8 great indoor trainers when you have to ride inside
Editor’s Note: This article is part of the Mtbr Ultimate Guide to winter mountain biking. We are taking a deep dive into all manner of cold weather mountain bike gear, with round-ups and reviews of fat bikes, tires, wheels, apparel, lights, trainers and more. To see all the articles, head over to our Winter Guide Hub Page.
With hundreds of options to chose from, it can be hard to narrow down your shopping list when searching for a trainer. To help make that decision a little easier, here in no particular order are eight of the top trainers currently on the market. And if you’re confused about the technology that sets these trainers apart, check out our guide to picking the best trainer for you.
The CPR A-2000 can accommodate 16”-29” tires without special adapters (click to enlarge).
1. 1upUSA CPA-2000
The 1upUSA CPR A-2000 has won multiple awards due to its quiet performance, incredible adjustability, and compact nature. The sturdy unit is only 6” thick when folded and is entirely built in the USA. | Price: $309 | More info at www.1upusa.com
The free version of Bkool’s software offers powerful tools, but the premium service unlocks a 3D world, video routes, and more (click to enlarge).
2. BKool Smart Pro
What sets the Smart Pro apart from its competitors is the powerful fusion of software and hardware. Bkool’s Indoor Simulator technology allows you to import GPS files to replicate any route in the world. You can also plug in your (or anyone else’s) previous ride performances, to see how you compare in real time. | Price: $699 | More info at www.bkool.com
CycleOps shares a roof with PowerTap, which enables them to work closely in order to hone in the accuracy of trainer resistance (click to enlarge).
3. CycleOps PowerSync
Compared to the other electronic-enhanced trainers on this list, the PowerSync is relatively affordable. Like its competitors, it allows you to sync your computer or TV to utilize virtual training software such as Zwift. For those on a budget however, the CycleOps Fluid 2 is their perennial best seller. It retails for $350. | Price: $899 | More info at www.cycleops.com
The Cyclotron Mag II offers reliable performance at a reasonable price (click to enlarge).
4. Giant Cyclotron Mag II
If you’re not obsessed with data, Giant’s Cyclotron II magnetic trainer has everything you need to get a solid workout indoors at a reasonable price. The magnetic trainer is quiet and has seven resistance levels, which you can swap between via a handlebar mounted thumb shifter. | Price: $180 | More info at www.giant-bicycles.com
Continue to page 2 to learn about four more great trainers »
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