Garmin Tacx Alpine User Manual

Getting Started

Important Safety and Product Information: Please refer to the separate manual included in the product box for important safety and product information.

The Tacx Alpine simulator is compatible with Tacx NEO 3M and Tacx NEO 2T trainers after updating the trainer firmware to the latest version.

• Before connecting your bicycle, read the Tacx Alpine trainer instructions.
• Scan the QR code with your phone's camera to follow the instructions for the Tacx Training app.

TIP: The Tacx Training app includes setup, videos, and software updates (Pairing Your Tacx Alpine to Your Trainer and App, page 12).

• Keep the device software up to date. Software updates improve device privacy, security, and functionality.
• For the best experience, use the Tacx Alpine only when it is connected.
• For best results, place the Tacx Alpine on a firm mat or a short-pile carpet. Do not use on a soft or long-pile carpet.

NOTE: Bicycles with a wheelbase of 1165 mm or more may not fit on the Tacx training mat.

For help and information (e.g., product manuals, FAQs, videos, and customer support), visit support.garmin.com.

Tacx Alpine Trainer Assembly Instructions

Assembly Kits

The Tacx Alpine includes two separate assembly kits, labeled A and B.

Installing Threaded End Caps on the Tacx NEO 2T Trainer

NOTICE: The Tacx Alpine is compatible with the Tacx NEO 2T trainer, but you must install new threaded end caps on both sides of the trainer. The old end caps and spacer (for disc brakes) are not compatible. Using old parts can cause damage.

• If your trainer is a Tacx NEO 3M, see the Tacx Alpine Trainer Installation section, page 4.
• To choose:
• If you have a quick-release axle, use a 5 mm Allen wrench to remove both end caps.
• If you have a thru-axle, use a 17 mm wrench to remove both end caps.

NOTE: Some wrenches may not fit, and you may need to remove the cassette.

• Open assembly kit B and take out the blue tool, spacer, and the Driveside 5-6Nm locking nut.
• Use the table to select the correct parts for your axle type.

• Use the blue tool on the non-drive side of the trainer to install the end cap support 1.

NOTE: If you have disc brakes, you must install the new spacer 2 to leave space between the trainer and the brake caliper.

• Use the blue tool on the drive side of the trainer to install the Driveside 5-6Nm locking nut 3.

You can tighten the locking nut by hand using the blue tool. If using a torque wrench, Garmin recommends a maximum torque of 6 N·m (4.4 lbf·ft) for the locking nut.

• Install both threaded end caps 4.
• Install your bicycle onto the Tacx NEO 2T trainer according to the user manual.
• Sit on the trainer and pedal a few times.

TIP: The new threaded end caps may remain on the Tacx NEO 2T trainer even when riding without the Tacx Alpine.

Tacx Alpine Trainer Installation

Placing the Rolling Axle

Before placing the rolling axle 1, the bicycle must be mounted on a compatible trainer, such as the Tacx NEO 3M 2.

1. Remove the front wheel block.
2. Place the rolling axle under the front wheel.
3. Position the Tacx Alpine close to the front of the bicycle so you can roll it onto the rolling axle.
4. Align the rolling axle with the bicycle's front hub 3 at the alignment markings 4, ideally near the center.
5. If using a training mat, adjust the bicycle and trainer so the front of the rolling axle aligns with the front of the training mat (optional).

Attaching the Wheel with a Quick-Release Axle

The Tacx Alpine is compatible with wheels that have a 12 or 15 mm thru-axle (What is my quick-release axle size?, page 15). If you have a quick-release axle, refer to the Attaching the Wheel with a Quick-Release Axle section, page 6.

1. Open assembly kit A and select the correct thru-axle caps and quick-release axle.

2. Attach the thru-axle caps to the Tacx Alpine.
3. Remove the front wheel from the bicycle and hold the frame.
4. Roll the Tacx Alpine onto the rolling axle and align the bicycle fork with the thru-axle caps.
5. Insert the axle and hand-tighten it.
6. Tighten the axle firmly until the torque indicator on the axle or in your bike's manual is reached.

Attaching the Wheel with a Thru-Axle

WARNING: A loose or improperly closed quick-release lever can cause injury or property damage.

1. Open assembly kit A and select the thru-axle caps and quick-release axle.
2. Attach the thru-axle caps 1 to the Tacx Alpine.
3. Install the quick-release skewer, the conical springs 2 on each side, and the cap 3.
4. Hand-tighten the cap, leaving enough space in the fork for the wheel.
5. Remove the front wheel from the bicycle and hold the frame.
6. Roll the Tacx Alpine onto the rolling axle and position the fork onto the skewer.
7. Tighten the cap and close the quick-release lever.

