Road Cycling - Flexing in the Trainer

I understand that frames may flex in the trainer, but how much is too much for a 61cm 853 steel frame?

BTW - I'm 6'3" and 250lbs.

Yes, frames can flex. Your steel frame though shouldn't really be effected much by this. You have to be careful with top-of-the-line lightweight aluminum, titanium, carbon frames much more. Just ride. You'll be fine.

Steel , like carbon and titanium should be ok but aluminium is a bit of a problem in an A frame cycle trainer due to metal fatigue related issues ( remember the Comet ? ) and using a trainer could invalidate your warrenty on an ali frame .

I've had my steel frame in an old style trainer where the front fork and bottom bracket clamp in for 6+ years. I'm amazed at the overall amount of rear end flexing when I ride but nothing has come apart yet. You could retire your steel to the trainer and get a new titanium ride (I did last year) or buy an older bike for the trainer. That way you don't have to worry about your frame when making that hair raising downhill hairpin turn. Remember, it's always time to shop for a new ride! :D :D

It talking with my LBS guy, todays aluminum frames shouldn't have a problem with trainers.

I just e-mailed cannondale....maybe if i get a response they can shed some light on the subject

I've had a CAAD4 frame in a Fluid2 for three years over the winter (my lousy weather and trainer bike) and have had absolutely no problems.

Here's my simple e-mail exchange with cannondale.

To: custserv@cannondale.com
Subject: CAAD 5

Will using an R800 on an indoor winter trainer cause permanent damage or harm to my bike?

Dave

We don't have any warnings against using a trainer with our bikes, but if you do.Clean the bike on a regular basis to keep the salt build up down . Indoor training the body sweats on the bike more than road riding and can cause rust. Many people buy a old road bike for a trainer bike and save thegood bike for the road.
Thanks