If you’re like me, I prefer the challenge and excitement of training and riding outdoors. Most athletes also argue that it’s the best way to prepare for a race. For others, riding outdoors is a great way to exercise and destress.
But the reality is you can’t ride outdoors any time you like. The weather will not always be conducive for outdoor rides. Or it may not be safe to ride in your neighborhood at certain times. Or heaven forbid, a pandemic may force us to stay indoors most of the time (Oh, wait. That did happen).
Thankfully, we have indoor cycling to fall back on. It’s a great way to train for a racing event or to just simply keep yourself fit. But sometimes training indoors can get dull. To help keep yourself engaged and motivated, I recommend using an indoor cycling app during your sessions.
When it comes to indoor cycling apps, you have tons of options. This post takes a look at the top 20 free and paid cycling apps to help you decide which one is the best for you.
1. Zwift
Zwift is a leading game-inspiring cycling software that will revolutionize your indoor cycling experience. The app takes your cycling to a whole new level as it integrates cycling with the online gaming world.
Zwift offers an interactive digital cycling world that you can explore with your cycling team.
The app allows you to create a personalized training plan that you can follow on your own or with your cycling team. There are plenty of cycling options for you to choose from.
Currently, you have access to 10 worlds and hundreds of routes to cycle through. Want to tour New York City or cycle around New Zealand? The choice is yours. Zwift allows you to adjust your biking route according to your tastes and preferences.
- Subscription: $14.99 / month
- Free trial period: 7 days
- OS Compatibility: Windows, iOS, Android, Apple TV, macOS
- Connectivity: BLE FTMS, Bluetooth, ANT+ FE-C
2. Rouvy
Rouvy is another great indoor cycling app that offers plenty of features to revamp your training. One thing you will love about this app is that it creates a lively virtual cycling experience by connecting you to the gaming world.
The virtual races set for you feature exotic places and racecourses that make you feel like you’re cycling outdoors. You can create your routes to make the cycling experience more enjoyable.
If you don’t intend to rely on a coach while cycling indoors, Rouvy comes with structured workouts that provide interactive videos. These videos make you feel like you’re working with your trainer.
You can cycle on official routes of races such as Tour de Suisse, Vuelta a España, and many others. Undeniably, if you want to bike like the elite, you can compare your performance after biking through these official routes.
- Subscription: $12 / month (two family members can take a yearly plan)
- Free trial period: 14 days
- OS Compatibility: Windows, iOS, Android, macOS
- Connectivity: ANT+ FE-C
3. TrainerRoad
TrainerRoad indoor cycling software is unique. Unlike many indoor cycling apps out there, TrainerRoad does not focus on creating an outstanding visual experience. Rather, it focuses more on improving your cycling performance. So, if your goal is to work on your endurance or any other aspect of your training, TrainerRoad might just be the app you need.
What’s great about this app is that it uses artificial intelligence to create a workout or training plan that is adapted to your goals, performance, and schedule. Serious cyclists should consider using this tool to ensure they take their skills to the next level.
- Subscription: $19.95 / month
- Free trial period: 30-day money-back guarantee
- OS Compatibility: Windows, iOS, Android, macOS, Apple TV
- Connectivity: ANT+ FE-C, BLE FTMS, Bluetooth
4. Fulgaz
If you always fancy the idea of biking through worldwide routes, Fulgaz is the right app to choose.
The software pays more attention to its functionality and ease of use. The initial setup is simple, and pairing the app to other digital devices won’t be any trouble.
You can guess what you should expect with high-quality footage of up to 4K. With the quality you’ll be getting here, you can transfer your cycling reality into the virtual world.
Plus, the routes library is diverse, thanks to the cycling community that helps in contributing to the footage. You can go for solo rides or partner with your biking team for a challenge to boost your performance.
- Subscription: $12.99 / month
- Free trial period: 14-day trial
- OS Compatibility: Windows, iOS, Android, macOS
- Connectivity: ANT+ FE-C, Bluetooth
5. Wahoo RGT
Wahoo RGT
, formerly known as RGT Cycling also deserves a mention in this list. This indoor cycling application has a freemium plan and a premium subscription.
