TACX NEO SMART T2800

£1,199 The Neo Smart was proclaimed the quietest smart trainer upon launch in 2015 and, although Wahoo’s Kickr now takes that crown, we still couldn’t get our meter reading above 65dB. The huge wing-like build makes it incredibly stable, proving solid during several sessions. While you need the adapter to get the most out of the Neo Smart, it can operate via a dynamo in a reduced capacity, which is handy for using on the go but at a beastly 22kg, it’s pretty difficult to cart around. While it appears stingy not to have a cassette included when the price is so high, the Neo is fitted with Edco’s handy Multisys universal freehub, although it’s a shame you have to buy separate adapters for thru-axles, which the other direct drive trainers on test include. So, while we appreciate the road-like feel, cycling tech moves fast and we think it’s now due an upgrade. zyrofisher.co.uk