With winter clearly on its way, indoor training is a great alternative to keep working on your fitness and having fun. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cyclist, it’s important to choose the right trainer based on your goals and your experience on a bike. This guide will help you distinguish the specific features of each type of trainer according to the different models and accessories for a complete workout.
Roller trainers
The main feature of this type of trainer is its continuous motion. For cyclists, this setup gives you the same feeling as riding outdoors. Keeping your cadence and maintaining speed are two important factors for anyone who wants realism in their training. The Tacx Antares, Tacx Galaxia and Elite Arion three-roller systems are entry-level models. There are also rollers with magnetic resistance levels that make the experience more realistic, such as the Elite Nero, Elite Arion Mag and Elite Quick Motion.
What we like
- Requires no wiring or electrical outlet
- Improves fitness
- Similar feel to riding outdoors
- Detachable for easy storage and transport
What to consider
- Requires coordination and concentration
- Less practical for high-intensity training
- Recommended for advanced cyclists
Direct-drive trainers
If you’re looking for a trainer that’s easy to use and high-performing, a direct-drive model is the perfect stand for your high-intensity or sprint sessions. Just remove the rear wheel and connect the cassette to your bike to get the same feel as riding outdoors. When using it, there is virtually no energy loss while allowing maximum power. The available models are also very quiet, which many users will appreciate, including the new JetBlack Victory line.
What we like
- Professional-level durability
- Facile à installer
- Compatible with virtual trainers
- Quiet operation
What to consider
- More expensive
- Some models require an additional cassette
- Training mat (optional)
Interactive trainer
This product was designed for cyclists who want to follow a long-term training plan and makes it easy to turn your road or mountain bike into a powerful smart indoor training system. The Tacx Flow Smart and Wahoo Kickr Smart are two electromagnetic-resistance trainers that provide a stable base so you can train with confidence. They can be connected to a virtual cycling simulator that displays speed, cadence and power while you pedal, giving you a more interactive experience.
Among the high-end products, the Wahoo Kickr, Tacx Neo 2T and Elite Directo XR are the ones we recommend for cyclists who want a realistic pedaling feel and maximum resistance, along with a road-like riding sensation.
As for more affordable models, the Elite Suito, Wahoo Kickr Core and Elite Zumo are very popular with cyclists of all levels. They offer a lower maximum resistance in watts and a slightly less robust cassette body, but are still highly capable.
What we like
- Interactive training system
- Mid-range price
- Stable base
What to consider
- Noise and vibration
- Add a training mat (optional)
Basic trainer with mechanical or fluid resistance
This type of standard trainer offers a range of products at affordable prices for cyclists who want to combine efficiency and simplicity for indoor training. There are two types of resistance—mechanical or fluid—depending on the intensity of the workout. Mechanical resistance provides higher intensity and linear resistance, as found on the Saris Mag+ model. Fluid trainers, on the other hand, provide cyclists with progressive resistance that “warms up the engine” with every pedal stroke and ensures a quieter ride. When using them, we recommend tires specifically designed for indoor use so you don’t damage your road tires. The Elite Qubo Fluid and Saris Fluid 2 trainers are compatible with tires designed for this type of trainer.
What we like
- Affordable prices
- Easy to transport
- Steady training
What to consider
- An indoor training tire
- A front wheel block
- A training mat (optional)
Complementary accessories
Trainer tires
When using a basic trainer, it’s recommended to use a tire specifically designed for indoor use, as it offers better grip than a standard tire and increases the lifespan of the trainer. Their special rubber minimizes the risk of overheating, wear and tears while reducing noise and vibrations. Note that these tires are not suitable for use on the road or on trails.
Carrying bag
When it’s time to store or move your trainer, Tacx offers sturdy, waterproof bags that protect all your equipment properly. They’re even equipped with wheels and a handle to make transport easier and ensure optimal protection.
Training mats
During your training sessions, using a mat is essential to protect your floors, while also reducing and absorbing noise.
Front wheel block
This block is designed to allow the front wheel to turn naturally and provide a more realistic feel. Can be used with tires up to 57c and with all types of wheels or direct-drive trainers.
Tablet mount
Virtual cycling simulators such as Zwift, Tacx Cycling and Wahoo Fitness are used for indoor training and offer an impressive level of realism. They can easily be downloaded to a tablet or iPad, which can sit on your bike using a mount that attaches directly to it or stands on the floor, keeping the device safe from sweat during your workouts.
