Considering a trainer

[trekin']

Winter is definitely on its way, and now that I've discovered biking, I don't want to stop! I am seriously allergic to cold weather, so I'm considering buying a trainer. I'd appreciate opinions about using a trainer in general, plus advice about what's good and what's not. Also, do trainers cause undue wear and tear on the rear tire?

[Veronica]

There have been a few threads about trainers off and on. Try doing a search on the word "trainer."

I have a Kurt Kinetic and use Spinervals tapes through the winter when it's too rainy to ride. But you can read all about it here


Veronica

[pedalfaster]

As Veronica pointed out the trainer thread is a good read.

As others have noted: rollers will make your smooth. Make sure you have enough space if you plan to go that route.

Magnetic trainers are a good low-cost option, and the prices seem to be dropping all the time.

Wind trainers are reallllly loud.

Sometimes we'll get a group together (everyone brings their own bike/trainer) and we'll spin to a workout tape (e.g. Spinervals) together. Sort of a make-your-own spin class just for cyclists.

I prefer fluid trainers and music (make up my own workout) when I'm on the trainer alone.

Actually I prefer to XC ski in the winter...but that's another thread....

[neuroticcyclist]

Tire wear is real. I swear by my fluid trainer and catch up on all the movies I never got to see in theatres.....

[trekin']

I just bought a Minoura Magnetic trainer from ebay. Now I'm trying to decide if I should use my hybrid or my road bike, and which movies I want to watch!