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    Frames & WheelsSpeed TestsGetting Started

    Zwift Shopping Guide: What To Buy At Each Level

    Eric Schlange
    By Eric Schlange
    February 4, 2020
    LAST UPDATED February 22, 2023
    193

    As you progress through Zwift’s levels, you’ll unlock access to items in the Drop Shop which can be purchased with your hard-earned Drops. This inevitably leads to questions: do I buy the frame I just unlocked? What if there’s a faster frame unlocked next level? Or maybe some zippy wheels?

    Learn how Zwift’s levels, XP, and unlocks work >
    Learn how Drops are calculated >

    Here’s a complete list of frames and wheels unlocked at each level, with the most useful unlocks marked in bold and the key purchases marked with a MUST BUY. We’ve even added notes so you know what makes those unlocks special!

    Of course, you may want to purchase a particular frame or wheelset just because it looks cool or matches what you ride outdoors. Nothing wrong with that! Our recommendations, though, are based entirely on speed test performance.

    Level 1

    • Zwift Gravel frame (163,300 Drops) – one of the slowest gravel frames, but also the only one you can get before level 10. So if you’re looking to race on virtual gravel, you may want to pick this up! (Note: pick up one of the name brand gravel wheelsets below, since they roll better in dirt than the stock Zwift gravel wheels. They all perform equally.)
    • CADEX AR 35 gravel wheels (21,300 Drops)
    • ENVE G23 gravel wheels (17,800 Drops)
    • Reserve 25 GR gravel wheels (11,400 Drops)
    • Roval Terra CLX gravel wheels (17,800 Drops)

    Level 2

    • Zwift Classic frame (35,600 Drops)
    • Cannondale Caad12 frame (184,500 Drops)

    Level 3

    • Ridley Helium frame (461,500 Drops)

    Level 4

    • ENVE SES 3.4 wheels (191,700 Drops) – listed in fastest climbing wheels and fastest beginner wheels. The 3.4s are a steal if you’re looking for great climbing wheels early in your Zwift career.
    • Specialized Allez frame (127,800 Drops)

    Level 5

    • Roval CLX64 wheels (170,400 Drops) – listed in fastest wheels level 30 and below, and fastest beginner wheels.
    • Specialized Epic S-Works frame (675,900 Drops)
    • Specialized Roubaix frame (461,500 Drops)
    • Specialized Roubaix frame S-Works (745,500 Drops)
    • Specialized Ruby frame (461,500 Drops)
    • Specialized Ruby S-Works frame (745,500 Drops)
    • Specialized Tarmac SL7 frame (674,500 Drops)

    Level 6

    • MUST BUY! DT Swiss ARC 62 wheels 184,600 Drops) – listed in fastest climbing wheels, fastest wheels level 30 and below, and fastest beginner wheels. A solid set of all-around wheels, good if you’re looking for something that climbs well while remaining quite aero.
    • Chapter2 Tere frame (390,500 Drops)
    • Zwift Aero frame (319,500 Drops) – listed in fastest beginner frames. The first fast frame, Zwift Aero is very common in races. Want to stand out in the crowd a bit? Hold onto your Drops and pick up the Focus Izalco Max (level 8) or Factor One (level 8). These frames deliver even better performance!
    Zwift Aero (left), Ribble Endurance (right)

    Level 7

    • Zwift 50mm Carbon wheels (120,700 Drops)
    • Ribble Endurance frame (390,500 Drops) – listed in fastest beginner frames (see note above).
    • Zwift Steel frame (142,000 Drops)

    Level 8

    • CADEX 42 wheels (227,200 Drops)
    • HED Vanquish RC6 Pro wheels (227,200 Drops)
    • Giant TCR Advanced SL frame (305,300 Drops)
    • Focus Izalco Max 2020 frame (426,000 Drops) – listed in fastest beginner frames (see note above).
    • Factor One frame (426,000 Drops) – listed in fastest beginner frames (see note above).

    Level 9

    • Mavic Cosmic Ultimate UST wheels (142,000 Drops)
    • Cannondale EVO frame (213,000 Drops) – listed in fastest climbing frames. Tied with some of the best climbers in game, the EVO is a sweet deal at this price.
    • Ridley Noah Fast 2019 frame (426,000 Drops) – listed in fastest beginner frames (see note above).

    Level 10

    • Canyon Inflite frame (234,300 Drops)
    • Canyon Lux frame (461,500 Drops)
    • Canyon Ultimate frame (461,500 Drops)
    • Specialized Shiv frame (710,000 Drops)
    • Specialized Shiv S-Works frame (852,000 Drops) – listed in fastest tt climbing frames. Looking to do some fast, solo climbing? This is the frame for it. But it’s not cheap!
    • MUST BUY! Canyon Aeroad 2021 frame (568,000 Drops)

    Level 11

    • Zipp 202 wheels (149,200 Drops)
    • Specialized Tarmac Pro frame (408,300 Drops) – listed in fastest climbing frames. Buy it if you don’t already have the Cannondale EVO. Put it in your garage. Use it on hard climbs.

