flats

Does propping up the front end of a set of rollers have the same effect as increasing the elevation on a treadmill, i.e hill-climbing simulation?

RChung

No.

Homebrew01

No.
On a treadmill, you are fighting gravity on an incline. On rollers, your bike does not roll backwards if you stop pedaling.

nymtber

Rollers are for smoothing out your pedal stroke (spinning), improving on-bike balance and ability to hold a line on the road. If you want resistance, get a trainer.

I'll never own a trainer again. I like how the Rollers engages my core a bit, where a trainer does not. BUT, I am a casual/recreational cyclist, I expect each spring I will need a few weeks to get up to longer rides. I'm ok with that.

achoo

Sure it does. Prop up the back end and work on your descent skills.

rpenmanparker 

Just be sure you don't descend into the kitchen.

Darth Steele

your information is outdated! here is are some rollers that have resistance, more of the newer ones have it as well.


"

• Integrated magnetic resistance unit with latest-generation neodymium magnets
• Magnetic resistance with 3 selectable levels via easy, ergonomic slider on the roller "

Elite Arion Mag Rollers

you can also shift in the higher gears to add more resistance.

the middle resistance feels pretty close to riding outside, besides you should be riding with a power meter anyway

thisisbenji

I have the CycleOps Rollers w/ Resistance. I can get quiet the workout on them. Mind you I'm a strong Cat IV rider, so I'm not putting down a ton of power.

jrossbeck

The resistance to pedal will not increase as much, but it will work the core, arms, etc. for that climbing position.

Bradleykd

If you raise the front high enough, you'll have to go fast enough to outrun the roller. Probably not feasible for long though... lol

OldsCOOL

I ride my trainer without the front wheel block. It felt a bit "downhill" and had to get used to it but I really wanted to put more pressure on hands, tri's and shoulders. It works well for that. As said, a trainer does not engage core strength very well. It's a stop-gap measure to keep bike related activity level at a minimum until you get back out on the road again. It really is good mid winter exercise for us snow bunnies but you will still feel that first few weeks of hillclimbs in early March.

lyrictenor1

However, doesn't elevating the front end of the rollers (or placing the rollers on an incline) help out you in a climbing position on the bike, just like you would with a trainer? Add resistance via gearing, and you should be able to mildly simulate a climb, similar to on a trainer, no?