Training & Nutrition - Recommended Resistance Trainer?

Greetings,

I have been out on my bike for the past few weeks now and I am cursing that I did not ride during the winter here in Minnesota. We had spotty snow this past winter and so my Cross Country Ski training was so so. Needless to say - I am out of shape. Yes, I admit it - it is my fault.

So I am starting to look into purchasing a Resistance Trainer for my bike to train on during next winter. So come the beginning of next season I'll be in better shape. (Stop laughing, I mean it this time!)

Does anyone out there use a Resistance Trainer? What do you like? What don't you like? What should I look for/stay away from? What is the "Top of the Line" of Resistance Trainers?

Thanks for any replies.
:beer:

David

The Cateye Cyclosimulator is the closest thing to the real road. It's got a lot of nice features. You can monitor speed, time, watts, calories, and it has a stop watch feature, also. It's the best trainer to monitor your progress. The disadvantage is the pricetag. Look around though, sometimes used ones go on sale, if you watch carefully.

I think some other people here can back me up on this one?

If you want to get serious about it, Tacx i-Magic is the creme-dela-creme.
http://www.branfordbike.com/trainer/train3a.html#item1

Do a search, several people have asked a similar question this winter.
My opinion: get a fluid trainer (quieter, more realistic resistance), variable resistance is nice but not necessary (use gears). I have a Performance TravelTrac, actually a re-branded Elite. No complaints.

As with 'roadbuzz', I have the least expensive Performance TravelTrac fluid resistance trainer. Have used for two years and about 2000 miles over the last two winters. It works admirably and is reasonably quiet. I listen to the early morning news (just did a 45 min recovery ride this morning) while riding. You can spend as much as you want on these things, but I choose to spend the least and am happy with the quality and the results. If I want more resistance, I simply shift to a smaller cog on the back.

The one other recommendation I will make is that you get something like the heaviest/toughest rear tire to use. There is considerable slippage between your rear tire and the resistance roller. Especially when you sprint or stand to pedal. I use the original full Kevlar Specialized Armadillo. Also remember to talc any tube you put into the tire as there is considerably more heat build-up than you will get one the road.

Have fun!

I ride a cyclops fluid 2+ and it's been good for me. the resistance is smooth and steady, I've been on it for about 3 years now without problems, the best thing I like about it is that it's quiet.

Hey RideTheRoad,

I was into Now Bikes & Fitness the other day, and they are having a moving sale. I recall seeing all their trainers on sale, including fluid trainers. I asked about a bike component, and they said it was 25% off. Before I'd left, he had come back with 50% of the price! (It seems they are willing to deal on their prices rather than be forced to pack and move stuff!). Its also a good bet indoor trainers are not exactly jumping off their shelves with spring practically here. If your here in the Cities, it might be worth a trip! Good Luck!


www.nowbikes-fitness.com/site/index.cfm


Its the Arden Hills Location, theirs a link on their web site that will give you a map.