If you’re looking for an affordable indoor bicycle machine, don’t just focus on the best budget bike trainer you can buy. You should also think about power and resistance to successfully experience realistic simulation and improve your cycling skills at home. One of the most powerful options out there is the BKOOL Smart Pro 2 Trainer. Read on to find out more about its features, advantages, and disadvantages.
Table of Contents
Features and Specifications
1,200-Watt Resistance
With a power of 1,200 watts to ensure effective resistance, this bike trainer can meet the expectations of expert cyclists who temporarily can’t ride outdoors due to weather and other factors. It’s the more advanced model of the brand’s original Smart Pro. You can easily identify it because of its bright yellow accents. It looks simple despite its bold color, unlike the full orange frame of Indoor Bike Trainer Exercise Stand.
As expected from an electronic bike trainer, resistance control is automatic. It can simulate slopes to a maximum of 20%. A similar model from the same brand, specifically the BKOOL GO Trainer, can only reach 8% despite its high-tech features.
The reason why slope simulation with this equipment is realistic has something to do with the perfect virtual application of inertia. When you see your avatar climbing a slope on screen, you’ll be forced to exert more effort as the resistance increases. On the other hand, it’ll go easier when you descend.
ANT+ and BLE Connection
This bike trainer includes ANT+ and BLE features to connect with common devices like computers, phones, and tablets. It works great with the usual ANT+ FE-C simulators such as Trainer Roads, Zwift, and BKOOL itself.
Speaking of the BKOOL simulator, you’ll get three months worth of subscription to use it several weeks for free. You’ll have a blast using that extensive software for bike trainers. Aside from 3D routes, maps, videos, classes, and personalized workouts, you can choose from the selection of velodrome races such as keirin, pursuits, and miss and outs.
Another exciting thing about the BKOOL simulator is the promise of realistic images thanks to the unique 3D World it provides. Expect flawless details of the routes, terrains, landscapes, and weather you can see real-time from any part of the world.
Other than realistic scenery, you can also enjoy a realistic experience of riding with peers. You’ll have the chance to connect with different cyclists when you organize a competition, league, or training program.
Ventilation System
Strain and overheating may result in a bike trainer that produces a lot of annoying sounds. It’s a good thing this equipment has a well-designed housing and ventilation system. No matter how long you’ll ride your bike, the system will remain cool and quiet. Its noise level is only 68 decibels at 19 miles per hour max. If you’re really particular about peace and quiet, HEALTH LINE PRODUCT Bike Trainer Stand only produces 65-decibel noise.
Quick-Release System
Compatible with carbon frames, the mounting system of this bike trainer has a quick-release feature for faster installation and removal of wheels measuring 20 to 29 inches. Plus, with trainer arms that will automatically adjust to any size, mounting your bike will only take a few seconds.
The amount of pressure to be applied between the roller and the tire is also automatic. This equipment will function according to your weight, which ultimately leads to stability. You can have a more intense workout with the added telescoping legs.
Additional Details
- Folding frame
- Power cord/adaptor
- Riser block/support for the front wheel
- Quick-release skewer for the rear wheel
- USB ANT+ stick
- Sync with Training Peaks, Garmin, and Strava
The Good
Preparation for Events and Competitions
Some seasons are just bad for cycling. However, a long hiatus can get you rusty with your pro skills. Your training should be continuous no matter what.
If you’re up for cycling competitions or exhibitions when summer comes, don’t stop training even in winter months. That’s why you need products like the BKOOL Smart Pro 2 Trainer. You can ride for at least 10 miles per session without leaving your home.
Pushes You to the Limit
It may sound cliché, but — no pain, no gain, right? The 1,200-watt resistance of this bike trainer is just amazing. Simple cruising won’t improve your skills to the professional level. You need to train on slopes a lot, which is more effective if the equipment can simulate up to 20%. And, the best part, you’ll be safe from accidents during your initial training.
Keeps You Entertained
The thing about nonstop indoor cycling is you’re more likely to get bored. Sure, you can watch TV while training, but you might get distracted and fail to take your training to the next level. You’ll need to stay focused without getting tired easily.
Fortunately, the BKOOL Smart Pro 2 Trainer is compatible with different simulators. You’ll have fun even while you’re determined to complete more complex training.
The Bad
Tricky Setup
One mistake can affect the entire setup. You’ll have no choice but to spend some time reading the user’s manual. You may encounter problems with the compatibility between the ANT+ feature and the Zwift simulator, so try your best to understand what could go wrong before you start setting everything up.
Low Power Meter Reading
For some users, the power meter seems off. You may see a low reading even if you feel that the resistance is already too much. This can make your training sessions shorter because of fatigue. Remember to test every feature once you receive the product.
Who Is It For?
Just like what the name suggests, the BKOOL Smart Pro 2 Trainer is ideal for professional cyclists. It promotes constant training just in case the weather isn’t suitable for cycling. Its powerful resistance is also a satisfying feature for riders who want some challenge.
Conclusion
High-tech bike trainers like the BKOOL Smart Pro 2 may test your patience but think about its positive features. The complicated technical setup is just a small price to pay for better training indoors. A powerful yet fun bicycle machine can be hard to find, so don’t forget to consider this product.