New Scott Addict balances comfort and race bike stiffness to be ‘long ride ready’

Scott has revealed its new Addict endurance bike, which is intended unashamedly for recreational use and designed to be “long ride ready”. 

The endurance bike follows the Addict RC 20 race bike, which was released last November. “This year, we wanted to bring the advancements learned on the RC to a larger range of customers on our most sold road bike, the Addict,” says Jean-François Boivin, the Addict’s lead engineer. 

Boivin says it hasn’t always been easy for Scott to define what an endurance bike should be. “In the past, the Addict had been designed as the RC’s little brother,” he says.

But, despite learning from the RC, the new Addict is its own bike, with Scott focusing on four main areas: extra comfort, relaxed geometry, confident handling and practical features. 

Greater comfort, but stiff where it counts

Scott Addict Premium endurance road bike.
The Scott Addict Premium is the top model in the new line-up, with a Shimano Dura-Ace groupset and Fulcrum Wind 42 DB wheels. Scott

Boivin explains that when designing the new Addict, Scott worked carefully on frame compliance. The result is the new Addict has 25 per cent more compliance than the Addict RC, and it has 50 per cent more frame compliance over the outgoing Addict, which launched back in 2020. 

“We achieved this by reducing the seat tube section underneath the seat stay junction to allow for additional flex,” says Boivin. “This way, the seat tube can flex forward a bit more. The top tube is also slimmer to enable upward deflection, and the drop seat stay will flex outward to contribute even more comfort.” 

Julien Chauveau, marketing manager for road, gravel and triathlon at Scott, says the lessons for how to adapt the Addict’s tubes came from developing the RC race bike, where the team saw how the bike flexed in a fatigue machine at the company’s factory in China. 

“At that moment, we really understood how we could improve the tube shapes and the design of the bike to actually increase the frame compliance,” says Chauveau. 

Pack shot of the Scott Addict RC 20 road bike
Scott says it wanted to bring the advancements it learned from making the Addict RC (pictured) to the Addict endurance bike. Scott Windsor / Our Media

However, the new Addict is really a balancing act between where compliance aids comfort and stiffness helps performance: the bike has the same stiffness as the Addict RC in the bottom bracket area and head tube. 

As soon as the moulds for the Addict were ready, Scott asked for frames with different layups and levels of stiffness, going from very soft up to the stiffness levels of the Addict RC.

After blind testing, Chauveau says everybody loved the stiffer bikes: “The main reason was the head tube stiffness. They all felt the handling was more precise and gave them more confidence. With a bike like this we want the rider to feel at ease, even when you go fast. The stiffer bikes were much better for that.”

“Bottom bracket stiffness was less easy to feel, but still the riders preferred the stiffer version for sprints and climbs,” he adds. 

38mm tyres and geometry tweaks 

Scott Addict Premium rear triangle showing generous tyre clearance.
The bike can now fit 38mm tyres, but all models ship with 34mm tyres. Scott

The balancing act between comfort and performance continues with the Addict’s ample tyre clearance and geometry tweaks.

The bike can now fit 38mm tyres, which is 4mm wider than the tyre clearance of the Addict RC and 3mm more than the previous Addict. 

“Not only will you benefit from the added vibration damping of lower pressure tyres, but you will also get added confidence in grip,” says Boivin. 

Yet Scott seems aware that although tyre widths and clearances are increasing, running 38mm tyres on an endurance bike might still be a niche desire; the Addict’s geometry is optimised for 34mm tyres and models in the new range are specced with this width. 

Scott also wants the bike to be accessible to the average rider, and for that reason the bike’s stack is now 5mm higher and the reach is 5mm shorter. Although the bottom bracket drop and fork rake were adjusted to accommodate the wider tyres, Scott shortened the chainstays by 2mm to make the bike feel more playful.

This geometry is also a big reason why the Addict fits into Scott’s new ‘ride’ bike category, whereas the RC fits into its new ‘race’ category, alongside the Foil aero bike

“It’s not uncommon to see riders take the RC and add many spacers to fit their [body] or riding style,” says Boivin. “But in fact, if you were to use 35mm of spacers on the RC, you would actually get to the same position as on the Addict without spacers.” 

“If you use more than 30mm of spacers on the RC, you would probably be better suited with the new Addict,” he adds. 

Scott Addict geometry

47cm 49cm 52cm 54cm 56cm 58cm 61cm
Seat tube length (mm) 425 445 465 485 505 525 555
Top tube length (mm) 511 521 536 551 566 582 597
Head tube length (mm) 104 115 139 161 182 201 201
Head tube angle (degrees) 71.3 71.8 72 72.2 72.5 73 73
Seat tube angle (degrees) 75 75 74.5 74 73.5 73.1 73
Chainstay length (mm) 418 418 418 418 418 418 418
Wheelbase (mm) 984 991 1,000 1,009 1,016 1,022 1,036
Stack (mm) 522 534 557 578 599 619 638
Reach (mm) 372 378 382 386 389 394 402

Storage and hidden extras 

Scott Addict downtube storage hatch.
The Scott Addict down tube storage hatch is hidden by the bottom bracket. Scott

To help make the Addict ‘long ride ready’, Scott has equipped the bike with extra storage and accessories. 

The bike has storage integrated into the down tube, which is accessible via a hatch near the bottom bracket. This is fitted with a flat tyre ‘Save the Day’ repair kit, which consists of a mini pump, tyre levers and a TPU inner tube, held in a fabric sleeve. The kit is included on the top two Addict models, and is an optional upgrade for others. 

Scott Addict Save the Day puncture repair kit being removed from the bike frame.
The ‘Save the Day’ repair kit fits in the down tube storage. Scott

Scott Addict Save the Day puncture repair kit.
The kit contains a mini pump, tyre levers and a TPU inner tube. Scott

The location of the storage is supposed to be unnoticeable (because nobody likes to think about getting a flat tyre), but the position makes sense from an engineering standpoint, too.

Chauveau says the total weight penalty for the storage is only 40g, with the door weighing just under 10g and only an extra 25g of carbon required to reinforce the frame. The door only has to support its own weight, but if it was under water bottles, as on other bikes, it would have to be far more substantial, and therefore heavier.

The mechanism to lock the door is the same design Scott uses for its mountain bikes. “We know it’s going to work and last a long time,” says Chauveau. 

Scott Addict Syncros frame bag.
The bike comes with a frame bag. Scott
Scott Addict handlebar multi-tool.
A multi-tool fits into the handlebar drop. Scott

The bike also comes with a frame bag, which attaches to mounting points that are recessed in the top tube. This is so they don’t disrupt the clean lines of the bike if you’re riding without the bag. 

Like the Addict RC, Scott’s new endurance bike has a small multi-tool hidden in the handlebar, which can be used to adjust any of the bolts on the bike or remove the wheels.

The Syncros seatpost also has an in-built bike light, which can provide illumination for up to 20 hours, depending on the mode. 

Syncros compatibility 

Scott Addict Premium one piece cockpit.
The Addict is compatible with a wide range of Syncros components, so you can get the right fit. Scott

Boivin says bike fit is “paramount” for long rides, and so Scott has ensured there is a large range of fit components from its in-house brand Syncros that will fit on the Addict.

“Most of the Addict’s small parts are compatible with the RC. This means that you get access to a range of parts that are interchangeable between the two bikes,” says Boivin. 

While the Addict comes with a -6˚ stem, this means you could also fit the RC’s -11˚ stem or its one-piece Syncros cockpit. 

“You’ll notice that we don’t have any road in the round handlebars anymore on the Addict lineup. All you will find are smooth surface handlebars for best in class ergonomics,” he adds.

Keeping the weight down 

Scott Addict Premium endurance road bike.
The Addict’s lead engineer, Jean-François Boivin, says the Addict HMX is one of the lightest endurance frames on the market.  Scott

While the focus of the new Addict is comfort and long-distance performance, Boivin says “a lot of effort” was made to keep the weight of the bike as low as possible. 

The new bike’s frame is available in two carbon fibre options – Scott’s premium HMX or more affordable HMF carbon. 

At 780g, Boivin says the Addict HMX is one of the lightest endurance frames on the market. 

He says the HMX frame is only 50g heavier than the previous-generation Addict RC, while the Addict HMF frame is 70g lighter than the previous Addict. 

The top-spec Addict Premium, with a Shimano Dura-Ace groupset and Fulcrum Wind 42 DB wheels, weighs a claimed 7.4kg. The rest of the range weighs between 7.8kg and 9kg. 

“Attractive and accessible” 

Scott Addict 30 endurance road bike.
The Scott Addict 30 has Shimano 105 Di2 and costs £3,299 / $3,999 / €3,799.

As well as plenty of fit options, Scott has provided a wide range of complete builds.

“We want the Addict to be attractive and accessible to the largest possible span of people,” says Boivin. “So this is why the bike builds go from the very affordable mechanical shifting to the high-end electronic group sets.”

In keeping with the ‘long ride’ philosophy and the focus on recreational use, Scott has specced the Addict with smaller chainrings and larger cassettes than you would find on racier bikes. 

The bottom gear on the new Addicts will be a one-to-one ratio with Shimano groupsets and 0.92-to-one with SRAM groupsets. 

The bike is also compatible with SRAM’s Universal Derailleur Hanger, so it’s futureproof and compatible with as many drivetrains as possible. 

“The rest of the components go from affordable alloy parts to light carbon components and wheelsets. We think everybody will be able to find what they are looking for,” says Boivin. 

You may like

Scott Addict range overview

Scott Addict Premium

  • Frame: Addict HMX 
  • Groupset: Shimano Dura-Ace 
  • Wheels: Fulcrum Wind 42 DB 
  • Tyres: Schwalbe Pro One, 700x34c 
  • Weight: 7.4kg 
  • Price: £6,499 / $7,699 / €7,499

Scott Addict 10

  • Frame: Addict HMX 
  • Groupset: SRAM Force AXS 
  • Wheels: Fulcrum Wind 42 DB 
  • Tyres: Schwalbe Pro One, 700x34c 
  • Weight: 7.8kg 
  • Price: £5,499 / $6,699 / €6,399

Scott Addict 20 

  • Frame: Addict HMF
  • Groupset: Shimano Ultegra 
  • Wheels: Fulcrum Wind 42 DB 
  • Tyres: Schwalbe One, 700x34c 
  • Weight: 8.3kg
  • Price: £4,299 / $5,499 / €4,999

Scott Addict 30

  • Frame: Addict HMF 
  • Groupset: Shimano 105 Di2
  • Wheels: Syncros Capital 1.0 40
  • Tyres: Schwalbe One, 700x34c 
  • Weight: 8.5kg
  • Price: £3,299 / $3,999 / €3,799

Scott Addict 40 

  • Frame: Addict HMF
  • Groupset: Shimano 105 Di2
  • Wheels: Syncros RP2.0 Disc
  • Tyres: Schwalbe One, 700x34c 
  • Weight: 8.9kg 
  • Price: £2,749 / $3,399 / €3,199 

Scott Addict 50 

  • Frame: Addict HMF
  • Groupset: Shimano 105
  • Wheels: Syncros RP2.0 Disc
  • Tyres: Schwalbe One, 700x34c 
  • Weight: 9kg
  • Price: £2,249 / $2,799 / €2,599

What’s Coming Next? Read “This Season On Zwift” Fall 2025 Press Release

Zwift just released their latest “This Season on Zwift” announcement detailing key game features, Companion app updates, events, and hardware news coming in the next few months. We’ve posted the complete press release below, and in the coming days, we’ll dive into some of the announcements in more detail.