    Level 12

    • Shimano C40 wheels (85,300 Drops)
    • Cannondale Synapse frame (298,200 Drops)
    • Van Rysel EDR CF frame (326,600 Drops)
    • Specialized Diverge frame (532,500 Drops)

    Level 13

    • MUST BUY! Zipp 808 wheels (177,600 Drops) – listed in fastest wheels, fastest wheels level 30 and below, and fastest beginner wheels. The most aero wheels you can buy until level 31. So you’d better pick up a set!
    • Cervelo Aspero frame (426,000 Drops) – the most aero gravel bike, it’s not a top climber but still a smart upgrade if you’re racing gravel.
    • Cervelo S3D frame (468,600 Drops) – listed in fastest beginner frames. The fastest frame you’ve had access to so far, but next level you can get an even faster one which climbs better! May be prudent to save those Drops.

    Level 14

    • Giant TCR Advanced SL Disc frame (745,500 Drops)
    • Specialized Allez Sprint frame (127,800 Drops) – listed in fastest beginner frames. Just like IRL, this frame is a great buy in terms of price/performance.
    • Giant Revolt Advanced Pro frame (298,200 Drops)
    • Liv Devote Advanced Pro frame (298,200 Drops)

    Level 15

    • Zipp 404 wheels (149,200 Drops) – listed in fastest climbing wheels, fastest wheels level 30 and below, and fastest beginner wheels. Decent hoops, but if you’ve already bought better climbing or flat road wheels, there’s no compelling reason to grab the 404s.
    • Cervelo P5 frame (710,000 Drops) – listed in fastest tt frames, and fastest tt climbing frames. The P5 is a decent all-around frame and the fastest TT frame for flat roads you’ve got access to. If you’re doing TT racing, it’s probably worth adding to your garage.
    • Bridgestone Anchor RS9s frame (511,200 Drops) – listed in fastest climbing frames.
    • Moots Vamoots frame (852,000 Drops)
    • Allied Able frame (721,000 Drops)
    • Ventum NS1 frame (638,900 Drops)

    Level 16

    • Mavic Cosmic CXR60c wheels (142,000 Drops)
    • Chapter2 Rere frame (355,000 Drops)
    • Parlee ESX frame (603,500 Drops)
    • Quintana Roo V-PR frame (638,600 Drops)

    Level 17

    • ENVE SES 2.2 wheels (191,700 Drops)
    • Scott Foil frame (781,000 Drops)
    • Scott Plasma frame (852,000 Drops) – listed in fastest tt climbing frames. A good climber, but you’ve already got access to a better climber (Shiv S-Works, Level 10), so you may not need this one.
    • Scott Spark RC frame (418,900 Drops)
    • MUST BUY! Specialized Crux frame (869,800 Drops) – the best climbing gravel bike, the Crux is probably the best gravel rig all around, beating all others on the Jungle Circuit. Pick it up if you’re racing gravel.

    Level 18

    • Shimano C60 wheels (92,300 Drops)
    • Specialized Shiv Disc frame (994,000 Drops) – listed in fastest tt frames. The fastest TT frame you’ve been able to access thus far. If you’re picky about those TT times, buy this bike!
    • Specialized Venge frame (461,500 Drops) – listed in fastest frames level 30 and below.
    • Chapter2 TOA frame (426,000 Drops) – listed in fastest frames.
    • Colnago V3Rs frame (695,800 Drops)

    Level 19

    • BMC SLR01 frame (376,200 Drops)
    • Canyon Ultimate CFR frame (639,000 Drops)
    • Uranium Nuclear frame (184,500 Drops) – listed in fastest frames.
    • Zipp 353 NSW wheels (255,600 Drops) – listed in fastest climbing wheels.

    Level 20

    • Bontrager Aeolus5 wheels (170,400 Drops)
    • Trek Madone frame (887,500 Drops) – listed in fastest frames and fastest frames level 30 and below. A new fastest frame for you, but just barely faster than the Canyon Aeroad you probably already picked up (and only on flat ground).

