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news
‘Like Zwift, but different’ (and free) – new indoor training app RGT Cycling launches
A new computer game-style virtual cycling simulator has launched this week after four years in development. RGT Cycling – formerly known as Road Grand Tours – costs £12.99 a month for the premium version, but you can also ride a stripped down version for free.
We took a look at RGT in May of last year. (You can watch the video above.) It’s designed to be a social platform with a multiplayer environment, where you can enter races and set up rides with friends.
There are currently eight courses for users to explore. As well as major climbs like Mont Ventoux, the Stelvio and Cap de Formentor, you can also ride round Canary Wharf or over the Paterberg. There’s also a Tuscan course featuring the strade bianche.
One of the platform’s most striking features is Magic Roads. This converts a GPX file into a virtual course, echoing all the gradient changes and twists and turns of the original route. This is only available for premium users however.
There are structured workouts and training packages too.
RGT Cycling say they've done extensive work into rider's movements to make the virtual world as realistic as possible, with drafting and braking all taken into consideration. “Hairpin corners are not taken at 70kph,” they emphasise. All of this means that they reckon team tactics become a real possibility.
Both the 'Freemium' and Premium subscriptions are available now from the website. You’ll need to download the mobile app (available on iPhone and Android) to connect your devices and register, and also the Screen App (for Windows, Mac, iPad and Apple TV) to give you the display.
Alex has written for more cricket publications than the rest of the road.cc team combined. Despite the apparent evidence of this picture, he doesn't especially like cake.
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12 comments
Very narcked!
I was on the Beta programme, which was great and ran on my laptop. I have an Ant+ power meter and now it only works from mobile app with screen share to laptop. I have both a 30pin Wahoo dongle and a USB3 , but neither seem to work .
I can't get an iPhone iOS 13 supported Ant+ dongle for lightning. Basically have no way of using Ant+ RGT on Apple!
I understand easier to support limited platforms, but this was a step backwards. I've raised a support ticket but no response for 48 hours.
I'm sad that so far I can't continue with the RGT experience.
BGW
Its difficult to break into the turbo training market. Zwift is the biggest draw for racing, social and solo efforts.
The likes of Trainer Road are for no fuss dedicated training.
RGT needs to be able to entice Zwift users over onto their platform, that will be very difficult.
I run two platforms and really don't have enough free time to try another without dropping a current simulator.
No, no, no! The options are 'free' and 'premium' - it's the whole model of the two together that's 'Freemium'. Tch!
Has anyone here downloaded the Windows screen app?
Two reviews of 1 star mentioning a virus, one on 20th of December. I've asked them about it on Twitter and sure it is nothing, but for now holding off downloading - shame as was going to try tonight.
If anyone is interested:
https://www.microsoft.com/en-gb/p/rgt-screen/9mzv7l8csgct?activetab=pivo...
Hello
Sorry for the delay and responding and thanks for taking the time to check the App out!
We're aware of this issue.
Firstly - We are clean as a whistle. We have no problems with viruses. The problem is with overzealous antivirus software publishers such as AVG and Avast identifying the App as a risk.
We're working with them to get this resolved.
We have a help page on this here - https://roadgrandtours.atlassian.net/servicedesk/customer/portal/1/artic...
Any more questions please fire away
Thanks
Team RGT
Hello!
Thank you for taking the time to look us up! This is a known issue with a few overzealous antivirus products such as Avast and AVG.
The software wrongly identifies RGT Cycling as a risk. When we can assure you it is not.
Please see here for more information - https://roadgrandtours.atlassian.net/servicedesk/customer/portal/1/artic...
We would love to see you join us for a ride!
Looks interesting... will sign up to the free version.
I'm a TrainerRoad devotee, but its nice to have a change but Zwift is too expensive to justify for the occasional session.
I found Zwift very good, but didn't really work with a dumb trainer and I'm too mean to shell out for a smart one. The more steady state efforts in the long, real climbs of RGT may suit better.
The only issue with RGT before was bandwidth required- broadband where I live is rubbish, so I'm reliant on 4G.
As for user base, I've personally no issue with riding with a bot rather than some random fella.
I might try it if there is a free version. Not that interested in paying a monthly subscription when I would probably only use it on icey days when I wouldn't want to ride outside.
Wonder if anyone does a "pay per play"......
Basically what Pmsap said, slightly different reasons.
I got a trainter in the autumn, following an injury (still not been allowed back out on a real ride yet). The trainer came with a trial subscription to Zwift and Rouvy (possibly others, can't remember). After doing some reading I decided to go for Rouvy first, as it was most like the type of riding I do. Out on my own, no desire to race, videos of real places. I really like it, and although I would much sooner be out on my bike, it is very good.
I thought at some point that I'd load the zwift trial, but I really can't be bothered.
RGT are goint to have to offer something different to tempt people from what they are already using.
Thanks for taking the time to respond.
We're genuine in our commitment to making indoor cycling accessible. This is why we're offering users the chance to experience the majority of the platform on the Freemium Subscription.
You can participate in group rides and races for free and explore the Real Roads.
We're not content with low-grade video uploads or the level of immersion offered by video. On RGT you can control the camera and views, this leads to an amazing experience.
We will keep pushing forward, but we need your help to get it right.
We would love to hear from you with what features would be attractive - support(at)rgtcycling.com
The problem is that zwift now has the size advantage (this is a network good). I don't have interest in joining because not enough people are there. But if everyone does the same the platform will never grow. The same for zwift. Even if I think they should improve, if I want to race, I have to stay where everyone else is. They will have to give first time movers big advantages. Charging the same that zwift does will just not cut it.
Dang, that's hard to hear
Don't forget, a huge amount of the platform is available to ride for free! That's our offer to everyone, not just first movers.
We can do a favorable exchange rate on your Drops too!!!
Our suggestion to you - Pick one of our group rides or races and join in with these. It's free so you can explore without the need to take on a subscription and the number of participants is high enough to give that sense of fulfillment!
It would be great to have you onboard either way!