questions about trainers
 

I'm curious about getting a trainer (is that what they are called?), but I honestly don't quite know exactly what they are. Yes I know, google it. And I will, but I'd rather ask another human being since I'll get some real opinions this way. I'm guessing they're a contraption to mount your bike on instead of buying an exercise bike. Will they work for virtually any bike (I have a Giant Boulder and my wife will probably have a cruiser/comfort bike this year)? How does it work? What are some good brands and general prices? Keep in mind that I don't drive a Cadillac nor do I have the money for Cadillac pricing, if you get my drift. thanx

I have been very happy with my low cost trainer from Pricepoint. Took five minutes to set the bike on it. Just remove the axle on your bike (assuming it is a quick release lever) and substitute the one they give you with the trainer. Have been using it regularly.
http://www.pricepoint.com/detail/166...ve-Trainer.htm
If you get one and you like it you might want to get another for your wife's bike so you don't have to keep switching.

thanx! Are they pretty sturdy, as in I don't have to worry bout tipping over if I get a bit crazy on the speed? Also, does it matter what type of tire I have? Currently I have the stock aggressive off road tires, but plan to put a set of smoother tires on my spare rims.

Mine seems quite sturdy even when I stand on the pedals. Suppose there is a limit to how wild you can be but for me it is perfectly adequate. Others might have more to say but I believe any reasonably smooth tire will suffice.

How loud or quiet is the Glyde? Is it louder than fluid trainers?

Are you still happy with it?

holy crap, the search function musta worked for you!

I have an cheap Nashbar fluid trainer. It's rusty from sweat and the handle broke off long ago so I have to use a vise-grip to tighten it. It also makes a funny jet engine noise until it warms up. But it does what it does. And I don't care because I only use it in the garage or to warm up for races.

You can spend more for quieter ones, nicer looking ones, or ones with variable resistance and power data. But they all do the same thing: hold your bike and let you spin in one place.