Tacx Fortius Virtual Reality Trainer, Photo: Kevin G Saunders
Now that fall is upon us I hear many people discussing their training options and the range is quite large! Some say they will ride outside even if it is dark or rainy. I call this the Belgian approach, because the weather over there is so wet and cold. Many others switch to spin bikes or stationary trainers, or even rollers.
I like rollers and the Tacx virtual reality trainers that we offer at KGS Bikes. Here is a quick opinion of both. I am starting my 6:00 AM training rides for the winter and actually use both devices.
First, rollers are unbeatable for developing a smooth riding style and for learning to ride in a straight line. Any random movement that you produce is amplified and when you learn to ride smoothly on the rollers, you are incredibly smooth on the road. They are just as boring as regular trainers and you can fall off. The learning curve is not as bad as many people fear, but it does exist. I have Kreitler rollers with the Killer Headwind fan, so the resistance is great when doing hard intervals.
For a stationary trainer, I have not found anything better than the Tacx Fortius Virtual Reality trainers. Not only do they have real virtual reality, steering and all, but they have incredible Real Life videos that are even in High Definition. When combined with a computer and a big flat screen tv, the experience is fantastic. The best part of this device is what separates it from Computrainers and other similar trainers. It is a Motor Brake that can actually allow coasting! This makes the feel of the trainer much more like riding on the road and it takes that constant load off your knees. That one benefit makes the Fortius shine above all others.
No matter what you use, keep training this fall and winter. It is much easier to keep it than to regain it!
