Zwift RIDE In-Depth Review // The Best Budget “Smart Bike”?

[@dowroa]

I saw you! I saw him! He didn't think we would... but we did!

[@withdennys]

I saw it too

[@peterv.5086]

I saw him too! 😂

[@bayleeandkincaid]

LOL was that Ray at 2:22??

[@DesFit]

Maybe 😉

[@neilk22]

the jinja-ninja 🥷

[@Roy-ud1db]

Perfect timing. My direto xr just packed up. Considering a KICKR, but for the same price, i can get this. I have two teenagers who want to start indoor training. This setup is perfect git multiple users, don’t have to be faffing about with 3 bikes. Im in.

[@TeoSluga]

Ah, it's not perfect... If you don't like "child-cartoonish-looking" Zwift platform, and you train on a different platform, that's useless...

[@piotrmakowski6400]

@@TeoSluga why?

[@aplanedividedthesky]

@@TeoSluga if you want to bring virtual shifting to other platforms, it's possible using QZ

[@DaveRider719]

@@piotrmakowski6400because you can’t switch the platform if zwift decide to increase the price again. You are doomed to always use zwift with this setup because of virtual shifting

[@GusFromDaysPast]

It's adjustable, which is great. What isn't great is the lack of family subscription plans on Zwift. It's simply a manufacturing convenience, not an end user benefit. For what the frame is, I can't say it's a value for $800. Make it $400, and you'll probably see more subscription revenue.

[@gluon8760]

Nice review , love it. Definitely for my use case , pure indoor volume base for running , it’s just perfect

[@DesFit]

Thanks!

[@Sandi145s]

Nice review. Keep up the good work. I have ordered mine yesterday. Been using smart trainer and my roadie for many years now and I like it a lot. The biggest issue I had was keeping my bike on the trainer too long as the weather lately is really unpredictable. So been using my fully outside and roadie mostly on the trainer. Had enough of that and order a permanent setup now. 😊. Can't wait to get it.

[@barryhambly7711]

Yep just done the same don't want to damage my carbon frame it is quite a load on it when I sprint I just ordered the frame myself as my Kickr v6 is OK with it just needs the cog that comes with it

[@Blacksabbath826]

I was planning on getting a Smart bike this fall once the weather turned I live in NY. However saving a $1000 plus seems like a no brainer so Zwift it is !!!

[@peterv.5086]

The price is totally acceptable. Just don‘t forget to add the €199,- a year subscription fee.

[@Vive_in_Nisu]

I almost love everything from the Zwift Ride, but for me the sound is one of the biggest selling points since I would use it in the living room. Unfortunately it‘s too loud. Maybe they could change the chain to a robust belt in V2

[@davidrowe8747]

I've just taken delivery of my Zwift Ride frame (I already have the Core) and watched your video again prior to set-up. There is one point of which you may be aware, now your video is several months old. Specifically, there is no "special sauce" coating on the chain - it is a standard SRAM (I think) chain with the basic factory grease on it. This was confirmed to me by two Zwift reps who were mystified at where the information came from about a "special lube". This was a few weeks back at the UK Cycling Expo in Birmingham. I couldn't remember at the time where I had seen this information and have only now remembered it was from your video, now I've re-watched it! Anyway, they (the reps) were absolutely sure the lube on the Ride chain is simply factory grease. Personally, I'm a big wax fan so will immersive wax the chain before too long. I've found that even in an indoor environment, wet lube collects house dust and becomes black and greasy just like it does outdoors, only a little more slowly. Maybe I need to clean house more regularly. ;-)

[@kjones9562]

Lover your reviews!!!! I was about to pull the trigger $$ on a KICKR BIKE. now I need to look at this!!!!!!!!!

[@DesFit]

This is certainly worth a look…thanks!

[@zardozica]

Just bought one. Arrives tomorrow, we will see how it goes.

[@bongo3808]

How you getting on with it?

[@rabomarc]

I already have a Kickr Core and actually getting the frame at a roughly half of the price of the full setup would be a compelling alternative for me in place of putting my pride & joy bike on the trainer.

