trainer in the next few days and I'll be using the Tacx training videos but I'm wondering do I need a speed sensor on the back wheel or does the video pick up the speed from the trainer itself?
I hear it clicks like crazy, does yours click?
If clicking noise appears just do "super glue fix".
Picked one of these up in the UK for about £225 just prior to the lock down. Best money I've spent on my bike riding in years. Great piece of kit, really agree with the review.
Hi Ollie, I also picked mine up last October from chain reaction as a new customer in sale and got it for 177 euro .... I still cant believe I paid so little for something that feels premium ... so far it's great....
Thank you for this review, Shane! I've been on a plain roller type trainer for a year, but I believe this basic level of interactive resistance will be all the difference I need! Thank you very much for what you do!
Thank you Shane, FINALLY a review I can count on. With the last firmware update, users where saying that the power numbers where off, but now I can say that mine is working as it should. Do I wish I had a kickr or a Neo, Absolutely, but I had to buy a new car and put $1000.00 as a down payment, can I justify paying that kind of money for a top end trainer, unfortunately I can't. Now if I had the extra cash I would do it in a heartbeat, but I'm very happy with my reasonably priced vortex, with one of my aluminum framed bikes permanently fixed to it. I think one thing should be pointed out when it comes to the trainers like the vortex. It's rated at 7% incline if you weigh up to 75kg (165lb). This is an important factor when deciding in purchasing a trainer, and like you said, its rated at 950 watts. More than enough for a reasonably fit rider like myself. I've have not broken 850 watts. Some day I hope to hit higher watts. I'm sure other you tubers would love more reviews on these entry level trainers. There are plenty of us out there that would like your input.
Been looking at this myself for my first trainer, as i live in UK and have limited time to get out and i hate cycling at night. After this i will pick one up, great review
whats your experience so far with this unit?
@@tyydm6g i ended up getting a faulty one and got a taxc flux instead sorry 😁
@@alexzanderkristian1473 you are correct i dont care
Great review, after watching decided to buy it)
and now have it - great value and yes, easy setup, seamless connection, no noise, very nice and quality device. Love it) thank you for review!
Shane, I ride on a vortex which I have had since before you made this Vid. With regard to flywheel effect, if you push a bigger gear in ERG mode at your chosen RPM the wheel and fly wheel will be spinning faster, much more energy in the flywheel for helping smooth those uphill transitions. Doesn't help in non ERG mode though! and I guess it's relative to a bigger flywheel at the same speed etc. Also I think this style of trainer handles the watts in general once they are whipping along a bit, large power at low wheel speeds seem not to be handled as well.
U r absolute right!
@@Dimer81 there is simply more energy in a faster moving flywheel. Interesting science fact: A small body travelling at high speed having the same momentum as a large body at slow speed, has much more energy. Momentum and energy are often confused.
Thanks for doing this one Shane. Added this unit to my wish list. Ride on!
I think i'll invest in this smart trainer, it doesn't do that much of a noise, and it's accessible regarding the price. Thanks Shane
Awesome. Send me an update on how it goes. 🚲👌🏼
I used the Vortex Smart last winter for about 3500 km and I agree with Shane that this one is price performance ratio king. Unfortunately I was never able to align it well with my Quarq Dfour (always 20-25W to low while warming up, and 20-30W to high after an hour or so), so I switched to the Neo for this winter.
Nice rundown. I had a 'pre-smart' Bushido until I got a Drivo last year, very reliable for 6 years or so, and very similar to the Vortex. After a long ride, the metal wheel can get pretty hot. It's very important to remove wheel tension as soon as you stop cycling if you have an expensive tyre on there.
I have the Tacx Genius. Same price as the flux (got it cheaper and before the flux came).. According to Tacx it's a very premium trainer. Would love to see a review of it, how a on wheel top of the end trainer compares to the flux or kickr snap (and even if it can match the neo or kickr in some aspects). Keep the good content comming!
Remi Fjelldal Tacx Genius fantastic machine i did over 2000km on this trainer and works well.
jacek2go I have over 5000km on it myself. And love it, but I have nothing to compare it against.
