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Smart Trainer Compatibility Report 2026

Data last updated: 2026-08-01

We aggregated axle, freehub and cassette compatibility across 33 smart trainers from 10 brands. Here is what the data says about what actually fits — and what you still have to buy.

Quick answer

Across 33 smart trainers, 22 of the direct-drive models (73%) ship without a cassette — so for most trainers you buy one matching your bike. Thru-axle adapters are included on 93% of direct-drive trainers, and Shimano/SRAM HG is the default freehub on nearly all of them; SRAM XD/XDR, Shimano Micro Spline and Campagnolo are aftermarket swaps.

The dataset at a glance

33
trainers analysed
10
brands
30
direct-drive
22
ship without a cassette

Key findings

  • 1

    22 of 33 trainers (73% of direct-drive) ship bare — you add a cassette matching your bike’s drivetrain speed.

  • 2

    Thru-axle adapters are included in the box on 93% of direct-drive trainers, so most modern road and gravel bikes mount with no extra purchase.

  • 3

    27 of 33 trainers support 12×148 mm Boost thru-axle — MTB compatibility is now near-universal on current direct-drive models.

  • 4

    Shimano/SRAM HG (HyperGlide) is the most widely supported aftermarket freehub body (28 trainers) — relevant if you run a SRAM or 12-speed drivetrain.

Freehub body support across the market

How many of the 33 trainers can run each freehub body (with the matching driver).

Shimano/SRAM HG (HyperGlide)28 / 33
SRAM XDR Driver Body24 / 33
SRAM XD Driver Body18 / 33
Campagnolo13 / 33
Shimano Micro Spline6 / 33

Methodology

Figures are computed live from the FitMyTrainer database — 33 trainers across 10 brands, each field verified against manufacturer specs and reputable reviews (sources are listed on every trainer page). We never include hands-on claims or unverified figures; unknown values are excluded, not guessed.

Frequently asked questions

No — 22 of 33 trainers in our dataset ship without one. Direct-drive trainers are usually sold bare; you add a cassette matching your bike’s speed and freehub body. Wheel-on and virtual-shifting trainers need none.