Update: Full Hands-on review of the Elite Direto is here
Elite has been working behind the scene to come up with a trainer that is smart, interactive and affordable. The DIRETO, which means simply direct, is simply all of that. It is a direct drive, interactive ANT+ FE-C and Smart Bluetooth compatible, meaning it will work with most compatible cycling training apps such as Zwift, TrainerRoad, Sufferfest, etc.
We started seeing some photos of the trainer during team FDJ Pro Cycling Team warmups at Stage 1 of this year’s Tour de France.
The DIRETO utilizes the certified accuracy of the power readings of Lorenz machines, a German company that has created an industrial torque and power meter reader. Every Direto Elite will ship is tested with their Lorenz machines (certified accuracy of +/- 0.05%) and will include a QC testing/approval identity card with all the data collected during the QC procedure. For 2017, Elite invested in an additional seven Lorzen machines, to bring the total to ten, to ensure every interactive trainer will now go through this QC testing procedure.
This will now include the Drivo, Direto, Rampa, and Arion Digital.
ELITE DIRETO SPECS:
- Price: The trainer is priced at $899. This is will put it in line with Tacx Flux direct drive trainer but with more power and better accuracy.
- Accuracy: Integrated OTS (Optical Torque Sensor) power meter, which measures power with +/- 2,5% accuracy.
- Slope: DIRETO also simulates challenging slopes, up to 14%, with a 1,400 Watt power output at a 40 km/h speed.
- Wireless Transmission: ANT+ (FE-C, Power and Speed & Cadence) and Bluetooth
- Bike Compatibility: The trainer is compatible with both road and MTB frames, including 142 x 12 with thru axles.
- Cassette Compatibility Shimano 9/10/11 speed, SRAM & Campagnolo 9/10/11 speed. Campagnolo with an adapter (not included)
- Flywheel weight: 4.2KG/9.2LBS
I will have the trainer in my hands for testing soon and will have a complete in-depth review with power comparison, sound testing and all very soon.
AVAILABILITY
According to Elite, the DIRETO should be available at U.S. retailers sometimes in September of 2017. This will put it right in time for the indoor training season.
