Riding in Free (SIM) Mode in Zwift
- Tina Hart
- Jan 6
- 4 min read
During Cycle 1 of BaseCamp, we focused our workouts in ERG mode and incline mode when using Zwift. These modes allow us to load a workout and follow a step-by-step process on screen. In ERG mode, the power is controlled for us, and in incline mode, we make power but against a steady resistance. These modes allow us to dial in our effort and learn the feelings of targeted training zones, but they don't exactly simulate real road riding. How can we better do that inside? Enter 'free mode' (also called "SIM mode" as in 'simulation' mode). Free mode forces us to use gears and specific power modulations to hit targets on a fluctuating terrain.