Trainer VS Stationary Bike

[Jason-G]

I've been trying to decide on getting a trainer or stationary bike for days when I just can't get to the trails. The good trainer and stationary bike, can be in the same price range. A trainer looks like it would be better for you, since you are on your own bike. Set up to be comfortable to you. But the problem for me is having to bring my bike into the house to do this. It is usually dirty and my wife dosen't like me bringing it inside. So the alternative was a stationary bike. This is a Nordictrack stationary bike I like and the price and features are decent.
http://www.nordictrack.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product2_12401_10301_28251_-1_19551
Only thing is it takes up space. But we have a spare bedroom/computer room that will work fine.

So I am kinda torn on which way to go. Is one better than the other? Is it a matter of preference? Is there more pros and cons to consider? Please post up with your comments and experiences.

Thanks!!

[Paddlechris]

Well this is a big one.. both offer different things..

Stationary:
You can get more variability if you go with a nicer model (variability means you will use it more in the long run)… No offense on the one you have picked but I do not think you will be happy with it in the long run.. Bad thing is you have to deal with it in your house all year and who wants to ride inside in the summer? With a little work you should be able to put on a better seat and clipless pedals to make it more like your own bike (be sure the cranks are 3 piece or 3/16th thread, it is a one piece chances are it is 1/8th and your clipless pedals will not work)

Trainer:
You are on your own bike – get one with adjustable tension lets you mix it up a bit. Make sure you have an extra rear wheel because the trainer will eat up your tires… Hard to get a computerized variable workout (these are real nice but pricey)

I guess bottom line is I would rather have a GOOD stationary bike, but the trainer I have has worked fine for 3 years, and I get a solid workout on it. And the best part is when you do not need it you can store it in a closet.. which works well for me..

C

[Jason-G]

Thanks for the info Chris. But the wife wants the stationary bike, so that is what we are gonna go with. At least it is something to pedal on rainy days. Beats sitting on the couch!!

[Paddlechris]

I am sure it would be fine, I just finished an hour on the trainer...

Have fun,,, C

[Motobacon]

This is not related directly to this thread, but I have been riding my trainer to the Chris Carmichael Mt. Bike training video and Wow....it will make you work your butt off:yield: . I recommend trying out the video. Maybe we can have a trainer training day on one of our rainy days.

[Paddlechris]

We can get a bunch of people on trainers together for a race... or to watch a movie...

I know a few guys that do that already...

[Reedly]

:fencing: I totally agree with this!

I think a trainer training ride would be a blast!! Well, maybe just the fact that we'd actually be having a trainer training ride would make it awesome!!

If anyone's got the garage/basement/whatever space to do this, I'm in!!!

:fencing:

[Chewieez]

I'm in if there is ever an extra trainer...

[jjscarf]

:chewie0ol: eez I have an extra trainer and rollers and a basement. My TV is small but who wants a blown up picture of Carmichael anyhow? I prefer the mute button on him and blasting some Sublime or Killers. Let me know IO would be happy to host a small event 4-5 cyclists.

[Paddlechris]

IF inside is better than out, I would be in on a weekend... Sounds like fun..