[@Thomas-fy9yc]

No Kickr climb support is a deal breaker, as well as Zwifts prices hikes, I don’t think I want to get locked in unless some competition supports virtual shifting.

[@slapfan1]

Sold!!!! Love the DC cameo 🤣

[@neilk22]

6:25 Des realises the tablet mount is an extra $50, decides it can sit on his shelf 😂 (But at least they supplied flat pedals which are super useful 🤣)

[@lars_atx]

great review. Would love to see an option for belt drive and trainer with silent hub engagement. As add on options of course. Hopefully the Ride frame alone cost is reasonable.

[@wenlambotomy6231]

So close. Two chargers needed (and they don’t even supply the block just then lead!) and a chain and not a belt and set crank length and tablet mount should be included. Would happily pay more for a climb option too.

[@peterv.5086]

Yepp, chain instead of a belt. Why? Tablet holder not included. Why?!

[@DesFit]

They considered all these features but cost was their #1 priority to keep it as financially accessible as possible. I’m sure they’re hearing the feedback for a more premium option in the future.

[@wallaceharvey2574]

Great video. Do you know if this is going to work with the Zwift Hub using their built in cassettes? I have a 10-speed setup with the Zwift click and Play controllers and it works fine - including with virtual shifting. I know it takes tools to swap out the cassette to use the Zwift cog like they have with the wahoo kicker setup. But, I’d prefer not to have to take the cassette off and swap in a Zwift cog if I don’t have to.

[@nalissa77]

Thanks for the review! Looks awesome!

[@DesFit]

Anytime!

[@alexjones9674]

That head bob. I'm dying hahah

[@rcuadro]

I watched the FIT File podcast… your friend’s frame invention may end up being better depending on price but let’s see how that goes

[@dshu1998]

Good reviews as always.

[@DesFit]

Thanks!

[@misterpoppy2845]

I've been asking this on the other reviews but I figure I'll ask here as well. Are the cog and chain ring replaceable? Or will you need to buy a new frame whenever they wear out?

[@murilobossa]

Did you figure it out? Because honestly, I have the same question…

[@misterpoppy2845]

@@murilobossa Nope no response from @DesFit. It's a bit strange that it's so hard to get this information. I will hold off on buying until I know it will be easy to source parts for the cog, and the chain tensioner. I think GPLama mentioned that the chainrings seems to be standard.

[@tmhudg]

@@misterpoppy2845 Yeah, I can't prove it but I'm sure I saw somewhere that the cog is a standard (?) cog that you can easily replace.

[@BillyVerden]

Good Video! I think your review beat out Shane as well as Rays videos! Very informative and objective! You sounded more like an actual rider and less corporate review.. lol. Thanks!

[@DesFit]

I certainly trust their reviews of course but thanks for the kind words!

[@dougaker5433]

I noticed you chose Speedplay pedals for your Zwift Ride. I know any pedal will do, but I thought I might try Speedplay because of their dual-sided entry ease and enhanced walkability indoors both before and after your Zwift workout or ride (what cleat is the least likely to scratch hardwood floors, say). And since weight is not an issue, I'd buy the least expensive pedal in the Speedplay line.

[@alexmarcano6229]

really like this! does the SRAM style shifting drop the chain constantly?

[@tmhudg]

Laughed out loud.

[@miguelsuarez1511]

Great review! Right on!

[@DesFit]

Thanks!

[@Trump345]

Good job Lov the content

[@DesFit]

Thanks!

[@TheTownzFinest]

I like this because I didn’t like having to switch bike between other family members.

[@PedroPrego]

Hope they came up with a more premium v2 where they introduce: (i) quieter chain tensioner; (ii) adjustable crank lenght (paw style); and (iii) front wheel rising (kickr climb or elite rizer). The (iii) for me is the deal breaker. With it I'd be ordering one. Without it I'll just wait and hope something comes up in the future.

[@neilcoles1780]

Best review so far, Does, thanks. I am still not very clear how.the shifting experience is. Is this just a button or it there a simulated clicker like a real bike?

