Zwift has finally unveiled the Zwift Ride, an indoor bike that’s been the subject of much speculation. Is it just another entrant into the crowded market, or does the Zwift Bike offer something truly innovative for indoor cycling enthusiasts? This review dives deep into the Zwift Ride, examining its features, performance, and potential impact on the future of Zwift and the broader indoor cycling world. Just like their game-changing Zwift Hub trainer, the Zwift Ride is poised to shake things up.
The Zwift Ride isn’t a standalone smart bike in the traditional sense. Instead, it cleverly combines a dedicated Zwift indoor frame with the proven Wahoo KICKR CORE smart trainer and the Zwift COG. This unique approach creates a seamless, all-in-one Zwift experience. Looking at the Zwift Ride, you can see echoes of Zwift’s evolving product strategy, a journey marked by innovation and adaptation.
But beyond its conceptual origins, the real question is: how does the Zwift Bike actually ride? I’ve spent over a month putting the Zwift Ride through rigorous testing, exploring its capabilities across various workout types. My wife, representing a different rider profile, also tested the bike, providing valuable insights into Zwift’s claim of a one-size-fits-all design. This hands-on review will give you a comprehensive understanding of whether the Zwift Ride lives up to the hype.
This review is based on a media loaner unit, which will be returned to Zwift. Should you find this review helpful, please consider using the purchase links provided or supporting my work through DCR Supporter. Your support keeps the reviews coming!
Zwift Ride Overview
Zwift Ride: Key Features at a Glance
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s quickly outline what the Zwift Ride actually is. For those seeking a concise overview, this section breaks down the essential details. Essentially, the Zwift Ride takes the essence of the rumored Zwift Tron Bike project and refines it into a more accessible package. The futuristic vision is still there, but without the overly complex and perhaps unnecessary elements.
The Zwift Ride is composed of two main components:
A) Wahoo KICKR CORE ONE Smart Trainer: This is the familiar Wahoo KICKR CORE trainer, launched recently, but with a crucial modification: the Zwift Cog. Specifically, it features an updated, quieter version of the Zwift Cog compared to the initial release.
B) Zwift Frame: This is where the innovation lies. The Zwift Frame is a single, adjustable indoor frame equipped with integrated shifters and controls inspired by Zwift Play. It incorporates all the functionalities of Zwift Play controllers, plus some additional features. Beyond the handlebar controls, the frame itself is purely mechanical – a robust steel structure with a single-speed chain system, which we’ll discuss further.
Together, these components form the Zwift Ride. Later in the year, Zwift plans to offer the Zwift Frame separately, allowing users to pair it with their existing Zwift Hub or Wahoo KICKR trainers. Furthermore, Zwift has announced collaborations with other trainer manufacturers to ensure compatibility with the Zwift Cog, expanding the Zwift Bike ecosystem. While the Zwift Frame is physically compatible with any trainer, the Zwift Cog requires specific firmware integration with each trainer model.
With that basic understanding, let’s delve into the technical specifications of the Zwift Bike.
Zwift Ride: Decoding the Specs
Zwift Ride Components
First, let’s examine the pricing for the complete Zwift Ride package, including both the trainer and frame:
USA: $1299.99
EU: €1299.99
UK: £1199.99
Canada: $1,999.99
Australia: $2,299.95
Keep in mind these additional costs:
Shipping Fee: USA – $75, EU – €100, UK – £65
Tablet Holder: USA – $49.99, EU – €49.99, UK – £39.99
Now, let’s break down the specifications for the two key parts: the Zwift Frame and the Wahoo KICKR CORE with Zwift Cog.
