Quick Answer: Yes, you can use Zwift on your Peloton — both the original Bike and the Bike+. The key thing to understand is that Zwift needs to receive your power and cadence data from the Peloton to function properly, so simply sideloading the Zwift app won't work on its own. You need a solution like FitSwitch that bridges your Peloton's sensor data to Zwift. On the Bike+, FitSwitch also enables full ERG mode and SIM mode with automatic resistance control.
Table of Contents
- Why Sideloading Alone Isn't Enough
- Zwift on Original Bike vs Bike+
- Setting Up Zwift with FitSwitch
- SmartSpin2K: A DIY Alternative for the Original Bike
- 8GB Storage Limitation on Some Bike+ Models
- Working Without ERG Mode (Original Bike)
- FAQ
Why Sideloading Alone Isn't Enough
You might think you can just sideload the Zwift APK onto your Peloton and start riding. But here's the problem: Peloton doesn't broadcast power or cadence data over standard Bluetooth or ANT+ protocols. The sensor data stays locked inside the Peloton ecosystem.
Without a bridge solution, Zwift has no idea you're pedaling. You'd essentially be running Zwift on a nice screen with no bike data — no power, no cadence, no meaningful workout. You need something that reads the Peloton's internal sensor data and translates it into standard fitness protocols (like Bluetooth FTMS or ANT+) that Zwift understands.
That's exactly what FitSwitch does.
Zwift on Original Bike vs Bike+
Both Peloton models work with Zwift through FitSwitch, but the experience differs:
| Feature | Original Bike | Bike+ |
|---|---|---|
| Resistance Control | Manual knob | Motorized (auto) |
| ERG Mode | Not possible (manual resistance) | Full ERG via FitSwitch |
| SIM Mode | No auto-gradient | Yes — 24 virtual gears, terrain simulation |
| Power Broadcast | Yes, via FitSwitch | Yes, via FitSwitch |
| Cadence Broadcast | Yes, via FitSwitch | Yes, via FitSwitch |
| Zwift Workouts | Manual adjustment | Automatic resistance |
Original Bike: FitSwitch broadcasts your power and cadence to Zwift. You get accurate data and full Zwift functionality — you just adjust resistance yourself with the manual knob.
Bike+: FitSwitch turns your Bike+ into a full smart trainer. ERG mode automatically adjusts resistance for structured workouts, and SIM mode with 24 virtual gears simulates terrain in real time. See our detailed Bike+ Zwift guide for the full breakdown.
Setting Up Zwift with FitSwitch
What You Need
- FitSwitch device — Plugs into your Peloton's USB-C port
- FitSwitch Bridge app — Free companion app for iPhone or Mac
- iOS 15.1+ or macOS 12.0+ (Apple M1 or later)
- Download from the App Store
Step 1: Install FitSwitch on Your Peloton
- Connect FitSwitch to your Bike's USB-C port
- Follow the installation instructions
- Install Zwift from the FitSwitch app store
Step 2: Set Up FitSwitch Bridge
- Download FitSwitch Bridge on your iPhone or Mac
- Open the app — it discovers your FitSwitch-equipped Peloton
- Keep the app running during Zwift sessions
Step 3: Pair in Zwift
- Open Zwift on your Peloton
- On the pairing screen, select your Peloton via the Bridge app for:
- Power Source — Your accurate power data
- Cadence — Your RPM
- Heart Rate — If using a connected monitor
- Controllable Trainer — Bike+ only, for ERG and SIM mode
- Start riding!
What FitSwitch Gives You
On Both Bike Models: - Accurate power data — Real watts, not estimated "zPower" - Cadence data — Actual RPM - Heart rate rebroadcast from your connected monitor - Metrics overlay — See Peloton data on top of Zwift - Smartwatch connectivity — Apple Watch, Garmin, ANT+ devices - One-tap app installation — No ADB required - Update resilience — Apps survive Peloton updates
Bike+ Extras: - Full ERG mode — Automatic resistance for structured workouts - SIM mode with 24 virtual gears — Terrain simulation in real time - Constant power mode in the native Peloton app
SmartSpin2K: A DIY Alternative for the Original Bike
If you have the original Peloton Bike and want a DIY approach, SmartSpin2K is an open-source hardware project worth considering. SmartSpin2K uses an ESP32 microcontroller and a stepper motor that attaches to your bike's resistance knob.
What SmartSpin2K Does
- Broadcasts power and cadence via Bluetooth FTMS to Zwift, Rouvy, TrainerRoad, and other apps
- Controls resistance automatically — The stepper motor turns your manual resistance knob, enabling ERG mode and SIM mode on the original Bike
- Open-source — The hardware designs and firmware are freely available on GitHub
SmartSpin2K vs FitSwitch
| Feature | SmartSpin2K | FitSwitch |
|---|---|---|
| Bike Compatibility | Original Bike | Both Bike and Bike+ |
| Setup | DIY build or purchase kit | Plug-and-play |
| App Installation | Separate (ADB sideloading) | Built-in app store |
| Resistance Control | Stepper motor on knob | Native motor (Bike+) |
| Metrics Overlay | No | Yes |
| Survives Updates | N/A (external device) | Yes |
SmartSpin2K is a great option for tinkerers who enjoy DIY projects. FitSwitch is the simpler plug-and-play solution that also handles app installation and works with both Peloton models.
