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How to Test With the Ramp Test

The purpose of an FTP test is to find your maximum sustainable power output. At TrainerRoad, we do this through the Ramp Test. The TrainerRoad Ramp Test is designed to take you until failure in order to gain an accurate FTP estimation. The test will continue until you either stop pedaling or pause the workout. It will then automatically calculate your FTP and drop you into a recovery interval. The most important advice for completing the Ramp Test is to GO UNTIL FAILURE. Each second matters during the test. Even if you only make it 10 seconds into a new step, that will still factor into your FTP calculation. It's also important to follow the target power closely as you progress through the test. Stay in the saddle the entire time and use a cadence that feels most comfortable. Check out the video below to get an in-depth look at how you should approach the Ramp test. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWHgMzpvH7c For more specific Ramp Test details, click here. How It's Calculated After completing the Ramp Test, we calculate your FTP taking 75% to your highest 1-minute of power. Again, every second matters, so even if you only progress partly through your last step, it will affect the outcome. (Note: More complicated calculations may be applied when determining FTP from a Ramp Test depending on how accurately a rider followed the format of the test. This means, 75% of a rider's 1-minute power may not translate to their actual FTP calculation.) Testing on a Smart Trainer vs. Traditional Trainer When using a Smart Trainer, we do recommend using ERG Mode as it is the default for the test. That being said, a smart trainer is not required in order to complete the test. For traditional trainers, it's very important to focus on following the target profile to the best of your ability. With that, those doing the test in ERG mode do not have an advantage over individuals on a traditional trainer. When To Do an FTP Test? Generally, FTP tests are best done at the beginning of each training block (about every 4-6 weeks). This allows enough time to catch any fitness changes. Additionally, if you’ve taken an extended break from training, it’s a good idea to start with a test. Every TrainerRoad training plan automatically includes the Ramp Test for each training block If all of this seems overwhelming, you’re not alone. Many cyclists find testing cumbersome and draining. With TrainerRoad AI, you can use AI FTP Detection. This feature replaces the need to test. It uses AI to analyze your training progress, relative strengths, previous experience, and many other factors to give you an informed and data-backed FTP. More info on FTP testing tips here: FTP Testing: Tips & Strategy to Prepare for Your Next FTP Test

Assessing your Fitness Level (FTP) • Last updated on Jul 21, 2026

How to Test with the 20-Minute & 8-Minute FTP Tests

With the Ramp Test as our recommended assessment, we still offer two alternative options to test FTP: The 20-Minute and 8-Minute FTP Tests. How to Test During the test intervals, totally ignore the graph's recommendations. Whether you're above, below, or exactly in line with the graph makes no difference. It's important that these assessment efforts are not restricted or guided in any way. We're simply trying to get a reasonably close estimate of your Functional Threshold Power, something we can't do if your smart trainer is limiting your power. FTP (Functional Threshold Power) is automatically calculated upon completion of any of our test workouts. 20-Min VS. 8-Min Test If you do decide to use one of these alternative tests, whether you use our 20-minute Maximal Lactate Steady State (MLSS) interval or a set of 8-minute Power at VO2max (pVO2max) efforts, it's best to choose a format that you will stick with and one that fairly represents your fitness at the time. Each test has its own pros & cons. We'll elaborate on each of them briefly below in order to help you choose a format that best suits you, both in terms of your current capabilities & capacity for suffering. 20-Minute Test https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfdNQMik6Mk The 20-Minute Test is an ideal format to break into shorter, more manageable segments. By breaking the 20-minute effort into four 5-minute segments, riders can subtly tweak their effort every so often based on longer periods of muscular feedback, i.e. a rider can slightly reduce their pace every 5 minutes based on perceived exertion or how their body feels. The 20-minute test is a relatively long testing effort and pacing can sometimes be an issue for less experienced riders. Because of this, the 20-Minute Test is usually more ideal for seasoned riders who have a good sense of how to pace well. Additionally, many riders play it safe during the longer formats and end up finishing with too much gas left in the tank. Evidence of this is illustrated via a 2 or 3-minute surge in power at the end of an effort that would ideally be evenly-paced over the entire 20 minutes. As a result, their FTP and relative power levels are likely to be underestimated a bit (or a lot) rendering all subsequent FTP-based workouts less productive than they would be otherwise. TrainerRoad calculates your FTP from the 20-Minute Test by multiplying your average power for the test interval by .95. In other words, your FTP is 5% less than your average power of the test interval. 8-Minute Test https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XmJr4r1pWYM Our preferred format for less experienced riders is the 8-minute protocol comprised of two 8-minute efforts. The 8-Minute Test yields a greater amount of information by demonstrating power at VO2max via each 8-minute interval, sustainable power/FTP once the average power of the two 8-minute intervals is reduced by 10%, and you can even track improvements in your aerobic fitness when comparing the 2 efforts afterward, i.e. a substantial difference could indicate a limited ability to recover & insufficient aerobic capabilities. TrainerRoad calculates your FTP from the 8-Minute Test by multiplying your average power of the two test intervals by .9. In other words, your FTP is 10% less than your average power of the two test intervals. Erg Mode vs Slope/Resistance Mode Building on the information found in our Erg Mode Explained article, these FTP test alternatives, when completed on a smart trainer, have to be done in the appropriate mode: Slope or Resistance mode (depending on your particular trainer). Fortunately, TrainerRoad switches modes for you when you assess your FTP via our 20-Minute Test or our 8-Minute Test. Why Erg Mode is Bad for the 8- and 20-Minute FTP Tests If a smart trainer is left in Erg mode during the testing portion(s) of a 20- and 8-Minute test, the workout will lock you in at your current fitness level instead of allowing you to pace the duration of the test interval at your own power target. To avoid this, the assessment needs to take place in Slope/Resistance mode in order to allow a rider to work at his/her own pace rather than having the trainer determine a pace based on the input FTP. TrainerRoad automatically switches you to Slope/Resistance mode during your test interval(s). If you wish to use a higher or lower Slope/Resistance setting, you're free to adjust it yourself and it makes no difference if you use different Slope/Resistance settings from interval to interval or test to test. The last setting you used will be applied the next time you enter Slope/Resistance mode. By switching to Slope/Resistance mode, you're allowed to go hard without being forced to maintain the calculated Target Power that would be forced on your legs in Erg mode. You can pace according to your current capabilities such that you ride as strongly as possible for the assessment interval(s).

