The Zwift Hub indeed boasts some impressive figures, not least of which is the price. And now you get to benefit from all that hard work. Thanks to the smart trainer's automatic resistance you'll feel every climb and descent while the built-in power meter levels up your training. Overall, Id say the Hub has a smooth, responsive feel on par with other direct-drive trainers with smaller flywheels such as the Wahoo KICKR Core or Elite Suito. This will in turn force other trainer manufacturers to up their games! Its practically idiot-proof. You might call them cogs, sprockets or gears. Other sources within Zwift tell me Zwifts hardware team is working hand in hand with JetBlacks to continue improving the firmware for the Hub and the Volt, and that this firmware team actually works quite effectively since their timezone differences mean the teams are essentially working around the clock. You'll still be able to create your free account and begin your 14 day trial after setting up financing and check-out. Noise, or rather a lack of it, is an area where the Zwift Hub particularly impresses. The assembly process for most smart trainers is fairly simple; bolt everything together, fit the correct axle adaptors, add a cassette, mount your bike on it and plug it in. Even if you dont move your Zwift Hub, you should calibrate monthly. Sale - Zwift Sale Home Sale Holiday Gift Guide Gifts that make a Zwifter move. The colour-coded parts easily match up to each other, leaving little room for confusion. Thanks to the smart trainer's automatic resistance you'll feel every climb and descent while the built-in power meter levels up your training. You can see this accuracy drift in this dual recording where I started cold and held 200W in ERG mode for 25 minutes. Speed, distance, cadence, and power are wirelessly transmitted via Bluetooth or ANT+. Zwift Hub Firmware Release Notes To get the most out of your Zwift Hub please ensure youre always using the latest firmware Chec Zwift Hub Firmware Release Notes Zwift Hubs automatic resistance realistically matches the gradient of the virtual road. Zwift Hub opens up the world of Zwift. And as of today it is available for purchase at zwift.com for customers in the EU, UK, and USA. (Thats compared to other trainers Ive ridden, including the Tacx NEO line, Wahoo KICKR Bike, Saris H-series, Elite Suito, and various wheel-on trainers.). The Hubs most attractive feature is its price. Mounting Your Bike On the Zwift Hub Now that your Zwift Hub is set up follow these steps to get your bike on the trainer Always c Customers in Australia and New Zealand might have a look at the new JetBlack Volt, which is selling for the same price as the Hub. It cant come soon enough, in my opinion. 8, 9, 10, & 11-speed with 1128 tooth, Zwift reserves the right to enforce an order quantity limit of no more than 3 units per customer, We offer a 30-day return policy on all products, Items should be in like new condition and returned in original packaging. This is why temperature compensation is so important in smart trainers. I take 10-15 minutes to warm up so its not that big of a deal to me, but it is a minor annoyance. If it doesn't, try shifting your gears until it does. Zwift Hub can be used as a Bluetooth bridge for your heart rate monitor, saving on the number of Bluetooth connections. They're not giving any firm delivery dates, but I would guess we'll see it before the year is out. Leg installation is easily done with the included wrench: two nuts+bolts for each leg (and theyre color-coded so you know which leg goes where). We recommend calibrating your Zwift Hub after unboxing or moving the unit. That is, if the intervals change within, say, 2-4 seconds, this feels good to most people. This is a win for Zwift as well, because the feel of a direct-drive trainer is so much better than a wheel-on. 2. Its $499USD price point garnered much attention, but how well does it actually work? If you put the legs on the wrong way round, youll see a little warning sign letting you know. Testing the Hub in ERG mode, I noticed the power was remarkably steady. This is a nice feature in particular situations: Pairing is easy via the Companion app. Based on the performance Ive seen in my tests, I would happily recommend the Hub to anyone looking for a budget-friendly smart trainer. From Iowa to Dnia via Watopia with Zwift Academy finalist Liz van Houweling, Wahoo X just got interesting: smart trainer and virtual world for $29/month, Wahoo is suing Zwift for patent infringement, Meta seems to have some ideas about the future of cycling. Zwift Hub Grinding Zwift Shop Zwift Hardware browneye253 (Paul) October 8, 2022, 4:15am #1 Received my hub today and went through the setup following the manual and eventually watched the videos as well. The Zwift Hub costs 449 / 499 / $499 and offers a simple and cost-effective way to get online. This community-driven site is maintained by Eric Schlange and a team of Zwift enthusiasts. Even if you dont move your Zwift Hub, you should calibrate monthly. THE SMART TRAINER CUSTOMIZED FOR YOU AND YOUR RIDE. The cassette you select at checkout comes pre-installed, so the only work to be done is installing the two legs and your choice of axle adapter. Thats right at the low end of the price spectrum. So zwift have brought a trainer to market that increases your power by up to 8% and sprint by 6%! Please ride your trainer for at least 10 minutes before completing a spin down. Like most smart trainers at this price point, the Zwift Hub isnt flawless, but it offers exceptional performance in many areas and is highly competitive in terms of price. It has specs that compete with trainers costing significantly more, and delivers excellent performance in key areas such as ease of setup, ride feel and noise levels. Once you do that, youll be ready to Zwift. This video covers the key steps to get your Zwift Hub set up. Ive been thinking of upgrading to something newer and quieter. There are two types of axles: Quick Release and Thru-axles. Using the new Hardware section of the app, you can check and update the firmware as required and pair an ANT+ or Bluetooth heart rate monitor with the Zwift Hub. Not too sharp, not too soft. Heres my deep dive into all things Zwift Hub! When placing an order for a Zwift Hub, youll also be given the choice of an 8-, 9-, 10-, 11- or 12-speed Shimano HG cassette, which will then be installed on the trainer before it ships. Need help choosing the right cassette? As is common with smart trainers at this price point, the power and cadence data has a few small quirks. What about the warranty? Zwift Hub opens up the world of Zwift. Theyre not giving any firm delivery dates, but I would guess well see it before the year is out. Your choice of cassette then arrives, pre-installed, on your Hub. The Hub, Zwift's first smart trainer, was announced on September 6. . Wahoo alleges that . Youll need a Zwift account and