Indoor Trainer

[Big JD]

I am keen to get an Indoor Trainer and I think the way to go is to get one that links to the PC so I can ride simulated routes etc. in order to try and keep it interesting.

 

Any advice on which unit to purchase? Where I should get it from? And anything else I should consider?

 

Thanks!

[Wil6]

Depends on what you are willing to pay?Computer ones go for R12000+ and you can get a descent normal one from R2000+

[Mr SingleTrack]

Get a roller (one with a resistance setting) and whatch TV while you ride. It works for me

[Big JD]

Depends on what you are willing to pay?Computer ones go for R12000+ and you can get a descent normal one from R2000+

 

Not that keen to spend R12K, but am keen on a computer one. The Tacx I-Magic seems to sell for around R6K. Is that any good?

[Joe Low]

Not that keen to spend R12K, but am keen on a computer one. The Tacx I-Magic seems to sell for around R6K. Is that any good?

Yes it is.

[Showtime]

I have an I-Magic.

 

Riding an indoor trainer is still worlds apart from riding your bike and will take allot of discipline. The sensations and road feel just aren't there. Riding a real life video or course is a novelty but because it's still doesn't simulate the things that make cycling fun you want to get the workout done sooner rather than later.

 

For this reason I think you would prefer a 45 minute structured program (intervals etc) compared to riding a virtual course for 70 minutes.

 

If I had to buy now I would get the Tacx Vortex. It has power measurement and a wireless head unit. So no waiting for the computer to boot up and plugging in cables, just clip the head unit on and do the workout.

 

If you have no serious training goals the virtual trainer won't be enough to get you training indoors.

[Big JD]

Thanks for the feedback Showtime. I fully agree there is nothing like riding your bike, however I just can't seem to get enough training under the belt in winter. I will have a look at the Tacx Vortex.

[Joe Low]

I have an I-Magic.

 

Riding an indoor trainer is still worlds apart from riding your bike and will take allot of discipline. The sensations and road feel just aren't there. Riding a real life video or course is a novelty but because it's still doesn't simulate the things that make cycling fun you want to get the workout done sooner rather than later.

 

For this reason I think you would prefer a 45 minute structured program (intervals etc) compared to riding a virtual course for 70 minutes.

 

If you have no serious training goals the virtual trainer won't be enough to get you training indoors.

Agreed. But, for me, its good enough to get me training 3 times a week midweek, that I wouldnt do otherwise. There's enough interest to keep me at it, mostly through racing against myself from previous rides. I like it, but it cant be the centrepiece of a training programme.

[Showtime]

Tell me about it.

 

First I got the I-Magic to kickstart some winter training a few years back and that didn't happen. Then I got lights for the MTB to ride in the dark only to realise the dark is the least of my problems in winter

 

This year I decided to jog in the winter instead. Will see how it goes when I finish shaking off this flu.