There’s some fun stuff here, so let’s get on with it…

Personalized Recommendations, New Zwift Click Controllers and Much More Promise To Make It Easier To Level Up Your Fitness

Plus Many More Updates Landing This Season on Zwift, Including New Roads, Events and Racing Improvements

Zwift, the global online fitness platform for cyclists, today announces a series of updates and content experiences that promise to make it easier than ever before to level up your fitness. From AI-driven personalized recommendations designed to help Zwifters hit their goals to updated Zwift Click Controllers that unlock the full Zwift experience to new roads that encourage Zwifters to explore more, there is something new for every rider This Season On Zwift.

Zwift Ready & New Zwift Click Controllers

Shipping from September 9

Launched in 2024, the Zwift Ready program makes getting started on Zwift easier and more affordable. Zwift Ready trainers come with the Zwift Cog pre-installed, providing compatibility with virtually any bike, and with Zwift Click included, riders have everything they need to begin their journey in Watopia. In 2025, the Zwift Ready program is expanding with more variety than ever before, and with costs starting from as little as €250 // £279.99 // $299.99. Zwift Ready trainers will be available from Wahoo, Elite, Van Rysel, JetBlack, and Garmin-Tacx (USA only). 

Shipping from September 9th, the new Zwift Click controllers unlock the full Zwift experience thanks to integrated navigation and shortcut buttons, similar to those seen on Zwift Ride, and previously Zwift Play controllers. The new Zwift Click retains the ability for riders to mount the controllers in almost any location and they are compatible with all handlebar types. To ensure it can be placed in almost any location, the new Zwift Click allows you to customise the button configuration to orient your Zwift Click however you like. 

Zwift Cog and Click upgrade kits for all Zwift Cog-compatible trainers are available to pre-order from Zwift.com now, and will ship from September 9th. 

Levelling Up Your Fitness – Personalized Recommendations, Auto-Adjusting Goals & Improved Onboarding

Launching November

Building on the success of Fitness Trends, which rolled out earlier this summer, Zwift will make it easier for Zwifters to level up their fitness with the introduction of Auto-Adjusted Goals and Personalized recommendations.

From September, an improved onboarding experience will make it easier for Zwifters to set up connections with their outdoor head units from Wahoo, Garmin and Hammerhead. Zwifters connecting their outdoor accounts will not only benefit from additional XP for their outdoor rides, but they will also be able to track their Fitness Trends in Zwift Companion and set goals based on their past activities. Now, when Zwifters set goals, they will have the ability to set these to Auto-Adjust. Using the last several weeks of indoor and outdoor data, Zwift will adjust your upcoming weekly target goal, helping to support your continual development.

From November, Zwift promises to take things to the next level with Personalized Recommendations. Powered by AI, Personalized Recommendations will serve content tailored to help each Zwifter hit their goals. Recommendations served will account for recent training load, based on both indoor and outdoor (when connected) activity, riding preferences, including activity types, and much more, meaning Zwifters can jump in with one click, allowing them to spend more time riding and less time choosing. 

Using the ‘Tune button’ Zwifters will have the ability to choose from a mix of content types, including workouts, routes, events and Robo Pacer rides, helping preserve variety. However, with each recommendation accounting for recent ride history and personal goals, Zwifters can be assured that whatever activity they choose, it will be both productive and fun. Further, Zwifters will also have the option to adjust the duration of content – because sometimes life gets in the way.

For those who have connections in place with external coaching apps like TrainerRoad, these will take preference on the Home Screen. Zwifters will still have the option to ‘tune’ these activities should they wish to mix things up.

Personalized Recommendations will display both in the home screen in the main Zwift App and also in Zwift Companion.

Progress Report Screen

Launching November

Upon completion of an activity, Zwifters will now be taken to an updated Progress Report Screen. Here, Zwift will display a summary of all key information, including fitness score progression, training status, goal progression, current streak, bike upgrade progression, level progress, racing score improvements, and much more. This display will show at the end of any activity before returning to the home screen. Post-activity, Zwifters will have the ability to go deeper into these metrics using Fitness Trends in the Zwift Companion app.

Zwift Unlocked – An Entirely New Tour 

October 6-November 16

Running October 6th to November 16th, Zwift Unlocked is an entirely new Zwift Tour, replacing the Tour of Watopia. Like its predecessor, Zwift Unlocked offers double XP but brings with it 10 entirely new routes across multiple Zwift Worlds. Zwifters will have the ability to ride or race each stage, with long and short options on offer throughout. 

The Big Apple Just Got Bigger – New York Expansion

Launching October 27

The final two stages of Zwift Unlocked will take place on a freshly expanded New York map. This expansion will be Zwift’s largest map expansion in years, adding 31km of new roads to New York, including 20 new routes (16 bike and 4 run).

The expansion will take Zwifters out of Zwift’s futuristic Central Park, into the city and out to Prospect Park via New York’s subway network.

Power Segments

Launching October 27

Within the subways of New York, Zwifters will also find a new segment feature, Power Segments, launching with this expansion. Power Segments are a new take on Zwift’s timed Sprint Segments, where pure wattage is all that matters. Hit the start arch and hammer until the timer hits zero to try and average the highest watts possible. Upon completion of a segment, Zwifters will see their personal result and how it compares with their efforts over the previous 90 days – this is primarily a challenge of personal achievement. Zwifters will also see how they rank against the global community, with the overall leaderboard displayed shortly after the personal results screen. Power Segments will eventually roll out to other Zwift Worlds over time. 

Zwift Racing

Season Long

The Home of Community Racing is geared up to deliver the best season of competition to date. Whether it’s Zwift Racing League, starting on September 16th, zRacing, Zwift Games, any one of the 1000’s of community-run race events, or if lycra isn’t your thing, there’s even the Virtual Brompton World Championships in November – there really is something for everyone!

Helping make community racing fairer and more competitive, there are numerous improvements coming to the racing scene, beginning this September. Zwift Racing Score is now established as the default racing categorisation system, and the 11 categories now used for Zwift events have made racing even more competitive by keeping the competition more closely matched. 

The latest changes to Zwift Racing Score have seen ‘score decay’ introduced for racers who haven’t competed in the last 30 days, updated seed scores based on your most recent personal bests (inside or outside of races), and a new option for event organisers to categorise riders by their 30-day best score, not just their current score. These changes ensure your score reflects your current peak fitness, instantly rewards strong performances, keeps matchmaking dynamic, and makes races feel fairer and more competitive for everyone on the start line.

To help keep racing fairer, Zwift is also rolling out new anti-botting detection. This is live and has been actively identifying suspicious activity. Accounts flagged by this technology are moving through our standard enforcement pipeline, helping us clean up racing, protect leaderboard integrity, and stop unfair XP farming. The same system is laying the groundwork for a new generation of anti-cheating technology designed to detect and eliminate unrealistic performances and make racing on Zwift even more authentic over time.

Brompton World Championship

November 17-23

“Tweed Is Speed.” The world’s most dapper race has arrived on Zwift. A week-long Virtual Brompton World Championship race series event is set to be held in Zwift’s London. Races will be held on custom routes (short and long options) and all entrants will be able to unlock the very special Tweed Kit! Of course, the Brompton will be available to purchase in the Drop Shop from November as well.

Event Cooldown

Live Now

The fun shouldn’t stop when you cross the finish line. Now, when Zwifters complete a Zwift group event they will have the option to stay in the event world to cool down. This update aims to improve event experience by extending the opportunity to continue the conversation, reminisce about the epic battle that went down, share a funny moment, connect on Zwift Companion, or discuss plans for your next activity much like you would after completing an outdoor event. One extra loop, anyone?

Zwift Camp: Baseline

September 15-October 19

Zwift Camp: Baseline proved to be Zwift’s most popular workout series of all time, and returns bigger and better for 2025. Zwift Camp will consist of three distinct camps throughout the year: Baseline, Build, and Breakthrough. Designed to follow the structure of winter training, Zwift Camp has been designed to allow Zwifters to complete one or multiple camps. Beginning September 15th, Zwift Camp: Baseline is your launchpad for the season ahead. The four workouts are a chance to set your baseline fitness and lock in your best season yet. 

Head over to your personalized Zwift Camp: Baseline dashboard here – zwift.com/zwift-camp/dashboard

The Drop

Dropping September 25

MyCanyon colorways are landing in the Drop Shop on September 25th. This will be the first time Zwifters can purchase bikes with distinct colorways in the Drop Shop. From launch, Zwifters can choose from four designs from the Opus Collection, the Fabrio Collection, and the Mano Collection. Stay tuned for more Drops coming to the Drop Shop this season!

Watopia Essentials Collection

On Sale September 16

Born from a partnership with Pedal Mafia, the Watopia Essentials Collection is an investment in your cycling journey, bringing the highest quality cycling apparel to Zwifters indoors and outdoors. On and off-bike apparel will be available to purchase in the US, UK and EU from Zwift.com. Zwifters located in Australia will also be able to access the collection from pedalmafia.cc.  

To find out more about This Season on Zwift, visit zwift.com/this-season-on-zwift

Your Thoughts

What do you think of Zwift’s plans for the next few months? Share below!

Zwift harnesses AI for personalised indoor ride recommendations

Artificial intelligence (AI) is coming to Zwift this autumn, in the form of personalised recommendations for indoor rides and workouts.

With autumn on the horizon, Zwift has announced the latest round of updates to the popular indoor cycling app.

While the new AI tool is said to help “take out the cognitive load of figuring out what to do” on Zwift, there’s also a new world expansion, a new set of controllers, updates to racing categorisations and anti-cheat tools, and much more.

For an in-depth look at the new controllers, check out our Zwift Click v2 first look. Otherwise, read on for the lowdown on everything new coming to Zwift this season.

Less time choosing, more time riding

AI ride recommendations on Zwift
Riders can tune AI recommendations to better match their preferences. Zwift

According to Zwift, a big friction point for newer riders is working out what to do when they load up the app.

With so many routes, group rides, events, races and workouts available, the amount of choice can be overwhelming.

With its new AI tool, Zwift will offer personalised recommendations to riders at the top of the app homepage, with a suggested ride designed to account for your goals, preferences and current training load.

Rather than simply suggesting structured workouts every time, Zwift says its AI tool will recommend “a mix of routes, workouts, Robopacer rides & events allowing Zwifters to maintain variety“.

Riders will also be able to “tune” the recommendations around variables such as time, activity type, structure and more.