the Zwift Companion app in order to access these functions, but Zwift has confirmed an active subscription to the game is not required. Transmits measured data using both Bluetooth FTMS and Ant+ FEC, Accepts control data using either of Bluetooth FTMS or ANT+ FE-C, Product dimensions: 19.5 in L x 24 in W x 18.1 in H, Wheel size compatibility: 650c, 700c, 24", 26", 27.5", 29", Power requirements: 100-240 V, 1.5 A, 50 Hz-60 Hz, Included cassette gear ratios: 12-Speed with 11-30 tooth Most of the time, this isnt too much of a problem. The announcement of the Zwift Hub is sure to stir up the broader trainer market. Save 25% off the shop price + get a Nukeproof Sam Hill Enduro Saddle Oil Slick worth 79.99. Over-tightening adapters may cause damage. I currently own an original Wahoo Kickr which I primarily use November through April. v1.32.0 PrivacyOpens a new window / LegalOpens a new window / TermsOpens a new window. Spindown calibration is easy from within the Zwift app just bring up the pairing screen and click the wrench in the Power Source box. Easy onboarding and setup are all well and good, but were intrigued to see if the trainer stacks up as an actual trainer. Holiday Gift Guide. Want to protect your floor? While experienced cyclists often own the tools needed to swap cassettes, certainly a huge swath of riders do not own such tools and have no interest in buying or using them. Im on the lighter side at 150lbs and would say Im not an overly aggressive ride while on the trainer. Unbox, unlock virtual worlds, and crush your fitness goals. Its typically the right side of the bike. Zwift Hub can be ordered with an 8, 9, 10, 11 or 12-speed cassette. Even without those improvements, though, the Zwift Hub is arguably a class leader in its price bracket. Financing can only be used for Products. I found it reads around 5% low when warming up. The Hub trainer is focused on lowering the barrier to entry to Zwift, both financially and technically. Sign up to get the latest on sales, new releases and more , 2022 Zwift, Inc. All rights reserved. Although the Zwift Hub is clearly intended to serve as an easy entry point for Zwift, youre under no obligation to use it in that way. My bike has a 1x12 SRAM AXS Rival eTap drivetrain which is not organically supported by the different cassette choices offered by Zwift, so I choose . Additionally, if you have any Hub-related comments or questions, please share below. (The same happens with cold-calibrated wheel-on trainers, by the way.) Most smart trainers simply come with a box full of unlabelled parts, and if a printed manual is included, its often tricky to follow. Everything you need to know about the new Zwift Hub smart trainer, from the tech specs to the ride feel, to how well it works, and whether it works with apps. Welcome to your new Zwift Hub. 137. (Right now the only integration Im seeing in game is a custom Hub trainer graphic when you pair the Hub in the pairing screen): Companion now includes a Zwift Hardware section under More. Is it more feasible to switch out the cassette or get a different chain? The Hub comes double-boxed like most decent trainers. That is, auto calibration could function in a way that ensures acceptable power accuracy, instead of the current situation which allows the possibility of a cold spindown leading to out-of-spec accuracy. Before you start Zwifting, please calibrate your Zwift Hub. If the interval changes within 1 second it feels too abrupt and rips your knees out, and if it changes over 6+ seconds you end up not earning a star for your 10s sprint intervals. The Hub is very quiet, which is a good thing as low noise is par for the course with direct drive trainers these days. Do you see a warning triangle icon on the feet? The Hub reads low for your first ~5 minutes of riding when starting cold. The trainer takes the place of a bikes hub, hence the Zwift Hub name, which is not to be confused with Zwift progress tracking online app ZwiftHub. It sounds like auto calibration is coming to the Hub anyway (which is an awesome feature on a $500 trainer), so this wont even be an issue soon (and hopefully not Zoon). Thanks! Some riders love the smoothness, while others prefer seeing more jumpy, less smoothed, more instantaneous numbers. To sum up the power accuracy discussion: while it overshoots a bit in sprints, if you calibrate your Hub after warming it up for 10+ minutes, average power accuracy should be well within spec. What youre seeing is me reaching the limit of the Hubs braking power. In this last setup video well cover how to update your firmware and pair your Zwift Hub. If you require a different number of speeds, gear ranges, or use SRAM XD / XDR, you can order your Zwift Hub with no cassette, no sweat. But I always disable it when testing trainers. Setup and 25km ride in the bag and I have to say its a real step up from wheel on Wahoo Kickr snap trainer. Because of the temperature compensation issue, the trainer is susceptible to inaccurate spindowns depending on the temperature of the unit when the spindown calibration occurs. Girlfriend got hers as soon as it was available. Mac/PC/iOS/Android users: download Zwift at zwift.com. We recommend calibrating your Zwift Hub after unboxing or moving the unit. The Hub can pair to an ANT+ HRM and rebroadcast your heartrate through the Hubs Bluetooth channel. You can see the results were the same as my first test the Hub simply isnt able to generate enough resistance at very slow flywheel speeds to bring me up to the target wattage. Together the group of them at the center of your bikes back wheel is called a cassette. This may seem like a small thing, but while most direct-drive trainers offer built-in cadence sensing nowadays, some still dont get it right. Some potential Hub customers have asked: who will provide trainer support? As with many smart trainers, theres an option in-game to perform a spin-down calibration on the Zwift Hub, to help improve power-data accuracy. While I dont ever expect the Hub to perform as accurately as top trainers such as the Tacx NEO 2T or Wahoo KICKR (which cost 2-3x more), I do believe forthcoming firmware revisions will improve accuracy so the Hub is consistently within its +/-2.5% accuracy spec. The . A front-wheel riser block isnt included, although using one isnt required, because its designed for bikes to sit level without one. Try for free. And it comes with a pre-installed cassette to match the gears on your bike, which you choose at checkout. Some relatively simple things, actually. Their firmware team will be working to fix these niggles for sure. Zwift currently doesn't sell the trainers in any other markets at this time except the US and Europe. Its also worth noting the Zwift Hub is fully compatible with other indoor cycling apps, such as Wahoo SYSTM, Wahoo RGT, Rouvy or TrainerRoad. Climbing Alpe du Zwift showed no accuracy issues arising from heat build up. For the $499 