Roller Stabilization Device *SURVEY*
 

Everyone,
I am in a design class trying to come up with a stabilization device for roller trainers. If anyone could just answer these few questions, it would really help me out a ton. Thanks!

How often have do you lose your balance on the rollers during one use?

None 1-2 3-4 5-6 more than six

How many times have you been injured using the rollers?

None 1-2 3-4 5-6 more than six

Would you be interested in a stabilization device that would help support the bike, but could be adjusted to allow some movement?

Yes No

How much would you be willing to spend on such a device?

$50-$75 $76-$100 $101-$125 $126-$150

Where would be the best location on the bike to clamp for stabilization?

1) None (since I learned how to ride rollers)
2) None
3) Yes
4) 50 - 75 over the price of the rollers

Hard to say, imobilize the top of the bike and the wheels slide out
from under you. However Tacx markets a stabilzing device that clamps
to the handle bars. so maybe my thinking is off?

As an avid roller rider this is interesting, I'd be interested to see what
you come up with.

Marty

1. Depends on the last time I did it. If I'm rusty, maybe once or twice.
2. None.
3. No. If I wanted stability I'd use my trainer. Rollers are for balance.
4. N/A
5. Maybe a skewer that would attach to fork or clamping the downtube.

I've ridden rollers untold hours over the last 20+ winters and may be a little biased, but here goes;

How often have do you lose your balance on the rollers during one use? None

How many times have you been injured using the rollers? None

Would you be interested in a stabilization device that would help support the bike, but could be adjusted to allow some movement? No

How much would you be willing to spend on such a device? $0

Where would be the best location on the bike to clamp for stabilization? I wouldn't.

I think you are seeking a solution to a problem that doesn't exist.

The rollers are just fine the way they are.... Why make them complicated...?

I have a roller stabilization device that I got with my Kreitler rollers before I developed my balance. Used them one time and the work-out was not as good as just using the rollers alone. After 9 months of roller riding, I wouldn't waste my money on a stabilization device. No injuries or problems.

If there was a device where you could adjust the stabiliztion to the point where it would not restrict your movement, only protect you from falling, would you be interested?


Do you think such a device would be beneficial to those just beginning to ride on rollers?

Would you use a such a device as a safety option if you are an experienced rider?

How often have do you lose your balance on the rollers during one use?

None, once I learned to use them

How many times have you been injured using the rollers?

None

Would you be interested in a stabilization device that would help support the bike, but could be adjusted to allow some movement?

No. I actually have rollers and a trainer. If I want to read or watch tv while I’m stationary, I use the trainer. If I want to concentrate on what I’m doining, I use the rollers. I don’t really see the need for a mode of operation between the two.

How much would you be willing to spend on such a device?

$0

Where would be the best location on the bike to clamp for stabilization?.

I have actually seen people who use a fork clamp with their rollers—I don’t know if this is a custom job or if this is a standard piece of gear. With the fork clamped in the back of the bike can move a little, but the bike is esentially locked in upright. This is really just like using a trainer, though.

1. none
2. none
3. no
4. zero

I use the roller specifically to train my balance and riding skills when I can't get out on the road. So having a bracket or something would defeat the purpose for me. In spite of my position here, your idea is interesting and I am sure you would find buyers if you put it on the market, especially if it could be used with all brands of rollers (i.e. not attached directly to the roller frame).

Kreitler offers a fork stand for their roller, as does Tacx. However, I think they hold the bike still as opposed to your concept with some movement allowed.

Rollers are intended to help people develop perfectly internalized balance, so the bike does not wobble when they pedal. Your stabilization device could not interfere with this without degrading the utility of rollers.

It seemed to me that what was needed for people who had trouble with rollers, was an accident-catching device, so they couldn't fall and get hurt. I built a two-foot thick doorway that was only barely wider than the rollers, out of plywood and lumber. I then got extravagant and built a deck that covered the space inside the doorway, between the two front rollers, and of course the rollers were fixed relative to the doorway. At that point I stopped and never finished it. I work on it a little bit each winter. Someday it will be done, but I no longer have a ready list of people with bad pedal strokes who will volunteer. Maybe that will change.