Indoor cycling has come a long way in recent years. What was once seen as a boring alternative to outdoor riding is now a dynamic, engaging and effective form of training thanks to the technology powering the most cutting-edge virtual cycling platforms. Today’s indoor cycling apps deliver way more than just a spin class. They recreate the thrill of the open road through immersive virtual environments, scenic real-world routes and interactive experiences that motivate and challenge riders.
Top platforms like ROUVY, Zwift, TrainerRoad, BKOOL and FulGaz offer a range of features for different types of cyclists – from competitive racers to recreational fitness seekers. Whether you’re looking to get fit or maybe lose a little weight, boost your speed through structured workouts, compete in virtual races, or ride iconic cycling destinations from the comfort of home, there’s a platform for you.
This comparison guide goes into the strengths and standout features of each app to help you decide which virtual cycling experience is the best fit. No matter where you are in your cycling or fitness journey, the right indoor platform can make your training more effective and a heck of a lot more fun.
Finding the best indoor cycling app for you
These days, you're spoiled for choice when it comes to apps that cater to all types of riders. That's where this guide comes in: to help you decide which of the top five indoor cycling apps is right for you.
We're comparing apps to give you the inside track on what each offers. Each one of these offers a unique take on the virtual cycling experience.
ROUVY's real-world routes come to life with augmented-reality elements. What sets it apart is its use of actual video footage of real cycling locations. According to Ben Coxworth at New Atlas, one of the things that makes ROUVY special “is the fact that instead of being completely computer-generated, many of its routes are created from actual professionally-shot video of real rides on some of the planet's most picturesque cycling circuits.” The end result is an authentic training, racing and exploring experience without ever leaving home.
Zwift is a pioneer in blending gaming elements with indoor cycling, creating an immersive experience that feels more like an adventure than a workout. The platform emphasizes gamification, offering achievements, virtual rewards, and dynamic races that keep riders motivated and engaged. Writing in Cyclists Hub, Petr Minarik noted that “some cyclists find Zwift’s cartoonish virtual world reminiscent of children’s games, so they don’t like it.” However, Zwift boasts a passionate global community that thrives on competition, enjoys group rides, and values the social connection that virtual interaction provides.
TrainerRoad is where a lot of serious cyclists go to improve their performance. Data-driven training is its bread and butter. You get meticulously crafted plans based on science and personalized analytics. That means you can choose from hundreds of structured workouts tailored to your goals – whether that's building endurance, increasing your FTP or peaking for a race. These options let you train smarter and see measurable results. The app is “a great choice for cyclists who are serious about improving their performance and want to take advantage of personalized training plans and cutting-edge technology,” Minarik wrote.
BKOOL blends real-world routes with 3D graphics to create an immersive ride. Social interaction is a big part of the experience. You can connect, compete and share your experiences with a global community. The app’s variety of routes and workout options means cyclists of all interests and skill levels are catered for. In Cycling Weekly, Tom Epton noted “BKOOL … has a couple of unique features, including virtual velodromes and arguably the most realistic in-game dynamics of any virtual riding platform.” But Epton concluded that BKOOL “is one of the cheapest cycling simulators, but lower quality and less engaging features come with the lower price.”
And FulGaz takes the immersive experience to the next level with its high-definition, real-world video footage. Filmed routes from around the globe put you right in the action as every climb, descent and stretch of road is captured with stunning realism. At road.cc, Emily Tillett wrote, “For simulating a route, Fulgaz is very impressive because you can set it to three modes – steady, reactive or challenge. The app also allows you to set up things like wind speed, rolling resistance, and aerodynamic drag, which is an excellent way of simulating race day!”
Ultimately the best indoor cycling app is the one that keeps you motivated, fits your goals and makes every indoor ride enjoyable.
Free trials: Try before you buy
To get started, most of these apps offer a free trial. This lets you try the interface, test the training features and see how well each app connects to your indoor-cycling setup. Whether you’re on a budget (or even looking for free indoor cycling options), or you’re ready to invest in premium tools, knowing what each app offers is key. Here’s a breakdown of the free trials for each platform:
ROUVY offers all new subscribers a free 7-day trial. After the trial ends, you can either continue with a paid subscription to enjoy full access, or cancel your subscription, which will still let you ride on ROUVY for free, but with limited access and riding time. All registered ROUVY users with cancelled accounts can use the limited free account.
Zwift provides new monthly subscribers a 14-day free trial. New subscribers with an annual membership do not get a free trial, but can cancel their membership and receive a full refund within the first 30 days.
TrainerRoad does not offer a free trial, but does provide new users with a 30-day, money-back guarantee.
BKOOL lets new users get their feet wet with a 7-day free trial.
New FulGaz users – whether they’re on a monthly or annual plan – start off with a 14-day free trial.
