Zwift uses a category system to group riders of similar abilities for races and events. You might see official metrics defining these categories, but the real-world Zwift experience, especially within category D, often feels different. So, What Does it really take to ride in Zwift category D and beyond? Let’s break down the reality of Zwift categories based on practical experience.
Official Metrics vs. Zwift Reality: Category D and Beyond
Official Zwift category metrics provide a starting point, often based on FTP (Functional Threshold Power). However, many Zwifters find that these numbers don’t fully reflect the demands of actual races, particularly in the lower categories. When starting out in Zwift and looking at category D, the official figures can be misleading.
Decoding Category D: What to Expect
To be comfortably in the middle of a Zwift category D race, you should be able to sustain around 2.5 w/kg (watts per kilogram) for at least 30 minutes. When the road tilts upwards, be prepared to push in the range of 2.8-3.5 w/kg on climbs. If you’re aiming for the front of the D pack, maintaining 2.5 w/kg throughout the race is often necessary.
Moving Beyond D: Categories C and B
As you move up the categories, the demands increase. For category C, being competitive in the middle of the group generally requires holding 2.8-3.1 w/kg for at least 30 minutes, with hill climbs demanding 3.5-4 w/kg. To be at the top end of category C, you’ll likely need to sustain 3.2 w/kg for longer durations (sometimes races last 60 minutes or more), push 4-4.5 w/kg uphill, and possess a sprint capable of 6.5-7+ w/kg. Interestingly, winning a high-participation category C race often requires performance levels closer to category B. This trend continues into category B, where top riders often exhibit category A level capabilities.
This “category creep” occurs because stronger riders sometimes participate in lower category races. You might encounter riders who legitimately belong in categories A, B, or C racing in D, or A and B riders in C.
Zwiftpower: Your Real Race Insight
For a more accurate understanding of your race performance and category placement, consider using zwiftpower.com. Connecting your Zwift account to Zwiftpower allows you to analyze your race data in detail, view your Zwiftpower rating, and compare your performance against other riders in the Zwiftpower ranking system. Zwiftpower often automatically categorizes riders based on race data, and many Zwifters consider it the definitive source for “real results.”
Race Start Pacing: The Initial Surge
Be prepared for fast starts in Zwift races. In category D races, the front group often starts at around 3 w/kg for the first kilometer or two, with initial bursts of 3.5-4 w/kg in the first 500 meters. Category C races tend to start even harder, with front groups hitting 3.5-4+ w/kg for the first kilometer or two and initial 500-meter surges reaching approximately 4.5 or even 5 w/kg.
Even in social events advertised at an average of 2.5 w/kg, expect a strong start, especially in larger groups. A good strategy is to begin with 3.5+ w/kg for the first 500 meters and then settle into around 3+ w/kg for the first kilometer or two. During these social rides, uphill speeds might be around 2.7-3 w/kg, and flat sections around 2.2-2.4 w/kg.
Understanding these real-world category dynamics, especially what demands category D places on riders, can significantly improve your Zwift racing experience and help you set realistic goals.
