05.12.2023 | Reading time - 17 min(s)

Turbo Trainer Buying Guide

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It is that time of year again when the many people put their bikes away due to the cold, snow, ice and other adverse weather conditions that winter brings. This does not need to put a stop to your cycling as you have the option to move your training indoors with cycling turbo trainers. These can be a great way to keep your fitness up or provide a way to train regardless of how bad the weather is outside.

This is your guide to all things turbo trainers from the benefits of moving your training indoors to all the different types of trainers and the benefits of each one. From this information, it will provide a guide to the best turbo trainers or smart trainers for you.

If you are debating whether to invest in good winter cycle clothing and keep training outdoors or to move your training indoors with a good quality turbo trainer then we have a blog that discusses the benefits to training outdoors and the benefits of training indoors. See our Turbo Trainer vs Winter Cycling Clothing blog here.

Contents and Quick Links

Benefits of a Turbo Trainer
Different Types of Turbo Trainer
Key Features to consider
Our Top Turbo Trainers

Benefits of a turbo trainer

Cycling turbo trainers offer several benefits, making them a popular choice among cyclists when the weather turns and it is less tempting to keep riding outdoors. Here are some of the main benefits of a turbo trainer.:

Convenience: Indoor cycling with a turbo trainer eliminates the need to venture outdoors, making it convenient, especially in unfavorable weather conditions or during time constraints. If you train indoors during winter, you will be less likely to have to buy more cold and wet weather specific cycling kit.
Consistency: With a turbo trainer, you can maintain a consistent workout environment, controlling factors like terrain and weather, allowing you to focus on specific training goals with the vast array of training apps and software available.
Time Efficiency: You can achieve a highly effective workout in a shorter time due to focused intervals or structured training sessions without interruptions from traffic or stoplights.
Safety: Indoor cycling eliminates the risks associated with outdoor winter riding, such as slippery road conditions due to ice and fallen leaves.
Training Specifics: Turbo trainers offer the ability to conduct structured training sessions, intervals, power-based workouts, or follow training programs precisely, aiding in improving strength, endurance, and overall cycling performance. Some training apps allow you to cycle with friends or groups to help with motivation.

Some training software os so advanced, you can choose the specific discipline you are training for and focus on developing the correct muscles for this. Some of the choices include - training for a 100 mile cycle, sprint training, endurance training or a mix of all disciplines for your all rounder.
Multi-Purpose Use: They're versatile and suitable for various types of cyclists, including beginners, enthusiasts, and professional athletes, adapting to different fitness levels and training regimens.
Monitoring and Metrics: Many modern turbo trainers come with integrated sensors and connectivity to training apps, allowing cyclists to monitor metrics like power, speed, cadence, and heart rate for better training analysis and improvement.

Smart turbo trainers will guage your base fitness levels in order to have a starting point for any training so you can build or maintain your levels.
Year-Round Training: Turbo trainers enable cyclists to train year-round, maintaining fitness levels during off-seasons or when outdoor conditions aren't favorable for cycling. And we don't have to tell you; in the UK, unfavourable conditions can happen all year round.
Reduced Wear and Tear: Indoor cycling reduces wear and tear on your bike compared to outdoor riding, as it eliminates exposure to harsh environmental elements and, more importantly, it reduces exposure of your bike to salted roads that can eat through a groupset in no time at all.

Quick tip: on your turbo trainer, invest in a sweat cover as sweat can drip down onto your bike and cause rust and damage even when indoors.
Quick Tip 2: It is a good idea to invest in a turbo trainer tyre on the wheel-on trainers. It is not necessary to change tyres on a direct drive turbo trainer.
Community and Competition: Many turbo trainers are compatible with virtual cycling platforms like Zwift, allowing cyclists to participate in virtual races, group rides, and connect with a global cycling community.

In summary, the benefits of cycling turbo trainers offer convenience, safety, precise training control, and the ability to monitor and improve performance metrics, making them a valuable tool for cyclists aiming to enhance their skills, fitness levels, and overall cycling performance.

