The Zwift Hub One is available in stores from today. The new smart trainer is designed to make it easier to get started with indoor cycling training.
What distinguishes the new Zwift Hub One from the previous Zwift Hub?
The main difference between the new Zwift Hub One and the original hub is the Zwift Cog. This special sprocket makes the new Zwift Smart Trainer compatible with almost all bikes with 8- to 12-speed drivetrains. Thanks to the design of the Zwift Cog, dropping the chain is a thing of the past - the lateral design ensures that the chain stays in place.
What distinguishes the Zwift Hub One from other direct drive smart trainers?
As with the first version of the Zwift Hub, suitable cassettes must also be fitted to other Smart trainers with direct drive. This is problematic if the trainer is used with different bikes. The cassette then has to be changed again and again. This is not the case with the Zwift Hub One. The "one cog fits most" principle applies here - one sprocket fits (almost) everything.
How do you shift gears on the Zwift Hub One - there is only one sprocket?
A single sprocket does not mean that you can only ride the Zwift Hub One in single-speed mode. On the contrary, shifting is virtual. We have seen this type of shifting before on smart bikes and now it is also affordable for those who don't want to spend so much.
The virtual gearstick is operated using the Zwift Click supplied, which is simply attached to the handlebars with two rubber O-rings, regardless of whether it is a road bike, mountain bike or time trial machine. The plus and minus buttons are used to shift up or down. With 24 gears, the Zwift Hub One offers enough finely graduated options to master any Zwift terrain.
What are the advantages of virtual switching?
Today's smart trainers are so quiet that most of the noise comes from the bicycle drive. The use of virtual gears reduces most of this noise. This allows the other residents of the house to relax while one person enjoys themselves in the virtual world of Watopia.
The "real gear ratio calibration" ensures uniformity between different bikes. In the first few seconds of each ride, the gear ratio is automatically calibrated by the trainer recording the gear ratios on the bike. In addition to the benefits for riders with multiple bikes, this calibration also offers advantages for riders with smaller chainrings, as is common on gravel and mountain bikes. In plain language, this means that thanks to this calibration, riders do not have to ride at exceptionally high cadences on flat terrain or downhill sections.
Which bikes is the Zwift Hub One suitable for?
Following on from the answer to the previous question, we will now look at the compatibility of the Zwift Hub One. The Smart Trainer is suitable for bikes with 8- to 12-speed drivetrains. The new Zwift Hub One Smart Trainer can therefore be used with a wide range of bikes and, thanks to the calibration, offers a comparable riding experience on all of them.
How much does the Zwift Hub One cost?
599 Euro
I already have a Zwift Hub, can I upgrade to virtual switching?
Yes, an upgrade package is available for purchase. The package consists of a pinion and shift knob. The existing Zwift hub can then be retrofitted with the Zwift Cog. The Zwift Cog is already installed on a freewheel hub and can be installed on the Smart Trainer using the tool supplied with the Zwift Hub. The upgrade package will be available for 59.99 euros at the market launch of the Zwift Hub One. Later it will cost 79.99 euros.
Is switching possible with Zwift Play controllers?
Yes, the virtual gearstick can also be operated using the buttons on the side of the Play Controllers. In addition, the Zwift Play Controllers offer improved game navigation and steering and braking control.
A practical feature is that Zwift Play and Zwift Click can be paired with Zwift at the same time, so you can switch from several positions on the handlebars. But beware: Zwift Play is only compatible with dropbar handlebars. The Zwift Play Controller cost 99 euros and are available at zwift.com.
Will the Zwift Hub still be available?
Zwift Hub, with a choice of traditional 8- to 12-speed cassettes, will continue to be sold under the new name Zwift Hub Classic. Both trainers cost €599 and include a one-year Zwift membership. Both are available directly from Zwift.
Advantages and disadvantages of the first generation Zwift Hub
Our sister magazine TOUR has tested the Zwift Hub 2022 in detail. We have summarised the advantages and disadvantages of this comparatively inexpensive smart trainer here.
Advantages of the Zwift Hub One
- Price
- Good driving experience
- Quiet
Disadvantages of the Zwift roller trainer
- Fluctuating performance values
- not foldable
- No carrying handle
Sandra Schuberth
Editor
