Perfect Turbo Training Environment Facility
Roubaixsl3
Posts: 48
Having been training on the turbo now for some five years (TrainerRoad) I have gradually perfected my setup in such a way that I have no reasons to not train, and actually now look forward to it. I think one of the main issues that put people off is the hassle factor of either setting up in the garage or shed or wherever you can find a space in the house/flat and even then trying not to disturb others with the noise or being distracted by kids etc. Anyway this got me thinking and I would appreciate some feedback on this. Would people be willing to pay to use the latest smart trainers and/or smart bikes, set up in the ideal training environment where you can use whatever system you prefer (TrainerRoad/Zwift etc.). The intention would be for you to have the least possible hassle allowing you to train more effectively plus you would not need to fork out a small fortune for the equipment. There would not be any classes, just an environment for you to train in whichever way you prefer. You could drop off your bike for example on the way to work so that it is ready for you to train when you arrive. Your bike could even be stored for you longer term and you just book a slot and your bike would be set up when you arrive. Equipment would be set up in individual zones with no other visual distractions, complete with large screen, remotely controlled fans, cradles for phones/tablets etc. Basically everything you need so that you can just concentrate on the efforts. You could pay a monthly membership or just pay for individual sessions, depending on your training regime. Any comments would be appreciated, I've had this idea for some time now but never asked anyone who "understands" the effectiveness of turbo training.
Thanks,
Robin
Thanks,
Robin
0
Comments
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For me the main advantage of turbo training is that it is free (well, except for Zwift or trainer road subscription) and I don’t need to leave the house (so I can start whenever I choose AND babysit the kids while I do it), so you plan wouldn’t appeal to me.
However, if I didn’t already have a set up, didn’t already pay a subscription, didn’t have kids and your facilities were within 5 minute walk of either my house or work (and a session was cheap) then I might be tempted.0 -
The beauty of turbo training for me is that I don’t have to leave my house.Insta: ATEnduranceCoaching
ABCC Cycling Coach0 -
Thanks guys. Admittedly it probably wouldn't appeal to those already set up at home unless there's an issue preventing them from training effectively. Often the very fact that it is at home is the reason why it doesn't get used regularly due to family commitments. I guess it's like exercise bikes and rowing machines, plenty of these are dumped in the garage due to lack of use, although I'm aiming this at an entirely different demographic from those that just want to "get fit" or lose weight. Appreciate the comments.0
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I'm pretty certain dc rainmaker said that Wahoo had developed studio suite software for the kickr so gyms could run classes. So you might be behind the game.
Tbh I think this idea would really struggle for a start up business.
First of all how many riders in your area are in need of this service? What would you do during the summer months when most riders will be outdoor training?
The outlay for multiple smart trainers, equipment and licensing would be very pricey and would take considerable time (years) to recoup that.
Then you have the cost of the premises. It wouldn't just be a room for the turbo trainers, it would also likely require showers and changing facilities.
Not to mention the cost of staff.
Also if folk drop bikes off earlier in the day how will you secure the bike?? So insurance and security costs on top.
Plus I think the idea of a perfect training environment isn't really difficult. Its not exactly rocket science setting up a smart trainer (and connecting to whatever online app you want), mat, sweat net, fan, tv etc. Most end up having a pain cave so can leave everything set up anyway.
Don't mean to p on your bonfire but i think you would really struggle with this idea.0 -
The ‘sports cyclist market’ is still a very niche small market, in comparison to a lot of the ‘leisure market’ ( gyms etc), the amount of those that bother with turbo trainers and the like, is even smaller. When I set up my last business, a few years ago, doing something very similar to what you’ve described there ( but with some extra U.S.Ps ) I only got the banks to agree to invest, with some pretty harsh conditions, and a bucket load of collateral. The Death Valley curve on this one, was probably the longest and steepest I’ve ever experienced, but thanks in no small part to a sterling job from my marketing bods, and my network of contacts and suppliers, giving me more grace, and favourable ‘mates rates’ on credit lines, it became profitable within 3 years. It’s never going to set the world alight, in its present form, but if I do ever decide to push this one on, there is scope for setting up a franchising structure. All of my clever contacts, who can do smart stuff with computer models / financial projections, are convinced that this will never get legs ( in this country at least) based on data available to them.0
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Milemuncher1 wrote:The ‘sports cyclist market’ is still a very niche small market, in comparison to a lot of the ‘leisure market’ ( gyms etc), the amount of those that bother with turbo trainers and the like, is even smaller. When I set up my last business, a few years ago, doing something very similar to what you’ve described there ( but with some extra U.S.Ps ) I only got the banks to agree to invest, with some pretty harsh conditions, and a bucket load of collateral. The Death Valley curve on this one, was probably the longest and steepest I’ve ever experienced, but thanks in no small part to a sterling job from my marketing bods, and my network of contacts and suppliers, giving me more grace, and favourable ‘mates rates’ on credit lines, it became profitable within 3 years. It’s never going to set the world alight, in its present form, but if I do ever decide to push this one on, there is scope for setting up a franchising structure. All of my clever contacts, who can do smart stuff with computer models / financial projections, are convinced that this will never get legs ( in this country at least) based on data available to them.