Zwift Frame Specifications:
- Crank Arm Length: 170mm (Square Taper)
- Pedals: Flat pedals included (swappable)
- Q-Factor: 150mm
- Handlebar Width: 420mm
- Handlebar Drop: 125mm
- Handlebar Reach: 70mm
- Handlebar Type: 31.8mm
- Rider Height Range: 5’ – 6’6” // 152 – 198 cm
- Saddle Height Range: 61cm-87cm (BB center to saddle top)
- Stepover Height: 30 in // 76 cm
- Max Rider Weight: 265 lbs // 120 kg
- Zwift Frame Weight: 38lbs / 17kg
Wahoo KICKR CORE Specifications (with Zwift Cog):
- Flywheel Weight: 5.4kg
- Cassette: Zwift Cog (updated version)
- Protocols: ANT+ & Bluetooth Smart (ANT+ FE-C & Bluetooth FTMS)
- Max Incline Simulation: 16%
- Max Resistance: 1,800w
- Claimed Accuracy: +/- 2%
- KICKR CORE Weight: 40lbs / 18kg
Got all the numbers? Let’s move on to the unboxing experience.
Unboxing the Zwift Ride
Zwift Ride Box Contents
The Zwift Ride arrives in three distinct boxes. The largest box contains the main Zwift Ride frame, a second box holds the handlebars and accessories, and the third contains the Wahoo KICKR CORE. Since I already possessed a KICKR CORE ONE with the Zwift Cog, I received only two boxes, avoiding redundant hardware.
Upon unpacking, you’ll find these components laid out. Note the plastic bag in front of the KICKR CORE box – this contains the updated Zwift Cog, sent to replace my original version. If you purchase the Zwift Frame separately later, it will include this updated Cog. The complete Zwift Ride will, of course, come with the Cog pre-installed on the KICKR CORE.
Zwift Ride Unpacked Components
Examining the contents, you’ll find instruction manuals for both the KICKR CORE and the Zwift Ride frame. These manuals are neatly housed in a cardboard holder, which also features a QR code for accessing additional online guides.
The bundle includes a tablet holder (a $50 optional extra), along with two silicone inserts – one for use with the tablet holder and one without. A thru-axle adapter and a dual-prong USB-C cable are also included.
Zwift Ride Handlebar and Accessories
The larger components include the handlebar assembly and the adjustable handlebar post. You also get a pair of flat pedals (likely to be replaced by most cyclists), magnetic cable holders, and a separate manual for the handlebar components.
Zwift Ride Small Parts
Assembly is remarkably simple. You place the Zwift Frame onto the KICKR CORE, just as you would mount a regular bike. Then, you rotate the orange knob upwards to tension the chain.
Zwift Ride Frame on Trainer
Next, you install the seat post and handlebars, adjusting them with the included orange wrench, which conveniently attaches to the top tube.
Zwift Ride Assembly Wrench
The entire assembly process is impressively quick, taking only about 5-7 minutes. Let’s explore the riding experience in more detail.
Riding the Zwift Bike: Performance and Feel
Zwift Ride in Action
During my month-long testing, I often forgot that the Zwift Ride isn’t a traditional, integrated smart bike. While technically a two-piece system, it functions seamlessly as a complete smart bike unit. Perhaps it’s time to rethink the definition of a “smart bike.” After all, the Zwift Ride is essentially a trainer and frame combination, much like any standard bike setup, but designed for dedicated indoor use with an exposed drivetrain. In almost every practical aspect, it behaves and performs like a smart bike.
First, let’s address fit and customization. How well does the Zwift Bike accommodate different body sizes? I am 6’2” (188cm), and my wife is 5’2” (157cm), representing a significant height difference. Both of us were able to comfortably ride and adjust the Zwift Ride. While my wife primarily trains on her triathlon bike, clip-on aero bars could easily be added to the Zwift Ride if needed.
The Zwift Ride offers adjustability in these key areas:
- Saddle height (vertical adjustment)
- Saddle position (fore/aft and tilt)
- Handlebar height (vertical adjustment)
- Handlebar position (fore/aft adjustment)
However, crank arm length is fixed at 170mm, a common length (similar to Peloton and Wattbike). While suitable for a broad range of riders, it’s not ideal for everyone (I typically use 175mm cranks). Most high-end smart bikes offer adjustable crank arms. Technically, you could swap the square-taper crank arms on the Zwift Ride, but the bottom bracket is non-standard, and Zwift discourages this modification.
Zwift Ride Adjustment WrenchOne of the standout design elements of the Zwift Ride is the included hex wrench.