Assessing your Fitness Level (FTP) • Last updated on Aug 13, 2026

Compatible Devices and Sensors

TrainerRoad supports most Bluetooth Smart and ANT+ sensors, including trainers, heart rate monitors, power meters, and speed/cadence sensors. This page will help explain which devices should work with TrainerRoad, along with how you can check yourself if your training device isn't listed here. Keep in mind that this list is not exhaustive. If your trainer or device is not listed here, that does not mean you are out of luck! Check out the "How do ANT+ and Bluetooth standards work" at the bottom of this article, and reach out to our support team if you have any compatibility questions. If not otherwise marked, devices below are compatible over both Bluetooth and ANT+. Protip: open up the dropdown menus below, then press Ctrl + F (cmd + F on Mac) on your keyboard to quickly search for your device's name. Speed & Cadence Sensors BBB - - Bluecombo+ - Smartcadence - Digicadence (ANT only) - Digispeed (ANT only) Bontrager - - Interchange Digital Combo Sensor - DuoTrap S - DuoTrap (Pre-2015 version is ANT only) - SpeedTrap Digital Speed Sensor - Digital Speed Sensor (ANT only) - Digital Cadence Sensor (ANT only) Cateye - - TR200DW/TR300TW (Bluetooth only) CycleOps - - PowerTap SL 2.4 Speed/Cadence Sensor (ANT only) - PowerTap SL 2.4 Speed Sensor (ANT only) Garmin - - GSC 10 (ANT only) - Bike Speed Sensor (ANT only) - Bike Cadence Sensor (ANT only) - Bike Speed Sensor 2 - Bike Cadence Sensor 2 Giant - - Ridesense 2.0 - Ridesense (ANT only) iMaze - - Speed/Cadence (Bluetooth only) Lezyne - - Cadence Speed Flow Sensor (Bluetooth only) Pioneer - - SGY-CS500 (ANT only) Polar - - Speed and Cadence Sensor (Bluetooth only) PowerTap - - Speed or Cadence sensor (Only transmits speed or cadence, not both) Scosche - - RHYTHM SC (Bluetooth only) Saris/PowerTap - - Magnetless Speed Sensor Cadence Sensor Sigma - - R2 Duo Speed and Cadence Sensor - Speed Transmitter (ANT only) - Cadence Transmitter (ANT only) SRM - - Speed Pod (ANT only) Tacx - - Speed and Cadence Sensor Smart Topeak - - PanoBike Cadence and Speed Sensor (Bluetooth only) Wahoo - - Blue SC (Older Wahoo Blue SCs are Bluetooth only. The newest Blue SC models will work over ANT+ and BLE) - RPM Speed - RPM Cadence Heart Rate Monitors 4iiii - - Viiiiva Bontrager - - Softstrap HR Belt Cateye - - HR-11 (ANT only) - HR-12 (Bluetooth only) Elite - - HR Transmission Belt (ANT+) - HR Transmission Belt (BLE) Garmin - - Soft Strap Premium HRM (ANT only) - HRM-Dual - HRM-Tri (ANT only) - HRM-Swim (ANT only) - HRM-Run (ANT only) - Fenix 6 - Fenix 5 (ANT only) - Fenix Chronos (ANT only) - Fenix 3 HR (ANT only) - Forerunner 935 (ANT only) - Forerunner 735XT (ANT only) - Forerunner 235 (ANT only) - Forerunner 35 (ANT only) - Forerunner 25 (ANT only) - Vívosmart HR+ (ANT only) - Vívoactive HR (ANT only) - Vivoactive 4 (ANT only) Giant - - 2 in 1 Heart Rate Belt Lezyne - - Heart Rate Flow Sensor (Bluetooth only) Mio - - LINK - Slice - ALPHA 2 (Bluetooth only) - FUSE - MioPod Pioneer - - SGY-HR500 (ANT only) Polar - - A370 Watch (Bluetooth Only) - H10 HR Sensor - H7 HR Sensor (Bluetooth only) - H6 HR Sensor (Bluetooth only) ProForm - - SmartBeat (Bluetooth only) Scosche - - Rhythm Chest Strap (Bluetooth only) Sigma - - R1 Duo Heart Rate Transmitter Specialized - - SpeedZone Digital HR Strap (ANT only) Suunto - - Smart Sensor (Bluetooth only) Tacx - - Heart Rate Belt Smart Topeak - - PanoBike Heart Rate Monitor (Bluetooth only) Wahoo - - Wahoo TICKR X/ TICKR 2020 - Wahoo TICKR Run - Wahoo TICKR FIT - Wahoo TICKR Whoop - - 3.0 (Bluetooth only) Zephyr - - HxM - There is a version of the HR monitor known as “Zephyr HxM BT.” That version will not work with TrainerRoad, as it uses a proprietary version of Bluetooth. However, the Zephyr HxM Smart should pair. Power Meters 4iiii - - Precision - Precision Pro - Precision Podiiiium Pro - Precision Fiiiit Easton/Raceface - - Cinch Power Meter Favero - - Assioma (For Dual-Power, ANT required, but will pair over Bluetooth) - bePro (ANT only) Full Speed Ahead (FSA) - - PowerBox (Bluetooth is available in newly bought FSA PowerBox power meters, or as a purchasable upgrade.) Garmin - - Vector (ANT only) - Vector S (ANT only) - Vector 2 (ANT only) - Vector 2s (ANT only) - Vector 3 - Vector 3s Team LIMITS - - LIMITS Power Meter Look - - Keo Power Dual Regular - Keo Power Dual Essential Pioneer - - SBT-PM - SBT-LT - SGY-PM (ANT only) - SGY-LT (ANT only) Polar - - Keo Power Meter Regular (Bluetooth only) - Keo Power Meter Essential (Bluetooth only) Power2Max - - Classic (ANT only) - Type S (ANT only) - NG - NG Eco PowerTap - - P1 Pedals (ANT+ must be used for dual power) - P2 Pedals (ANT+ must be used for dual power) - C1 Chainrings - G3 Hub (Newer G3’s ship with a dual-band hub cap, but older G3 units that have an ANT+ cap on it it can be replaced with a dual-band or BLE cap.) - GS Hub (see above - the same information applies) - Pro Hub (ANT only) - SL+ Hub (ANT only) - SLC+ Hub (ANT only) Quarq - - Cinqo (ANT only) - DZero / DFour (Older versions of the power meter (~2016), or specialized