Remi Fjelldal will be nice if master trainer tester Shane Miller him self could do video about Tacx Genius
I'm looking at getting a new Smart trainer and would be good to get the defacto review on the Genius (got an old i-flow which is great, but missing the control aspects in Zwift). Either Shane or DC's comments would be great
I am a long time Tacx Vortex Smart owner (+3 years) and a lot of us have encountered the problem where the unit starts making terrible noise not long after the unit is out of warranty (2yr warranty). This is due to the metal tire contact ring on the roller coming unglued from the white axle or from the bearings in the unit wearing out (search on youtube for examples). Tacx will not do anything for you if you are 1 day out of warranty. Replacement parts are generally more than 50% the cost of just getting a new trainer. So if you are looking to use this trainer for more than just light usage, then don't expect it to last more than 2 years.
I had the same issue with my Booster trainer and the fix with araldite glue seems to work ok. Not attractive for sure but effective. Still pretty poor though I agree!
Thanks for this, am trying to get into this zwift experience but without knowing where to start I've be at a lose as which to get and what accessories!! Thanks to this video I'm off to get the vortex and training tyre.
Will read more as I am sure I will expand the tools, bits etc to enchance my experience. Thinking tv and fans? maybe these smart pedals which are also new! having not been on a bike for 6 years (kids!) its moved forward a lot! :)
This video may also help for your home setup: th-cam.com/video/U3Pf2DevB90/w-d-xo.html
Just ordered this trainer, zwift here i come
Great review! I’m looking for my first trainer. Do you recommend kickr snap or vortex ?
I learned a couple of things. Thanks.
My advice on tires, if you can run a wider tire do so! I use my cross bike as my trainer bike and am using a 700*30 slick, the wider tire has a larger contact patch so you do not have to put as much pressure on the roller to prevent slippage. This makes for a much smoother ride with less damage to the tire, I've done several trainer sessions in a row with out the tire getting a glossy black look to it, which was common when using 23 or 25s. I ride about 50/50 inside and out through out the winter so I'm not going to use a trainer tire.
How does this compare to the Elite Qubo Digital Smart + trainer? Which one will be your pick? I bought the qubo after seeing your review and love it!
Vortex feels a little more solid and the calibration options are a little easier.
the same question i had)) and i still bought nothing. vortex or qubo omg... what i must do ;(
Евгений Янен think both are great units, out if the box power accuracy is not great in the qubo, it has no calibration process, unless you have a power meter. But I love the fact it's a weight on trainer that does not need tension to be adjusted..
Евгений Янен I also like the fact that the vortex has grooves on the resistance unit making the alignment spot on during assembly, the qubo has no grooves so hard to align the resistance unit on the required position
I do 150 miles a week on this machine, changing the tyre to a trainer tyre makes it a lot quieter.
Ian Payne I agree completely. The noise from mine is nothing like the noise from Shane's. Pretty happy with mine.
Do you think it is acceptable with a dedicated tyre for training in an apartment?
Actually that's a helpful advice. I always thought the trainer tyre was to spare your normal tyre, I didn't know that it is quieter
Its a great unit for the money. The Tacx tyre makes a big difference to the noise levels.
Wow was not expecting it to be that accurate. I had started on one which i didn't realise was constantly reading about 20% over. Finally the penny dropped when I entered an IRL race and realised I was no where near as strong as my results on Zwift... Upgraded to a Neo and felt the big correction like a lot of others. This was quite a while ago, maybe the newer firmware versions have fixed things.
One question because I could not pick up the details on it from the video.
:(
Do you use PowerTap P1 Pedals as a power source for Zwift? Or is Tacx Vortex used as Controllable AND Power Source.
I do not have power meter myself and I am wondering how accurate this trainer is by itself and how my results(i.e: FTP) will vary when I finally buy some power meter.
In general great trainer for the price:)
I bought myself a Tacx Flow Smart about 2 months ago after having a dumb trainer for years and I have to say I have been really impressed with it - ERG mode works fine and the gradient feels relatively real - the noise is a bit of an issue - I have the ergo in my room at Uni and don't like using it after about 8pm as it's quite loud - but it ain't a LeMond Revoultion. All in all was really good considering I only paid £165 for it new.
Nice review, I just got this unit last Friday paid $219 US. It is working nicely =)
Do you remember the code that made it $219? I'm trying to use the code on ChainReactionCycles. It's at $249. Thanks
@@AshishLalani I used a Chrome browser with the Honey Add-in installed. It fetched the code automatically so I don't know what the code was... sorry.
