Zwift Ride
Zwift has announced the Ride, a cycling rig that combines a turbo trainer with what Zwift calls its Smart Frame.
Smart bikes that are Zwift-compatible are typically all-in-one solutions, like the Wahoo Kickr Bike. The Zwift Ride separates the trainer and the frame, which should make upgrading and maintenance easier.
“We’re on a mission to make Zwifting easier by reducing the cost and complexity of hardware,” says Zwift CEO Eric Min.
Min also says the Zwift Ride brings “all of the advantages of a smart bike at an incredibly affordable price.”
The Zwift Ride costs $1299. It’s not cheap, but is dramatically cheaper than the $3500 Wahoo Kickr Bike.
Ride combines a Kickr Core turbo trainer, whose price was dropped to $599 in September 2023, with a Zwift Smart Frame.
Is it worth an additional $700? It’s actually more than a simple frame. It includes gamepad-like controls on the handlebars, for gear shifting controls, in-game actions and menu navigation.
As gear shifting is handled virtually, there’s no clunking feel or noise — handy if you want an indoor cycling rig that can be used with as little generated sound as possible.
Virtual shifting was added to the Kickr Core in February 2024.
Other frame features include a rubberised tray near the front for phone or towel storage, and dual bottle cages.
A tablet holder accessory attaches to this front section too. It costs an additional $49.99.
Only one tool, included, is required to put the frame together, dubbed the Zwift Key. And the frame is made to be highly adjustable, so there’s no need for multiple sizes.
To begin, you’ll only be able to buy the Zwift Ride as a combo of the turbo trainer and Zwift Smart Frame. But that will change later this year.
“A frame-only version will be launching in the Autumn, in time for peak trainer season on the Northern Hemisphere. Dates and pricing will be announced at a later date,” Zwift told me.
The Zwift Ride will be available from June 26.
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