Home of the Harvest Homecoming Bicycle Tour!
VIRTUAL CYCLING
When the weather turns nasty, 'virtual' cycling is an option for maintaining fitness and enjoying cycling. By using electronic sensors (speed and cadence sensors) or a 'smart' trainer, combined with a computer program, cyclists can mimic riding outside in the comfort of their own homes. There is a great variety of equipment and programs available. For a more in-depth review of some of the options available, check out this virtual cycling site. The information below outlines some options SIW has so far.
SIW Zwift Club
For Club members who ride on Zwift, we now have a SIW Zwift club. To join the SIW Zwift Club, follow these steps:
- Follow Joe Bolan (Joe Bolan Kos [ATP]) on Zwift
- Contact Joe at bolanbiker@earthlink.net and let him know your Zwift "name" (and anything that cam help him identify you on Zwift, especially if your name is common)
- Accept the invitation
NOTE: If you get a message about not being in Joe's address book, DO NOT PANIC. Joe will get your email and he will add you.
Why Join?
Zwift Clubs can put on rides for its members, and the riders can ride together. Zwift may also add more Club benefits, as outlined here.
Communication
Much of the fun of a group ride is the banter between the riders. While Zwift has a "chat" function, typing messages can be difficult, and the meaning of the message can be misunderstood if just text. Fortunately, there are audio platforms available.
SIW has a Discord channel. The code is https://discord.gg/QDz6KbBf8F. This channel can be used for any audio meeting, not just a Zwift ride. For example, if you are riding on a Rouvy ride with another club member, you could both log into the server. If needed, we can always add sub-channels.
Events
A main feature of Zwift Clubs is the ability to put on events for club members. ANY SIW Zwift Club member can put on a ride. For more details on putting on an event, check this article from Zwift Insider.
Racing
Zwift racing is another popular activity. You can race independently, but joining a team increases the opportunities and the fun. While SIW does not have a racing team, there are many teams on Zwift. For more information on racing, click here.
Virtual Access
You can access cycling programs using computers, tablets and smart phones, depending on the program you are using. Check the requirements for the program you are using to see if your computer or phone is compatable. Programs are constantly updating these requirements, so be sure to keep your software updated!
Equipment
There is a great variety of equipment available. Check here for a starting point, or visit our sponsor, Clarksville Schwinn for everything you need to enjoy your virtual journeys.
Other Platforms
Zwift is not the only cycling platform. Do you use another platform, such as Rouvy, myWhoosh or B-KOOL? Contact the webmaster at bolanbiker@earthlink.net to have your information included on this page. Hope to "see" you on the road, even if it is a "virtual" one!