[@DesFit]

They’re physical buttons but not a lever like a real bike

[@VelkejSmoula]

Great review! :) Do you by any chance know if it is compatible with other training apps, such as TrainerRoad? Thanks!

[@DesFit]

Compatible with any other app in ERG mode but not in simulation mode

[@stephenpelly6217]

Thank you for the review. I'm just about to buy one. I think I saw that the chain tensioner is not a cog like you would have on say the rear derailleur of most bikes. Looks like flat plastic. Does it spin or is the chain just rubbing on it?

[@peroxydase14]

Well, despite the very true argument about getting locked into the Zwift ecosystem, I caved and bought a Zwift ride for my Direto.... Received it well, easy assembly, nice look, advantage of being able to adjust it in all directions, pairing with the companion app to update the controllers was easy, then came the moment to try the beast.... and that's where it all went wrong - impossible to connect the controllers to the application... Updated the Zwift application on PC, still not working... tested on my iPad Pro, still not working... Well, problems can always happen, but when you see that at this price point you don't even have a support line and have to submit a ticket hoping for a response :-(

[@txlangster6276]

Purchased the Zwift ride, 1st one arrived damaged in shipping, bike outside of box, dented and scaped. Zwift was very silent regarding return/replacement. Email came saying a replacement bike frame was being sent. 2nd Frame arrived with bent front chain ring. This replacement also appeared to be used bike (paint scrapes). I'll see what happens next. A further comment, Zwift influencers talk about the bike's stability. This replacement bike wobbles too much for my liking.

[@neilk22]

Deal breakers for me - Zwift lockin for gear shifting, chain noise, no tilting compatibility - i dont believe enough is solved over just using a cheap road bike permanently mounted to a Kickr. I also feel there was a missed opportunity to aesthetically improve the overall look of the typical IDT setup i.e make it look less of a bike and more of an ornament you would keep indoors, like the kickr bike.

[@kevincalvey9281]

Well said and all spot on.

[@thicccboyztv]

Well what is solved is having more than one person ride it. Adjustability.

[@marcusstrinidad]

I think target demographic is someone like me - absolute zero experience cycling but wants a low-impact cardio option deciding between peloton or Zwift. So not having a road bike, and not wanting to learn how cassettes, drive trains, etc work… this lowers the barrier of entry substantially for complete beginners looking for a 100% indoor solution. Peloton doesn’t scratch that competitive itch I have when training for boxing. But Zwift seems like it would be a stronger fit.

[@TeoSluga]

It seems like a great idea 👍 however, as I'm currently using Rouvy platform, that's a No Go for me.

[@patrickbaker6978]

If they eventually make the v5 kickr compatible with virtual shifting will the supplied single speed chain work quietly with a normal cassette or would it be better to swap out the chain

[@brianmiller2135]

What do you think about sweating all over the cockpit area? It seems impractical to drape a towel over the controls, so hopefully they have made these controllers well enough to withstand any sweat oxidation.

[@jordyblaauw5040]

It looks very promising, but will wait for the first independent / non-sponsored reviews. Some components look rather low-quality plastic.

[@DesFit]

This is an independent, non sponsored review. I actually held back a bit on my enthusiasm for this product.

[@jordyblaauw5040]

​@@DesFit i'm absolutely not assuming it's a dishonest review or that you're paid by Zwift. But it's common to get loaners or even free products in exchange for a review, which may lead to a difference in criticism compared to when you spend your own hard earned money on it. Of course, I could be completely wrong and maybe you bought it yourself, in which case I'd love to know.

[@nicholasschulz5528]

Thanks for your great review! Maybe a dumb question: but can you use this bike also without the zwift app and „just“ start cycling and use the gear-change to lower or increase the resistance? Like a basic fitness studio bike, where you manually adjust the levels. I want to use the bike with the app, but my gf would like to simply have a ride from time to time and not pay for another zwift account. Thanks!

[@tmhudg]

No, you can't shift the "gears" in any other app but the Zwift app. But, any app that uses ERG mode - where the app controls the resistance of the trainer - will work. So, if you are doing a workout plan in an app and the plan varies the resistance to make it harder or easier (to simulate hills or whatever), it will be fine. It's only a problem if you need/want to ride in manual mode and need to shift gears. Then, it only works in the Zwift app.

