Originally Posted by
JerrySTL
I had an aluminum frame that got bent when a car pulled out in front of me. I continued to use it - on my trainer during the winter.
Excellent suggestion. I always recommend that every rider who is willing to put time on an indoor trainer (winter or otherwise) have a dedicated trainer bike. First it saves wear and tear on your good bike and, second, it's always set up and ready to use so you don't have to switch a bike on and off the trainer each time.
A proper size but not roadworthy frame is the perfect candidate. None of the other components have to be high line and your parts box is the perfect source for them. The bars have to be in the proper relationship to the pedals and saddle and the saddle has to be suitable but nothing else matters.