Bike trainer- need help choosing one

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2011-11-12 8:32 PM

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Subject: Bike trainer- need help choosing one
I want to get a trainer to use with my bike during the cold months. I have a hybrid bike so I am not sure if that matters. I looked them up on amazon and found many, but I have no idea what to look for. Some were $70 and some were as much as $400. I am not willing to spend over $100 on the trainer. What is a good suggestion for one? Do I really need one, or would it be the same if I practice on an upright stationary bike at the gym or a spin bike? Thanks for suggestions.


2011-11-12 8:45 PM
in reply to: #3899900

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Subject: RE: Bike trainer- need help choosing one

Typically the recommendation is to train on the bike you will race on.

If you are riding a Hybrid this may not be as big of a issue.

In your case i'm going to say that you could ride the spin bike at the gym and get almost as good of training.

That said, look on Craigs List for a trainer.  I got a good fluid trainer for $120 off CL, and spent almost 300 for a magnetic one the same day at the store.  (one for me and one for my wife).  I should have waited and gotten both off of CL.

Most trainers last forever.  There are a lot of brands, but if you find one and want to know if someone had a bad experience with it ask here.

That said,

2011-11-14 1:25 PM
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Subject: RE: Bike trainer- need help choosing one
2011-11-14 1:36 PM
in reply to: #3899900

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Subject: RE: Bike trainer- need help choosing one
I recently bought a CycleOps Fluid 2 trainer and really like it but it cost more than your $120 limit.
2011-11-14 1:44 PM
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Subject: RE: Bike trainer- need help choosing one
If you could bump your price limit up just a bit you can get a new trainer from a reputable brand. Look at the Blackburn Mag3. We sell this for $150 in my LBS

If your budget is set, then as was stated before, browse CL and such as used trainers do pop up now and then.

Whichever way you decide to go, it will be a great investmemnt in your bike fitness once Spring comes around!
2011-11-14 1:45 PM
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Subject: RE: Bike trainer- need help choosing one

I've had great luck with the prior version of this (mine doesn't have the flywheel) over the past 7 years or so:

http://www.nashbar.com/bikes/Product_10053_10052_120106_-1_202630_10000_202606

It's nothing fancy, but it gets the job done quite nicely.  Keep watch, and it should show up on sale for ~$100 or so.

 

2011-11-14 1:59 PM
in reply to: #3899900

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Subject: RE: Bike trainer- need help choosing one

In general I would say that you get what you pay for, but if you're using a hybrid I would take a look at the "house model" at Performance Bicycle (sorry - I can't remember what it's called, but it's red).   They are always running offers and, while not quite as smooth as some of the higher priced brands, it will certainly do the trick and is within your price range.

 

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