Using a Wattbike Atom to cross-train for runners: a smart bike revolution

Introduction to the next-generation Wattbike Atom

The Wattbike Atom (Next Generation) has taken the indoor cycling world by storm, offering a next generation experience for riders of all levels. But this smart bike is not just for cyclists – runners can also reap the benefits of incorporating the Wattbike Atom into their training regime.

In this guide, we will explore how using a Wattbike Atom to cross-train can help improve your running performance and overall fitness levels. From its advanced technology and realistic ride feel to its adjustable resistance levels and personalised training plans, the Wattbike Atom offers a unique opportunity for runners to cross-train and take their training to the next level.

A brief overview of the Wattbike Atom

• The Wattbike Atom is a high-end exercise bike that simulates the feel of riding outdoors, making it a standout among other exercise bikes.
• It’s a premium product with a retail price of around £2,399.
• This review will cover the features, ride feel, tech, ergonomics, and more to help you decide if it’s worth the investment.

The benefits of cross-training for runners

As a runner, you may be wondering how incorporating cycling into your training can benefit your running performance. Cross-training is the practice of incorporating different types of exercises and activities into your routine to help improve overall fitness and prevent overuse injuries.

Cycling on a Wattbike Atom offers several benefits for runners, including:

• Low impact: cycling is a low-impact activity that puts less strain on your joints compared to running, making it an ideal form of cross-training for runners.
• Improved cardiovascular fitness: the Wattbike Atom offers a challenging cardiovascular workout that can help improve your overall endurance and stamina, which is essential for long-distance running.
• Strengthening muscles: cycling works different muscle groups than running, helping to strengthen and balance muscles throughout the lower body, including the quads, glutes, and hamstrings.
• Active recovery: using a Wattbike Atom for active recovery after long runs can help improve blood flow to tired muscles and aid in their repair and recovery.

Design and build of the smart bike

The bike: a closer look

The Wattbike Atom has a sleek and modern design with a sturdy frame that can accommodate riders up to 135kg. It features an adjustable seat, handlebars, and pedals, allowing for the perfect fit for any rider.

• The Wattbike Atom has a sturdy aluminium frame and is available in the UK for a retail price of around £2,399.
• The bike has a compact footprint and is lightweight, making it easy to store and transport.
• The bike has a durable ABS plastic cover.

Additionally, the handlebars can be adjusted to include tri bars, which are useful for holding a tablet and making gear shifting easier during cycling.

The Hub: the heart of the Wattbike Atom

At the core of the Wattbike Atom is its revolutionary electromagnetic resistance system, which offers smooth and precise control over your workout intensity. The resistance can be adjusted in real-time using the digital display or through the Wattbike Hub app.

• The Wattbike Hub is a free app that contains an extensive set of workouts and training plans.
• The Hub also shows your Pedal Effectiveness Score (PES) and provides instant feedback on your pedal stroke, allowing you to monitor your PES while Zwifting.

Key features of the Wattbike Atom

Smart bike technology: what sets the Wattbike Atom apart

As a smart bike, the Wattbike Atom is equipped with advanced technology that provides real-time data and analysis of your ride. The Atom features dual-band ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for seamless integration with popular training apps such as Zwift, TrainerRoad, and Rouvy. Compared to other smart trainers like Peloton, NordicTrack, Wahoo Kickr Bike, and Tacx Neo Bike, the Wattbike Atom stands out with its unique features and competitive price point.

• The Wattbike Atom uses an electromagnetic resistance system to provide a power range of zero to 2,500 watts and simulates gradients of up to 25 per cent.
• The bike has a claimed power accuracy of +/-1 per cent.
• The bike connects to devices via ANT+, BLE (Bluetooth), and FE-C.

Gearing and shifting: a seamless experience

The Atom features a virtual flywheel that replicates the experience of riding on the road. The bike also has two gears, which can be easily shifted using buttons on the handlebars or through the Wattbike Hub app. The two gears provide a realistic and smooth ride feel, allowing for easy transitions between flat roads and hills.

• Using the shift buttons on the handlebars or through the app, you can easily switch between the two gears.
• The bike has a unique gearing system that uses buttons on the handlebars.
• The gearing system can be configured using the Wattbike Hub app.

Performance and ride feel of the Wattbike Atom

How does it feel? a review of the Wattbike Atom’s ride quality

The Wattbike Atom offers a realistic and smooth ride feel, thanks to its advanced technology and design. The bike’s electromagnetic resistance system provides precise control over the intensity of your workout, while the virtual flywheel mimics the feeling of riding on the road.

• The bike has a claimed power accuracy of +/- 1 per cent, offering accurate data for tracking progress and performance.
• The Wattbike Atom has a mechanical feel through the cranks and pedals.
• The bike has a sequential 22 gears and no mechanical inputs to further gamify apps.
• The bike has a near-silent operation and is comfortable to ride, with four adjustment points for ergonomics.

Responsiveness and noise: a critical evaluation

The Wattbike Atom is known for its near-silent operation, making it a great option for home use. The bike also offers quick and responsive resistance changes during workouts, providing a realistic experience for riders.

• The electromagnetic resistance system allows for quick and precise adjustments to the workout intensity.
• The bike has an almost silent operation, perfect for home use.
• The bike has a noticeable delay before the watts are registered and your avatar starts moving.
• The delay is most likely due to the processing of data sent from the Wattbike by the Zwift app.
• The bike is not particularly noisy, measuring in at approximately 70 decibels at 70 rpm.

Connectivity and app compatibility of the smart bike

Wattbike Atom connectivity: seamless integration with your devices

The Wattbike Atom offers dual-band ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for easy integration with a variety of devices. The bike is compatible with popular training apps such as Zwift, TrainerRoad, and Rouvy.

