I got the Tron bike. But I started on Zwift back in 2015 when it was a LOT cheaper and there were fewer decent options. Then I immigrated to Sufferlandria and never looked back.
I’ve ridden in Zwift many times when dual-recording as scenery for my SYSTM no-vids, or while riding random shenanigans. So I’ve gained many miles of climbing without actually climbing. Made earning the Tron bike pretty easy. Although I’ve also used Zwift for climbing practice as well, so I’ve earned it either way. Never by everesting. Only just chipping away at it once small ride at a time.
I don’t have any experience with Rouvy but have several years of riding on Zwift (after RGT was discontinued). Back in December I did a ‘climbing challenge’ (most elevation recorded in a week) and experimented with the various courses on Zwift to get me the most elevation (5000 to 6000 feet) in a roughly 2 1/2 to 3 hour time window. I came up with the following courses:
Oh Hill No (2.2 mile climb/1000 ft elevation). This took me about 25 minutes up, 5 minutes down. I could jump off the bike on the descent and stretch or do anything I needed to do. The vEveresting group used this course around the end of 2025 for their event.
Mountain Mash (3.5 mile climb/1099 ft elevation). This was a little longer on the ascent (35-40 min) but the descent does have an ‘ascent’ portion, so not as much off bike time. It also doesn’t loop as easy as Oh Hill No. I figured out a way to make the elevation per loop 1250 ft.
Road To Sky (Alpe D’Zwift). (10.7 mile climb/3428 ft elevation). The classic vEveresting route for most people. It’s a long climb and the descent takes more time than needed for a rest. But less trips up and down than the shorter climbs.
Ven-Top (Ventoux) (13 miles, 5033 ft elevation). If you like long climbs, this is the one. LikeRoad To Sky, there is a long descent. I also did some of the variations like Ven-10 (first 10k) and La Reine (which doesn’t go to the top but I added that on).
I did change my gearing on my Wahoo Kickr bike to a lower ratio climbing gear. I usually have it set up like my road bike (35x33 is the lowest) and changed to a 33x33 or 33x36 for doing mega climbing miles to save the knees. That being said, I’ll do Mt. Lemmon (7500 ft/31 mi) in a couple of days on my road bike using the 35x33 low gear.
#relatable
With that great set of workout polos you may be the best dressed knight ever!
Fantastic work on your dress rehearsal.
You’re going to nail your knighthood in style.
The magic of ProRides! I ride along at 50% or less of the pro’s wattage, but I keep up!
I guess it’s the benefit of losing 65lbs to date. Needed replacement polos, the XLs became workout shirts.
Excellent! You are really ready to rock now!
I would suppose those polo-tees add an additional challenge to everything because it’s sure hotter than wearing cycling jerseys isn’t it?
I doubt it, but I don’t think I’ve ever worn a jersey on a trainer… It’s basically the same performance fabric.
Passport control starts shortly with the Prologue. Should you choose to donate to charity in honor of my Quest, I offer a couple personal alternatives. Jusst Sooup Ministries » Jusst Sooup Ministries is a local place that was built by the Home Builder I now work for (prior to my arrival) as part of the TV show Extreme Home Makeover. I help Ms. Dale with all sorts of odd chores. My recovery week with involve cleaning and planting her very large garden.
Charity option #2 would be your local Veteran’s charity of choice. As a nearly 70% combat disabled, retired U.S. Coast Guard member, I feel very fortunate to have had wonderful support throughout the challenging times. There are many great organizations out there offering a range of services to veterans.
Bottles are ready, videos downloaded on 3 separate devices, pieces are all in place, and the entire collection of workout polos are in place for the Best Dressed badge also. See you in about an hour!
And… He’s off! Let the enterpainment begin.