Great video which I'll bookmark for l8r. Hoping to embark on the indoor training Dec. onwards..
I've had the Tacx Vortex since February and when it's on sale it's a great buy for your first trainer, the center roller on mine was making a lot of crackling noises and there are instructions on how to fix it yourself. I reached out to Tacx and they sent me nearly a whole new unit, and they changed the metal roller design, the design they sent me doesn't have holes in the roller which means it won't come detached.
So now I have a trainer that will last a LONG time, I can simply fix the roller with some glue, or use the new unit they sent me.
Very happy with Tacx support, I nearly got a whole new unit out of it, I just have to do some assembly.
Very informative and helped in my decision making.
Thanks!
I have one to. For me it works perfect. I use it for Zwift. My also came with the ipad holder.
you are super strong Shane !!
Great review in detail. thanks
I purchased this on your review Shane a year and a half ago and thank you for the great work you do .
I’d like to progress to next level now and was thinking about a flux 2 but I’m worried about quality issues. Would you stay away from the flux 2 Shane ?
I'm not a fan of the Flux range.
I can confirm the sleeping baby comment ⚡️😳⚡️
I've ridden a lot of the high end trainers & I do appreciate the giant leap in just about every aspect, but as you say for an entry level smart trainer, the ability to get on Zwift & a first experience of power. The Vortex is a great choice.
Worth noting that there are two versions of the Vortex so make sure you get the right one.
Guess a Tacx Neo is on the cards now then...💸🤔💸
2 versions? I'm about to buy a Vortex, but as far as I can tell there's only one version-- Can you explain?
Falling in love with this trainer
Diogo Velosa I’ve just purchased this trainer and my zwift cant find it, do I need an ant dongle?
I dont know mate, I dont have it so far
Sorry 2 stupid questions incoming:
- Did you mention what/where the 10% is? Is that stated by them or;
- Is the 10% something like loss of power due to different measurement - is there loss of power from the pedals, through the drivetrain onto the wheel, onto the thing itself? Compared to your pedals, which might measure more directly? Hope that makes sense, thanks for that.
Accuracy spec is published by the manufacturer. 10%... because there's a lot to factor in with a wheel-on trainer. Also the quality of components used.
Hey Shane, great content as always. Would you recommend this trainer? I just recently bought a dual legged pioneer power meter and I'm looking to buy a well built, solid trainer for the upcoming winter months. Thanks!
Depends on your budget and what kind of power you're putting out. Look at the direct drive options if you can stretch the $. If not, this is a good starting point for sure.
I'll get my Vortex tomorrow, aided with your convincing video! I'm so looking forward to it :D
It will be my first indoor trainer, so I don't have any experience with it and have some questions:
- Is there a way to tell in advance how tight the wheel should press to the cylinder of the Vortex while setting it up? For example "the tyre should be pressed in over approximately 2mm" before you start a calibration?
- If it's set too loose or too tight, you have to do the Tacx standard calibration over again, I guess? And over and over, untill it's right?
- Would there be a difference between "perfectly in the green zone" or "the edge of the green zone" of those calibrations?
- You rode 10 minutes as a warming up before you did the Tacx standard calibration. I guess it's best to ride that warming up at a pace which corresponds to my current training zones (based on heart rates), to be most representative for the to-be-expected tyre temperatures? Or should I heat them up as much as possible?
- The special Tacx Training Tyres are said to warm up less (or slower, I don't know exactly). Would 10 minutes of warming up before calibration be sufficient in that case too, or should you warm up longer to get realistic power readings? (I don't own a power meter, so I can't control the power)
- Tight enough that it won's slip on accelerations/sprints.
- Yes.
- I'm not sure, that's one for Tacx Support.
- 10 minutes of standard riding should be enough. Don't overthink it too much, focus on the ride/training. :)
- 10 minutes is usually optimal regardless of tyre. Give it a shot. Perform your own tests, it's all good training.
If the calibration is a concern then look at getting yourself an on-bike power meter.
Thanks a lot for your fast response!
I accept the uncertainties of the power output, but I just want to reduce the errors as much as possible ;)
Thanks for a really great review. I haven’t had one of these trainers for 30 years. My big problem with the ones I had from years ago was the vibration. It always put my privets to sleep after 20 minutes. How does this trainer do in that department? Thanks!
