V1 or V2 Wahoo Kickr
 

I'm just a fun old rider. I want a kickr though. Would the V1 or V2 be fine with Zwift? I understand that the V5 is quieter and is within 1 percent but its also $1500. I can get a V1 for $400

Thoughts?

Thx in advance

I think the biggest issue was a squealing belt. If your don't mind a loud belt then gfi.

I purchased a Kickr Core in 2019. Eventually it developed a squealing belt and it was replaced under warranty. Was 20% off and I only paid $640 for mine. (Or $720. Can't remember if the MSRP was $800 or $900)

Yes. V1 or V2 will be fine. V5 is much, much quieter than V1 or V2 though. I think you can also hardwire your internet connection with V5, which is important for some.

hard wire it directly to the trainer?

I believe he meant exactly that. But it is a separate buy and not cheap at all. Check out this review. They say it doesn't work with Zwift yet, though it works with many other platforms. I believe you will pass on this, I know I would
Review

Yeah, I don't Zwift, so hardwiring the trainer vs. running of WiFi isn't an issue for me.

But we do have a V1, V2 and V5, and it really is amazing how much quieter the V5 is than V2, which is so much quieter than V1.

Split the difference and get Kickr core?

ive not done much research on those. Might have to

The Kickr Core and Kickr don't have any meaningful differences that I'm aware of. Once upon a time the Core didn't have a cadence sensor but that was added in firmware. So that tells me it was an intentional crippling of features.

V5 has an optional cable to connect to your computer, not to the Internet. It's only useful if you get dropouts from Bluetooth or Ant+. Other than that and the autocalibration, no difference from V4. The Core is less powerful (not noticeable to most) and lacks the carry handle and 11sp cassette.

The older Kickrs, besides being louder, are also not Kickr Climb compatible I believe, and may have more compatibility issues with certain frames, but that's something specific that you'd have to check with any trainer.

Out of warranty used trainers also are pretty risky if you need service on them. I've read of people not being able to source parts from Wahoo.

Meaningful or not there are differences. Kickr does have a heavier fly wheel. That allows for more top end watts. Although for mere mortals it's hard to top out even on kickr core. Also leg design is different. If one moves the trainer a lot the Kickr legs are easier to fold, and it has a handle to carry it around. I have kickr core that I never move, but if I had to do it on regular bases that would get old fast. It's awkward to carry around, and couple times I folded legs back in I almost pinched my fingers.