[@kiehtan1]

Once they sell the frame by itself to hook up to my Kickr v5, I'm in.

[@tmhudg]

It's available now.

[@pogromcywgniecen4666]

If the set would be compatible with Wahoo Climb, or Elite Rizer. I'd order it right away, and it's just a curiosity. Interesting material, anyway.

[@ipodgolfer13]

Pretty rad if they make it separate since I already own the Zwift hub. Selling the bike that sits on the hub currently too

[@About_Jack]

Hi, thanks for the information about this new frame, do you know if Zwift will give the opportunuity to buy the frame only?

[@Morehills840]

Great review. Thanks.

[@decoherence926]

The Zwift only ecosystem is a deal breaker for me. Was looking to replace my failed Stages Smart bike but no bueno.

[@jamesedwalsh]

awesome vid, will the frame work only with virtual gears ?

[@DesFit]

Virtual shifting in Zwift as well as ERG mode in any platform. Thanks!

[@mikeprytherch8875]

Really like this... except for the crank length, poor choice in my view, should be adjustable

[@gabeg.4583]

Just got the Zwift frame, and paired it with a known-good Kickr v6. Getting a lot of vibrations in the pedals. Have you experience this as well? These are not present when regular bike is mounted.

[@haloavenger]

No adjustable crank lengths?

[@bmiller8461]

Do the shifters/controller appear to be items that, if they got damaged for any reason, could be replaced, or are they permanently fixed to the bike? I'm also curious about any potential maintenance these bikes may require such as chain and bottom bracket replacements.

[@JeyDeee89]

Controllers are on the Handlebar. You can buy it single piece i think. Got this bike yesterday and its nice for me as a beginner.

[@user-ti9zc1xv2b]

Damn; thanks buying right away

[@danawarren5701]

I like the idea of this adjustable frame for my wife and I to use as a training device. We’re not super cyclist so all of the SWIFT integration is confusing. We just want to get on a trainer. Keep our heart rate at a certainsetting and possibly watch TV while we’re training. What would you recommend to accomplish this without getting into all this technical integration?

[@StevenVanCauwenbergh]

Dang you did an amazing job giving us the details and decision making ability. I'm down! Do you know of a release date?

[@DesFit]

Good timing! Available to order today In the US, UK and EU at 8 a.m. PST. Thanks!

[@jameshelm2847]

I am waiting to see someone modify the front post to attach to the Zwift Climb. Without having the frame in front of me, it does seem pretty easy to do.

[@DesFit]

It would require considerable modification with the black portion of the front leg (which is all one piece going to the top) interfering with the Climb, plus the need for two attachments points on the Climb itself

[@jrcp87]

DC Rainmaker in the back 🤣

[@forgibas]

Does anyone know if you can you use the bike trainer without Zwift? E.g. just use this as a kind of spin bike for other cycling classes

[@tmhudg]

You need some sort of app to control the trainer. Any app that has ERG mode - where the app can vary the resistance of the trainer - will work, you just wouldn't be able to shift virtual "gears".

[@lukasmobus3024]

What Lube would you recommend for the chain?

[@joisaiplu]

Hey des ! Thanks for the review, really interesting product for my wife and I, just wonder to know if the product could be used if no zwift subscription ? For example using it for structured workouts and run without zwift, is it possible to vary the resistance or do intervals manually with the bike controls ?

[@DesFit]

The controls only work with Zwift but you can still use the setup with any ERG mode program where the program would control resistance

[@joisaiplu]

@@DesFit ok cool so we will not get an usable device if we decide to stop the zwift subscription, thanks for the answer and the review, really helpful like each time ;)

[@DesFit]

It’s still usable without a Zwift subscription but only with ERG mode platforms such as TrainerRoad where it’s directly controlling the trainer without the need for the controls on the handlebars

[@joisaiplu]

@@DesFit do you think they will provide free subscription with the purchase of the bike?