AI ride recommendations on Zwift
Recommended rides will appear on the home screen when you load up the Zwift app. Zwift

According to Zwift, the new AI tool is designed to help you “get fitter faster” and has been enabled by a recent update that allowed riders to track and gain experience points (XP) from outdoor rides, among other things.

The brand says its AI tool can leverage this data to gain a better understanding of a rider’s current fitness level and training loads, helping to improve its own recommendations.

Zwift says the tool is set to launch in November, and while it won’t offer ‘training periodisation’ at launch, the brand said it hopes to expand the tool’s capabilities in the future.

Zwift progress report
The end-of-ride progress report screen has had an overhaul. Zwift

This update launches alongside updates to the ‘progress report’ that shows at the end of activities.

Upon finishing a ride, Zwift will display an in-depth summary of key metrics and information, including fitness score and goal progression, training status, level progress, racing score changes and so on.

Zwift also says its ‘goals’ feature – which is based on weekly riding goals riders can set for themselves – will now be able to update automatically to encourage continuous improvement.

At launch, Zwift says the auto-adjusting goals feature will be relatively simple, but that it has “big visions” for how it can be improved in the future.

The big apple is getting bigger

Zwift New York expansion
Zwift’s New York world is getting a significant expansion Zwift

In its “largest map expansion in years”, Zwift is updating its iconic New York world with 31km of new virtual roads towards the end of October.

The expansion will include 16 new rideable routes (plus four for runners), taking riders out of the map’s futuristic Central Park area and to Prospect Park via the subway network.

While the original Central Park area has a few short, sharp climbs, Zwift says the Prospect Park expansion will feature “fast rolling roads” and iconic New York locations such as the Brooklyn Bridge.

Zwift power PR segments
Zwift’s new “power segments” challenge riders to set new short-term PRs. Zwift

Zwift also says it’s adding what it calls ‘power segments’ to the New York subway, which encourage riders to go for personal bests over short durations, from 5-30 seconds.

The goal with power segments is to set the highest average power possible, with efforts being recorded on in-game leaderboards.

Zwift says it intends the segments to be “primarily a challenge of personal achievement”, and so will display results compared to your previous efforts over the past 90 days, with community leaderboards following afterwards.

The brand says power segments will “roll out to other Zwift Worlds over time”.

Making Zwift racing fairer and more competitive

Zwift racing fall 2025
Zwift intends to keep refining its virtual racing formula to make things fairer and more competitive. Zwift

Zwift racing has exploded in popularity in recent years, helping riders get their competitive fix from the comfort of their own home/shed.

From this month, Zwift says it is introducing a range of new features designed to make racing fairer and more competitive.

For a start, Zwift Racing Score now features ‘score decay’.

Designed for racers who haven’t competed in the previous 30 days, this will update your racing score – the measure used to categorise riders within events – based on your most recent personal bests.

Event organisers will also gain the option to categorise riders according to their 30-day best score, rather than only their current score.

The idea is to help a rider’s racing scores better reflect their current fitness levels, reward strong performances and help keep races fair and competitive.

Zwift racing fall 2025
New anti-cheat systems are being implemented to ensure you’re always racing against real people producing real efforts. Zwift

According to Zwift, racing on its platform is now 64 per cent “closer” year-on-year – meaning the gap between the top and bottom finishers in each race is now significantly smaller than before.

The goal, Zwift says, is to make it so that “anybody of any ability can hop in and find a race they are competitive in”.

Beyond this, Zwift says it’s also “rolling out new anti-botting detection”, to detect suspicious activity on the platform, and combat cheating, bots and XP farming.

Accounts “flagged” by these tools will move “through our standard enforcement pipeline”, but the brand says this “is laying the groundwork for a new generation of anti-cheating technology”.

Brompton World Championships come to Zwift

Zwift Brompton World Championships
The Brompton World Championships are coming to Zwift this autumn. Zwift

In terms of events, there are a whole host of challenges to take on this season.

Replacing the Tour of Watopia, a new double-XP event series called ‘Zwift Unlocked’ is coming to the platform from 6 October to 16 November.

As well as helping riders level up faster, Zwift Unlocked will feature 10 new routes across multiple Zwift roads.

Zwift Unlocked events will be available as both group rides and races, with options for short and long distances.

Zwift Unlocked
Zwift Unlocked replaces the Tour of Watopia as the platform’s premier double-XP event. Zwift

Beyond that, there’s the usual Zwift Racing League, zRacing, Zwift Games and thousands of community events.

And if that wasn’t enough, the virtual Brompton World Championships are coming to Zwift this November.

As the name suggests, this event sees riders all aboard the British brand’s iconic folding bike, with an additional twist of everyone wearing a tweed outfit.

Zwift says riders can unlock the tweed outfit for their avatar simply by participating in a Brompton World Championships event, and can permanently unlock the Brompton folding bike via the Drop Shop.

Strava updates Apple Watch app with ‘game-like features’ and more

Strava has launched its new redesigned app for the Apple Watch, which now features a “performance-focused” interface, Strava’s Live Segments, performance tracking and more.

The update follows an increase in users uploading activities from Apple Watches. Strava says there was a nearly 20 per cent year-over-year increase in athletes using an Apple Watch in 2024.

“Apple Watch has become an increasingly popular wearable for athletes on Strava,” says Matt Salazar, chief product officer at Strava. “This investment in Apple Watch is more than just tracking a workout – it’s about delivering the real-time, game-like features athletes love to motivate them in the moment.”

So what’s new? 

Graphic showing screens of Strava Apple Watch app.
Strava’s Apple Watch app now includes Live Segments. Strava

Strava says it made several key updates to the Apple Watch app, including bringing its Live Segments feature to the smartwatch

Live Segments enable you to compete against yourself or other Strava users on starred or popular segments.

“On Apple Watch, Live Segments are intuitive and motivating,” says Strava. “As athletes approach a segment, a banner with the segment name and a circle indicator appears on the watch face. As they enter the segment, the circle updates in real time to reflect progress, providing a clear visual cue that shows whether the athlete is ahead or behind their personal record.” 

Strava also says you will receive a haptic cue when entering a Live Segment. And once you’ve completed the segment, your result will be displayed instantly before the app transitions back to the standard recording screen. 

Elsewhere, Strava says its Apple Watch app will now enable you to see stats at a glance, including pace, distance, time and heart rate

Streamlined syncing is said to make uploading directly to Strava “automatic and reliable”.

Extra features for Strava subscribers

If you’re a subscriber to Strava, you will have access to more features on the Apple Watch.

The live performance tracking means you’ll be able to see how your current pace compares to your personal best in real time. 

The Live Segments feature is also enhanced for paid subscribers. With a subscription, you will have a countdown showing exactly how much distance remains in a segment. You’ll also be able to see how your completed segment time compares to your personal best immediately. 

Integration between Apple Fitness+ and Strava

The update to Strava’s Apple Watch app follows the enhanced integration between Apple Fitness+ and Strava, which was announced in January of this year. 

Strava teamed up with Apple’s fitness and wellness service to offer “more value, inspiration, and motivation”, thanks to three new features.

The integration between the two services enables users to track and share their Fitness+ workouts on Strava, and Strava subscribers can also unlock a three-month trial of Apple Fitness+ at no additional cost.

It was also revealed that Fitness+ would debut workouts featuring top athletes from Strava, including runners Hellah Sidibe and Kayla Jeter. 

You may like

UCI firmly condemns actions of pro-Palestine protesters at La Vuelta and reaffirms political neutrality

The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) has said it “firmly condemns” the actions that led to the neutralisation of stage 11 of La Vuelta a España yesterday. 

With roughly 20km to go on the 157.4km stage, starting and ending in Bilbao, the race organisers announced the stage would end 3km early due to pro-Palestine protesters. 

In a statement released last night, the UCI said: “The UCI reiterates the fundamental importance of the political neutrality of sports organisations within the Olympic Movement, as well as the unifying and pacifying role of sport. Major international sporting events embody a spirit of unity and dialogue, transcending differences and divisions.” 

“The UCI would also like to reiterate that sport, and cycling in particular, has a role to play in bringing people together and overcoming barriers between them, and should under no circumstances be used as a tool for punishment,” it went on. 

The UCI added that staff and riders at La Vuelta should be able to “practise their profession and pursue their passion in optimal conditions of safety and serenity”. 

Police and pro-Palestine protestors at the finish line of stage 11 of La Vuelta.
Police and pro-Palestine protestors at the finish line of stage 11 of La Vuelta. Tim de Waele / Getty Images

La Vuelta decided not to award a stage winner or award points for the points classification, with only points obtained at the mountain passes and intermediate sprints retained. 

The race organisers also “strongly condemned” the protests in a statement released after the stage, adding that: “La Vuelta respects and defends the right to peaceful demonstration within the context of the event, but cannot tolerate any acts that put at risk the physical safety of participants or any member of the race caravan.” 

Britain’s Tom Pidcock (Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team) was at the front of the race with general classification leader Jonas Vingegaard (Visma–Lease a Bike) when the decision to shorten the stage was announced. 

After the stage, he expressed frustration at missing his chance for a stage win. “I’m not saying I would have won, but I think I had a good chance to win,” said Pidcock.

“I felt like today was my day, but I feel like there always should be a finish line,” he added.  “We’re not riding a fucking sportive are we?”

“Putting us in danger isn’t going to help your cause. It’s not going to help what they’re protesting for,” Pidcock added. “Everyone’s got a right to protest whatever they want, but putting us in danger is not the way forward.”

The pro-Palestine protests at La Vuelta have primarily been against the participation of Israel–Premier Tech – the team co-owned by Sylvan Adams, a Canadian-Israeli businessman who is a vocal supporter of Israel and a citizen of the country. 

Israel–Premier Tech said they would not withdraw from the race, saying the team “remains committed” to La Vuelta. 

The team added: “Any other course of action sets a dangerous precedent in the sport of cycling not only for Israel–Premier Tech, but for all teams. Israel–Premier Tech has repeatedly expressed its respect for everyone’s right to protest, as long as those protests remain peaceful and do not compromise the safety of the peloton.

“We thank the race organizers and UCI for their continued support and cooperation, as well as the teams and riders that have expressed their support both publicly and privately and, of course, our fans.”

Police guard the Israel–Premier Tech team bus at La Vuelta.
Police guard the Israel–Premier Tech team bus at La Vuelta. Dario Belingheri / Getty Images

Israel–Premier Tech’s team time trial was disrupted by protestors last week, and other demonstrators entered the course on stage 10, after which Simone Petilli (Intermarché-Wanty) crashed. 

Petilli, who fell but finished the stage, wrote on X: “I understand that is not a good situation, but yesterday I crashed because of a Protest on the road.”

“Please, we are just Cyclists and we are doing our Job, but if it will continue like this our safety is not guaranteed anymore, and we feel in danger! We just want to race! Please,” he added.

There were meetings between the riders’ union, the Cyclistes Professionels Associés (CPA), and the race organisers before stage 11, with riders saying they would ride as long as protests were peaceful. 

