Matt Gilmartin's 2nd Quarter Group- back in the pool! FULL HOUSE (Page 23)

I think I will check it out then if it's still available. I'm assuming you have to have a mat to put underneath it? Are they really loud? Glad to hear it can handle a lot of hours, because you're right - I need to wear that thing out!

Oh, and loudness?  Somewhat.  I can't lie to you, they make some noise for sure.

My only other bit of advice to you- get a trainer-specific tire for your bike.  The heat generated on a trainer will melt regular tires in no time.  I can't tell you how many sets I went through.

Thanks for the help! The ad says it comes with a "Rav X wheel block for your front wheel with two different heights ($15 value)." Not sure what that is.

And a "Kinetic rear training tire (700x23) to save your road tires from wear and tear on the trainer."

The block goes under the front tire. One to even the bike with the back, the second to simulate uphills.

Right, just like Mariah said

Sufferfest is all the rage in training right now.  2012 is my year of the run, so I have spent 0 hours on my bike.  2013 will see me Suffering too

Yeah...we like suffering!

I've seen them but never tried one.  They're pretty cool looking, but I'd think you'd have to wear a baselayer or itch to death with them.  It'll be great for that Alpine riding you're going to be doing.

I haven't heard anything from the guy with the Road Machine on Craigslist, although the ad is still posted. I'm thinking he may have someone interested and is waiting to see if that works out, so I will probably wait a bit too. Meanwhile I've seen good deals on Jet Black Fluid Trainers (?) so I'm trying to read up on them. It seems from your post and Matt's that there are a lot of good options out there, luckily. I definitely want one by the end of the year! Thank you guys for all the feedback.

Just got a Garmin Edge 500 for my bike. My husband thinks it is for him, but I got him the 800 since he will be going off in the woods and on trails and such. I bought the 500 for me in order to replace the FR60 I've been using so I can map my route and see what my elevation is while I'm training for this crazy event. I can't wait to take it outside, however, that will have to wait until March/April time frame as we already have snow/ice on the ground

Anyone else have th 500 or 800? Any tips/tricks that you learn that are not in the instruction manual?

Hey Kids,

Ron is getting ready to launch the 2013 Mentor program soon.  This group will be archived, and we'll be adding some new members for 1st quarter.  Of course, everyone here is already in for 2013 if you want to be.  Also, if you have another mentor group you'd like to join I have NO problem whatsoever with you guys doing that.  My buddy Dave (Oriolepwr) has a great group, so does my friend Quincy (QuincyF).  I'd love to have you all back but I totally get if you'd like to "spread your wings" so to speak.

I'll let you know a day or two in advance when the new groups open up.

Mariah,

I don't have either one.  I used the 305 for many years, then I had the 310.  I switched to the Timex Ironman this year and I love it.  You might want to ask over in the Equipment forum.  I'm sure Mark is psyched to be getting an 800!  Enjoy!

I agree!

Ditto - this group is great as we follow our fearless leader into the glorious unkonwn in training.

Oh Mariah, you are silly  

You are qualified to be your own mentor, but I'd kill for you to be in my group again!

I found this quote tonight on Athlinks.  It's pithy, yet profound.  

Stop limiting yourself, stop making excuses, get rid of that artificial anchor you carry. You wouldn't let anyone else do that to you. Why do it to yourself?