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'Smart' generally refers to one that will connect to your computer and automatically change resistance. So for things like Zwift it feels like you're actually riding up and down hills/mountains.
Smart trainers will generally also have some form of power measured or estimated too.
Direct drive ones are good, just more expensive than the more traditional ones but you don't have to mess around with a spare wheel and the associated mystery punctures etc. Also you don't have to worry about the tyre slipping (more a problem with some brands than others).One thing to consider how easy it is to change the resistance. The Wahoo Kickr for example is great, but you need to use an app on your phone to adjust the resistance on the fly which isn't great while you're covered in sweat and your finger is no longer recognised by the screen. The JetBlack WhisperDrive would be my choice because it uses a manual resistance lever.
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Sumo
So the wife and I have decided to create a 'training room' for the winter months. She has given me Carte Blanche to select a turbo to strap to my Cervelo. Given the puncture horrors I've read here, it seems that direct drive is a good idea, but what do you guys recommend? It's worth noting that I already have a power meter, so do I need a 'smart' trainer? Actually what the hell is a smart trainer anyway? Any opinions appreciated!