There have been pro-Palestine protests at all three of this year’s Grand Tours. 

The Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) Movement called for peaceful protests in April at this year’s Grand Tours against the participation of Israel–Premier Tech.

The BDS Movement said in April: “As Israel escalates its ongoing genocide against 2.3 million Palestinians in Gaza and its violent military occupation of the West Bank, international sporting bodies have a moral obligation to take all measures to prevent genocide, or risk being held criminally liable.”

There have also been objections to the inclusion of Israel–Premier Tech at La Vuelta from Spanish political parties. Izquierda Unida and EH Bildu both called for the team’s exclusion from the race. 

Read more

No winner on stage 11 of La Vuelta due to pro-Palestine protests

There was no winner on stage 11 of the Vuelta a España in Bilbao today after pro-Palestine protestors disrupted the finish, with the general classification times taken with 3km to go. 

Protestors disrupted the race throughout the day, displaying flags and banners, with others encroaching on the race. 

The peloton was briefly stopped during the neutral zone at the beginning of the day as protestors entered the course. Later, Mads Pedersen was impeded on the intermediate sprint with 38km, and protesters ran onto the penultimate climb of the day, causing the peloton to change course. Images show riot police at the finish in Bilbao working to hold the crowds back.

Towards the end of the stage, the race organisers announced that there would be no winner.

“Due to some incidents at the finish line, we have decided to take the time at 3 kilometres before the line. We won’t have a stage winner. We will give the points for the mountain classification and the intermediate sprint, but not on the finish line,” the organisers said, according to Cycling Weekly

TOPSHOT - Basque regional police 'Ertzaintza' officer lifts a truncheon as pro-Palestinian protesters holding Palestinian flags demonstrate during the eleventh stage of the Vuelta a Espana cycling tour, a 167 km race from Bilbao to Bilbao, on September 3, 2025. (Photo by ANDER GILLENEA / AFP) (Photo by ANDER GILLENEA/AFP via Getty Images)
Police hold back protesters at La Vuelta. Ander Gillenea / Getty Images

The decision didn’t halt the GC battle.

Race leader Jonas Vingegaard (Visma–Lease a Bike) and Tom Pidcock (Q36.5 Pro Cycling) attacked in the closing kilometres of the stage to gain time over João Almeida (UAE Team Emirates–XRG), who is currently second in the general classification, and was in a group behind Vingegaard and Pidcock. 

Stage 11’s neutralised finish follows a string of protests over the presence of Israel–Premier Tech at the race.

Last week, protesters disrupted Israel–Premier Tech’s team time trial. And yesterday, demonstrators disrupted stage 10, which led to Wanty–Intermarché’s Simone Petilli crashing. 

Although he finished the stage, Petilli later called for calm. The Wanty–Intermarché rider said on X: “I understand that is not a good situation, but yesterday I crashed because of a Protest on the road.”

“Please, we are just Cyclists and we are doing our Job, but if it will continue like this our safety is not guaranteed anymore, and we feel in danger! We just want to race! Please,” he added.

The riders’ union, the Cyclistes Professionels Associés (CPA), also met with the race organisers before stage 11 began to discuss how to deal with the protests, allegedly stating they would ride as long as protests remained peaceful.  

“We feel in danger” – tension mounts at La Vuelta amid protests against Israel–Premier Tech’s inclusion 

Tension is mounting at the Vuelta a España amid protests over Israel–Premier Tech’s presence in the race. The riders’ union, the Cyclistes Professionels Associés (CPA), has met with race organisers to discuss how to approach the issue, and individual riders have called for calm and greater safety. 

Demonstrators have lined the roads waving Palestine flags at the race, and last week saw protestors disrupt Israel–Premier Tech’s individual time trial. 

Now the protests against the team, which is co-owned by Canadian–Israeli businessman Sylvan Adams, who is a vocal supporter of Israel, have affected other riders.

Wanty–Intermarché’s Simone Petilli crashed on yesterday’s stage 10 to Belagua after three protesters with Palestinian flags entered the course and the peloton tried to avoid them. 

| La Vuelta Euskal Herrian barrena dabil gaur eta bihar, @IsraelPremTech talde sionistaren presentziaren aurkako protesten erdian. Begira zer gertatu den Irunberrin.

GENOZIDAK EZ DIRA ONGI ETORRIAK EUSKAL HERRIAN! #LaVuelta25 #StopGazaGenocide‌NOW pic.twitter.com/rimAvHPRTo

— Malcolm iXa (@ideiazabaldub) September 2, 2025

Petilli, who fell but finished the stage, wrote on X: “I understand that is not a good situation, but yesterday I crashed because of a Protest on the road.”

“Please, we are just Cyclists and we are doing our Job, but if it will continue like this our safety is not guaranteed anymore, and we feel in danger! We just want to race! Please,” he added. 

Adam Hansen, the president of the CPA, said on X: “We remind everyone that cyclists are not involved in political or social disputes — they are simply doing their job: racing. Their safety must never be put at risk.

“While we respect the right to peaceful protest, actions that endanger athletes cannot be accepted. Rider safety must remain the highest priority.

“The CPA stands firmly with the riders: they just want to race in safe conditions.”

Soudal–QuickStep’s Louis Vervaeke also took to X, asking protesters not to endanger riders or themselves. “We fully acknowledge that everyone has the right to protest. However, we kindly ask that this be done in a safe manner. Our focus here is on our sport, not on politics or any particular position in this matter,” said Vervaeke

Before the start of stage 11 in Bilbao, there were meetings between the CPA and the race organisers, and several teams have registered their interest for Israel–Premier Tech to withdraw from the race, according to journalist Daniel Friebe. 

The peloton was stopped in the neutral zone of stage 11 when pro-Palestine protesters blocked the road.

Elia Viviani, a representative of the CPA at the race, told Friebe that: “riders said to commissaires/race organisation they would ride as long as protests are peaceful. If race gets stopped, riders will reassess.”

Friebe added: “Viviani also said CPA wouldn‘t demand Israel-Premier Tech riders pull out. ‘We wouldn’t go against our colleagues’.”

Elia Viviani at La Vuelta 2025.
Elia Viviani told Daniel Friebe that the CPA wouldn’t demand Israel–Premier Tech riders pull out from the race. Tim de Waele/ Getty images

Friebe also said on X that riders want the UCI to intervene. “They feel exposed on an issue that’s beyond their knowledge/expertise/desire to expose private position,” he wrote on X. 

Basque political party EH Bildu called for Israel–Premier Tech’s withdrawal from the Vuelta.

“Israel is not welcome in the Basque Country and we urge the withdrawal of the Israel-Premier Tech cycling team from La Vuelta 2025,” the party said in a statement, according to the Domestique. “We do not want a team that represents a genocidal state in our country. It is unacceptable that sport be used to whitewash genocide.”

Spanish political party Izquierda Unida also asked the government to propose to the Vuelta organisers that Israel–Premier Tech be excluded from the race. 

The protests at the Vuelta follow demonstrations at the Tour de France and Giro d’Italia. An activist from Extinction Rebellion was arrested at the Tour de France after running onto the final straight on stage 11 wearing a T-shirt that read ‘Israel out of the Tour’ while waving a keffiyeh scarf.

The Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) Movement called for peaceful protests in April at this year’s Grand Tours against the participation of Israel–Premier Tech. 

The BDS Movement said: “As Israel escalates its ongoing genocide against 2.3 million Palestinians in Gaza and its violent military occupation of the West Bank, international sporting bodies have a moral obligation to take all measures to prevent genocide, or risk being held criminally liable.”

Two former Israel–Premier Tech riders have commented on no longer riding for the team in light of Israel’s war on Gaza. Alessandro de Marchi said he was “relieved” not to be cycling for them anymore and Jakob Fuglsang said that since retirement it has been “nicer to ride without an Israel logo than with it”. 

Derek Gee also terminated his Israel–Premier Tech contract last month, stating that “certain issues simply made my continuation at the team untenable”.

Israel–Premier Tech has been contacted for comment.

New Fulcrum Soniq 42 wheels provide ‘maximum comfort’ thanks to special carbon lamination 

Fulcrum says its new Soniq 42 wheels “maximise comfort” thanks to their FF80 carbon lamination rims, while the sawtooth rim profile optimises aerodynamics and stability.

These features are a combination of technology that debuted on Fulcrum’s most recent wheels. The carbon lamination appeared on Fulcrum’s Wind wheels in 2023 and the ‘2-Wave’ rim profile is borrowed from its more recent Sharq wheels.

Fulcrum says the Soniq 42 is suitable for road and gravel riding. “It’s the ideal choice for anyone seeking a unique, distinctive, and functional wheel – ready to handle any road with ease and unmistakable style,” the brand says. 

Maximum comfort

Fulcrum Soniq 42 carbon wheels.
The wheels are suitable for road and gravel riding. Fulcrum

While Fulcrum hasn’t given much away about its FF80 lamination, it says the carbon design provides “maximum comfort, especially on long rides and mixed surfaces”. 

When it launched the Wind wheels, Fulcrum also said the FF80 mix helped keep weight down compared to the carbon used in the Fulcrum Speed wheels, which had the same rim shape. So this carbon contributes to the Soniq’s claimed weight of 1,595g, too. 

The Soniq 42 has Fulcrum’s 2-Way Fit technology, where an undrilled rim bed means you can fit tubeless tyres without rim tape. 

“This makes the wheel not only stronger but also easier to manage and maintain – making Soniq 42 ideal for both seasoned cyclists and those seeking a high-quality, hassle-free product,” says Fulcrum. 

2-Wave rim 

Fulcrum Soniq 42 carbon wheels.
The rim depth varies from 42 to 47mm. Fulcrum

The most distinctive feature of the Soniq 42 is the sawtooth rim, which it borrows from the Sharq wheels. 

It’s a design we’ve seen from other brands, such as Zipp and Princeton CarbonWorks, and Fulcrum says it “optimises aerodynamics and stability”.

Fulcrum hasn’t gone into any more detail, but if the rim is identical to that of its Sharq wheels, it should save 21 per cent energy at 0-10 degrees of yaw, and 29 per cent at 10-20 degrees.

Due to the wavy design, the rim depth varies from 42 to 47mm. Fulcrum says this “contributes to the wheel’s dynamic and responsive behavior”. 

The rim has an internal width of 25mm. 

A hub derived from the Wind series

Fulcrum Soniq 42 carbon wheels hub.
Fulcrum says the hub design “ensures long-lasting smooth rolling”. Fulcrum

Fulcrum says the hub on the Soniq 42 wheels is “derived” from the hub used on its Wind wheels.

With an aluminium body, the hub has sealed bearings and preload adjustment. Fulcrum says this “ensures long-lasting smooth rolling” for a “solid and precise ride feel”.  

The new Soniq 42 wheelset costs £1,599.99 / $2,079 / €1,590. 

