RideTheRoad

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.


David

velo

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?

TandemGeek

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

roadbuzz

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.

ParamountScapin 

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!

mrfix

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.

Cipher

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.