Tacx NEO Bike Plus User Manual

Area and Clearance

Ensure adequate space for the Tacx NEO Bike Plus. The trainer requires a minimum of 60 cm (24 inches) of clearance on all sides. The footprint includes the fan. Dimensions are approximately 130-145 cm (51-57 in.) in length and 109-137 cm (43-54 in.) in height, with a front clearance of 75 cm (29.5 in.) and side clearance of 60 cm (24 in.).

Diagram showing the required clearance around the Tacx NEO Bike Plus trainer. Dimensions are indicated: 75 cm (29.5 in.) at the front, 60 cm (24 in.) on the sides, 130-145 cm (51-57 in.) total length, and 109-137 cm (43-54 in.) total height.

Cycling Posture

Achieve an optimal cycling posture. Adjustments may be needed based on individual body types. The pedals and tablet are not included and can affect posture. Aim for a slight bend in the elbows when reaching the shifters/brakes, and a slight bend in the knees at the bottom of the pedal stroke. Recommended angles are approximately 150°-155° for leg extension and 90° for the upper body.

Diagram illustrating proper cycling posture. Shows angles for leg extension (150°-155°) and upper body (90°), and the recommended distance between the saddle and handlebars (4-10 cm or 1.6-3.9 in.).

Trainer Fit Adjustment

The trainer's fit can be adjusted for height and width. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely. Handlebar height can be adjusted from 65-92 cm (25.6-36.2 in.), width from 40-85 cm (15.7-33.5 in.), and handlebar stem height from 55-82 cm (21.7-32.3 in.). The handlebar width adjustment range is 34-56 cm (14.4-22 in.). Remove the tablet before adjusting height or width. Saddle height and handlebar width may need re-checking if the saddle is moved significantly. Do not exceed maximum adjustment ranges. Ensure handlebars are parallel to the frame after tightening.

Diagram showing the adjustable dimensions of the Tacx NEO Bike Plus trainer: Handlebar height 65-92 cm (25.6-36.2 in.), handlebar width 40-85 cm (15.7-33.5 in.), handlebar stem height 55-82 cm (21.7-32.3 in.), and handlebar width adjustment range 34-56 cm (14.4-22 in.).

Assembly Sequence

The assembly kit includes all necessary parts and tools. Two people are recommended for assembly. Key components and their corresponding sections are:

• A: Legs (Attach Legs to Trainer, page 6)
• B: Pedals (Install Pedals, page 8)
• C: Bottle Cage (Attach Bottle Cage, page 9)
• D: Saddle (Install Saddle, page 9)
• E: Handlebars and Display (Install Handlebars, page 11)
• F: Fan and Tablet Mount (Install Fan and Tablet Mount, page 12)
• G: Tablet (Attach Tablet to Trainer, page 14)
• H: Power Cable (Connect Power Cable, page 15)

Refer to Device Information (page 20) for additional customization tips.

Diagram showing the assembly sequence with labeled components A through H, corresponding to specific installation steps. Also shows the 'Assembly Kit' box.

Attach Legs to Trainer

Requires the assembly kit. At least two people are needed. Place the trainer on the floor and attach the front legs using M10 x 90mm bolts (②), M10 x 130mm bolts (③), and 10mm washers (④) with an 8mm hex key. Attach the rear legs using M10 x 65mm bolts (⑥), 10mm washers (⑦), and an 8mm hex key. Use the knobs (⑧) on the front legs to level the trainer.

Diagrams illustrating the attachment of the trainer legs. Step 1 shows placing the trainer and attaching the front leg with bolts (①, ②, ③, ④). Step 5 shows attaching the rear leg with bolts (⑥, ⑦) and using knobs (⑧) to level the trainer.

Install Pedals

Pedals are not included. Refer to the pedal manufacturer's instructions. Apply grease to the pedal spindle threads. Insert spindles into the crank arms. The trainer supports five crank length options (165, 167.5, 170, 172.5, 175 mm). Ensure you use the same crank length for both pedals. Tighten pedals according to instructions. Note: The left pedal spindle has a reverse (left-hand) thread.

