Turbo Trainers - which one do I need?

stick_man
stick_man Posts: 43
edited November 2009 in Road buying advice
I want to buy a turbo trainer but it's apparent that there are a number of different types out there and there's a big difference in prices! Please suggest which one I should get - these are my basic requirements, in no particular order:

1) Max £200-ish.
2) Quiet
3) Similar feel to actual road riding
4) Plenty of resistance for a big rider
5) Sturdy & durable.

I've also read that you can attach powertap devices to the trainer - what does this involve and how much does it cost?

Thanks.

Comments

  • amaferanga
    amaferanga Posts: 6,789
    In October's C+ there was a turbo trainer test and for your budget the Elite Crono Fluid came out on top. I have the digital wireless version that has a digital display, but the trainer itself is the same AFAIK. Its fairly quiet, fairly road-like, but no turbo trainer is really goign to replicate riding on the road. I think you'll find plenty of resistance is available on almost any trainer by chainging gear (e.g. a 39/12 gear at 120rpm is >500 Watts on my trainer).

    You can buy a Powertap system as its just a wheel with a head unit that'll work on any trainer, but they're damn expensive (even used ones).
    More problems but still living....
  • Nuggs
    Nuggs Posts: 1,804
    Take a look at the Cycleops Jet Fluid Pro - you may be able to find one for below £200.

    It's certainly quiet, well-built, realistic and offers good resistance for the larger rider.

    However, it is also boring as hell to use (but I don't think that's specific to the model! :wink: )...
  • cakewalk
    cakewalk Posts: 220
    I been using a fairly bog standard TT for the last couple of years.

    it got stuck on '10' (hardest resistance) 18 months ago. This made training much simpler and more productive. I simply alter the resistance by changing gear. This makes it much easier to compare performance between training sessions (for same time if you have clocked up more miles then you have worked harder).

    Borrowed a mates all singing/all dancing one a few weeks ag. Pants. Too much to think about.

    TT are dull. Training hurts. Spending more money does not alter these two facts.

    I would however recomend that you get a heart rate monitor and can measure cadence and distance whilst on the TT.
    "I thought of it while riding my bicycle."
  • hopper1
    hopper1 Posts: 4,389
    Nuggs wrote:
    Take a look at the Cycleops Jet Fluid Pro - you may be able to find one for below £200.

    It's certainly quiet, well-built, realistic and offers good resistance for the larger rider.

    However, it is also boring as hell to use (but I don't think that's specific to the model! :wink: )...

    +1 for the CycleOps Fluid 2, I have one and I love it.... Well, erm...well, you know what I mean... :oops:
    Start with a budget, finish with a mortgage!

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