BIKE assessment
The DT Swiss TRACKR SPEED is not a revolutionary product, but it sets new standards in terms of aesthetics and system integration. Road and gravel cyclists who value a cohesive overall look and ride with DT Swiss wheels will appreciate this solution. For everyone else, the classic Wahoo TRACKR SPEED remains a functionally equivalent and more flexible alternative.
Anyone who has ever fitted a traditional speed sensor to the front wheel will be familiar with the dilemma: the little black box works perfectly, but always looks out of place on high-end wheelsets. DT Swiss tackles this problem head-on – and simply integrates the sensor into the hub itself.
Wahoo technology as a tried-and-tested foundation
Technologically speaking, DT Swiss is not breaking new ground here: the TRACKR SPEED is based on the well-known Wahoo TRACKR SPEED and, according to the manufacturer, delivers identical performance. At its heart is a 3-axis accelerometer, which detects the rotation of the hub and uses this to calculate speed and distance travelled. The key advantage over GPS-only measurement is obvious: where satellite signals become patchy and inaccurate in rugged terrain, narrow gorges or under dense foliage, the accelerometer continues to provide reliable data.
In terms of functionality, however, the DT Swiss TRACKR SPEED is unlikely to stand out from its Wahoo counterpart – the physics behind the measurements remain the same. What DT Swiss offers, rather, is a significant upgrade in terms of integration, design and ease of use.
Built-in rather than surface-mounted
Its real unique selling point is its seamless integration into the hub. DT Swiss offers the TRACKR SPEED for both of its main product ranges: For SPLINE hubs, the sensor adapts to the hub’s distinctive shape, whilst for DICUT hubs, the clean, minimalist design of the product range remains unaffected. Anyone who has ever combined a high-quality wheelset with a bulky sensor clip will immediately appreciate the difference.
As the sensor is integrated directly into the hub, it will not be available as a separate accessory. Instead, it is likely that wheelsets fitted with this technology will be available on the market at a moderate premium. For riders who are already investing in a new DT Swiss wheel set, this is a sensible approach – but for owners of existing DT Swiss wheels, it is not an option for retrofitting.
Rechargeable rather than having to change the batteries
The power supply is also a practical solution: unlike many traditional sensors that use CR2032 button cells, the TRACKR SPEED features a built-in, rechargeable battery that is conveniently charged via a magnetic charging cable. This means there is no need for disposable batteries at all. The wireless connection to a cycle computer, smartwatch or smartphone is established via ANT+ and Bluetooth, ensuring compatibility with all standard platforms.
The Trackr Speed costs 59.99 euros, whilst the G1800 Spline rear wheel is available for 280.90 euros. For the time being, the range is primarily aimed at the road bike and gravel sectors – it remains to be seen whether DT Swiss will extend the system to MTB hubs in the future.
Adrian Kaether
Editor
