Training & Nutrition - Trainers: wind, magnetic, fluid, rim drive???

As a novice biker, I would like to query the experts concerning the pros and cons of static trainers. I'm most interested in the aerobic exercise and not the "racing" training aspect.

So, what trainers are better and why: wind vs. magnetic vs fluid?

What about the rim drive trainers? Are these any good? I sort of like the idea of noiseless training on "nobby" tires.

Any recommendations for specific trainers? Wind? Magnetic? Fluid? and Rim Drive?

Thanks,
Nick

i've used a windload trainer for the past 15 years. no complaints besides boredom. i train with the tv and stereo on, telephone within arms reach, fan blowing, towels on the bike, trainer and floor. having a friend riding with you helps too.

I am also interested, specifically with feedback from anyone who has used the inter-rim trainer. The one I am interested in (Minoura is the only one I am aware of):

Minoura. Inter-Rim Ergo-50 Trainer (w/Remote Shifter)

This one uses a magnetic ring for resistance.

noise level?
smoothness of pedaling?

- Tim S.
tim@illustratedWORD.com

The trainer I've used most is a Minoura Mag trainer, and have found it to be fine. It's relatively quiet, and I haven't found the need for the remote adjustment, as the bike's gears provide enough resistance, without having to change the setting of the trainer on the go. If you combine this with the Computrainer program, either the Nintendo type, or with a computer, the whole exercise is greatly enhanced. Boredom isn't a factor when you can see a pacer ahead of you, even a virtual one.

From the CompuTrainer site, I see that they discontinued the Nintendo version as of Nov. 2000. I also could not find an option to just buy the software for use with other trainers. Is this possible?

If only CompuTrainer was available for the Mac I might be seriously interested (being a Mac owner)! They have no plans to develop their software for the Mac OS, unfortunately.

I remember seeing, many years ago, a video for use during training sessions where they mounted a camera to a bike (motorcycle?) and filmed rides through forest, mountains, etc.. Another low cost option to add interest to the indoor ride on those long winter days. Not sure if such a video is still available.

That was a good point on whether or not to invest the extra $$ for the remote. I will keep that in mind.

I haven't found any actual dimensions of the Minoura Ergo 50 while collapsed. Having a similar one yourself, does it look like it could fit easily into a standard suitcase when folded down? I may ask my in-Laws to bring one over from the States in their suitcase when they come for a visit, if it doesn't make the suitcase too heavy. :-) :-) The price is almost double here in Switzerland.

Thanks again for the helpful insights.

- Tim

Tim,

The Minoura trainer will fold up fairly flat, and the magnetic resistance unit is detachable, so it should fit into a suitcase. My trainer weighs about 15.5 lbs.