Zwift‘s course designers have been hard at work and are bringing a new type of course to the Zwift world of virtual cycling. The new Crit City course will be the 8th course on the map and is their first event only course. Modeled after criterium style courses, this new map is sure to add a new level of excitement and racing to Zwift.
The purpose build course is 1.9km long and just 26ft of elevation gain. Think Wilmington Grand Prix as far as length, but about half the climbing. It is specifically designed for criterium racing, which is usually a fast, flat out course, with plenty of turns to keep things interesting. The Crit City course weaves its way through a downtown city environment, with cobbles and roundabouts. There are also times the course runs parallel to itself, allowing you to keep an eye on others, as you would in a real race.
To keep things visually appealing for riders, the Zwift course designers added some creative touches, like a colorful graffiti mural inspired by Watopia on a building along the course. You’ll have to race the course to find the others. Additionally, for those watching the races, there are some hidden Easter eggs to look for, like the Bib-Z building.
“As someone who grew up racing crits as a junior, I’m really excited to test my legs in Crit City,” explains Eric Min, Zwift CEO and Co-Founder. “Criterium racing really is an artform, and I’m sure that racing this course will be no different. Knowing how to conserve energy and when to make your move is critical when racing for the win. I know that this is something that our racing community will love.”
Crit City will become available later this week for different events. Check the Zwift Event Calendar of the Zwift Companion App to find events using the new course. Crit City will be included int he event title.
Based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Scott joined Bike World News as the Cyclocross Editor in 2012 before taking over as Tech Editor in 2016. He has also worked as a photographer for various pro teams and shoot races along the east coast of the US, including the 2012 US MTB National Championships, 2013 UCI Cyclocross World Championships, and 2016 UCI Road World Championships. Scott has a passion for performance and technology, with 35 years of riding and mechanic experience. He also enjoys soccer, running, teaching group fitness classes, and is the founder of Lancaster Beard Company.
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