You may like 

This rider’s simple homemade energy gel recipe saves him $300 a month and can be made anywhere

A Canadian endurance rider has turned to homemade energy gels to fuel his training, claiming his simple DIY recipe cut his nutrition costs by more than $70 a week – and it’s easy enough for any rider to create their own at home.

Oliver Dowd says he began experimenting with gels after realising the volume he needed for long rides made shop-bought products unaffordable. “I wanted the convenience of gels in training,” he explains, “but with the amount I was going through, I couldn’t afford to buy them.”

Dowd consumes between 25 and 30 gels each week. At retail prices, that would typically cost him around $80. 

By mixing his own using little more than sugar, sodium alginate and water flavouring, he estimates he spends only $5 per week.

Each serving contains around 70g of carbohydrate – “the important metric everyone cares about,” he says in a video posted on his Instagram feed – putting his recipe in line with commercial gels.

Dowd originally developed the recipe while preparing for an attempt at the cross-Canada cycling record, which was derailed after an accident left him injured. 

“I needed a way to make gels in a hotel room with no stove,” he says. A friend suggested sodium alginate as a substitute for cooking down the mixture, enabling him to refine the formula. Sodium alginate is used by brands, including Maurten, to create a gel-like consistency. 

Before the accident, Dowd tested the gels during two days of back-to-back riding, consuming 15 servings per day without any stomach issues. 

He hasn’t ruled out another record attempt in future, but admits it is “a lot to ask [of] my friends to take that much vacation to support me for two years in a row”.

For now, the gels remain his go-to fuelling option for training and long rides. “After tonnes of long rides as my main fuel source, I can confirm they do work,” he says.

Want to make your own?

Dowd developed the recipe ahead of a trans-Canadian record attempt. Oliver Dowd

SQUIRREL_PLAYLIST_10207918

Oliver Dowd’s simple energy gel recipe

  1. Place 70 g of sugar and a pinch (about 1/8 teaspoon) of sodium alginate into a measuring cup
  2. Pour in boiling water until the total volume reaches 100ml
  3. Mix thoroughly until all the dry ingredients dissolve. You may need to add a little more water to maintain 100ml
  4. Stir in a liquid flavouring, such as Kraft Heinz’s Mio or another water enhancer
  5. Once the mixture has cooled slightly, pour it into soft, reusable containers or silicone bottles for use on the bike

Dowd packages the gels in refillable silicone travel bottles bought online. 

He says these are “no more messy than a regular gel” and reduce the waste of single-use wrappers. While the flavour doesn’t quite match his favourite store-bought options, he describes it as “good enough to eat for the whole day”.

Chris Froome suffered life-threatening heart injury in crash 

Chris Froome suffered a life-threatening injury to his heart in a crash, alongside a broken back and ribs. 

The four-time Tour de France champion was airlifted to hospital last Wednesday after he collided with a road sign at more than 30mph.

Initially, Israel–Premier Tech, Froome’s team, reported that he had sustained a collapsed lung, five broken ribs and a lumbar vertebrae fracture. However, during surgery, doctors discovered the 40-year-old Briton had sustained a pericardial rupture, which is a tear to the sac that surrounds the heart and is usually the result of a blunt impact.

“It was obviously a lot more serious than some broken bones,” Michelle Froome, his wife, told The Times. “He’s fine but it’s going to be a long recovery process.”

Chris Froome’s surgery took place at the Sainte Anne Toulon military hospital, which is the highest-level trauma centre in the region and specialises in thoracic surgery. 

French newspaper L’Equipe reported that Froome remained conscious after the crash and was able to speak to those around him.

Froome, who is out of a contract for the end of the year, previously suggested 2025 could be his final year of competitive racing – and the crash could bring an end to his professional career. 

“He won’t be riding a bike for a while. Chris is happy for you to share this because people need to understand what is going on,” said Michelle Froome. 

Froome is one of the world’s most decorated professional cyclists. He has won a total of seven Grand Tours. He won his first Tour de France title in 2013, followed by consecutive victories in 2015–2017. He has also won one edition of the Giro d’Italia and two editions of the Vuelta a España.

Froome suffered a heavy crash at the Critérium du Dauphiné in 2019, which saw him taken into intensive care.

Join Team Italy: More Rides, ZRL Teams, Pizza and Fun!

Team Italy is a longstanding Zwift club and racing team that helps riders of all abilities improve their fitness while having fun and competing in a supportive environment.

The Zwift Italy/Team Italy community was founded on January 4, 2017, with the goal of creating an all-Italian community on Zwift. Our numbers keep on growing thanks to inspiring leaders who motivate Zwifters from Italy and around the world to join our rides. Participation is also strong among women, thanks to our legendary “Pink Ladies!”

We proudly take part in the Zwift Racing League with both male and female teams. A big applause goes to our ZRL captains, who are reaching important goals and growing their leadership skills. We also have the Zwift Running Italy group for runners!

Our community is growing across all social channels, and Team Italy is active on Zwift Companion too. The Italian presence is strong and engaged — we want to play a significant role in the global Zwift community!

The club hosts ten group rides every week, including:

  • Social rides for beginners
  • Competitive training sessions
  • A climbing & endurance event
  • The famous Burn Calories Ride (perfect for pizza lovers)

We ride to train, but we also ride to enjoy more pizza and pasta — our special combo! Our ride leaders and our amazing red broom wagon make every event welcoming and fun.

Our weekly Rides include:

  • Fat Burn Ride
  • Super Early Ride
  • Social SUB2 Ride
  • Burn Calories Together Ride
  • Endurance – Badge Hunting Ride
  • Morning Early Ride
  • Monday Afternoon Relax w/Rubberband Ride
  • Smile! It’s Tuesday Ride
  • Coffee Italian Ride
  • Hunting Ride

See all Team Italy rides at zwift.com/events/tag/teamitaly >

Standing ovation for our Ride Leaders and Sweepers:

Elvira Wilhelm, Lily Franken, Cris Benato, Angela Di Prisco, Marco Xibilia, Simone Maffi, Niccolo’ Martinoli, Christopher Vigna, Andrea Anastasio, Oleg Smirnov, Nacho Rodriguez, Alberto Roncalli, Paolo Cairoli, Jason Taylor, Steffen Riemer, Mario Serratore, Massimo Asti, Eugenio Milano, Angelo Barra, Jim Brauer “Höf”, Jayde Cardoso, Enrico Oggiano, Fabrizio Germani, Thierry Bøudøuresque, Luca Acco, Milo Rad, Sergio Mercky, Felice De Rosa, Rob Julian, Enrico “Groot”, Fabio Benotti, Stefano Vesprini, Massimiliano Caccia, Silvio Coggiola, Marco Tandu, Diego Zanin, Daniele Pascali, Etienne Constant, Robert Jones, Richard Mattinson, Marcello Ferraro, Fabio Cola.

Join us in our events by signing up for Team Italy on Zwift Companion and following us on our social channels (links below).

Zwift Italy and Team Italy are waiting for you — for fun rides, great company, and sharing the Zwift spirit with everyone!

Learn more about Zwift Italy/Team Italy:

Ride On! Ciao.

This spec sheet shouldn’t exist at this price – Cube’s latest gravel bike is absurdly good value

Hidden among Cube’s sprawling 2026 line-up is the Nuroad C:62 SLT – a race-focused carbon gravel bike with a spec sheet list that looks outrageous for the money.

For £5,299 (international pricing TBC), you get a full SRAM Red XPLR groupset with power meter, Newmen Advanced SL X.R.36 Vonoa carbon wheels, and a suite of Cube’s own carbon finishing kit. 

Although a road bike, the Boardman SLR made waves at £5,500 for a similarly top-end build.

The difference is that Cube follows a more traditional dealer-to-shop model, meaning you can buy the Nuroad C:62 SLT at your local bike shop, with all of the benefits that brings.

Male cyclist in green top riding the Specialized S-Works Crux gravel bike, while testing the SRAM Red AXS XPLR groupset
You could have two Nuroad’s for the price of one Crux. Russell Burton / Our Media

Comparing the build to other rivals, and the value is even more stunning.

Specialized is hardly a brand known for wild value for money, but an S-Works level Crux would set you back £11,500 – leaving you change to buy a whole other Nuroad C:62 SLT, and some. 

Trek’s a bit closer at £8,950 for a Red-equipped Checkmate SLR 9 AXS, which features house brand Bontrager wheels, but that’s still significantly more than the Cube.

At least here in the UK, Giant doesn’t appear to offer a Red-equipped version of the Revolt. Regardless, a Force-equipped bike is still more expensive than the Cube, at £5,599 for a build with Giant’s in-house carbon wheels.

Even the usual value leaders like Canyon can’t quite match this spec sheet at the price. The brand’s lowest-priced Red-equipped Grail CFR XPLR is £7,899, although that comes with branded Zipp wheels.

Those aren’t exact like-for-like comparisons – the frameset specs are all very different – but based on build alone, Nuroad C:62 SLT is one of the most remarkably priced high-performance gravel bikes we’ve seen.

Nuroad SLX in bike shop
The alloy Nuroad SLX looks pretty tasty, too. Cube

Alongside the SLT, the brand is also offering aluminium Nuroad models, which look very handsome for the modest asking price.

Pictured is the Nuroad SLX. Priced at just £1,799, it features a GRX-equipped build and Newmen alloy wheels.

The bike includes mounts for racks and clearance for 50mm tyres, and could make a great all-rounder likely to satisfy most gravel riders.

Zwift Climb of the Week Schedule

Zwift began featuring a Climb of the Week in August 2025, giving Zwifters the chance to earn an XP bonus by completing a particular portal climb. Here’s the schedule of featured climbs, including the bonus XP you’ll earn for completing each. (Click climb name for details.)

< September 2025 >
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
1Cheddar Gorge (250XP)Cheddar Gorge (250XP)
2Cheddar Gorge (250XP)Cheddar Gorge (250XP)
3Cheddar Gorge (250XP)Cheddar Gorge (250XP)
4Cheddar Gorge (250XP)Cheddar Gorge (250XP)
5Cheddar Gorge (250XP)Cheddar Gorge (250XP)
6Cheddar Gorge (250XP)Cheddar Gorge (250XP)
7Cheddar Gorge (250XP)Cheddar Gorge (250XP)
8Col de Peyresourde (Avajan) (500XP)Col de Peyresourde (Avajan) (500XP)
9Col de Peyresourde (Avajan) (500XP)Col de Peyresourde (Avajan) (500XP)
10Col de Peyresourde (Avajan) (500XP)Col de Peyresourde (Avajan) (500XP)
11Col de Peyresourde (Avajan) (500XP)Col de Peyresourde (Avajan) (500XP)
12Col de Peyresourde (Avajan) (500XP)Col de Peyresourde (Avajan) (500XP)
13Col de Peyresourde (Avajan) (500XP)Col de Peyresourde (Avajan) (500XP)
14Col de Peyresourde (Avajan) (500XP)Col de Peyresourde (Avajan) (500XP)
15Gotthard Pass (750XP)Gotthard Pass (750XP)
16Gotthard Pass (750XP)Gotthard Pass (750XP)
17Gotthard Pass (750XP)Gotthard Pass (750XP)
18Gotthard Pass (750XP)Gotthard Pass (750XP)
19Gotthard Pass (750XP)Gotthard Pass (750XP)
20Gotthard Pass (750XP)Gotthard Pass (750XP)
21Gotthard Pass (750XP)Gotthard Pass (750XP)
22Cote de Trebiac (250XP)Cote de Trebiac (250XP)
23Cote de Trebiac (250XP)Cote de Trebiac (250XP)
24Cote de Trebiac (250XP)Cote de Trebiac (250XP)
25Cote de Trebiac (250XP)Cote de Trebiac (250XP)
26Cote de Trebiac (250XP)Cote de Trebiac (250XP)
27Cote de Trebiac (250XP)Cote de Trebiac (250XP)
28Cote de Trebiac (250XP)Cote de Trebiac (250XP)
29La Laguna Negra (500XP)La Laguna Negra (500XP)
30La Laguna Negra (500XP)La Laguna Negra (500XP)
         
Categories
 Climb of the Week

Featured climbs switch at 9am Pacific each Monday (noon Eastern, 4pm UTC).

