[net.bicycle] Wind-load simulators

eam3@sphinx.UChicago.UUCP (edward a. morris) (10/04/85)

I am considering purchasing a wind-load type trainer for the 
upcoming winter months.  I would be interested in opinions about:

  (1) The various models on the market, particularly the "standard"
      mount types vs. the new piggy-back style from Racer Mate.

  (2) In comparison to conventional rollers or the new combination
      units, such as the Kreitler (sp?).

I am particularly concerned about frame stress.

Ted Morris
University of Chicago
Library Systems Group
ihnp4!gargoyle!sphinx!eam3
(312) 962-8763

marc@bmcg.UUCP (Marc Lee) (10/07/85)

In article <1160@sphinx.UChicago.UUCP> eam3@sphinx.UChicago.UUCP (edward a. morris) writes:
>I am considering purchasing a wind-load type trainer for the 
>upcoming winter months.  I would be interested in opinions about:
>
>  (1) The various models on the market, particularly the "standard"
>      mount types vs. the new piggy-back style from Racer Mate.


I bought a "piggy-back" trainer recently, because of its compactness vs
turbo-type trainers or rollers, and the fact that it isolates floor vibration
better than other types (important when used in a 2nd floor apt.).  It sets
up in about a half-hour, with the minor drawback of having to use Racer-Mate's
quick release on the rear.

It gives a good workout, comparable to the front-mount type.  The base isn't
real wide, so when used on a soft carpet it is a little unstable.  One draw-
back I've noticed with wind-load trainers is lack of a flywheel effect when
spinning; it is harder to maintain a constant cadence, and the resistance
throught the pedal stroke isn't exactly like real riding.  The Kreitler
rollers that I've tried do a much better job of this, probably because the
actual rollers are fairly heavy.  I think if I had room (and money) I would
probably have bought the new Kreitler wind-load system.

mancello@acf4.UUCP (Homeboy#1) (10/08/85)

Check out the latest issue of Bicycling (Dec. 85).  They have an article
covering the latest in wind trainers.


					-Dominic Mancello (cmcl2!acf4!mancello)