Different types of turbo trainer

Choosing the best turbo trainer can be a bit of a minefield as there are so many diffferent options available, all offering slightly different options for different budgets and training needs. Here, we will go through all the different options to help you find the best turbo trainers for your specific requirements.

The two main types

Broadly speaking, there are two main types of turbo trainers - wheel on turbo trainer or smart turbo trainer.

Wheel on turbo trainer

A wheel on turbo trainer is where you mount the whole bike on to the turbo trainer, rear wheel and all and is locked in by the rear axle. The rear wheel of the bicycle makes contact with a flywheel mounted on the trainer and your pedalling motion turns the rear wheel and , in turn, the flywheel. This is where the resistance from the trainer comes from and even the most basic of turbo traiiners will have a resistance adjustment so you can go harder or easier depending on the training you are doing.

Wheel-on trainers do not have the ability to measure input so if you are interested in the numbers or to keep track of your training, you will have to invest in a speed sensor for measuring your speed, power meters if you want to measure power or your functional threshhold power (incredibly useful metric for designing training plans) or a cadence sensor for measuring your cadence. You can, of course use a combination of all of these sensors as well as a heart rate monitor to get the most from your wheel-on turbo trainer.

You can still change the resistance on the go on a wheel on trainer and you would do this by changing the gears on your bike.

These turbo trainers are generally on the less expensive end of the scale.

Smart turbo trainer (Direct drive turbo trainers)

Smart turbo trainers are different from wheel-on trainers as you take the rear wheel off of your bike and mount it onto the turbo trainer. These are also known as 'direct drive smart trainers' due to the fact that your mount your bike onto a turbo trainer fitted with a cassette to match your bikes groupset. The reason these are known as smart trainers is that most of the metrics required for your training are measured by the smart turbo trainer. This includes speed and power and are measured to a high accuracy.

Screenshot_2022-10-12_at_11.23.13.jpg

Key Features to consider

We will now go on to look at more differences factors to consider when choosing your perfect turbo trainer.

Interactivity

One of the really big differences between a wheel on trainer and a smart turbo trainer is the ability to connect to training apps and software. Once connected to this software, the programme is able to adjust the resistance for you to fit a selected training programme or if you are using an interactive software, such as Zwift, the turbo trainer and software will adjust the resistance to simulate different gradients so you could potentially cycle your favourite hill climb in the comfort of your own home.

Gradient

When choosing a smart turbo trainer, different price points will give you different options. One of these differences is the maximum gradient simulation the trainer can manage. Smart turbo trainers on the lower end of the market will have a maximum gradient of 10% while some of the best smart trainers give up to 25% maximum gradients.

Non-smart turbo trainers do not have the ability to adjust gradient but you can adjust resistance by changing the gears.

Power

If you would like to measure power on your wheel on trainer, you would have to invest in a power meter in order to do this. Power meters would be a good choice if you had training based software such as Trainerroad but would not provide the interactivity for open-world cycling such as Zwift.

Our advice if you are thinking about a non-smart turbo trainer with a power meter would be to check out the prices of this compared to a lower-priced smart trainer as the difference might not be as much as you think due to the prices of power meters.

Power measurement on a smart trainer is a similar idea to gradient - the higher the model, the more power the turbo trainers can deal with. For example, one of the lower priced Tacx smart trainers can handle up to 1500 watts of power whereas the top of the line Tacx Neo Smart turbo trainer can handle up to 2200 watts. The difference here is a lot but for most mere mortals, a maximum of 1500 watts will usually be more than enough... unless your name is Chris Hoy or Mark Cavendish.

One more feature on the top smart turbo trainers is power distribution of each indidual leg. The best smart trainers will give you a breakdown of the power from each leg so you can potentially foocus on building up one leg over the other if there is a discrepancy between the power given by one over the other. Some turbo trainers will also provide you a visual aid to determine where in the pedal stroke the power is coming in so you can look to maximise the power from the whole of the stroke.

