Zwift Hub One: Smart trainer with just one sprocket and virtual gear shifting

Zwift's new smart trainer, the Zwift Hub One, is available in stores from today. It is designed to make it easier to get started with indoor cycling training.

What is the difference between the new Zwift Hub One and the Zwift Hub?

Probably the most striking difference between the Zwift Hub One and the original hub is the Zwift Cog. With this one sprocket, the new Smart Trainer from Zwift is compatible with almost all bikes with 8- to 12-speed drivetrains. The design of the Zwift Cog is such that chain drops are a thing of the past - the sides keep the chain where it belongs.

How does the Zwift Hub One differ from other direct drive smart trainers?

Just like the first version of the Zwift Hub, other Smart Trainers with direct drive also utilise the gears on the bike. This means that a cassette that matches the bike must be fitted to the trainer. This can be annoying if the trainer is used with differently equipped bikes. Not so with the Zwift Hub One. One cog fits most is the motto here - one sprocket for (almost) all.

Only one sprocket. How do you shift gears on the Zwift Hub One?

One sprocket does not mean that we have to ride single-speed with the Zwift Hub One. On the contrary: it shifts virtually. Virtual shifting is something we've seen before on smart bikes, but now it's also available to those who don't want to dig too deep into their pockets. This allows you to shift gears without delay and without the chain jumping off - even under load.

The virtual switching operations are controlled with the supplied wireless Zwift Clickwhich can be easily attached to any handlebar (road bike, mountain bike, time trial) with two rubber O-rings. Shifting gears is very simple: the plus and minus buttons are used to shift up or down. The Zwift Hub One has 24 gears, enough to shift any gear. Zwift Terrain with minimal jumps between gears.

What are the advantages of virtual switching?

Modern trainers are now so quiet that most of the noise comes from the bike drive. The virtual circuit eliminates much of this extra noise so that the rest of the house can enjoy peace and quiet while the Zwifters let off steam in the virtual world of Watopia.

>> 38 smart trainers in the test: everything about roller training

In addition, "real gear ratio calibration" is used to create uniformity between individual bikes. In the first few seconds of each ride, the gear ratio is automatically calibrated and the trainer recognises the ratios on the real bike. In addition to the benefits for riders with multiple bikes, the calibration also offers advantages for riders with smaller chainrings, such as those found on gravel and mountain bikes. What does that look like? Calibration avoids having to ride at exorbitantly high cadences on flat terrain or downhill.

Which bikes is the Zwift Hub One compatible with?

Following on from the answer to the previous question, we will now look at which bikes the Hub One is compatible with. The prerequisite is that the bike has an 8- to 12-speed drivetrain. The new Zwift Hub One smart trainer is therefore suitable for a wide range of bikes and offers a similar riding experience on all of them thanks to the calibration.

How much does the Zwift Hub One cost?

The new Zwift Hub One is available to buy from today and costs €599.

I already have a Zwift Hub - can I still switch virtually?

>> First generation Zwift Hub in the TOUR test

For those who wish to upgrade their existing Zwift hub units, a Zwift Cog + Zwift Click upgrade package available for purchase. Zwift Cog is pre-installed on a freehub and can be easily installed using the tools included with the Zwift Hub. The upgrade pack will be available for a limited time after launch for £59.99 to allow existing Zwift Hub owners to upgrade, after which it will be available for £79.99.

Can I also switch with Zwift Play?

Yes, side buttons on the Play Controllers enable virtual shifting and also offer the advantage of improved game navigation as well as steering and braking control.

Practical: Zwift Play and Click can be paired with Zwift at the same time, giving riders the option of shifting gears from several positions on the handlebars. But beware: Zwift Play is only compatible with dropbar handlebars. The Zwift Play Controller cost 99 euros and are available at zwift.com.

Will the Zwift Hub still be available?

Zwift Hub, with a choice of traditional 8-12 speed cassettes, will continue to be sold under the new name Zwift Hub Classic. Both trainers cost €599 and include a one-year Zwift membership. Both are available directly from Zwift.

Advantages and disadvantages of the first generation Zwift Hub from our TOUR test

>> The whole test can be found here

Advantages of the Zwift Hub

• Price
• Good driving experience
• Quiet

Disadvantages of the Zwift roller trainer

• Fluctuating performance values
• not foldable
• No carrying handle