The indoor training platform Zwift launches stage 4 of Zwift Unlocked today, adding 31 kilometres to the New York map. This expansion marks the company's largest map addition in five years and nearly doubles the available route network in the virtual metropolis. The new areas connect well-known landmarks such as Times Square, Brooklyn Bridge and historic Prospect Park through a futuristic network of glass sky roads.
The route network differs significantly from the previous climbs around Central Park. The new routes offer faster, winding roads with moderate gradients that are particularly suitable for speed and sprint training. The glass Sky Roads enable routes that would be impossible in the real world and create completely new tactical possibilities for group rides and races.
Power segments for performance training
With the expansion, Zwift is introducing a new form of training: power segments in the replica New York underground. These segments exclusively measure the maximum wattage over defined periods of 5, 10 and 20 seconds. Unlike conventional sprint segments, only the pure power output counts here, not the speed or position against other riders.
The power segments appear on the map as illuminated start arcs with an integrated timer. During exercise, the head-up display shows the current average performance as well as the personal best performances of the last 90 days and the past year. This function enables targeted training of specific performance areas and documents the development of anaerobic capacity. The highest wattage charts provide additional motivation, focussing on personal performance improvement.
Technical integration and community features
The new tracks utilise Zwift's proven MMOG technology for seamless integration into the existing platform. Trainers and treadmills connect wirelessly to the app and transfer the real performance directly into the virtual world. The 3D visualisation of the New York landmarks reaches a new level of detail that enhances the immersive experience.
Zwift Unlocked Stage 4 is the first community event to start on the new routes and offers double experience points for all participants. These events promote the social component of the platform and enable joint exploratory rides through the expanded metropolis. Integration into existing group rides and structured training programmes is automatic, so trainers can immediately adapt their units to the new route profiles.
Leon Weidner
Working student
