I plan on purchasing this trainer (Cycleops Mag Trainer). Do I NEED to also buy a block for the front tire? How terrible would it be if there was nothing under the front tire? If it is, are there cheaper alternatives for the front tire?


Thanks!

Phone book
piece of 2X4
concrete paver stone

You can do it without, although if you're watching a DVD or something, your neck can get sore from looking up. Position is a bit "downhill", but that won't affect your training much if you're pushing it hard.

Still, I recommend a block for stabilizing the front wheel and also getting the height up.

Phone book works ok unless you sweat a lot - I can kill one within a week, turning into a pile of mush.

Its worth the small investment to get a plastic one IMO.

I've tried using phone books but they tend to slip. It's a good investment but not strictly necessary.

8-10" piece of 2x4, or if you want a slight "uphill" ride, 4x4. Just put it under your front wheel.

That's disgusting.

I got my block for free, but I like it a lot, because i tend to rest a lot on the handlebars. Plus it's good if you're careful with your floor...or any other reason you can think of...

how are you liking your mag trainers? I am considering one without any means of changing the machine resistance and was wondering if they are worth it

If you're on a rubber exercise mat, the riser block also frees up the front wheel for steering inputs during harder pedalling.

A 2x6 piece of wood is very close to level for my CycleOps Fluid. Front is tad higher.

Two 10 pound dumbbells. Seriously strong and the wheel won't move. I found the pair in the garage when I moved in to my new house in September.