Wattbike Updates: Firmware, App, Troubleshooting, and Maintenance

How do I update my Wattbike?

Updating your Wattbike involves ensuring both its internal firmware and the companion Wattbike Hub application are running the latest versions, a process primarily managed through the Wattbike Hub app for firmware and your device's app store for the application itself.

Why Update Your Wattbike?

Regularly updating your Wattbike is crucial for maintaining optimal performance, accuracy, and access to the latest features. As an advanced indoor trainer, the Wattbike relies on sophisticated software to deliver its precise metrics and engaging training experiences.

• Improved Accuracy and Calibration: Firmware updates often include refinements to the Wattbike's internal algorithms, enhancing the precision of power, cadence, and other data metrics. This ensures your training data is as reliable as possible.
• Enhanced Performance Metrics: New firmware versions can introduce advanced metrics or improve the calculation of existing ones, providing deeper insights into your physiological responses and pedalling technique.
• New Features and Training Modes: Wattbike continuously evolves its platform. Updates can unlock new workouts, testing protocols, resistance modes, or integration capabilities that were not available in previous versions.
• Bug Fixes and Stability: Like all software, Wattbike firmware and the Hub app can have bugs. Updates address these issues, improving the overall stability and reliability of your training experience and preventing unexpected crashes or data discrepancies.
• Compatibility with Third-Party Apps: Keeping your Wattbike updated helps ensure seamless integration and compatibility with popular third-party training platforms like Zwift, TrainingPeaks, and Rouvy, allowing for a richer virtual training environment.

Types of Wattbike Updates

There are generally two main components of your Wattbike ecosystem that require updating:

• Firmware Updates (Wattbike Monitor): This refers to the internal software that runs on your Wattbike's performance monitor. These updates typically improve data accuracy, add new features, or fix bugs related to the bike's core functionality. They are almost always delivered via the Wattbike Hub app.
• Wattbike Hub App Updates: This is the application on your smartphone or tablet that connects to your Wattbike, displays data, manages workouts, and facilitates firmware updates. These updates are managed through your device's respective app store (Apple App Store for iOS, Google Play Store for Android).

Preparing for an Update

Before initiating any update, especially a firmware update, it's wise to take a few preparatory steps to ensure a smooth and successful process.

• Ensure Sufficient Battery Life: For firmware updates, make sure your Wattbike monitor has at least 50% battery life, or ideally, keep it plugged into mains power. This prevents the update from being interrupted due to power loss.
• Stable Internet Connection: Your device running the Wattbike Hub app needs a strong and stable internet connection to download the update files.
• Latest Wattbike Hub App: Always ensure your Wattbike Hub app itself is updated to the very latest version before attempting a firmware update. Older app versions may not recognize or correctly install the newest firmware.
• Note Current Settings (Optional but Recommended): While rare, some updates might reset certain user preferences. It can be helpful to note down your current user profile settings, such as weight, FTP, or custom workout parameters, just in case.

Step-by-Step Guide: Updating Your Wattbike Firmware

The Wattbike Hub app is your primary tool for managing firmware updates. Follow these steps carefully:

• Step 1: Power On Your Wattbike
  • Turn on your Wattbike by pressing the power button on the performance monitor. Ensure it's fully awake and ready to connect.
• Step 2: Open the Wattbike Hub App
  • Launch the Wattbike Hub app on your smartphone or tablet.
• Step 3: Connect to Your Wattbike
  • Within the Wattbike Hub app, select your Wattbike from the list of available devices. Once connected, the app will display your real-time data.
• Step 4: Navigate to Settings
  • Look for the 'Settings' or 'Gear' icon within the Wattbike Hub app. This is usually located in the top corner or a dedicated menu.
• Step 5: Check for Firmware Updates
  • Within the settings menu, you should find an option related to 'Firmware' or 'About Wattbike'. Select this to view your current firmware version and check for available updates. The app will automatically scan for the latest version.
• Step 6: Initiate the Update
  • If an update is available, the app will prompt you to download and install it. Confirm your choice to begin the process.
• Step 7: Monitor Progress and Do Not Interrupt
  • The update will download and then install on your Wattbike. It is critical that you do not turn off your Wattbike or close the Wattbike Hub app during this process. Interrupting a firmware update can corrupt the device and require professional servicing. The update can take several minutes.
• Step 8: Verify the Update
  • Once the update is complete, the app will notify you. You can then navigate back to the 'Firmware' section in the settings to confirm that the new version number is displayed.

Updating the Wattbike Hub App

Updating the Wattbike Hub app is a standard procedure for any mobile application.

• For iOS Devices (iPhone/iPad):
  • Open the App Store.
  • Tap your profile icon in the top right corner.
  • Scroll down to see pending updates. If Wattbike Hub is listed, tap Update.
  • Alternatively, search for "Wattbike Hub" and if an update is available, an "Update" button will appear instead of "Open."
• For Android Devices:
  • Open the Google Play Store.
  • Tap your profile icon in the top right corner.
  • Select "Manage apps & device", then "Updates available." If Wattbike Hub is listed, tap Update.
  • Alternatively, search for "Wattbike Hub" and if an update is available, an "Update" button will appear instead of "Open."

Troubleshooting Common Update Issues

While updates are generally straightforward, issues can occasionally arise.

• Update Fails or Gets Stuck:
  • Check internet connection: Ensure your device has a strong Wi-Fi or cellular signal.
  • Restart everything: Close and reopen the Wattbike Hub app, turn your Wattbike off and on again, and even restart your phone/tablet. Then try the update process again.
  • Clear app cache (Android): In your device settings, find the Wattbike Hub app and clear its cache.
• Wattbike Not Connecting to Hub:
  • Bluetooth: Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your device and that the Wattbike is not connected to another device.
  • Proximity: Make sure your device is close to your Wattbike.
  • Restart: Power cycle both your Wattbike and your mobile device.
• Loss of Data/Settings After Update:
  • This is rare for firmware updates but can happen with major app updates. Most critical training data is synced to your Wattbike Hub cloud account. Log out and back into your Wattbike Hub account to resync data.
• Contacting Wattbike Support:
  • If you encounter persistent issues, especially during a firmware update, do not hesitate to contact Wattbike's official customer support. Provide them with details of your Wattbike model, current firmware version, and the issue you're facing.

Post-Update Best Practices

After a successful firmware update, a couple of steps are recommended to ensure optimal performance.

• Perform a Zero Offset Calibration: This ensures the power meter is accurately calibrated. Refer to your Wattbike's user manual or the Wattbike Hub app for specific instructions on performing a zero offset. It's a quick and essential step.
• Conduct a Test Ride: Do a short, easy ride to ensure everything is functioning as expected and that data is being recorded accurately.
• Explore New Features: If the update introduced new features, take some time to explore them within the Wattbike Hub app or on the monitor itself.

The Importance of Regular Maintenance

Updating your Wattbike is a critical part of its digital maintenance. Combined with physical cleaning and occasional mechanical checks, these digital updates ensure your Wattbike remains a precise, reliable, and cutting-edge tool for your fitness and performance goals. Stay proactive, stay updated, and continue to maximize your training potential.