General Overview

What You Need to Ride

Want to join the action on Zwift? You’ll need a bike, trainer, and device to run the Zwift app. Learn how to get started with the largest indoor virtual training community on the planet.

  1. You’ll need a bike, trainer, and device to run the Zwift app. 
  2. Most Zwifters use road bikes—but mountain bikes, hybrids, and smart bikes work, too. 
  3. You’ll also need a trainer. There are two types of trainers: smart and classic. 
  4. A classic trainer is a great, inexpensive option that’s easy to set up and use. Selecting a classic trainer means you’ll need a speed sensor, too. For more info on setting up a classic trainer, check out this video.
  5. If you have a heart rate monitor, cadence sensor or power meter, that’s even better! You’ll get more performance stats to level up your training.
  6. A smart trainer adds a whole new dimension to Zwift, automatically changing the resistance to mimic the road you’re on. When the grade in Zwift increases, the resistance also increases. When you’re heading downhill, pedaling is easier. When you are drafting, you don’t have to pedal as hard. 
  7. Smart trainers also measure your power, a convenient and cost-saving bonus. Individual power meters often cost $1,000 or more. Meters are considered to be one of the best tools for improving your cycling performance, and smart trainers provide this data. 
  8. You’ve got your bike and trainer. Now you need a device to run Zwift on. Zwift is an app that works on most newer PCs and Macs, most iPhones, iPads, and Apple TVs that are 4th generation or later, as well as Android tablets and phones. Check out our video on compatible devices for more specifics. 
  9. Ready to download the free Zwift app? Visit Zwift.com, the Apple App Store, or the Google Play Store. You can sign up for a 14-day free trial and give Zwift a spin.
  10. Remember to get yourself a powerful fan—you’re going to need it!