Technical characteristics
Resistance control
The resistance unit is a vital part of the trainer as it simulates the gradients of slopes or the road feel. Two types of trainers can be distinguished by means of the resistance control:
Manual trainer: A basic trainer where you adjust the resistance manually with a lever on the handlebar or on the resistance unit. These trainers are available from around £100.
Interactive trainer: A smart trainer adjusts the resistance automatically when connected to a wireless unit such as a smartphone or laptop. These trainers are available from around £300.
Some trainer models have a lower resistance range than others. These are suitable for basic training as well as high speed and high cadence training. More powerful resistance units are great for sprints, intervals and hill climbs. The resistance output can vary between 950 and 2200 watts.
Break units
Resistance can be applied by different types of systems. Which system is used has a direct impact on the cycling experience, intensity and also the price.
Air: Resistance is regulated by tiny fans mounted on the trainer. It’s a simple but effective concept and works great for the beginner or if you’re looking for a cheap alternative. Unfortunately, trainers with air brakes can be quite noisy.
Magnetic: Resistance is applied by a built-in flywheel that is regulated by a magnetic field. It's more powerful, more efficient and quieter than the air resistance trainer as there is no contact between the brake unit and the flywheel.
Fluid: Resistance is applied by a built in flywheel and is regulated by brake fluid. It gives the most road-like and realistic cycling experience as the fluid thickens when you pedal, thus making it harder to pedal. This is also the quietest braking unit available.
Software
Interactive/E-training & apps: There is a wide range of different apps and programs that can make your training sessions more efficient and fun. They analyse speed, distance, heart rate, cadence and gradient. Some apps have a huge amount of pre-programmed routes – you can choose from a selection of popular roads and races from around the world. You can also race against others live online and create your own training sessions. Resistance is regulated automatically. You have to have a smart/interactive trainer to connect to these programmes.