Tacx

Flow Trainer

While some trends are nothing but perplexing, we find that some things are popular for good reason. Case in point is the Tacx Flow Trainer. We argue that it's the most popular team trainer at every Grand Tour, and Tacx will also support this assertion. After all, everyone from Gilbert to Nibali rides Tacx, and as you'll find out, it's easy to see why.

Tacx constructed the Flow trainer's frame from aluminum, making it both sturdy and lightweight. More importantly, though, when this material is coupled with the Flow's slanting and sweeping design, it provides a bit of rebound in response to your efforts. Accordingly, this creates a more realistic ride characteristic than your standard, folding trainer.

And while the Flow is a bit of a marvel in terms of its industrial design, its functionality remains far more impressive. With the Flow, Tacx grants you access to your heart rate readings, power output, speed, and pedaling frequency. In more precise terms, your power is readable from 10 to 990 watts, and in readings of current, average, and maximum power. Likewise, you can read speed in categories of current, stop watch, trip distance, maximum, and average speed. And in terms of cadence, the Flow is capable of providing current, average, maximum, and total revolution readings per session. But, you're probably wondering where this information is displayed? Well, it's actually displayed on a beautifully designed onboard computer. This computer mounts over the faceplate of your stem with two points of attachment. It's easy to navigate through, and it transmits your metrics directly to your home computer.

Once you get riding, the Flow allows you to adjust your workout for both power and slope. In fact, the Flow is capable performing catalyst training in positions ranging from -4 to +9 degrees. Additionally, the Flow operates off of an electro-brake system with six magnets and a 2kg flywheel. So, you're able to maintain a realistic resistance under the wheel. And speaking of resistance, the Flow features a maximum resistance of 800 watts -- more than enough to make efforts of climb feel like a climb.

The Tacx Flow Trainer is available in one color and in one size. It's adjustable in order to accommodate various wheel sizes, from 600 to 640mm and 690 to 710mm. Please note that this trainer includes the Skyliner front wheel support, and it is compatible for upgrade to the i-Flow system.