No issues with this unit.
Not sure why Garmin have discontinued the Vortex but kept the Flow (a less impressive trainer). Come to think of it the Bushido looked even better than both and tacx discontinued it (not sure if it was smart though, I never tried it).
Great vid Shane, delighted you looked at this as well. How do you think it stacks up vs the elite rampa? I can get either for roughly same price
See here: gplama.blogspot.com.au/p/indoor-trainer-guide-gplama.html#tacxvortex
Hi Shane, Aussie living in Netherlands needing a way to ride indoors this winter. This review and the Elite Qubo are a few years old now. Would you recommend one of these as an entry to Zwift still as they can be bought for under £200 / 250€ now?
Hey Shane- I just got mine and similarly struggled with the same part as you. Everything seems good, but it's significantly more wobbly than my old, cheap, dumb trainer. I usually have an old yoga mat under it, which I thought might just be too soft, but even on the hard floor it wobbles a lot. Is there something wrong with mine? Yours seems very stable.
Pretty nice results Shane. I am not having so good power results with my Tacx Vortex Smart Trainer. Comparing the results from the trainer and the Ultegra Stages Power Meter RL, the trainer shows 50W - 100W more than the stages, in the range of 200W to 400W. I am pretty disapointed and I don't know what to belive...
Both (trainer and stages) are updated and calibrated. It is really anoyng.
Hi Shane. I’m loving the videos! What are your thoughts between this and the Tacx Flow? I can get both here in the UK for about the same price and am going to be using for my first taste of Zwift on my indoor set up. Thanks.
It's been a while since I did these videos. I don't think you can go wrong with either as a first trainer. It depends what is compatible with your bike. Test ride either this or the Flow if you can.
Thanks for that. Is there an alternative that I am missing? I can get the Bushido for an extra £50 here in the UK but I am thinking that if I get into Zwift then I will probably upgrade to a higher end smart trainer for next winter. I have my old Cannondale Caad8 that I am planning on using with it so I don’t know if that is a factor. I’ve just seen the video on the Kickr snap and I’m tempted to go for that although here in the UK it is almost over twice the price of the Vortex/Flow/Bushido.
@@tomsaunders2496 The SNAP is next-level and likely one of the best wheel-on trainers. They should be in local stores to test ride before purchasing.
I appreciate the sound level analysis, but it seems that generally the loudest thing in the room are the fans we use to keep us cool.
No, I rode the Vortex for 2 winters. It is quite loud and you can hear the vibrations everywhere in the house. Don't even thing of using it in an apartment or shared flat. Even the Drivo can be heared through walls, it is by far not as loud as the Vortex but you can still notice the vibrations through walls.
asgard69 - Good point! I'm on a concrete slab and not a wood floor so I tend to forget about vibration transmission, just overall noise.
Great review. I bought a Flux based on your review, and am not disappointed.
This was my first smart trainer... and my 2nd. Both died and needed an RMA back to wiggle. Then I bought a Wahoo Snap.
What I liked about the vortex was the app that let you know if you had the correct tension.
And also shown in you video how easy it is to remove the bike using the quick release lever.
For it's price it's a good piece of kit
Just got this Trainer and started on Zwift. I‘m a beginner rider cycling for about 6 months (3/week). I‘ve calibrated the Trainer and pumped up my tyre, did the Ramp test and got an ftp of 335watts. It‘s just impossible that i push 4.5watts as a beginner. Do you have any advice?
So here's my issue with the Vortex and Flow smart.
When I started using the Flow, it felt great but unfortunately not for long. Post 10kms I decided to stretch it's legs and do an out of the saddle sprint. Once the sprint was done, the roller started creating a clicking sound at extremely low RPM. On further research I found out its an issue of the metal jacket over the polyurethene roller. I contacted Tacx, they said I can go and replace it. Which I did.
The same thing happened with the second trainer when I was 25kms in. There are multiple videos online of people facing the same issue. HOWEVER, The trainer still works fine. It still tracks and does everything properly. From what I've heard the clicking sound keeps increasing over time (to the extent that people have drilled the metal and injected resin between the metal and roller) and post 6 months the metal jacket starts slipping.