Diagrams for pedal installation, showing the five crank length options: 165, 167.5, 170, 172.5, and 175 mm, with corresponding measurements.

Attach Bottle Cage

A standard bottle cage can be attached to the trainer. Screws and washers are pre-installed on the frame. Use the provided screws (①) and a 4mm hex key to attach the bottle cage (②).

Diagram for attaching the bottle cage (C) using screws (①) and a 4mm hex key (②).

Install Saddle

Refer to Cycling Posture (page 3) and Trainer Fit Adjustment (page 4) before installing the saddle. Open the assembly kit. Remove the locking bolt using a 6mm hex key. Slide the saddle (③) onto the saddle rail (②). Secure the saddle position using the M12 x 25 handlebar bolt (④). The maximum adjustment range is 15 cm. Remove the locking bolt from the seat post using an 8mm hex key. Adjust saddle height and secure with the M16 x 22 handlebar bolt (⑤). The maximum saddle height is 26 cm. Adjust saddle angle using the angle bolt (⑥) with a 5mm hex key if needed.

Diagrams for saddle installation. Step 3 shows placing the saddle (③) onto the saddle rail (②). Step 5 shows securing the saddle with handlebar bolt (④). Step 6 shows removing a bolt from the seat post with an 8mm hex key. Step 7 shows adjusting saddle height and securing with bolt (⑤). Step 8 shows adjusting the saddle angle with bolt (⑥).

Install Handlebars

Refer to Cycling Posture (page 3) and Trainer Fit Adjustment (page 4). Open the assembly kit. Remove the locking bolt using a 6mm hex key. Slide the cover (①) onto the handlebar rail (②). Slide the handlebars onto the handlebar rail. Adjust handlebar width using the M12 x 25 handlebar bolt (③), with a maximum adjustment of 15 cm. Remove the locking bolt from the handlebar stem using an 8mm hex key. Adjust handlebar height and secure with the M16 x 22 handlebar bolt (④), with a maximum height of 26 cm. Adjust handlebar angle as needed. Remove the handlebar cover (⑤) using a Torx 20 driver. Loosen four screws with a 5mm hex key. Adjust handlebar angle. Tighten the four screws. Replace and secure the handlebar cover.

Diagrams for handlebar installation. Step 3 shows placing the cover (①) on the handlebar rail (②). Step 4 shows sliding the handlebars onto the rail. Step 5 shows securing the handlebars with bolt (③). Step 6 shows removing a bolt from the stem with an 8mm hex key. Step 7 shows adjusting handlebar height and securing with bolt (④). Step 9 shows removing handlebar cover (⑤).

Install Fan and Tablet Mount

The fan is located between the fans (Attach Tablet to Trainer, page 14). You can choose to install only the tablet mount (Install Tablet Mount, page 21). Align the fan (①) with the back of the display. Use M4 x 10 bolts (②) and a Torx 20 wrench to install the fan. Connect the display cable (③) and fan cable (④) to ports (⑤). Adjust fan angle using knob (⑥). Place the rubber mat (⑦) on the trainer.

Diagrams for installing the fan and tablet mount. Step 1 shows aligning the fan (①) with the display. Step 2 shows installing the fan with bolts (②). Step 3 shows connecting display cable (③) and fan cable (④) to ports (⑤). Step 4 shows adjusting fan angle with knob (⑥). Step 5 shows placing the rubber mat (⑦).

Attach Tablet to Trainer

Secure your tablet before your first ride. Garmin is not liable for tablet damage due to improper mounting. Do not adjust handlebar height or width while the tablet is attached. The clips fit most standard tablets. If your tablet has a thick case or folio, remove it before attaching. If you choose not to install the fan, a separate tablet mount is included (Install Tablet Mount, page 21). Connect the rubber strap (①) to the clip (②). Connect the rubber strap to the back of the mount (③). Mount the tablet onto the trainer and secure with clips. If needed, connect the tablet cable to the USB port (④). The USB port labeled 12.5W (⑤) is for high-power charging; the 2.5W port may not work with all devices.

