Is there such thing as a learning curve for stationary trainers? Ive wonked out both of my knees on separate occasions on the trainer using the same bike I like to train on. Both times it was the lower inside of either knee. What gives? I try to stretch and did both of the wonks just spinning..Riding in the field on this bike works fine. I did recently drop the bars a bit but my low back and arms have conversely never felt better....im stumped...overtraining? too much pedal float (speedplay x2s).

positioning. you need to have your bike fit. typically the place you indicate pain is indicative of your seat being too low.

You know, FWIW I also have a range of fit problems when I get on a stationary trainer that I do not get when I am on the road, my left foot goes numb, Saddle pain, Hip flexor problems.

I have chalked it up to: Riding the trainer sucks

i would think it has a lot more to do with the stationary part. I'd hazard a guess when you ride, you move around a lot more than you realize. both the bike, and you physically.

Cadence and torque.

My bet is that you're mashing more on the trainer than you do on the road.

Also, make sure you're propping up the front wheel. If you're pedaling a false downhill for a long time, you could be engaging your knees to keep you back in the saddle. I just use a phone book for my front wheel -- which is all they're good for these days.

The fitting comment may have been correct, but I also agree with this. Spinning/endurance miles on the trainer used to make me oddly sore until I purposefully started moving around and changing position.

I find the trainer, due to the tendency to not move around, exposes imperfections in ones position. People also usually go harder for shorter durations.

I switched from Kurt Kinetic to inside ride e-motion rollers. Much more comfortable to train indoors on the rollers.