Zwift Ride smart bike review

The Zwift Ride is a smart bike, but it’s also three separate bits.

It costs $ 1,299.99 , compared to $ 2,549 for the Wattbike Atom or $ 3,199 for the Tacx Neo.

The only downside is that the proprietary virtual gear system is not compatible with rival platforms.

The Zwift Ride frame uses steel tubing, just like other smart bikes.

The frame is sturdy and adopts a chain adjustment system that, unlike a real bike, doesn't lead to you getting oil all over your fingers when you attach the chain to the turbo trainer.

Unlike a Peloton , the Ride does not include a display, so you’ll need some form of screen.

It uses proprietary software, so it won’t work with other platforms like TrainerRoad.

The Zwift Ride is ideal for anyone who wants a smart bike but is put off by the cost.

It has a maximum wattage of 1,800 W rather than 2,000W+ and its maximum simulated including is 16% rather than 20%+ It's a great mid-range model, and unless you're a pro-level cyclist, you won't miss the spec downgrades here much.