Diagrams for attaching the tablet. Step 1 shows connecting the rubber strap (①) to the clip (②). Step 2 shows connecting the strap to the mount (③). Step 3 shows mounting the tablet and securing it. Step 4 shows connecting the tablet cable to the USB port (④).

Connect Power Cable

The power cable and adapter are in the assembly kit. Do not use third-party power cables or adapters. The Tacx NEO Bike Plus trainer can be used without external power, but some features (like downhill assist and USB charging) require it. Connect the power cable (①) to the port (②). Plug the power cable into a standard wall outlet. Spin the crank; the display and fan will turn on. The floor LED will be blue. Always disconnect the power cable after use and store it in a dry place. Always turn off the device and unplug the power cord after use to minimize the risk of damage.

Diagram for connecting the power cable (H). Step 1 shows plugging the power cable (①) into the port (②). The diagram also shows the two-part power cable and adapter.

Data Display

The display turns on when you start pedaling. Data is displayed differently when connected to the Tacx Training app, third-party apps, or optional wireless sensors. The display shows:

• ANT+® or Bluetooth® connection status (Optional Sensor Pairing, page 25).
• Current speed in km/h or mi/h.
• Current heart rate in bpm (requires a connected heart rate monitor).
• Current front gear (default: left shifter).
• Current rear gear (default: right shifter).
• Error messages or available trainer software updates. Connect to the Tacx Training app for more information.
• Current power output in Watts (W).
• Current cadence in rpm.
• Manual training mode (Training Mode, page 18) and additional data.

Diagram of the trainer's display screen showing various data fields: 1. ANT+/Bluetooth status, 2. Speed (km/h or mi/h), 3. Heart Rate (bpm), 4. Front Gear, 5. Rear Gear, 6. Error/Update messages, 7. Power (W), 8. Cadence (rpm), 9. Manual Training Mode/Additional Data.

Cycling Workout

Your first ride on the Tacx NEO Bike Plus should be a simple manual training ride to learn basic functions. Start pedaling. The display and fan turn on; the floor LED is blue (Floor LED, page 18). Use the shifters to change gears: press to shift up/down for front gears (①, ②) and rear gears (③, ④). Shifter functions can be customized to mimic Campagnolo®, Shimano®, or SRAM® shifters (Customize Trainer Settings in the App, page 19). Press and hold both control buttons (⑤, ⑥) to select Manual Training Mode (Training Mode, page 18). Press one of the buttons to select a mode. The active mode icon will flash for one second.

Diagrams showing shifter operation. Buttons (1, 2) for front gears and (3, 4) for rear gears. Buttons (5, 6) for selecting training modes.

Tacx Training App

The Tacx Training app can be downloaded to your smartphone, tablet, or computer. It allows for enjoyable virtual rides, creation of custom courses and training environments, management of training, customization of settings, and diagnostics. Sync your Garmin Connect™ account and indoor training data. Update device software (Trainer Software Update, page 23). To use the trainer's full features, pair it with the Tacx Training app. Connect the trainer to a wall outlet for features like downhill assist and USB charging. Open the Tacx Training app on your phone or tablet. Press and hold both control buttons on the trainer for 5 seconds (Cycling Workout, page 17). Release the buttons when the flashing '*' appears on the display. The trainer enters secure pairing mode for 5 minutes or until pairing is complete. Press any button to cancel. Select "Connect Trainer" in the Tacx Training app and follow the on-screen instructions. Customize trainer settings in the app before starting workouts or courses (Customize Trainer Settings in the App, page 19). Select a workout or course. Start pedaling. The display and fan turn on; the floor LED is blue (Floor LED, page 18). Follow the on-screen instructions.

Diagrams illustrating the process of pairing the trainer with the Tacx Training app.

