This article is sponsored by Rouvy - the most realistic indoor cycling app.

Winter has settled in, and with the promise of the new year comes the need for motivation. How can one muster excitement to ride when faced with grey skies and the looming challenge of conquering Alpe d'Huez in the summer? The answer to my resolution quandary? Rouvy.

Rouvy Is Real

Sure, the idea of sitting on a turbo trainer indoors might not sound appealing at first, but with Rouvy, it's a different ball game. It's not just a workout; it's addictive, akin to playing a video game. The twist? You're navigating through real routes, all while getting fit and primed for your summer cycling goals.

While some routes are basic maps, the real gems are those tagged with 'AR' or "augmented reality" in the description. These stand out for their realistic experiences, bringing the roads to life. No cartoonish pathways here; Rouvy focuses on augmented reality, combining the real route with avatars and branding for the most authentic experience. The only thing missing is the honking cars telling you to get off the road!

Cycling the World's Famous Routes

Rouvy zeroes in on the most iconic cycling locations. I remember my trip to ride the Stelvio Pass in Italy. Years ago, I took a train from Milan to Sondrio, got to Bormio, and rode the famous Stelvio Pass. I had no idea what I was getting into. With Rouvy, now going back and riding the route, I can see that it would be an excellent way to prepare myself for the challenge or a similar challenge in the future. Same thing with riding the Col de la Bonette or Alpe d'Huez, the reality is stunning.

As someone who's navigated the Alpe d'Huez switchbacks during the Tour de France, but by car and by bike a couple of times, the virtual experience mirrors reality. Every curve, every scenic view over the valley – it's all there, but now, I'm on my bike!

Time Flies When Riding Rouvy

On Rouvy, an hour doesn't feel like an hour. Previously, a single hour felt like an eternity. Now, time simply flies. Now, I can ride these incredible routes with constant sunshine instead of repeating the same loops at home, all while enjoying a picturesque view.

Now you're setting up virtual rides. I spoke with friends who are doing Thursday Weekly rides on specific Rouvy routes. The social aspect adds a new dimension, allowing cyclists miles apart to ride together and chat on the side. 

The social elements on Rouvy add depth to the experience. You can see your partners on the route, check the panel on the left for the route overview, and glance at the bottom where the distance is displayed to see if they've stopped for a coffee. It's like riding together, even when physically distant.

Riding Like A Pro

Rouvy brings the Vuelta a España to your doorstep. While it might not be everyone's cup of tea, the option to ride it, to emulate the pros like Sepp Kuss, is there. It also features routes from the Tour Down Under. Even if you look for routes in France, you can see many of the Tour de France stages even if they are not marked that way.

Easy Breezy Rouvy

The revamped app is more user-friendly, with dedicated dashboards for events, group rides, and routes. Rouvy offers personal recommendations based on your preferences. If you love climbs, it'll suggest similar routes, enhancing your overall experience.

The key message is clear: Rouvy provides real routes effortlessly, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection. Cyclists prepare for summer challenges and races by riding routes they aspire to conquer, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor cycling.

Rouvy's integration with Strava and Training Peaks is seamless. Each ride automatically uploads to Strava, providing a snapshot of your cycling journey. The real routes, complete with GPS coordinates, allow you to pinpoint the exact locations. And if you want, you are ready to go there in real life the next time.

Flexible Pricing Plans

I opted for the 14-day free trial, and the plans are enticing. Monthly and yearly options are available, along with packages for two riders or more – forming your own cycling team, regardless of household proximity.

Rouvy isn't just an indoor training app; think of it as a gateway to a dynamic, social, and realistically immersive cycling experience. I'd give it a try whether you're gearing up for a virtual group ride or tackling a famous climb.

FloBikes readers can use promo code RIDE2024 for an extra one-month free trial when you sign up today at Rouvy.com