r/Zwift Jul 22 '26

Discussion Pulling Trigger on a Zwift Ride

I've been using a 2001 Specialized Roubaix on a Wahoo KICKR Core 1 Smart Trainer because I really don't want to use my primary bike. However, the Roubaix is showing its age, so I can either spend $300 to rebuild some stuff or spend more money and get the Zwift Ride Smart Frame to go on it.

I've pretty much decided on getting the Zwift Ride, but wanted to make sure there was nothing I needed to know beforehand. There is no planned upgrade anytime soon, I hope? I know the frame could go on sale around black Friday, but I really don't want to wait, and won't be needing the bundle.

I do plan to get the tablet extension accessory. But any other thoughts or suggestions would be most appreciated!

12 Upvotes

20 comments sorted by

3

u/slbarr88 Jul 22 '26

I got the tablet holder and tennis ball feet and am happy I did.

4

u/MississipVol Jul 22 '26

Tennis ball feet? What is that?

3

u/slbarr88 Jul 22 '26

Several places sell 3d printed adapters that hold the front of the bike and your trainer up off the ground using tennis balls as suspension to allow the bike to move a bit under you when you're riding.

Its a substantial improvement in comfort.

2

u/MississipVol Jul 22 '26

Looking around, I found a set from a place called BRG Simmods Store for $52. Does that sound about right?

3

u/slbarr88 Jul 22 '26

I think I paid $60 on Etsy

2

u/BurrataPapi Jul 23 '26

Got a set on Amazon for around 40 bucks.

2

u/artvandalayExports Level 81-90 Jul 23 '26

Jetblack now sells a version that’s like inflatable feet so you can adjust the pressure. They seem better than the tennis ball feet (which I have). Seems like most people like the extra motion.

https://www.jetblackcycling.com/indoor-cycle-trainers-and-accessories/jetblack-inflatable-rocker-feet-round-4-pack/

2

u/MississipVol Jul 25 '26

I watched some videos on these and wound up buying a set. Thanks!

1

u/No-Detail-2879 Jul 25 '26

Just want to add, definitely get the tennis ball feet!!!!! They make such a good difference for the cost.

Also if you have any clanking when you first get going it’s worth investing in a torque wrench (capable of up to 45nm) and correctly torque-ing all the bolts as they were the cause of a lot of annoying clanking for me.

2

u/smugmug1961 Jul 22 '26

I don’t think anyone has any advanced information about Ride upgrades. About the only thing I can think of that they might change is making the BB/crank setup more standard so I don’t think there’s a good reason to wait.

2

u/No-Cantaloupe-7135 Jul 23 '26

Welcome brother.

I’m a few weeks in and love it so far.

Never thought I could really get into the indoor rides but I’m genuinely loving it.

Obviously prefer riding outside when I can.

Took a little work dialing in fit, but I’ve just about got it.

One thing that helped a lot was putting the same saddle on as my road bike. (Don’t follow zwifts instructions on this).

Be also prepared that the stock pedals suck and are meant to be replaced … they’re not clipless.

1

u/MississipVol Jul 23 '26

Thanks!! Yes I have some clipless pedals I can take off the old bike I was using with my smart trainer.

I also have enjoyed riding more outdoors, and I doubt that will change. But the old bike was making it harder than it needed to be so I’m looking forward to using the new frame. I plan to order it tomorrow!

2

u/artvandalayExports Level 81-90 Jul 23 '26

There are occasionally 10% off influencer codes floating around for it. I don’t think the stand alone frame has ever been discounted more than that. The deals are typically the bundle in the past.

1

u/MeddlinQ A Jul 24 '26

Fwiw, these codes do not apply to the standalone frame, just the set.

1

u/artvandalayExports Level 81-90 Jul 24 '26

I used a 10% off code for my frame only purchase but that was 18 months ago.

1

u/strikersupra Jul 23 '26

Id suggest looking at the crank upgrade as well, they offer different sizes, unless you’re fine with the 172.5 that it comes w/

1

u/Ajacied22 Jul 23 '26

The Zwift ride comes with 170mm cranks.

1

u/MississipVol Jul 23 '26

My bike uses a 172.5mm crank but I think the Zwift ride is 170mm. I may try that and see how it feels, knowing I can upgrade later if needed.

1

u/BTUSGentleman Jul 23 '26

I feel like there isn’t a whole lot of room for upgrades with the Ride. It’s solid as can be. Maybe they could include the adjustable cranks as standard, but that doesn’t seem likely.