Fluid Trainers

[Flybye]

I purchased a trainer that I HATE. I am considering a fluid trainer and am hoping to get a little better educated before I sink the big $$ on one. My big complaint about mine is that I can't get an even tension. I have to get off, adjust the tension, get back on, get back off, get back on, and then go upstairs and eat a bag of chips because I am so frustrated with the stupid thing.

What are the differences in trainers? The good, the bad, and the ugly?

Here is one that I found on Craigslist for less than the price listed on nashbar.
http://www.nashbar.com/profile.cfm?category=6000123&subcategory=60001087&brand=&sku=18859&storetype=&estoreid=&pagename=Shop%20by%20Subcat%3A%20Trainers%20and%20Rollers

Does anyone have this particular trainer, and if so, do you like it?

Is there somewhere to online to read comments about trainers?

Thanks!

[makbike]

Is the rear wheel true? If not, it may be causing your tension problems.

[SouthernBelle]

I have that trainer and have no complaints. I've had no adjustment problems. On the other hand, It's the only one I've ever had so I have no points of comparison.

[kie_fujo]

we have 2. we have a bell trainer we got on amazon and a forza f2. i don't notice much difference between them. the forza does seem a bit more stable but my only complaint is that you have to change out your quick release skewer if you don't have a certain type. the bell was my husbands, but my bike doesn't have the right kind of quick release and i didn't want to change it out so i now use the bell since he doesn't use it. i've never had tension problems with either one though.

[SouthernBelle]

Most trainers come with a second skewer. Since the setup usually is clamps on either end of the skewer, it puts all your weight right on the skewer and may cause it to bow.

[ttaylor508]

We have a Kinetic fluid trainer and we love it. It is quiet, doesn't leak fluid and gives you a very realistic feel to the road. It is east to put your bike on too. Here is the website if you want to find out more http://www.kurtkinetic.com

[sundial]

I purchased a trainer that I HATE.

When's the next garage sale? :D

I have a CycleOps that I really like. Maybe you can snag a gently used one from a TE'er or from your LBS.

For some reason, we've been displeased with equipment ordered from Bike Nashbar. :(

[Flur]

We have a Kinetic fluid trainer and we love it. It is quiet, doesn't leak fluid and gives you a very realistic feel to the road. It is east to put your bike on too. Here is the website if you want to find out more http://www.kurtkinetic.com

Oooh, they're selling the demos of the Rock and Roll trainer for almost half off! DH and I have been looking for a good trainer, and with the lifetime warranty we couldn't pass that one up!