20to11
Regular
- Location
- Stafford, United Kingdom
Not at all. It's worth mentioning I already had a big TV + Apple TV device in my front room to run Zwift on. I also had a fan. Definitely factor in a fan. I can't believe how sweaty it can get without a regular flow of air, even with my heating turned off.
My trainer is a Kickr Core. I got it brand new with a free cassette from Cycle Works Pembrokeshire's website. This was £697.00
I also bought a cheap, second-hand road bike to use exclusively with the trainer (or for popping to the shops). That was a Merida Ride Lite 90 for £280.00. I added about £50's worth of additions to adjust the fit more to my liking, and for a phone holder to run the Zwift companion app on my phone while I'm riding. It's worth noting that there are a lot of used smart-trainers out there, so if you wanted to save some money and use an existing bike, you could probably be up and running for under £400.00
Also factor in the £12.99 per month Zwift subscription, and that was about it.
I didn't bother with a fancy mat or table that some people use. I just use towels and an existing box to hold any water/controllers etc..
I wasn't sure I wanted to spend this much at the outset, but having tried a friend's 'dumb' on-tyre trainer, I'm so glad I went for the smart trainer route. Having a quiet setup that provides cadence, speed, and power metrics is just fantastic, and really makes the Zwift rides more purposeful.
Hope that helps.