8GB Storage Limitation on Some Bike+ Models
Important: Some Peloton Bike+ models ship with only 8GB of internal storage instead of 16GB. Zwift is a very large app — a fresh install requires roughly 5GB of space, and it grows with updates. On an 8GB Bike+, there simply isn't enough room to install and run Zwift after the operating system and Peloton software take their share.
How to Check Your Storage
Go to Device Settings > About Tablet > Storage on your Peloton to see your total available storage.
If You Have an 8GB Model
You can still use Zwift with your Peloton — just run Zwift on a separate device instead:
- Phone or tablet — Run Zwift on your iPhone, iPad, or Android device
- TV — Use Apple TV or another Zwift-compatible device
- Computer — Run Zwift on your Mac or PC
FitSwitch broadcasts your Peloton's power and cadence data via Bluetooth (FTMS) and ANT+ signals through the FitSwitch Bridge app. Any Zwift-compatible device nearby can pick up these signals and pair with your Peloton as a power source and cadence sensor.
This way, you still get accurate Peloton power data in Zwift — it just runs on a different screen instead of directly on the Bike+. On the Bike+, you also keep full ERG mode and SIM mode since FitSwitch still controls the motorized resistance.
Working Without ERG Mode (Original Bike)
Free Riding in Watopia
For casual riding through Zwift's worlds, the lack of ERG mode is less noticeable: - Pick a resistance level that feels comfortable - Adjust when you hit hills if you want to simulate gradient - Your power fluctuates naturally, just like outdoor riding
Many riders prefer this — it's more like real cycling where power varies with terrain and effort.
Zwift Workouts (Manual Mode)
Zwift workouts display target power ranges. Without ERG:
- Workout shows: "Next interval: 200W for 3 minutes"
- You adjust resistance to hit ~200W
- Watch the power number and fine-tune
- Move to next interval, adjust again
Tips for manual workouts: - Learn what resistance levels produce what power at your typical cadence - Note your settings (e.g., "Level 45 at 90 RPM = 200W") - Anticipate intervals and adjust early - Focus on cadence consistency
Racing in Zwift
For Zwift races, no ERG mode isn't a disadvantage — races don't use ERG anyway: - You control your effort - Power varies based on race dynamics - Adjust resistance to hit your desired output - Draft, attack, recover as you would outdoors
Your accurate power data means your race results are legitimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Zwift work on both Peloton Bike and Bike+?
Yes. FitSwitch enables Zwift on both models. The Bike+ offers additional features like ERG mode and SIM mode with 24 virtual gears thanks to its motorized resistance knob.
Why can't I just sideload Zwift?
Sideloading gets Zwift onto the screen, but Peloton doesn't broadcast power or cadence data over standard Bluetooth or ANT+ protocols. Without a bridge like FitSwitch, Zwift has no bike data to work with.
Is the power data accurate?
Yes. FitSwitch reads directly from Peloton's built-in power meter. Your watts are real, not estimated "zPower."
Can I do FTP tests?
Yes. On Bike+, ERG mode handles everything automatically. On the original Bike, manually increase resistance each step for ramp tests, or set your target resistance and hold it for 20-minute tests.
What if my Bike+ only has 8GB of storage?
Zwift is too large to install on 8GB Bike+ models. Instead, run Zwift on a separate device (phone, tablet, TV, or computer) and pair it with your Peloton's power and cadence data via FitSwitch's Bluetooth FTMS and ANT+ broadcast.
Can I upgrade from original Bike to Bike+ later?
Yes. FitSwitch works with both models. If you upgrade to Bike+, you'll gain ERG mode and SIM mode with the same FitSwitch device.
Will Zwift races work?
Yes. Races don't use ERG mode — you control your effort manually on any bike. Your accurate power data means your race results are legitimate.
Can I feel the hills in Zwift?
On the Bike+, yes — FitSwitch enables SIM mode with 24 virtual gears that simulate terrain automatically. On the original Bike, you can manually increase resistance when you see a climb, but it won't adjust itself.
Can I track workouts on my Apple Watch or Garmin?
Yes. FitSwitch broadcasts your power, cadence, and heart rate via ANT+ and Bluetooth to your Apple Watch, Garmin, or other fitness devices.
Do I still need the FitSwitch Bridge app?
Yes. The Bridge app handles communication between your Peloton and Zwift on both Bike models.
What about SmartSpin2K?
SmartSpin2K is a DIY open-source alternative for the original Peloton Bike. It uses a stepper motor to control your resistance knob and broadcasts data via Bluetooth FTMS. It's a good option if you enjoy building hardware projects, but it doesn't handle app installation and requires separate sideloading.
Get Zwift Running on Your Peloton
Whether you have the original Bike or Bike+, FitSwitch bridges the gap between your Peloton and Zwift:
- Real power and cadence broadcast to Zwift
- One-tap Zwift installation — No ADB or computer needed
- ERG mode and SIM mode on Bike+ for the full smart trainer experience
- Metrics overlay — See Peloton data on top of Zwift
- Smartwatch tracking — Apple Watch, Garmin, ANT+ devices
- Bluetooth FTMS and ANT+ broadcast — Connect any device, even if Zwift can't fit on your Peloton
Get FitSwitch — Zwift with real power data on your Peloton.
Last updated: March 2026