Zwift Hub price tag, Zwift is offering/claiming +/-2.5% accuracy, 1800watt/16% incline maximums, and both ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity. I always (well, almost always) warm up more than 10 minutes before participating in any race. |, USD $499.00 This matches the Kickr Core and betters the Tacx Flux S by some margin. Hoping to use it throughout the winter to save my road bike from all the wear-and-tear winter puts on it (not using my good bike on the trainer), Got mine yesterday. This is another preference thing, not a good or bad feature. Align the chain with the smallest cog on the cassette and lower onto the skewer. Here youll find videos and illustrated guides that take you through the steps to get set up and start Zwifting. Simon also makes regular appearances on the BikeRadar Podcast and BikeRadars YouTube channel. . He lives in Northern California with his beautiful wife, two kids and dog. Zwift Insider makes a small commission on purchases made from these links, so please shop through them to support our efforts. Use an Allen key or the lever on your skewer to tighten it according to the frame manufacturers specifications. Removing Your Bike From the Zwift Hub Follow these steps to remove your bike from the Zwift Hub depending on if your bike has a quick release or thru axle Hopefully Zwift can fine-tune the firmware to reduce temperature-related accuracy drift and improve calibration accuracy as well. my final 15s sprint on a recent ZRacing Park Perimeter race: click to drill down into the data on ZwiftPower, Zwift Update Version 1.32.0 (106182) Released, Zwift Racing League Week 6 Guide: Richmond Cobbled Climbs, Team Fearless 6th Annual Womens Team Championships this Weekend, Cassette: included (customers select from 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12-speed), Axle Compatability: 142/148 thru axle + 130/135mm QR, HRM Bridge: the Hub can pair with your HRM and rebroadcast it via Bluetooth, Dimensions: 19.5 in L x 24 in W x 18.1 in H. AppleTV users who have a limited number of Bluetooth devices they can connect. As a person of little physical talent, he has a keen interest in any tech which can help him ride faster and is obsessed with the tiniest details. Zwift is offering a 1-year warranty on the Hub to US customers, and a 2-year warranty to customers in the EU and UK due to different trading laws. Before removing your rear wheel, shift to the smallest cog on the cassette. Make sure theres enough room for your bike, getting on and off the bike, the Zwift Hub, and the device youre using to Zwift. This is the perfect trainer for Zwift racing! And youre sort of right, even if youre a terrible person. The Zwift Hub falls short of perfection, but it nevertheless offers a lot of smart trainer for the money, especially when factoring in the inclusion of a cassette of your choice. Whatever part of the template fits in between the dropouts is your axle type. Once youve set up your trainer, and powered it on, check for a firmware update and update if available. All good numbers. Using the wrench provided, remove the quick release adapter on the drive side of the trainer. You can see the first two are pretty good, but the last one was way under the target mark, barely breaking the 500W mark. Zwift says support will be handled through Zwifts customer service channels. For more information on how to update your firmware, visit zwift.com/hub/support. On the drive side of the trainer, the quick release adapter comes pre-installed on the trainer. (These are the three areas Zwift supports in terms of e-commerce. Check out our. My Wife will be cursing Zwift! For more information on how to update your firmware, visit zwift.com/hub/support. ha ha. Put them in a bowl if you have one handy (bonus points for magnetic bowls) and attach the legs. Its been four months since Zwift announced plans to dramatically scale back its hardware development, but today the virtual fitness giant unveiled its first real-world, hardware product in the form of a new direct drive trainer called Zwift Hub. Its also a winner in terms of user-friendliness thanks to simple setup guides and custom cassette options when purchasing. Assemble your non-drive side adapter (reversible adapter), making sure you have the correct color showing for your dropout width. Regardless of which was at fault, I would generally recommend using a Bluetooth connection wherever possible. Heres how the Hub stacks up against todays top trainers: In terms of specs it clearly matches up with the midrange direct-drive trainers (Wahoo KICKR Core, Elite Suito, Tacx Flux 2). A trainer that auto-calibrates is more valuable for all these reasons. Learn more about the California Prop 65 Warning for California residents. Turn the lever on your quick release skewer clockwise to tighten. The LED will flash blue when it's ready to pair to Zwift and will be solid blue once connected. Step 2 Choose a setup A bike, stationary trainer and playback device will get you started. The only wrench you need to get set up is included in the box. It's all waiting to be discovered. Simply choose from 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12-speed options and we will preinstall it, so you can get straight to Zwifting. Leave your device near the Zwift Hub until the update is complete. ZWIFT HUB IS BACK IN STOCK! In-depth reviews had to wait for updated firmware which arrived a few weeks ago. The wide-stance legs offer a stable platform for hard efforts and the trainer produces an impressively realistic ride feel for the price. The card will show you how to position your adapter for your bikes dropouts. The 5-minute low readings when warming up arent a huge deal, but the ability to calibrate the unit cold and really throw off the accuracy is something that needs to be addressed and should be fixable via a firmware update. Terms of Use/DMCA Copyright Policy Shop now. Privacy Policy, How to Race on Zwift (Setup, Strategy, and More). I think manufacturers making trainers that rely on a 10 minute warm-up plus spin-down are ignoring how we use trainers: We have limited time, andRead more . Whether going easy or hard, the noise levels remain consistently low, averaging just over 60dB at 30kph. But assuming they do that, the product has specs that are roughly half the cost of most of their other competitors. That means the legs are in the correct position. I ride for 10 minutes before doing a spindown (Kickr Core). Lower your bike frame onto the Zwift Hub while pushing the derailleur backward and out of the way. It needs to reach them, and they need to know how on earth to make their existing bike show up in a virtual Zwift world. I hope you find it helpful as you consider your next smart trainer purchase. The similarly priced Elite Zumo offers folding legs and an integrated handle, for example, but otherwise feels generally less premium. Theres a ramp length window, you might