Do you have a link to your business website?0 -
A drop in spin bikes place using Watt bikes and instructors opened a couple of miles from me in a wealthy high cycling area.
It closed 6 months later.Postby team47b » Sun Jun 28, 2015 11:53 am
De Sisti wrote:
This is one of the silliest threads I've come across.
Recognition at last Matthew, well done!, a justified honoursmithy21 wrote:
He's right you know.0 -
Brakeless wrote:Milemuncher1 wrote:The ‘sports cyclist market’ is still a very niche small market, in comparison to a lot of the ‘leisure market’ ( gyms etc), the amount of those that bother with turbo trainers and the like, is even smaller. When I set up my last business, a few years ago, doing something very similar to what you’ve described there ( but with some extra U.S.Ps ) I only got the banks to agree to invest, with some pretty harsh conditions, and a bucket load of collateral. The Death Valley curve on this one, was probably the longest and steepest I’ve ever experienced, but thanks in no small part to a sterling job from my marketing bods, and my network of contacts and suppliers, giving me more grace, and favourable ‘mates rates’ on credit lines, it became profitable within 3 years. It’s never going to set the world alight, in its present form, but if I do ever decide to push this one on, there is scope for setting up a franchising structure. All of my clever contacts, who can do smart stuff with computer models / financial projections, are convinced that this will never get legs ( in this country at least) based on data available to them.
Do you have a link to your business website?
Don't hold your breath - but in the meantime, there is this...Milemuncher1 wrote:I absolutely refuse to use a stationary bike of any description, unless it’s for purposes of setting a bike up, after a major maintenance job or two.0 -
Food for thought. I guess it will just remain a pipe dream. It would need country wide coverage to generate sufficient income, probably not a good idea as a small business.0
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There is money to be made out of the virtual riding environment, just not in the model you have described.
It is in its infancy but platforms like Zwift are driving it onwards 'at a rate'.
There was a 'world cup' in Paris this autumn and another in LA in the spring.... if there was no money to be made, then it wouldnt be happening. I would admit that in 5 years time, there could be a sizeable market of "riders" who actually would never dare to put rubber to actual tarmac.0 -
Imposter wrote:Brakeless wrote:Milemuncher1 wrote:The ‘sports cyclist market’ is still a very niche small market, in comparison to a lot of the ‘leisure market’ ( gyms etc), the amount of those that bother with turbo trainers and the like, is even smaller. When I set up my last business, a few years ago, doing something very similar to what you’ve described there ( but with some extra U.S.Ps ) I only got the banks to agree to invest, with some pretty harsh conditions, and a bucket load of collateral. The Death Valley curve on this one, was probably the longest and steepest I’ve ever experienced, but thanks in no small part to a sterling job from my marketing bods, and my network of contacts and suppliers, giving me more grace, and favourable ‘mates rates’ on credit lines, it became profitable within 3 years. It’s never going to set the world alight, in its present form, but if I do ever decide to push this one on, there is scope for setting up a franchising structure. All of my clever contacts, who can do smart stuff with computer models / financial projections, are convinced that this will never get legs ( in this country at least) based on data available to them.
Do you have a link to your business website?
Don't hold your breath - but in the meantime, there is this...Milemuncher1 wrote:I absolutely refuse to use a stationary bike of any description, unless it’s for purposes of setting a bike up, after a major maintenance job or two.
HAHAHAHA, so never uses a stationary bike but he set up as business for them? Hmmm, something smells fishy...0 -
If you're not somewhere like London then I don't see it working. You need to catch the Alpha people who want to train before work or in their lunch or after work.
Outside of the city population isn't dense enough and anyone wanting to turbo probable has a garage or shed or spare room.
Having to drop a Bike off would be a pita. I'd not do that but I'm happy turboing most days. One bike is on there almost permanently and I can be on it and riding within a few minutes of deciding I want to.