The free plan is best used when you want to try out the app before fully purchasing it. However, you will be limited to certain features. For instance, you won’t have access to structured biking workouts. Besides, you won’t be able to create events or even access the workout library.
Wahoo RGT users often find this app worth using due to its realistic graphics and physics. Yes, you will be cycling through the virtual world, but you will enjoy the wonderful experience of real roads featuring the most popular routes around the globe.
If you’re more interested in convenience, Wahoo RGT can surpass your expectations since it can be conveniently accessed from your phone. It comes with a user-friendly interface, which helps you navigate through its rich features.
One of the main drawbacks of Wahoo RGT is that roads are limited, and they can be repetitive at times.
- Subscription: $14.99 / month
- Free trial period: 14-day trial
- OS Compatibility: Windows, iOS, Android, macOS, Apple TV
- Connectivity: ANT+ FE-C, Bluetooth, BLE FTMS
6. Wahoo SYSTM
Wahoo SYSTM is an all-inclusive indoor cycling software that has everything to do with training. The workouts are well-organized, and it also comes with mental and strength training. Unlike its rivals in the industry, the tool focuses less on magnifying the virtual world. Instead, it helps you stick to a training plan.
Its intuitive training plan builder is quite useful in customizing training plans that suit your performance goals and fitness level. The software is designed to take into account your outdoor training, which means you can also improve in these areas.
- Subscription: $14.99 / month
- Free trial period: 14-day trial
- OS Compatibility: Windows, iOS, Android, macOS
- Connectivity: ANT+ FE-C, Bluetooth
7. XERT
XERT is another great free indoor cycling software that won’t disappoint you. The software provides an adaptive training plan which keeps you updated during and after your regular workouts.
The tool will provide you with accurate and updated information about your workouts to help you stay on top of your game without overworking or underworking yourself.
Its simplicity also makes it a perfect selection since you only need to download the software and get started right away. XERT supports multiple platforms such as Android and iOS.
The software is intuitive enough to recommend your ideal workouts for the day. Depending on your current stats, the tool will decide for you the best plan to improve your performance.
Of course, this doesn’t mean that you can’t choose other workout programs. You can settle for any program of your choice, and the app will adjust to it and see how trends will change.
You can access detailed reports from the “Activities Dashboard.” The reports here help evaluate your performance over a certain period.
The 30-day trial period will give you plenty of time to try out the software before paying for premium features.
- Subscription: $9.99 / month
- Free trial period: 30-day trial
- OS Compatibility: iOS, Android
- Connectivity: ANT+ FE-C, Bluetooth
8. Kinomap
With Kinomap, you can train along thousands of scenic videos. If you prefer more guidance in your workouts, you can also opt to use coaching videos instead.
If you’re using an interactive smart trainer, Kinomap can change your trainer’s resistance according to the terrain in the video. This makes everything seem like the actual cycling world.
You can also take advantage of interval training provided in the app. This means you can opt for fixed resistance training on a smart trainer or train with a power meter. You also have the option of training solo or joining other riders from all over the world.
- Subscription: $9.99 / month
- Free trial period: 14-day trial
- OS Compatibility: iOS, Android
- Connectivity: ANT+ FE-C, Bluetooth
9. Tacx Training
Tacx Training software will impress you with its high-quality films from exotic destinations, 3D GPS workouts, live races with other opponents, workout builders, and training plans. After completing each workout, you can analyze the reports and send or share them to third-party apps.
Luckily, you don’t require a smart trainer to use all the handy features. If your “dumb” trainer has sensors, you can work with structured workouts.
Cycling around the virtual world doesn’t get boring with Tacx. Developers are always updating the application with new videos from around the globe. Therefore, you can be sure to tour new destinations every time you use the app.
Alternatively, you can replay a ride you enjoyed outdoors. The tool can simulate your outdoor experience and bring it into your virtual world, which is one of the main perks of this software. Plus, you can visualize a ride and make it a reality.
- Subscription: $9.99 / month
- Free trial period: 10-day trial
- OS Compatibility: iOS, Android, Windows, Website, macOS
- Connectivity: ANT+ FE-C, Bluetooth
10. TrainerDay
TrainerDay gives cyclists an intriguing indoor cycling experience without breaking the bank. You have over 10,000 workout programs to choose from, including ride-by-feel, and heart-rate-based training.