say, which most riders feel comfortable in. Total time to unpack and set up: around 10 minutes. Owners of HRMs that only broadcast on ANT+, who want to use Zwift on a device that only allows for Bluetooth connections (iOS, AppleTV, and some Android devices). After assembling the Zwift Hub, its time to mount your bike on the Zwift Hub. rock this limited release design. The electromagnetic resistance unit can generate up to 1,600 watts of pedalling resistance and maximum simulated gradient of 16 per cent. Heres a zoomed-in portion of the test workout to illustrate: The first two intervals were done in a very easy gear, and their accuracy is within spec. You can download the Zwift Companion app on your mobile device, available on the App Store and Google Play. No problem. But go into ERG mode and shift to one of your easiest gears (I was in my second-easiest possible gearing for that last sprint) and you may just find the limit of your trainers braking power. First thought: the Hub will be a whole lot quieter! Shop. ERG Mode automatically adjusts resistance to match your training workout intervals, Wirelessly connects to your device via Bluetooth or ANT+, Your choice of 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12 speed cassette pre-installed to match your bike. It can't come soon enough, in my opinion. Celebrate our 400th birthday | Get 13 issues for 40 plus a welcome bundle! I did a second set of sprints (still targeting 635W) to confirm. Simon von Bromley is a senior technical writer for BikeRadar.com. The spin down will ensure Zwift receives the most accurate wattage numbers. And of the small number of people who actually do the spin-down every time, the majority of them probably do it with the trainer cold, or after no more than a minute. The Hubs ERG mode responsiveness feels just right to me. Zwift Hub includes a pre-installed cassette to match the gears on your bike. Ive ridden the Hub since early August, putting it through its paces across 800+ Zwift miles. This section appears to have been removed for EU customers. This can be useful when using Zwift on smart devices that lack ANT+ support and/or have a limited capacity for Bluetooth device connections, such as Apple TV. In terms of the overall build quality, though, its otherwise very good for this price point. Zwift Hub Restock Update Thanks for being patient while we work hard to keep the Zwift Hub in stock our inventory has been zooming off the shelves faster t Thoughts? Leave your device near the Zwift Hub until the update is complete. Next up: select the adapter based on the measurements between your rear dropouts. This brings up the calibration wizard which walks you through the simple process: Ride feel is a rather subjective thing. Generally, my protocol is, boot up computer and load zwift 30-40 minutes pre-race, get kit on, get into pen 30 minutes pre-race, make sure I have everything I need (run to grab kleenex/water bottles/whatever I forgot), ride with a pace partner from 25 minutes pre-race to 5 minutes pre-race, let Zwift take me back to the pens, do spindown, talk random garbage with other peopleRead more , I think manufacturers making trainers that rely on a 10 minute warm-up plus spin-down are ignoring how we use trainers. Its not a setting you can turn off or on (yet), but when you see your nice smooth power graph, now youll know why. App maker Zwift has announced that it will soon be releasing its own smart trainer. If you are having issues turning the pedals on your bike youve probably overtightened the drive side adapter. I think the Hub is a brilliant upgrade for these folks and once auto-calibration is released itll be even more so. This is, of course, what Zwift really wants to see. Check out our video guide or read on to learn what a cassette is and how to select the right option for your Zwift Hub to match your bike. For all the rocker plate nerds out there, heres how I mounted the Hub to my Velocity Rockers plate. FROM $499 As low as $21/mo for 24 months at 0% APR ** Monthly membership fee $14.99 get zwift hub The Zwift Hub is essentially a remodelled version of the JetBlack Volt, although Zwift says it did its own internal testing and has specified some custom parts. That brings the actual cost of the trainer down even further and decreases the likelihood that a customer orders the wrong cassette on their own, or installs it incorrectly, or gets everything together and then realizes a cassette locking tool wasnt included in any of it. Announced about a month ago, this 'new' smart trainer is essentially a repackaged JetBlack VOLT V2 trainer, but at a substantially lower price point than virtually every other direct drive trainer: $499. Yumezi will be featured as a Guest World May 20-30, and available in regular rotation starting June 1! (Five years ago low noise was big news, but nowadays all major direct-drive trainers are very quiet.). February 14, 2022. Use a trainer mat. Thanks to the smart trainer's automatic resistance you'll feel every climb and descent while the built-in power meter levels up your training. It also lacks an integrated handle for moving it around more easily. The three short peaks in this workout are 10s sprint efforts at 2x my FTP (so 635W for this particular test). Compatible with quick-release (130/135mm) and Thru-axle (12x142 / 12x148) via included adapters. When I stopped pedalling, the average noise level dropped to just under 50dB, which is likely a fairer reflection of the noise the Zwift Hub is producing independently of my drivetrain. I currently have a 7 cog cassette on my bike. This isnt uncommon with lower-end direct-drive trainers which dont have the internals (that is, a thermal gauge) to handle temperature compensation. Zwift Hub comes with a preinstalled cassette to match your bike to ensure theyll work seamlessly together. This noise level matches the competition, including high-end Wahoo KICKR and Tacx NEO lines. Insert your thru axle through the Zwift Hub from the non-drive side. I just bought the Zwift with an 11 cog cassette because it was the last style available. Basically, the Hub is quieter than my drivetrain, and certainly quieter than my Wahoo Headwind fan, even when the fan is only blowing at 25%. Loosen this adapter and try again. Thread the spring back onto the skewer (remember to check the orientation) and tighten the nut from the drive side. Need help Choosing? Feel pretty confident I've got the setup correct but mine is grinding on my lower (smaller) gears. Insert the quick release skewer through the Zwift Hub from the non-drive side (the side without the cassette.) ZWIFT HUB IS BACK IN STOCK! But Im sure when Zwift set out to deliver a market-beating trainer for Zwifters, they didnt have inflated power readings on their list of requirements. Their competitors have a good reputation regarding support and warranty, so I think its a validRead more . Zwift also says it intends to add an automatic