Smart trainers have become more affordable and accessible, but finding the perfect balance between price, features, and performance is a challenge. In late 2025, the sweet spot seems to be around £500 or $600, and we're here to find out which models are worth your investment. But here's the catch: with so many options, how do you choose the right one?
The Contenders:
JetBlack Victory: At £399 / $399 / €449.95, this model dominated the market in 2024 with an unbeatable price-to-performance ratio. But can it hold its ground in 2025?
Wahoo Kickr Core 2: Released in September, this long-awaited update to Wahoo's mid-range smart trainer comes with a higher price tag of £499.99 / $549.99 / €549.99. But is it worth the extra cost?
Elite Rivo: An updated version of the popular Suito, the Rivo borrows design elements from Elite's flagship model while keeping the price competitive at just under £500 or €520. But does it live up to its predecessor's reputation?
Specifications:
All three trainers boast impressive specs, claiming to cater to 99% of riders. They utilize direct-drive designs, ensuring a seamless connection to your bike. The Elite Rivo, JetBlack Victory, and Wahoo Kickr Core 2 offer similar features, but there are some notable differences.
Performance and Features:
- Power and Gradient: The JetBlack Victory and Wahoo Kickr Core 2 share a maximum power ceiling of 1,800 watts and can simulate gradients up to 16%. The Elite Rivo surpasses them with a 2,100-watt ceiling and 18% gradient capability.
- Connectivity: All trainers support Bluetooth and WiFi, but the Rivo lacks ANT+ connectivity. This could be a deal-breaker for some, as ANT+ is still widely used in the cycling world.
- Flywheel and Weight: The Rivo is the lightest at 10kg, with a 3.5kg flywheel. The Victory weighs 12.9kg with a 4.7kg flywheel, while the Kickr Core 2 is the heaviest at 18kg with a 5.4kg flywheel. These differences impact the overall feel and storage convenience.
Setup and User-Friendliness:
The Kickr Core 2 shines with its color-coded legs and axle adaptors guide, making setup a breeze for beginners. The Victory also has color-coded legs, but lacks the axle guide. The Rivo, however, doesn't offer either, which might be a drawback for less experienced riders.
Performance in Action:
- Connectivity Quirks: While all trainers offer WiFi, the Elite Rivo's virtual shifting is limited to Bluetooth. This means missing out on faster data transfer speeds when using WiFi, which can be a frustration for Zwift Cog users.
- Ride Feel: The Kickr Core 2 takes the crown here, offering a smoother and more realistic experience. The Victory is a close second, while the Rivo's lighter flywheel results in a slightly choppier feel.
- Noise: Thankfully, all three trainers produce similar noise levels, around 60-65 decibels, which is quiet enough to be masked by headphones and a fan.
- Data Accuracy: The Kickr Core 2 and JetBlack Victory excel with automatic calibration, ensuring precise power data. The Elite Rivo requires manual calibration and may not satisfy those seeking the utmost accuracy.
The Verdict:
In terms of performance, the Wahoo Kickr Core 2 is the winner. It offers the best ride feel, accurate data, and all the essential features. However, the JetBlack Victory is a strong contender, delivering nearly identical performance for a lower price. The only drawback? JetBlack's distribution network isn't as extensive as Wahoo's.
As for the Elite Rivo, it's a capable trainer, but it falls short in certain areas. The competition has evolved, and the Rivo hasn't kept up. Its accuracy issues and lack of WiFi virtual shifting might deter serious riders.
So, which one should you choose? It's a tough call, but the JetBlack Victory offers incredible value for money, while the Wahoo Kickr Core 2 is the top performer. The Elite Rivo, while not a bad choice, might leave you wanting more. And this is the part most people miss—the small details that make a big difference in your indoor training experience. So, which trainer will you ride with? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
