Bring your indoor training to a different level with one of the newest trainers on the scene, the Ascent Fluid Trainer. This fluid resistance unit offers progressive and intense strength training that will make your muscles feel the workout burn in a matter of minutes!
When looking for the perfect stationary bike stand, one of the first things that you need to consider is whether to buy a fluid bike trainer, or a magnetic bike trainer (you could also go with a wind trainer, but we’d steer clear if you need something quieter). One of the primary differences between the two is their levels of resistance; fluid trainers typically come with a wider range of resistance levels, which can be progressively integrated into your daily training.
And with the Ascent Fluid trainer coming in at well under $150, it’s one of the best value fluid trainers out there – with decent levels of resistance – that your money can purchase.
Check out the BEST deals on this Ascent trainer on AmazonWhat we liked about the Ascent trainer
One of my priorities in finding a trainer is to ensure it does the job; I want to train hard sometimes (and I know you do too!) and therefore need some decent resistance levels to get my heart pumping.
I’ve tested and own many great trainers, but was looking for something a little cheaper than the superb Fluid 2 from CycleOps or even the Cascade Fluid Pro. They’re great trainers, don’t get me wrong, it’s just that I was looking for something a little cheaper. For a while, the market didn’t seem to budge lower than $250 for a good fluid trainer, but then I came across the Ascent Fluid trainer. To be honest, the price tag first grabbed my attention, but after testing it out and seeing some of the happy online reviews about it, it wasn’t just the price that won me over…
For a start, the Ascent trainer has the resistance and power that I need for intense riding sessions. It also comes fully assembled, which is a plus since I hate to assemble trainers at the best of times. I’ve become a bit of a pro getting them all setup, but for those of you purchasing your first trainer, be prepared for some user manuals that aren’t always the easiest to follow. That’s why the Ascent might be right up your alley, what with its pre-assembled setup.
The main winning features of the Ascent Fluid trainer
- This trainer is probably the most budget friendly fluid trainer out there. It offers top quality training sessions for at a very affordable price, so you don’t have to compensate for quality over your budget.
- Easy access gears for changing resistance levels allows you to easily control the level of training. This process was made hassle free to keep you in “the moment” during training.
- No assembly required. The trainer comes completely assembled. All you have to do is to slide in the skewer inside your rear wheel, then fix the bike so it fits inside the trainer. You’re then ready to rock and roll!
- Equipped with a fluid resistance unit, which contains a steel flywheel, ensuring smooth and quiet training sessions. Note that it is recommended to use a slick training tire for your indoor sessions, since mountain bike treads can create a certain amount of noise and friction.
- Portable and foldable. Can be easily folded away, allowing you to save space by easily storing it away in between training sessions, or if you wish to move it somewhere else.
- Stability is guaranteed with the attached rubber feet. This feature also helps in reducing the impact of the vibrations you will likely experience during intense sessions.
Things to take into consideration…
The build that you would expect from a fluid trainer costing over $100 is simple, heavy, and sturdy. But when it comes to measurements made during the frame’s production, the fluid wheel’s rests are slightly off and you might need to support one corner with some towels so that it doesn’t rock back and forth. It is also quite in very easy gears, but can produce powerful vibrations when you switch it into a higher gear. You won’t be able to feel these vibrations, but you will still be able to hear them throughout your house. The fluid wheel can also become really hot during interval sessions, even with heat fins on the casing.
Value for money?
The Ascent Fluid Trainer is definitely a good deal for around $130. Some issues commonly associated with many trainers (see above) are also present even in some of the expensive models, so those ‘bugs’ are not really a big deal.
I truly enjoyed training with the Ascent Fluid trainer, I saw some great potential in it, especially if you’re looking to see your endurance levels improve. Recommended if you’re on the hunt for a great, budget-friendly fluid trainer!
