Integrated versatility thanks to Motion Pods, Wi-Fi and a choice of a pre-fitted 11-speed cassette or Zwift Cog & Click: Garmin has unveiled the Tacx Nēra, a new smart trainer priced at €999.99. The trainer, which uses belt technology, offers up to 2,200 watts of resistance and simulates gradients of up to 20 per cent.

With the Tacx Nēra, Garmin is expanding its range of indoor training products. Unveiled on 20 October 2026, this smart trainer is designed to make the transition from the trail to the living room easier and is aimed at ambitious cyclists. Key features include integrated movement for a more natural riding experience, a Wi-Fi connection and two trim levels available at the same price. We do not yet have our own hands-on review of the Nēra. The details about the new model are provided by the manufacturer.

Key technical specifications at a glance

Rather than keeping the bike in a fixed position, the Tacx Nēra Smart Trainer is designed to allow for movement whilst pedalling. To achieve this, Garmin uses integrated Motion Pods, which are intended to provide a more natural riding experience. However, the manufacturer’s specifications do not indicate the extent of this range of motion or how the trainer behaves when standing on the pedals, for example.

For additional vertical movement, the Nēra can be combined with the separately available Tacx Alpine. This incline simulator is designed to tilt the bike to match virtual climbs and descents. According to Garmin, compatible apps also support virtual steering. The trainer’s built-in mobility and the Alpine’s incline function are therefore two distinct features.

Belt technology, 2,200 watts and up to a 20 per cent incline

The Nēra smart trainer uses belt technology and, according to the manufacturer Garmin, offers a maximum resistance of 2,200 watts. The maximum simulated gradient is 20 per cent. This means the trainer is aimed not only at cyclists who want to clock up some base kilometres in winter, but also at ambitious athletes with intensive intervals and sprints in their training plan. Its features include power and cadence measurement. Garmin states a measurement accuracy of ±1 per cent.

Two options: 11-speed cassette or Zwift Cog & Click

Garmin offers the Tacx Nēra with a pre-installed 11-speed cassette, as well as a Zwift-Ready version with a pre-fitted Zwift Cog and the corresponding click switch. The latter enables virtual gear changes in Zwift and Rouvy. The fact that this concept is also being used in existing Tacx models is already demonstrated by the Tacx Neo 2T with Zwift Cog and Click.

The pre-assembled components are designed to make set-up easier. However, some preparation is still required: the bike must be assembled and the trainer connected to the desired training app. Garmin lists road bikes, gravel bikes, mountain bikes, triathlon bikes and time trial bikes as possible uses.

The information provided does not specify the gear range offered by the 11-speed cassette or the exact axle and drivetrain standards it supports. Compatibility should therefore be checked before purchase, particularly for mountain bikes.

Wi-Fi and Race Mode for virtual races

The built-in Wi-Fi is designed to provide a fast and stable connection for virtual rides and races. In addition, the Tacx Nēra Smart Trainer features a Race Mode, which is designed to simulate attacks and intermediate sprints with particularly short response times. The manufacturer does not specify any specific latency figures.

In addition to Wi-Fi, ANT+ and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), including BLE bridging, are available. Garmin is thus supplementing the Wi-Fi connectivity with further connection options for indoor set-ups.

Set-up is carried out via the Tacx Training App. Free workouts are available there; real-world route videos, challenges and other content require a premium subscription. Garmin Coach training plans can also be completed within the app. Compatible Edge cycle computers and Garmin smartwatches can control the training session. In Garmin Connect, you can view indoor and outdoor sessions alongside health and recovery data.

Overview: What’s new compared to the Neo 2T and Neo 3M?

Freedom of movement and virtual gear changes are not, in themselves, new features in the Tacx range: The The Tacx Neo 3M, which has already been tested by BIKE It features built-in motion plates for forwards and backwards movements and also allows for sideways movement. On the Neo 2T, motion plates are an optional extra; a version with Zwift Cog & Click is also already available.

The Nēra now combines belt drive technology, integrated Motion Pods, Wi-Fi and a choice between an 11-speed cassette and virtual gear-shifting for 999.99 euros. It is not possible to deduce from the information provided how the Motion Pods differ from the Neo 3M’s Motion Plates in terms of design and riding feel. The key figures of 2,200 watts and a 20 per cent gradient provide an initial indication of performance, but are no substitute for a direct comparison under identical test conditions.

Price and availability

According to Garmin, both the Tacx Nēra with a pre-installed 11-speed cassette and the version with Zwift Cog & Click will be available from 20 October 2026, each priced at 999.99 euros.

An integrated carrying handle and fold-away feet are designed to make transport easier and ensure that the trainer can be stowed away quickly after a session. Garmin describes its operation as quiet; no specific noise level figures are available.