Garmin Tacx Alpine User Manual

Getting Started

Before using the Tacx Alpine, please review the important safety and product information included in the product packaging.

The Tacx Alpine incline simulator is compatible with Tacx NEO 2T and Tacx NEO 3M trainers, provided the trainer's firmware is updated to the latest version.

Important: Read the instructions before attaching your bicycle to the Tacx Alpine.

Scan the QR code with your smartphone camera to access the Tacx Training app instructions.

Tip: The Tacx Training app offers device setup, videos, and firmware updates. It is recommended to keep your Tacx device firmware updated for optimal performance, privacy, security, and features.

For the best experience, use the Tacx Alpine while it is connected to power. For optimal results, use the Tacx Alpine on a hard floor or a short-pile carpet. Avoid soft surfaces and long-pile rugs.

Note: Bicycles with a wheelbase of 1,165 mm or more may not fit on a standard Tacx training mat.

For assistance and information, visit support.garmin.com.

Assembly Instructions

Thru-Axle Installation

The Tacx Alpine is compatible with bicycles using a 12 mm or 15 mm Thru-Axle. If your bicycle uses a quick-release skewer, refer to the Quick-Release Skewer Installation section.

Steps for Thru-Axle Installation:

1. Open the assembly kit A and select the correct end caps that match your axle.
2. Attach the rotating end caps to the Tacx Alpine trainer.
3. Remove the bicycle's front wheel and hold the frame.
4. Roll the Tacx Alpine onto the training stand and align the bicycle's front wheel holder with the rotating end caps.
5. Insert the axle and tighten it manually.
6. Tighten the axle according to the torque specification for the axle or in your bicycle's user manual.

Quick-Release Skewer Installation

Warning: Improperly tightening or closing the quick-release lever can cause injury or property damage.

1. Open the assembly kit A and select the QR rotating end caps and the quick-release skewer.
2. Attach the rotating end caps 1 to the Tacx Alpine trainer.
3. Install the quick-release rod and the spring collars on each side 2, followed by the cover 3.
4. Tighten the cover manually, leaving enough space for the bicycle's front wheel holder.
5. Remove the bicycle's front wheel and hold the frame.
6. Roll the Tacx Alpine onto the training stand and place the bicycle's front wheel holder onto the skewer.
7. Tighten the cover and close the quick-release lever.

Connecting Power and Calibrating the Tacx Alpine

Caution: Use only the included power cable. Do not attempt to use an external power supply or adapter, as this may cause personal injury or damage to the trainer.

Notice: Do not sit on the bicycle during calibration, as this may cause property damage.

The next time you connect the Tacx Alpine, the AUTO indicator light will flash slowly, indicating that calibration is required.

1. Connect the power cable 1 to the port 2.
2. Plug the power cable into a standard wall outlet. Ensure the power cable is long enough to move freely with the Tacx Alpine.
3. Align the markings on the Tacx Alpine with the markings 3 on the training stand.
4. Align the trainer, bicycle frame, handlebars, and Tacx Alpine.
5. Press and hold the AUTO button and the down arrow button simultaneously for 6 seconds.
6. When all three indicator lights flash, release the buttons to begin calibration. The indicator lights will flash slowly during calibration as the Tacx Alpine rises and returns to a balanced position. Calibration is complete when the indicator lights stop flashing.

Riding and Training Tips

Your first ride on the Tacx Alpine should be a short, manual training ride. This will help you get familiar with the controls and riding positions.

• If you have a Tacx NEO 3M trainer, disengage the motion plates.
• On the Tacx Alpine, press AUTO to turn off the indicator light and enter manual training mode.
• Begin pedaling slowly.
• Press the up or down arrow to adjust the front of the bicycle. Tip: You can reset the Tacx Alpine to a 0% incline by pressing the up and down arrow buttons simultaneously.
• Turn the handlebars left and right.

Tips for Riding and Training:

• For optimal use, operate the Tacx Alpine only when connected to power.
• Use the Tacx Training app to set your correct wheel base, trainer type, and other training preferences.
• Avoid sprinting with the motion plates engaged. You can sprint when the motion plates are locked.
• If using a Tacx NEO 2T trainer without motion plates, a slight positive incline offset may be felt. This can be adjusted in the device settings within the Tacx Training app.
• If you experience motion sickness while riding, try the following: Focus your vision on a single point in front of your bicycle. Watch a training video while riding. Drink plenty of water before and during your ride. Stop riding until you feel better and try again.

Pairing the Tacx Alpine with the Trainer and App

For optimal performance and training features, Garmin recommends pairing the Tacx Alpine with a compatible trainer and the Tacx Training app.

1. Connect the compatible Tacx trainer to a power source.
2. Pair the compatible Tacx trainer with the Tacx Training app.
3. Update the trainer if an update is available.
4. In the Tacx Training app, select Settings > Device Manager.
5. Wake the trainer and put it in pairing mode.
6. On the Tacx Alpine, press and hold AUTO for 3 seconds. After releasing the button, all indicator lights will flash rapidly, then the indicator lights will flash while the Tacx Alpine searches for the trainer and app. Once connected, the indicator lights will remain solid.
7. In the Tacx Training app, tap the Tacx Alpine to pair, and wait for the connected device to turn green.
8. On the Tacx Alpine, press AUTO so the indicator light is solid. Automatic mode indicates that the Tacx Alpine is automatically following the course's incline.
9. Select a course.
10. Start pedaling.

