The best cycle trainer for some people isn’t the hi-tech kind. If you just want something safe and convenient for your training, simple high-quality equipment is enough. And, with that standard in mind, we highly recommend the CycleOps Fluid Trainer. It has all the basic features you need without extra aspects that can complicate your workout. That’s why it’s one of the most reliable models you can have. Read on to know what’s exactly in store for you when you choose this product.
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Features and Specifications
Steel Folding Frame
This bike trainer is known as one of the smoothest and quietest options in the market for an average cyclist. That’s because it has an extremely sturdy frame made of high-grade steel, which is delightfully surprising with the bright yellow coating. Even the skewer is made of steel to enhance durability. Without shaky, wobbly, or clunky motions, the frame is less likely to produce loud sounds.
Not only is the frame steady and tough, but it also has a wide structure to perfectly support your weight no matter what. In fact, each unit is tested and proven to endure a total weight of 300 pounds max (user + bike).
Other features contributing to more balanced rides are the fluid resistance and the leveling feet. If the resistance is controlled by a special liquid in the system, your rides will be smoother and easier to manage. You just need to pedal faster to make the fluid hotter, resulting in an automatic adjustment of the resistance level.
As for the leveling feet, it will help you achieve balance even if the surface is uneven. It allows effortless adjustments to prevent time-consuming preparations and pauses.
Turn Knob System
For the sake of hassle-free consistency, this bike trainer uses a turn knob system. That feature will let you connect your bike’s rear wheel easily and, at the same time, protect its tire. It promotes easier adjustments for a wide variety of wheels and tires.
And, since successful mounting relies on the compatibility between the roller and the wheel, take note of the acceptable sizes: 26”, 27”, 29”, 700c, and 2.0 tires. Basically, you may use this indoor trainer whether you have a road or mountain bike. As a plus, removing the bike is easy as 1-2-3 thanks to the frame’s quick-release skewer.
Additional Details
- Free skewer
- Weighs 19 pounds
- 1 inches long, 19.4 inches wide, and 6.9 inches tall
- One size for all users
- Also has plastic and aluminum sections
- Compatible with 120mm, 130mm, or 135mm rear dropout spacing
- Thru-axle adapter sold separately for these bikes: 142 mm x 12 mm, 148mm x 12mm
- Made in Wisconsin, USA
- Lifetime warranty
The Good
Practical for Beginners
For cyclists who never tried using bike trainers before, the CycleOps Fluid Trainer is ideal because of its simplicity. Its resistance can be maintained in lower levels, helping new riders to get used to the idea of cycling indoors. You can train yourself to achieve a faster bike split with a 10-second difference or more. This equipment can prepare you to more advanced training like hill climbing.
Beneficial for Different Types of Athletes
Whether you’re playing basketball, soccer, or even water sports, you can improve your endurance, leg strength, and other abilities with this bike trainer. It’s great workout equipment for people of all ages. The whole family can enjoy it. As a suggestion, you can add sensors to measure your progress.
Affordable Multipurpose Equipment
The CycleOps Fluid Trainer is cheaper than other popular models, including its newer version — the CycleOps Fluid 2 Trainer. However, that doesn’t change the fact that it can be used for different needs.
For continuous workout even when it gets rainy or snowy outside, this bike trainer can be your go-to equipment. Also, it’s a great choice if you prefer a more straightforward approach during training. Just mount your bike, ride on it, and start the pedal until you move faster and achieve a higher resistance.
The Bad
Less Durable Roller
Just to be clear, the plastic areas of this bike trainer aren’t exactly low-quality. They can still withstand heavy use. However, compared to metal rollers, you can’t expect plastic ones to last for decades. High-grade alloy rollers can still look brand-new after several years.
Only Compatible with Smaller Wheels
This time, it isn’t about the roller’s material. The roller of this indoor trainer can fit different wheels, but that’s not the case for some bike owners. It’s too narrow for bigger wheels, limiting the rider’s movements. To be more specific, it won’t let a large wheel move left and right. The consequence is a fixed wheel that will only slow down your progress since you can’t be more dynamic.
Not Compatible with Popular Simulators
Don’t expect this bike trainer to meet all of your standards if you’re planning to use Zwift and other advanced simulators. It has a simple design for basic training, nothing else. There are other indoor trainers meant for all-around simulation. Bestsellers include BKOOL Smart Pro 2 Trainer and CycleOps 9930 M2 Smart Trainer.
Who Is It For?
The CycleOps Fluid Trainer is best for first-time indoor cyclists, buyers who are on a tight budget, and active people in general.
Not all pro cyclists can easily adjust to the limitations of a bike trainer, so there are simpler models designed for them. Extra features can make your training complicated, especially when you’re still getting the hang of indoor cycling.
Meanwhile, since advanced technology can make a product more expensive, stick to something practical if you want a cheaper model. Working out with a simulator is so awesome, but you have to give up some features if you need to spend less.
Conclusion
Don’t underestimate the CycleOps Fluid Trainer just because it uses a simple system and a plastic roller. It can still provide you with a wide range of resistance levels. Besides, the whole structure will remain solid despite not being 100% steel. The plastic and aluminum components of this bike trainer have decent quality.