Magnetic bicycle trainer Tacx T2980.61 — indoor bike trainer, resistance unit, compatible with road and mountain bikes

The Tacx FLUX 2 Smart trainer is a direct-drive indoor bike trainer offering a heavier flywheel and improved ride feel for realistic indoor cycling. Designed for reliable power, speed and cadence measurements, it supports accurate training sessions and can operate connected to training apps or in a stand-alone mode that increases resistance with speed.

Advantages

The FLUX 2 Smart delivers consistent power accuracy within 2.5% and a 7.6 kg (16.8 lb) flywheel for responsive, natural ride dynamics. Its broad, stable footprint allows powerful sprints up to 2,000 watts while producing minimal vibration and noise. Built-in Bluetooth Smart and ANT+ FE-C connectivity enable compatibility with popular training platforms and simultaneous connection to multiple devices. Out-of-the-box axle adapters extend compatibility to 142x12 mm and 148x12 mm thru-axles.

Suitable for

• Indoor training sessions for road and mountain bikes
• Interval training and structured workouts with training apps (e.g., Zwift, TrainerRoad)
• High-intensity efforts and sprint training up to 2,000 W
• Quiet home use where low noise and low vibration are preferred

When it may not be suitable

The FLUX 2 Smart is a direct-drive trainer and requires removal of the rear wheel, so it may not be ideal for users who prefer quick on/off wheel setups or wheel-on trainers. It also focuses on simulated gradients up to 16% and magnetic/eddy-current resistance technology; riders seeking motorized slope simulation greater than 16% or different resistance mechanisms may find other trainer types more appropriate.

Key specifications

• Resistance type: direct-drive (magnetic/eddy-current)
• Power accuracy: ±2.5%
• Maximum sprint power: 2,000 watts
• Maximum simulated gradient: 16%
• Flywheel weight: 7.6 kg (16.8 lb)
• Connectivity: Bluetooth Smart, ANT+ FE-C
• Axle compatibility: compatible with 142x12 mm and 148x12 mm thru-axles (adapters included)

How to use

Install the trainer on a stable, level surface and mount your bike by removing the rear wheel and fitting the frame to the trainer’s axle adapters. Pair the trainer with your preferred app or device using Bluetooth Smart or ANT+ FE-C, or use stand-alone mode where resistance increases with your speed to simulate a flat road. Follow the app instructions for structured workouts or use the trainer’s manual setup for cadence and interval sessions.

What to consider before purchase

• Trainer type: direct-drive requires rear wheel removal
• Bike compatibility: ensure your bike’s axle standard is supported
• Space and surface: needs a stable, level area and enough footprint for sprinting

Usage recommendations

For accurate data, calibrate and warm up the trainer according to the manufacturer’s instructions before each session, and use fan or ventilation to manage heat during long or high-intensity rides.