Indoor Bike Trainer

I am an incredible wuss when it comes to riding in the cold. So, I asked for a trainer for Christmas so I could continue to ride even when the weather outside gets frightful.


I went with a 2008 CycleOps fluid trainer. I set it up in my spare room where I usually do my painting (however, haven’t painted a thing in about a year). Here’s how it turned out.





Notes:

1. If you’re on carpet, you’ll want a firm mat. I got this one pretty cheap ($18) at Wal-Mart. The problem with it is it’s almost like a sturdy foam, but not sturdy enough that the bike and components don’t sink in it a little. You really want a hard surface (almost like plywood or something) to give the bike a little more stability since you are raised up.
2. You’ll definitely want a riser block. CycleOps makes a great climbing riser that is stackable if you want a higher incline. Without a block of some sort, the front of the bike will constantly lean downward.
3. My trainer came with a skewer which the instructions said MUST be used. After calling a buddy, completely removing the tire, finding out that might also include needing a new cassette, then figuring out the trainer had adjustable skewer holders, we finally determined the instructions were wrong. You don’t need to use their skewer. Just adjust the bars to fit to yours. It was a pain in the ass.

I’m saving up for new clipless pedals and shoes as my next bike accessories.


Overall, this worked out really well. The t.v. keeps me plenty entertained and the fan above keeps me cool. Some people said I’d need a bike bra to keep the bike clean of sweat. I’ve only ridden once so far, so maybe I get a little more into it, that will be necessary, but not right now.