versions of the power meter may not support Bluetooth) - Elsa (ANT only) - Riken (ANT only) Rotor - - Power Crank (ANT only) - Rotor Power LT (ANT only) - Rotor INspider (ANT only) - Rotor 2INpower Road - Rotor INpower Road Shimano - - FC-R9100-P (the R9100P only broadcasts power on ANT+, and not Bluetooth Smart) SRM - - EXACT Pedals - X Power Pedals Stages - - Crank Arm Power Meter (ANT+ must be used for dual power) Watteam - - Powerbeat Road Verve - - Infocrank M30 Team Zwatt - - Zpider - Zwatt Zimanox Trainers 4iiii - - Fliiiight Bkool - - Classic (ANT+ and Desktop apps only) - Pro - Pro 2 (No resistance control over Bluetooth - pairs as a power meter) - Smart Go (No resistance control over Bluetooth) - Smart Air (Desktop apps only) Computrainer - - Note: The CompuTrainer will only work on TrainerRoad's Legacy app due to its age and lack of support from RacerMate. Check out our page on the CompuTrainer here for more information on how to get it working with TrainerRoad. CycleOps/Saris - - Hammer - H2 - H3 - Magnus - M2 - PRO Indoor Cycle 300/400 (Must use TrainerRoad legacy. Reach out to support for more information) Elite - - Arion Digital Smart B+ Rollers (No resistance control over Bluetooth - pairs as a power meter) - Direto - Direto X - Direto XR - Drivo (No resistance control over Bluetooth - pairs as a power meter) - Drivo II (Must use Misuro B+ to get power readings. No resistance control) - Fuoripista - Kura (No resistance control) - Nero - Novo Force (Must use Misuro B+ to get power readings. No resistance control) - Novo Smart - Qubo Digital Smart B+ - Suito - Tuo - Turno (No Resistance control) - Rampa - Real E-Motion B+ (Resistance control is only available through ANT) - Not to be confused with the earlier 'Quick Motion', ‘E-Motion’, or 'Real E-Motion'. Those trainers are only usable through VirtualPower. - Real Turbo Muin B+ - Not to be confused with the earlier ‘Turbo Muin', ‘Turbo Muin Smart B+’, or ‘Real Turbo Muin’. Those trainers are only usable through VirtualPower. - RealAxiom B+ - Not to be confused with the earlier ‘Real Axiom’, which connected via USB. The older Axiom can only be used with a power meter or VirtualPower. - Real Tour B+ - Not to be confused with the earlier ‘Real Tour’, which connected via USB. The older Real Tour can only be used with a power meter or Virtual Power. InsideRide - - E-Motion Smart Rollers JetBlack - - WhisperDrive Smart Kurt Kinetic - - Control T-6300 - InRide1 - The InRide1 is only supported on the TrainerRoad Legacy application. Contact Support and we can get you on the Legacy app. - InRide2 (No resistance control) - InRide3 (No resistance control) - Road Machine Control (Bluetooth only) - Smart Control (Bluetooth only) - R1 (Bluetooth only) Magene - - Gravat2 (Does not support ERG mode over Bluetooth, only ANT+) Minoura - - Smart Turbo Kagura - Direct Drive (Does not support ERG mode over Bluetooth, only ANT+) - Smart Turbo Kagura - Wheel On (Does not support ERG mode over Bluetooth, only ANT+) Stages - - StagesBike Tacx - - Bushido Smart - Flow Smart - Flux - Flux 2 - Flux S - Genius Smart (Model numbers T2060 and T2080 only - other versions will not pair with TrainerRoad) - IRONMAN Smart - Neo - Neo 2 - Satori Smart (Only provides power on Bluetooth, no resistance control) - Vortex Smart / TDF (Model numbers T2180 and T2380 only - other versions will not pair with TrainerRoad) Wahoo - - KICKR Snap - KICKR BIKE - KICKR Wattbike - - Atom (ERG mode only - no slope or resistance mode) - Pro/Trainer (Requires the Model B Monitor to connect over Bluetooth) Zycle - - Smart Z Bike - Smart Z Go - Smart Z Pro For more information on compatible trainers, see the Help Center page here. How do ANT+ and Bluetooth Standards work? While browsing training devices online, you’ve likely seen things like “Bluetooth Smart” or “ANT+ FE-C” mentioned and wondered what these mean. In the early days of technology-based training, each device or company used its own sort of “language" to communicate between the device and the training software. For example, Trainer A and Trainer B might both communicate using ANT+, but how all of their information was packaged to us would differ - meaning we would need to add support for both trainers individually. As indoor device options grew, this became quite a struggle. This issue led to the creation of Bluetooth and ANT standards which (you guessed it) standardized how data is sent and received. These two standards are Bluetooth Smart, and ANT+ Fitness Equipment-Control (FE-C). Instead of each company making their own ANT or Bluetooth protocol, companies can now choose to use Bluetooth Smart or ANT FE-C and know that their device will work on a multitude of platforms. HR monitors, Cadence sensors, and Power meters all have their own versions of a Bluetooth and ANT standard protocol. If you see that a trainer or other device is marked as "Bluetooth Smart" or "ANT+ FE-C", it should be compatible with TrainerRoad. If you are still unsure and would like to double-check your trainer or other devices' functionality, feel free to reach out to us at [email protected].