[@DesFit]

The Ride does not come bundled with a subscription

[@josemanuellopezdona6040]

Is it possible to change and install crank arms of different lengths?

[@patrickorourke152]

Stability is that an issue ? And as the previous person said is it hard to connect to a wide screen Tv ?

[@gregbianchi2689]

How do you connect a large screen TV ?

[@decoherence926]

Apple TV best option.

[@VampireRhino]

is it possible to use zwift frame with other trainers than wahoo? will it work with other apps than zwift for example Tacx training, TrainerRoad, TrainerDay?

[@mrflibble9783]

Is there any info on it's ability to perform as a normal excersize bike without Zwift?

[@lucatoffoli2314]

How hard is the gear of the cog without using Zwift? i.e. if using it without entering zwift, would one be able to pedal?

[@MARIAIRIMIA-b4f]

Can I connect the app simulator to my TV?

[@ImGlossy63]

Has anyone used this on a rocker plate. Any issues or all good?

[@alolsen339]

I wondered about that as well.

[@tysons.]

Those v1 Fresh Foam Zante’s are choice.

[@DesFit]

My last pair that I only wear inside! Good eye! 🙌

[@tysons.]

@@DesFit I’m about to retire my last pair (sadly) in that same color-way. Such a great shoe!

[@jkspcoy]

Ordered the Zwift ride 🤩couldn’t wait 😮it arrived and on set up noticed the front chain ring damaged 😡 contacted Zwift by e mail sent video and was ghosted 👻 so buyer beware

[@energysourcelove]

Does this work well with Garmin (I have a Forerunner 955) in terms of tracking Metrics or is a power meter required . Thanks for the early review.

[@DesFit]

Yup, works perfectly with the 955 where you pair the KICKR Core as a smart trainer to the watch which provides speed, cadence, as well as cycling power.

[@Martin-eu2vu]

Great review, i already have the trainer. Can i buy just the bike ?

[@tmhudg]

Yes, the frame is now available on their site for $800

[@jareou]

I had to send the zwift ride back. Just don't like the feel of it. I use my #2 trek domane sl and it feels better, more realistic considering you are riding indoors on a trainer.

[@daveshreiner1859]

Any opinions on Zwift RIDE versus a Wahoo Kickr Move? I have an old road bide to set-up permanently with the Kickr Move and I am the only biker in my family so the adjustability of the Zwift RIDE is not that important.

[@DesFit]

If you’re the only rider than I’d probably lean towards the Move. The movement can help reduce fatigue on longer rides

[@daveshreiner1859]

@@DesFitthanks!

[@Gentlemans_sport]

why not use belt?

[@DesFit]

Likely cost but I could also see challenges with compatibility. It would require a completely new cog as well.

[@kevincalvey9281]

They already provided a new cog so I agree, belt drive was the way to go here. That’s a big miss in my opinion too.

[@MarkConnolly-x5h]

Hi Is the frame sold separately and is it compatible with a Tacx Neo trainer?

[@DesFit]

No to both, at least at the moment. No idea if and when that could change.

[@korduskarol]

can we use it without connecting it to Zwift app? but only to Garmin watch or Garmin edge? (cadency, power etc?)

[@tmhudg]

You don't technically need to use the Zwift app but you need some sort of app that can control the trainer. I'm certain a Garmin device would not be able to control the trainer.

[@dovilezobielaite5379]

Is it possible to use this set up off app and control the resistance?

[@JeyDeee89]

With the Wahoo App, you can set a specific Watt number.

[@andrewcromie957]

Is it possible to change gearing on the KICKR core without going through the Zwift app? Say for example I am just looking to cycle whilst watching youtube rather than enter a race on Zwift.

[@tmhudg]

No, only the Zwift app can change the virtual gears. But, you could use another app - like Trainer Road for example - set to ERG mode. You could then just set a resistance/power level and the trainer would hold at that resistance.

[@andrewcromie957]

@@tmhudg amazing thanks for your help!

[@MrSzynas]

I'm 192 cm tall. I ride on a 175mm crankset, I don't know how I'll manage now that there's only 170mm? I guess it's better not to buy? Will that be a problem?

