The Wahoo KICKR CORE is a smart trainer that connects to TrainerRoad via either ANT+ or Bluetooth Smart. TrainerRoad automatically controls the KICKR CORE's resistance in accordance with the workout's profile when the trainer is in ERG mode.
How do I Set Up the KICKR CORE with TrainerRoad?
Check out how to pair TrainerRoad with your Wahoo KICKR. (The KICKR and KICKR CORE have the same pairing procedure.)
How Does the KICKR CORE Work with TrainerRoad?
The KICKR CORE has three modes that can be used with TrainerRoad: ERG, Standard, and Resistance mode.
ERG Mode
ERG is the most commonly-used mode when performing a TrainerRoad workout with a KICKR CORE. TrainerRoad will automatically adjust the resistance on the KICKR CORE in accordance with the workout's profile in ERG mode.
When using ERG mode, you can keep a steady cadence and leave your bike in a single gear for the duration of the workout. The KICKR CORE will make any necessary adjustments to the resistance.
You will be able to find the KICKR CORE's mode within a workout as the screenshot below illustrates.
On the Desktop app, you can toggle between modes by pressing the "M" key.
Standard (Level) Mode
Standard, or Level mode, mimics the functionality of a fluid trainer with variable resistance settings and non-linear, exponential power curves. In other words, as the rider increases their speed, they will encounter more resistance. You can set the KICKR CORE to varying levels of resistance (0-9) as indicated in the picture below.
This is what displays when the KICKR CORE is set to Standard mode within a workout:
Notice the Level adjuster at the bottom of the screen. You can adjust the level with the right and left arrow keys.
Resistance Mode
Resistance mode mimics the functionality of a magnetic trainer with variable resistance settings and a linear power curve. This setting provides the rider with a fixed level of resistance on the flywheel that does not change as the speed is increased. You can set the KICKR CORE to varying levels of resistance (0-100) as indicated in the picture below.
This is what displays when the KICKR CORE is set to Resistance mode within a workout:
Notice the Level adjuster at the bottom of the screen. You can adjust the level with the right and left arrow keys.
How does the KICKR CORE work with TrainerRoad during an 8 or 20-minute FTP test?
TrainerRoad will automatically switch the KICKR CORE from Erg into Standard (Level 3) mode during the test intervals (20- or 8- minute periods) of a test workout. We do this because we don't want the app to control your KICKR CORE and put limitations on how hard you can ride.
TrainerRoad will control your KICKR CORE throughout the warm-up. This will ensure that you are well prepared for the test. However, once the test starts, TrainerRoad will switch modes. Level mode allows you to shift gears to find the optimal cadence for your test and will help you achieve the highest wattage average possible.
What do I do if it is very difficult to pedal in Level mode?
We recommend switching to Level mode before you do the test to find the level that will work for you. Use the left/right arrows on the keyboard or the slider at the bottom of the workout window to change levels. Next, you can change gears on your bike as you'd do outside to find the correct cadence.