Computrainer vs. Normal Trainer with DVDs

You might want to take a look at what DCRainmaker has to say about high end trainers.  He likes some of the other ones out there for features, usability etc. 

Myself, I would like to have a high end trainer like one of those, but stick with a cheap fluid trainer, my iPod, TV, and some DVDs.  If money were no object, I'd go with something else, but since it remains an object . . .

I have a used $80 mag trainer, Sufferfest and Jorge's winter program and a pretty good collection of music on my ipod...worked last winter.

I may consider trainerroad this winter but, if not, Ill be back in the lab again with the above.

I would rather go with a fluid trainer and a powermeter. Don't get me wrong. The computrainer is an awesome tool and I would go with that over your suggestion of a trainer and vids, but would rather have power available once you can get outside.

If you already have a HRM, and a ANT+ compatible speed/cadence sensor, check out trainerroad.com  I just started using it and find it much better than just using DVDs.  Has some training plans, lots of workouts, and is compatible with the Sufferfest video series as well. It gives you the ability to train by HR or virtual power if you don't have a power meter and you have a computrainer like interface for feedback.

At $10/mo it seems like a bargain to me.

There is so much more to a computrainer than just the course videos.  The beauty of the computrainer is being able to exactly control load and effort....in a more consistent manner than you can with your average trainer.  ESPECIALLY if you don't have a powermeter on your bike the CT can be a GREAT stopgap...you can train with power without having the power meter.

I've had my CT since 2006 and I don't know if I could ever go back to a regular trainer....

I have a Tacx trainer that is similar to a Computrainer.  Personally, I wouldn't be able to ride a regular trainer anymore because I've been spoiled.  Riding through France, Spain, etc., and having the trainer adjust the gradient while you watch the scenery and see your data is as close to outdoor riding as you can get.

Plus you can setup all the structured stuff like trainerroad or the CT offers in the Tacx software.  Just another brand to consider.

Not to hijack, but... (and it's related, for sure)

If I have a quarg crank power meter and a CO (can't remember if it's mag or fluid - I think mag... haven't given up on outside yet so haven't looked at it since last year), what would be the best set up?

CT changing the resistance and the scenery is cool, but there must be something to make the above set up more than just a suffer-machine.  Should I just take my road workouts and hit those power/cadence combos indoors while grooving to the various iThings, or is there a better setup?

Thanks!

I bought a used CT and couldn't imagine my workouts without it.  I pretty much exclusively use erg mode either through Jorge's winter plan, Sufferfest videos, or Erg video.  I've recently gotten Perfpro studio as I found it to be a better alternative than Trainerroad (I hate monthly fees).  It integrates perfectly with sufferfest videos (and it's fun to get a small group together for a ride).