Genius Smart Trainer Features

Below are details regarding the features of the Genius Smart trainer that will have influence on your indoor cycling experience.

Virtual Flywheel

The Genius Smart is not equipped with a physical flywheel. Instead, it is designed with a powerful motor combined with smart electronics which results in a virtual flywheel. This feature is capable of simulating inertia according to the rider's weight, speed, incline, and other existing factors during an outdoor ride. The use of a virtual flywheel results in a more realistic simulation of riding your bike outdoors.

The virtual flywheel also offers some additional features including:

Downhill Drive

The downhill drive feature means that the resistance unit will speed up while you are cycling on a downhill slope. In this situation you can enjoy the convenience of cycling downhill, relaxing your muscles and prepare for the next climb. 

Automatic Calibration

The Genius Smart does not require a manual calibration. Because of the virtual flywheel, Genius will automatically calibrate due to its downhill drive functionality. 

Workout Types

There are a couple of different workout types which could be selected for your training sessions. All bike trainers behave or respond different to these workout types. This section is written to help you understand what the differences are and what to expect. The following workout types are of importance:

ERG Mode

During a power based training the resistance unit tries to hold the desired power or resistance level set by the application being used. The power output created by the cyclist is measured and the resistance unit will adjust to match the desired power level. The time to change between power levels is influenced by the strength of the resistance unit, weight of the flywheel and changes in speed or cadence. he Genius isn’t equipped with a flywheel, but a Virtual flywheel, meaning that the response time of the resistance unit during a power based workout is almost instantaneously.

Slope, Video, & Virtual Reality

All Tacx bike trainers are spec'd with a maximum incline value. This value is calculated with a body weight of 143 lbs (65 kg) in reference to the "strength" of the resistance unit when cycling 6 mph (10 km/h). It is important to understand that when your body weight is higher, the maximum incline the trainer is able to simulate will be lower.