Setting Up Equipment and Connecting Devices • Last updated on Aug 13, 2026

CompuTrainer

Apps Compatible with CompuTrainer The CompuTrainer will work with TrainerRoad through the "Legacy" Windows and Mac apps. CompuTrainer support is not available for iOS or Android devices. You can download the Legacy apps from the following links: Legacy Windows Download Legacy Mac Download Note: If you're a Mac user, and you're using MacOS X 10.15 (Catalina) or newer, contact us at [email protected] so we can provide instructions to download our older Legacy AIR app. Necessary Drivers for the CompuTrainer To use a CompuTrainer with TrainerRoad, you'll need to install the correct drivers first, so if you're looking to go this route reach out to [email protected] and we'd be happy to send them your way. Hardware Handlebar Unit The handlebar unit should have firmware version 43.45 or newer. This is the number that shows up on the screen when the unit is powered on. If it's older it might still work but if it doesn't, you may need to upgrade. Buttons F1/Start - Start or stop the workout Stop - Stops the workout F2 - Switches modes between Slope (gradient) and ERG (resistance changes to match target power) F3 - Enter or exit calibration mode. Once in calibration mode, spin up to the required speed on the handlebar unit and then coast. Once the new calibration value is displayed, press F3 to save the new value and resume the workout +/- buttons - In Slope mode - changes the slope up or down by 0.1 In Erg mode - changes the workout percent up or down, which increases or decreases the target watts Adapter To use your CompuTrainer with TrainerRoad, you need a USB to Stereo adapter. CompuTrainer: General Use with TrainerRoad Starting and stopping a workout Press Start on the handlebar unit to start or stop a workout. You can also use the play/pause button on the workout screen Calibration After the trainer is warmed up (5-10 minutes), it's good practice to calibrate the CompuTrainer. To calibrate, just press F3. This will pause the workout and allow you to spin up and coast down to get a new calibration number. The old number shows on the bottom and 0.00 shows up on top. After the spindown, the new number will show up on top. Press F3 to save the new number. If the number is outside the range of 2.5 to 3.5 you may want to adjust the tension on the rear wheel. Tighten to make the number go up, and loosen to make the number go down. Test Workouts During test intervals of the test workouts (8-minute test and 20-minute test), TrainerRoad will automatically switch to Slope mode at 2%. Since the goal of the test interval is to put out the highest average watts possible, you'll want to shift and/or adjust the slope up or down so you can pedal at your optimal cadence. Free Rides Since there is no watt target in a free ride, you'll automatically start at 150W. You can use the up and down arrows to adjust this by 5-watt increments. You can also use F2 (or the mode dropdown on the devices tab) to switch to Slope mode. Use the up/down arrows to adjust the slope setting in 0.1 increments. Multiple Devices If you have ANT+ or Bluetooth Smart devices paired in addition to your Computrainer, you'll see this data as well. For cadence, speed, and power, any device that sends this data will be shown and recorded instead of the Computrainer data. For example, if you have a Quarq power meter and a Computrainer paired at the same time, cadence and power will be recorded from the Quarq and speed will be recorded from your Computrainer. The Computrainer will still use its power measurements internally to set the load on the trainer in ERG mode. Troubleshooting Computrainer won't pair when the search button is pressed. Make sure you have the driver installed. Reach out to [email protected] if you don't have them. Hard coding the Port If you try to pair the device and it fails, you'll see a dropdown menu in Windows for choosing the port. Alternatively, there is a config.txt file in your Documents folder under the TrainerRoad subfolder. Open that file by double-clicking on it. Be sure to save the file and restart TrainerRoad for changes to take effect. On Windows, we search com1- com24, and on Mac, we search all of the com ports (/dev/cu.*). If this isn't working for you, find the port that your Computrainer is connected to and replace ctport="auto" in the config.txt file with your port number. On Windows, you should be able to find this in other Computrainer software or Device Manager under "Ports". For example, if it's on comm port 3 you'd change the line above to this: ctport="com3" On OSX, it's a little trickier to figure out what port the Computrainer is on. From Terminal, run ls -l /dev/cu.