All cyclists who are interested in roller trainers will have heard of Zwift. However, the app is by no means the only software that has been specially programmed for indoor cycling. With MyWhoosh, a new, previously free competitor has entered the scene and is aiming to replace Zwift as the market leader. Not all cyclists need gamification and the simulation of virtual worlds for roller training. If you want to do without the frippery, you should take a closer look at IcTrainer's affordable offer. The BKool app is known for its variety of routes. There are new options every day. Competitor Rouvy advertises with a unique look and also wants to attract racing drivers. Of course, established hardware manufacturers such as Elite, Tacx (Garmin) and Wahoo also have their own apps. Here, however, we take a look at the five most exciting software providers for simulation and training control in roller training.
Rising star: MyWhoosh
That MyWhoosh, the title sponsor of the 2024 Cycling E-Sports World Championships The fact that the platform currently offers its app free of charge and without any subscription models may come as a surprise. In fact, the platform is financed from the United Arab Emirates and its founder is an ambitious cyclist himself. However, users must expect to see in-game adverts on the roadside. There are a total of 75 different routes to choose from in ten virtual theme worlds. From 50-kilometre-long flat stages to over 1600 metres of climbing in one go, everything is included. One new feature, for example, is a simulation of the road cycling world championship course in Switzerland. Switching between day and night mode should make the animation even more detailed. Neon wheels are now also available to customise the avatar bike. Races are available at amateur and professional level.
Community classic: Zwift
Watopia, probably the best-known virtual training world on the planet, celebrated its tenth anniversary this year. Zwift has already recorded over 8.7 billion kilometres ridden and over four million events organised by the highly committed community. You never train alone on Zwift. The Californian company is treating its international users to additional routes and races in a total of 12 worlds to mark its anniversary. The colourful animation is also known for quirky courses with a gaming look, such as on the seabed or in a volcanic crater. There are even a few MTB courses with a steering function to choose from. Of course, training plans and workouts are also available. The avatar can be fully customised, from socks to glasses. Zwift also offers a running simulation. The monthly membership costs 19.99 euros.
Back to the basics: IcTrainer
With all the squeaky video game character of the competition, the reduced app IcTrainer is something for role purists and is very affordable at 1.96 euros per month. Gamification in a virtual world is something you won't find here. Instead, the focus is clearly on training with large data displays. Nevertheless, an altitude profile can be simulated via GPX import, for example, for targeted race preparation. Recordings of real road courses and integrated music and video streaming provide distraction. Can also be used offline and with a licence by several athletes.
Diversity is key: BKool
With the Spanish company BKool, you can choose from a virtual animation or millions of routes from the real world. The variety of routes can be an argument for frequent cyclists: from MTB adventures in the Andes to tours through mountain passes and 3D road races, such as the Tour of Germany, through to velodrome competitions and guided indoor cycling courses, the choice is huge. Thanks to structured training plans and customisable workouts, there is also plenty of freedom when it comes to training management. At 11 euros per month, BKool ranks in the mid-range.
Independent: Rouvy
During the coronavirus pandemic, the Czech provider Rouvy attracted a great deal of attention through partnerships with well-known professional events. In the 3D simulation, Rouvy relies on an independent look with more photorealistic motifs. Alternatively, you can switch to 2D video. The journey can take you from Mallorca to Vietnam to New Zealand. Currently, 15 gravel and off-road courses are also included. The training plans also include some MTB-specific suggestions. Price: 12.42 euros per month.
Jan Timmermann
Editor
