I’m new to trainers and want to move into one for the coming winter---which is an issue in my area ~200 mi S of Montreal. I’m doing my homework early so I’ll be equipped and ready to get into it when the weather here goes bad on me.

My apt bldg has a mini health club with a couple of those upright-configured, sit-bolt-upright-on “exercycles.” The look awful and I’m guessing they’re exactly what they look like. From what I’ve read here, a smart move would be a Kurt Kinetic, a Cycle Ops Fluid 2 or rollers. Is the “exercycle” even worth messing around with or should I just put the hit on a CC and buy something decent?

I’ve read enough about the rollers vs. rear wheel trainer quandary to get the sensation that it’s another of those “never-ending debate”/“unsolvable quandary” things. I’m an arthritic 68 y/o looking to get into condition for a >1,500 mi self-contained solo tour (hospitable river valley terrain, lon-lethal daily mileage done at my pace) next summer. NO racing training or racing for me---EVER. Any suggestions on the rollers vs. rear wheel trainer quandary for my situation?

Any insights and help will be much appreciated. Thanks.