Wahoo’s KICKR is the most popular smart trainer in the world, and for good reason – it was one of the first, it’s built like a tank, and it’s backed by Wahoo’s solid support and distribution network.

Now in its 6th generation, things can get a little confusing if you’re looking to buy a used KICKR or pick up some new/old stock at a bargain price.

Here’s a complete rundown of all the differences between each KICKR generation so you can tell them apart visually and understand the evolution of this smart trainer.

Identifying Your KICKR Generation

Each KICKR has a few unique characteristics which make it easy to identify visually.

KICKR v1 (’14)

Carry handle is black and directly mounted to downsloping bar
Power plug is beneath that handle on the underside of the downsloping bar
No LED lights

KICKR v2 (’16)

Downsloping bar completely envelopes the rear axle assembly and has a straight plastic cap
Flywheel side of pulley is not recessed

KICKR v3 (’17)

Downsloping bar ends flush with the rear axle, has a welded top, with a slight bulge in the center where the axle travels through
Flywheel side of pulley is not recessed

KICKR v4 (’18)

Downsloping bar ends flush with the rear axle, has a welded top, with a slight bulge in the center where the axle travels through
Flywheel side of pulley is recessed

KICKR v5 (’20)

Includes an RJ11 (phone jack) Direct Connect port just above the power plug
Wider AXIS feet used for all contact points

KICKR v6 (’22)

WiFi status light instead of ANT+

SKU/Part # Identification

KICKR models can be identified by the Part# on the white sticker on the drive side of the flywheel plastics:

ModelSKU/Part #KICKR v6 (2022)WFBKTR122KICKR v5 (2020)WFBKTR120KICKR v4 (2018)WFBKTR118KICKR v3 (2017)WFBKTR117KICKR v2 (2016)WFBKTR116KICKR v1 (< 2016)WFBKTRNR11KICKR COREWFBKTR4

Hardware Differences Between KICKR Models

Model YearBelt TypeFlywheelAccuracyNotes
2014 (Gen 1)Timing12lb3%The only model with a strain gauge, a slanted handle, and no LED indicators.
2016 (Gen 2)Timing12lb2%
2017 (Gen 3)Timing12lb2%
2018 (Gen 4)V16lb2%First model to include built-in cadence and support multiple Bluetooth connections.
2020 (Gen 5)V16lb1%First model to include auto-calibration, an RJ11 port, and AXIS feet.
2022 (Gen 6)V16lb1%First model to include WiFi

Compatibility/Feel Differences Between KICKR Models

Model YearNoise LevelClimb compatibleThru Axle compatibilityResponsiveness
2014 (Gen 1)NoisyNo12x142 with adapter kitDecent
2016 (Gen 2)Quieter than previousNoSame as previousBetter than previous
2017 (Gen 3)Same as previousYes (Usually)12×142 and 12×148 Same as previous
2018 (Gen 4)Very quietYesSame as previousSame as previous
2020 (Gen 5)Same as previousYesSame as previousRace mode supported
2022 (Gen 6)Same as previousYesSame as previousSame as previous