These unique features are intended to provide you with a personalized cycling experience. For instance, if you’re not into training, you can choose the ‘ride by feel’ feature and ease into your riding program.
Besides, you can also chunk up your training plan to ensure it fits into your daily routine. You can use the little time you have to follow a specific training plan determined by the app.
Triathletes usually love this app because it’s budget-friendly, and it comes with plenty of features even in their freemium version. However, you might not like the idea that it doesn’t have live races and videos.
- Subscription: Free or $3.99 / month
- Free trial period: Only free once you pay for the app
- OS Compatibility: iOS, Android, Windows, macOS
- Connectivity: ANT+ FE-C, Bluetooth
11. One Lap
One Lap is a great option if you’re looking for a budget immersive indoor cycling app. It features a 3D immersive virtual environment that is comparable to other more popular indoor cycling apps.
One Lap offers diverse workouts for different needs. If you’re feeling competitive, you can join races or events. If you want to do serious training, you can choose from the app’s workout plans in the Quick Play tab. Or you can do a free ride. You can also track your cycling progress in the Career tab.
- Subscription: $4.99 per month
- Free trial period: 14-day trial
- OS Compatibility: iOS, Android, Windows
- Connectivity: ANT+ FE-C, Bluetooth
12. Peloton
You may know Peloton from its bike and other cardio machines that the brand offers. Well, the brand also has an app that is worth your time and money.
Peloton app is loaded with many workouts for indoor cycling as well as other types of workouts. You’ll be glad to know that Peloton only hires certified personal trainers. The majority of them are certified through the National Academy of Sports Medicine.
When using the app, you can train using pre-recorded videos or enter into a “live” workout class. Triathletes can make the most out of the challenging workouts the app offers. You can choose Power Zone workouts to help you boost your performance.
The simplicity of Peloton is probably something that will entice you to turn to this app. Nonetheless, you might find it frustrating that you can sync your stats with third-party applications.
- Subscription: $12 / month
- Free trial period: 30-day trial
- OS Compatibility: iOS, Android, Amazon Fire
- Connectivity: None
13. Bkool
Bkool’s virtual world offers users thousands of courses. It also comes with racing and social features like the ones you would find in Zwift.
Some users claim that Bkool is perhaps the most realistic simulator. When using this app, you can train without limits, ride hundreds of routes in 3D, and compete in leagues. The multiple training options also allow you to personalize your training routine in a way that suits your goals.
The app features specialized classes coached by expert instructors. The best part is that you’re in full control of your training. You can choose your optimal training time, the intensity level, and the length of training. Over time, you can reap the fruits of your hard work and determination.
Another interesting feature of this tool is that it allows you to choose different view options. If you prefer riding on your preferred routes, you can easily upload your route to the community.
- Subscription: €9.99 / month
- Free trial period: 30-day trial
- OS Compatibility: iOS, Android, Windows, macOS
- Connectivity: ANT+ FE-C, Bluetooth
14. Kinetic Fit
Kinetic Fit comes recommended for folks who would love a mixture of different training programs. The tool keeps you entertained as you cycle through different routes.
If you have your favorite playlist on YouTube or a movie you want to watch as you enjoy the ride, Kinetic Fit provides this option.
The free version of the app allows you to make use of the initial training plan and other workout programs. On the other hand, the premium plan gives you access to a wide array of training plans tailored to your needs. The paid version also gives you unlimited access to external support from third-party apps and other amazing video features.
- Subscription: $9.99 / month
- Free trial period: None
- OS Compatibility: iOS, Android, Windows, macOS
- Connectivity: ANT+, Bluetooth
15. BigRingVR
Like any other good indoor cycling app, BigRingVR also provides a unique virtual experience that integrates your ideal training program for the day. The smart trainer will gradually adjust the workout’s resistance accordingly.
The wide array of workouts within the app also gives you the flexibility of picking the best program depending on how you plan your day. Your built-in coach will also train you on how to use your power effectively.