To access the Climb of the Week, begin by clicking the challenge card on the homescreen. Click the climb, confirm your difficulty percentage (you can ride the climb at 50%, 75%, 100%, or 125%), then click Start Ride.

Finish the full climb and you’ll get a completion banner across your screen:

Double Up

The Climb of the Week can be stacked with the Workout of the Week to earn bonus XP extra fast.

To do this, you must first click the Workout of the Week challenge card to be “registered” for the week’s workout challenge.

Next, click the Climb of the Week challenge card, click the featured climb, and enter the game. Once you’re in the game, pull up the list of workouts (use the “E” keyboard shortcut or access it by clicking Menu>Workouts).

Find this week’s featured workout in the workout archive. (If you aren’t sure where to find it, click the workout on the WOTW calendar above to learn where it’s stored.) Load the workout and complete it while completing the Climb of the Week. Double the fun!

Questions or Comments

Questions or comments about the Climb of the Week? Share below!

Beloved British brand releases completely unexpected adventure ‘grountain’ bike

British bicycle company Pashley is known for its classic bike designs, including the Guv‘Nor (a 1930s-style race bike), and the step-through Britannia (complete with a wicker basket). 

Yet the historic brand has modernised its approach in recent years. Pashley has been growing its line-up of electric bikes and, in January, released the Roadfinder SL, which blends the company’s steel frame-building expertise with up-to-date tech such as electronic gears and a SRAM UDH dropout

Now Pashley’s latest bike, the Wildfinder, continues the brand’s change of direction and synthesis of old and new.

The bike is said to be an “all-terrain adventure machine” that is designed to “take a ride on the wild side”. And yes, we are still talking about the company that used to make bikes for the Royal Mail. 

A ‘grountain’ bike

The Pashley Wildfinder gravel bike.
The Pashley Wildfinder gravel bike. Pashley

Pashley’s project design lead, Mark Lloyd, says: “We have designed the Wildfinder to be a drop-bar mountain bike, blurring the lines between gravel and mountain genres (I like to call it a ‘grountain’ bike) primarily designed to be a capable machine for long-distance, multi-day, off-road bikepacking expeditions.”

Lloyd adds that, even if you’re not on a bikepacking trip, the ‘grountain’ bike is equally at home exploring more challenging gravel terrain and singletrack. 

Pashley has built the Wildfinder with this off-road capability and the more extreme end of gravel riding firmly in mind. It says the Wildfinder’s geometry has been suspension corrected, should you wish to run a gravel fork, and there is the option of a RockShox SID SL fork on all complete bikes and frameset options. 

Elsewhere, the bike is UDH compliant, uses a BSA threaded bottom bracket and has external cable routing. Pashley says these features futureproof the bike and make maintenance easier when you’re out “in the wild”. 

Cutting-edge manufacturing and craftsmanship

In keeping with the other gravel bikes in its ‘Finder’ collection, Pashley says the bike blends “cutting-edge manufacturing processes and technology with traditional craftsmanship”.

Pashley’s CEO Andy Smallwood says: “It’s the latest example of true British design and craftsmanship, incorporating the best use of Reynolds steel, all created from start to finish by our team of artisans in our Stratford-upon-Avon workshop right here in the UK.”

The frame is made using Reynolds 853 DZB tubing, which is coated for corrosion protection and has an “extra durable” powder finish, according to Pashley.

It features a 3D-printed junction between the seatstays and top tube, alongside a 3D-printed chainstay yoke, which provides clearance for 29×2.4in tyres and chainrings with up to 42 teeth. The 3D-printed dropouts accommodate a 180mm disc brake rotor, which Pashley says is “essential for fully loaded mountain touring.” 

Mounting points across the frame mean you can fit the Wildfinder with frame bags, cages and racks.

The Wildfinder is available in five sizes (XS to XL) and in three recommended builds, with a choice of Shimano GRX, SRAM Rival and Shimano SLX groupsets, as well as flat or drop handlebars. Prices range from £2,795 / $4,195 to £3,995 / $5,995. 

Zwift Workout of the Week Schedule

Zwift began featuring a Workout of the Week in August 2025, giving Zwifters the chance to earn an XP bonus by completing a particular workout. Here’s the schedule of featured workouts, including the bonus XP you’ll earn for completing each. (Click workout for details.)

< September 2025 >
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
1Jon’s Mix (500XP)Jon’s Mix (500XP)
2Jon’s Mix (500XP)Jon’s Mix (500XP)
3Jon’s Mix (500XP)Jon’s Mix (500XP)
4Jon’s Mix (500XP)Jon’s Mix (500XP)
5Jon’s Mix (500XP)Jon’s Mix (500XP)
6Jon’s Mix (500XP)Jon’s Mix (500XP)
7Jon’s Mix (500XP)Jon’s Mix (500XP)
8Orange Unicorn (750XP)Orange Unicorn (750XP)
9Orange Unicorn (750XP)Orange Unicorn (750XP)
10Orange Unicorn (750XP)Orange Unicorn (750XP)
11Orange Unicorn (750XP)Orange Unicorn (750XP)
12Orange Unicorn (750XP)Orange Unicorn (750XP)
13Orange Unicorn (750XP)Orange Unicorn (750XP)
14Orange Unicorn (750XP)Orange Unicorn (750XP)
15Expand (250XP)Expand (250XP)
16Expand (250XP)Expand (250XP)
17Expand (250XP)Expand (250XP)
18Expand (250XP)Expand (250XP)
19Expand (250XP)Expand (250XP)
20Expand (250XP)Expand (250XP)
21Expand (250XP)Expand (250XP)
22The Kitchen Sink (500XP)The Kitchen Sink (500XP)
23The Kitchen Sink (500XP)The Kitchen Sink (500XP)
24The Kitchen Sink (500XP)The Kitchen Sink (500XP)
25The Kitchen Sink (500XP)The Kitchen Sink (500XP)
26The Kitchen Sink (500XP)The Kitchen Sink (500XP)
27The Kitchen Sink (500XP)The Kitchen Sink (500XP)
28The Kitchen Sink (500XP)The Kitchen Sink (500XP)
29Melange (750XP)Melange (750XP)
30Melange (750XP)Melange (750XP)
         
Categories
 Workout of the Week

Featured workouts switch at 9am Pacific each Monday (noon Eastern, 4pm UTC).

To access the Workout of the Week, begin by clicking the challenge card on the homescreen. Click the workout, click Start Ride, choose your route, and click Start Workout.

Finish the full workout and you’ll get a completion banner across your screen:

Double Up

Workouts of the Week can be stacked with the Route or Climb of the Week to earn bonus XP extra fast.

To do this, you must first click the Workout of the Week challenge card, which brings you to the orange screen shown above. This “registers” you for the week’s workout challenge.

Next, go through either the Route of the Week or Climb of the Week challenge cards to select a challenge and enter the game. Once you’re in the game, pull up the list of workouts (use the “E” keyboard shortcut or access it by clicking Menu>Workouts).

Find this week’s featured workout in the workout archive. (If you aren’t sure where to find it, click the workout on the calendar above to learn where it’s stored.) Load the workout and complete it while completing the Route or Climb of the Week. Double the fun!

Questions or Comments

Questions or comments about the Workout of the Week? Share below!

New Pinarello F-series frameset weighs just 100g more than the Dogma F, but costs thousands less

Pinarello’s updated range of F-Series road bikes improves aerodynamic efficiency, frame stiffness, and ride quality of the brand’s entry-level road bike, bringing features seen on the Flagship Dogma F to models starting at £4,000 / €4,500 / $5,200.

Alongside the updated frames, Pinarello has also broadened tyre clearance to 32mm.

Carbon layups vary across the F-Series, with T900 used on the top-tier F9 and F7, T700 on the mid-level F5 and F3, and T600 reserved for the entry-level F1. The F1 remains the entry-level model (£3,000 / $3,250 / €3,400) but retains the previous frameset design.

Updates centred on performance

Pinarello F7 2025
The Pinarello F-series has seen updates that bring it closer to the flagship Dogma F. Ashley Quinlan / Our Media

Central to the new F-Series frame is a new head tube and steerer assembly derived from the Dogma F. 

The redesigned head tube is narrower than before, which Pinarello says improves the F-Series’ aerodynamics. This houses an elliptical steerer tube that’s similar to Dogma F’s.

This has enabled the brand to adopt the flagship bike’s E-TiCR (Total Internal Cable Routing) system, which it claims offers improved serviceability.

Pinarello F7 2025
Pinarello has slimmed down the head tube. Ashley Quinlan / Our Media

Also notable are modifications to the down tube profile (using aerofoil-inspired profile with a blunt training edge) and slimmer fork legs, which are said to improve aerodynamics, and a beefed-up bottom bracket. 

This adopts the Aero Keel layout, which debuted on the Dogma F. Pinarello claims this smoothes airflow around the area disturbed by moving feet and legs, while offering a stiff platform for high-powered efforts. 

Pinarello F7 2025
The head tube retains the same kinked side profile, and partially-filled rear section. Ashley Quinlan / Our Media

It’s worth noting that Pinarello hasn’t offered any comparative aerodynamic testing data against the Dogma F, or rival bikes, though.

The rear triangle has also been revised with a marginally bulkier design to reduce torsional (twisting) motion, thereby improving power transfer, according to Pinarello. Tyre clearance has also increased to 32mm (from 30mm).

Pinarello F7 2025
The brand says the rear section has been stiffened up to avoid energy wastage. Ashley Quinlan / Our Media
Pinarello F7 2025
T900-spec carbon features in the highest-spec frames. Ashley Quinlan / Our Media

The geometry of the new F-Series remains race-oriented and closely mirrors that of the Dogma F. 

Pinarello offers the F-Series in nine frame sizes (two fewer than the Dogma F, but generally up to four more than brands typically offer), ranging from 425 to 595mm seat tube lengths. 

