Zwift acquires ROUVY

Zwift has acquired competitor ROUVY. The two platforms will continue to operate independently, but the goal is to jointly further develop the indoor cycling market.
ROUVY was one of the few major names still operating independently in the world of indoor cycling. The Czech platform allows cyclists to virtually ride real-world routes. The platform will now become part of Zwift. This was announced by the two companies on Wednesday.

Eric Min, co-founder and CEO of Zwift, calls it a "big moment" for both parties. "We have enormous respect for what ROUVY has achieved," he says. "They have built a fantastic product and proven that there is a strong market for experiences based on real video footage."

The acquisition is remarkable because Zwift and ROUVY essentially offer different products. While Zwift lets users ride through the virtual island of Watopia, ROUVY translates real outdoor courses to the screen of the home cyclist. That distinction will remain. Both platforms will keep their own subscription structures.

Notable trend
Min points out a notable trend in the market. The past year saw indoor cycling grow faster than any year since COVID, he says. And new users are increasingly coming from outside the traditional cycling sport. "We see more people cycling for the first time through indoor training," says Min.

"They are looking for an activity that fits their active lifestyle and their long-term health focus." This influx of new cyclists is partly driven by more affordable smart trainers, Min explains. "Zwift Ready" trainers, compatible with nearly any bike, make the step to indoor cycling much more accessible."

Specifically, the deal means that Zwift Ready smart trainers and Zwift Ride smart frames will now also work with the ROUVY application. New users can more easily get started on the platform of their choice. Further integrations have been announced for the coming months.

Petr Samek, CEO and founder of ROUVY, emphasizes that his community has nothing to fear. "ROUVY remains the ROUVY you know and appreciate, with the same team and the same focus on helping riders achieve their goals." The Czech founder is visibly proud of the recognition the deal brings. "This is strong confirmation of what we have built with our team and community."