{"id":18194,"date":"2017-01-05T12:16:43","date_gmt":"2017-01-05T12:16:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/blog\/?p=18194"},"modified":"2017-01-05T13:54:14","modified_gmt":"2017-01-05T13:54:14","slug":"2017-home-trainer-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.merlincycles.com\/blog\/2017-home-trainer-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Home Trainer Buying Guide 2017"},"content":{"rendered":"

When you are sick of training in the rain & cold, or if you need to do specific training, home trainers can provide the ideal solution. On the face of it, there are just two options with regards to bike training at home: Rollers or Turbo\u2019s. However, there is a wide selection of turbo trainers and rollers available, trainers using a variety of different technologies to provide an effective, realistic workout.<\/p>\n

Magnetic<\/h2>\n

Magnetic resistance trainers<\/a> have a magnetic disc spinning next to a steel flywheel to increase or decrease magnetic resistance. Magnetic trainers offer the option to set your level of resistance, which can be used to replicate flat, climbing or downhill riding. Spinning metal discs with a magnetic field can cause heat build-up over time. Manufacturers combat heat build up by fitting a fan, this can make magnetic trainers a bit noisier than fluid trainers. Magnetic resistance trainers are usually more cost effective and offer a variable resistance work out.<\/p>\n

\"minouratrainer\"<\/p>\n

Fluid<\/h2>\n

With fluid trainers the fan (or impeller) is spinning through a silicone fluid. Fluid trainers tend to be the quietest trainers, the fan is fully enclosed in a watertight (fairly sound proof) casing. Manufacturers tune the viscosity of the liquid to create a realistic power-curve. The viscosity of the fluid can change as the trainer heats up, some manufacturers have introduced a fan to keep the fluid cooler and more stable whilst in operation. Fluid trainers tend to offer a more realistic and smooth ride feel than magnetic.<\/p>\n

Electromagnetic<\/h2>\n

Similar to magnetic trainers, Electromagnetic Trainers use similar technology but in a more modern way. The electromagnetic trainers use electricity and so can be controlled digitally via a head unit which fits to the handlebars. Electromagnetic trainers can also be used to measure power in watts. Several manufacturers incorporate the ability to hook up to computers to provide stimulation for what can otherwise prove a slightly tedious training option. Software can incorporate real ride GPS data so you can recreate outdoor experiences into your home.\"tacx-i-genius-trainer\"<\/p>\n

Motor Turbo<\/h2>\n

Tacx’s top end trainers are motor turbo trainers. This type of trainer uses a motor as the resistance method \u2013 a current carrying coil and a magnetic field provide the resistance. Essentially, motor trainers don\u2019t differ much in terms of feel from Electromagnetic trainers, however motor trainers can apply load in both directions and physically spin your back wheel. This is great for riding with GPS course via your laptop or on ride simulation programs such as Zwift \u2013 the downhills will feel like downhills!<\/p>\n

Direct Drive<\/h2>\n

A more recent design of trainer is the direct drive trainer. Several manufacturers produce Direct Drive trainers, you will need to attach a cassette to the trainer. The bike is attached with the rear wheel removed and so this eliminates the issues of tyre wear and wheel slippage under heavy load. Direct drive trainers use either magnetic, fan or fluid resistance. More advanced ones like the Elite Muin Fluid trainer (below) are ready to hook up to your PC, Mac or Android device with a transmitter dongle.<\/p>\n