* to see all of the serial devices connected. By unplugging the CT you should be able to figure out which one it is. It might be something like: ctport="/dev/cu.usbserial1" Check the firmware version of the handlebar unit If it is lower than 43.45 you may need an upgrade from RacerMate. Another way to tell is if your screen always displays proE when connected to the computer. For it to work with TrainerRoad, it needs to display the calibration screen when connected to the computer. Once it is paired with TrainerRoad, the screen will switch to display "proE". Try switching between "Ergometer Mode" and "General Exercise Mode" Press reset while in the "resistance calibration program". See the CompuTrainer Manual for more details. Make sure no other CompuTrainer software is running CompuTrainer software will keep TrainerRoad from recognizing and controlling the CompuTrainer. Computrainer doesn't show up on any port on Mac OSX Try reinstalling the driver for the serial adapter. Computrainer starts acting funny or doesn't pair anymore Sometimes the DIN cables stop working. In this case, it might be worth sourcing another one to try out. CompuTrainer's Troubleshooting Resources CompuTrainer has also released a troubleshooting document that can be found at the following link: CompuTrainer Troubleshooting Document.

Smart Trainers • Last updated on Aug 20, 2026

Kurt Kinetic Trainers

Kurt Kinetic manufacture a range of indoor bike trainers which can be separated in to three distinct categories - smart trainers (known on their website as Interactive/Smart Control), mechanical trainers plus inRide power (known on their website as non-interactive/Smart), and mechanical-only (known also as ‘dumb’ trainers). Frames It is worth noticing before we delve deeper in to this, that some products with similar names fall into different categories. This is because products named 'Rock and Roll' and 'Road Machine' refer to the frame design. Now that the product has evolved, this nomenclature spans many trainer categories. Untitled_presentation__14_.png Smart ('Interactive') Trainers This category offers Smart Trainers in both frames, as well as the power unit alone (this would only be necessary if you wished to upgrade an existing frame to a smart trainer. These are known as the 'Rock and Roll Smart Control', 'Road Machine Smart Control' and the power unit alone is the 'Smart Control Power Unit' Rock and Roll Smart Control Untitled_presentation__1_.png The Kinetic Rock and Roll Smart Control is an interactive, app-controlled (ERG mode) electronic trainer that actually rocks side to side when you ride in order to closer mimic what it's like when riding outdoors. Road Machine Smart Control Untitled_presentation__2_.png The Road Machine Smart Control is a power trainer with app-controlled electronic resistance (ERG mode) and like most other indoor trainers, is locked in place and does not allow for any lateral movement (unlike the Rock and Roll, above). Smart Control Power Unit Kinetic-Smart-Control-Power-Unit.jpg The Kinetic Smart Control Power Unit installs in minutes and is the most affordable and convenient option for upgrading an existing Kinetic Rock and Roll or Road Machine trainer frame to a smart trainer. Mechanical + inRide Power Sensor Kinetic Fluid Power Bike Trainers are non-interactive (no ERG mode), however, with fluid resistance you are able to manually control the ride difficulty. Ride data is transmitted wirelessly to TrainerRoad. Kinetic Rock and Roll Untitled_presentation__12_.png The Kinetic Rock and Roll | Smart is fitted with the Kinetic inRide power sensor. The Kinetic Rock and Roll | Smart 2 is fitted with the Kinetic inRide 3 power sensor. Kinetic Road Machine Untitled_presentation__13_.png The Kinetic Road Machine | Smart is fitted with the Kinetic inRide power sensor. The Kinetic Road Machine | Smart 2 is fitted with the Kinetic inRide 3 power sensor. inRide Power Sensor The KurtKinetic inRide power sensor essentially functions a non-classic power meter. Rather than utilizing strain gauge technology, the inRide uses Virtual Power. Many Kinetic trainers come fitted with an inRide, and upgrading any Kinetic fluid trainer is simple as just installing the power sensor. Two versions of the inRide power sensor are currently available: Untitled_presentation__8_.png You can read more about pairing with the inRide here. Mechanical-only (‘dumb’ trainers) Kinetic traditional trainers are non-electronic and non-interactive. These are geared toward cyclists who cycle for fun only and are not interested in recording metrics. 'Mechanical-only' trainers are compatible with TrainerRoad when used with VirtualPower and a speed/cadence sensor. Kurt Kinetic Mechanical trainers: - Kinetic Road Machine - Kinetic Magnetic - Kinetic Z-Rollers - Cyclone Wind Trainer