Let me know if there's a solution to this or if there's a specific batch facing this issue. :/ #TroubledTacxOwner
Massive #DadJokes at 2:33 😂
Appreciate the review :) Did the stock giant quick release work or you needed a special kind of quick release?
I have no idea what QR cant on the Giant. Just a strong steel one will do.
@@gplama
Why does the program stop along the route after 5 seconds of driving? I have a 30 day free package.What is wrong?
@@Tac8192 You'll need to contact Zwift(?) support.
@@gplama hello,how do i do that?it this problem has something to do with calibration ?
Hi Shane, did you experience slipping from the rear tire during sharp increase in power? Particularly when increasing power flow slow speed? Not sure if I should tighten the tire contact as the calibration already shows the higher higher side of the limit. Is this the nature of these trainers? Any feedback would be great. Thanks mate.
Hmmm.. No major issues here. Slipping can be a few things. Try more tyre pressure, tighten the roller, then a trainer specific tyre if all those fail.
I just found the Vortex Smart trainer on sale for $205 shipped
Where at...? Trying to find a trainer on a tight budget literally today.
DouceGoTechLX it is sold out now. But it will not work with my bikes. I ride mtb and the wheels rub. I will sell mine with what I paid for it.
any experence with the bushido? im debating buying either the vortex or bushido budget doesnt really stretch to a direct drive right now, Thanks love the videos Shane
Not enough to make any informed comment on for comparison, sorry.
Shane, if you have to pic between tacx Vortex or the elite qubo smart b+ ? Tks
Would love a short video comparing this trainer and the kickr snap!! I think it would be very helpful (for me at least). Trying to decide between those two "mid" range trainers.
The SNAP is a few $100 more here and offers a little more punch with a bigger flywheel.
I am leaning towards the snap for that reason (more punch). Wish I could afford the kickr...Maybe the prices for direct drive trainers will come down over the next few years?
Buy the snap. I've had both a vortex and snap. The snap is just a much better unit. Heavy flywheel much better climbing feeling. And more accurate in power. Just make sure you calibrate the snap as shown in shanes videos it needs to be 1.7 and not a brake strength of 1.
I do think that tacx handles the wheel tension and calibration better in the app with the colour bar. Whereas Wahoo just say a number.
Shane. I think my WATTS are too high on Tacx Vortex. I’ve read forums etc and I can’t get a straight answer. From your experience is it 10-40% higher than direct drive? And how tight should the fly wheel be on the wheel? Thanks in advance.
There's no easy answer here. If you want check the watts with this trainer then you'll need to compare it to a known/good power meter. If power is important, get yourself a power meter on the bike.
Shane Miller - GPLama I might just do that for the riding season. I am hooked, so I need to know my power 😎
Great video! What is the difference between the Vortex Smart and the Flow Smart other than max power and max slope? The Flow is much cheaper and I’m on a budget, but I don’t want to waste money on something bad :-)
I'm yet to get to the Flow. Stay tuned.... maybe a few weeks off.
I'm also waiting for a Flow test :)
Hi just chanced upon this and it is really informative, thank you! Will the vortex smart be able to fit a 29 x 2.25 mtb wheel?
Great video. I just bought a used one of these as it replaces my 10 year old dumb kinetic trainer. Getting the tire to touch the roller took the better part of the time on set up. But I have a question about smart trainers in general I guess. It is Bluetooth but I have an ANT connector that I’ve used with my cadence sensor and speed sensors from Garman.M with my old trainer. Should I continue to use those two devices along with the trainers intel? Will that make everything more accurate?
Specific sensors are usually more accurate, especially when it comes to cadence. Smart trainers will estimate cadence from the power fluctuations.... so it depends how smooth you are on the pedals if it's accurate enough or not. Speed sensors are not used for indoor training unless there's no power meter/source.