It’s also easy to pick rides that you want, thanks to the search bar in the user dashboard. Plus, there are leadership boards and challenges tabs. You can check your performance against other riders on similar routes. If you’re up for a challenge, all you have to do is to find one that fits you.
- Subscription: $10 / month
- Free trial period: 14-day free trial
- OS Compatibility: Windows, macOS
- Connectivity: ANT+ FE-C
16. VeloPro
VeloPro is an AI (artificial intelligence) training app. The tool creates personalized training plans for every cyclist based on their biking goals, fitness, and experience. You can plan your training to cover gravel, road, cyclocross, or mountain landscapes.
In terms of training, VeloPro simply serves its purpose as it optimizes a cyclist’s plan. Its built-in smart trainer will also adjust to keep you on track.
If you’re looking for a tool that will cure your boredom, VeloPro will give you an exciting experience as you cycle indoors.
- Subscription: $10 / month
- Free trial period: 30-day free trial
- OS Compatibility: None
- Connectivity: N/A
17. VRide by Veloreality
VRide indoor cycling app provides users with 4k quality real-life videos for the best indoor riding experience.
The app itself is free (and you get a free demo video) but you have to get a subscription for the videos separately. Your options are monthly, quarterly, or an annual subscription for either 1080p or 4k videos.
Alternatively, you can purchase individual videos or video collections instead of a monthly subscription.
- Subscription: $12.04 per month for 1080p videos / $18.14 per month for 4k videos /+ other options
- Free trial period: Free monthly subscription for 720p videos/No free trial for other subscriptions
- OS Compatibility: Windows
- Connectivity: ANT+ FE-C
18. ERGVideo
ERGVideo indoor cycling app gives you the benefit of power-training with real video. This app allows you to ride on legendary climbs such as the Passo dello Stelvio and Alpe d’Huez.
There are over 1,000 pre-configured video workouts for you to choose from. The best part is that you can create your own workouts to suit your performance or your cycling goals. You can also take advantage of over 50 training plans tailored to your needs.
With the ERGVideo app, your efforts will always match your actions. The idea behind the app’s functionality is to draw you in and keep you on track with your training.
A home subscription (for a single PC) allows up to three riders for ride streaming ERG videos while a studio subscription allows up to 24 riders on one PC. There is also a free version that is already great on its own but lacks some of the features of the paid versions.
The tool also stands out from other apps due to its multi-camera functions.
- Subscription: $10 / month for home and $60 / month for studio
- Free trial period: You can use the free version indefinitely
- OS Compatibility: Windows
- Connectivity: ANT+ FE-C
19. PerfPro
PerfPro is a performance and training app for home and studio use. The tool supports unlimited indoor bikes, bike trainers, rowers, and treadmills. The interactive training sessions the software offers are things that might interest you. Full video integration is offered during these training sessions.
- Subscription: One-time payment only. Price range $129.99- $499.99
- Free trial period: 14-day no risk-free trial
- OS Compatibility: Windows
- Connectivity: ANT+ FE-C
20. SOL Cycling
SOL Cycling is still in its development stages. If you are one of those guys that like to try out apps before being fully released, you might want to try this free indoor cycling software.
So, what’s in it for you? The beta version of the app gives you the right balance between training and gameplay. According to its developers, the app will feature more Mars terrains, story missions, and routes.
An online scoreboard is also set to be released once the full version is introduced. With these features, the app might bring you a new cycling experience you’ve not seen in other tools.
- Subscription: $19.99 one time download
- Free trial period: Demo version available
- OS Compatibility: Windows, macOS
- Connectivity: ANT+ FE-C, BLE FTMS
Takeaway
There are so many options of free and paid indoor cycling software to choose from. When deciding on which one to use, you need to consider your preferences.
Are you the type of person who would benefit from a visually engaging training app? Then you might want to look into immersive indoor cycling apps like Zwift or Rouvy. If you’re not so much into gamified training, you might want to consider TrainerRoad or Trainer Day.
You also have to consider how much you are willing to pay for a subscription. If you’re on a tight budget, you might want to look into the less popular but more affordable turbo training apps.
The good thing about these apps is that most of them give you a free trial period so you can several apps and find the best fit before committing.