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Setting Up a Tacx NEO 3M Smart Trainer

This FAQ will cover the process for setting up your Tacx® NEO 3M Smart trainer including installation, compatibility questions regarding axles, cassettes, and bicycles.

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Unboxing and Set-Up of a NEO 3M Smart Trainer

The following video covers unboxing, unfolding, motion plates, and initial set-up of the Tacx NEO 3M through various connection types:

NOTE: When installing your own cassette, make sure that you tighten the lock-ring down to the manufacturer's recommended torque specification.

Tacx NEO 3M Setup


Chainstay Width Compatibility

The chainstays on your bike must measure a minimum of 62mm wide at 25cm forward of dropouts.


Axle Compatibility

The NEO 3M supports both Quick Release (QR) and thru-axles. It comes with 12x142 mm quick release end caps installed. If your bike requires a different axle, we include end caps and the proper tool to accommodate your setup.

NOTE: NEO 2T Smart trainers are not compatible with axles larger than 12 x 148mm or Super Boost axles.

NEO 3M Axle Compatibility chart for QR and Thru Axle

Bike Installation on Tacx NEO 3M:


12 x 142 mm Installation 

If your bike has a 12 x 142 mm thru axle, it is almost ready to install out of the box.

  1. Open the installation kit and select the two Thru-Axle 12mm end caps.

  2. Snap them into the end cap supports on both sides.

  3. On your bike, shift to the smallest cassette gear and remove the rear wheel

  4. Place your bike on the trainer, making sure the chain is on the smallest sprocket of the trainer cassette.

  5. Insert the axle from your bike into the trainer and hand tighten to the torque indicated for your bike's frame. 

12 mm x 142 thru axle 3m install


12 x 148 mm Installation 

  1. Open the installation kit and select the NDS/148 Thru end cap support.

  2. Use the Blue Tool to remove the existing end cap support on the non-drive side.

  3. Use the Blue Tool to install the NDS/148 Thru end cap support. 

  4. From the installation kit, select the Thru-Axle 12mm end caps. 

  5. Snap them into the end cap supports on both sides.

  6. On your bike, shift to the smallest cassette gear and remove the rear wheel

  7. Place your bike on the trainer, making sure the chain is on the smallest sprocket of the trainer cassette.

  8. Insert the axle from your bike into the trainer and hand tighten to the torque indicated for your bike's frame. 

12x148mm thru axle 3M install


135 Quick Release Installation

  1. Open the installation kit and select the QR end caps.

  2. Snap them into the end caps supports on both sides. 

  3. Insert the QR skewer from the non-drive side of the trainer and replace the conical springs on the skewer (2). 

  4. Hand tighten the skewer cap (3), leaving enough room for the bike frame.

  5. On your bike, shift to the smallest cassette gear and remove the rear wheel. 

  6. Alight your bike on the trainer and place the chain on the smallest sprocket of the trainer cassette. 

  7. Tighten the cap (3) and close the quick release handle (2). 

135 quick release axle install on 3M


130 Quick Release Installation

  1. Open the Installation Kit and select the NDS/130 QR end cap support.

  2. Use the Blue Tool to remove the existing end cap support on the non-drive side.

  3. Use the Blue Tool to Install the NDS/130 QR end cap support. 

  4. From the installation kit, select the QR end caps.

  5. Snap them into the end caps supports on both sides. 

  6. Insert the QR skewer from the non-drive side of the trainer and replace the conical springs on the skewer (2). 

  7. Hand tighten the skewer cap (3), leaving enough room for the bike frame.

  8. On your bike, shift to the smallest cassette gear and remove the rear wheel. 

  9. Alight your bike on the trainer and place the chain on the smallest sprocket of the trainer cassette. 

  10. Tighten the cap (3) and close the quick release handle (2). 

130 quick release install on 3M


Cassette Compatibility

The NEO 3M smart trainer includes an 11 speed 11-28t Shimano/SRAM Hyperglide (HG) cassette. Should you require a different cassette, we recommend using a new cassette to reduce noise levels, ensure good shifting, and improve your cycling experience. 

Shimano/SRAM Cassette Body Compatibility:

A Shimano/SRAM cassette body is included with your NEO 3M Smart trainer. Any 8 to 11 speed Shimano or SRAM cassette and standard locking can be used in combination with this cassette body. Shimano 12 speed Hyperglide+ cassettes are also compatible with the included cassette body. For more information, refer to: Tacx Trainer Compatible With Shimano 12-speed Hyperglide+ Cassette.

What if I Need a Different Cassette Body?

Additional bodies suitable for Shimano Micro Spline, Campagnolo, and SRAM XD-R cassettes can be purchased through Garmin.