Budget

Budget is one of the other big differences between turbo trainers. Prices for turbo trainers can start from as little as £99 but can go to over £1000 for the best smart trainers. Wheel on turbo trainers will sit between £99 and around £500 for the more advanced models whereas a cheap smart trainer will start around the £600 mark.

Wear and tear

Another consideration (and another top tip later) is the toll the different options (wheel on and direct drive smart trainers) have on your bike. The main one is the wear and tear on the rear tyre. Because a wheel on smart turbo trainer requires the rear tyre to be in contact with a drum, the friction that allows this turbo trainer to be efffective will also wear through your tyre. And it will wear through a tyre very quickly - if you haven't seen it for yourself, you will probably not believe us how quickly it will wear through an outdoor tyre. Here is where our top tip comes in - it is absolutely worth investing in a specific turbo trainer tyre as these are made of a more robust material to slow down the speed that the tyre wears through.

Another top tip arising from wear and tear is to buy yourself a bike cover to prevent sweat dripping down onto your bike because sweat (salt) will wear through your gears and drivetrain very quickly.

Our top turbo trainers

We stock a wide range of turbo trainers from wheel on trainers up to the top of the line direct drive smart trainer. Here, we will have an in depth look at the best ones available online.

Tacx Boost Trainer

Here, we have a classic wheel on trainer that is compatible with quick release bicycles only. Once you have fitted the specific rear quick release skewer, it is incredibly simple to fit and remove your bike from this sturdy turbo trainer. This model comes with a handlebar lever to udjust resistance unit with 10 resistance settings to choose from. This turbo can handle up to 1050 watts of power.

Pros of this model

You won’t need external power to use this indoor trainer so you can set this up in your own home, garage or shed without worrying about being near a power socket.
This is an inexpensive way to bring cycling training indoors.
A simple lever on your handlebar lets you control the resistance; 10 levels, up to 1,050 watts.
The closed resistance unit reduces noise and makes for a smoother ride.
Super simple setup. Once the specific rear quick release skewer is installed, it’s ready in two clicks
Front wheel support is included for a level and secure set up.
Adding the optional extra of a speed sensor means you can connect to your favourite cycling apps.

Cons of this model

No access to power figures without adding an expensive power meter

Does not allow gradient simulation

Will wear through your rear tyre if you do not buy a specific turbo trainer tyre.

Elite Tuo Interactive Trainer

Elite Tuo Interactice Cycling Trainer.jpg

A new brand of turbo trainer at Edinburgh Bicyle Coop and a new generation of interactive FE-C wheel-on turbo trainer from Elite. Tuo has taken 20 years of Italian in-house design and manufacturing experience and applies them to create the most innovative and refined wheel on-trainer they have ever produced

A fully custom drive unit, powerful enough to produce a maximum of 2,050 watts at 60 KM/H and replicate inclines of up to 10%, quiet, strong and smooth, the Tuo performs in all situations

The data from the drive unit is used to calculate the power readings with a certified power accuracy of 3% variance

To improve the vibration damping of the trainer, the front legs are made from sustainably farmed European beech which is treated to repel moisture and requires no special care
The Tuo communicates via Bluetooth or ANT+ and can be used with a whole host of desktop or mobile based software platforms, such as Zwift and Trainer Road
Includes a 12 month subscription to Elite's fully featured My E-training app for P.C. iOS or Android
The ElastoGel roller has improved tyre grip, lower noise and vibration damping
UK power supply included
Works with any ANT or Bluetooth heart rate belt (not included)
Includes rear thru axle adaptor for those using 142 x 12 disc brake frames and a spare Q/R for those using Mavic or similar non-compatible Q/R skewers

Tacx Flux 2 Smart Trainer T2980

tacx-flux-2-direct-drive-smart-trainer-internal-black-t2980.jpg

The Tacx Flux inherits many of the top of the line Tacx Neo Smart Trainer features - direct drive and electro brake - but at a more affordable price.