Indicator Lights and Buttons

Indicator Lights:

• 1. Training Mode Indicator: Solid light indicates automatic training mode (the Tacx Alpine automatically follows the course incline). Off light indicates manual training mode, requiring you to control the incline. Slow flashing light means the Tacx Alpine requires calibration.
• 2. Trainer Connection Indicator: Solid light indicates the Tacx Alpine is connected to the trainer. Flashing light indicates the Tacx Alpine is searching for the trainer.
• 3. Device Connection Indicator: Solid light indicates the Tacx Alpine is connected to the app. Flashing light indicates the Tacx Alpine is searching for the app.

Buttons:

• AUTO 4: Press to switch between automatic and manual training modes. Press and hold for 3 seconds to put the device in pairing mode. Hold for 10-15 seconds to perform a factory reset (if the Tacx Alpine is unresponsive).
• Up Arrow 5: Press to manually increase the incline.
• Down Arrow 6: Press to manually decrease the incline. Tip: To reset the Tacx Alpine to 0% incline, you can press the up and down arrow buttons simultaneously.

Troubleshooting

When should I calibrate the Tacx Alpine?

If the device has been stored for several months, or if you have installed new bicycle or trainer components, you should calibrate the Tacx Alpine. Before riding, check the AUTO indicator light. A slow flashing light indicates that calibration is needed. Also, check the Tacx Training app for any calibration messages.

Tacx Alpine is unresponsive

If the Tacx Alpine stops responding, you can reset the device to factory settings. Press and hold AUTO for 15 seconds. When all indicator lights flash rapidly, release the button. Wait for the device to reset. After a factory reset, you must calibrate the Tacx Alpine and pair it with your trainer and the Tacx Training app.

Why are all indicator lights flashing?

If all Tacx Alpine indicator lights flash slowly simultaneously, there may be a hardware malfunction. Stop riding, dismount your bicycle, and open the Tacx Training app for more details.

How do I mount my tablet?

Notice: The Tacx tablet mount (T2098) may interfere with the Tacx Alpine and cause product damage. If you have the Tacx tablet mount (T2098), move the mount away from all Tacx Alpine components and check the clearance. Use the Tacx tablet mount (T2092). Visit buy.garmin.com for compatible accessories.

What is my Thru-Axle size?

The size is usually printed or engraved on the axle itself. Common sizes include 12x100 mm, 15x100 mm, and 15x110 mm. To determine the diameter, you can insert the axle into the end caps. To determine the length, hold the fit gauge against the bicycle's fork.

Diagram showing Thru-Axle sizes:

12 mm

15 mm

100 mm

110 mm

15 mm

Device Information

Standby Mode

After 10 minutes of inactivity, the Tacx Alpine enters standby mode, and Bluetooth and connections are suspended. You can wake the device by pressing a button or turning the handlebars.

Device Care and Storage

Warning: Refer to the important safety and product information guide in the product packaging for warnings and important information.

• Disconnect the device from power when not in use.
• If your device includes motion plates, check the adjustment and lock the motion plates when the trainer is not in use.
• Wipe the device after each use.
• Clean the device before storing it.

Specifications

• Power Input: Use the included power cable. 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz.
• Standby Power Consumption: Less than 5.0 W. The device enters standby mode after 10 minutes of inactivity.
• Operating Temperature Range: -10° to 40°C (14° to 104°F).
• Storage Temperature Range: -20° to 60°C (-4° to 140°F).
• Wireless Frequency and Transmit Power: 2.4 GHz @ 8.32 dBm 4.2.
• Maximum Rider Weight: 120 kg (264 lbs).

Tacx Alpine Firmware Update

Before you can update the device firmware, you must pair your Tacx Alpine with the latest version of the Tacx Training app.

1. Connect the Tacx Alpine to a standard wall outlet.
2. Open the Tacx Training app on your phone or tablet. Tip: Check your phone or tablet's battery level.
3. Select Settings > Device Manager.
4. Select your Tacx Alpine.
5. Select Update > Update Firmware.
6. All indicator lights on the Tacx Alpine will light up sequentially clockwise during a firmware update. Wait for the firmware update to complete. Tip: Do not disconnect the device or switch between apps while the software is updating. This process may take several minutes.

Troubleshooting

When should I calibrate the Tacx Alpine?

If the device has been stored for several months, or if you have installed new bicycle or trainer components, you should calibrate the Tacx Alpine. Before riding, check the AUTO indicator light. A slow flashing light indicates that calibration is needed. Also, check the Tacx Training app for any calibration messages.

Tacx Alpine is unresponsive

If the Tacx Alpine stops responding, you can reset the device to factory settings. Press and hold AUTO for 15 seconds. When all indicator lights flash rapidly, release the button. Wait for the device to reset. After a factory reset, you must calibrate the Tacx Alpine and pair it with your trainer and the Tacx Training app.

Why are all indicator lights flashing?

If all Tacx Alpine indicator lights flash slowly simultaneously, there may be a hardware malfunction. Stop riding, dismount your bicycle, and open the Tacx Training app for more details.

How do I mount my tablet?

Notice: The Tacx tablet mount (T2098) may interfere with the Tacx Alpine and cause product damage. If you have the Tacx tablet mount (T2098), move the mount away from all Tacx Alpine components and check the clearance. Use the Tacx tablet mount (T2092). Visit buy.garmin.com for compatible accessories.

What is my Thru-Axle size?

The size is usually printed or engraved on the axle itself. Common sizes include 12x100 mm, 15x100 mm, and 15x110 mm. To determine the diameter, you can insert the axle into the end caps. To determine the length, hold the fit gauge against the bicycle's fork.

Diagram showing Thru-Axle sizes:

12 mm

15 mm

100 mm

110 mm

15 mm