Everything you need to know about bikes in 'Pokémon Sword and Shield'

In the world of Pokémon, there’s no better way to get around than by using your handy bicycle. This remains true in Pokémon Sword and Shield, and luckily there’s more to do with your trusty metal steed this time around. Using your new Rotom-infused bike, obtained after the first gym, you can speedily roam the Wild Zone while earning a bit of currency for simply traveling. All you need to do is sign up for a Rotom Rally!

What is a Rotom Rally?

Rotom Rallies make traversing the Wild Area in Sword and Shield a bit more fun, and each jaunt will earn you some watts. A rally can be initiated by speaking to any Watt Trader found in the Wild Area. Upon conversing with them and selecting “The Rotom Rally,” you’ll be prompted to choose one of five route options. Each option also shows the projected time for completing said route from your current location.

Once starting the route, you’ll have a base time of 30 seconds to complete it. White and red balloons along the way will guide you to your destination. Your bike will speed up by running into the white balloons, while the red ones will add time to the clock. Wild Pokémon still appear during a Rotom Rally, but running into them will put your character into a tizzy rather than initiate a battle.

You’ll know you’re done once you see another Watt Trader by a red balloon, who will award you a small sum of watts for your hard work. The faster you complete the course, the bigger the payout.

How to get faster times in Rotom Rallies

While I’d love to say “get good,” instead, you should upgrade your bike. Speak to any Watt Trader and choose the “Improve My Bike” option. All it takes is a small sum of watts, and you’ll start rolling faster than ever. This can be done three times. The first upgrade costs 1,000 watts, 3,000 for the second, and 5,000 for the final upgrade. Each upgrade will improve your Rotom Rally time and the speed at which you can jet through Galar.

There’s also another upgrade you’ll get on Route 9, allowing you to ride your Rotom Bike on water! After defeating a duo of Team Yell grunts, a scientist will reward you equippable paddles. This replaces the “surf” feature from previous games.

Pokémon Sword and Shield are currently available in stores.