Rollers, trainers, and balance (beginner question)

[Catrin]

While I am unsure that I want/need the additional expense right now, I am wondering how useful a roller or trainer might be for me to help prepare for spring. I go to 3 spinning classes a week and two sessions with my personal trainer - but that isn't giving me any time to get to know my bike .

Which would be better for a beginner, rollers or a trainer? I know that you have to balance on rollers - which would seem to be a good idea for me - and my LBS has this on sale http://bgindy.com/product/09-cycleops-pvc-rollers-41032-1.htm.

I don't see how the resistance could be varied on rollers though, so would there be much of a chance to practice shifting? I know that is possible with a trainer, such as this one that is also on sale: http://bgindy.com/product/09-cycleops-mag-trainer-41027-1.htm, and I understand that a climbing block is also needed for this trainer which is an additional $25.

Right now I am trying to decide if cold-weather practice, or a trainer (or both), would be better to help me hit the road running in spring. In the end, I will need to make a choice, but more information will certainly help me make an informed one. I am really trying not to spend any more than I need to - and sometimes it is just too easy to spend money :rolleyes:

[sarahspins]

Maybe all you need is just time and opportunity?

[Catrin]

Maybe all you need is just time and opportunity?

Yep, that probably is it. I think impatience with the cold weather is kicking in - which is causing me to look at the rollers/trainers (though the information is still helpful). I think, in the end, that I really want to be outside - but even with the right clothes it is just too cold this weekend to get out and play... it seems a shame to waste all of that lovely sunshine!

Ah well, time to break out the needlework and a sci-fi marathon...

[NbyNW]

I've been researching rollers and trainers as well, and there are a lot of threads on this forum about them. There are some video product reviews on YouTube that may be worth watching as well. I've come to the conclusion that there's nothing like riding your bike outside, and if you want anything close to that, you're spending a lot of money.

Personally, I like the idea of rollers but am hesitant to spend the money unless I can try something out first. Added to that is that all of my bikes are weird sizes, so I need to get out to my freezing garage to measure my bike's wheel base. Also, I'd prefer to use a trainer tire rather than wear out my regular tires (there are different opinions about this too), which are 650c, 20" road, or 26" mtb. LBS carries 26" mtb trainer tires which might be the way to go.

Maybe your best bet is to find something used. And while it may not be ideal, it will at least be good for working on your cardio and pedal stroke, that kind of thing. Save money now, then upgrade later.

I remember reading on one of the threads that someone made a trainer block by wrapping an old phone book in duct tape. Maybe you could stack a couple to get different heights.

[hirakukibou]

I have a cyclops fluid trainer and like it for what it is -- that is an indoor workout. I would rather be outside too, but some days it is just too cold and snowy.

My friend has rollers that I am going to try out, but I watch her almost fall off them, and I wonder if they will be for me in the long run. People do say the rollers are more dynamic and less boring to ride, but they are also more dangerous in that you must pay attention at all times, lest you drift and fall off.

You might see if you can try them out at the bike store before you decide what is right for you. Best of luck.

[Ana]

I have a cyclops fluid trainer and like it for what it is -- that is an indoor workout. I would rather be outside too, but some days it is just too cold and snowy.

My friend has rollers that I am going to try out, but I watch her almost fall off them, and I wonder if they will be for me in the long run. People do say the rollers are more dynamic and less boring to ride, but they are also more dangerous in that you must pay attention at all times, lest you drift and fall off.

I agree! I have a fluid trainer too and, while it can become monotonous, I often watch a movie or shows on hulu while I ride which helps a little bit. I have begun looking into rollers but they are quite expensive and require more attentional diligence. Some days it's difficult enough to even get onto the bike, much less having to be hypervigilant about staying on the rollers and exerting physical effort :p

But it all depends on what is right for you and your goals (fitness, financial and comfort).

Basically, lots of companies try to recreate the experience of riding outdoors but it's really not possible. One of the things I like best about riding my bicycle is feeling the wind in my face and watching the scenery pass by. I think I'll just have to wait until spring to enjoy riding again ;)

[TrekTheKaty]

My DH and I fought over rollers vs trainer. After watching youtube videos of people wiping out on rollers, we bought a trainer. However, spinning class has been the best way to keep in shape during midwest winters. The instructor, loud music and group dynamic are improving our skills the most. The trainer is only used when spinning class is missed or we want to get in an extra day. Be patient--about a month to go in the midwest before we can start getting out on the road!

[aicabsolut]

You don't need the climbing block. A big textbook or phonebook works fine.

I am a bit scared of rollers. I think if I had lots of cash, I'd get a CompuTrainer. The regular fluid trainer works fine for me, and it's handy as a repair/cleaning stand and is smaller to transport to races.

[tulip]

If you are doing three spinning classes per week, I don't see why you would need rollers or a trainer. I got a trainer because I ended my membership at the gym (the spinning instructor that i really liked left and the others weren't worth the monthly fee).

Are you training for racing? When I did two spinning classes per week a few years ago, I was in great shape when the weather cleared up in the spring. It should be fun, and sometimes going overboard makes it not so much fun (called overtraining). You'll have to find where your limit is, though.

[WindingRoad]

As someone who recently sold her rollers and bought a stationary trainer, keep in mind a noise factor. I understand your concern about not being able to try it first. When I bought my rollers it was great until my neighbors started complaining they could hear them. They weren't THAT loud but enough to be extremely annoying so keep that in mind if you live in an apartment. My new trainer is MUCH quieter.

OK I had to put this on here too because it was just funny. Peanut thinks of THIS as her intense workout with the trainer:)

[ehirsch83]

Catrin,
Your photo is of a hybrid. Do you still ride that as your bike?

Rollers can be quite difficult on a bike like that. I do not see a trainer being much fun either on a hybrid.