Are you interested in Zwift, but aren't sure of what it takes to use and own a Zwifting rig? Well here we go!

What is Zwift
Zwift is a bike trainer "game" that lets you link your trainer to a computer, iPad, iPhone or Apple TV, letting you ride with other cyclists in a virtual environment, thus alleviating the boredom associated with indoor riding. For example when you draft, or go downhill, things get easier. You can ride with friends or strangers; Individuals or scheduled group rides. It also offers structured fitness programs.

There are a number of different indoor training apps available, but Zwift is arguably the most fully featured, and the most popular – reports suggest that over half a million people have signed up for an account by YE 2020.

Typical COW Zwifter
Most of us have tried and hated - rollers, spin classes, and indoor cycling.  I think all of us have said why would I plop down $1,000+ for something I already spent $200 for and disliked.  Every member of the COWs board is now Zwifting and enjoying it. It is fun. It is social (if you want). And it will make you a stronger rider. 

Winter Zwifties Workouts and ZRL Racing

Since 2020 our Winter program has grown.  We ride together on Thursday and Saturday mornings (October-April).  We have as many up to 20 riders during these workouts.  Our Racing teams compete on Tuesdays in all three rounds of ZRL Racing League from September to February.  If interested contact Brian Staiger or Colin DuPlantis.

What it takes
Zwift it the final piece of the puzzle and the most visible. You will need a litany of stuff, including:

Recommendations
Buy a smart, wheel-off trainer like the Wahoo Kickr or the Tacx Neo Smart.  DC Rainmaker has a robust review.

An Apple TV for the "low" end or a low-end desktop gaming computer for the high end. I use my office as my Zwift room. My computer is both my main work computer and my Zwifting rig. I spent $850 on a desktop/monitor combo that does double duty. Here is a bit dated discussion on this topic. 

Cost

Count on around $1,000 for the smart trainer.  $1500 at the high-end and $700 at the lower end (which isn't really the low end, but the mid high-end).  You likely already have a device like an iPad or laptop. Everything else is pretty cheap. Zwift costs $15 per month. 

Zwift On-line Resources

• Zwift Insider - great articles. If you Zwift, you will end up here. 
• YouTube video on starting Zwift by GPLama
• ZwiftHacks - Lots of tools including my favorite group ride finder
• Startup Guide by Bicycling Magazine

FAQ