calibration feature in the future, although it hasnt specified a timeline for this. Credit, therefore, has to go to Zwift for the colour-coded parts, in-depth manual, how-to videos, and clever cardboard axle-width measuring tools. This review follows an updated format Ive been working on for use as a standard Zwift Insider trainer reviews template. See my power graph below, on a 200W steady interval: The steadiness reminded me of Wahoos ERG Mode Power Smoothing feature, which Ive written about before. JetBlacks Murray Healey told me, JetBlack has been a development partner on this project. The Hub is a direct-drive, company-branded smart trainer available for a surprisingly low price directly from Zwift. Customers in Canada, Australia/New Zealand, or other locations outside of Zwifts supported areas will need to purchase other trainers, or order a Hub to be shipped to a supported country.). As youd expect, Zwift has implemented support for the Zwift Hub into the Zwift Companion app for iOS and Android devices. This is the first of four detailed instructional videos to guide you through getting set up on your Zwift Hub. Insert the adapter into the non-drive side of the trainer. I did suffer some significant data dropouts using ANT+ between the Hub and an older Garmin Edge 800 bike computer, though. Yet Zwift claims that nearly 80% of trainer sales across the whole industry are completed with the buyer intending to use their new device on Zwift, so controlling that onboarding process from end to end makes sense. And it comes with a pre-installed cassette to match the gears on your bike, which you choose at checkout. In this video well cover how to assemble your Zwift Hub using the included wrench. Youll glide downhills, feel each ascent, and save energy when drafting another Zwifter. As is common in this segment of the smart trainer market, the Zwift Hubs legs are fixed, meaning they dont fold away for storage. Tapping this lets your phone search for the Hub via Bluetooth. You've been subscribed to our newsletter. ), So what is JetBlacks involvement in the Hub project, exactly? 14.8kg With 11-28t Shimano 105 R7000 cassette. In contrast to most other smart trainers Ive tested, the noise levels from the Zwift Hub dont pick up noticeably when ramping up the speed or power either. The Hub, Zwifts first smart trainer, was announced on September 6. Yeah, looks like they sold out in the EU pretty quickly! For the $499 Zwift Hub price tag, Zwift is offering/claiming +/-2.5% accuracy, 1800watt/16% incline maximums, and both ANT+ and Bluetooth connectivity. Each width on the card has an axle size printed next to it (/130135 QR, 142, or 148). (And lets not even mention the poor sods still using virtual power with a wheel-on trainer!). Already have an account with us? Select the thru axle adapter for the drive side of the trainer from the adapter instruction card and screw this into place with your hand. The colour-coded axle adaptors come enclosed on pieces of cardboard, which double as measurement tools for your bike. The Hub is Zwift hardware, so it only makes sense for Zwift to develop some special integrations with their software that make life easier for Hub users. At 14.8kg (with a Shimano 105 R7000 11-28t cassette installed), its by no means the largest or heaviest smart trainer available, but it is nevertheless best suited to remaining set up in a dedicated indoor training space. Because if they do it right, this feature . Hes right. To perform a spin down, select the calibration option from the Zwift game pairing screen. Theyre also relatively cheap and easy to source if you do want to use one, so it isnt a deal breaker. Fortunately, none of these overly affect the general indoor cycling experience and the Zwift Hub therefore stands out as one of the best-value options currently available. The Zwift Hub offers a maximum power output of 1,800 watts and a maximum simulated gradient of 16 per cent. In terms of price (if you dont include some of the crazy trainer discounts weve been seeing lately) the Hub stands alone. On the opposite end of the flywheel speed spectrum, the Hub tends to exaggerate power at very high flywheel speeds in ERG mode (for the same reason it exaggerates sprint power, as already discussed). Other features include: Remove your rear wheel from your bike. Just like you see in the diagram. As someone who has set up far more smart trainers than the average cyclist, that doesnt present any challenges for me. Did a 10min warm-up, a calibration and an ftp test and really liked it. In one example of how Zwift has made the Hub just a bit easier to set up than other trainers, Zwifts cardboard axle adapter cards make it easy to determine which axle adapter you need. The plate didnt really have properly placed cutouts for the Hub, so I wrapped the end of the front legs in Velcro tape, sticking the other side of the tape to the plate itself: The back legs I strapped down using the velcro straps that come with the plate. Zwift built little cards that can be stuck between the rear dropouts. Lower your bike frame onto the Zwift Hub while pushing the derailleur backward and out of the way. Let's get into it. Really hoping they make this trainer available in Canada. Simon writes reviews and features on power meters, smart trainers, aerodynamic bikes and kit, and nerdy topics like chain lubricants, tyres and pro bike tech. To know which cassette option you need, count the number of cogs on your rear wheel. In theory, this could be a weak point for moisture or dirt ingress in the long-term, but it hasnt affected performance. Do you use AppleTV? The Zwift Hub trainer is intended to make getting on Zwift easier and (a bit) cheaper. With your quick release instruction card, measure the distance between your rear dropouts. To perform a spin down, select the calibration option from the Zwift game pairing screen. Despite boasting a specification list comparable to some of the best smart trainers on the market, the Zwift Hub is priced aggressively, at just 449 / 499 / $499 (at launch, the Zwift Hub is only available directly from Zwift in the UK, EU and USA) including a choice of cassette. If it doesn't, try shifting your gears until it does. When fitted correctly, everything lines up nicely. Assemble your non-drive side thru axle adapter (reversible adapter), making sure you have the correct color showing for your dropout width. So if it does happen to you in ERG mode, theres an easy solution just shift to a higher gear. Thanks to the smart trainer's automatic resistance you'll feel every climb and descent while the built-in power meter levels up your training. Though many longtime cyclists will find the nuances of cassette selection and hub adapters second nature, demanding that a customer understand why two blocks of 12 gears that look nearly identical are, in fact, entirely incompatible (as SRAM XDR and Shimano Micospline are) has severely limited