Zwift Ride Wrench Mount
Firstly, its bright orange color and dedicated magnetic mount on the frame’s top tube (shown below) are brilliant. The wrench is always readily accessible on the bike itself – a feature every indoor bike should adopt. Secondly, and crucially, every adjustment point on the Zwift Ride uses the same bolt size. One wrench for all adjustments – incredibly user-friendly.
Zwift Ride Wrench Mounted
These thoughtful design details are what distinguish a product engineered by a team versus one refined through extensive user testing and feedback. Zwift clearly prioritized user experience, as evidenced by the intuitive setup and packaging, similar to the Zwift Hub’s user-friendly approach that made indoor cycling accessible to newcomers.
The handlebars feature a flat surface for phone placement. However, the lack of USB charging ports (or wireless charging) is a missed opportunity. Zwift prioritized simplicity and affordability over integrated charging.
Zwift Ride Handlebar Tray
Humorously, Zwift labels this area as suitable for bottles, pizza, and donuts.
Zwift Ride Pizza Area
I tested bottles, phones, and donuts – pizza unfortunately didn’t make the cut.
Zwift Ride Donut Test
Donuts, however, worked perfectly. Consume them early in your session to avoid sweaty donut holes! The Zwift Ride’s removable silicone tray does include a sweat drainage channel.
Below the handlebars are two open-cage water bottle holders, resembling convertible car designs. Initially, I was concerned about bottles falling out, but even during intense riding, they remained secure. If a bottle ejects, you’re likely falling off the bike too.
Zwift Ride Water Bottle Cages
Regarding movement and ride feel: The Zwift Ride is stable due to its weight, although it’s lighter than many dedicated smart bikes. While not overly flexible, it’s not uncomfortably rigid. Rocker plate enthusiasts might find it somewhat stiff, but mounting it on a rocker plate should be straightforward. Sprints and hard efforts felt stable, comparable to riding a Wahoo KICKR with a regular bike, just slightly heavier.
Zwift Ride Side View
The single front leg design is practical and simplifies manufacturing compared to a fork-style design. The bottom cap is removable, potentially allowing for future height adjustments for compatibility with different trainers.
Zwift Ride Front Leg Detail
However, the Zwift Ride is not natively compatible with KICKR CLIMB or Elite RIZER grade simulators. Zwift stated that adding compatibility would have increased cost and complexity for this first-generation product, but it’s a feature they are considering for future iterations.
Let’s discuss shifting and the integrated shifters. The Zwift Frame has two main parts: the frame itself and the detachable handlebars. These handlebars house a modified version of the Zwift Play controllers, with additional buttons.
Zwift Ride Handlebar Controls
For shifting, steering, and braking, buttons are available on both sides of the handlebars, plus extra “Drop” buttons.
Zwift Ride Shifting Buttons
Facing the rider are two sets of game control buttons, identical to Zwift Play. These control in-game actions like Ride Ons, menu navigation, and selections.
Zwift Ride Game Control Buttons
Zwift Ride Game Control Buttons Detail
Zwift Ride Game Control Buttons Detail 2
These Zwift Play-style buttons are incredibly useful, far superior to using the Zwift Companion app with sweaty fingers. They allow you to change routes at junctions, control ERG mode, take screenshots, change views, and more.
For shifting, you can choose between three configurations: sequential shifting (20+ gears in a sequence), SRAM eTAP/AXS-style, and Shimano Di2-style. These are selectable in the Zwift settings menu.
Zwift Ride Shifting Settings Menu
You can also select from different virtual gear setups. Customizable gearing, like some high-end smart bikes offer, isn’t yet available, but likely to be added in a future software update.
Zwift Ride Virtual Gear Selection
Shifting responsiveness was excellent – instantaneous, mirroring the Zwift Click and Zwift Cog experience on the Zwift Hub and KICKR CORE ONE. I primarily used SRAM and Shimano modes during testing, with the current gear displayed in the upper left corner of the Zwift interface.
