Indoor cycling guide
ERG mode explained for indoor cycling
ERG mode gives an indoor cycling session a power target. You choose the workload in watts, and the bike adjusts resistance as your pedalling cadence changes. It is useful when a rider or coach wants a defined effort for a steady ride or a planned series of intervals.
Watts and resistance are different
Watts describe the rate of mechanical work. Resistance describes the load you push against, while cadence describes how quickly you turn the pedals. A resistance setting on its own does not tell you the power produced: the pedalling rate matters too.
With a fixed resistance setting, changing your cadence changes the work rate. In ERG mode, the bike changes resistance to help maintain the selected watt target within its operating range. This is why a power-based session can be easier to define and repeat than an instruction to use the same resistance level each time.
What happens when cadence changes
For the same power target, faster pedalling requires less resistance per pedal stroke; slower pedalling requires more. For example, a selected target of 150 W can remain the session objective while cadence changes. This example explains the principle and is not a recommended training intensity.
The control system operates within the bike’s supported range. A watt target is not a promise that any cadence or riding condition can be maintained. Choose a suitable workload, follow the equipment instructions and ask for a demonstration of how the controls respond.
Where ERG mode is useful
For an endurance session, a rider can follow a planned workload over a chosen duration. For intervals, the session can use different targets for work and recovery. A coach can describe the task clearly and record which targets were completed.
In group cycling, riders do not need to use the same number of watts to follow the same class structure. Individual targets can reflect different training experience and capacity, while the instructor coordinates the timing. The display remains one source of feedback alongside how the rider is responding to the effort.
How FTP testing fits into power-based training
Functional Threshold Power, or FTP, is a cycling benchmark used to help organise training intensity. Both VIKON Bike models include 20-minute and 60-minute FTP tests. These are different test durations, so compare results using the same protocol and a consistent setup.
A test result can inform later workload choices; it is not a substitute for appropriate preparation or coaching. The selected test should suit the rider’s experience and condition. This guide does not prescribe a test effort or assume that the two formats use an identical calculation.
ERG mode on VIKON Bike and Bike PRO
VIKON Bike provides a 50–500 W range without an integrated TFT screen. VIKON Bike PRO adds a TFT display and a maximum of 800 W. Both are self-powered and include professional ERG control, an integrated ergometer, FTP testing and wireless charging for compatible devices.
Both models support Bluetooth and compatible cycling-app setups, including Zwift, ROUVY and Kinomap. Reading workout data and controlling resistance are different functions. Their availability depends on the app, device and connection, and an app subscription may be required. Compatibility does not mean every app runs directly on the TFT screen.
Common questions
Is ERG mode the same as choosing a resistance level?
No. ERG mode uses a target power in watts and adjusts resistance as cadence changes. A fixed resistance setting leaves the workload dependent on how quickly you pedal.
Do VIKON Bike and Bike PRO both have ERG mode?
Yes. Both include professional ERG control and an integrated ergometer. Bike offers 50–500 W, while Bike PRO has a TFT display and power up to 800 W.
Can a cycling app control the bike’s resistance?
Resistance control depends on the app, connected device and supported connection setup. Confirm the functions you need with VIKON before choosing equipment or an app subscription.