Which Bike Rollers to get?
 

Hey Guys,
I recently got a bike, and want to get rollers. That way could train during the winter too. I have never been on a roller by the way.
I can't afford Kreitlers or other "gold standard" rollers :(

Was wondering if you guys could help me pick one out from the three here (Or if you have any recommendations under $300 CAD):
chainreactioncycles.com/ca/en/elite-parabolic-rollers/rp-prod30010
chainreactioncycles.com/ca/en/jetblack-r1-alluminium-rollers-with-lite-app/rp-prod146796
chainreactioncycles.com/ca/en/elite-arion-parabolic-rollers/rp-prod57908

Thanks

Personally, I favor rollers with larger drums. These have less resistance, and allow for riding at higher wheel speeds. Higher wheel speeds adds to stability. I don't like rollers with resistance features, you can increase resistance by shifting into higher gears.

Of the three links you posted, the Jet Black rollers with the aluminum drums would be the best (IMO). The parabolic feature on the other rollers won't prevent falls, and the increased width of the aluminum rollers gives you a little more room if you get wobbly.

When riding on rollers, pedal with your hips. Once you spend a little time on them, you'll know what I mean. Rollers are okay for fitness, but where they really shine is on pedaling technique. You'll feel the difference in your riding after you first roller workout. Rollers greatly improve your balance, steadiness, and pedal stroke.

Set up your rollers on a hard surface, wood or tile. Don't use them on carpet. You'll sweat a lot, much more than you think, because you won't have any wind pushing over you to evaporate it. A fan really helps. Riding rollers can get boring once you get past the falling-off stage. I set up a tv in front of my rollers, and watch TDF race videos.

Get the kind with the highest resale value because there is a decent chance you will want to get rid of them. I ended up selling my Krietler rollers to a friend after using them very little. My friend ended up selling them to yet another mutual friend after not long. Sometime I wonder if they are still out there.


I would go for an indoor trainer instead, especially since you are a noob.

Whichever rollers you get, do the world a favor and set up a video capture of your first use of them, then post it for the world to see...

I personally bought the following unit, which is closest to the Jetblack model you posted above:

Travel Trac Technique PRO Alloy Rollers

While nothing beats riding outdoor, rain or shine, I've been known to chicken out on some NorCal rainy days :D Riding indoor bores me to death, but I would catch up on some 1-hour TV shows so t makes it bearable!

Good luck with the purchase!

Geoff

About 30 years ago I bought rollers from Performance. Fold up and, thus, easily portable with larger drums. They are absolutely the best training device if your goal is to learn to pedal smoothly. I still have them and they still work perfectly.

Sportcrafter Overdrive Pro
They have progressive resistance which feels very much like real riding.

Lifetime warranty. $299 list but considerably cheaper if you shop around.

I have these too and am very satisfied with them.

I never use the resistance feature and prefer to spin in zone 2, listening to music.

For interval training, I used a separate trainer.