Wahoo KICKR CORE 2 with Zwift Cog and Click: An Unbeatable Deal for Your Pain Cave
For years, the Wahoo KICKR CORE has been a benchmark for mid-range direct-drive smart trainers, offering a premium experience without the premium price tag of its higher-end siblings. With the release of the KICKR CORE 2, Wahoo has introduced a host of modern features that further solidify its position as a top contender in the market.
What’s New in the KICKR CORE 2?
The KICKR CORE 2 isn’t just a minor refresh; it’s a significant update that brings several key features previously found only on more expensive trainers. These enhancements improve connectivity, responsiveness, and the overall user experience.
•WiFi Connectivity: The addition of WiFi ensures a more stable and reliable connection to your training apps, and enables automatic firmware updates, so your trainer is always running the latest software .
•Race Mode: For the competitive cyclists, Race Mode provides a faster 10Hz data update rate, resulting in near-instantaneous power reporting and a more responsive feel in virtual races .
•Bluetooth Bridging: This feature, also known as the ‘Sensor Hub’, is a game-changer for Apple TV users, allowing you to connect multiple sensors (like a heart rate monitor) directly through the trainer, bypassing Apple TV’s Bluetooth connection limits .
Key Specifications
Here’s a quick look at the key technical specifications of the Wahoo KICKR CORE 2:
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Feature
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Specification
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Max Wattage
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1,800 watts
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Max Incline
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16% simulated grade
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Power Accuracy
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+/- 2%
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Flywheel Weight
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11.9 lbs / 5.4 kg
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Connectivity
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WiFi, ANT+, Bluetooth
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Compatibility
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130/135mm QR, 12×142, 12×148 Thru Axle
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Weight
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43.5 lbs / 19.7 kg
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The Zwift Cog and Click Advantage
One of the most exciting options for the KICKR CORE 2 is the bundle with the Zwift Cog and Click. This system replaces the traditional cassette with a single cog, and shifting is handled by a simple, wireless remote that you can mount on your handlebars. This setup offers a significant advantage for households with multiple bikes and riders.
The Zwift COG means that it works with basically any-speed bike. Thus, I can put on my 12-speed road/triathlon bike, but also my 13-speed gravel bike, and even an older 11-speed bike.
The virtual shifting is smooth and quiet, and it eliminates the need to swap cassettes when switching between bikes with different drivetrains. However, it’s important to note that the virtual shifting is officially supported only on the Zwift platform. For other training apps, the trainer will operate in ERG mode, where the resistance is controlled by the app, so shifting isn’t necessary.
Performance and Ride Feel
The KICKR CORE 2 continues the Wahoo tradition of providing a smooth, realistic, and quiet ride. The 11.9lb flywheel provides ample inertia for a road-like feel, and the electromagnetic resistance unit responds quickly and accurately to changes in gradient and power targets. Expert reviewers and users alike praise the CORE 2 for its performance, which rivals that of more expensive trainers.
The Unbeatable Deal: $399 for a Limited Time
From February 5th to March 1st, 2026, the Wahoo KICKR CORE 2, with either the Zwift Cog and Click or a standard 11-speed cassette, is on sale for $399. This is a massive $150 discount from the regular price of $549 and matches the lowest price ever offered, typically reserved for Black Friday deals . This promotion is available directly from Wahoo’s website and Zwift.com, and it even includes a free month of Zwift for new subscribers.
The Wahoo KICKR CORE 2 was already a fantastic smart trainer, offering a premium experience at a mid-range price. With the addition of WiFi, Race Mode, and the option of the versatile Zwift Cog and Click system, it became an even more compelling choice. Now, with the price temporarily dropped to an incredible $399, it’s an absolute bargain.
If you’ve been on the fence about upgrading to a direct-drive smart trainer, or if you’re looking for the best bang for your buck in the indoor training market, the Wahoo KICKR CORE 2 is the answer. This deal is too good to pass up.