Zwift Ride Gear Display
While the button-based shifting is effective, I still prefer the realism of traditional bike shifters found on bikes like the Wahoo KICKR Bike. The smart bike industry initially used game-style buttons but quickly transitioned to realistic shifters for enhanced immersion. Button shifting feels less engaging to me, but Zwift argues that buttons are more approachable for new cyclists.
Road feel is determined by the Wahoo KICKR CORE trainer. “Road feel” in trainers refers to acceleration and deceleration sensations compared to outdoor riding. For me, the indoor experience is inherently different from outdoor riding regardless of the trainer. However, flywheel weight significantly impacts inertia and ride feel, especially during accelerations and changes in pace.
Zwift Ride Drivetrain Detail
The KICKR CORE has a 5.4kg flywheel, slightly heavier than the Zwift Hub’s 4.7kg. While flywheel weight is just one factor, the Zwift Ride feels good in terms of road feel. Accelerations and decelerations are responsive, and I’m satisfied with the overall ride quality. It would be perfectly acceptable as my primary indoor bike.
In terms of noise, the Zwift Ride is quiet overall. The KICKR CORE itself is virtually silent. The updated Zwift Cog produces a slight chain noise, as does the chainring and the orange puck guide. The chain noise is audible (as you can hear in the video review), but it’s not intrusive – quieter than a typical cooling fan.
Zwift Ride Rear Detail
Connectivity with Apple TV was problematic. Apple TV’s two Bluetooth connection limit means the trainer and Zwift controllers occupy both slots, leaving no connection for a heart rate sensor. Using the Zwift Companion app for bridging connections with Apple TV resulted in frequent dropouts, making it unusable for me.
Zwift Ride Apple TV Connection Issue
As a primary Apple TV Zwift user, this was disappointing. Ideally, Zwift (or Wahoo) would integrate heart rate bridging into the handlebars or trainer to resolve this limitation. While Zwift attempted troubleshooting, they acknowledged connectivity issues with this configuration. I experienced no connectivity problems using iPhones, iPads, or Macs – the issue is specific to Apple TV and the Zwift Companion app, which is known for occasional reliability issues.
Hopefully, Zwift will prioritize improving connectivity for a smoother user experience.
Zwift Bike App Compatibility
Zwift Ride with Tablet
Including an app compatibility section for a Zwift-branded product might seem redundant, but many users utilize smart trainers with various platforms. The Zwift Ride, at its core, is still a KICKR CORE.
This section is largely identical to my previous Wahoo KICKR CORE Zwift One review since it’s essentially the same trainer. The main difference is the controller interface – handlebars versus the Zwift Click. Trainer compatibility remains unchanged.
Years ago, trainer and app compatibility was complex. However, standardization has largely simplified things. Typically, I could copy/paste this section with minor tweaks for each trainer. Everything generally worked with everything, until the Zwift Hub One and now the Zwift Ride. These products are somewhat reversing that trend. However, there might be future improvements on the horizon.
While the Zwift Ride adheres to ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart protocols for data transmission, shifting functionality is exclusive to Zwift. The Zwift Ride broadcasts power, cadence, etc., to any app, and any app can control resistance. However, shifting is only possible within the Zwift app.
For simulation mode in other apps, shifting is unavailable on the Zwift Ride. For ERG mode workouts in any app, the Zwift Ride functions perfectly as you don’t need to shift. These apps can control the Zwift Ride just like any standard smart trainer.
Zwift Ride App Compatibility
Ideally, the Zwift Ride controllers would communicate directly with the trainer, independent of the app, similar to how the Wahoo KICKR CLIMB interacts directly with the trainer. This would ensure app-agnostic compatibility. However, Zwift handles virtual gearing simulation, rather than offloading it to trainer manufacturers.
Zwift and Wahoo have stated they are developing API documentation to enable third-party apps to support Zwift Play/Click/Ride. This would allow platforms like Rouvy, FulGaz, and Indievelo to integrate Zwift Cog compatibility. However, the release timeline for this API remains unclear for apps. Progress has been made with trainer manufacturers – other brands are expected to support Zwift Cog and Zwift Frame compatibility soon.