[@lammy884]

I'm also 1.92 and have an inside leg length of 94 cm. I ride 170 mm and 175 cranks, no problem with the short ones....

[@martinthain7881]

Compatible with apps like TrainerRoad in ERG?

[@DesFit]

Any ERG mode as well as the virtual shifting in Zwift

[@eamondennehy]

I ordered one last week and got an email with a DPD tracking number. Unfortunately the tracking number is not showing on the system I'm not getting much stasifaction from Zwift in tracking it. All I am getting from them is that it has been shipped and they are looking into it. I would be cautious before ordering. For the record i am in Ireland.

[@DesFit]

Folks have been receiving their bikes so this may just be a rare case of a mistransposed tracking number.

[@benbeelerfitness2595]

Wait so you still have to use the Zwift click? That isn't built into the handlebars?

[@DesFit]

You can also use the Click in addition to the included controllers if one wishes to

[@LoscoeLad]

Is that frame plastic? don't need that for an extra 700. TIf plastic, 75 usd max. 700 would help me 50|% to a new chinese frameset

[@DesFit]

Could be beneficial to watch the video where I went over the frame materials

[@DaveRider719]

If you buy this it’s necessary to consider that you are forced to use zwift with this setup. Kickr bike is expensive but you can switch the platform whenever you want.

[@tmhudg]

Technically, that's not true. You can use the bike without Zwift but you do need to use some app to control the trainer in ERG mode.

[@DaveRider719]

@@tmhudg I mean the simulation mode not ERG. You are not able to use the virtual shifting of this setup on another plattform. ERG you can use on any other plattform but I am pretty sure you also want to race or use group and free rides on indievelo or mywhoosh if you want to.

[@fringelunatic]

I have a Tacx trainer. 😢 Too bad it doesn't work with all smart trainers. I think that was a mistake.

[@simonhughes3871]

Would a belt drive not have been even better?

[@DesFit]

Would have added cost. They were trying to keep the price as low as possible.

[@splaterpus23]

Do you think they'd have an end of year sale?

[@oldtwinsna8347]

I would guess discounts will roll around as they can afford it to be a loss leader since the e-shifters are tied to the platform. Initially they are keeping it at a price where some profit can be driven and sold to already-existing userbase.

[@michaelcleveland98]

Sadly, the 'economy' kind of goes out the door if you don't have one of the few compatible trainers. In my opinion, they really missed by not having any provision for a der. mount to use on all the other trainers on the market.

[@chrisbenten9971]

Not using a belt drive is a miss...IMO

[@DesFit]

That would have increased cost which was a big goal with the Ride to keep it as accessible as possible

[@galenkehler]

Out of curiosity, how wide is the top tube? (for those of us with thighs) 😂

[@MarkRichardson-y7k]

Bonita Prairie

[@miguel5816]

someone knows if this bike is compatible with rouvy and if i can change gears in rouvy with her?

[@DesFit]

No, it’s not compatible in that way

[@miguel5816]

@@DesFit you can say me if you know one bike that works with zwift and rouvy include gear change

[@DesFit]

@miguel5816 a KICKR bike, KICKR bike Shift, or Tacx Neo Bike

[@miguel5816]

@@DesFit zycle 2.0 work?

[@glanci82]

it doesn't include clips pedals???

[@DesFit]

Pedals are a very personal choice for most cyclists so generally better to just include basic pedals to get set up and one can install their preference since there are many options out there.

[@frankhugh2052]

Virtually silent!?

[@Doooooooooooood]

Is that front end stable?

[@DesFit]

Totally, if you think about it, a front wheel is actually less stable on a traditional bike

[@drakezen]

It's not light, so it's not recommended if you need to move it around a lot

[@lukefarren3409]

That chain tensioner is going to cost watts..

[@DesFit]

100% the reason I lose Zwift races

[@anthonysestito]

Didn't you just chat about a product idea this on the last pod?!

[@DesFit]

Yup, same concept but slightly different product. More details next week

[@IamSaltzz]

Rest assured , you are not the only person on Rp901s in 2024.