CycleOps by Saris Hammer Direct-Drive Trainer
CycleOps Hammer direct-drive smart trainer. © Z. Schuster / Cyclocross Magazine
Why is it a good gift?
The CycleOps by Saris Hammer is one of several direct-drive trainers we reviewed this year. The Hammer features a massive 20-pound flywheel housed within the unit that provides consistent resistance and a road-like feel. The ride is relatively quiet, with a loudness similar to the dishwasher or dryer. With a total weight of 48 pounds and a need to be connected to a power supply, the Hammer and the other direct drive trainers are not portable nor a race-day option.
The Hammer pairs with a variety of training platforms like Zwift using either Ant+ or Bluetooth and it responds quickly and smoothly to changes in grade or resistance while riding. We were impressed with the quality of the ride and the low noise level of the Hammer.
Who is it a good gift for?
Direct-drive trainers do not come cheap, so the Hammer is best suited for cyclocrossers who are serious about winter training. If they dabble in road or mountain biking, the Hammer could be a great tool for hammering out sub-threshold efforts during the winter and then cranking it up as the weather warms and their season approaches to bring good fitness into the season.
Recipient’s possible reaction?
“You bet I will be saying ‘It’s Hammer Time,’ all winter when I do my base workouts.”
Price: $1,200
More info: cycleops.com
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