Elite Sterzo Smart intelligent headset mount for indoor trainers
The Elite Sterzo Smart EL0180601 is a smart front wheel stand designed to make indoor cycling sessions more realistic and immersive. Placed beneath the front wheel, it allows the cyclist to turn the handlebars and transmit steering movements to Zwift via Bluetooth.
Unlike a standard fixed front wheel mount, the Sterzo Smart allows the wheel to pivot up to 34° in either direction. Handlebar movements are thus detected and transmitted to the compatible app, allowing you, for example, to control your avatar’s trajectory, change lanes, overtake other cyclists or take advantage of the slipstream in compatible virtual environments.
The Sterzo Smart is wireless and is powered by the included AAA batteries. Elite claims a battery life of over 500 hours and an angular resolution of 0.1°, enabling precise detection of steering movements.
Key features of the Elite Sterzo Smart
- Smart front wheel mount for indoor trainers.
- Elite product code: EL0180601 / 0180601.
- Steering movements transmitted via Bluetooth.
- Compatible with Zwift.
- Up to 34° of rotation on either side.
- Angular resolution of 0.1° for precise detection.
- Compatible with tyres up to 56 mm wide.
- Automatic return to centre position thanks to the built-in spring.
- Wireless power supply via AAA batteries.
- Claimed battery life of over 500 hours.
- Base fitted with non-slip rubber feet.
- Reinforced design to remain stable during intense training sessions
What is the Sterzo Smart Elite e used for?
The Sterzo Smart replaces the traditional front wheel mount with a platform that allows the bike to pivot naturally during training.
When the cyclist turns the handlebars, the Sterzo Smart measures the angle of rotation and transmits this information to Zwift. The movement of the handlebars can then be used to steer the on-screen avatar.
This feature adds an extra dimension to indoor training: you can choose your own route, move around the virtual road and overtake other cyclists when the platform’s steering functions allow it.
A more immersive experience on Zwift
The main benefit of the Sterzo Smart is its interaction with Zwift.
Once the bike is mounted on the home trainer and the front wheel is positioned on the mount, simply establish a Bluetooth connection with Zwift. The system is wireless and does not require a smartphone to be mounted on the handlebars to measure steering movements.
Steering thus becomes a genuine training and virtual racing metric, complementing the usual data such as power, speed and cadence.
A stable platform for indoor training
The Sterzo Smart is not just a steering sensor. Its raised design keeps the front wheel in a stable position whilst allowing for lateral movement.
Elite It uses reinforced materials and non-slip rubber feet to maintain good stability during intense sessions. The feet also help to protect the surface on which the stand is placed.
The central spring system naturally returns the wheel to its initial position when the handlebars are released, making it easier to control the bike during sessions.
Compatibility with bicycle tyres
The Sterzo Smart EL0180601Elite is compatible with wheels fitted with tyres up to 56 mm wide. It is therefore suitable for a wide range of road bike set-ups as well as bikes fitted with wider tyres, within the limits specified by Elite.
Our advice: the Sterzo Smart really comes into its own when used with a connected indoor trainer and regular use of Zwift. For a cyclist who mainly does structured sessions without steering functions, a simple front-wheel stand may be sufficient.
For fans of virtual races, however, the ability to control your line is a real bonus, particularly when overtaking and positioning yourself in the peloton.
Setting up the Sterzo Smart Elite
Set-up is particularly straightforward:
- Set up the home trainer and the bike in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Place the Sterzo Smart in front of the bike.
- Position the front wheel in the designated slot.
- Check that the mount is correctly aligned.
- Insert the AAA batteries.
- Switch on the Sterzo Smart.
- Open Zwift and search for the mount in the Bluetooth accessories.
- Pair the devices.
- Check the steering response before starting your session.
Elite Sterzo Smart is a plug-and-play solution, allowing you to fit the wheel, connect the mount to Zwift and start training straight away.
Sterzo Smart or classic Sterzo?
Elite also sells a mechanical version called Sterzo.
The main difference is that the Sterzo Smart EL0180601 incorporates electronics that measure and transmit steering movements wirelessly to Zwift. The classic Sterzo, on the other hand, allows for mechanical movement of the wheel but does not have this integrated electronic transmission.
Technical specifications