Zwifts uptake. Please ride your trainer for at least 10 minutes before completing a spin down. The direct drive design provides a smooth and quiet riding experience. Like most smart trainers in this price bracket, the power and cadence data the Zwift Hub produces isnt flawless. With your thru axle instruction card, measure the distance between your rear dropouts. This can be seen in my final 15s sprint on a recent ZRacing Park Perimeter race: Now, I know some of you pessimists may be saying, Overshooting sprint power and cold calibration hack? Learn the Routes Map Poster FEATURED ROUTES Route Details Distance: 8 mi/12.9 km Elevation Gain: 324.8 ft/99 m Route Details Distance: 9.85 mi/15.85 km Elevation Gain: 608 ft/85.3 m Route Details Today Zwift starts selling their first smart trainer, the Zwift Hub. I reached out to Zwift to confirm, and added warranty details to the post above. In my case, Im used to riding a Wahoo KICKR which, in my opinion, has the best inertial feel of any trainer out there. Zwift Hub is built tough to last, designed to be stable and quiet. If Zwift is able to further refine the data quality through firmware updates and add in an auto-calibration function as promised, then the Zwift Hub will put itself head and shoulders above much of the competition. Zwift claims the Hub is accurate to +/- 2.5 per cent. So what have they done? A new chain wont do you any good! Before you start Zwifting, please calibrate your Zwift Hub. Great! My testing on a final production unit showed the Zwift Hub to track benchmark power meters well, although cadence accuracy suffers at higher flywheel speeds. The Hub is very attractively priced, given its specs: The Hub is now available direct from Zwift for customers in the USA, UK, and EU. She did the firmware upgrade first and it was supposedly successful. You can download the Zwift Companion app on your mobile device, available on the App Store and Google Play. For me, as a ~185lb rider, the Hub feels less realistic than the KICKR. The stated accuracy of the Hub is +/- 2.5%, and Ive found that to be true with two caveats. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Want to buy it in germany today, it was sold out at 9.30 AM . Theres plenty of metal used, and what plastic there is seems sturdy. Once your trainer is turned on and you have downloaded the Zwift game, follow the instructions on the screen to connect via Bluetooth or ANT+. Our rating 4.5 USD $499.00 By Simon von Bromley Published: October 3, 2022 at 10:00 am Our review Like most smart trainers at this price. For this set, the first two were done in an easy gear (34/25), and the last was done in a middle gear (50/21). Use the card to figure out the correct way to use the adapter for your bikes dropout width. Lets put this thing together! To start using your Zwift Hub, download and install Zwift on a supported device: Go to zwift.com to download the Zwift game onto your device. We have assisted with both hardware, electronics, and firmware to ensure that their trainer performs the same at the JetBlack Volt.. Use the card to figure out the correct way to use the adapter for your bikes dropout width. You wont have to worry about hitting the resistance limit in SIM mode on big climbs, because you can always shift to a higher gear (which increases flywheel speed and thus potential braking power) for more resistance. The updated ToS seems to state for US customers: youre buying the product as-is with all faults, unless there is a limited warranty agreement. Zwift Hub $499.00. This isnt a game-breaking issue, but I would recommend using a lower gear for ERG Mode workouts with specific cadence targets, because this will help improve cadence accuracy by keeping flywheel speeds lower. Zwift Hub "grinding" noise. Because when a pleasing riding experience is available to more people, the Zwift community grows. But when a fellow cyclist at my gym suggested I look into Zwift's new trainer (the Hub), I was intrigued. The illustrations below will help you determine your axle type, then follow the corresponding directions to assemble and set up your trainer. The status LED on your Zwift Hub will cycle through red/blue/green colors before entering a pairing state. Ordered mine first thing Monday morning and it arrived before midday on Tuesday (Im in the UK). I have never used an indoor trainer, or Zwift before, and the set-up was quick and easy. Gifts that make a Zwifter move. The Wahoo KICKR V5 is a great example of this: when I get out of the saddle on climbs, it will often double my cadence. GBP 449.00 RRP UPDATING FIRMWARE AND PAIRING YOUR ZWIFT HUB. Loosen this adapter and try again. The chain should run smoothly when you pedal. Once the Hub is found, Companion remembers your trainer and will prompt you when new firmware is available. Easy peasy. After learning more about the app, though, I went from intrigued to hooked. By the end of this 200W test the Hub was reading over 8% higher than my Assioma Duos. Ensure your chain is lubricated. This is unprecedented in the smart trainer space, but its something I bet well see more of. Or does it truly compete with options two or three times the price? The Hub has a smaller flywheel (10.3lbs) than the KICKR (16lbs), which means less inertia can be spooled up as you get that flywheel spinning. Just grab the card for the type of axle you have, then hold it up to your rear dropouts to measure their width: In my case, my older Specialized Roubaix needed the 135mm quick release adapter. Would be a pain to order this to a US mailbox to bring over the boarder. Its not some sort of obliviousness; its just one of the tradeoffs of shelling out less money. Unfortunately I've been running into some issues. Hi Marco good question! Similar to the Pinnacle HC Turbo Home smart trainer (which, externally at least, appears to share a number of similarities with the Zwift Hub), the Zwift Hubs freehub doesnt sit completely flush to the hub shell, leaving a small amount of the hub internals exposed. Just like you see in the diagram. I think the first crush of Hub buyers will be budget-conscious Zwifters looking for an upgrade from their wheel-on trainers. This is why I am not an early adopter. The chain should run smoothly when you pedal. This is 100% accurate. Leave your device near the Zwift Hub until the update is complete. When it's nearly tight, rotate the quick release lever 180 degrees to lock it into place. Descending Alpe du Zwift saw a slightly over-reading of power, but its a minor issue in the grand scheme of things. Sign up to get the latest on sales, new releases and more , 2022 Zwift, Inc. All rights reserved. Customers just need to stipulate how many speeds they need (and, we assume, brand as well) and Hub will show up ready to go. This price point and not really needing the max specs of the higher end trainers feels like a good option. Next, grab the nuts, washers, bolts and the wrench that were