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Ultimately, Zwift’s founders hope that this new form of competitive cycling will one day appear at the Olympics – which could happen if the Olympic cycling body, the UCI, gives its support. Probably things are already moving in that direction. Last June, Zwift made its debut at a new event called the Olympic Virtual Series, which was set up by the International Olympic Committee. And one of the differences between e-cycling and other elite tracks is that it is relatively easy for everyone to participate.
“Everyone, anywhere in the world, from the comfort of their own home, can go through a process of eligibility,” said Zwift’s strategic director, Sean Paris.
Work through the ranks
So Eisler made the cut. She was unsuccessful during a qualifying round open to consumers across America, but managed to enter the US national team through a separate qualifying process. She is not a complete novice, having participated in triathlons as a student. But virtual competitions are no less exciting than outdoor events. “You feel the adrenaline,” says Eisler. “You know you’re up against real-life people who are really strong.”
Isler and her fellow World Championship riders will receive the same smart simulator – a device that replaces the rear wheel of a stationary bike – so that they can compete on a level playing field. Smart simulators automatically increase or decrease resistance to match the feel of the Zwift course’s virtual road surface. It is even possible to simulate pavers.
Data plays a big role on platforms like Zwift, and riders tend to constantly monitor their performance. Their heart rate, speed and power in watts, among other statistics, are visible on the screen at any time during a race. Commentators can choose from some of these live stats to show viewers how hard an individual athlete works.
Eisler, for example, knows that he must keep his heart rate (measured in beats per minute) below a certain level to avoid a breakdown. “I can recover if my heart rate reaches 185, but if I hit 195, I can’t,” she said. Tracking her numbers on the screen allows her to get closer to her limit without exceeding it, and that’s something she says she’s gotten better over time.
Real-time performance data for each rider will also allow Zwift and UCI staff to spot all possible championship fraudsters. Athletes can use a variety of tricks, from lying about their weight, which could give them an advantage in strength, to trying to adjust the game.
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