    Level 21

    • CADEX 65 wheels (241,400 Drops)
    • Canyon Speedmax frame (710,000 Drops)
    • BMC Roadmachine frame (780,900 Drops)
    • Scott Spark RC World Cup (745,400 Drops)

    Level 22

    • Giant SLR 0 wheels (191,800 Drops) – listed in fastest climbing wheels
    • Giant Propel Advanced SL Disc frame (816,500 Drops)
    • Liv Langma Advanced SL frame (745,500 Drops)
    • Liv Langma Advanced SL Disc frame (745,500 Drops)

    Level 23

    • Mavic Comete Pro Carbon SL UST wheels (142,000 Drops)
    • Canyon Grail frame (355,000 Drops)

    Level 24

    • Zipp 454 wheels (284,000 Drops) – listed in climbing wheels and fastest wheels level 30 and below. A decent set of all-around wheels, good if you’re looking for something that climbs well while remaining quite aero.
    • BMC Timemachine01 frame (781,000 Drops)
    • Cervelo R5 frame (461,500 Drops)

    Level 25

    • ENVE SES 6.7 wheels (191,700 Drops) – listed in fastest wheels level 30 and below. Nice-looking hoops, but if you’ve got the Zipp 808s there’s no performance benefit to picking these up as well.
    • Cervelo S5 frame (603,500 Drops) – listed in fastest frames, fastest frames level 30 and below. The S5 is a very fast frame on flat roads, and a good climber as well. It won’t beat the Tron bike on flat roads, but it’ll beat the Tron bike up a mountain, if you throw on some lightweight hoops.
    • Pinarello Bolide frame (923,000 Drops)

    Level 26

    • Canyon Speedmax CF SLX Disc TT frame (891,000 Drops) – listed in fastest tt frames, this is the second-fastest TT frame.
    • CADEX 36 wheels (257,000 Drops)
    • Trek Emonda SL frame (142,000 Drops)

    Level 27

    • Cervelo S5 2020 frame (852,000 Drops) – listed in fastest frames.
    • Campagnolo Bora Ultra 50 wheels (262,700 Drops) – listed in fastest climbing wheels.
    • Cannondale System Six frame (497,000 Drops) – listed in and fastest frames level 30 and below.

    Level 28

    • Shimano C50 wheels (88,700 Drops)
    • Cube Aerium frame (248,500 Drops)
    • Parlee RZ7 frame (511,200 Drops)

    Level 29

    • Pinarello Dogma 65.1 frame (603,500 Drops)
    • Pinarello Dogma F12 frame (958,500 Drops)

    Level 31

    • MUST BUY! ENVE SES 8.9 wheels (205,900 Drops) – listed in fastest wheels. Slightly faster than the Zipp 808s, the 8.9s are the fastest wheels you’ll be able to pick up until level 35.
    • Specialized Amira frame (142,000 Drops)
    • Specialized Amira S-Works frame (355,000 Drops) – listed in fastest climbing frames.
    • Ventum One frame (482,800 Drops) – listed in fastest tt frames.

    Level 32

    • Pinarello Dogma F frame (1,029,500 Drops) – listed in fastest climbing frames and fastest frames.
    • Roval Alpinist CLX wheels (135,300 Drops) – #1 climbing wheels (only buy these if you haven’t yet unlocked the Lightweight Meilensteins)
    • Cube Litening frame (177,500 Drops)
    • Trek Speed Concept SLR 9 frame (958,500 Drops)
    • Cube Litening C:68X frame (373,500 Drops)

    Level 33

    • Scott Addict RC frame (852,000 Drops) – listed in fastest climbing frames. The best all-arounder available in the Drop Shop.
    • Campagnolo Bora Ultra 35 wheels (248,500 Drops)
    • Specialized Venge S-Works frame (798,800 Drops) – listed in fastest frames.
    S-Works Venge (left), Felt AR (right)

    Level 34

    • MUST BUY! Specialized Aethos frame (923,000 Drops) – listed in fastest climbing frames, it’s the best climber on Zwift by a big margin. The Aethos belongs in your garage if you want to climb as quickly as possible.
    • Felt AR frame (639,000 Drops) – listed in fastest frames.

    Level 35

    • Zipp 808/Super9 wheels (1,075,700 Drops) – listed in fastest wheels. The fastest wheels you’ve been able to buy so far. If you’re into TT races, buy these for sure. Otherwise, only get them if you’re willing to look a bit silly sporting a disc in a road race.
    • Diamondback Andean frame (572,900 Drops)

    Level 36

    • Cannondale SuperSix EVO frame (816,500 Drops) – listed in fastest climbing frames.

    Level 37

    • Zipp 858 wheels (312,400 Drops) – listed in fastest wheels. A favorite among many racers, the 858s are the fastest non-disc wheels in game, and they climb a bit better than the heavy discs. A good choice for the purists who just can’t stomach running a disc wheel on a road bike.
    • Felt IA frame (1,065,000 Drops) – listed in fastest tt frames.

