The Zwift Cog is a game-changer for indoor cyclists. It eliminates the need for different cassettes, providing a single-gear solution that works with any bike, simplifying your trainer setup. But how well does it work with various cycling apps? Let’s break it down.
>> You can watch full video here.
TrainerRoad: TrainerRoad primarily uses ERG mode for its structured workouts. Since ERG mode controls your wattage and doesn’t require gear shifting, the Zwift Cog works perfectly here. You’ll only need that one gear for most of your training. For riders who prefer switching off ERG mode for certain workouts, you can still use the resistance slider in TrainerRoad but you’ll lose the ability to shift quickly for those very short all out sprints type intervals.
MyWhoosh: MyWhoosh offers both structured workouts (using ERG mode) and sim rides. With the Zwift Cog, you’re fine in ERG mode, but if you switch to Sim mode (riding a route or race), you’ll find yourself stuck in one gear—similar to riding a single-speed bike outdoors. It’s doable on flat routes, but climbing can be tough. This applies to other apps such as Rouvy and FulGaz.
IndieVelo: Like MyWhoosh, IndieVelo has ERG mode for structured workouts, which works great with the Zwift Cog. However, what makes IndieVelo unique is its virtual shifting feature, allowing you to adjust resistance during Sim rides using keyboard shortcuts without needing physical gears. While the response isn’t as fast as Zwift’s virtual shifting, it does the job.
icTrainer: I didn’t mention this app in my video but icTrainer not only support virtual shifting using their workout player, but you can even assign your Shimano Di2 buttons on the brake levers for virtual shifting.
The Zwift Cog is ideal for apps that focus on ERG mode, like TrainerRoad. However, if you frequently ride in Sim mode, the lack of physical gears might be a limitation, especially for apps like Rouvy, FulGaz, and MyWhoosh.
