CycleOps evolves its smart trainers with direct-drive Hammer

Quick-release and thru-axle frames work on ANT+/Bluetooth smart trainer

Courtesy CycleOps

Published: May 12, 2016 at 9:30 am

The new CycleOps Hammer is a direct-drive smart trainer that not only works on ANT+ and Bluetooth for interactive training, but is also compatible with both quick-release and thru-axle frames.

The Hammer, which will be available later this year for $1,199 / £1,100, will work with 142 or 148mm thru-axle frames, plus 130 and 135mm quick-release ones.

The Hammer can be used with a variety of applications, including CycleOps’ own VirtualTraining, Zwift, TrainerRoad and others.

The Hammer has a 20lb flywheel to replicate real-world inertia, and an electromagnetic drive to control resistance.

The noise at 20mph is only 64 decibels, the company claims.

The Hammer synthesizes the direct-drive stye of the company's Silencer with the smart trainer capabilities of the PowerSync Bluetooth or PowerBeam models. Another step forward is the integration of both ANT+ and Bluetooth; previous CycleOps smart trainers came in one or the other wireless frequency.

Unlike the Wahoo Kickr direct-drive smart trainer that puts the front wheel directly on the floor, the Hammer uses a front wheel tray.

The legs fold in for storage and transport, and there is an integrated handle.

The unit weight 47lbs / 21.3kg, according to CycleOps.

CycleOps' long history with PowerTap power meters is utilized in the Hammer's power measurement.

The Hammer can handle up to 2,000 watts at 20 mph, CycleOps claims, and the ability to simulate grades up to 20%.