• The bike is compatible with popular training apps such
• The bike connects to devices via ANT+, BLE (Bluetooth), and FE-C.
• The bike can connect to a heart rate strap, GPS device, and mobile or tablet.
• The bike can also connect to a laptop via Bluetooth 4.0 or better.

App compatibility: a review of the Wattbike Atom’s software

The Wattbike Atom is designed to work seamlessly with a variety of training apps, providing a personalised and engaging workout experience for users. The free Wattbike Hub app offers an extensive range of workouts and training plans, while also allowing for data tracking and analysis.

• The Wattbike Hub app offers an extensive library of workouts and training plans.
• The app allows for real-time
• The bike is compatible with Zwift and other third-party apps.
• The bike is also compatible with other apps that support ANT+FEC connectivity, Bluetooth, and Fitness Machine Service (FTMS) protocol.

Training and workout experience with the Wattbike Atom

Training with the Wattbike Atom: a review of its capabilities

The Wattbike Atom is designed to provide a comprehensive and versatile training experience for riders of all levels. The bike’s advanced technology and connectivity allow for personalised workout plans, data tracking, and analysis.

• With dual-band ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity, the bike can integrate with popular
• The bike has good connectivity with Zwift and Wattbike’s own training software.
• The bike has a wide range of training programs and data screens.
• The bike has a Pedalling Effectiveness Score, which visually maps how well you are pedalling.

Workout experience: using the Wattbike Atom for indoor cycling

The Wattbike Atom offers a realistic and engaging workout experience, making it a popular choice for runners and indoor cycling enthusiasts. Its advanced technology, smooth ride feel, and compatibility with various apps make it an ideal training tool for riders of all levels.

• With two gears and easy shifting options, the bike allows for
• The Wattbike Atom is designed for serious cyclists who want to train in their homes.
• The bike provides a realistic road feel and immersive workouts.

Comparison to other smart bikes

Indoor smart bike comparisons: how the Wattbike Atom stacks up

The Wattbike Atom is a top-performing smart bike, known for its advanced technology, realistic ride feel, and smooth operation. When compared to other popular indoor bikes, such as Peloton and NordicTrack, the Wattbike Atom stands out for its accurate power measurement and versatile connectivity options.

• The Peloton bike offers live classes with motivating instructors, while the Wattbike Atom allows for a more personalised and data-driven workout experience.
• The NordicTrack S22i offers incline and decline functionality, while the Wattbike Atom, with its advanced technology, focuses on providing a realistic ride feel.
• The Wattbike Atom’s compatibility with various training apps sets it apart from other smart bikes on the market. Whether you prefer Zwift, TrainerRoad, or Rouvy, the Wattbike Atom can seamlessly integrate with your preferred app.
• It’s designed for serious cyclists who want to train in their homes, rather than for casual riders.
• The bike is significantly cheaper than the Wahoo Kickr Bike and Tacx Neo Bike Smart. Customer Support and Experience with Wattbike

Customer support: a review of Wattbike’s service

Wattbike offers a comprehensive and responsive customer support service for their products. Whether you have questions about setting up your Wattbike Atom or need help troubleshooting an issue, Wattbike’s team is available to assist via phone, email, or online chat.

• Wattbike offers a 2-year warranty on the Atom smart bike.
• The company has a dedicated team to address any issues or questions customers may have.
• Wattbike also offers online resources, including manuals and FAQs, for self-service assistance.
• Wattbike has a focused approach to customer support, with delivery to your requested location and technical advice available.
• The bike comes with a 2-year warranty and 30-day free returns.

Customer reviews: what real users think of the Wattbike Atom

Overall, customer reviews for the Wattbike Atom are positive, with many users praising its advanced technology and realistic ride feel. Some customers have noted issues with connectivity and data tracking, but these seem to be minor concerns in comparison to the bike’s overall performance.

• Users appreciate the versatility of the Wattbike Atom, noting its ability to connect with a variety of training apps.
• Customers have reported a positive experience with the Wattbike Atom, praising its high-quality construction and realistic road feel.
• Some customers have reported issues with missing accessories and software problems.

Final thoughts: is the Wattbike Atom the right smart bike for you?

In conclusion, the Wattbike Atom is a top-performing smart bike that offers advanced technology, a realistic ride feel, and versatile connectivity options. It’s designed for serious indoor cyclists who want to train in their homes and provides a comprehensive and engaging workout experience.

While it may not have the same live class options or incline/decline functionality as other popular smart bikes on the market, the Wattbike Atom’s accurate power measurement and compatibility with various training apps make it a top choice for cyclists of all levels. Combined with its strong customer support and positive reviews from real users, the Wattbike Atom is definitely worth considering for your indoor cycling needs.

So if you’re looking for a high-quality smart bike that will take your indoor training to the next level, the Wattbike Atom may just be the perfect fit for you. Why not purchase a Wattbike Atom today from wattbike.com.

At £2,399 it is a significant investment, but for serious runners looking to improve their training and performance, it is well worth the cost.

You may also consider signing up for our newsletter at Coach the Run, we often post discount codes for products that we promote. So, keep an eye out and take advantage of any offers that come your way! Happy cycling!

Final Verdict: a review of the Wattbike Atom’s value proposition

• The Wattbike Atom is a top-of-the-line bike for serious runners and cyclists who want to train in their homes.
• It’s a premium product with a high price point but offers a unique and realistic riding experience.
• The bike is a good option for those who want a high-quality indoor cycling experience.

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About this review:

We purchased these products with our own money. Our review contains affiliate links, where we may earn a small fee from a purchase. All our reviews are honest and fair.