Not all bicyclists have the advantage of living in a place that has year round riding weather. But the off-season is no time to let your cycling endurance fade. Indoor trainers are excellent options if you want to stay in tip-top bicycling shape.
Resistance Trainers
Resistance trainers use fluid or magnet resistance wheels to slow down your bike wheel. Resistance trainers function by attaching to the rear hub of your bicycle and engaging the resistance wheel to press against your rear tire. Magnetic resistance trainers offer constant resistance training, while fluid resistance trainers offer dynamic resistance. On a fluid trainer, the harder you pedal, the more resistance you experience. Fluid and magnetic trainers are the most expensive types of indoor trainers, but they offer excellent training options for those that want to ride indoors.
Rollers
Rollers are the simplest and most affordable type of trainer. Rather than attaching to the bike, rollers sit on the floor and have the bike placed on top of them. Unlike resistance trainers, rollers require you to balance while you ride. This creates a more realistic indoor training experience, but it does take some practice to get the hang of it. If you are inexperienced, rollers are probably not your best option.
Damage
Indoor bicycle trainers are designed to hold your bike as carefully as possible, without damaging the frame or any of the components. However, increased wear and tear is a reality for indoor trainers, especially resistance trainers. Because resistance trainers only move your rear wheel, your rear tire will wear faster than your front. Clamping a resistance trainer to tightly to your rear hub can compress and damage your bearings. If you chose a resistance trainer, consider a rear training wheel only used on the trainer.
Considerations
Choosing the best indoor trainer for you requires considerations on your style of riding. If you frequently switch between indoor and outdoor riding, consider rollers for their quick setup and realistic riding experience. If your bike stays indoors for most of the off-season, a resistance roller is an excellent option. Always set a mat down on the floor where your indoor trainer is set up. This will collect any sweat that drips on the floor and any movement of the trainer that might scratch or damage the floor.
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