Compatible Trainers
The bike trainer is a key part of your Zwift setup. Not only does the trainer allow you to ride your bike indoors while you're using Zwift, but the trainer can also talk to Zwift over Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) or ANT+ and even adjust your resistance automatically—so you can really feel those hills! Needless to say, picking your trainer is a crucial step. For the best experience, you'll want a trainer that does the following:
| Feature | Definition |
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| Transmits Power Data over Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) | When your trainer transmits power data, it can tell Zwift how much power (measured in Watts) you're putting into the bike. This measures your output when you're riding or doing a workout. Your trainer must be paired over Bluetooth to access virtual shifting. |
| Controls Resistance | When your trainer controls resistance, you'll feel the route you're riding—we call this SIM mode; if there's an uphill, it'll get harder to pedal—it also sets your resistance to a specific wattage target based on your cadence when you're doing a workout—we call this ERG mode. |
| Transmits Cadence | When your trainer transmits cadence, it tells Zwift know how quickly you're pedaling while you ride or workout. |
| Zwift Ready or Zwift Cog Compatible | Zwift Ready and Zwift Cog Compatible trainers support virtual shifting on Zwift and are compatible with Zwift products, including Zwift Cog, Zwift Click, Zwift Play, and Zwift Ride Smart Frame. |
Types of Trainer
While we recommend a trainer that does all of the above, don't worry if your trainer doesn't do everything, you still have some options to find a setup that matches your budget and needs. To help you out, we've outlined the types of trainers below:
Direct Drive Trainers
A direct drive trainer will help you get the most out of Zwift. Direct drive trainers transmit power data and most—but not all—control resistance. With a direct drive trainer you'll take the back wheel off your bike and mount your bike on the trainer. The following manufacturers make direct drive trainers that are compatible with Zwift:
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Wheel-on Trainers
A wheel-on trainer is a good entry-level choice. Wheel-on trainers range from trainers that don't transmit any data to trainers that transmit data and control resistance. If your wheel-on trainer doesn't have built-in sensors that transmit power, you may be able to add a compatible power meter. If your wheel-on trainer doesn't have built-in sensors that transmit speed or cadence, you may be able to add a compatible speed and/or cadence sensor. With a wheel-on trainer, you'll mount the rear wheel of your bike on the trainer. The following manufacturers make wheel-on trainers that are compatible with Zwift:
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Rollers
While many people find them difficult—or even impossible—to use, rollers are a great way to work on your bike handling skills while Zwifting. When paired with a power meter, any classic set of rollers should work on Zwift. A “smart” roller will provide a more immersive experience. All compatible smart rollers will transmit power data, with some even controlling resistance. The following manufacturers make rollers that are compatible with Zwift:
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Indoor Bikes
There's a huge variety of different indoor bikes available, while many don't have built-in sensors or transmit power, you can still use them on Zwift by adding a power meter. The following manufacturers make indoor bikes that are compatible with Zwift:
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Ride On.
-The Team at Zwift
