Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 13,140
Likes: 2,162
From: Ann Arbor, MI
Bikes: 15 Kinesis Racelight 4S, 76 Motebecane Gran Jubilée, 17 Dedacciai Gladiatore2, 12 Breezer Venturi, 09 Dahon Mariner, 12 Mercier Nano, 95 DeKerf Team SL, 19 Tern Rally, 21 Breezer Doppler Cafe+, 19 T-Lab X3, 91 Serotta CII, 23 3T Strada
Power isn't linear on the road at RPM, so this was one of the selling points on the Fluid2 back in the day, "realistic road feel." Faster=harder.
I'm also a teouble-free owner of 10 years, and I think any claims of these having a reputation for leaking are overstated. You know how stories go around the internet! The Fluid2 was a top trainer for a long time.
But yes, as [MENTION=62541]kc0bbq[/MENTION] stated, for people wanting to simulate really low RPM max efforts, it's the wrong tool. I don't think there are many who need to do that, and such workouts are not really part of modern training regimens, but nonetheless... I use a 53/11 on mine, and I think sub 65rpm, I can't make more than 350-400w; I've never monitored exactly. In a high cadence sprint, north of 110rpm, I can pull 930-950w, so KC0bbq's numbers ring true to me.
Searching for a "virtual power curve" for the unit should also reaffirm and give an estimate of watts at speeds.
ERG trainers are electronically controlled resistance units, which will hold a power level requirement irrespective of speed. Do look at their max wattage ratings, though, if you throw down big watts; some are as low as 450w, while others can pull 1600w. Depending on one'll needs, lower resistance power can be sufficient; holding 450w for an hour should tax just about anyone!