What Is The Difference In Indoor Bicycle Trainers?   by Paul Tomlinson

in Sports / Other Sports    (submitted 2010-11-16)

So, what is the difference in indoor bike trainers? We will mainly look at 3 trainers today. We will skip the roller trainer and show that in action on another day.

In general you will find different features and quality with each manufacturer. So, lets grab one manufacturer and look at the difference in its trainers. Cycleops does a great job in building quality products and you can see their trainers below.

1. Wind Trainer - Uses a fan and air to create a smooth, even resistance. Extra-wide range of progressive resistance. Easy on the wallet. Manufacturer states that the vortex blade design is high powered but produces little noise. We find that this trainer does indeed have a good noisy hum but it is a smooth and excellent riding trainer. My recommendation is to grab your mp3 player and ride like the wind.

2. Magnetic Trainer - Five setting adjustments vary your workouts. Bar-mounted remote shifter that allows you to adjust the resistance on the unit while you train. Very smooth and although a quieter ride than the wind trainer, this trainer still has some noise. This trainer is a great alternative to the wind trainer. I definitely consider it a step up from the wind trainer.

3. Fluid Trainer - This trainer features a new larger flywheel with twice the inertia for an improved, road-like feel. Power band technology offers a wide resistance range. Surprisingly quiet and includes self cooling mechanisms. Pro cyclists call this both a great and quiet ride!

As in nearly everything, what you will find is that you get what you pay for. This seems to apply with every manufacturer and between manufacturers. Bottom line is that wind trainers make quite a bit of noise, magnetic trainers give a smoother ride with less noise, and fluid trainers in general are the most quiet of the indoor bicycle trainers and have the greatest number of features.

About the Author

As an avid cyclist, in the winter time you will not find Paul outside but instead he is riding his Magnetic Trainer.