Turbo Trainers + MTB?

Klis

Hey all,

I'm fairly new to these forums and I am looking for some solid (and general) advise on the following subject

Firstly, I have just had to move due to work commitments and unfortunately, the area isn't exactly great for riding. Mainly because there are no routes available and security reasons lol.

I cycle to work and am able to lock the bike up there, but I would like to add that little bit extra to my training. Hopefully I can sus that by purchasing a Turbo trainer?

Ok, so.... I have always had this notion that Turbo Trainers are ONLY for Road Bikes? But I have heard differently mainly from the odd thread on this forum. So can people please confirm here that yes they can be used, or if they need adapting... Or if its out of the question and what I read was dis-info lol xD

The trainer that I was looking at is fairly standard, but is also highly recommend apparently.

CycleOps from Wiggle

And as for my bike, well, I tried looking for a link, but as its kinda old I can't find one

But its a GT Avalanche 1.0 back from 2005/6? I also haven't upgraded it, so everything is standard. Why fix it if it isn't broke? :P

The wheels are 26" and according to Wiggle that should be ok?

Aside from the technicals, are there any other budget trainers out there? And if you have the one above... Pros and cons?

Any other thoughts are welcome - Bias or not, as long as they are genuine (i.e. you actually have a turbo trainer)

Thanks in advance and sorry for the sluggish read :P

Klis

P.s. I was hoping to order today or tomorrow...bad timing given that its Easter hols... But the sooner I get it the better really

Mytchett Mike

Firstly, the trainer you are looking at works on the tyre and so you will want a separate smooth tyre/wheel to use on it.

You could look at Minoura RDA 850 that works on the rim. I used one of these one winter before deciding I'd rather be freezing cold & wet but outside really cycling.

Secondly, it's boring.

Thirdly, get a fan to cool yourself and put your bike on a mat to catch the sweat.

Fourthly, it's boring.

Fifthly, seriously consider whether you CAN ride locally or get somewhere easily where you can.

I know a couple of people who use them on a regular basis but they have a tv with spinning programs to "run" against.

Mike

Klis

Not to concerned about the boredom factor to be honest Its surely going to be better then doing nothing :roll:

As for the tyre, even though mine is 26" it isn going to work?

JasonRwmb

The Cyclops trainers work fine on 26" or road wheels.

However as Mike says you will need to use a different rear tyre. If you use a normal nobbly mtb one it will be very noisy and lumpy to ride. You could use a slick road tyre, that way it would work for your ride to work, and on the turbo - however the best option is really a special turbo trainer tyre. Try to avoid a set up where you have to switch tyres just to use the turbo as you will find you never use it.

The trainer Mike has mentioned could be worth a look.

I have a Cyclops fluid trainer and they are a quality make. Certainly better than the Tacx one I had before.

JasonRwmb

The one you are looking at is 'slightly' cheaper here :

http://www.cyclesportsuk.co.uk/product_ ... ts_id=2969

although you need to spend another £3.01 to get a further 10% off.

Klis

Ok guys, well thanks for the help and advise

As I am on a budget I think I shall just stick with something that is sub 100, normally I choose quality over price :P But seemingly it has been given awards and great reviews.

I was thinking of sticking with Wiggle has they gave me an extra fiver off when I signed up to their news letter.
That said, if I get a new rear tire from Cycle sports, combined the price is far more efficient
My only concern is that Cyclesports website says that it was last updated (or warranted) in 2006 :shock: Hmmm.... Are they reputable?

Klis

JasonRwmb

I have bought a few bits from Cyclesports in the past and can't fault their service. Whatever I have ordered has always turned up the next day, plus there discount system is much better than Wiggle's. However their webpage could definitely be improved.