@@gplama finally needed to ride indoors again today. 1st time really on my Vortex. Sooooo, my watts are pretty impressive IMHO. Like a bit too impressive. My old dumb trainer with cadence and speed sensors from Garmin on my wheel and pedal had my FTP at 150. And my normal everyday outside ride averages around 140 watts with NO sensors and using Strava. Well now I feel more elite! I'm at 179 FTP after 1 ride. I calibrated on the Vortex app AND on Zwift and I'm still here at these numbers. So do I just enjoy my new strength and all my hard work over the summer or do these things need more calibration? I guess it will be easier to ride with groups without getting shot out the back!
after watching your video on neo2 i decided to get that neo2 thank you now this was my original one for budget but i am glad i did is the neo 2more accurate in terms of power then this vortex? you also use the power pedal now I have the garmin pedal and it match my neo 2 power so very please thanks for all the great video
after riding 2 winter on the Tacx Vortex, I upgraded to the Drivo. Franky, I'm disappointed by the Drivo, especially the ERG mode oscilliates by up to 60 watts for effort over ~350W. During a step test with 25 W steps it was nearly impossible to see the last few steps due to the oscillations. The Drivo rides nicer due to the heavier flywheel but I guess the size of the flywheel might also cause the problems with ERG mode. Riding in slope mode with the ELITE app is awful because the increments for the slope are way too large, the resistance changes like 50 watts per step (same issue in Zwift with free ride). The Tacx app allowed for much smaller changes, under 5 W increments. I'm also not sure about the accuracy, compared to 2 power2max powermeters the Drivo reports 5 and 10 watts more, even with proper calibration, which is absolutely necessary.
TL;DR: The vortex is quite a solid indoor trainer if paired with an powermeter, if noise is not an issue. Elite Drivo offers only small advantages for 700 EUR more.
I believe there's an update due very soon for the Drivo that improves ERG mode. As soon as I get my hands on it, I'll be giving it the full shake-down. Stay tuned!
that's brilliant news
I’ve recently reached 8k km on my Vortex. I am noticing it is progressively becoming louder and louder. I bought a new dedicated tyre to see if that is the cause but there wasn’t much improvement. Shall we say trainers like this one have a limited life? I am planning to upgrade to a direct drive trainer. I also wonder what is the acceptable dB level for a wheel-on trainer.
There's a common issue, thread were it makes the trainer tyre strip rubber off it quickly
Great video!
Do you need an extra speed sensor if you want to use the trainer for Zwift? I'm looking for an easy budget solution.
No. The Vortex and a bike will get you rolling.
Not sure if you'll see this on such an old video but do you have any idea why Tacx are now claiming 5% accuracy for the Vortex, Flow, and Bushido?
There's been no recent firmware updates, no model number revisions, no press releases, etc. Wayback Machine would suggest the change happened somewhere between August and now.
Smells like the Tacx marketing team is scared of Wahoo's 2018 lineup?
I guess that's what happened. A lot of the time things are more accurate than claimed, but they err on the side of caution. The Drivo 1 was likely similar to the Dirvo II (+/-0.5%) but... I think they listed it as +/-1% to play safe. And maybe give themselves somewhere to go for the v2.
I’m new to this whole cycling thing but very fit. I’ve tried everything to pair this directly with atv4k it connects but states no signal so have to connect to my iPhone and mirror screen to the atv4k. It’s not connected Bluetooth to any other device. I set up tyre 110 psi and calibrated it and it’s in the middle of green on the Tacx utility app.
On Zwift I managed 6 miles in 30 minutes I’m showing at an average cadence of 84 rpm max 114 and watts an average 108 and max 269 with an average speed of 12.6 mph max speed of 40 mph. My avatar was moving so slowly everyone was blasting past me at my max output my avatar seemed to be moving at the same pace as you were when at 63 rpm and 49 watts. So Where am I going wrong? My legs feel like jelly and I cover a lot of miles a week running at what should be an easy pace. Also changing gear was nasty I was in my big ring quite a lot and like you did in your sprints standing up was a scary affair with little to no gain in watts.
What am I missing here?
Btw love your channel !
What do you think about the new Genius Smart? It seems to be Tacx new top end wheel on trainer. Its power and gradient seems impressive
I’ll need to ride one to see what it’s all about
I'm torn between this and the elite quoba.. elite is fluid which is more appealing to me. Ditto for.kurt road machine. Or should I just stick with this ? I can get the elite.and tacx.for.similar price
Either way, buy now, ride now, worry later! :)
Just to add to your point about the vortex being a precursor to a direct drive trainer; Because of this, Vortexes show up relatively often on cycling fb buy/sell pages for dirt cheap prices (from what i've seen)
Question: My kmc chain is ready to be replaced, Should I go for an ultegra or 105 chain?