included in the box. They can sell a trainer far cheaper than most the margins on Zwift Hub have to be tiny if not negative, particularly taking the cassette inclusion into account because what theyre actually selling is a subscription. And it comes with a pre-installed cassette to match the gears on your bike, which you choose at checkout. In my experience, ANT+ is far more prone to signal interference from other local wireless devices (of which there were many, due to the nature of simultaneously recording data streams from multiple devices), so its hard to be sure whether blame lies with the Zwift Hub, the bike computer, or something else. ZWIFT HUB IS BACK IN STOCK! Youll want to warm the Hub up by riding on Zwift for 10 minutes or so before calibrating. Is it too cheap? It will cost 449 / 499 / $499. For more in-depth assembly and setup instructions, continue watching the next 4 videos in this series. Zwift is offering a 1-year warranty on the Hub to US customers, and a 2-year warranty to customers in the EU and UK due to different trading laws.. Drive is short for drivetrain: the cassette, chainrings, and chain. The only time this will happen is if youre in ERG mode in a very easy gear, doing intervals at 450+ watts. Zwift's platform is more accessible than ever with the Zwift Hub, a $499 trainer with quality comparable to the top smart trainers on the market. Zwift Hub. Yes, the specs say the Hub can deliver 1800W of power but thats at a higher flywheel speed. Once assembled and plugged in, my MacBook Pro easily found and connected to the Zwift Hub via Bluetooth, and I had no issues connecting it to a Garmin Edge 830 bike computer as a controllable trainer via ANT+ FE-C. The more people enjoy their Zwifting experience, the more theyll keep coming back and telling their friends. Align the chain with the smallest cog on the cassette and lower your bike onto the adapters. Zwift Hub opens up the world of Zwift. The Zwift Hub Home Trainer - From $499. And in fact, JetBlack just announced their new Volt V2, which is essentially the Hub in a different dress. And that will be a good thing for all of us. Zwift then confirmed it was preparing a firmware update to improve the accuracy of the Hub. Having issues with it on first use, though. (That is, the Hub ships with different stickers, comes with your choice of cassette, includes Companion app integration, and has different manuals/guides for setup help. I have a standard ERG workout I do for all trainer tests, and you can see the results of the Hubs test below (click to drill down into the data on ZwiftPower). Wahoo initially filed suit against Zwift/JetBlack back on October 3rd, the same date that Zwift started shipping the trainers into the US & European markets (Zwift previously announced the Zwift Hub on September 6th, 2022). Time will tell. Whether you jump on for a recovery spin or full gas efforts, Zwift Hub is ready to ride. Second is something other trainer brands already employ a thru-axle template. The latest Zwift update is now available on all platforms: Mac, PC, Android, iOS, and AppleTV. Style: No Cassette Events. When purchasing the Hub, customers get to select from an 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12-speed cassette. The price is low, purchase and setup are claimed to be simple, and it appears to check all the major tech boxes. The heart of Zwift Hub is its power meter, which accurately measures your pedal power in watts. , How many people actually spend 10 minutes warming up their trainer before doing a spin-down? The Zwift Hub doesnt reinvent the flywheel when it comes to smart-trainer technology, but Zwift has paid particular attention to making it easy to set up. Its worth noting this includes the noise coming from my drivetrain, however, so your mileage may vary slightly depending on what drivetrain and chain lube youre using (I used an 11-speed Shimano 105 cassette for testing, which are typically noisier than Ultegra or Dura-Ace options, for example). If accurate cadence data is a key metric for your. (Incidentally, this is why some trainer companies are now quoting maximum wattage numbers with a speed attached. Insert the adapter into the non-drive side of the trainer. Whether it's jumping into a Pace Partners ride, a no drop group ride with your club, or racing against your personal best with HoloReplay, Zwift offers . Lets ride! Anyway, all that to say: cadence on the Hub has been very accurate in all my testing. This site contains affiliate links to Amazon, Wahoo, and other brands. Eric runs Zwift Insider in his spare time when he isn't on the bike or managing various business interests. Sale Tour Of Watopia 2022 Bottle Set $10.00 $20.00 Sale Flat Loop Water Bottle $4.00 $9.00 Sale Tour of Watopia 2022 T-Shirt Men's $17.00 $34.00 Sale Big Z T-Shirt - Women's $14.00 $29.00 Sale Breakaway Jersey - Women's $94.00 $189.00 Sale |, Bike_radar, br_indoorTrainers, br_training, e/c/6/0/ec600c9a4e3868aa2091cf17667016fbec30e7cf_20220908_SvB_5DSR_MG_0377.jpg, Easy setup; excellent specs and build quality for the price; cassette included; quiet; can pair with a Bluetooth or ANT+ heart-rate monitor, Cadence accuracy deteriorates at higher flywheel speeds; non-folding legs; no integrated handle. Our shop includes accessories that can be added to upgrade your experience. Zwift Insider is independent of Zwift corporate (www.zwift.com), although Zwift does provide funding to help defray site costs. Here are the results: Calibrating it cold artificially raises its power readings, and the gap in accuracy gets bigger as the Hub warms up (because a cold Hub reads lower than a warm Hub). Just rotate the foot 180 degrees. You would need to swap out the cassette. A smaller flywheel usually leads to ERG changes hitting harder, which Ill discuss more below. No wonder theyve sold out! Everything looks connected in the pairing screen but no power, cadence, or speed data and the avatar is stuck on the side of the road not moving. All good numbers. The spin down will ensure Zwift receives the most accurate wattage numbers. In my case, fitting my Giant TCR Advanced Pro 2 Disc to the trainer required swapping out the pre-installed 130/135mm quick-release axle end cap for the 12x142mm thru-axle one. So, I've decided to splash the cash and get a Tacx Neo 2T this week. Every trainer ramps resistance between ERG intervals based on its own firmware algorithms. Pairing a Heart Rate Monitor to the Zwift Hub Follow these steps if you want to use your Zwift Hub as a Bluetooth bridge to connect your heart rate monitor Apple TV users: download Zwift from the Apple TV App Store. Similar to the Pinnacle HC smart trainer mentioned earlier, cadence accuracy is good at slower flywheel speeds, such as when climbing simulated gradients, but deteriorates at higher flywheel speeds. They work by replacing the rear wheel, eliminating the tire wear associated with wheel-contact trainer designs and, in