How to Make a Road Bike a Stationary Bike
There are many reasons for making a road bike into a stationary bike. A stationary bike is a great way to take advantage of the physical benefits of cycling, even when time constraints, weather or other conditions prevent outdoor cycling. Stationary bikes are also commonly used by professional cyclists to warm up before and cool down after a race or event. With the right tools and materials and an afternoon of work, you can make a stationary bike.
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Instructions
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Purchase a cycle trainer from a bike shop or sporting goods store. A cycle trainer is the key element in making a road bike stationary. The cycle trainer has a small wheel upon which the rear wheel of the road bike sits. When the bike is pedaled, the rear wheel spins against the wheel of the cycle trainer, and no forward movement is produced.
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Attach the road bike to the cycle trainer. For the most basic trainers, the bike will sit on the wheel of the trainer and the two stabilizing arms of the trainer will bolt into the dropouts where the rear wheel mounts to the bike frame. More expensive models may require the installation of a cycle computer or heart rate monitor.
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Add optional components to the stationary bike to enhance the experience. Compensate for the added height of the rear wheel that is sitting on the cycle trainer by placing a secure object, such as a custom-cut wooden block, under the front wheel. Mount a clipboard onto the handlebars to hold reading material. Place a carpet square under the rear wheel to minimize the vibrations caused by pedaling the stationary bike. Set up a fan facing the bike to keep yourself cool.
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Tips & Warnings
Before making a road bike a stationary bike, take the bike to be tuned and cleaned.
Ensure that the stationary bike is properly mounted and stable before using it.
References
- Photo Credit Young man on exercise bike image by Elzbieta Sekowska from Fotolia.com
