rollers: advice please

edindevon

For anyone who hasn't notice you can currently get the Elite Arion Parabolic Rollers for £112.49 at Halfords once the 25% is applied.

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_891581_langId_-1_categoryId_229901

Edindevon

ariege_cyclist

Herbsman wrote:

Worst advice ever. I have the melted roller to prove it

Maybe a bit strong, I can think of plenty worse advice I could have given (and probably have over the years)

You must put out a LOT more power than me, because even after hour sessions at close to my FTP the rear roller is only warm (about as warm as something would get leaning near to a radiatior but not touching it), and I wouldn't expect candle wax to melt at this temperature, let alone a reasonable grade polymer.

The trick is to not set the resistance too high, still rely on the natural resistance in the rollers (from the tyres mainly) to do most of the work and let the carpet to just add the required extra load, so you still have to spin in a high gear. If you are able to push high powers in a low gear then there's too much load on the rear roller = heat build up.

I also only use my rollers outside when it's cool (or I'd be riding my bike on the road), and have a big fan, so there is plenty of cooling on the roller. After about 3 years of this practice I've not noticed any warping or melting of the roller.

moscowflyer

dave35 wrote:

Minouras are good, bang on your budget
http://www.mailordercycles.com/m2b23s14 ... LERS/RS_GB
.

What's the difference between those and the cheaper 'Advance' model? Or are they just the same product, but just look different?

http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Mode ... elID=75274

Sprool

So I've had the Elite Arions for about 5 days now, managing 1/2 hr in the morning and another 30 - 40 mins in the evening. Because its quite intense, no stops for lights or traffic, or getting out of the saddle for a climb, I'm finding it a really good work out. Went out for a ride today and I really noticed the difference with much smoother pedal technique and power, even after this short time its helped my stamina and efficiency. It only took a couple of sessions before I could do 20 - 30 mins without tipping over, now I'm able to keep control one handed and reaching for the water bottle. I've been running some pretty basic intervals, 5 mins coasting then 1 - 2 mins in top gear as hard as possible, then cool back down and repeat every time a track ends on the CD.

moscowflyer

I've decided to go for rollers over a turbo, just got to decide between the CycleOps Aluminium or the Minoura Action rollers. About £40 difference in the price, both seem to get good reviews though. I guess it depends if I feel I may need an additional resistance unit at any time.

Sprool

if the extra £40 is within your budget then go for the ability to add resistance (without an old strip of carpet)

moscowflyer

Ok, plumped for the CycleOps, one last set on Wiggle and I found a £40 off voucher. Will have them by Thursday!

Sprool

cool, good luck and find a friendly doorway to start!

noaddedsugar

i went for cycleops alu with resistance. good price here £244
http://activesport.co.uk/shop/article_7 ... ainer.html