Indoor cycling has transformed from boring wall-staring sessions into engaging training experiences that connect you with riders worldwide. Modern trainers simulate real-world conditions, connect with training apps, and provide detailed performance data. With so many features and options, how do you know which one to get? Luckily, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect guide to find the best trainer for your needs.
Smart & Interactive Trainers
This is the evolution of the basic bike trainer. These trainers offer connectivity, virtual support and even automated resistance adjustments on the high-end models. Smart trainers transform indoor cycling from a simple exercise into an engaging, data-driven experience.
Selling Points: App connectivity, automated resistance, real-time data, social features, and works with Zwift.
Product Highlight: Kickr Core 2 Smart Trainer with 11-speed Cassette
Trainer Bikes
For the ultimate indoor training experience, trainer bikes are the ideal choice. They can emulate grade changes by adjusting the bike's elevation or descent, have integrated and programmable shifting, adjust resistance, and even, in some cases, simulate road texture and wind.
Selling Points: Ultimate realism with gradient simulation, keeps the outdoor bike free, adjustable fit, and most stable.
Product Highlight: Kickr Bike Pro
Classic Rollers
This is the classic old-school roller that you see track cyclists and racers use at the local criterium for their warm-up. It's a favourite amongst experienced riders who enjoy the natural pedalling feel of rollers. Rollers offer unique benefits that fixed trainers cannot provide.
Selling Points: Develops bike handling skills, offers a natural pedalling feel, is lightweight, and requires no special tires.
Product Highlight: Tacx Antares
Classic Bike Trainers
Classic trainers provide an affordable entry into indoor cycling without sacrificing workout effectiveness. There's a wide variety of basic bike trainers that allow riders of different calibres to train adequately. The main difference between one model and another is the maximum resistance it can provide.
Selling Points: Budget-friendly, simple operation, compact storage, no electricity required.
Product Highlight: Boost Trainer Bundle
Finding Your Perfect Match
Whether you choose a basic trainer for simple winter fitness or invest in a premium smart trainer for serious performance gains, you're making a wise investment in year-round cycling. Each trainer type has its place, and understanding these differences helps ensure you get exactly what you need without paying for features you won't use.