Here’s the complete list of supported transmission standards for the Zwift Ride (via the KICKR CORE):
ANT+ FE-C Control: Trainer control via ANT+ from apps and head units, including power & cadence data. Learn more about ANT+ FE-C.
ANT+ Power Meter Profile: Standard ANT+ power meter broadcast, with cadence and speed data.
Bluetooth Smart FTMS: Industry standard for Bluetooth Smart trainer control, including power and cadence data.
Bluetooth Smart Power Meter Profile: Standard BLE power meter broadcast with cadence and speed data.
The Zwift Ride does NOT support these protocols:
ANT+ Speed/Cadence Profile: Speed and cadence data only, as a standard ANT+ Speed/Cadence sensor.
Bluetooth Smart Speed/Cadence Profile: Speed and cadence data only, as a standard BLE Speed/Cadence sensor.
These are mainly useful for basic smartwatches lacking power meter support, unlikely to be a major concern for most users.
During testing, I used Zwift extensively and also tested TrainerRoad ERG mode workouts without issues. Data transmission to Garmin watches, Apple Watch, and Garmin bike computers was also successful.
Zwift Ride Power Accuracy
Zwift Ride Power Accuracy Testing
The Zwift Ride utilizes the KICKR CORE Hub One, the same trainer I recently reviewed. My accuracy testing then, and ongoing use, confirms consistent and accurate power data, as expected from the KICKR CORE.
For detailed power accuracy analysis, refer to the power accuracy section of my KICKR CORE Hub One review.
Zwift Bike: Indoor Bike Comparisons
Comparing the Zwift Ride to dedicated smart bikes like the Wahoo KICKR Bike Shift is inevitable. While not a direct comparison, consumers will naturally evaluate them side-by-side. Here’s a comparison table highlighting key specs:
| Function/Feature | Zwift Ride | Wahoo KICKR BIKE SHIFT | Tacx NEO Bike Plus | Wattbike ATOM 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Copyright DC Rainmaker – Updated June 12th, 2024 @ 8:07 pm New Window | ||||
| Price for trainer | $1,299 | $2,999 | $3,999 | $2,599 |
| Trainer Type | Indoor Bike Frameset | Indoor Bike | Indoor Bike | Indoor Bike |
| Available today (for sale) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Availability regions | US/EUR/CAN/AUS/JPN | Limited Initially | Global | UK/South Africa/Australia/Scandinavia/USA |
| Wired or Wireless data transmission/control | Wireless | Wireless | Wireless | Wireless |
| Power cord required | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Flywheel weight | 5.4kg | Simulated/Virtual 125KG | 9.28KG/20.4lbs | |
| Includes cassette | Yes | N/A | N/A | |
| Resistance | Zwift Ride | Wahoo KICKR BIKE SHIFT | Tacx NEO Bike Plus | Wattbike ATOM 2020 |
| Includes motor to drive speed (simulate downhill) | No | No | Yes | No |
| Maximum wattage capability | 1,800w @ 40KPH | 2,200w @ 40KPH | 2,200w @ 40KPH | 2,500w |
| Maximum simulated hill incline | 16% | 20% (and -15% downhill) | 25% | 25% |
| Features | Zwift Ride | Wahoo KICKR BIKE SHIFT | Tacx NEO Bike Plus | Wattbike ATOM 2020 |
| Measures/Estimates Left/Right Power | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Can directionally steer trainer (left/right) | Yes | Yes (with compatible apps) | YES (WITH COMPATIBLE APPS) | Yes (with compatible apps) |
| Can simulate road patterns/shaking (i.e. cobblestones) | No | No | Yes | No |
| Motion | Zwift Ride | Wahoo KICKR BIKE SHIFT | Tacx NEO Bike Plus | Wattbike ATOM 2020 |
| Can slide forward/back with movement | No | No | No | No |
| Can rock/tilt side to side (significantly) | No | No | No | No |
| Accuracy | Zwift Ride | Wahoo KICKR BIKE SHIFT | Tacx NEO Bike Plus | Wattbike ATOM 2020 |
| Supported accuracy level | +/- 2% | +/- 1% | +/- 1% | +/- 2% |
| Trainer Control | Zwift Ride | Wahoo KICKR BIKE SHIFT | Tacx NEO Bike Plus | Wattbike ATOM 2020 |
