Indoor cycling with Truekinetix: Truetrainer gets an update: Version 8.2 with USB & HDMI

The Dutch smart trainer from Truekinetix is above all lighter than most other high-quality devices: it weighs 15 kilos - because the Truetrainer does not have a heavy flywheel, but works entirely via the electronic control of the drive. Pedalling feels very realistic, as the flywheel does not have to be set in motion when pedalling - according to our test experience.

The second advantage over many other smart trainers is that the electronic control unit provides 400 virtual gear combinations. A physical 11-speed MTB cassette with 11-42 teeth, for example, can be virtually swapped for a road bike cassette with 11-28 teeth. Or electronically upgrade a 32-tooth chainring to 42.

Now the Dutch company from the small town of Hillegom near Amsterdam has given its smart trainer an update. The features described remain the same. What is new is the following:

Update 2024: What's new in Truetrainer 8.2

1. TV integration: With the new HDMI connection, the roller trainer now transmits live training data, such as cadence and power, directly to the TV. According to the manufacturer, this is the first direct drive trainer with this function.
2. Versatile charging: The energy generated during training can now be used to charge devices via an integrated USB port. The tablet with Zwift, Rouvy & Co. no longer needs its own socket or extension cable.
3. Thanks to the Truetrainer's new rechargeable battery, you can now train for up to 3 hours without a power supply. This is useful for warming up before races, when travelling or at training camps.

We already liked that about Truetrainer 6.2

In addition to the aforementioned advantages of the virtual gears, the new Truetrainer also has special rubber feet and long, fold-out legs. Together, this enables a stable stance even when pedalling in the saddle, but also a certain flexibility, which is closer to the natural movement on the bike.

The Smarttrainer is also quite small and - thanks to its low weight of 15 kilograms - easy to store, for example, compared to a Tacx Neo 3M (23.6 kilograms). Even though the Truetrainer 8.2 now costs 1699 euros with the update, it is still below the Tacx (1999 euros) or almost on a par with the Wahoo Kickr Move (1599 euros). However, it weighs a hefty 29 kilos and has no virtual gears to choose from.

And perhaps Truekinetix will lower the prices for Truetrainer 4.2 and 6.2 in its own online shop now that the update is on the market.

You can find out more about the predecessor model - the Smarttrainer Truetrainer 6.2 - in our article: Indoor cycling: Truetrainer offers real shifting with (almost) endless virtual gears