Game optics for roller training

Game optics for roller trainingPhoto: Konstantin Rohé
Game optics for roller training

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Virtual worlds, legendary pass transitions and animated groups: Software for indoor training on the roller is developing rapidly. An overview of the leading providers.

BKOOL

The Bkool software scores particularly highly with its many passes and upload function.Photo: HerstellerThe Bkool software scores particularly highly with its many passes and upload function.

The Spanish company no longer manufactures roller trainers itself, but has been focussing exclusively on its software platform since summer 2020. Bkool users can upload GPX data, which the Bkool software then converts into an animated race track. There are many routes - especially mountain passes and courses from famous road races - that can be recreated as 3D animations, videos or on a map. Although the 3D graphics have improved recently, they are much less varied and detailed than those of the competition. There is still room for improvement when it comes to group rides or interaction with other drivers. There was an update in November 2020. Since then, a tidier menu with a filter function has made it easier to search for routes. Bkool offers a total of eight million routes. In addition, the route editor for uploading your own routes has been simplified and you can earn the outfits of the UCI World Tour teams. You can read more about Bkool here at TOUR-Magazin

RGT Cycling

The big plus points of RGT: the very realistic driving behaviour and the detailed animation.Photo: Konstantin RohéThe big plus points of RGT: the very realistic driving behaviour and the detailed animation.

The greatest possible realism is the declared aim of RGT Cycling, which first appeared on the indoor training software market in 2018 as "Road Grand Tours". Thanks to a relaunch, RGT is now one step ahead in terms of realistic cycling dynamics. No other software calculates the gradient, bends and slipstream so consistently and comprehensibly in the speed calculation. RGT now has eight different tracks (Real Roads), such as Cap Formentor on Mallorca or the legendary Passo Stelvio. However, the Magic Roads upload function makes it possible to upload your own GPS tracks and then ride them virtually - whether alone or as a group ride. A little awkward: you need the desktop programme and the RGT smartphone app to use it. >> Read more about RGT Cycling here at TOUR-Magazin

  • Price: free of charge or 8.99 euros per month for the premium version
  • Info: www.rgtcycling.com

A large selection of roller trainers is available, for example, from Rosebikes

Rouvy

The variety of routes is a plus point for Rouvy.Photo: HerstellerThe variety of routes is a plus point for Rouvy.
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During the coronavirus lockdown in spring 2020, more than 1,500 amateur cyclists took part in the virtual Eschborn-Frankfurt cycling classic on Rouvy. The Czech software combines filmed sequences with animated 3D riders. Visually, Rouvy lags behind Zwift or RGT Cycling. On the other hand, the software scores with a wide variety of routes, which can be particularly interesting for frequent riders. Bluetooth communication between the software and smart trainer is not as smooth and has a negative effect on the most realistic riding dynamics possible.

  • Price: 12 euros per month for a family account (three accesses)
  • Info: www.rouvy.com

Zwift

On no other platform will you find as many like-minded people as on Zwift. You almost never drive alone through the ten virtual, animated worlds.Photo: HerstellerOn no other platform will you find as many like-minded people as on Zwift. You almost never drive alone through the ten virtual, animated worlds.

The US company is the largest and best-known provider of indoor training and has grown strongly in recent years. Zwift offers ten different virtual, animated worlds with 74 routes. In 2020, Mont Ventoux and Champs-Élysées were added, for example. You can take part in virtual group rides, complete special training plans or take part in races practically every day. For bikers, Zwift offers a special MTB route, the Repack Ridge Trail. More Off-road routes are to be added, however, according to Zwift. In December 2020, the UCI World Championships in E-Racing will take place on Zwift for the first time. The reward system (bikes, clothing, tracks) encourages regular sessions on the roller. Overall, the software is reminiscent of current gaming products and impresses with its successful gaming dynamics. >> You can read more about Zwift here at TOUR-Magazin

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