5 Indoor Trainers That Will Keep You Riding All Winter Long

As we approach that time of year when the cold, wet weather typically sets in, it is time to look into indoor riding options. You can choose between rollers and trainers, but the stationary trainer is the standard tool of the trade for most riders looking to train indoors.

Here are five indoor trainers including popular models that have been getting rave reviews for years as well as a couple new, high-tech offerings:

1. CycleOps Jet Fluid Pro

CycleOps has always had a nice flagship trainer option. Cyclists have been buying this for years, and many shops even use a CycleOps Fluid 2 unit for bike fits. This Jet Fluid Pro is simply the latest upgrade to CycleOps’ stable of fluid trainers.

The JetFluid Pro uses PowerTuned technology for a smooth fluid feel, which makes for realistic feeling accelerations when riding. In layman’s terms, this trainer makes it feel like you’re actually out on the open road. It is also “the quietest Fluid trainer ever made.”

Website: www.Saris.com

2. 1UpUSA

One trainer that’s very popular around the online cycling communities, yet I rarely see in person, is the 1Up USA trainer. How popular? It has been voted “Best Trainer” seven years in a row by MountainBikeReview.com and RoadBikeReview.com!

You’ll have to check the site to read all the details that set this trainer apart from the rest, but the number one reason is the Centrifugal Pressure Resistance, which I can’t explain other than the fact it is supposed to provide a more realistic ride than any fluid or magnetic trainer!

For just $299 shipped, the 1UpUSA trainer is definitely worth a look.

Website: www.1upusa.com

3. Kurt Kinetic Road Machine

The other extremely popular fluid trainer is the Road Machine from Kurt. This is a fluid trainer with smooth resistance and good road feel.

Website: www.kurtkinetic.com

4. Blackburn Tech Fluid Trainer

Blackburn has come out with an updated fluid trainer to expand your options. It is supposed to be as good as the others, but it’s $100 or so less, so it’s definitely worth considering. It also comes with a lifetime warranty.

Website: www.blackburn.com

5. Tacx Fortius

This is a serious trainer, with a serious price – well over $1000. Not only is it a solid trainer, it incorporates Virtual Reality and turns your slog on the trainer into a lifelike racing experience!

If you plan to log a lot of miles indoors and you have lots of extra cash, definitely take a look at the Virtual Reality trainers from Tacx.

Website: www.tacxvr.com