As Chicago weather is not conducive towards riding year around I'm interested in getting a trainer / roller.

From my research:

1. Rollers take some getting used to, will give real road feel and require correct posture. They are also more expensive.
2. Trainers offers better resistance training, doesn't simulate real riding and can possibly put more wear on your tires (I read this one on a review but don't know if it's true).

I'm leading more towards rollers for ease of storage and my computer is mounted on the front tire.

However I can totally see how I would enjoy a trainer so I can watch some tv while exercising.

Anyone want to share their experiences with either or?

Only have trainer, yes they will wear out tires faster so don't use fancy race ones on them.

This topic has been discussed ad-nauseam. Anyway since you asked for owners experience, I have a Kurt Kinetic Rock n Roll trainer which gives you the ability to sway side to side, in addition to a little up and down vertical movement. I love it. Other than having to do it in a closed room by yourself it is a very good alternative to those days when the weather is bad or you don't get time. Never rode rollers before, other than watching guys do it on youtube.

As for tires, I use Michelin Krylion tires which have stood up very well to trainer+road use.

Agreed, I first did a search to but couldn't find much input on a roller trainer. If I did go with a trainer it would be a Kurt Kinetic as I've seen great reviews both on Amazon as well as this forum.

Basically I want a roller trainer but am worried about the "falling off" or amount of concentration I will need to ride it, also it would be a plus if I can ride and watch TV. I think that's questionable though considering if I mess up I really don't want to fall in my livingroom.

For what it's worth, I asked at the lbs. The owner said he couldn't stay on them, and it seems some people can't. His hired mechanic and very strong rider likes them. Says he doesn't get bored like on a trainer. Best shot would be to find someone with rollers and see if you can handle them. If you can, that's probably the way to go. If you can't, remember that in the house, there are lots of things to get tangled up with and injuried by, just in case you take a fall.

Do keep in mind that if you do fall, those wheels are traveling 15 - 25 mph.

I used to ride rollers when I was racing, now I just dress a bit warmer and keep on riding.

Rollers will make you smooth out your technique. If you come off the side of the rollers the wheels stop pretty quick, crashing is a different story. I have never ridden them, but I believe they make rollers that can be converted to a mag type trainer and have a fork mount on them. My wife has a trainer that uses the rear wheel of the bike to drive it and dial in the resistance.

Aaron

difference is attention span, your mind can wander on the trainer,
rollers require your undivided attention

though there are flared end rollers with a couple skate wheels
to keep your wheel on the front drum.