Zwift Hub One £550

Designed with simplicity in mind, Rachel Sokal finds the Hub One trainer offers plenty of adaptability

SPEC

Power accuracy: +/- 2.5%

Max wattage: 1800 watts 

Max gradient simulation: 16%

Connectivity: Bluetooth FTMS and ANT+ FE-C

Flywheel weight: 4.7kg/10.3lb

Total weight: 15kg/33lb

Drivetrain compatibility: 8-12 speed bikes

Discontinued as part of a large round of cost-cutting at Zwift, the Hub One is still worth a look. We tested this model late last year, and the trainer is still available to buy via the Zwift site (while stocks last) while the single cog tech is also used on the Wahoo Kickr Core Zwift One trainer.

The single 14-tooth sprocket is compatible with any 8-12 speed drive train, and even single speed bikes. To attach your chain to the sprocket select a mid-range gear before mounting your bike to the trainer as you would any other. Your mech should then align with the single cog; if not it should take one or two shifts to get it lined up. I tried a range of drive trains on different bikes (9-12 speed, Shimano and SRAM, road and MTB mechs) and all were equally straightforward to set up.

If you do mistakenly use your shifters the noise of the chain against the protective plastic discs on the Hub sees you quickly shift back without any damage done. Once up and running the resistance of the One automatically adjusts to your gear ratio, giving the same range of resistance whatever gearing you have.