Tacx Neo 3M smart trainer test: Indoor cycling with more freedom of movement

Update: We have now tested the Tacx Neo 3M indoor trainer. You can read our experience with the device in the section: Practical test of the Tacx Neo 3M.

Garmin has unveiled the Tacx Neo 3M, a further development of the popular smart trainer. With the integration of motion plates, the new Neo 3M is designed to offer an even more realistic riding experience than its predecessors, such as the Tacx Neo 2T and the Tacx Neo Bike. This innovation is part of the continuous improvements since the acquisition of Tacx by Garmin in 2019.

Tacx promises: Fascinatingly realistic indoor cycling

Tacx continues to rely on the proven Neo technology for the level-up of indoor bike training. The Tacx Neo 3M has a magnetic motor brake with 32 neodymium magnets and a virtual flywheel. This brake unit makes it possible to simulate different surfaces such as cobblestones, gravel or wooden planks by controlling the magnets individually. By dispensing with a belt, the magnetic brake unit offers two advantages: fewer wearing parts and less background noise.

The Tacx Neo 3M can simulate inclines of up to 25 per cent. The inertia is dynamically adapted to the weight of the rider, the speed and the incline. The manufacturer promises a measurement accuracy of less than one per cent, which has been improved compared to the previous model (Neo 2T). The Smart Trainer enables a maximum output of 2200 watts.

But now for the exciting new part: the integrated motion plates. These offer the rider more freedom of movement during indoor bike training. Thanks to the longitudinal movement forwards and backwards and the improved lateral mobility, riding in an upright position feels more natural and prevents pain in the seat area or back problems. Similar concepts can also be found with other manufacturers, such as the Wahoo Kickr Move, to create a more natural riding experience.

Tacx Neo 3M gets a new look

In addition to the motion plates, the Tacx Neo 3M offers further improvements compared to the Tacx Neo 2T. The feet have been enlarged and an integrated carrying handle makes it easier to store and position the Smart Trainer. In addition, the stop sockets have been revised to make it easier to mount bikes with thru axles or quick-releases. An integrated LED display also shows the power when pedalling.

Indoor training out of the box

Simply unpack and get started - at least as soon as the bike is mounted on the trainer. A practical feature is the pre-installed 11-speed cassette, which is compatible with Shimano and Sram. An additional freewheel body is also available for an extra charge. The Tacx Training App accompanies you as you take your first steps with the new Smart Trainer. Particularly practical: The Tacx Neo 3M does not need to be calibrated.

• Maximum braking power: 2,200 watts
• Simulable gradient: 25 per cent
• Accuracy (manufacturer's specification): +/- 1 per cent
• Floor space: 63 x 80 cm
• Weight: 23.6 kilos
• Price: 1999.99 euros (incl. Shimano/Sram 11-speed cassette) >> e.g. available here at a reduced price

The Tacx Smart network adapter is available as an option and ensures a more stable transmission to the training software. This is particularly interesting for virtual races or when the WLAN connection is unstable.

In addition to the purchase of the Tacx Neo 3M, the Premium subscription to the Tacx Training App is available free of charge for three months. With this app, training plans can be synchronised in the Garmin Connect calendar and you can take part in virtual group rides or training rides with WorldTour pros. The routes and landscapes are realistically designed - almost the biggest advantage of indoor cycling: I can travel to places all over the world and cycle there without leaving my home.

Practical test of the Tacx Neo 3M

As soon as I set it up, I realise that the Smart Trainer is really smart: you lift it out of the box like a thick suitcase (23.6 kg according to the manufacturer) using a sturdy handle. The legs fold out smoothly after unlocking and give the Tacx Neo 3 M a firm stand - if that's what you want. But more on that in a moment. The bike is quickly and easily locked in place. The "Tacx Training" app is installed for testing purposes and quickly connects to the smart trainer. The promise of being able to simply get started works for me at least.

In order to be able to compare the app on different devices, it can be run on a smartphone, a tablet and a laptop. The mobile phone has too small a display for the many data fields and because of the dull experience of the video rides - but in case of doubt it works for a quick lap and for tracking the training data. The tablet (Huawei) constantly caused problems when connecting to the Tacx trainer. So it was cancelled due to the annoyance factor. The Windows laptop, on the other hand, was the king because its large display can show significantly more data fields together with the video ride. The Bluetooth connection was also the quickest to establish.

Firm footing or natural to-and-fro?

What makes the Tacx Neo 3M so special is the technology known as "motion plates", which allows the entire trainer to move forwards and backwards. Two rotary knobs unlock the upper part of the legs from the lower part, allowing them to move lengthways in relation to each other. This feels almost "real" - just like on a real bike - and actually protects the buttocks from excessive strain.

The Tacx Smart Trainer is also very quiet. We also tried using it next to the TV, which didn't really need to be turned up to hear what was being said. The physical gear changes also worked smoothly with the combination we used. However, as the Tacx trainer is supplied with an 11-speed cassette with a maximum of 28 teeth, contrary to the actual configuration of the bike with a standard mountain bike cassette, some of the climbs were unusually tough. Think about the chainring and possibly swap it for a smaller one if you want to use your MTB on the Smart Trainer. Or remove the existing cassette from the bike and put it on the trainer! My oval chainring seemed to be problem-free.

Starting off on the Smart Trainer also feels very realistic because - like some other manufacturers - Tacx relies on a virtual flywheel, i.e. a motor generates the resistance. The maximum (braking) power of 2500 watts and a simulated 25% incline were more than enough for my amateur legs. The data analysis (later in the Garmin Connect app) shows the usual values for speed, cadence and power - but I personally miss at least the R/L force distribution on the pedals, which my power meter pedals would provide in the great outdoors. Technically difficult, however, as the indoor bike can only measure the torque applied to the cassette/hub.

Conclusion on the Tacx Neo 3M smart trainer

For €1999 (without cassette and power adapter) or €2229 (with both), the Tacx Smart Trainer is as expensive as a complete bike, but you still need a real one to use it - which is not available outside. On the other hand, the assembly is so simple that you can quickly remove and install the bike if necessary. In addition, the Neo 3M is so compact when the legs are folded that it can be stored in almost any home - a major advantage. It is also so quiet and almost vibration-free that you can easily complete your training sessions even with sensitive neighbours, flatmates and partners.