Garmin Tacx Neo 3m Review: Erg mode excellence

Garmin might have the most capable direct drive trainer on the market but is it worth the cost?

Neo 3M smart trainer with a bike mounted
(Image: © Josh Ross)

Cyclingnews Verdict

Although it might not seem extraordinary on paper, the Garmin Neo 3M is the most capable direct drive trainer on the market. The movement isn't new but it's still exceptionally good and the additional left/right movement is the cherry on top. You still get a powered flywheel plus there's now dual sided power measurement, two Bluetooth connections, compatibility with the Elite Rizer, a network adapter accessory, and the best power ramp up on the market. The only problem is that you’ll pay dearly for the whole experience.

Pros

  • +

    Powered Flywheel

  • +

    Integrated movement plates

  • +

    Included 11-speed cassette

  • +

    Excellent low to high power transition

  • +

    Dual Bluetooth radio

  • +

    Integrated carry handle

  • +

    Lockable motion plates

  • +

    Elite Rizer compatible

Cons

  • -

    Price

  • -

    No 12-speed cassette option at time of purchase

You can trust Cyclingnews Our experts spend countless hours testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

For a few years, there was a kind of status quo in smart trainers. Every major brand had an entry level product with slightly lower specs. Generally that meant a 16% max gradient, accuracy at +/- 2%, and somewhere around 1800 watts max resistance. It was decent for most people and you could save a bit of money.  If you decided to go for a more premium experience then you'd look at the next level and price point. These premium offerings felt about the same but looked nicer. They were also more accurate and could simulate a 25% max gradient. This year the whole system changed.  

Tech specs: Garmin Tacx Neo 3M

Price: £1,749.99 / $1,999.99 / €1,999

Unit weight: 52.0 lbs (23.6 kg)

Flywheel weight: 275.6 lbs / 125 kg virtual

Connectivity: ANT+ connectivity, dual BLUETOOTH wireless technology connection support, Wi-Fi/Ethernet accessory adapter

Accuracy: <1%

Max power: 2,200 watts 

Max grade simulation: 25%

Freehub compatibility: Shimano/SRAM 9 to 11 speed (compatible, 11-speed cassette included), Campagnolo (compatible, requires special cassette body), SRAM 12 speed/XDR (compatible, requires special cassette body), Shimano 12-speed Hyperglide+

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Testing scorecard and notes
Design and aestheticsIt loses a point for the loss of the blue but this is a smart design that does everything you’d want in a wheel off smart trainer. 9/10
ERG ModeExactly how you want ERG to feel. It holds tight to the requested power but rolls on smooth and allows you to catch up.10/10
Ride feelA powered flywheel and just the right side to side movement provides excellent ride feel. The integrated motion plates are also amazing though it’s quite easy to break that illusion depending on your riding style.9/10
Noise and stabilitySuper quiet and totally stable. 10/10
ValueI would argue that the ride experience is better than the competition however you are being asked to pay a lot for a small advantage. 6/10
OverallRow 5 - Cell 1 88%

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