Originally Posted by
genejockey
Isn't the other problem that the resistance is controlled manually? That is, you have to turn the knob yourself, it doesn't adjust automatically like a Smart trainer. I think that relegates it to "workout machine" vs "virtual cycling tool" - it's excluded from all the virtual cycling apps, and the nature of having to change the resistance manually makes it unlike cycling IRL, where you encounter sudden sharp climbs, rollers, long climbs with varying pitches, etc.
Yes, the device isn't "smart" and that's another drawback. But if you're using Zwift and a smart trainer, and Zwift goes away, you have lots of other choices. With Peleton, well, if they go under you're left with a big heavy doorstop.