Yes, direct drive trainer are expensive but the experience combined with Zwift make it worth it. I leave a dedicated bike on the trainer and sometimes will even ride it vs going outside in good weather. I have no hills where I am but there are plenty on Zwift. Racing in Zwift is a lot of fun too. Just about any time you want to ride, day or night, you can find a group ride or race that meets your needs. So far no recumbents (on screen) in Zwift but who knows, maybe a future update.