Specifications

Device Care and Storage

To prevent sweat and moisture damage, follow these tips: Install the sweat cover (Install Sweat Cover, page 22). Always use the sweat cover to protect trainer components. Do not expose power cables or adapters to sweat or moisture. After each use, disconnect the power cable and store it in a dry place. Wipe the aluminum disc on the right side of the trainer with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly. Clean saddle, handlebars, and pedals with a cloth and mild detergent. Clean and dry the trainer thoroughly before storage. Use the small wheels on the rear of the Tacx NEO Bike Plus trainer to move it. Ensure the trainer is level after moving. Check and tighten all bolts, handlebars, and screws before use. Inspect power cables and adapters for damage before each use. For accessories and replacement parts, visit buy.garmin.com or contact your Garmin dealer. If storing for several months, keep the trainer in a cool, dry place with typical household temperatures (Specifications, page 20).

Diagrams for installing the tablet mount. Step 1 shows aligning the mount (①) with the display. Step 2 shows installing the mount with bolts (②). Step 3 shows connecting the display cable (③) to port (④).

Trainer Software Update

Before updating, pair the trainer with the latest version of the Tacx Training app (Using the Tacx Training App, page 19). Connect the power cable. Ensure the display cable is connected. Open the Tacx Training app, select the trainer, and choose Firmware Update > Update. Wait for the firmware update to complete. This may take several minutes.

Tacx NEO Bike Plus Trainer Does Not Respond

If the trainer does not respond, you can reset it to factory settings. Press and hold both control buttons for 10 seconds until icons flash. Press both control buttons again to confirm. Press any other button to cancel the factory reset. Wait for the device to reset. After a factory reset, you must pair the Tacx NEO Bike Plus with the Tacx Training app.

Proper Bike Fit Tips

Bike fitting is personal and may require trial and error. To help customize your fit and trainer settings, consider these tips: Remove the tablet before adjusting handlebar height, width, or angle. To adjust saddle height, measure your road bike or stand next to the bike and set the saddle height to your hip bone. Select the appropriate crank length for the trainer, matching your road bike's crank length. Manufacturers often print the length on the inside of the crank. Determine crank length using height or inseam (Crank Length Options, page 24). Check crank settings in the Tacx Training app (Customize Trainer Settings in the App, page 19). Adjust handlebar height, width, or angle. Check how it feels when riding. If multiple riders use the trainer, record each rider's preferred settings. Consult a professional bike fitter for further assistance.

Crank Length Options

Various resources are available online, including crank length calculators. Consult a professional bike fitter if you have questions. Options include 165mm, 167.5mm, 170mm, 172.5mm, and 175mm, with corresponding height and inseam measurements.

Table listing crank length options with approximate height and inseam measurements.

Handlebars and Screw Tightening

To prevent injury and trainer damage, always tighten all handlebar bolts and locking screws before each use. Check bike fit and select options. Tighten handlebar bolts by hand. Tighten locking screws with a 6mm or 8mm hex key. Align handlebars with the bike frame or rail. The handlebars have a spring mechanism to ensure they fit straight without protruding or obstructing. Ensure handlebars click into place.

Diagrams illustrating tightening handlebar bolts and connecting ANT+/Bluetooth sensors.

Can I Pair ANT+ or Bluetooth Sensors Using Open Connection?

The trainer supports open connections for ANT+ or Bluetooth sensors. In the Tacx Training app, select Connection Settings. For Bluetooth sensors, turn off Secure Bluetooth Connection. For ANT+ sensors, enable ANT+ FE-C (Smart Trainer Control) or ANT+ Power sensors. Position sensors within 3m (10 ft) of the trainer. Note: Keep sensors at least 10m (33 ft) away from other sensors during pairing. Follow pairing instructions for compatible sensors and the trainer. The ANT+ or Bluetooth connection icon will flash three times when the trainer wakes up (Data Display, page 16). The connection type remains open until changed in Tacx Training app settings.

Optional Sensor Pairing

The trainer can be used with wireless sensors like heart rate monitors. Bluetooth sensors must be paired directly with the Tacx Training app using a secure connection. ANT+ sensors require changing device settings in the Tacx Training app. For connection types, visit garmin.com/hrm_connection_types. Position the sensor within 3m (10 ft) of the trainer. Note: Keep sensors at least 10m (33 ft) away from other sensors during pairing. Open the Tacx Training app. The sensor will appear in the connection list, and sensor data will appear in the trainer and app data fields.