CycleOps officially released all the specs of their updated CycleOps Hammer 2 or as they are calling it now, H2, and updated Magnus or M2 trainer.

The H2 casing has a more metallic look to it than the matte black they had with the Hammer. Other than that, not much else has been upgraded other than addressing some minor issues users reported with the original Hammer and Magnus.

WHAT’S NEW IN THE H2

The new H2 comes with an improved power accuracy of +/-2%. That’s down from +/-3%.

A headless mode. The headless mode is basically a level mode that most trainers do have when they are plugged into power. With level mode or headless mode, the trainer will create an experience similar to riding outside. The faster you go the harder it gets and it follows the standard resistance curve. I’ve talked about this in more details here.

Here is everything new in their specs sheet:

HAMMER H2 SMART TRAINER
PowerTuned using PowerTap technology for +/- 3% accurate power readings. PowerTuned using PowerTap technology for up to +/- 2% accurate power readings.
Headless mode (powered on, not paired to any apps) lets you ride with a progressive resistance curve that matches the Fluid2.
Transmits power and speed data. (cadence was added to the Hammer this year via a firmware update) Internally integrated speed, cadence and power data eliminates the need for extra external sensors.

M2 SMART BIKE TRAINER

Again, not much has changed with the Magnus other than a name change and the addition of an internal cooling system. Power accuracy remained the same at +/-5%. Other than that and some minor paint job change, everything else remained the same.

MAGNUS M2 SMART TRAINER
Headless mode (powered on, not paired to any apps) lets you ride with a progressive resistance curve that matches the Fluid2.
Internal cooling system moves air through the trainer to keep it cool while active thermal sensors ensure accurate performance data even during the hardest of workouts.
Transmits power and speed data. (cadence is already available in the Magnus but not mentioned in the specs sheet. It was added this year via a firmware update) Internally integrated speed, cadence and power data eliminates the need for extra external sensors.

WORTH THE UPGRADE?

There is nothing wrong with upgrading a product with minor changes. Companies do that all the time. Apple is a good example. It creates a buzz and gets media attention and a renewed interest in their product(s). Wahoo Fitness has been somewhat doing that with every new Wahoo KICKR release. However, with every new KICKR, there was enough to get people thinking of upgrading. For example, the latest update with the KICKR made the new KICKR almost silent. For many, that’s a worthwhile upgrade.

However, with the Hammer and Magnus, I really don’t see a reason for anyone to upgrade to H2 or M2. If you are looking for a smart trainer from CycleOps, I would say save your money and get the Hammer for $1,000 instead. Also, we are seeing almost silent trainers with all the higher end trainers. CycleOps didn’t even attempt to improve the noise on the H2 making it the loudest trainer in its price range.

If you already have the Hammer but intrigued with the power accuracy of the H2 (I don’t think you should be), then maybe investing in a powermeter is the better option for you. Otherwise, if you have the money and just looking to spend it, I am sure the H2 would be a solid option.

Maybe I will change my mind once I fully review the H2.

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Last updated on March 19, 2024 6:57 am

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