Wahoo launches cheaper Kickr, plus trainer-controlled fan
£699 / $899 Kickr Core direct-drive smart trainer debuts with Kickr Headwind smart fan
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Wahoo’s Kickr revolutionized indoor training, but the power-measuring smart trainer that works with third-party apps to control resistance is cost-prohibitive for many. Now, Wahoo has a £699 / $899 Kickr Core that uses the same technology and flywheel but with a different leg configuration.
The company also has a new category of product: the smart fan, with the speed determined by your effort level (heart rate, power or speed, via ANT+).
Wahoo Kickr Core

To get the cost down to £699 / $899, which puts it in competition with the Tacx Flux Smart and Elite Direto, Wahoo opted for a fixed-leg frame, and forewent the cassette that comes with the regular Kickr. (The cassette, in our experience, is not high quality anyway.)
The Kickr Core has a claimed +/-2% power accuracy, with a max resistance of 1,800w and a max simulated gradient of 16%.

It works with quick-release and thru-axle frames.
Wahoo Kickr Headwind

In addition to the Kickr Climb, Wahoo created an indoor product that simulated climbs and descents. With the Kickr Headwind, Wahoo has a fan that can simulate riding wind speed.
A new category for the bike world, the Kickr Headwind can blow up to 30mph / 48kph, with fan speed controlled by your effort level, measured in speed, power or heart rate. You can also control it manually to one of four speeds – but you don’t need to spend £199 / $249 for a fan that does that.
Unlike the Climb that is Kickr-specific, the Headwind works with any trainer.
The Kickr Headwind will be shipping later this month.
Other Wahoo products for 2018: Kickr Climb, original Kickr updates
Speaking of the Climb, Wahoo said the gradient simulator will begin shipping later this month.
The original Kickr received a few updates, including a claimed reduction in sound and a slight repositioning of the handle to better accommodate all disc bikes.