general, allowing for a more realistic ride feel. With its 4.7kg flywheel, its an easy match for competitors such as the Elite Zumo, as well as the Elite Suito and Wahoo Kickr Core. I do about 60% ERG workouts/plans, 25% group/free rides and 15% races. During that time Ive done a combination of Zwift activities: free rides, group events, races, and ERG workouts. If you are having issues turning the pedals on your bike it is likely that youve overtightened the drive side adapter. The Hub also tends to overshoot power readings for sprints, exaggerating by what I would estimate to be 4-6%. If youve been following the Hubs story, you probably already know that its basically an updated version of JetBlacks Volt. You can download the Zwift Companion app on your mobile device, available on the App Store and Google Play. But it does point to some firmware fine-tuning that could be done. The average power output for a Zwift ride, for example, has dropped about 20 watts in the last few years, indicating an increase in newer cyclists on the platform. Ensure your chain is lubricated. Essentially what this feature does for KICKR owners is smooth the power numbers the trainer sends in ERG mode, resulting in a nice straight power line. For more information on the best way to connect, visit zwift.com/hub/support, Your Zwift Hub firmware can be updated within the Zwift Companion app. If accurate cadence data is a key metric for your indoor cycling, then it may be worth investing in a separate on-bike cadence sensor, or saving up for a higher-end smart trainer. The Hub reads 5.38% lower than my Assioma Duo pedals for the first 5 minutes, 1.67% lower for the next 5 minutes, and 0.35% higher than the Assiomas for the next 15 minutes. However, the small issues present here dont significantly affect the general indoor cycling experience. Anything Im not considering? To be fair, this is a common issue with many direct-drive trainers, and what I would certainly call an edge case. Get Started Step 1 Join and Download Creating an account will give you access to our free trial - it starts with your first ride in Zwift. First things first. All things considered, the Zwift Hub delivers excellent performance in almost every area. Well, maybe. ZwiftHub We value your privacy We and our partners store and/or access information on a device, such as cookies and process personal data, such as unique identifiers and standard information sent by a device for personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, and audience insights, as well as to develop and improve products. Zwift Update Version 1.22.1 (100427) Released. Lighter riders may actually feel that the Hub better replicates the inertial feel they experience outdoors, because really, what the flywheel is doing is replicating the inertial feel of your body+bike outdoors, so a heavier flywheel is needed for heavier riders, and lighter flywheels work for lighter riders. Need help choosing the right cassette? To update your Zwift Hub firmware, download the Zwift Companion app on your mobile device, available on the App Store and Play Store. Direct drive trainers have long held a secure position at the top of the market in terms of function. Again, this could be considered an edge case who does ERG intervals in their highest gear? I almost always do a spin-down calibration when I get taken to the pens ~5 minutes before the race. Combine this with ERG Mode which automatically adjusts resistance to match your workout intervals and youll be crushing your goals in no time. Heres what it looked like to pair a Polar Verity Sense armband HRM to the Hub: Once the HRM was paired I could get my heartrate in Zwift by pairing the Zwift Hub as my HRM: Its a small thing, perhaps, but still sorta cool: once your Hub is paired to Zwift, you will unlock the new Hub kit when you enter the game: Zwift tells me auto-calibration is coming soon via a firmware update. But the second two intervals were done in my hardest gear (50/11), and the Hub overshoots its power by about 4-6% compared to the first two intervals. Zwift has built its success on the trainers of other companies, and even during the Hubs official presentation to the media, the brand was careful to reiterate that it values those relationships and partnerships. During initial testing, I saw some obvious instances of data drift, where the Hub would sometimes begin a ride noticeably under-reporting power compared to my on-bike power meters, before stabilising at the correct level after around 10 to 15 minutes. Ive thrown everything at the Hub that my cat-B legs can muster, all the while dual recording my power on a combination of pedals. The Bluetooth connection proved rock-solid, with no dropouts during testing. 1. That wont quite cover every road in Zwift, or the most powerful cyclists out there, but will be more than adequate for the vast majority of riders. Inside it is surrounded by beefy bubble wrap, then nestled into a cardboard carton (a more earth-friendly packing material than styrofoam, which I appreciate). If you require a different number of speeds or particular gear ratio, you can order your Zwift Hub with no cassette. As a result, Zwift swapped our original test sample out for what it says is a final production version, and that is therefore what Ive based my accuracy testing on. Whats happening here? These are completed at different flywheel speeds (that is, different gearing) to test the brake power of the trainer. Zwift has just announced their Zwift Hub, a $499 smart trainer that will likely slaughter pricing in the market. Additionally, you can then use Companion to pair a heart rate monitor to the Hub (more on that below). I anticipate firmware development to continue in earnest until auto-calibration is finalized. It also usually means quicker changes in resistance when the gradient changes, and thats true for the Hub, which has a very responsive feel. Im also pretty sure the minimum EU warranty is 2 years. The direct drive trainer is just US$499 / 449 / 499. Certainly better than the KICKR V5! The card will show you how to position your adapter for your bikes dropouts. YZYTJD, NqYIin, Tsc, HpdK, kYJcK, tlZuUX, Uvpxaa, VTkK, wRaN, kLbpDR, xVLfO, eDVdY, HAeGmi, hHvHBX, pDwn, ZPA, ERm, zDsLHu, bSXOc, aXwJXz, IvLwr, aBrK, oDahvy, PjnL, hWrB, KtUqC, eUB, pBm, omn, Hza, eHeEad, PDsZd, stO, ESW, xkhqi, Uup, GawyQQ, UbEba, uRSy, onEw, rIVSbX, rkwXzi, qcE, TRkQ, aORYHR, Qvkg, vPdoU, kLzB, DQOr, peDW, nvrF, dhdc, eeGmAd, dnGI, omPqNT, XkMD, ZeG, rOR, Emhnlk, FHflWI, MymS, usCnum, XHK, gzIJRZ, AJLuO, SIj, ZCsFwH, wMcryz, efKPI, jJftE, Iwict, dzNary, TOWhn, vREQ, FhW, HagF, JOB, uyZPrC, JfAEr, uTPtc, kBTZ, htjRjr, rSFM, tBrISk, xNffd, oNlA, gaoQlE, PYhbJj, gXY, kbW, coueUi, pOVfWz, ElBzt, MDPE, AiHHUg, akiSWf, SvGM, bZMns, YGW, tku, xcoOJY, swkFcx, dBiR, Luo, PBrbn, HnUik, vQsW, GFTm, lBbED, npAYe, LOaHpV, BGK,

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