Saris introduced a powerful and affordable direct drive trainer today called the H3. They then complemented it with a dynamic platform called the MP1 and a functional table called the TD1.

Why all the commotion? Once you get into trainers and want to actually use it to improve your health and fitness, you'll find that you need a direct drive, a fan, a table for your beverage and screen.



The MP1 platform is a whole new animal, providing a moving, dynamic base that reacts to all your inputs, just like the real world. It is what's missing in trainers as all your body movement is forced into a static machine where only the pedals are moving. Does it work? We've yet to try it but there has been a groundswell of DIY efforts on the Mtbr forums as folks create similar platforms to address this issue.

"Riding a bike seems simple and intuitive, especially if you've been doing it for years," Saris President & COO, Jeff Frehner, said. "Yet trying to recreate something so simple indoors is actually incredibly complex. The various indoor training software companies have done a great job of making riding indoors more entertaining.

The summary of products introduced today all under the Saris brand (no longer under CycleOps) are:
TD1 trainer desk ($329.99 USD)
H3 direct-drive smart trainer ($999.99 USD).
MP1 ($1,199.99 USD)



H3 Direct Drive Trainer

Touting the same reliability and durability as its predecessors, the Saris H3 is the quietest direct-drive smart trainer to leave their doors.

Following the Saris direct-drive smart trainer legacy, the H3 features the same reliability and durability as its predecessors.

Cast and machined aluminum are mated with features such as power, speed, and cadence detection, as well as a precision-balanced flywheel - all built to handle 2000 watts and replicate a 20% climbing grade.
Tested to withstand heavy training, the H3's internal cooling system will keep the electromagnetic resistance system working - and accurate - long after your legs have given out.

GCN produced a great video showcasing this platform in action.

H3 SPECIFICATIONS

  • 59 decibels at 20 mph
  • +/- 2% power measurement accuracy
  • 2000 maximum power output at 20 mph
  • Simulates 20% climbing grade
  • 20 lb precision balanced flywheel
  • Integrated dual ANT+ FE-C and Bluetooth FTMS standards
  • Integrated cadence, speed and power data - no external sensors needed
  • Built-in front wheel block
  • Compatible with Shimano 8-11 speed cassettes. XD/XDR freehubs sold separately
  • Price: $999.99


Stage 6 of Giro Rosa Iccrea, a 12.1 km time trial from Chiuro to Teglio, Italy on July 10, 2019. Photo by Balint Hamvas/velofocus.com​

MP1 NFINITY Trainer Platform

When you think of riding a stationary bike, chances are "movement" doesn't come to mind. Sure, you might get out of the saddle, rock left and right to get through a gnarly bit of resistance - but the bike stays still and doesn't respond to your efforts.
The "stationary" part of indoor riding has long been necessary to safely ride a bicycle indoors. The bike locks into the trainer, the athlete to the bike, and the trainer are constructed to withstand - and not budge - with even the hardest efforts.
The result is a ride that's more uncomfortable than it would have been outdoors, and in the end, doesn't feel much like a "ride" at all.



The backside of the MP1 Infinity platform​

How the MP1 Works

Mechanical ingenuity combined with the physics of motion
Nfinity technology breaks down each interaction between rider and bicycle to create realistic movement indoors.

Mechanical ingenuity combined with the physics of motion yields a training experience that's immersive, comfortable and authentic.
Side-to-side movement isn't enough- multiple planes and axes of movement complete the equation by suspending the fore-aft motion on curved rails.

Centering forces are provided by gravity with 11 inches of total fore/aft travel.

Moving side-to-side is made possible by an intricate system of rollers and a peened leaf spring, freeing the entire system to pivot naturally up to 6 degrees per side with adjustable spring rates for different size riders and riding styles.



MP1 SPECIFICATIONS

  • Robust steel, aluminum and wood construction
  • Compatible with all major brands and models of trainers
  • Assembled in box
  • Built-in front wheel block for road and mtb
  • Packaged Weight: 80 lbs.
  • Price: $1199.99


TD1 Table

Every training room needs a control center, and the TD1 is more than equipped for the job. Featuring built-in power strip with 2 AC and 2 USB outlets, this indoor trainer desk was designed to keep everything you need charged, organized and close at hand.

The Saris TD1 is made of the same Baltic Birch and steel sourced from America's Midwest. An integrated power- strip keeps training necessities charged and close at hand, while the desk itself is adjustable for a wide range of training stations. And since each training station needs a trainer,



TD1 SPECIFICATIONS

  • Base: 13" Width 36" Depth
  • Desk Top: : 20" Width x 12" Depth
  • Adjustable Desk Height from Floor: 40" to 55"
  • Laminated birch table top supported by a steel frame, featuring stainless steel and corrosion resistant hardware
  • Cord Length: 6- foot AC cord
  • Built-in power strip with 2 AC and 2 USB outlets
  • Built-in cord retention for easy cable management and a clean look.
  • Price: $329.99