The iconic FLUX Smart has been upgraded to the FLUX 2 Smart. Compared to its predecessor, it is equipped with a bigger and stronger resistance unit and a heavier flywheel. This resulted in a wider simulation range, better ride feel and a more accurate power measurement.

Measuring and receiving performance data - measures speed, cadence and power and transmit this via ANT+ and Bluetooth Smart to your device(s)
Open wireless communication with Tacx phone App and third party apps such as Garmin Connect
The trainer's smart features require a wall socket power source.
Standalone training - alternatively, you can use the Tacx Flux as a regular home trainer that simulates riding on the flat when there is no convenient power source
Tacx's heaviest flywheel helps create a more realistic rhythmic ride and overcomes the 'choppy' feel you might experience on a less sophisticated trainer
Eight strong electro magnets generate up to 2000 Watts
Dial in any level of resistance that is humanly possible
Suitable axles - Width of rear fork: Race 130 mm, MTB 135 mm, 142 mm & 148 mm. Adapter for 135 x 10 mm available.
Suitable cassettes - Shimano & SRAM: 8 t/m 11 speed. Campagnolo body sold separately
Supplied with Quick release for road bikes and mountain bikes (5mm) , Direct drive quick release with adapter set 142x12mm , 1 month Tacx Premium software

Key Features

This trainer can handle sprints up to 2,000 watts.
Work up a sweat with inclines up to 16% that hold up to your most serious sprints.
Accuracy matters. Measure your power to within 2.5%.

Tacx Flux 2 Smart Trainer Bundle

Tacx Flux 2 Smart Turbo Trainer.jpg

This is the same turbo trainer as above but adds a lot of value by including a heart rate monitor for accurately measuring your heart rate that is incredibly useful in determining calories burned and for keeping track of your fitness levels.

As well as the HRM, this comes with a training mat to protect your carpet or floor and 6 months free Tacx Premium subscription. You can read more about the Tacx training apps here.

Tacx Flux S Smart Trainer Bundle Offer

Another variation of the Tacx Flux S but this time it comes with the added value of;

Garmin HRM Dual heart rate monitor and strap for measuring heart rate, calories burned and for keeping track of your fitness progress.
2 Garmin Tacx water bottles for use while using the turbo trainer or cycling outdoors.
6 month Tacx Premium App Subscription - for more on the Tacx App Features, see here.

Tacx Neo 2T Smart Trainer Bundle Offer

Tacx Neo 2t Smart Cycle Trainer.jpg

The ultimate indoor trainer and now incredible value added in the Bundle Offer. Not only do you get the best of the best turbo trainers, you get loads thrown in too. First, a bit about the trainer itself.

Redesigned magnets have significantly reduced the internal air displacement and vibrations, resulting in a remarkably silent trainer.
NEO 2T Smart Turbo Trainer reacts instantly to speed or incline changes and allows for movement to the left and right while cycling, following the natural course of your body.
To simulate an outdoor ride indoors, dynamic inertia controls mass inertia and compensates for weight, speed and angle of inclination to make your ride feel more realistic.
This feature works with Tacx Training™ software or the Zwift app to make the trainer vibrate and simulate the feeling of riding on different road surfaces, such as cobblestone and gravel.
When connected to an external power source, descent simulation accurately simulates a downhill drive.
NEO 2T Smart Turbo Trainer features a new motor design that delivers more power at low speeds, resulting in a highly improved ride feel during a climb or acceleration.
32 integrated neodymium magnets allow for a high brake force and high power levels. NEO 2T Smart Turbo Trainer ensures maximum stability, even during explosive sprints, up to 2,200 watts.
Get the most out of your intense workouts by training on realistically simulated inclines up to a 25% gradient.
NEO 2T Smart Turbo Trainer communicates via Bluetooth® Smart technology and ANT+® FE-C protocol, so it works with a number of popular training apps such as TrainerRoad and Zwift.
You can opt to use the trainer in stand-alone mode. When not connected, it will simulate a flat road; the faster you ride, the higher the resistance.
Connect NEO 2T Smart Turbo Trainer to multiple devices simultaneously, so you can enjoy Tacx Training™ software and track your performance on your Garmin bike computer at the same time.
Keep track of your performance and progress with reliable, consistent measurements — no calibration needed. That includes power, speed and cadence, measured accurately within 1%.
See pedal stroke stats on your app or Edge® bike computer.
It’s the closest thing to riding outdoors you’ll ever find indoors.
You don’t have to miss the feel of the road. It’s right here.
Redesigned magnets have significantly reduced the internal air displacement and vibrations, resulting in a remarkably silent trainer.
NEO 2T direct drive turbo trainers reacts instantly to speed or incline changes and allows for movement to the left and right while cycling, following the natural course of your body.
To simulate an outdoor ride indoors, dynamic inertia controls mass inertia and compensates for weight, speed and angle of inclination to make your ride feel more realistic.
This feature works with Tacx TrainingT software or the Zwift app to make the trainer vibrate and simulate the feeling of riding on different road surfaces, such as cobblestone and gravel.
When connected to an external power source, descent simulation accurately simulates a downhill drive.

