Zwift has officially launched its much-anticipated indoor bike, the Zwift Ride. This new product combines a Zwift indoor frame with the Wahoo KICKR CORE + Zwift COG trainer, creating a convenient all-in-one option for Zwift enthusiasts. The Zwift Ride represents a significant development in the indoor cycling industry, akin to the impact Zwift had with the Zwift Hub two years ago.
The Zwift Ride offers a glimpse into the evolution of Zwift’s history and direction over the years. Beyond the historical significance, the real test is in the actual riding experience. After testing the Zwift Ride for over a month, both myself and my wife have put it through its paces to evaluate its performance for riders of various heights.
The Zwift Ride consists of two main components – the Wahoo KICKR CORE smart trainer and the Zwift Frame. The Wahoo KICKR CORE features the Zwift Cog, which is a newer version of the trainer, optimized for quieter operation. The Zwift Frame is a single-sized adjustable indoor frame with integrated shifters and Zwift Play controls. While the frame itself is devoid of electronic components, it boasts a stylish design and a single-speed chain system.
In terms of technical specifications, the Zwift Ride is priced at $1299.99 in the US and offers additional features like a tablet holder for $49.99. The frame supports heights ranging from 5′ to 6’6″ and a maximum rider weight of 265 lbs. The KICKR CORE can simulate up to a 16% grade and offers a maximum resistance of 1,800w with an accuracy of +/- 2%.
Assembly of the Zwift Ride is straightforward, taking about 5-7 minutes to set up. The handlebars and seat post can be easily adjusted to accommodate different rider sizes. The Zwift Ride features a bright orange hex wrench that magnetically attaches to the frame for easy access to adjustment points.
When it comes to riding with the Zwift Ride, the experience is akin to that of a smart bike, despite being a two-piece system. The frame offers customization options for saddle and handlebar positions, as well as a flat area for placing a phone. The bike includes two water bottle cages and offers stability during sprints and climbs.
One standout feature of the Zwift Ride is the button-based shifting system, which allows for sequential shifting, SRAM eTAP/AXS-style shifting, and Shimano Di2-style shifting. The handlebars feature game control buttons for in-game functions like changing routes, taking screenshots, and adjusting views.
In terms of connectivity, the Zwift Ride is compatible with ANT+ FE-C, Bluetooth Smart FTMS, and supports multiple concurrent Bluetooth connections. The bike broadcasts power, cadence, and speed data to various devices for a seamless riding experience.
Overall, the Zwift Ride offers a compelling option for indoor cycling enthusiasts looking for a versatile and affordable smart bike setup. With its sleek design, customizable features, and seamless integration with the Zwift platform, the Zwift Ride sets a new standard for indoor cycling equipment.