This article applies to KICKR, MOVE, and CORE trainers. Links on this page will open into new tabs to ensure you do not lose your place in the troubleshooting flow.
1. ERG mode explained
Power accuracy of both the trainer and third party power meters can be affected by a variety of factors. The KICKR v5 and later, MOVE, and CORE power readings are calibrated during the auto-spindown calibration process. KICKR v4 and earlier should be calibrated every two weeks or every time the trainer is moved.
Before proceeding, be aware that no two power meters give exactly the same reading. Multiple identical, simultaneously broadcasting power meters have been empirically proven to report different power numbers, even during the same workout.
Factors responsible for this difference include:
- Freedom of motion
- Data transmission rate
- Packet loss
- Wireless interference
- Sensor or strain gauge location*
- Temperature
- Humidity
- Differences during calibration
- Battery life
- Accuracy tolerances
- Leg imbalances
* Specifically because of their location -- pedal and crank-based power meters will generally read:
- marginally higher than a hub-based power meter in all scenarios
- substantively higher than hub-based power meters in instantaneous power
as all power is mediated through the drivetrain. The dirtier or more worn the drivetrain, the greater the power loss between power input at pedal/crank and output at wheel hub. Note, this power recording difference is because of precision and accuracy in both devices measurements.
Additionally, trainer power accuracy tolerances of +/- 1-2% combine with your other power meter's tolerance. This means that if your your third party power meter is rated to report +/- 3%, your total combined accuracy tolerance will be +/- 4-5% at any given time.
Lastly, be aware that it is also easier to generate power outdoors than indoors, as explained in this article on the Wahoo blog.
2. Connect the trainer to the Wahoo app
If you have been trying to connect to a different app, try connecting the trainer to the Wahoo app.
If the app you were trying to pair to initially was the Wahoo app, skip this step.
5. Check for a firmware update, and if available, update.
See Firmware update process + troubleshooting
Once updated, or if already updated:
- Force close the Wahoo app
- With the Wahoo app closed, unplug the trainer for 30-35 seconds
- Plug the trainer back in, and re-open your preferred app.
6. Recalibrate power meter
Because power is a relative measurement, all power meters require regular calibration. If possible, try recalibrating your power meter. Consult your power meter's manufacturer support documentation for detailed recalibration procedures.
As previously discussed, remember that two correctly calibrated power meters may not report exactly the same measurements. What should be consistent is the relative reading of a single power meter for equivalent effort across time (both within a workout and across workouts).
Testing for accuracy on a different bike is also recommended.
If you're certain that your power meter is calibrated correctly and tested with another bike, and the difference in power reading cannot be accounted for in the combined accuracy tolerance ranges of the two power meters 2% + X% of your third party power meter, please continue.
7. Complete a factory spindown
Open the Wahoo app and complete a factory spindown. See Factory spindown KICKR/MOVE/CORE.
If your concern is unresolved or you have questions, please submit a support request and our support team will be happy to assist you further.