Best Indoor Cycling Software Platforms - Zwift, TrainerRoad, Rouvy, Sufferfest, FulGaz, RGT Cycling, Kinomap
Indoor cycling has revolutionized the way cyclists train, compete, and stay fit regardless of the weather or time constraints. With the rise of smart trainers and interactive software, indoor cycling is more engaging and effective than ever. Here’s a comprehensive look at the leading indoor cycling software platforms available as of November 2023.
1. Zwift
Standout Features:
- Massive multiplayer online riding experience
- Wide variety of virtual routes and worlds
- Structured workouts and training plans
- Racing and group ride options
- Integration with Strava and other fitness trackers
Pros:
- Highly social and interactive
- Regularly updated with new features and routes
- Compatible with most smart trainers and devices
- Engaging gamification elements
Cons:
- Requires a relatively powerful computer or device for the best experience
- Subscription cost can add up over time
- Can be crowded, which might not appeal to those looking for a solitary experience
Price: As of my last update, Zwift’s subscription fee was around $14.99/month.
Free Trial: Zwift typically offers a 7-day free trial.
Sign Up Link: Zwift Sign Up
2. TrainerRoad
Standout Features:
- Focus on structured training plans
- Performance analytics
- Calendar and training plan builder
- Extensive workout library
- Adaptive Training that adjusts to your performance and feedback
Pros:
- Science-based training for serious performance gains
- Clean, easy-to-use interface
- Excellent customer support
- Regularly updated with new features
Cons:
- Less interactive and no virtual worlds, which might not be as engaging for some users
- No free-riding option
Price: TrainerRoad is priced at about $19.95/month or $189/year.
Free Trial: There is usually a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Sign Up Link: TrainerRoad Sign Up
3. Rouvy
Standout Features:
- Augmented reality routes
- Video routes of real-world rides
- Career mode to track progress
- Challenges and races
Pros:
- Realistic riding experience with video routes
- Large library of routes
- Compatible with a wide range of trainers
Cons:
- Video quality varies
- Some features might be complex for beginners
Price: Rouvy offers different plans, with the basic around $10/month and the premium around $12/month.
Free Trial: There is a 14-day free trial available.
Sign Up Link: Rouvy Sign Up
4. Sufferfest (now part of Wahoo SYSTM)
Standout Features:
- Comprehensive training library with a focus on ‘suffering’
- Mental toughness program
- Yoga, strength training, and mental training included
- Integration with Wahoo ecosystem
Pros:
- Full training system beyond just cycling
- Engaging content with a sense of humor
- Targeted workouts with a high intensity
Cons:
- May be too intense for some users
- Limited social features compared to platforms like Zwift
Price: Wahoo SYSTM, which includes Sufferfest content, is about $14.99/month or $129/year.
Free Trial: A 14-day free trial is typically offered.
Sign Up Link: Wahoo SYSTM Sign Up
5. FulGaz
Standout Features:
- High-quality 4K video routes
- Realistic ride feel
- Regularly updated content
- Available on multiple devices
Pros:
- One of the most realistic ride experiences with real video footage
- Easy to use
- Offers a variety of riding experiences from around the world
Cons:
- Requires a good internet connection for streaming high-quality videos
- No virtual world or gamification
Price: FulGaz costs around $12.99/month or $108.99/year.
Free Trial: A 14-day free trial is available.
Sign Up Link: FulGaz Sign Up
6. RGT Cycling (Road Grand Tours)
Standout Features:
- Realistic physics and drafting experience
- Free version available with basic features
- Premium routes and events
- Magic Roads feature that allows you to ride any route in the world
Pros:
- Free tier for basic use
- Realistic riding dynamics
- Can create your own routes with GPS data
Cons:
- Smaller community than Zwift
- Some features locked behind the premium version
Price: RGT Cycling offers a free version, and the premium version is around $9.99/month.
Free Trial: The free version is available indefinitely with limited features.
Sign Up Link: RGT Cycling Sign Up
7. Kinomap
Standout Features:
- Thousands of user-generated videos
- Interactive multiplayer sessions
- Fitness tests and structured workouts
Pros:
- Large variety of real-life videos
- Social features for interactive sessions
- Compatible with various types of trainers
Cons:
- User-generated content means video quality can be inconsistent
- Interface is not as modern as competitors
Price: Kinomap offers a subscription for around $9.99/month or $79.99/year.
Free Trial: A 14-day free trial is usually available.
Sign Up Link: Kinomap Sign Up
8. Bkool
Standout Features:
- 3D World technology
- Real weather conditions
- Variety of routes and workouts
- Compatibility with numerous devices
Pros:
- Realistic simulations with changing weather
- Large catalog of routes
- Competitive pricing
Cons:
- Some users report bugs and glitches
- The interface is not as intuitive as some other platforms
Price: Bkool offers a subscription starting at about $9.99/month.
Free Trial: A 30-day free trial is typically available.
Sign Up Link: Bkool Sign Up
Please note that prices and trial offers are subject to change, and it’s always best to check the latest information on the respective websites. Additionally, the experience with each platform can be highly personal and subjective, so it’s recommended to take advantage of free trials to find the software that best suits your training style and preferences.
