Rollers Better, Costlier For Indoor Biking

Sun., Aug. 1, 1999

Dear Gear Guy: What are the differences between a wind trainer and rollers for indoor bike usage? What is best and won’t damage my bike?

Ann Dunaway, New York, New York Gear Guy: Good questions.

Basically, a wind trainer (or one that uses magnetic or fluid resistance) is a metal frame that clamps onto the bike, usually at the front fork and by pinching the rear hub. It creates a rigid framework for your indoor training.

Some compact trainers clamp the rear wheel only; an inexpensive prop goes under the front wheel to hold it in place. Trainers cost anywhere from $100 to $250. Rollers, on the other hand, actually let you ride like a normal bike. They sit on the floor, and you set the entire bike on them and hop on. They’re more expensive; good ones are $300 and up. Serious cyclists generally like rollers.

They re-create the feel of a road ride and force you to pay close attention to your cadence and form. Of course, I regard myself as a moderately serious cyclist and prefer a trainer. On a trainer, I can zone out while listening to NPR and with luck forget just how gawdawful dull riding in one place can be. So it’s sort of a matter of your state of mind. They both give you a similar aerobic workout.

One thing I highly recommend is that you train with a heart monitor and aim for specific targets during your workout.

Which is better for the bike? A trainer can torque the frame a little, because it holds it in an unyielding position while your body weight is working away atop it. For that reason I use my “rain bike” frame for training use. Mind you, however, I’ve never heard of a good frame being loaded to failure on a trainer.

Anyway, if cost is no object, think a bit about the kind of training you’d prefer doing. Then go to a bike shop and have them let you use each for 5 or 10 minutes. I think that’s the best way to make a decision.

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