    Level 39

    • ENVE SES 7.8 wheels (205,900 Drops) – listed in fastest wheels – strong all-around performers on routes with shorter, rolling climbs.
    • Pinarello Dogma F10 frame (710,000 Drops)

    Level 40

    • Zwift Buffalo Fahrrad wheels (3,200 Drops)
    • Zwift Buffalo Fahrrad frame (9,500 Drops)

    Level 42

    • MUST BUY! DT Swiss ARC 1100 DICUT DISC wheels (1,579,800 Drops) – listed in fastest wheels. The fastest hoops in game – you might as well just pick ’em up. If you’re at level 42 you’ve probably got the Drops to do it!
    • MUST BUY! CADEX Tri frame (1,029,500 Drops) – listed in fastest tt frames, this is the current fastest TT frame.
    • Pinarello Bolide TT frame (1,065,000 Drops)

    Level 44

    • Zwift Safety wheels (710,000 Drops)
    • Zwift Safety frame (3,550,000 Drops)

    Level 45

    • ZIPP 858/Super9 wheels (1,508,800 Drops) – listed in fastest wheels.
    • Cervelo P5x frame (1,065,000 Drops) – listed in fastest tt frame.

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      Eric Schlange
      Eric Schlangehttp://www.zwiftinsider.com
      Eric runs Zwift Insider in his spare time when he isn't on the bike or managing various business interests. He lives in Northern California with his beautiful wife, two kids and dog. Follow on Strava

      193 COMMENTS

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      193 Comments
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      Will
      Will
      3 years ago

      Great work. Just what I’ve been waiting for. I think Zwift should implement load-outs so you can quickly switch to your desired set up depending on the course you’re riding.

      p.s. Small typo: “buy the smallest of margins” *by

      7
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Will

      Thanks, fixed! Sort of a funny play on words, though, you have to admit… 😉

      16
      Reply
      John Dunn
      John Dunn
      3 years ago

      As usual…great work Eric! These buyers guides are so helpful and make Zwift even more fun. Excuse me while i do some shopping.

      8
      Reply
      Daryl Verrion
      Daryl Verrion(@d-verrion)
      3 years ago

      Great article Eric, wish I’d known this 18 month’s ago! Lol! 👍🏼😂👍🏼

      1
      Reply
      Vid
      Vid
      3 years ago

      How is Specialized Venge S-Works frame not a MUST BUY?

      1
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Vid

      Because the margin over the S5 is so slim. 1 second over 50 minutes!

      5
      Reply
      Jakob Thusgaard
      Jakob Thusgaard(@thusgaard)
      1 year ago
      Reply to  Eric Schlange

      That’s changed now, though, right? The Venge is now an absolute must-buy!

      0
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      1 year ago
      Reply to  Jakob Thusgaard

      Nah. It’s only .5s faster than the Felt AR on the flats, and the same speed on the climbs. It’s the fastest bike, but just barely…

      0
      Reply
      KAM
      KAM(@angioman)
      3 years ago

      Eric, is it worth getting the 858/Super9 wheels if you already have the 808/Super9 set (other than the cool color disk😎)?

      1
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  KAM

      They’re 1-2 seconds faster over our 50 minute flat test. Your call!

      2
      Reply
      Danny
      Danny
      3 years ago

      AWESOME!!! Thanks!!! Really appreciate the guidance!!!

      0
      Reply
      Danny
      Danny
      3 years ago

      : – )

      1
      Reply
      Artem Chuk
      Artem Chuk
      3 years ago

      Thanks for this great guide! So much work put in. If only I knew that Allez Sprint was the best option just yesterday when I was looking for a bike for flats. I wouldn’t have bought Chapter2 Rere 🙁

      1
      Reply
      Darin Boyd
      Darin Boyd
      3 years ago

      I feel like maybe I possibly could have provided inspiration for this!! 😉

      3
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Darin Boyd

      You did!

      1
      Reply
      Shawn McAfee
      Member
      Shawn McAfee(@smcafee)
      3 years ago

      Just curious how the Venge S-Works is not considered a Must Buy as the fastest overall frame?

      This is an amazing guide though! Probably the most helpful thing since the speed chart.

      1
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Shawn McAfee

      Because the margin over the S5 is so slim. 1 second over 50 minutes!

      2
      Reply
      Alan P
      Alan P
      3 years ago

      This is a great article. Really really helpful. Just one question, I can’t spot which are the #1 fastest climbing wheels.

      0
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Alan P

      Those are the Lightweight Meilensteins, which one can unlock atop the Alpe. They’re not a level unlock.

      3
      Reply
      Alan P
      Alan P
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Eric Schlange

      Ah! yes. Thank you. That’s an incentive to get up the Alpe more often. I normally get mitts.

      6
      Reply
      Joao Silva
      Joao Silva
      2 years ago
      Reply to  Eric Schlange

      Hi, I can’t find that wheels and i already did the Alpe du Zwift. What am I missing?

