Trainer question

[makbike]

I purchased a used CycleOp2 Fluid Trainer last week and have started to use it this week. The manual online states that once the wheel contacts the trainer the tension knob should be turned 2 1/2 rotations for proper tension. My actual road work has dropped off dramatically the past 6 weeks and I was very ill last week with a sinus infection and bronchitis (I have asthma for lung issues typically knock me off my feet. I ended up spending 9 days in bed). What I have found with the trainer is I feel like I have no power whatsoever and I wonder if I'm doing something wrong. Do I have it the tension too high or have I simply have lost everything I gained this summer? Typically when I ride I keep my cadence around 95 - 105 rpm but on the trainer (using the same gears) I can only maintain a cadence of 75 - 80 rpm this seems like quite a drop and I have to admit it is frustrating me to some degree. I would appreciate any insight you guys might have to offer.

Thanks!

[Surlygirl]

Hey Makbike,
I have had the same problem. I have asthma also and had the cough, sinus, bronchitis thing. I was really sick for 2 1/2 weeks and on prednizone and antibiotics and my voice still isn't back to normal. I've been tapped. I haven't done any exercise in 3 weeks just because I've been so exhausted so don't rush your recovery. I also have the Cyclops trainer and I just turn the knob till the tire doesn't slip on the drum when pedaling. There should be enough pressure so you have resistance but you shouldn't feel like your pedaling through mud. Play around with it. If it slips when you pedal then its too loose.
Hope this helps.

[makbike]

Thanks, I played around with the tension this morning and it made a huge difference. I actually enjoyed my workout this morning.

I hope you are feeling better and stronger with each passing day. Being sick and not being to breath is awful. I hope you are back on your feet soon.

Have a great day!