Keeping up with your training regimen during winter months is not a problem if you have an indoor trainer, and especially if you have one that gives progressive resistance, like the CycleOps Wind Trainer.
This trainer is a little different to some of the others we recommend – including awesome CycleOps beasts like the Fluid 2 and Super Magneto – since it’s built using tried and tested wind technology and uses a vortex blade to generate wind resistance (you might want to see this article on the different types of trainer available).
As you shift gears and increase your speed, the resistance increases progressively. You can choose the level of resistance that you want while working out, and if you want to test your stamina, you can set it to give more than 600 watts of resistance. That’s pretty handy for those of you intending on working on your stamina over the indoor season.
Find the latest and greatest discounts on the CycleOps Wind TrainerWhy you should consider the CycleOps Wind Trainer
The real clinchers for me were the simplicity of its design, which makes this trainer easy to handle; it is easy to get on and off the bike, and the frame folds into a compact size for easy storage.
The CycleOps Wind trainer is made of steel and metal alloys for durability, and guaranteed to last since there are only a few parts that are subject to wear and tear. In fact, CycleOps gives the unit a lifetime warranty, which means you’re guaranteed a good workout for as long as you want without worrying about cost. Certainly, there are only a few products around that give this assurance (we have to say, CycleOps definitely outperforms on service).
If you’ve got an uneven surface, don’t fret either, as the trainer is equipped with rubberized base pads that can even out these spots when you get on the bike. Since the quick release locking mechanism is adjustable, you can use it with both mountain and road bikes; the rear dropout spacing when you install the trainer can be adjusted to 135 mm, 130 mm, and 120 mm. As we always remind you, and in this case CycleOps also mention it, install trainer tires when using the CycleOps Wind Trainer if you really want the best – and quietest – performance.
It is quite compact when folded, so you can easily store it in your basement or in the corner of your garage. Whenever you need it again (when that weather turns bad), just unfold it and attach your bike, and a good workout is just around the corner…
You might notice that the vortex blades of the fan generate considerable noise as you pedal on your bike (this is the real downer of wind trainers). You may even feel the fan vibration in your bike seat. The noise and vibration may be disturbing at first, but you should get used to it as you head deeper into your workout (and you have a good pair of earphones pumping out some decent tunes).
The CycleOps Wind Trainer’s main features
- It is made of 2-inch, 16-gauge steel for durability and has rubber coated base pads that can even out slight bumps on the floor.
- The vortex fan blades are made of die cast zinc that also act as a heavy flywheel, which provides smoother resistance and makes your ride more realistic. It provides a steady and progressive resistance, and can generate up to more than 600 watts of power.
- It provides progressive wind resistance that you can easily change by shifting your bike gears.
- The quick release locking mechanism can accommodate both mountain and road bikes, with adjustable rear dropout spacing of 135 mm, 130 mm, and 120 mm.
- Folds into a compact size for easy storage (weighs just 18.5 pounds).
- It has a sturdy frame and has few parts that may be damaged by prolonged use.
- Comes with a lifetime warranty from the manufacturer.
CycleOps Wind Trainer Pros and Cons
The Pros
- Offers a great workout with wind resistance that can reach up to more than 600 watts. The resistance generated by the die cast zinc blades is steady, and the vortex blade design does not generate as much noise as other wind resistance trainers on the market (but yes, it still generates more noise than a standard fluid trainer).
- Easy to get on and off the bike, and can be used on uneven floors. You do not have to use a rubber mat since the trainer base legs are already rubberized.
- Made of durable material, and comes with a lifetime warranty from the manufacturer.
- Folds into a compact size for easy storage.
The Cons
We’re not huge fans of wind trainers, it has to be said. And when you take a closer look at this one from CycleOps, unfortunately we’re still left unconvinced. The fan blades generate considerable noise and cause the bike seat to vibrate, which many will find bothersome, though you can get used to it over time.
In addition, the resistance levels are sufficient to give a decent workout, but semi-serious bikers may find this limited.
Bang for your buck?
If you want a trainer that will give you a decent workout over a long period, and if you are not really bothered by noise while training, then the CycleOps Wind Trainer will give you great value for your money. It gives a decent workout without the frills, and will perform well for as long as you need it, backed by the superb name and service of CycleOps.
