With lots of riders trying to get into indoor cycling, lots are going to want to get the cheapest set up they can. I went out to find the cheapest set up, and here is what I found. Note: these prices can definitely be beat by buying used, but this is given the buyer would like to purchase new items. Prices will also vary depending on the sales being offered. This is also granted that the rider already owns a compatible road bike. All currencies used in this article are in USD($)
The Trainer
In this section, I will be highlighting a few different options. An option that only requires a speed sensor, and an option that will offer power data, allowing for a more accurate ride.
Currently, the cheapest wheel-on smart trainer is the Wahoo Kickr Snap or Tacx Flow. Both can currently be found for $299 (this is with current deals). This means that the trainer will be able to read power and adjust resistance based on the terrain in Zwift.
In terms of direct drive smart trainers, the Zwift Hub One and Wahoo Kickr Core are two extremely valuable trainers. The Zwift Hub offers some extremely high-end features for a price of $599.
Another solid option is the Elite Suito-T. This trainer can often be found on sale for ~$350, which is not a lot more than a wheel-on smart trainer.
Note: direct drive trainers require a cassette in order to function. Wheel-on trainers do not. However, many direct drive trainers include an 11-speed cassette with the purchase.
Device
Apple TV is definitely the cheapest and simplest option for those who are looking for a completely separate Zwifting device. Based off of my research, a 4K TV can be found for ~$200. The Apple TV 4K 2nd Generation(one version prior to the current), can be found for ~$100 or less. Bringing the total cost of the device to $300. Expect this price to vary as sales come and go. Note: the Apple TV 4K does not require a 4K tv to function, an HD TV will work just fine, but won’t take advantage of the full visual benefits of the ATV 4K.
Zwift Subscription
A Zwift account is free to create and comes with a 14-day trial. However, a monthly subscription costs $14.99/month. For riders under the age of 16, Zwift is completely free. Parents can read all about kids accounts here: https://zracecentral.com/all-about-zwift-kids-accounts/
The Totals
After all of the costs, here is what riders should expect to pay.
Direct Drive(smart) —> $500(trainer) + $300(device) + $14.99(Zwift subscription – one month) = $814.99
Wheel-on(smart) —> $299(trainer) + $300(device) + $14.99(Zwift subscription – one month) = $613.99
Summary
In conclusion, Zwift is not cheap. However, many Zwifters do not actually have to pay the amounts listed above. This is because most Zwifters already have a device(iPhone, Android, iPad, ATV, PC, Mac, etc) that they can use for Zwift, splitting the cost in half. In addition to this, deals on used trainers can often be found on sources such as ebay, allowing riders to find better equipment for less.