The Elite Qubo HydroMag Trainer is one of Elite’s newest additions to the trainer market. This trainer unites Elite’s hydromag concept of combining magnetic and fluid technology with Elite’s new Qubo frame. What does this give us? Well, for starters it gives a smooth ride and a rather large adjustment range.
Features
Although the hydromag concept is not new to Elite, what is new is the Qubo frame. The frame itself is a u-shape and is a mix of steel and synthetic materials to give maximum stability. It just feels solid and so far it has coped with my rigorous tests so I am happy with it.
Setup is easy as the Elite Qubo HydroMag Trainer comes with a quick clamping system so fixing the rear tire is very straightforward. As you would expect, quick release skewers are included in the package. The roller pressure is also automatically adjusted by the rider’s weight adding to the overall reality of the experience. The trainer has a broad tire fit and will fit wheels ranging from 20 to 29 inches.
The Elite Qubo HydroMag Trainer has five different resistance levels that are controlled by a handlebar mounted dial. The trainer switches smoothly between each level and the resistance reaches a whopping 1200 watts.
Strangely, this trainer is currently being sold by many online retailers as a digital trainer which is very misleading as this trainer is not digital at all. It does not come with any form of computer or console, despite these features being listed by retailers as included in the box. I decided to get in touch with Elite about this so that I could clarify what was going on because if it was digital, I did not receive the console with my trainer. This is what Marta Simioni (a Customer Services Rep) had to say:
The QUBO HYDROMAG is not DIGITAL.
…the last year models SUPERCRONO HYDROMAG and CRONO HYDROMAG were available in the DIGITAL version with the digital console included.
That clarifies it then, the Qubo HydroMag Trainer is not digital and does not come with a console or computer to measure your performance.
The elastogel roller is 45mm in diameter and is actually bigger than the roller found on the Qubo Digital. The increased roller size is good thinking on Elite’s part as it effectively reduces tire wear will keeping the noise levels and vibrations down to a minimum.
Usability
Although there are only five levels of adjustment, I found the resistance really good. Level 5 was really hard pedalling but I guess with 1200 watts of power, it is to be expected. Being a partial fluid trainer, the ride quality is very smooth and startlingly quiet which is great. You easily be able to use this in front of the telly and still hear what’s going on.
When it comes to your hill climbs and sprinting sessions, the trainer copes really well and in fact, because there is some flex in the frame, it feels pretty realistic. The frame actually moves with you as you pedal and mimics the natural reaction of your bike if you were on the road.
What I like about the Elite Qubo HydroMag Trainer is that it folds down to a neat package so storage is no problem – just whack it in the cupboard or under your bed.
The Verdict?
All in all, this is a great value for money trainer. The Qubo frame offers a stable base while the resistance will have you sweating. The best part is that this trainer is super quiet and very smooth which gets a big thumbs up from me.
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