The material composition is an important factor to think about before buying a cycling trainer. It can make or break a product depending on the quality of the materials combined for creating a unit. It can ensure that the equipment is more likely to last for a very long time no matter how much you use it. Knowing that the Giantex Magnetic Indoor Bicycle Bike Trainer is made of A3 steel, ABS plastic, and PE, it won’t be surprising if you’ll believe it’s the best indoor trainer for road bike. Read on to know the advantages of combining those three materials before learning other features.
Table of Contents
Features and Specifications
A3 Steel + ABS Plastic + Polyethylene
Expect a higher level of durability from this bike trainer because of its tough materials. It can support weight up to 330 pounds thanks to A3 carbon steel, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic, and polyethylene (PE).
What exactly does A3 mean? A3 is simply a representation of a special composition that can make steel alloy more resistant to corrosion. It specifically consists of chromium, carbon, molybdenum, vanadium, manganese, and nickel. No wonder A3 steel is a common material for gardening instruments which are always exposed to moisture.
Meanwhile, the opaque thermoplastic ABS can handle some thermal and chemical factors as well as remain strong against physical impact. As a plus, it has an attractive finish because of its glossy appearance and vivid color. With those benefits in mind, it’s not surprising that ABS plastic is commonly used as the main material for computer keyboards, toys, sockets, power tool housings, helmets, and some car parts or accessories.
This bike trainer also includes another type of plastic. PE is known as the most common type of plastic, usually manufactured for the production of bottles, toys, and shopping bags. It’s one of the cheapest materials out there, but it’s still in-demand because of its durability. It’s resistant to water and physical impact.
Wide Folding Frame
The frame can be installed at any spot in your home. That’s mostly because it will remain stable whether the surface is flat or not. It can also be stored anywhere you want since it’s the folding type.
Assembly will only take a few minutes as long as you pay close attention to the product’s instructions. After placing the frame on the floor, just secure the rear axle of your bike with the clamp and make a few adjustments on the setup of the wheel over the roller.
Magnetic Resistance
You can enjoy five levels of resistance with this magnetic bike trainer. Don’t worry about tricky adjustments; this equipment has a drive-by-wire control to let you adjust the resistance through the handlebars.
Meanwhile, the resistance wheel can perform quietly. If there are no technical issues with it, you won’t have to turn the music up just to drown out the noise. One feature that makes quieter rides possible is the self-cooling system of the unit.
Additional Details
- 65 inches x 15.16 inches x 18.11 inches
- Weighs less than 22 pounds
- Can fit 26” – 28” wheels
- Works with 700c wheels
The Good
One of the Cheapest High-Quality Trainers
If indoor cycling is only an alternative for you when you can’t go outside, you don’t have to spend a lot of money on a single trainer. Some people rely on bike trainers, but others prefer the real thing most of the time. If you’re part of the latter, the Giantex Magnetic Indoor Bicycle Bike Trainer is the perfect one for you. It works decently without extra features, which is ideal for practical use.
On the other hand, if you really want to train with hi-tech simulators, there are other models designed for that. The Elite Direto 2 Interactive Smart Trainer and the CycleOps Hammer Direct Drive Smart Trainer are much more expensive, but they have everything you need for virtual training.
Highly Durable
You may think plastic is a big no-no for bike trainers; however, you’re underestimating its durability. Pure steel will always be better, but you can’t have it all if you want something more affordable.
This A3 steel bike trainer uses ABS, one of the toughest plastics in the market. If ABS plastic is strong enough for power tools and helmets, then surely it’s a decent material for indoor trainers.
Nonstop Training Sessions
Adjusting the resistance is tricky with some models. You still have to pause and turn a knob located somewhere down the bike or frame. Fortunately, the Giantex Magnetic Indoor Bicycle Bike Trainer will provide you with a drive-by-wire device. That means you can use all five resistance levels in just one session by simply controlling the device on the handlebars.
The Bad
Loud Scraping Sounds
The usual type of noise people complain about when using bike trainers is the constant buzzing from the uncontrollable vibrations. This model, however, can be worse than that. One user described the noise like two metal pieces rubbing against one another. That mechanical sound is much more audible, which can be heard even if you’re several meters away.
Not Enough Resistance Levels
Five resistance levels are pretty common for bike trainers, but some cyclists want more. We can’t blame them; there are indeed magnetic models with more resistance options. The 1114 RAD Cycle Products Max Racer PRO is a perfect example. With seven resistance levels, it’s one of the most versatile models in stores. You can either maintain a cruising speed with it or challenge yourself by slope simulation.
Who Is It For?
The Giantex Magnetic Indoor Bicycle Bike Trainer is ideal for cyclists who prefer value for money. It’s super-affordable, but its steel and plastic composition is top-notch. Its plastic parts and surfaces work perfectly with steel.
Beginners will also appreciate the easy setup of this indoor trainer. It’s great for initial training since it’s cheaper and rugged.
Conclusion
A short range of resistance levels is nothing compared to unbearable noise. Make sure to check the Giantex Magnetic Indoor Bicycle Bike Trainer at first sight for loose screws and uneven metal surfaces. Spotting the problem early is important to prevent scraping noises and for you to enjoy the product to the fullest.