Bike Trainer Information
A bike trainer is a stand that elevates the rear wheel of an outdoor bike off the ground for indoor training. The trainer has an adjustable roller that tightens against the bike's rear wheel to provide resistance.
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Wind Trainers
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On wind trainers, the resistance roller spins a fan. The air resistance on the fan blades provides pedaling resistance. Wind trainers are the most inexpensive---and noisiest---trainer option.
Magnetic Trainers
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"Mag" trainers use a series of magnets to provide resistance. More expensive models have extra features, such as variable resistance based on pedaling speed.
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Fluid Trainers
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Fluid trainers provide hydraulic resistance based on how fast the wheel is spinning. Fluid trainers are the most expensive and quietest non-computerized trainer option.
Computerized Trainers
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Computerized trainers---magnetic trainers that hook up to your computer---are the most sophisticated trainer option. Computerized trainers provide interactive course videos, programmable workouts, pedal stroke analysis and power measurements.
Other Equipment
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Trainers are hard on tire rubber, so use thick, flat-resistant tires. Put a wheel stand or a phone book under the front wheel to level the bike.
Bike Computers
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If you use a bike computer, your speed readouts will be significantly faster indoors than on the road because there is no wind resistance to overcome.
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