How Does a Bicycle Trainer Work?

Bicycle trainers adapt bicycles to stationary roller platforms and supporting stands. Using several different drag systems, the trainers simulate the load conditions of real world terrain.

  1. Air Resistance

    • Some bicycle trainers drive a large fan blade instead of a flywheel. Air resistance increases with pedaling speed.

    Fluid Friction

    • In a similar way but with a more compact design, fluid based trainers turn a small fan blade in a sealed fluid filled chamber. If combined with magnetic resistance, this system offers a wide range of easily controlled drag settings.

    Magnetic Resistance

    • One of the best available designs, magnetic resistance trainers create drag on a metal flywheel by adjusting the strength or position of a magnetic field. The closer or stronger the magnetic field, the greater the drag on the wheel.

    Controls

    • High quality bicycle trainers can be computer controlled to simulate the changing terrain of a real world course. Course simulation can include terrain much tougher than that actually available to the rider.

    Considerations

    • By creating controllable physical challenges for riders, bicycle trainers offer more efficient warm-ups, variable training regimens, and customizable virtual courses.