      0
      Reply
      Chris \DIrt/
      Chris \DIrt/
      2 years ago
      Reply to  Joao Silva

      The lightweight wheels you can get at the top of Alpe but only if the prize spinner lands on them as a prize. People have summited many many times without getting them. Gloves are given by far the most commonly. That said, I’ve also talked to people who’ve gotten the wheels second time up.

      1
      Reply
      Isaac
      Isaac
      2 years ago
      Reply to  Chris \DIrt/

      I got lightweights 2nd try 🙂

      0
      Reply
      Lee
      Lee
      2 years ago
      Reply to  Isaac

      Same. Ridden it three times. Gloves first up. Then the wheels twice after that. Shame I can’t trade them in.

      1
      Reply
      Richard Price
      Richard Price
      1 year ago
      Reply to  Lee

      mitts and helmet so far!!

      0
      Reply
      James
      James(@jeastwood)
      3 years ago

      Great post, thanks Eric.

      0
      Reply
      James
      James(@jeastwood)
      3 years ago

      I also think it is worth noting that the speed benefit in a race or group ride (where a considerable amount of time will be spent drafting) is so small that people should really not feel put off going for the frame that they are most attracted too. Personally I cannot wait for the SystemSix, as it is fast enough and I ride one in real life.

      It would be great to see the realities of time saving in race conditions, where say 75% of the time is spent drafting.

      5
      Reply
      ralph kerr
      ralph kerr
      3 years ago

      Eric: You are the best bang for the buck on Zwift

      15
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  ralph kerr

      LOL. Thanks Ralph!

      2
      Reply
      Monica Schlange
      Monica Schlange(@mmisc)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  ralph kerr

      You’re not wrong, Ralph! But also, back off! He’s taken!

      27
      Reply
      Hammertime
      Hammertime
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Monica Schlange

      Sooo….. Thats what she said?

      -4
      Reply
      KB824
      KB824
      1 year ago
      Reply to  Hammertime

      no

      0
      Reply
      John Lloyd
      John Lloyd
      3 months ago
      Reply to  Monica Schlange

      How many drops is he worth and what would you sell him for 😂

      0
      Reply
      Jeffrey Pearson
      Jeffrey Pearson(@misterpearson)
      3 years ago

      Having got the Tron after a few months on Zwift, I find myself weighing the “must buy” choices. This is an EXCELLENT guide. Great effort.

      0
      Reply
      John
      John
      3 years ago

      I feel like unlocking the Tron bike has made the drop shop pretty much useless for me… I have the Tarmac Pro with ENVE SES 3.4’s for hard climbs, otherwise I just use the Tron bike since it is basically aster than everything else. What else would I need?

      4
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  John

      A good TT rig, perhaps. And a sweet mountain bike. And maybe a gravel bike? And when all else fails: the Zwift Safety bike, so you stand out in the crowd!

      7
      Reply
      B B
      B B(@benbliz)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Eric Schlange

      At some point it becomes about looking good :).

      2
      Reply
      Bob
      Bob
      4 months ago
      Reply to  B B

      Fashion is always the true end game….

      0
      Reply
      anderfo
      anderfo
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Eric Schlange

      I guess a gravel bike and an mtb could be added to this guide? Since some of them have level unlocks…

      1
      Reply
      anderfo
      anderfo
      3 years ago
      Reply to  anderfo

      Doh! I just realized they’re in the list anyway 🙂

      It’s just that none of them are listed in bold or as a “must buy” choice – and that they’re not really described or categorized as mtb or gravel bikes in this list…

      1
      Reply
      Keith
      Keith
      3 years ago

      Now we need to figure out how to have an IRL Drop Shop – earn credits by biking to buy IRL gear.

      4
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Keith

      It would be fun if Zwift gave us discounts, at least, for Drops…

      1
      Reply
      Stu
      Stu
      1 year ago
      Reply to  Keith

      There is, its called commuring to work by bike. Save about USD 1 per mile over driving, between gas prices, vehicle wear & tear and servicing. Granted a lot dependent a number of other factors to make it possible

      1
      Reply
      thewannabeironman
      Super Member
      thewannabeironman(@wanna_b_ironman)
      3 years ago

      Great stuff. I might print this one 🙂

      1
      Reply
      Anita
      Anita
      3 years ago

      Do you buy on Zwift or Zwift Companion?

      1
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Anita

      On Zwift, in game. Click Menu>Garage.

      0
      Reply
      Rodney Whitlock
      Rodney Whitlock
      3 years ago

      This is wonderful work and much appreciated. I could use some help understanding the differences between the rankings and the speed tests. According to the speed tests for wheels (link below), the Enve SES 3.4s rate as better wheels than the Roval CLX64s. Again, looking at the speed tests, the Zipp 808s are smoking on flats but I don’t understand how they are #1 until Level 31 given the comparison to other climbing wheels.