I can't see this one working I'm afraid.0 -
Like I said, it probably wouldn't appeal to existing turbo diehards (of which I would class myself as one (511 TR sessions to date and currently on week 6 of sweet spot base). However for someone new to indoor training it may appeal. Even so the business model may not stand up to scrutinisation therefore it's likely a non starter. All comments gratefully appreciated.0
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Matthewfalle wrote:A drop in spin bikes place using Watt bikes and instructors opened a couple of miles from me in a wealthy high cycling area.
It closed 6 months later.
That’s no surprise. It really is like making bespoke suits for one legged dwarves. Volume is never going to happen, so you need good targeted marketing, and a massive pair of cojones, a sympathetic bank, and a lot of luck. If you set up in the wrong place, at the wrong time, you’re gone, there’s no room for sentiment.0 -
Roubaixsl3 wrote:Like I said, it probably wouldn't appeal to existing turbo diehards (of which I would class myself as one (511 TR sessions to date and currently on week 6 of sweet spot base). However for someone new to indoor training it may appeal. Even so the business model may not stand up to scrutinisation therefore it's likely a non starter. All comments gratefully appreciated.
Find a USP, add that in, you may get it off the ground. The best place to pick up on ideas for a USP, are cycle clubs / groups. It may just be a throw away comment, from one rider ( the ‘nugget’ I found certainly was ) and it might gain traction.0 -
cougie wrote:If you're not somewhere like London then I don't see it working. You need to catch the Alpha people who want to train before work or in their lunch or after work.
Outside of the city population isn't dense enough and anyone wanting to turbo probable has a garage or shed or spare room.
Having to drop a Bike off would be a pita. I'd not do that but I'm happy turboing most days. One bike is on there almost permanently and I can be on it and riding within a few minutes of deciding I want to.
I can't see this one working I'm afraid.
All of what you said there is spot on. The business fundamental principles of people in the organisation, and organisation in it’s environment are king here. The bike drop off, is not just a PITA, but an expensive PITA, which is open to all sorts of abuse, should you not Police it appropriately.0 -
Milemuncher1 wrote:Roubaixsl3 wrote:Like I said, it probably wouldn't appeal to existing turbo diehards (of which I would class myself as one (511 TR sessions to date and currently on week 6 of sweet spot base). However for someone new to indoor training it may appeal. Even so the business model may not stand up to scrutinisation therefore it's likely a non starter. All comments gratefully appreciated.
Find a USP, add that in, you may get it off the ground. The best place to pick up on ideas for a USP, are cycle clubs / groups. It may just be a throw away comment, from one rider ( the ‘nugget’ I found certainly was ) and it might gain traction.
What “nugget” did you find?Postby team47b » Sun Jun 28, 2015 11:53 am
De Sisti wrote:
This is one of the silliest threads I've come across.
Recognition at last Matthew, well done!, a justified honoursmithy21 wrote:
He's right you know.0 -
Milemuncher1 wrote:Matthewfalle wrote:A drop in spin bikes place using Watt bikes and instructors opened a couple of miles from me in a wealthy high cycling area.
It closed 6 months later.
That’s no surprise. It really is like making bespoke suits for one legged dwarves. Volume is never going to happen, so you need good targeted marketing, and a massive pair of cojones, a sympathetic bank, and a lot of luck. If you set up in the wrong place, at the wrong time, you’re gone, there’s no room for sentiment.
'Massive cojones' - would that be a bit like a load of boll0cks ?0 -
Love the way Milemuncher just presses on regardless, despite being called out as a walt again... 0
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SurferCyclist wrote:Imposter wrote:Brakeless wrote:Milemuncher1 wrote:The ‘sports cyclist market’ is still a very niche small market, in comparison to a lot of the ‘leisure market’ ( gyms etc), the amount of those that bother with turbo trainers and the like, is even smaller. When I set up my last business, a few years ago, doing something very similar to what you’ve described there ( but with some extra U.S.Ps ) I only got the banks to agree to invest, with some pretty harsh conditions, and a bucket load of collateral. The Death Valley curve on this one, was probably the longest and steepest I’ve ever experienced, but thanks in no small part to a sterling job from my marketing bods, and my network of contacts and suppliers, giving me more grace, and favourable ‘mates rates’ on credit lines, it became profitable within 3 years. It’s never going to set the world alight, in its present form, but if I do ever decide to push this one on, there is scope for setting up a franchising structure. All of my clever contacts, who can do smart stuff with computer models / financial projections, are convinced that this will never get legs ( in this country at least) based on data available to them.
Do you have a link to your business website?