As mentioned, there is a ton of added value when you opt for the bundle. This option includes:

Tacx Trainer Motion Plates

Multidirectional movement mimics the feel of an outdoor ride and you’re ready to ride in moments. These easy-to-install motion plates snap right on so you can adopt a more natural riding position to stay engaged and train more effectively. Ride with confidence on secure and balanced motion plates.
Garmin HRM Dual heart rate monitor and strap

Premium heart rate strap gives real-time heart rate data over ANT+® connectivity and BLUETOOTH® L, giving you more options whether you like to train indoors or outdoors . With it, you'll be able to consistently receive accurate heart rate on your Garmin device, in online training apps such as Zwift or even the compatible fitness equipment in your favourite class at the gym. So however you like to train, you'll get the accurate, real-time heart rate you need to take your performance to the next level.
Tacx trainer towel
2 Garmin Tacx water bottles
6 month Tacx Premium App Subscription - for more on the Tacx Premium Features, see here.

Tacx Training App

tacx app.jpg

As we can see above, a number of the direct drive smart trainer bundles above come with the Tacx Training App so we thought it worth giving an overview of the app itself.

Training Films

The Tacx App releases high quality training films regularly and these include riding the Alps and spring cycling classics for an immersive experience.

Ride routes you have already done

By uploading or creating routes through the Garmin Connect App, you can ride local roads or previous favourite rides.

Performance Data

While on your ride, the app displays the usual metrics such as speed, cadence, power and heart rate and are all uploaded to the Garmin Connect app for detailed analysis and comparison to previous bests.

Custom Workouts

Structure your own workouts based depending on how you want to structure your workouts with slope training, power or functional threshhold power to train or maintain.

Well, there you go - our ultimate guide to wheel on trainers and direct drive trainers. We hope this has helped you in making an informed decision on which indoor trainers would be best for your training needs.

As always, our friendly team are available online or in any of our stores for any questions you may have or to help direct you towards the perfect product.

Our stores are in Newcastle, Leeds, Aberdeen and three shops in Edinburgh - Bruntsfield, Canonmills and a new store in Hamilton Place, Stockbridge.

Author

Ross Howieson

Content Creator

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Turbo Trainer Buying Guide

Benefits of a turbo trainer

Different types of turbo trainer

The two main types

Wheel on turbo trainer

Smart turbo trainer (Direct drive turbo trainers)

Key Features to consider

Interactivity

Gradient

Power

Budget

Wear and tear

Our top turbo trainers

Tacx Boost Trainer

Elite Tuo Interactive Trainer

Tacx Flux 2 Smart Trainer T2980

Tacx Flux 2 Smart Trainer Bundle

Tacx Flux S Smart Trainer Bundle Offer

Tacx Neo 2T Smart Trainer Bundle Offer

Tacx Training App