Model breakdown and availability

Ashley Quinlan riding the 2025 Pinarello F7
I tried out the F7 with a Shimano Ultegra Di2 R8100 groupset. Roby Bragotto / Pinarello

The F-Series is available in five model ‘tiers’.

The F9 comes with a Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 R9200 groupset and MOST Ultrafast 45 DB wheels, while the F7 is available with either Shimano Ultegra Di2 R8100 or SRAM Force AXS drivetrains.

Both feature one-piece Most Talon Ultra Fast cockpits, which were first introduced on the Dogma F. 

Pinarello says the F9 weighs 7.4kg, in an unspecified size, while the F7 comes in at around 7.8kg.

These the top-level framesets use Toray T900 carbon fibre, and are said to weigh around 100g more than the Dogma F, but specific frame weights for either aren’t given. 

Pinarello F7 2025
This spec is likely to be popular with racers and sportive enthusiasts alike. Ashley Quinlan / Our Media

F5 and F3 framesets feature Toray T700 carbon, described as a mid-level layup, offering a blend of light weight, stiffness and compliance.

Both are fitted with Shimano 105 Di2 R7100 groupsets. The F5 is paired with the MOST Ultrafast wheels seen on the higher spec bikes, whereas the F3 is fitted with alloy DT Swiss A1800 wheels.

Here, the bikes are specced with a new two-piece alloy bar-stem setup with internal routing, which Pinarello says enables the rider to change the stem without cutting the hoses.

These models are said to weigh 8.25kg and 8.5kg, respectively.

The F1 features the previous generation frameset design, and is made from Toray T600 carbon, which is claimed to deliver more compliance.

This is equipped with mechanical Shimano 105 and Shimano RS-171 wheels.

It’s worth noting that the F3-spec framesets and higher can only sport electronic groupsets, while the F1’s can be used with both mechanical and electronic setups.

Pinarello F7 2025
The one-piece Most Talon Ultra Fast carbon cockpit is a new addition. Ashley Quinlan / Our Media

For all bikes, a setback seatpost is specced as standard, but an inline version is available. Pinarello says it’s up to its dealers to arrange specification swaps, but confirms that these are not free-of-charge. Different size cockpits can also be sourced via dealers.

Pinarello claims that the frameset and model specifications were specifically chosen to appeal to varying levels of riders – the F9 and F7 for racers and those engaged in “competition”, while the F5 and F3 are pitched to those looking for a balance of racy performance and comfort. The F1, meanwhile, is aimed towards those looking for value entry point to Pinarello ownership.

Prices are as follows (note that the F9 is not available in the UK at launch):

  • F9 – £N/A / $11,000 / €11,000
  • F7 (Ultegra Di2) – £6,500 / $8,200 / €7,900
  • F7 (Force AXS) – £6,500 / $7,500 / €7,900
  • F5 – £5,000 / $6,200 / €5,500
  • F3 – £4,000 / $5,200 / €4,500
  • F1 – £3,000 / $3,250 / €3,400

Zwift Racing Etiquette: The Unofficial Code of Conduct for Indoor Cycling Racing

Every cyclist knows the Velominati—keepers of the sacred outdoor road cycling commandments. But once you clip in on a smart trainer and enter the pixelated world of Watopia, those rules start to fall apart. Sock height still matters, sure, but what about your fan placement? Your avatar name? Your squirrel?

Enter Zwift Racing Etiquette: the ultimate guide to proper behavior in the virtual peloton. These rules are designed for Zwift racers who want to ride hard, race fair, and keep the vibe fun—even when chasing a breakaway at 180 bpm in a garage that smells faintly of chain lube and long lost ambition.

The Golden Principle of Zwift racing etiquette is simple: Be a Good Sport. Zwift racing is highly competitive, but it’s also a shared experience. Whether you’re chasing a podium or just trying not to get dropped, the goal is to race with integrity, respect your fellow riders, and contribute to the community. That means no sandbagging, no tantrums, and no ghosting. It means giving Ride-Ons, pulling your weight in a break, and finishing even when it hurts.

If everyone follows this one principle, the rules almost take care of themselves.

The Rules

Rule #1: Keep it fun.
Zwift is serious business—until you remember you’re sweating in your attic pretending to climb a volcano. Lighten up.

Rule #2: Wear a jersey.
Indoor riding gets hot. We get it. But Zwift is not OnlyFans. So wear a shirt when filming your ride. Your YouTube viewers will thank you.

Rule #3: Ditch the “pain cave.”
The term is cringey and overused. Whatever you call it, it should feel like a place where legends are made. Hang some Tour swag to make it feel legit.

Rule #4: Don’t forget the essentials.
You can have the perfect warm-up, the perfect playlist, and the perfect race plan—but if you forget your towel, bottle, or to switch on your fan, you’re toast. Prep your setup like it’s a space launch: checklist, power, hydration, airflow. Forget one, and you’ll be sweating into regret.

Rule #5: The fan cools you. The software cools your mic.
Strategic airflow is non-negotiable. But if your teammates can’t hear your tactical brilliance over the roar of your industrial-grade fan, it’s time to let noise suppression do its job. Balance is everything.

Rule #6: Charge your devices.
Nothing says “pro” like a mid-race voice dropout because your AirPods died during your attack. Keep your gear juiced. Better yet, plug it in.

Rule #7: Calibrate your trainer.
Your trainer isn’t magic. It needs calibration. Regularly. If your watts are suspiciously heroic, it’s either your legs or your laziness. Don’t let it be the latter. Calibrate, verify, and race clean.

Rule #8: Drop watts, not connections.
Your setup should be race-ready. That means no Bluetooth dropouts, no sensor drama, no “why did my avatar stop?” moments. Keep interference low, test with Zwiftalizer, and choose your connection method wisely. Companion App bridge can help, but it’s not for everyone. If your signal’s sketchy, your race is too.

Rule #9: Identify yourself.
If your name is “Mr. Fast” and your avatar is a Bugatti, we assume you’re compensating for something. Just be you.

Rule #10: State your true height.
Yes, shaving centimeters makes you faster in Zwift. But unless you’ve actually shrunk, set your real height. Cheating the system is easy—earning respect isn’t.

Rule #11: Weigh-in with integrity.
Morning weigh-ins (sans gear) are fine. Don’t film it—you’re naked, remember. Enter your weight with one decimal and update it every couple of weeks. It’s not just about numbers—it’s about showing you care enough to keep it fair.

Rule #12: Your age doesn’t earn you watts.
Zwift doesn’t care how old you are—and neither should your race name. If you’re 70 and dropping 20-year-olds, that’s genuinely impressive. But don’t fish for compliments by adding your age to your username. Performance speaks louder than birthdays.

Rule #13: Only state your FTP when asked.
Power is silent. Ego is loud. Be the former. Dropping your FTP into casual chat is like flexing your salary at a dinner party—no one asked, and now it’s awkward.

Rule #14: Sock height is sacred.
There is a correct sock height. You don’t know what it is, but you’ll know when someone gets it wrong.

Rule #15: Respect the Tron.
If someone’s riding the Tron bike, they’ve earned it. Don’t ask how. Just admire the glow and get in their draft.

Rule #16: Respect the burrito.
It’s not glamorous. It’s not sexy. It’s not even edible. But the burrito power-up cancels your draft and scrambles your chasers. Laugh at it, and you’ll get dropped. Use it right, and you’ll ride off into the distance before the opponents even know you’re attacking.

Rule #17: Sprint into descents.
The gravity may be virtual, but the glory is real. Always start a downhill with a watt bomb—you’ll carry extra speed and drop your rivals. And yes, in the virtual world, the supertuck is still a thing. Use it wisely. Abuse it, and you’ll be dropped like a bad Wi-Fi connection.

Rule #18: No distractions.
Zwift is not background noise. If you’re watching Netflix during a race, you’re not really here. Save the binge-watching for rest days. When it’s go-time, be present. Your watts deserve your full attention.

Rule #19: Know your racing category.
If ZRS, CE, and vELO just look like alphabet soup to you, you’re not ready to race. These acronyms determine who you race and how fair it all feels. So learn the system, check your numbers, and race where you belong. Confusion is forgivable. Ignorance is not.

Rule #20: E-racing has a capital Z.
Other platforms are just pixel cosplay.

Rule #21: Don’t compare Zwift to IRL.
Zwift isn’t outdoor riding—and that’s the point. There’s no wind, no potholes, and no chance of getting dropped because you missed a turn while reaching for a gel. It’s a different sport. Zwift has volcanoes, power-ups, and glowing bikes. Embrace the weird. Respect the platform.

Rule #22: Non-Zwifters won’t get it.
Your sub-6 hour vCinglés du Ven-Top means nothing to non-Zwifters. They won’t care about your zMAP boost or your Epic KOM reverse PR. Save it for fellow Zwifters.

Rule #23: Keep the bike clean and lubricated.
Just because no one sees your bike doesn’t mean it should look like a biology experiment. Clean your drivetrain, no sweat puddles, and bin those wrappers.

Rule #24: Wear the team kit.
Wear your club jersey (virtually) and display your team name. Otherwise, no one knows if you’re a rival or just vibing.

Rule #25: Take your turn.
In a breakaway or chase group, do your share. It doesn’t have to be heroic, but it has to be something. Riders who merely freeload are to be dropped at the earliest opportunity.

Rule #26: Always race to your max.
Race like your Twitch stream actually has viewers. If you’re looking for a training ride, do a workout instead. See also Rule #28.

Rule #27: Empty your weebles.
Intervals.icu shows how deep you went above FTP. If your w’balance didn’t reach zero, you just didn’t go hard enough. See Rule #27.

Rule #28: No sandbagging.
Don’t limit your power to stay in a lower category. Big fish belong in big ponds. Race like it’s the Tour de France and let the pens sort themselves out.

Rule #29: No tanking.
Purposely racing poorly to lower your ZRS or vELO rating is just sad. Wear your category with pride.

Rule #30: Finish the race.
Got dropped and don’t want your poor result to show on ZwiftPower? Tough luck. Take your defeat on the chin and complete the full distance.

Rule #31: Sauce is allowed (mostly).
Sauce 4 Zwift is fine—if the HUD is on. If the organiser switches it off for a data-free experience, don’t bypass it. That’s just shady.

Rule #32: Keep the chat clean.
“Have fun!” is great. “How long is this race?”—not so much. Race chat isn’t your personal FAQ or therapy session. Don’t complain about the course or ask what’s for dinner, and save the sarcastic coaching for Discord. Say thanks, be nice, and if you’ve got nothing helpful to say—pedal harder.

Rule #33: No public shaming.
Suspicious power, weight, or height? Don’t call it out in chat. Send a private message to the organiser. Keep the vibe positive.

Rule #34: Big watts? Dual record.
If you can do more than 5 w/kg for 5 minutes, invest in some power pedals. They’re not that expensive anymore, and they prove your numbers are legit.