Connecting the Power Cable and Calibrating the Tacx Alpine

CAUTION: The power cable is in the product box. Do not attempt to use a third-party power cable or adapter with the Tacx Alpine, as this may result in personal injury or damage to the training device.

NOTICE: Do not attempt to sit on the bicycle during calibration, as this may result in property damage.

When you turn on the Tacx Alpine for the first time, the AUTO indicator light will flash slowly, and calibration is required.

1. Connect the power cable 1 to port 2.
2. Connect the power cable to a standard wall outlet. The power cable should be long enough to allow the Tacx Alpine to move freely with the device.
3. Align the Tacx Alpine with the rolling axle 3.
4. Align the trainer, bicycle frame, handlebars, and Tacx Alpine.
5. Press and hold the AUTO button for 6 seconds.
6. If all three LED lights flash, release the buttons to start calibration. During calibration, the Tacx Alpine will move up and down to level. When the indicator lights stop flashing, calibration is complete.

Checking the Clearance

NOTICE: Failure to follow these instructions may result in property damage.

• Ensure no objects are obstructing the power cables.
• Route the power cables so they do not interfere with the trainer or Tacx Alpine during use.
• Check the clearance between the chain guard and the fork at all heights and when turning the handlebars.

Sit on the bike and ride in manual mode (Riding, page 12). The AUTO indicator light is off. Ensure there is adequate ceiling clearance while riding. If necessary, adjust the slope limits in the Tacx Training app.

Checking Chain Guard Clearance

Before checking clearance, you must set the correct wheelbase for the bike and the trainer in the Tacx Training app.

TIP: You can use the measuring tape included with the assembly kit, marked with symbol A.

1. Press and hold the button simultaneously to set the Tacx Alpine to 0% slope.
2. Observe the smallest clearance between the trainer and the chain guard.
3. Open assembly kit with symbol A and select the compatibility indicator 1. The indicator should fit between the trainer and the chain guard.

Press and check the clearance each time you press the button.

You can also check the slope manually using the device settings in the Tacx Training app.

5. Repeat step 4 and observe the clearance between the trainer and the chain guard:
• If the indicator does not fit between the two parts, proceed to step 6.
• If the slope between the two parts is not 0% to -10%, proceed to the next clearance task (Checking Fork Clearance, page 9).
6. Press and observe the slope.

TIP: The slope is displayed in the Tacx Training app.

7. Open the Tacx Alpine settings in the Tacx Training app.
8. Select Slope > Grade Range.
9. Use the slider to set the minimum slope.

Checking Fork Clearance

You will need the compatibility indicator from assembly kit A.

1. Press the button until the Tacx Alpine is in its lowest position.

NOTE: The minimum slope is -10% or the custom value (Checking Chain Guard Clearance, page 8).

2. Turn the handlebars as far as possible (in both directions and on both sides) and insert the indicator between the fork and the Tacx Alpine.

If the indicator fits between both parts in both directions, no further action is needed. If the clearance check fails, proceed to step 3.

3. Open assembly kit A and open the protective strips.

TIP: Garmin recommends cleaning the fork before installing the protective strips.

4. Place the protective strips on the fork where the fork is closest to the Tacx Alpine.

Training

Tacx Training App

You can download the Tacx Training app to your compatible phone, tablet, or computer.

• Ride exciting routes without leaving home.
• Create your own routes, workouts, and more.
• Control your training, adjust settings, and identify problems.
• Synchronize your indoor training data with your Garmin Connect™ account.
• Update your device software (Updating Tacx Alpine Software, page 13).

Status Indicator Lights and Buttons

The automatic training mode (indicator light on) means the Tacx Alpine will automatically follow the slope of the route.

The manual training mode (indicator light off) means you must use the buttons to control the slope.

Slowly flashing LED lights indicate that the Tacx Alpine needs calibration (When Should I Calibrate My Tacx Alpine?, page 14).

For more information, see the Troubleshooting section, page 13.

Riding

Your first ride on the Tacx Alpine should be a short, manual training session. Familiarize yourself with the controls and riding position.

1. If your trainer is a Tacx NEO 3M, unlock the rolling axle.

TIP: Turn each button in the direction of the symbol until you hear a click.

2. Press the AUTO button on the Tacx Alpine to turn off the indicator light and enable manual training mode.
3. Begin pedaling slowly.
4. Press the or buttons to raise or lower the front of the bicycle.

TIP: You can press and hold both buttons simultaneously to return the Tacx Alpine to 0% slope.