I usually go DuraAce chains as the price difference from Ultegra to DA is usually only a few $. Depends on kms/riding/maintenance/etc.
Hi Shane. Thanks for the review. Do you recommend getting an ANT+ dongle for this to be reliable? I know it can connect via bluetooth, but I can't find anything clear on whether the resistance is able to be controlled via bluetooth for Zwift.
I prefer ANT+ as it is simple and compatible with everything I use (as long as it has a USB or ANT+ dongle).
ok thanks Shane. I got it set up today and currently Zwift is working with bluetooth via our macbook, but have got an ANT+ dongle on the way in case we have a few drop outs.
We had some issues with setting up our Tacx Vortex - the tension screw on the bottom had come out (from loosening just a bit too much!) and it took us over 2 hours to work out how to put the darn thing back together!! Anyway seems to be working now thankfully!!
so how does calibrating it work? do you need a power meter before hand to calibrate a smart trainers power reading?
It's a spindown process. CycleOps have a good description of the process in the first few paragraphs here: www.cycleops.com/post/blog-smart-trainer-calibration-hot-and-cold
Just seen a cheap vortex but it has a faulty electro brake and so I thought I would research problems with it before deciding whether to get it or not, after doing some research it seems a lot of people have had issues with the brake on the vortex, most fixes i can see online suggest running an update on the brake from a link provided by tacx but it seems super complicated to a computer illiterate person such as myself lol, Have u had any issues with yours?
No issue with mine. Two snippets of advice. 1) Cheaper options can mean less quality. General rule of life there I guess. :) 2) Purchase from a reputable retailer who'll provide after sales service if you ever need it.
Thanks for the video! How do you avoid the slipping?
More pressure on the roller. Higher tyre pressure. Better quality rear tyre.
Hi Shane, which one would you choose Saris M2, Tacx Vortex and Wahoo kickr snap? having tested all 3 of them, In order of preference, thank you!
Snap, snap, then snap.
@@gplama Thank you! I love your channel! keep it up!
Hello, is it possible use it with an MTB? Thanks
Hi, Shane! Can the Zwift app for iPad control the smart trainer via Bluetooth or do I need an ant+ dongle for that? I've heard different opinions about this and if I also have to spend additional money on an ant+ dongle then I think I can find better alternatives out there that the Vortex.
This will work with Bluetooth to the iPad.
Shane Miller - GPLama great! Thanks!
Good job ! thanx !
Does the vortex 2180 still get upgrades in 2019 . As I might be buying one. Thanks..
They're still for sale. I'm not aware of any firmware updates recently.
Would you recommend the Vortex as a first smart trainer? Is it worth paying a little extra to get this instead of the elite qubo?
I’d recommend going all the way to a Kickr or Neo or other top trainer if you can. No need to start with a lower end unit that is more difficult to setup and make accurate.
@@gplama the kickr and neo are out of my price range unfortunately, with the Vortex costing about 20% than the quobo I wondered if it was worth the extra.
Thanks for the video. For adjusting, the metal part / circle next to the blue part of my trainer got very tough to open. Does anyone has an idea why is that has happened or how can i fix it?
When a spin down is performed, is the trainer re calibrated or do you keep calibrating until you are in the middle of the two lines on the app?
Ideally it'll fall within those lines each time, and it's good to go.
Tacx Vortex Smart or Kinetic Road Machine smart 2. Find both at the same price. What would be a better buy?
Your call. I don't do purchase consulting very well.
Hi Shane, Elite Rampa or Tacx Vortex? and why please.
gplama.blogspot.com.au/p/indoor-trainer-guide-gplama.html
Yes I already read, I was interested in your own experience as you tried both. Sorry, I know annoying questions asked again and again.
Shane thanks for your videos really helpful for a leisure novice rider looking to get my first indoor smart trainer.
Couple questions:
1- I have a 40yr. Old schwin 10speed road bike how do I make sure it will work with this trainer?
2-does it work with android samsung note 4 & note 8? I'm hoping I can chromecast with phone to tv to use riding apps (also something I've got no experience with ).
3- if me & my hubby want to ride @same time can you both ride together in apps with scenery etc.... or training type rides again if casted to our tv would it show both of our rides info on screen?
Thanks for any info you can share.