      Appreciate any help so this Zwifter can better understand.

      https://zwiftinsider.com/charts-wheels/

      0
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Rodney Whitlock

      We rank wheels by their speed on flat/rolling roads, and up the Alpe. Two very different rankings.

      The 808s are #1 for flat stuff–they’re #1 on the fastest wheels list, not the fastest climbing list. The ENVE 3.4s are near the top of the list for climbing. But the 808s don’t climb well, and the 3.4s aren’t great on the flats.

      Just like outdoors. Make sense?

      1
      Reply
      Rodney Whitlock
      Rodney Whitlock
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Eric Schlange

      Totally understand. But if I am on Royal Pump Room 8 or Everything Bagel or Figure 8, do I want to be riding 808s or ENVEs?

      0
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Rodney Whitlock

      It’s tough on those types of routes, because a solo speed test will give the edge to the most aero wheel. But if you’re like many Zwifters, you can do OK sitting in a pack on flats and descents – it’s on the climbs where you may get dropped. So it probably makes sense to go with a climbing-oriented setup in those cases, since you will still be able to hang with the pack, but may gain a little time on the climbs.

      It’s not a clear-cut answer though.

      0
      Reply
      Rodney Whitlock
      Rodney Whitlock
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Eric Schlange

      So I am going to demonstrate a complete ignorance of how hard what you do is. Is it possible to replicate the tests you have done on a representative, mixed climb-flat course like the ones I mentioned? Happy to write the National Institutes of Science research grant proposal if that helps.

      2
      Reply
      Kevin
      Kevin
      3 years ago

      Great post!

      1
      Reply
      Shawn Fink
      Shawn Fink
      3 years ago

      Perfect!

      1
      Reply
      Fabian
      Fabian
      3 years ago

      Thanks for the great guide! It’s so helpful for a newbie like me. Is there an overview of wich routes can be categorized as flat ones and wich one are „climbing routes“?

      1
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Fabian

      There is not… not yet, at least.

      1
      Reply
      Paul
      Paul
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Eric Schlange

      I took Eric’s master list of routes and details, moved it into excel, and divided the distance by the climb to get a variable for how hilly or flat a route was and have been using that.

      0
      Reply
      Paul
      Paul
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Paul

      Edit: divided climb by the distance

      0
      Reply
      anderfo
      anderfo
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Fabian

      You could look at ZwiftHub.com where all routes are listed with Distance (& lead-in distance), Elevation (& lead-in elevation) and average gradient (which would tell you a lot about whether they are flat or climbing) as well as the elevation profile.

      You may also filter the view, e.g. only show routes within a certain distance interval or elevation interval, or only those available in today’s worlds.

      0
      Reply
      Aoi Niigaki
      Aoi Niigaki
      3 years ago

      Closing in on level 40 and that sweet Buffalo bike.

      2
      Reply
      Ted Meisky
      Ted Meisky
      3 years ago

      I know where the Lightweight Meilenstein wheels you have to earn rank but where do you rank the Trek Emonda from the Everest Challenge compared to the frames you can “buy”?

      1
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Ted Meisky

      #3! See https://zwiftinsider.com/fastest-bike-frames-for-climbing/

      2
      Reply
      Triskel
      Triskel
      3 years ago

      I found a little mistake. The Zwift 50 mm carbon wheels unlock on level 7 (not 13) and cost 120,700 drops (not 468,300)

      Great job, Eric 😉

      0
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Triskel

      Weird–they must have updated the 32mm and 50mm carbon wheels at some point, and I missed it. Fixed!

      0
      Reply
      Ed
      Ed
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Triskel

      Hi! I am level 7 and I have lots of drops but when I look in the garage there are no options to buy anything. Any ideas?

      0
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Ed

      Gotta look in the Drop shop, Ed. Your garage is where your purchased stuff is stored. Drop Shop is where you shop.

      1
      Reply
      Ed Johnson
      Ed Johnson
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Eric Schlange

      Thanks!

      0
      Reply
      Ed Johnson
      Ed Johnson
      3 years ago

      Hi. I am level 7 and have lots of drops but when I look in the garage I can’t buy either frames or wheels of any kind. What is going wrong?

      0
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Ed Johnson

      Gotta look in the Drop shop, Ed. Your garage is where your purchased stuff is stored. Drop Shop is where you shop.

      1
      Reply
      Mike Kauspedas
      Trusted Member
      Mike Kauspedas(@mike)
      3 years ago

      So if u have tron and if you’re not climbing, u can basically ignore all this until level 35?

      0
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Mike Kauspedas

      Yeah, if you’re purely concerned with speed.

