Bike Trainer/Stationary Bike

[b.rabbit]

This is for bike enthusiasts,

I'm looking to get a bike trainer or a stationary bike just to get some exercise to work on my legs. I'm not particularly a hardcore biker and the bike I have (for the trainer) is kind of a hybrid, but it's more mountain than road.

Are there any recommendations out there?

Thanks TM3!

[MSMitch]

I have a TACX roller - they are typically one of the best brands - it's the speed or windbreaker - has two fans that can be hooked up for resistance.

These are the ones that you have to balance on - both wheels spinning. You can purchase a fork mounting bracket for it as well. Others have just a rear mount (trainer)
I don't really have the proper place to use mine anymore (you want a wall or hallway for the TACX rollers otherwise you may fall over!). If you're interested in rollers, PM me. Mine was originally $350 - would sell it pretty cheap :)

But the rollers are typically more "hard core" - you also get a MUCH better workout on them as you work on balance as well. As few times on it and you'll be able to close your eyes while biking on it!

[b.rabbit]

Thanks for the info MSMitch.

The TACX roller you described sounds real hardcore (if I'm understanding you correctly with your description).

I think for the moment, I'm looking for something like a trainer (rear mount).

That being said, I'll keep in mind your offer! Thanks!

[rwatt]

But the rollers are typically more "hard core" - you also get a MUCH better workout on them as you work on balance as well. As few times on it and you'll be able to close your eyes while biking on it!

Yes, I have rollers as well and it took about 20 minutes to get the technique down. I just rested my elbows in a doorway and the rest was cake. And even without resistance it is a very good workout. I'm stubborn though, and my rollers aren't getting much use...I prefer to ride outside even when it's dark and snowing.
The thing about rollers is that you need to have a smooth pedal stroke. If you are using flat pedals it likely won't work well.
If you can't work up the courage, I've head good things about the Kurt Kinetic fluid trainer (http://www.pricepoint.com/detail/14533-330_KURRM6-2-Accessories-43-Trainers/Kurt-Kinetic-Road-Machine-Fluid-Trainer.htm)

[b.rabbit]

Yeah, I've been taking a look at some of the Kurt trainers here: http://www.kurtkinetic.com/index.php

I was wondering if anyone here at some input and recommendations.

With the roller though, is there any time where you'd "jump off the rollers"?

[rwatt]

With the roller though, is there any time where you'd "jump off the rollers"?

You're not going to ride off the front of it, if that's what you mean. It's not impossible...if you are standing and hammering then maybe, but that is a dumb thing to do on rollers with no front/rear sliding motion anyways. I have been caught not paying attention while watching TV, and slipped off the side though. With quick reflexes it's no big deal besides putting a big scuff in the floor.
There are rollers with conical shapes that make it virtually impossible to fall off, but they are slightly more expensive.

You might look like this guy the first time :chuckle

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7UFwHWSnGM

[b.rabbit]

That looks tough!
Are the rollers limited to only road bikes? Would I be able to use a mountain bike on it?

[rwatt]

That looks tough!
Are the rollers limited to only road bikes? Would I be able to use a mountain bike on it?

It's not as hard as it looks, that guy was just a tool :chuckle
You can use a mountain bike, but get slick tires otherwise it will be very noisy and your teeth will fall out.

[MSMitch]

You could use a mountain/hybrid bik on the rollers - you would just want to get baldies or at least smooth tires for them. It is quite fun - gets your heart pumping though at first. Promotes a VERY smooth pedal stroke and even better balance on the bike. I would probably be a little easier on a mountain bike with slightly wider tires too.
Whichever type you get, invest in a nice fan to put in front of you - you really heat up on those things as you get a ful body workout (on rollers that is). :)

Oh yeah, this is a link of a video I took of myself on rollers (jk) :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MiCdm5FsJpg

[b.rabbit]

MSMitch, I might PM you tonight about the rollers. I may try 'em out.

I'm only looking to take up this to work out because I rather ride a bike than run. I don't like running. :P