Rule #35: Ride-Ons galore.
That rider who clawed their way back after getting dropped? Ride-On. The one who led the chase to reel in a breakaway? Ride-On. The teammate who gave up their sprint to lead you out? Definitely Ride-On. We’re all suffering in our own way—sometimes, a well-timed Ride-On makes it bearable. Use them generously, but meaningfully.

Rule #36: No moaning about steering.
Yes, Zwift Play isn’t sold everywhere. But if you want it, find a forwarding address. Complaining won’t make your avatar steer better.

Rule #37: Do not ghost the race.
If you signed up, show up. Be the wheel someone else needs.

Your Thoughts

What do you think of the list? Got rules to add or changes to recommend? Share below…

Review: Zwift x H2O Audio “100% Sweatproof” Headphones

Back in July, the Zwifty social blew up when Mathieu van der Poel donned Zwift-branded headphones for his TdF TT warmup. The headphones basically match the in-game headphones originally available via the Big Spin 2024 prize spinner, and Zwift sleuths soon figured out they were a collab between Zwift and H2O Audio, who are headquartered in San Diego, California, just a bit south of Zwift’s Long Beach headquarters.

Opinion was immediately split: were these the coolest Zwift accessory yet, or a terribly sweaty idea? Was Zwift wasting time making headphones when they should be laying more virtual tarmac?

In my post announcing the headphones, I promised to thoroughly test their “100% sweatproof design”… for science. And that’s exactly what I’ve done for the past ~7 weeks. Here’s my full review.

First, the Basics

These headphones are a co-branded version of H2O Audio’s flagship “RIPT ULTRA” headphones. So for anyone concerned that Zwift is diverting much-needed resources into headphone development… well, these are more of a small marketing team project than anything else.

A few key specs:

  • Wireless
  • Bluetooth
  • Active noise cancellation of 30dB and transparency mode
  • Built-in microphone for seamless calls (and Discord!)
  • “100% sweatproof design” with patent-pending removable and washable silicone ear cushions
  • Black leather ear cushions also included, and a carrying case
  • Charge via USB
  • Powered by custom-developed 45mm drivers
  • 50-hour battery life
  • Price: $249.99 Buy Now > (see below for coupon code)
They come in a fancy Zwift-branded box
Package contents

Sound Quality

First, I’m no audiophile. So if you’re expecting that sort of review, you’ll need to look elsewhere.

I am a musician, though. So I care a lot about sound quality, and I notice things others may not. (Then again, I play the banjo, so can I really be trusted with anything?)

After hours of listening, I found these headphones to be on par with others I’ve used in a similar budget range, including Beats Studio3. Sure, they won’t be as pristine as audiophile-level $2000 headphones, but they sound good, with clear articulation and an even frequency response that isn’t too bass-heavy.

Over-the-ear (OTE) headphones typically deliver a rounder, fuller bass response than earbuds because their larger size can support much larger drivers. Noise cancelling is often better too, since the over-the-ear nature of the headphones keeps out more sound than an earbud. Both of these expectations were met with the H2O headphones. I’d describe the active noise cancelling (ANC) of the H2O headphones as not quite as good as the Beats Studio3, but close, and noticeably better than my Apple Airpods Pro. I kept it engaged for most of my Zwift sessions, and it nicely muted the noise of my fan and drivetrain.

A few more sound-tech details, if you’re interested:

  • Audio codec: APTX (Qualcomm aptX Audio, Qualcomm aptX HD)
  • Audio Sampling frequency: 48KHz
  • Speaker Frequency: 20Hz~15KHz
  • Sound pressure level 114±3dB
  • Impedance 32Ωohm
  • Diameter Φ45 mm
  • Bluetooth chipset Qualcomm QCC3034
  • Includes AUX audio jack (3.5mm) and wire for external audio source

Let’s Talk About Sweat

A man with a surprised expression wearing a white hooded suit, possibly designed for training or exercise, with a blurred background.
Yes, I wore these for multiple heat training sessions. The things I do for science!

Like many of you, I’ve never worn OTE headphones while Zwifting. (The only headphones I owned had nice leather or cloth ear cushions, and I didn’t want to find out what would happen after those got repeatedly sweat-soaked.) But I have spent hundreds of hours wearing earbuds while riding. In recent years it’s been my trusty Apple Airpods Pro, but I’ve spent many Zwifty hours wearing buds from JBL, Sennheiser, and others.

So I was curious how comfortable full OTE headphones would be while riding. Apart from the sound quality differences (discussed above), how would they actually feel? Here’s what I noticed:

  • They felt surprisingly non-sweaty, even after very sweaty heat training sessions. I suppose my ears and a small part of the side of my head were a bit more sweaty than usual, being nearly sealed inside the rubber ear cushion. But it wasn’t particularly noticeable or irritating to me.
  • They stayed put, even when I moved my head around quickly while racing or doing intense workouts.
  • I did notice the headphones when I needed to adjust or swap out my head sweatband. Being bald, a sweatband is a must, and on long rides, I often bring two! Swapping a sweatband while wearing these headphones, though, requires removing the headphones, putting on the new band, then placing the headphones back on. A minor inconvenience, but one nonetheless. (Rotating the headband, which I sometimes do mid-ride, is also a bit of a faff.)
  • If you wear glasses while Zwifting (I do not), these could prove problematic. The arms on your glasses will break the seal of the ear cushions, which will probably allow more sweat inside, which may pool. And the cushions will push your glasses’ arms against your head, which will probably be uncomfortable.

I wore these for multiple ~3-hour sessions (Thursday 100km Pizza Burner, anyone?), as well as super sweaty heat training sessions that lasted an hour or more. Here’s what they look like after one such heat training:

In these pics, a bit of sweat is pooled inside the ear cup, but nothing significant. The cool thing about H2O’s design is that these silicone ear cups can be easily removed from the headset, rinsed, and dried. The headphones also include nice black leather cushions, if you’d rather use those for non-sweaty listening.

Wrapping this section up: for me, a bald guy with a sweaty head doing very sweaty Zwift sessions, I found these headphones surprisingly comfortable. (There was one issue I experienced, which may or may not have been sweat-related, which I explain below.)

What Makes Them Special

Apart from their sweatproof/washable nature (which is no small thing), there are a few nice extras on these headphones that are worth mentioning:

  • They’re Zwifty in color, and even have “Ride On” printed inside the headband
  • When you power them on and off, Matt Stephen’s cheerful voice is the first thing you’ll hear. What a way to start and end a ride! “Power off. Catch you next time.”
  • That battery life! 50 hours of battery life is impressive, and around double what many headphones in this range claim. It’s not just marketing, either – I have yet to charge mine, and they still say “Battery level high” when I power them on after using them for at least 30 hours of Zwifting.

Just One Issue

There’s just one problem I’ve had with these headphones, though. And it’s not a minor thing.

Three different times, when I was 90 minutes or more into a Zwift session, one or both sides of the headphones began to crackle intermittently. It was very noticeable and loud, but it was also unpredictable and far from constant. I soon discovered that tapping the left ear button to swap to “noise cancelling off” mode made the crackling disappear, while setting them to “noise cancelling on” or “transparency mode” would bring the crackling back.

I reported this to H2O Audio, and they said it wasn’t a known issue. They asked me to send the first pair back for investigation, and sent a replacement set. But that replacement set did the same thing the first time I used it for a long ride.

Trying to figure out the root cause, I wore the headphones while working at my desk (not sweating), but could never get them to crackle. It does seem to happen quite regularly when riding over 90 minutes, though, so my hunch is it has to do with moisture getting into the electronics. The headphones feature a special hydrophobic mesh on the inside (not attached to the removable ear cushion) to prevent water from entering the speaker assembly. However, I wonder if the humid air that builds up over long sessions inside the sealed ear cup is somehow affecting the internals.

Most Zwift sessions are an hour or less, and if the crackling begins, it’s really easy to tap the button on the left ear cup to turn off active noise canceling and thus any crackling. So I don’t consider this a deal breaker, but it certainly seems like something H2O will want to get fixed.

Buy Now

Interested in purchasing the Zwift + H2O Audio headphones? Shop through this link and use the coupon code ZWIFTINSIDER for 20% off! Your purchase helps support this site.

Questions or Comments

Did you purchase the Zwift x H2O Audio headphones? Any particular features you like, or issues you’ve had? Post your comments below!

Considering a purchase and have further questions? Share those below too, and I’m happy to answer any I can.

Girona has something for every cyclist – here’s why it’s the perfect autumn cycling destination

Girona is a must-ride cycling destination, whether you’re into road cycling, mountain biking or gravel riding.

Autumn is the ideal time for a trip to this Catalonian cycling hotspot – here are five reasons why.


Tick off more from your cycling bucket list

Use the Skyscanner City Break tool to plot your next cycling trip across Europe


1. Get there fast and inexpensively

You can fly direct to Girona itself in around two hours from London, Birmingham, Manchester and other major UK airports. This autumn, budget airlines are offering rock-bottom prices on flights, so you’ll have more Euros to spend once you arrive. Check out Skyscanner for the best deals.

Alternatively, fly to Barcelona with even more flight options and train connections to Girona in just over an hour.

Once you arrive, Skyscanner has deals on car hire from £22 for an SUV, so you can pack your bike and quickly head out to the smooth empty roads in the hills or drive to your hotel.

Plan your next cycling trip to Girona

2. Test yourself: explore its varied terrain

Girona has a bit of everything on its doorstep, which is why it’s a favourite base for pro cyclists. While many road riders will gravitate naturally to the challenging ascents and quiet roads inland or even head into the Pyrenees to take on the classic climbs, there’s less demanding riding to the east and glorious undulating roads along the coast.

Girona isn’t just for roadies – it’s become a major destination to ride gravel, with the Traka a major European gravel race to rival Unbound in the US. You don’t have to ride too far out of town to hit gravel and can choose between flatter, faster routes and taxing climbs.

Plan your coastal and gravel routes through Girona

3. Soak in the warm climate

Hang onto summer for another few weeks. With average daytime temperatures in September 28ºC, October 24ºC and November 18ºC, you can enjoy short-sleeved jersey weather without sweltering, while the gales blow in from the Atlantic in the UK.

Plan your next warm getaway in Girona

4. Spot the pros

All the above are reasons why many pros make Girona their base. You can spot the current generation of riders heading out to train on Rocacorba, Els Àngels or one of the other local climbs or find the door behind which Lance Armstrong used to prepare for races when he was based in Girona.

Plan pro-spotting in Girona

5. Plenty of off-bike activities

It’s not just about the riding though, with Girona boasting a historic old town with cobbled streets, ramparts, museums and churches, ancient houses on the banks of the river Onyar and a bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel.

You can hang out at a coffee shop, browse the boutiques and eat in some great restaurants. Head out of town for more sightseeing or further afield to see those climbs in the Pyrenees that you didn’t quite find time to cycle.

Plan your cycling trip to Girona


Tick off more from your cycling bucket list

Use the Skyscanner City Break tool to plot your next cycling trip across Europe