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Free roll
They are the classic way to ride "on the spot". The complete wheel is simply placed on the three rollers and the roller set-up is ready. The length adjustment allows the device to be adapted to the respective wheelbase. Starting off is particularly difficult without a holding mechanism and a good sense of balance is an advantage. You can also put your gravel bike on the roller, but the profiled tyres can cause vibrations and roll louder. Simple free rollers cost around 160 euros, but are now used almost exclusively for warming up before competitions.
There are now also a few smart and semi-free devices with variable resistance that can be paired with training apps via ANT+ and Bluetooth. These include, for example, the Elite Nero for 849 euros (>> available here) or the Wahoo Kickr Rollr for 600 euros (pictured). They combine a natural riding experience with software compatibility. As they are powered by your own wheel, they require no additional parts and hardly any assembly work. Up to ten per cent simulated gradient and a maximum output power of 1500 watts are possible. An additional power meter is required to measure the pedalling power in Crank handle or Pedals.
Wheel-On-Trainer
Now largely replaced by direct drive devices, the concept still has fans due to the lower purchase costs. The rear wheel remains in the racer so that power can be transmitted directly to the device via the tyre. To minimise wear and noise, a special training tyre is recommended. If you often switch between outdoors and indoors with the same bike, you will benefit from a second wheel.
The device concept is not ideal for very high power peaks during intensive sprints due to the potential slippage. The rear wheel roller also cannot keep up with the accuracy of a direct drive. This is less relevant for basic rides. Simple wheel-on trainers without app compatibility start at 250 euros. For 100 euros more, you can buy the Garmin Tacx Flow Smart, for example (>> available here), which can translate the training into software such as My Whoosh or Zwift. Thanks to the compact flywheel, the device remains relatively light and can be stored in a space-saving manner.
Roller trainers with direct drive
These roller trainers are "state of the art". Rear wheel out, device in. High compatibility and measurement accuracy enable serious racing.
Elite Direto XR-T
Affordable and powerful, the Direto opens up the world of smart direct drive training to beginners. Like all current devices, it can also be used on mountain bikes with Boost rear triangles and large cassettes using adapters. With 2300 watts of maximum braking power and up to 24 per cent gradient simulation, you can train to your heart's content. The measurement accuracy of 1.5 per cent comes close to the best values. This is absolutely sufficient for amateur athletes. Neighbours will appreciate the quiet operating noise. Price 599 euros.
To be honest, you don't really need more roller trainers. The price-performance ratio should appeal to many cyclists. - Jan Timmermann, Editor
Wahoo Kickr Moove
The Kickr has already blossomed into a direct drive classic. Now in its sixth expansion stage, Wi-Fi connectivity and a new odometer enable data to be recorded precisely and transmitted quickly. Inaccuracies should be reduced to a deviation of one per cent. A maximum inclination simulation of 20 per cent and 2200 watts of peak power are possible. In the Move version, an additional axis of movement simulates the acceleration and braking of the bike, which should make the riding experience even more realistic. Price 1600 Euro >> e.g. available here at a reduced price.
The additional forward-reverse tilt function of the Wahoo Kickr Move offers a new approach to a realistic riding experience. - Sandra Schuberth, Editor
Garmin Tacx Neo 3M Smart
The top model from Garmin promises high accuracy in power, speed and cadence with deviations of less than one per cent. With a 25 per cent maximum incline and a 2200 watt peak, the legs can be trained for extreme sprints. The mobile device is designed to make the riding experience as realistic as possible, even gravel tracks can be simulated. Like Elite and Wahoo, Tacx also provides its own training app with an interface to third-party software. Price 1999 Euro >> e.g. available here
The simulation of different surfaces is an interesting new feature of the Tacx Neo 3M Smart. Racers appreciate the accuracy of the Tacx. - Marc Strucken, Editor
Smart bikes
Stable and fully equipped luxury version - if you have the space for it.
Zwift Ride
As good as direct drive trainers are, a bike always has to be "repurposed". Software specialist Zwift therefore has a chassis in its range that can remain on the trainer, costs less than a real bike and is optimised for indoor training. Buttons within easy reach enable steering and navigation in the virtual environment. Even gear changes are simulated electronically and are completely silent. A tablet holder is optional. Thanks to its comprehensive adjustability, Zwift Ride is designed to fit heights from 1.52 to 1.98 metres. It is also easy to switch between several users. In the living room, we were impressed by the sturdy feel and high-quality look. Price: 799 euros (1299 euros incl. Wahoo Kickr Core).
Tacx Neo Bike Plus
Elaborately designed indoor bikes such as the €3999 Tacx offer a completely unique riding and training experience. All simulations are already on board: ascents and descents, airstream, various surfaces from ice to cobblestones with vibration function, shifting logic according to preferred manufacturer and with freely selectable, virtual cassette. The smart device eagerly collects training data such as speed, cadence, power and pedalling analysis. Thanks to the display and additional tablet holder including charging socket, animations and all figures are always in view. The measurement accuracy and peak performance of the stationary bike are at the same top level as the Tacx Neo 3M Smart direct drive trainer. However, you first have to have the space to set up the 50-kilogramme device. The Tacx Neo Bike Plus is, for example available at a reduced price at Rosebikes.
Roller trainer accessories
Sure, you can just buy a roller and start training. But the experience is better with the right accessories.
Elite Rizer
With the fork attached, the Rizer raises and lowers the front end on virtual climbs (up to 20 per cent incline) and descents (up to 10 per cent). Indoor bikers can hardly get closer to the feeling of travelling up and downhill. Price 769 euros >> available here.
Fan: Wahoo Kickr Headwind
Almost as important for extended training sessions as the smart trainer itself. The smart fan can be controlled by heart rate or speed and blows at up to 48 km/h. Price 279.99 euros >> e.g. at Amazon or Bike Components available.
Tracksuit: The Aeroready Onesie from Adidas
Specially developed for high-intensity indoor workouts, the one-piece wicks away heat and sweat. Breathable mesh inserts and an integrated seat pad promise comfort even during long sessions. Price 140 euros at Adidas or Sports cheque available.
Roller trainer shoes: The Nike Super Rep Cycle 2
Of course, the market also has special shoes for roller training. Air-permeable upper material improves cooling, a stiff sole improves power transmission. Price 129.95 euros >> available here.
Jan Timmermann
Editor