Smart Trainers • Last updated on Aug 13, 2026

Wahoo KICKR CORE

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. TrainerRoad_Wahoo_Kickr_Core_11.png Why am I Unable to Calibrate my KICKR CORE using the TrainerRoad App? KICKR COREs on Firmware v1.3.17 and above will automatically calibrate on the fly as you ride. There's no need to calibrate manually with a spindown due to this functionality. You can learn more about this self-calibrating process here. 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. TrainerRoad_Wahoo_Kickr_Core_33.png You will be able to find the KICKR CORE's mode within a workout as the screenshot below illustrates. ERG 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. Core4.png This is what displays when the KICKR CORE is set to Standard mode within a workout: Core5.png Notice the Level adjuster at the bottom of the screen. You can adjust the level with the right and left arrow keys. Core6.png 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. TrainerRoad_Wahoo_Kickr_Core_5.png This is what displays when the KICKR CORE is set to Resistance mode within a workout: TrainerRoad_Wahoo_Kickr_Core_4.png Notice the Level adjuster at the bottom of the screen. You can adjust the level with the right and left arrow keys. mceclip0.png 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.

Smart Trainers • Last updated on Aug 20, 2026

ANT+ FE-C Trainers

Smart bike trainers are quickly growing in popularity — and for good reason. Trainer manufacturers and riders alike are catching on to the numerous benefits that smart trainers have to offer. Perhaps the coolest benefit of a smart trainer is its ability to communicate with cycling applications and control resistance automatically as you workout (ERG mode). With the arrival of smart trainers using the new ANT+ FE-C protocol, you can now use more smart trainers to their full capacity with our software. TrainerRoad should be compatible with all ANT+ FE-C trainers. If your trainer isn't detected, contact [email protected]. Pairing Your ANT+ FE-C Trainer on Mobile View your devices and make sure your ANT+ key is plugged in/enabled and that ANT+ shows as On. Tap on the ANT+ Trainer to begin pairing. Note: Your trainer will show up as 'ANT+ Trainer', rather than ANT+ FE-C. Screen_Shot_2021-03-23_at_1.46.45_PM.png 2. Once your device has paired it will be bordered in green. Tapping it again will open the Device Settings menu. Screen_Shot_2021-03-23_at_1.46.58_PM.png 3. Here you can adjust mode, resistance level, PowerMatch and calibrate. Screen_Shot_2021-03-23_at_1.47.12_PM.png 4. After completing a spindown calibration you will now be ready to ride! Screen_Shot_2021-03-23_at_1.47.26_PM.png If you receive an error message following the spindown calibration, try adjusting the tension on the tire. An error message may indicate too much or too little tension on your rear tire. Pairing your ANT+ FE-C Trainer on Desktop 1. Select the Devices tab and make sure you have an ANT+ USB 2 stick plugged in, then click on the name of the trainer that you wish to pair with. Note: Your trainer will show up as 'ANT+ Trainer', rather than ANT+ FE-C. Screen_Shot_2021-03-23_at_1.47.44_PM.png 2. Your trainer is now paired. Hover your cursor over the device to get it to appear green, as shown below. Click on the trainer's tile to open the settings. Screen_Shot_2021-03-23_at_1.47.58_PM.png 3. Click the white “Calibrate” button to begin your spin down calibration. Screen_Shot_2021-03-23_at_1.48.09_PM.png 4. Follow the directions on your screen to accelerate your bike to the proper speed and maintain that speed for as long as the screen instructs you to. Screen_Shot_2021-03-23_at_1.48.20_PM.png 5. Let your bike spin down freely. Do not use the brakes. Screen_Shot_2021-03-23_at_1.48.32_PM.png 6. When the spindown is complete click “Finish” to accept the calibration value. Now you’re ready to start your workout! Screen_Shot_2021-03-23_at_1.48.51_PM.png Pairing your ANT+ FE-C Trainer to Legacy AIR Apps 1. Select the Devices tab and make sure you have an ANT+ USB 2 stick plugged in, then select "Pair". 2015-05-22_09-01-56.png 2. Your trainer is now paired. (Be sure that the "Enable VirtualPower" is not checked.) 2015-05-22_09-32-25.png 3. Calibrate your device by clicking the "Spindown" button and follow the on-screen instructions. 2015-05-22_09-32-38.png If you receive an error message following the spindown calibration, try adjusting the tension on the tire. An error message may indicate too much or too little tension on your rear tire. 4. Once complete, you're ready to start riding! 2015-05-22_09-34-28.png 2015-05-22_09-34-50.png Updating Your Trainer's Firmware If you're experiencing issues pairing your Tacx ANT+ FE-C trainer, you may need to update your Tacx trainer's firmware with the Tacx Utility App (available in the iOS App Store). To get started, enable Bluetooth on your device. When you open the utility app, you should see your trainer appear on screen — select your trainer. The app will determine which version of firmware you're currently running on your trainer, then give you the option to update your trainer to the latest version. To do so, tap "Upload firmware..." and wait for the firmware to upload and install. Once your firmware has been updated, a completion message will appear. Follow the directions to unplug your trainer and complete the update process. Your firmware should be updated and your Tacx smart trainer ready to pair. You can verify that your firmware update is complete by selecting your trainer from the main screen. If updated correctly, you'll now see the newest version of firmware for your trainer.