Don't hold your breath - but in the meantime, there is this...Milemuncher1 wrote:I absolutely refuse to use a stationary bike of any description, unless it’s for purposes of setting a bike up, after a major maintenance job or two.
HAHAHAHA, so never uses a stationary bike but he set up as business for them? Hmmm, something smells fishy...
Not at all, I don’t bother with them, but if there’s an opportunity to make money, you’d be monumentally daft to ignore it. I know lots of trawlermen, who don’t eat fish, but they know what side their bread is buttered on. It certainly isn’t “for them” they are a small part of it, and really only ever there to bring people in, they are the ‘hole in the bucket’ a loss leader, and can’t be carried for a lot longer.0 -
Matthewfalle wrote:Milemuncher1 wrote:Roubaixsl3 wrote:Like I said, it probably wouldn't appeal to existing turbo diehards (of which I would class myself as one (511 TR sessions to date and currently on week 6 of sweet spot base). However for someone new to indoor training it may appeal. Even so the business model may not stand up to scrutinisation therefore it's likely a non starter. All comments gratefully appreciated.
Find a USP, add that in, you may get it off the ground. The best place to pick up on ideas for a USP, are cycle clubs / groups. It may just be a throw away comment, from one rider ( the ‘nugget’ I found certainly was ) and it might gain traction.
What “nugget” did you find?
The main one involved a deal with an e bike battery supplier.
That came from a throw away comment from a guy I ride with regularly. There was another one, which saved my bacon massively, and came from a comment about the lack of a particular facility with every coffee stop / Cafe, she had ever stopped at.0 -
Milemuncher1 wrote:Matthewfalle wrote:Milemuncher1 wrote:Roubaixsl3 wrote:Like I said, it probably wouldn't appeal to existing turbo diehards (of which I would class myself as one (511 TR sessions to date and currently on week 6 of sweet spot base). However for someone new to indoor training it may appeal. Even so the business model may not stand up to scrutinisation therefore it's likely a non starter. All comments gratefully appreciated.
Find a USP, add that in, you may get it off the ground. The best place to pick up on ideas for a USP, are cycle clubs / groups. It may just be a throw away comment, from one rider ( the ‘nugget’ I found certainly was ) and it might gain traction.
What “nugget” did you find?
The main one involved a deal with an e bike battery supplier.
That came from a throw away comment from a guy I ride with regularly. There was another one, which saved my bacon massively, and came from a comment about the lack of a particular facility with every coffee stop / Cafe, she had ever stopped at.
I'm still waiting for a link to your business website.0 -
by Milemuncher1
12 Feb 2016 19:25
I always fall about laughing when I see people on a turbo. They look like hamsters on a wheel. I've only ever used a turbo to set a bike up after major maintainance. And that usually involves about 10 minutes on the thing.
There was this one too. Seems a funny business to get into when you can't help but laugh at your customers.0 -
Thankfully I leave mine permanently set up so I don't have to go about fitting the bike to the trainer every time I want to ride. Which is good as the chimp side of my brain is always shouting at me to sit down and have another biscuit rather than ride so I have issues with the time it takes to get on the bike. Still; there's still enough hassle with getting my kit on, starting up Zwift choosing routes etc.0
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Milemuncher1 wrote:I know lots of trawlermen, who don’t eat fish, but they know what side their bread is buttered on.
Holy Mackerel, this completely cracked me up. How many Trawlermen do you know?
Aren't you the guy who didn't understand cadence, and was insistent that you never pedalled above 40rpm? And the same one who couldn't configure uploads to Strava without creating duplicate rides?0 -
Harry-S wrote:Milemuncher1 wrote:I know lots of trawlermen, Holy Mackerel, this completely cracked me up. How many Trawlermen do you know?
I cant help but think there is a seaman joke somewhere in here0 -
fat daddy wrote:Harry-S wrote:Milemuncher1 wrote:I know lots of trawlermen, Holy Mackerel, this completely cracked me up. How many Trawlermen do you know?
I cant help but think there is a seaman joke somewhere in here
This isn't the plaice for it.0 -
Harry-S wrote:Milemuncher1 wrote:I know lots of trawlermen, who don’t eat fish, but they know what side their bread is buttered on.
Holy Mackerel, this completely cracked me up. How many Trawlermen do you know?
Aren't you the guy who didn't understand cadence, and was insistent that you never pedalled above 40rpm? And the same one who couldn't configure uploads to Strava without creating duplicate rides?
yep!0 -
https://www.cycling-club-aubonne.ch/ bit of a hike from the UK but seems to be what you're interested in. Connected with local shop (ver high end) and bike fitting/ coaching centre.0
