Bicycle trainers have become an essential item for all cyclists this season. Discover how bicycle rollers can be your solution for an effective workout at home, regardless of the weather conditions and the different types of rollers currently on the market so you can choose the one that best suits you.
Autumn is here and with it comes one of the most challenging seasons for cycling lovers. Weather conditions change, the days get shorter and the temperature drops, often making training outdoors a challenge. However, you don't have to give up your passion for cycling during this season. Bike trainers are the perfect solution to keep your training going, and in this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know about them.
What are Bicycle Rollers and why do you need them in Fall?
Bike trainers are devices designed to turn your bike into a stationary bike . Instead of riding on the roads, you can mount your bike on a trainer and pedal without leaving the spot .
These devices are especially valuable during the fall and winter, when inclement weather can make safe and comfortable outdoor cycling difficult. But ... Why should you get one of them, especially during the fall season?
- Continuous training : With a bicycle trainer, you can continue training even when the weather is not favorable. This is essential to maintain your fitness and improve your performance, regardless of the season.
- Safety : Wet, slippery, or leaf-covered roads during the fall can be dangerous for cyclists. Rollers allow you to avoid these risks and train in a controlled and safe environment.
- Time Savings : You don't have to worry about route planning or the need to travel to a specific location to train. A trainer allows you to train from the comfort of your home, saving you time and effort.
- Bike Maintenance: By reducing wear and tear on your bike in harsh weather conditions, rollers can help extend the life of your bike and reduce maintenance costs.
- Training Variety: Rollers offer the ability to perform different types of training, such as resistance training, high-intensity intervals, and more. You can adapt your training according to your goals and preferences.
What type of bicycle roller best suits your needs? Types of Bicycle Rollers
Now that we have highlighted its importance, we will tell you about the different types of bicycle rollers available on the market. Each type of roller has its own characteristics and advantages, so it is important to choose the one that best suits your needs and goals.
Balance Rollers
They are the simplest and most economical option and basically consist of a base with three rollers or rollers that offer resistance to the wheels of your bicycle.
The two rear rollers support the rear wheel, and the front one guides the front wheel. They require constant balance and can be a challenge at first, so it is recommended to start using them near a wall or element on which you can rest your arm, but they are excellent for improving pedaling technique.
The Zycle Trainer ZROLLER Balance Roller is one of these balance rollers made of light steel with which to improve your balance, concentration and total control on the bicycle.
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Advantages |
Disadvantages |
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They are silent |
Resistance cannot be adjusted |
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Move the bike laterally and sprint |
You have to learn to maintain balance |
|
Economical |
|
|
Easy to store |
|
Magnetic Rollers
Although they are slightly more expensive than balance rollers, magnetic rollers are still an economical option . These are shaped like a stand to which you only have to attach the rear wheel. They use magnetic resistance to create greater resistance when pedaling.
They are more stable than balance rollers and often have adjustable resistance levels to adapt to your training level, either through a lever that is installed on the handlebar, or if you have Bluetooth or +ANT, through virtual applications.
Due to the magnetic resistance, the use of this type of roller generates a lot of noise . It also wears out the back cover considerably , so it is recommended to have a smooth cover to use exclusively on the roller. Within this type of rollers we find the Smart Wahoo Kickr SNAP Electromagnetic Roller as the best option.
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Advantages |
Disadvantages |
|
Economical |
noise generated |
|
Adjustable resistance |
Rear cover wear |
|
Easy to store |
|
|
Virtual environments option |
|
Fluid Rollers
At slightly higher prices we find fluid rollers, rollers very similar to magnetic rollers in terms of structure but quieter .
Instead of magnets, fluid rollers use a fluid (oil or water) in their drum to provide resistance . They offer a more realistic, smooth and quiet pedaling sensation , but unless they are smart, they do not allow you to adjust the resistance. These types of rollers are an excellent option for prolonged resistance training .
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Advantages |
Disadvantages |
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Silent |
Less economical than magnetic ones |
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Allows much more realistic pedaling |
If they are not Smart, they do not have a resistance regulator. |
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It has virtual environments |
Rear cover wear |
Direct Drive Rollers
These rollers eliminate the need for your bike's rear wheel and connect directly to the bike via chain . They provide a highly realistic pedaling experience and are ideal for professional cyclists. It is the most complete system, but also the most expensive.
The resistance is provided directly to the transmission and they are very quiet with the sound of the chain and the pedaling itself being the only noise you will hear. The biggest drawback? Having to remove the rear wheel to be able to use it. In the market in terms of quality-price we can highlight the KICKR core Smart roller from Wahoo, a highly recognized brand, used and recommended by professional cyclists and teams.
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Advantages |
Disadvantages |
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Silent |
You have to remove the rear wheel |
|
Allows much more realistic pedaling |
More expensive |
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It has virtual environments |
Can't fold |
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Does not wear out the back cover |
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Intelligent or "Smart" Rollers
Some direct drive, electromagnetic or fluid type rollers are also smart rollers . Trainers with this functionality exchange information with the different training applications and modify the resistance automatically according to the conditions of the virtual road.
They also offer other advantages, such as slope simulation , performance monitoring and the possibility of competing online with other cyclists, making home training more enjoyable and competitive. They are ideal for those who want a highly interactive and controlled workout .
Bicycle roller to exercise at home: Comparative table
|
Balance Rollers |
Magnetic Rollers |
Fluid Rollers |
Direct Drive Rollers |
|
|
Price |
⦿〇〇〇 |
⦿⦿〇〇 |
⦿⦿⦿〇 |
⦿⦿⦿⦿ |
|
Silent |
⦿⦿⦿〇 |
⦿〇〇〇 |
⦿⦿〇〇 |
⦿⦿⦿⦿ |
|
smart |
❌ |
✅ |
✅ |
✅ |
|
Realism |
⦿〇〇〇 |
⦿⦿〇〇 |
⦿⦿⦿〇 |
⦿⦿⦿⦿ |
|
Adjustable resistance |
❌ |
✅ |
Only if it's smart |
✅ |
|
Cover wear |
No |
Yeah |
Yeah |
No |
In short, bike trainers are an essential tool for cycling enthusiasts who want to maintain their training during the fall season. With the wide variety of roller types available, you can choose the one that best suits your training needs and goals.
At Sportech Fitness, we understand the importance of maintaining your passion for cycling throughout the year and that is why we offer you a wide selection of bicycle rollers from the best brands on the market: Wahoo, Zycle, etc.