Guide to Indoor Trainers
Bad weather, shorter days, and frigid temperatures have long plagued cyclists during the winter months. Oftentimes this makes it very challenging to maintain some sort of cycling routine, especially if you live in a place like Salt Lake City, UT. When these obstacles make riding outside difficult, it’s time to move things inside. A great way to do this is by using an indoor trainer.
What are Indoor Trainers?
Indoor trainers are basically devices that convert your current bicycle into a stationary bike so you can use it inside. With COVID-19 restrictions still in place at many gyms, they provide a safe and effective way to continue your cycling routine. When it comes to trainers, there are three basic types: direct-drive, friction, and rollers.
Direct-drive
Direct-drive trainers attach to the rear dropouts of your bike, replacing your wheel and providing a direct connection with the resistance unit. There is a cassette on the unit itself that your chain goes on and this type of trainer is widely considered the most accurate and offers the highest levels of resistance.
Friction
Friction trainers have a roller that sits against your rear wheel on the bike and utilize either magnetic or fluid resistance. Although lighter and more portable compared to direct-drive trainers, they also produce more noise and are less accurate.
Rollers
Rollers are the most basic style of trainer and involve three rolling mechanisms which your wheels sit atop while you balance on it. Resistance ranges widely but these trainers can help you refine pedaling technique.
Smart Trainers
Though they closely resemble the look and feel of other indoor trainers, smart trainers are a bit of a different animal. The “smart” aspect means that they can sync wirelessly with various cycling apps and adjust resistance automatically based on information from an app. I would definitely recommend these if you are looking for the most immersive indoor cycling experience possible. Apps like Zwift make it possible for users to interact, train, and compete in a virtual cycling world giving users an experience similar to riding outside.
Things to Consider
Prices of indoor trainers can vary widely - from as little as a few hundred bucks to as much as thousands of dollars - so it’s important to find one that suits your individual needs and abilities in cycling. Here a few things to consider before purchasing one:
Axle Compatibility
Most trainers nowadays are designed for current bike geometry standards, which can be a problem for older bikes. Many of them come with various attachment options and adapters, but if yours doesn’t you’ll have to purchase them separately. For direct-drive, make sure that the cassette on the trainer is compatible with the drivetrain on your bike.
Noise
Most people who buy a trainer will be using it at home, so consider others in your household that may be affected by the noise produced by both your bike and trainer. Aim to try it out before you buy to get an idea of the noise, and if possible try it with your bike.
Stability
Not only for the trainer but also where you will be using it. A sturdy and level surface like that of a hardwood floor works best, the broader the better when it comes to a trainer's base.
Tires
With any trainer that comes in direct contact with your tires, there is a possibility of severe tire wear. It’s best to use a trainer-specific or inexpensive tire on your rear wheel so you don’t shred your nice one.
Our Favorite Trainers
Wahoo Kickr
Known for its consistency and reliability, the Wahoo Kickr is the gold standard when it comes to smart trainers. This is a direct-drive trainer, so it will attach directly to the drivetrain of your bike. The new Kickr measures power more accurately than its predecessor, and even allows for some side-to-side movement while riding. It has a nice wide and stable base to keep you planted and overall has a very natural feel. Compatibility is not an issue, as the Kickr comes stock with every adapter needed for most modern road and mountain bikes. In addition, this trainer now has the ability to directly connect to the internet via the Wahoo direct connect accessory (a $99 upgrade), making for reduced lag when using cycling apps. Priced at $1,199 the Kickr sits on the high end of the price range for smart trainers, but when you consider all the features and the overall reliability it is well worth it.
Saris Fluid2
The Fluid2 is one of the best friction trainers on the market, and for good reason. It is based on a fluid resistance unit that provides a much smoother feel compared to that of a magnetic friction trainer; it is quite realistic and the more power you put in the harder the trainer resists. There is also a wide contact area for the tire, which helps eliminate noise. Overall the unit is very stable and durable as it is made of solid steel, and will last a long time given the proper care. At $299.99 it is modestly priced for its category, but it does offer compatibility with virtual cycling apps with the purchase of an accessory sensor.
Wahoo Kickr Bike
Although technically more of a stationary bike than a trainer, the Wahoo Kickr is too cool to not mention. With features such as integrated grade changes, customizable gearing, and simulated shifting, the Kickr Bike is essentially the closest thing you can get to riding a bike outside, but inside. You can even attach your own pedals, handlebars, and saddle for a truly customized ride. This bike has virtual shifting technology that is programmable to match exact gear ratios of drivetrains from leading brands, with a digital display to show gearing and grade. To no surprise, the Kickr bike is compatible with leading cycling training apps for your virtual riding pleasure. If you really wanna go nuts, you can even purchase the Kickr Headwind Smart Fan to simulate wind while you’re riding. Are you sold yet? You can get all this for the low price of just $3,499.99 - ouch! However, for those dedicated to get the best possible indoor cycling setup, the Wahoo Kickr bike is as good as it gets.
- Devin Keefe
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