Wahoo Fitness has unveiled a new addition to its product line-up. The KICKR RUN Smart Treadmill features what is being billed as ‘a revolutionary new sensing system’ – RunFree Mode – which allows users to change pace without touching the controls.
Wahoo adds that KICKR RUN gives runners an immersive indoor running experience with hands-free changes in pace, plus a full integration with Zwift Run, giving the ability to automatically feel changes in gradient as runners explore virtual worlds.
According to Wahoo… ‘This exciting new product is the first of its kind, and will transform indoor running in the same way that the KICKR Smart Trainer did for cyclists when it launched over a decade ago.’
Priced at US$5,000, KICKR RUN will launch in the USA in the summer of 2024, with an international rollout from 2025. It will be exclusively unveiled ahead of this, at the Boston Run Show (January 27-28, 2024), with live demos running throughout the show weekend.
The KICKR RUN treadmill delivers a running experience that allows users to run according to their pace, form and goals. With RunFree Mode, a high-speed motor reacts in milliseconds to the runner’s position on the running surface, allowing natural pace changes without touching the controls.
Easy to use ‘nudgeable’ control paddles give complete control and there are built in features such as the ‘time-of-flight’ sensor to keep users centred on the treadmill.
KICKR RUN allows runners to focus on their training. A responsive surface for natural energy return helps to propel runners forward at their normal outdoor pace. Meanwhile, an innovative lateral tilting capability provides a dynamic running experience to simulate the road. With tilting functionality, users can also automatically level their KICKR RUN.
Designed for focused training, featuring smart treadmill functionality for structured workouts, with automatic speed and grade control from third party applications, the KICKR RUN connects to software platforms such as ZWIFT and Wahoo SYSTM for virtual training.
With elite speed capabilities of up to 4:00/mile, the KICKR RUN is also fully integrated with the Wahoo ecosystem of heart rate monitors, smart watches, and accessories.
There is an integrated laptop/tablet shelf as well as bottle holders for accessible hydration. Devices can also be charged on the go via a USB-C port. WiFi connectivity ensures set-up to a user’s chosen training software, while the direct connect port offers the most reliable hardwired connection.
Chip Hawkins, Founder of Wahoo Fitness, said “I have been working behind the scenes with a very talented group of Wahooligans developing KICKR RUN for over 7 years – so I am delighted to see it come to market.
“As passionate runners – we wanted to create the most realistic experience and create a tool that helps people improve, become better athletes and achieve their goals. The KICKR RUN will revolutionise indoor running, in the same way that the KICKR did for indoor cycling over a decade ago.”