Smart Trainers • Last updated on Aug 13, 2026

CycleOps PowerSync

The CycleOps PowerSync is a smart trainer that connects to TrainerRoad through ANT+. TrainerRoad can automatically control the PowerSync's resistance in accordance with the workout's profile. How do I Set Up the PowerSync with TrainerRoad Riders need to pair the PowerSync as a PowerBeam Pro. The PowerSync and CycleOps PowerBeam Pro have the same inner workings, so your power control and readings will not be negatively affected. Learn how to connect it with TrainerRoad here. How Does the PowerSync Work with TrainerRoad? The PowerSync has a selection of two modes that can be used with TrainerRoad. Riders can toggle between ERG and Slope mode by simply pressing the "M" button on their keyboard during their workout. ERG Mode ERG is the most commonly-used mode when doing a TrainerRoad workout with a PowerSync. TR will automatically adjust the resistance on the PowerSync in accordance with the workout's profile in ERG mode. The rider can keep a steady cadence and leave their bike in a single gear for the duration of the workout while the PowerSync makes any necessary adjustments. ERG mode makes for very smooth watts and a great workout! Slope Mode While in Slope mode, the PowerSync delivers a similar experience to that of an adjustable mag trainer. Slope mode is intended to allow the user to emulate the slope, or pitch that a rider would encounter on any given road. After toggling to Slope mode with the "M" key, you can increase or decrease the resistance with your right or left arrow keys respectively. Slope mode is also the default mode for testing intervals. How does the PowerSync work with TrainerRoad during the test workout? TrainerRoad will automatically switch the PowerSync from ERG into Slope mode (level 3.0) during the test intervals (8 or 20 minute periods) of a test workout. We do this because we don't want the app to control your PowerSync and put limitations on how hard you can ride! TrainerRoad will control your PowerSync throughout the warm up, ensuring that you're well prepared for the test(s), but will switch modes once the test starts. Slope mode allows you to shift gears to find the optimal cadence for your test and will help you achieve the highest wattage average possible.

