Cycleops - Virtual Training/Powerbeam new release
bahzob
Posts: 2,195
If you are a looking for a good top end indoor trainer Cycleops have just released a new version of their "Virtual Training" (VT) software that makes their Powerbeam turbo worth looking at.
The old version was already good, the turbo being very smooth and quiet, the desktop having an excellent VR function. See DC rainmaker http://www.dcrainmaker.com/2013/02/cycleops-virtual-training-in-depth-review.html
The new version is significantly better, though also comes with one major drawback.
The main enhancement is that it now has an extremely comprehensive and flexible workout creator that does just about everything I can imagine could be needed. You can pace on power or HR, the VT app will adjust turbo resistance accordingly. This is done very well, if you pace on power then the transition is quick but smooth, pace on HR and it does a very good job of setting the right power. You can also link music and/or video to the workout as a whole or individual intervals.
Bottom line is that if you are used to training with power and have a target TSS you can set up a workout that ensures you will hit this pretty much exactly without you having to think about anything other than keeping the pedals turning. It's also perfect for ramp tests.
(A future release promises the function to take part in virtual races with other users via the net if that grabs you.)
The package as a whole, when combined with the other VR function, makes indoor training as enjoyable as it can be. I'd rather do a 3 hour session on it than go out into winter's cold/rain and the end result regards training benefit will be much greater: every minute is spent on focussed training.
Big drawback though is the price. It makes an already expensive product even more so as there is an annual licence. So I guess this will be stopper for most.
But if you are looking for best turbo out there may be worth checking out.
The old version was already good, the turbo being very smooth and quiet, the desktop having an excellent VR function. See DC rainmaker http://www.dcrainmaker.com/2013/02/cycleops-virtual-training-in-depth-review.html
The new version is significantly better, though also comes with one major drawback.
The main enhancement is that it now has an extremely comprehensive and flexible workout creator that does just about everything I can imagine could be needed. You can pace on power or HR, the VT app will adjust turbo resistance accordingly. This is done very well, if you pace on power then the transition is quick but smooth, pace on HR and it does a very good job of setting the right power. You can also link music and/or video to the workout as a whole or individual intervals.
Bottom line is that if you are used to training with power and have a target TSS you can set up a workout that ensures you will hit this pretty much exactly without you having to think about anything other than keeping the pedals turning. It's also perfect for ramp tests.
(A future release promises the function to take part in virtual races with other users via the net if that grabs you.)
The package as a whole, when combined with the other VR function, makes indoor training as enjoyable as it can be. I'd rather do a 3 hour session on it than go out into winter's cold/rain and the end result regards training benefit will be much greater: every minute is spent on focussed training.
Big drawback though is the price. It makes an already expensive product even more so as there is an annual licence. So I guess this will be stopper for most.
But if you are looking for best turbo out there may be worth checking out.
Martin S. Newbury RC
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