Top 3 Bike Trainers Comparison Review
What is the best bike trainer money can buy?
Magnetic Trainers
Magnetic bike trainers resistance comes from eddy current. According to Wikipedia “eddy current brakes slow an object by creating eddy currents through electromagnetic induction, which creates resistance”. Unlike the exponential resistance curve of a fluid trainer, magnetic trainers have linear resistance (increases at a steady rate).
1. Wahoo Fitness KICKR 11-Speed Bike Trainer
At $1200 it’s not cheap but definitely this is the best magnetic trainer money can buy.
Compatible with virtual-training software and mobile apps, the KICKR 11-speed trainer replaces your back wheel to simulate realistic outdoor cycling for a smooth ride you can control from your phone.
- Wheel-off design ensures consistent, accurate power measurement
- Connected to your device, the KICKR sets your resistance via your favorite app or software
- Flywheel is engineered to replicate the inertia of riding on the road for a realistic experience
- Bluetooth Smart and ANT+ enabled for wireless control and data transfer
- Works with popular training software such as Kinomap, Virtual Training, and TrainerRoad (not included)
- Compatible with iPhone 4s and newer, 3rd generation iPad and newer, iPad Mini and compatible Android devices
- Includes a 11-speed Shimano / SRAM compatible cassette and RPM cadence sensor; also compatible with 8 / 9 / 10-speed Shimano / SRAM cassettes
- Please note: For Campagnolo cassettes, a Wahoo fitness adapter must be used (not included)
- Universal fit accommodates almost any bike type and size, from 24 in. bikes to full-size road and mountain bikes
- Compatible with quick-release rear axle and hubs with 130mm or 135mm width
Imported.
2. Wahoo Fitness KICKR SNAP Bike Trainer
A cheaper alternative to the KICKR 11-Speed, this unit still offers magnetic resistance.
The Wahoo KICKR SNAP Power Trainer includes power you can feel, app-controlled resistance and an open platform—all in a convenient wheel-on design.
- Wheel-on design makes it easy to turn your road or mountain bike into a powerful indoor SmartTrainer
- Stable design keeps the trainer firmly planted on the floor and your bike securely locked in, so you can train with confidence
- Use your smartphone, tablet or computer to control resistance and provide a reliable power measurement so you can monitor and adjust your intensity
- Both ANT+ and Bluetooth 4.0 (aka Bluetooth Smart) capabilities allow it to connect to both smartphones and GPS devices simultaneously or separately
- When connected to your device, it automatically sets your resistance via your favorite app or software
- High-inertia flywheel is engineered to replicate the feel of an actual rider on the road
- Virtual training works with popular training software such as Kinomap and TrainerRoad
- Adjustable to fit most bikes; foldable legs for easy transport
- Compatible with iPhone 4S and newer, iPad (3rd gen and newer), iPad Touch (5th gen and newer), and Android devices
Imported.
Specifications comparison. KICKR 11-Speed vs. KICKR SNAP Bike Trainer
| KICKR 11-Speed Bike Trainer | ||
| Best use | Road cycling | Road cycling |
| Resistance type | Magnet | Magnet |
| Dimensions | 28 x 21 inches | 29 x 26 inches |
| Foldable | Yes | Yes |
| Remote shifter | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 47 pounds | 38 pounds |
Fluid Trainers
CycleOps Fluid2 Bike Trainer with Training Kit
Kinetic Road Machine 2.0 Bike Trainer
Kinetic Road Machine Smart Bike Trainer
These are fluid trainers
Good resource here:
http://cycling-review.com/accessories/bicycle-trainer/
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