| Supports ANT+ FE-C (Trainer Control Standard) | Yes (but limited to Zwift for shifting) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Supports Bluetooth Smart FTMS (Trainer Control Standard) | Yes (but limited to Zwift for shifting) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| WiFi or Ethernet | No | WiFi (Ethernet with accessory) | No | No |
| Data Broadcast | Zwift Ride | Wahoo KICKR BIKE SHIFT | Tacx NEO Bike Plus | Wattbike ATOM 2020 |
| Transmits power via Bluetooth Smart | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Supports Multiple Concurrent Bluetooth connections | Yes, 3 Concurrent | Yes, 3 Concurrent | No, just one | Yes |
| Transmits cadence data | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Bridging or re-transmission | No | No | No | No |
| Race Mode (High Speed Data) | No | No | No | |
| Indoor Bike Features | Zwift Ride | Wahoo KICKR BIKE SHIFT | Tacx NEO Bike Plus | Wattbike ATOM 2020 |
| Can customize shifting (Shimano/SRAM/Campagnolo) | Yes (Shimano/SRAM/Sequential) | Yes (Shimano/SRAM/Campagnolo) | Yes | No |
| Can customize gearing | Very lightly | Yes (both cassette and chainrings) | Yes | Yes |
| Supported Crank Lengths | 170mm | 165/167.5/170/172.5/175mm | 170/172.5/175mm | 170mm |
| Display | No | No | Yes | No |
| USB Ports | No | No | 2 USB Ports (2AMP) | No |
| Purchase | Zwift Ride | Wahoo KICKR BIKE SHIFT | Tacx NEO Bike Plus | |
| Amazon | Link | |||
| Backcountry.com | Link | |||
| Competitive Cyclist | Link | Link | ||
| DCRainmaker | Zwift Ride | Wahoo KICKR BIKE SHIFT | Tacx NEO Bike Plus | Wattbike ATOM 2020 |
For ride feel comparisons, the Zwift Ride is comparable to the Wahoo KICKR Bike SHIFT, lacking the advanced features of the higher-end Wahoo KICKR Bike V1/V2 (like full bike tilt and race mode). However, against the KICKR BIKE SHIFT, the Zwift Ride offers similar performance at half the price, making it a compelling value proposition.
Final Verdict: Is the Zwift Ride the Future of Zwift Bikes?
Zwift Ride Conclusion Shot
The Zwift Ride is a potentially industry-shifting product. Initially, it might seem like just a more affordable smart bike option. And it is – offering smart bike functionality at roughly half the cost of competitors. However, its real innovation lies in its modular design: a dedicated trainer frame compatible with various trainers.
Zwift is actively collaborating with other manufacturers to develop Zwift Frame-compatible trainers using the Zwift Cog system. This approach could fundamentally change the indoor cycling hardware landscape by creating a standardized, open ecosystem. By the end of the year, and even sooner, the market could look significantly different. Future compatibility with features like Wahoo’s Race Mode on higher-end KICKR trainers is also anticipated.
However, the long-term impact hinges on Zwift’s willingness to open up the Zwift Cog ecosystem to other training apps. Currently, shifting functionality is locked to Zwift. Without broader app compatibility, users might hesitate to invest in hardware that ties them exclusively to the Zwift platform, especially given recent Zwift subscription price increases and the appeal of exploring other platforms.
While Zwift has expressed openness to third-party app integration, concrete API access is crucial. Until that materializes, consider carefully if you are committed to the Zwift ecosystem before investing in the Zwift Ride.
Despite this ecosystem lock-in concern, the Zwift Ride is undeniably impressive. It’s a high-quality, competitive smart bike that rivals sub-$3000 models and even some $4000 options. Zwift’s years of development, learning from previous projects like the “Tron Bike,” have resulted in a polished, consumer-focused product. The Zwift Ride is poised to become the default smart bike recommendation for a vast majority of indoor cyclists, offering exceptional value and a compelling Zwift experience.
Thanks for reading!
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