      0
      Reply
      Bennettronicycle
      Bennettronicycle
      3 years ago

      This is great and matches up perfectly with a spreadsheet I built using your previously published speed data for frames and wheels. Thanks for sharing!

      1
      Reply
      Reagan Isaac (Manitou MTB)
      Reagan Isaac (Manitou MTB)(@isaackids5)
      3 years ago

      Thanks for all the great work Eric! I love this post and it has been super useful so far. Also, I have a question: How long approximately did it take you to earn the TRON bike? I started Zwift in mid-December and am now 60% done with the challenge, but now it seems to be taking forever 😂maybe this is down to wimping out and doing Fuego Flats instead of the Alpe?

      1
      Reply
      JcAFC
      JcAFC
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Reagan Isaac (Manitou MTB)

      I’ve got some bad news my friend 🙁 … If you started in Dec and have been doing a lot of Fuego Flats, you are almost certainly not 60% done. The Tron bike doesn’t unlock at the top of Everest. You have to keep climbing after you reach the summit. You keep climbing all the way into outer space. (Lol not kidding tho)

      2
      Reply
      Maxime
      Maxime
      3 years ago

      Should I buy something at level 8 with 305 drops or save drops

      0
      Reply
      Michael Davis
      Michael Davis
      3 years ago

      Any change they would consider implementing a trade-up option? Perhaps offer to discount the higher level bikes and wheels 20% or so on a trade-in. It would allow us to get rid of equipment in our garage we no longer use because of the better equipment available in the higher levels.

      2
      Reply
      Mark Oates
      Mark Oates
      3 years ago

      Hi all. Newbie to Zwift and just came across this excellent article.

      My question is this – why make gear available at certain levels if you have nowhere near enough drops to purchase. For example, the ENVE SE 3.4 wheels @ 191,700 drops available at Level 4 but I only had 80,000 odd drops.

      I’m now at Level 6 and have 105,000 drops so same issue with the Zwift aero frame (@ 319,500).

      How do I accumulate those sort of drops?

      Thanks,

      Mark

      0
      Reply
      Ian Tuck
      Member
      Ian Tuck(@ituck)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Mark Oates

      You get drops as a function of the work you’re putting in – the harder you’re working, the faster the drops accumulate. Drop accumulation has two “bonus multipliers”. One is that you get more drops climbing on 3% grades or higher, so if you want to accumulate more drops/km, make them climbing kilometres. The other multiplier is that you accumulate drops faster for 15 seconds after someone gives you a “ride on!”, so get in the habit of giving them out, and perhaps people will return them to the benefit of your drop collection rate!

      1
      Reply
      Reagan Isaac (Manitou MTB)
      Reagan Isaac (Manitou MTB)(@isaackids5)
      3 years ago

      Whats the speed difference between the Trek Madone and the Scott Foil? I noticed that it didn’t make the “Fastest Frames for Zwifters Level 30 and Below”, and was wondering how much slower it was.

      0
      Reply
      Michael
      Michael
      3 years ago

      Specilaized tarmac pro, it is good uphill, but i lost contact with many groups going downhill. Have you tested it downhill?

      0
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Michael

      Downhill performance is the same as flat performance, basically. You can see how it stacks up here: https://zwiftinsider.com/charts-frames/

      0
      Reply
      Travis
      Travis
      3 years ago

      On level 9….I have the ENVE3.4s so next purchase needs to be a frame. Looking at the above I should grab the Cannondale EVO when I have enough drops. Or should I wait until I have enough to buy the Zwift Aero frame?

      0
      Reply
      Travis
      Travis
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Travis

      Ok I think rather I’ll buy the EVO as soon as I can afford it and then the Specialized Allez Sprint at level 14

      1
      Reply
      Cr.Rand
      Cr.Rand
      3 years ago

      Referenced this post many times already and will continue doing so. Thanks and big UPs Eric for sharing this guide!

      0
      Reply
      Benjapol Piyawanichpong
      Benjapol Piyawanichpong
      3 years ago

      I watched this youtube for a test showing that safety bike frame with lightweight wheel is the fastest, faster than tarmac pro with lightweight wheel (level 11). Well if you can be at level 44, should have enough drops to afford it..

      Last edited 2 years ago by Eric Schlange
      0
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Benjapol Piyawanichpong

      That’s an old video, before the Safety Bike was updated. It’s not the fastest.

      0
      Reply
      Ben F.
      Ben F.
      3 years ago

      Great list, but the Parlee RZ7 and the other new frame isn’t there yet.
      Pls update.

      0
      Reply
      Maarten Borsten
      Maarten Borsten
      3 years ago

      I am not sure I understand. The must buy for lvl 11 is Specialized Tarmac Pro frame. But at completing California you get the Specialized Tarmac right? According to https://zwiftinsider.com/charts-frames/ the Tarmac is beter than the Pro. So why should I buy this if the Tarmac is for free after completing California?