Smart Trainers • Last updated on Aug 13, 2026

Erg Mode Explained

A Smart trainer like the Wahoo KICKR includes a load-restricted mode called Erg Mode. This mode will set your trainer's resistance for you rather than leaving that responsibility on your shoulders. Riding in Erg mode is a little like loosening your grip on the reins of the horse you're riding. You basically give control to your trainer/horse and simply ride. In this mode, smart trainers constantly adjust the resistance to match TrainerRoad's Target Power. Each rider's Target Power is based on your profile's FTP and Erg mode will set your trainer's resistance based solely on this number. When you change that number following an FTP test, your smart trainer will adjust your intervals accordingly. For more specifics on assessing your FTP on a smart trainer, see our related article, How To Test With the Ramp Test. While an exceptionally effective way to train, there's a bit of a learning curve to Erg riding so here's an explanation of what Erg mode is all about along with a number of tips & suggestions to help you get the most out of your part-time ergometer. Erg Mode Basics Erg mode sets your Target Power regardless of your cadence or your gearing selection. You can turn a huge gear at 60rpm with a Target Power of 80% FTP and you'll face the same resistance as you would using a tiny gear at 100rpm even though your speed will be vastly different. Let's say you have a 200w FTP and you're riding an 80% interval with a 100rpm cadence. Any TrainerRoad-supported smart trainer with Erg mode, e.g. KICKR or CompuTrainer, will set the resistance to 160w as you spin steadily. Say your gear selection yields 20mph but you then change your spin to 100rpm but remain in that same gear. Your smart trainer will readjust in order to return the resistance to 160 watts after a couple seconds - some trainers adjust more quickly than others. Even though your speed is now 24mph, you're still only working at 160 watts. Even if you change your spin to 70rpm, the same thing happens - a quick readjustment to keep you at 160w even though you're now pedaling at 14mph. All of this happens in that one gear you've been in the entire time. Simply find a gear that keeps the noise down, leaves your chain pretty straight (no sense increasing wear on your drivetrain with a crossed chain) and forget about shifting, even when you move in & out of the saddle. Nutshell: Shifting is a thing of the past when you use ERG mode. Saddle Transitions Which brings us to a finer point of Erg mode riding. When you move from seated to standing, simply slow your spin & rise - no shifting. When you return to the saddle, try to wind your legs up a little bit as you take your seat and get your cadence back where you like it - again, no shifting. This is a practiced skill and might take some time, but it prevents big surges & drops in power when you change positions. In both instances, the power is going to rise or fall a bit for a couple of seconds but will stabilize rather promptly. Here's the catch though, and this applies to both saddle transitions and long periods of time in or out of the saddle: the more often you change your cadence, the more often your smart trainer has to readjust the resistance and the less "on target" your interval will be & the less accurate your end-of-interval metrics will be as well. This goes for any changes in cadence. When you speed up, the trainer has to make an adjustment to your new cadence, the same when you slow down. So when you alter your cadence, try to resist the temptation to shift; rather, wait for a couple of seconds and watch as your power comes right back in line with where you need it, i.e. your Target Power. Nutshell: Don't shift, don't change your cadence a lot, and have a bit of patience & faith in the technology. Wattage Floor Sometimes when riding low-wattage intervals, riders may come into contact with what we call the "wattage floor" - essentially the trainer's lower mechanical limit. When this happens, riders may not hit their target watts for recovery intervals since the target power is beneath the "wattage floor" of the trainer. In other words, the number of watts it takes to turn the pedals is higher than the target power. When you come into contact with the wattage floor, it will often appear as though your trainer is "floating" above the target power. Each trainer is slightly different, but most commonly riders will encounter the wattage floor when riding recover intervals below 100 watts. WattageFloor2.png The good news is that the wattage floor is usually pretty easy to avoid. If you find that you're running into the wattage floor, try shifting into an easier gear. The trainer's wattage floor is lower when using easy gearing combinations, so down-shifting should allow you to reach those low power targets. Smooth Power Output One advantage of smart trainers is how they keep your power exceptionally smooth. Check out the distinct difference in how closely Target Power matches Actual Power between the same workout done on a regular trainer (top) and on a smart trainer in Erg mode (bottom). Low Cadence Work It's also worth mentioning that during slow-force workouts, i.e. efforts where you're shooting for a really low cadence, say 50-60rpm, a big gear is necessary to hit higher watts with a slow, muscular spin. This is especially true on CompuTrainers but may not be an issue on more newly designed smart trainers. How Does ERG Mode Work in a Free Ride? Erg mode doesn't work well in a Free Ride because there is no power target to hold your trainer to. Instead, your trainer will automatically switch into Resistance mode. Conclusion We hope this helps you blow through the Erg mode learning curve a bit quicker than you might have without this advice. Feel free to contact our support team via live chat or with an email at [email protected].

Smart Trainers • Last updated on Aug 13, 2026

Elite Smart Trainers

TrainerRoad supports compatible Elite smart trainers through the ANT+ FE-C protocol or via Bluetooth 4.0. Elite trainers that are not compatible still can be used with TrainerRoad with our VirtualPower feature. Check out this link for more information on VirtualPower. If you are using an Elite trainer, all you need is TrainerRoad. You do not need to use the Elite software or head unit to use TrainerRoad. Elite Trainers Lists Elite smart trainers that support ERG mode via ANT+ FE-C or Bluetooth: - Elite Qubo Digital Smart B+ - Elite Rampa - Elite Real E-Motion B+ - Elite Real Turbo Muin B+ - Elite RealAxiom B+ - Elite Arion Digital Smart B+ - Elite RealTour B+ - Elite Drivo - Elite Drivo II - Elite Direto Elite smart trainers we support as ANT+ or Bluetooth Smart power meters: - Elite Qubo Power Smart B+ - Elite Turbo Muin Smart B+ - Elite Kura Elite trainers we support via VirtualPower: - Elite Arion - Elite Arion Digital - Elite Arion Mag - Elite E-Motion - Elite Novo Force - Elite Qubo Digital - Elite Qubo Fluid - Elite Qubo Power Mag Pack - Elite Real Turbo Muin B+ - Elite Turbo Muin Settings The Muin's Wheel Circumference should be set to 2070mm when using VirtualPower and a speed sensor. You can adjust the Wheel Circumference settings under the Settings tab of your app. mobile_settings.png mobile_settings_2.png For users with the Elite Misuro B+ Speed/Cadence/Power sensor, follow the Elite instructions regarding wheel circumference. This is (actual wheel circumference in mm/ 13.2). Enter this figure into the above setting.

Smart Trainers • Last updated on Aug 13, 2026