Elite

The Elite Suito comes with a cassette, whereas the Elite Suito T (the cheaper version) does not include one. This distinction is important when purchasing: the Suito T is around €40 cheaper, but you’ll need to add the cost of a compatible cassette. Both models are technically identical and feature the same electronic capabilities (power accuracy to 1.5%, gradient simulation up to 24%, compatibility with Zwift, Rouvy and Kinomap). For someone who already has a cassette, the Suito T is the most economical option. For a first-time home trainer user with no existing equipment, the ready-to-use Suito is more practical.

Yes, the Elite Direto and Justo 2 home trainers are both compatible with the main virtual cycling platforms: Zwift, TrainerRoad, Rouvy, Kinomap and My E-Training. Connection is via Bluetooth and ANT+. The Justo 2 adds a Wi-Fi connection for optimal stability during Zwift sessions. It comes with a Shimano 12-speed cassette and offers pedalling analysis via the Elite software. It has an accuracy of +/- 1% and can simulate gradients of up to 24%. The Direto XR-T is the high-end equivalent with a maximum simulated power of 2,400 W.

Yes, Elite bottle cages such as the Custom Race Plus or the Vico Carbone are compatible with all standard 74 mm diameter bottles, whether 500 ml bottles or larger 950 ml bottles. Customers confirm that large Camelbak Inox bottles stay securely in place even on rough terrain. The Custom Race Plus uses an adjustable elastomer cap that automatically adapts to the bottle’s diameter. A handy tip: avoid using screws with heads that are too wide when fitting the Vico Carbone bottle cage, as its specific geometry may make certain frames incompatible with non-standard fasteners.

The Leggero Carbon is one of the lightest bottle cages on the market at just 15 g, but its lightness may mean it holds slightly less firmly than heavier models. Customers confirm that it holds standard bottles securely, and that it works particularly well with an Elite Fly bottle. Its high-strength carbon fibre is reinforced in the areas under the most stress. On very rough roads or for cyclists who frequently refill their bottle whilst riding fast, the Custom Race Plus (40 g, elastomer) offers a more secure hold. The Leggero Carbon is selected by WorldTour teams for races and time trials.

Yes, most modern mountain bikes use a 12x142 mm or 12x148 mm Boost thru-axle, which is not compatible with the quick-release skewer supplied as standard with Elite trainers. You will need to purchase the adapter that matches your axle standard. For the Specialized Rockhopper mountain bike with a quick-release skewer, Matériel Vélo’s customer service team confirms compatibility with the appropriate thru-axle adapter. For the 130x10 mm and 135x10 mm standards (older road bikes), adapters specifically for the Drivo, Direto, Kura and Turno models are available on the website. It is recommended to use a specific indoor trainer tyre to reduce noise and wear.

Yes, the roller spacing must be greater than or equal to the bike’s wheelbase according to Elite’s instructions. A customer with a bike having a wheelbase of 1025 mm must therefore select the 1044 mm setting (higher) and not 1024 mm (lower) to ensure stability. Elite’s customer service team usually responds to queries of this nature within 24 hours, which is much appreciated. The Arion’s parabolic rollers naturally pull the wheel back to the centre, but an incorrect width setting reduces this effect and may lead to falls during initial attempts.

Yes, an older bike with a quick-release mechanism (130x10 mm or 135x10 mm axle) is compatible with the Elite Suito, Turno and Justo home trainers using the quick-release mechanism supplied. Compatibility does not depend on the age of the bike but on its axle standard. For a 1981 bike with a double chainring and 5 speeds, the trainer’s cassette may not be suitable for the number of gears. In this case, it is better to use your own cassette that is compatible with the derailleur or consider a roller trainer such as the Arion, which is compatible with any drivetrain.

The Direto XR-T can simulate gradients of up to 24%, which is one of the highest figures on the market, exceeding the 20% of the Wahoo Kickr. By way of comparison, the Tacx Neo 2T Smart goes up to 25%. Such extreme gradients are rare in real life but allow for very intense training on virtual platforms such as Zwift. Its accuracy of +/- 1.5% is slightly lower than that of the Justo 2 (+/- 1%) but remains very good for all uses. With a maximum power rating of 2,400 W, the Direto XR-T is designed for the most powerful cyclists.

For hot conditions, Elite offers insulated water bottles featuring Aerogel technology, which keep drinks cool for longer than standard bottles. These bottles are available in several capacities (500 ml, 750 ml). For mountain riding and long climbs, the 750 ml size is recommended to minimise refuelling stops. Elite Fly bottles are the lightest in the range (93 g for 750 ml) and form part of the WorldTour selection. They are compatible with all standard 74 mm diameter bottle cages. The Team range aims for the optimal balance between lightness and insulation.