5. Turn the handlebars left and right.

Riding and Training Tips

• For the best experience, use the Tacx Alpine only when it is connected.
• Use the Tacx Training app to set the correct wheelbase, trainer type, and other training preferences.

TIP: You can use the measuring tape included with the assembly kit, marked with symbol A.

• Avoid sprinting when the rolling axle is unlocked. You can sprint when the rolling axle is locked.
• If you are using the Tacx NEO 2T trainer without the rolling axle, you may notice a slight positive slope. You can adjust this in the Tacx Training app device settings.
• If you feel nauseous during a ride, try the following suggestions:
• Focus your gaze on a point in front of the bike.
• Watch training videos while riding.
• Drink plenty of water before and during your ride.
• Stop riding and try again when you feel better.

Pairing Your Tacx Alpine to Your Trainer and App

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

1. Connect your compatible Tacx trainer to external power.
2. Pair your compatible Tacx trainer to the Tacx Training app.
3. Update your trainer's firmware if an update is available.
4. In the Tacx Training app, select Settings > Device Manager.
5. Wake your trainer and put it in pairing mode.
6. On the Tacx Alpine, press and hold the AUTO button for 3 seconds.

When you release the button, all indicator lights will flash quickly, and the and indicator lights will flash until the Tacx Alpine finds the trainer and app. The indicator lights will remain solid when connected.

7. In the Tacx Training app, tap Tacx Alpine and wait for the connected device to turn green.
8. Press the AUTO button on the Tacx Alpine so the indicator light is solid. The automatic training mode means the Tacx Alpine will automatically follow the slope of the route.
9. Select a route.
10. Start pedaling.

Device Information

Standby Mode

After 10 minutes of inactivity, the Tacx Alpine enters standby mode, and Bluetooth® connections are suspended. To wake the device, press a button or turn the handlebars (Status Indicator Lights and Buttons, page 11).

Device Care and Storage

WARNING: Refer to the Important Safety and Product Information manual included in the product box for product warnings and other important information.

• When the device is not in use, disconnect it from the power source.
• If your trainer has a rolling axle, check alignment and lock the rolling axle when not in use.
• Wipe the device clean after each use.
• Clean the device before storing it.

Technical Specifications

Troubleshooting

Updating Tacx Alpine Software

Before you can update the device software, you must pair the Tacx Alpine with the latest version of the Tacx Training app (Pairing Your Tacx Alpine to Your Trainer and App, page 12).

1. Connect the power cable to a standard wall outlet (Connecting the Power Cable and Calibrating the Tacx Alpine, page 7).
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 Tacx Alpine.
5. Select Firmware Update > Update.

During the software update, all LED lights on the Tacx Alpine will flash clockwise. Wait for the software update to complete. TIP: Do not unplug the device or switch apps during the software update. This may take a few minutes.

When Should I Calibrate My Tacx Alpine?

If the device has been in storage for several months, or if you install a new bike or trainer, you should calibrate the Tacx Alpine (Connecting the Power Cable and Calibrating the Tacx Alpine, page 7).

• Before riding, perform the following:
• Check the Tacx Alpine AUTO indicator light. A slowly flashing indicator light means the device needs calibration.
• Check for calibration notifications in the Tacx Training app.

Tacx Alpine Not Responding

If the Tacx Alpine stops responding, you can reset the device to factory settings.

1. Press and hold the AUTO button for 15 seconds.
2. Release the button when all LED lights flash quickly.
3. Wait for the device to reset. All LED lights will glow counterclockwise during the factory reset.

After resetting to factory settings, you must calibrate the Tacx Alpine (Connecting the Power Cable and Calibrating the Tacx Alpine, page 7). You must also pair the Tacx Alpine to a compatible trainer and the Tacx Training app (Pairing Your Tacx Alpine to Your Trainer and App, page 12).

Why Are All LED Lights Flashing?

If all Tacx Alpine LED lights flash slowly at the same time, there is a hardware error.

1. Stop riding and get off the bike.
2. For details, open the Tacx Training app.

How to Mount a Tablet

NOTICE: The Tacx tablet mount (T2098) may cause interference with the Tacx Alpine and potential product damage.

• If you have the Tacx tablet mount (T2098), move the mount away from the Tacx Alpine components and check the clearance.
• Use the Tacx bracket for tablets (T2092).
• To purchase compatible accessories, visit buy.garmin.com.

What is my quick-release axle size?

Most axle sizes are printed or engraved on the axle itself. The most common sizes are 12 x 100 mm, 15 x 100 mm, and 15 x 110 mm. You can insert the axle end caps to determine the diameter. You can hold the compatibility indicator between the fork and the axle to determine the length.

12 mm

15 mm

100 mm

110 mm

15 mm