      0
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Maarten Borsten

      Two different Tarmacs. One is great (Tarmac Pro). The other is nothing special, in terms of performance!

      3
      Reply
      Jonathan
      Jonathan
      3 years ago

      Hi. Fairly new to all of this and currently at level 10. Really appreciate all the information you put out there. Hope you can clear up a bit of confusion – was the factor one frame in this post different from the one in the latest release? Trying to figure out what I should use my first drop purchase on. Thanks!

      0
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Jonathan

      Factor One in this post is the one released in yesterday’s update.

      0
      Reply
      Jonathan
      Jonathan
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Eric Schlange

      Thanks so much. Was confused by the initial date.

      0
      Reply
      Millard Fillmore
      Millard Fillmore
      3 years ago

      Hi, Eric. I think you may have a typo in the list. You still have the Cervelo S3D listed as “#2 fastest beginner frame”, when I think it’s been knocked down to #4 by the Factor One and Ridley Noah Fast 2019 frames. Assuming I’m reading the the rankings correctly, that is. Thanks for assembling these lists!

      0
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Millard Fillmore

      Good catch! Fixed.

      1
      Reply
      Carolyn Audilet
      Carolyn Audilet(@caudilet)
      3 years ago

      Thanks for the info! I see bikes and wheelsets affect my speed. How does the rest of the gear in my garage work? For example, does my loose hair style cause drag? Does a helmet help (which is aero) or hinder (extra weight) in a climb? Do I want tall socks? There are so many variables.

      0
      Reply
      Eric Schlange
      Author
      Top Member
      Eric Schlange(@eschlange)
      3 years ago
      Reply to  Carolyn Audilet

      Only frames and wheels matter at this time.

      2
      Reply
      Gary Hudson
      Gary Hudson
      2 years ago

      I keep coming back to this article. Very useful! I also like it when you give suggestions for the type of bike and wheels that are best for specific routes. Thanks.

      1
      Reply
      Pablo Munizaga
      Pablo Munizaga
      2 years ago

      I entered a TT race and bought a TT frame through the drop shop. My question is, if I want to go back to my original frame after the event, do I need to purchase it again? , or can I just get it back without spending my drops?

      0
      Reply
      Dan Connelly
      Dan Connelly
      2 years ago
      Reply to  Pablo Munizaga

      No — you go into your garage and re-select the other frame. When you buy stuff you have it forever, for better or worse.

      0
      Reply
      Max
      Max
      2 years ago

      So from what i can gather. The best upgrade route might look like.
       
      Upgrade Path Reason Level Drops
      Enve SES 3.4 #1 Climbing Wheels 4 191,700
      Specialised Tarmac Pro #1 Climbing Frame 11 408,300
      Zipp 808 Wheels Fastest wheels below lvl 30 13 177,700
      Specialized Allez Sprint #1 fastest beginner frame 14 127,800
      Zipp 454 wheels Best Mixed Terrain Wheels 24 284,000
      Cervelo S5 frame #2 fastest frame >30 25 603,500
      ENVE SES 8.9 Fastest til lvl 35 31 205,900
      Specialized Venge S #1 fastest frame 33 798,800
       
      Does that seem right?

      0
      Reply
      Dan Connelly
      Dan Connelly
      2 years ago
      Reply to  Max

      I put the Cervelo P5 time trial frame in my purchase path. For solo training, it’s my preference: (1) I can cover more distance, (2) I get XP instead of powerups I don’t want anyway on solo training, (3) for time trials. The Tarmac Pro is only marginally better (5 seconds up L’Alpe) than the Cannondale Evo, which is much cheaper, freeing up funds for the time trial bike, if needed. The Allez Sprint is cheap but I didn’t consider it worth it, since it makes sense only for races with essentially no climbing, so for crits maybe but not… Read more »

      0
      Reply
      Ashlee Moses
      Ashlee Moses
      2 years ago

      Eric you are my Zwift guru. Thank you for all the useful and accurate information.

      0
      Reply
      Tom
      Tom
      2 years ago

      Hi why buy at level25 the cervelo s5 if you already have the Specialized Allez sprint #1 fastest please?

      0
      Reply
      Sylvan Smyth
      Sylvan Smyth(@sylvan)
      2 years ago
      Reply to  Tom

      Cervelo s5 is faster than the Spec Allez Sprint. Allez Sprint is the fastest “beginner” frame, not the fastest overall.

      0
      Reply
      Leon Arnulphy
      Leon Arnulphy
      2 years ago

      Keep up the good work 👍🚵‍♂️

      0
      Reply
      alastair
      alastair
      2 years ago

      Really enjoy reading all the stuff you publish thanks and makes the whole Zwift experience a little more fun

      0
      Reply
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