A bike shop is what I'd recommend dropping into for in-person advice on compatibility/budget/etc. But I'll try answer as best I can.
1 - Yes, wheel-on trainers are compatible with almost everything.
2 - This depends what software you're using. Zwift is still only beta on Android. 'Casting to a bigscreen depends on the phone/etc.
3 - Again, depends on what hardware/phones/tablet/computers you're using. Each trainer and ANT+/Bluetooth device have unique IDs and can be used at the same time. I've seen 10 or so Zwift stations working all at once, no issues.
@@gplama thank you. I'm looking forward to this way to ride since I'm not a outdoor winter biker! Your videos have been extremely helpful thanks again.
How do you compare the wattage between the vortex and the pedals like you did? I have found my workout to be harder when i pair my stage power meter in zwift vs using the vortex power source. Even my FTP test in zwift was 26w lower with vortex power source vs the same test with the stages. Does that make sense? Thanks
Two head units (Garmin 820 and Elemnt BOLT), recording the two ANT+ Power sources, comparing them with the DCR Analyse tool: goo.gl/uGptJL
Did you may check power difference on big and small front ring? I have tacx flow and power feel change is huge when zwift uphill, ofcourse power on zwift is the same.
Not specifically big/small ring. I have the Flow to Lama Lab Test soon.
Hey Shane Would you be able to do a test on the Tacx Genius? I know its similar to the Vortex but I am looking for a good wheel on smart trainer compatible to a 650c wheel to fit my handcycle.
If I can get a hold of one. Access to equipment is the biggest hurdle I have.
Cheers mate, also thanks for lending Slane your kickr snap worked well!
Any chance you could check how much of a difference the calibration values being at the upper and lower limit lines make to the accuracy and power readings? Thanks
How does it compare to the elite quobo that you reviewed last year? I'm thinking about getting into zwift and wanted a new smart trainer. It's pretty much between the vortex and the quobo.
Vortex > QUBO.
Thanks Shane. Do you mind clarifying something? Is this the same as the Vortex T2180? I found two vortex models that had the same specs, but one was significantly more expensive and is called the Vortex 2017, while the T2180 is cheaper. Again the specs are identical so do you know what the difference is? I would love to link the sites, but they're Norwegian.
So I assume your TCR uses a thru axle real hub? How did you use that old school steel skewer without an adapter? Thanks
Nope, 2013 old-school QR.
Hi Shane, I just brought this and don't think it will fit my bike as I have the specialized tarmac sl6 expert disk which is not quick release, please advise, thank you
I own the elite qubo smart which is pretty nice for the moment but as soon as I hit the specialization phase of my training I upgrade to a elite direto, I can't sprint and put the power down on the non direct drive the wheel spins :) ... I do sprints seated :( ...
How did you link it up to the Swift? Did you not use the ANT ?
Either ANT+ or Bluetooth.
which one is better the Qubo Digital Smart B+ or the tacx vortex??
Hey Shane. I can get the Vortex for $300 less than a kickR Snap. Is the Snap worth the $300 extra? I will be using my own power meter. Cheers
Your call. It's way too hard to do purchase consulting/advice without grilling you with 1000 questions.
Shane Miller - GPLama Newbie to Zwift, just wanting to ride along and occasional race to ease the boredom. Will be using road and Tri bike on it. Wouldn't mind improving my climbing for the 17-20% kicks I tend to avoid around my place :)
So for a newbie Tacx Vortex or a Kickr Snap ....?
Wondering the same...
@@davekansagor6836 Yep thinking the same as well
So i'm thinking of getting a vortex, some of the time when I use it I'll want to be able to use it like my swing (dumb), and just plug it in to receive readings, but not use an app etc to modify the resistance, can I do this? This will be whilst at club turbo sessions and I won't know what the session will be beforehand.
Thanks for the review, how does the trainer handle cadence? Cheers
I believe it does. Cadence sensors are so cheap, it's better to get one of those that'll work everywhere and be more accurate.
Hi Shane.. big fan of your review! 👍🏽please help me decide between tacx vortex vs elite rampa vs kinetic road machine control? thank you so much
Vortex
@@gplama thank you for quick reply..hmm..vortex vs elite suito? $100 more on suito
Your choice from here.
@@gplama haha.. thank you Shane