Anyone know of a noticable difference between the $99 Nashbar trainer and the $260 Cyclops or Kurt? Surely there is some difference, but it would seem that for recreational fitness use, the Nashbar is a fine unit.
The Kurt is a cut above the Performance/Nashbar fluid units. Worth it to me, since I’m on the trainer a decent amount during the winter. A MUCH more realistic “road-like feel” to it vs. the others.
If yer not willing to pony up the difference, the Perf/Nash (identical other than the label, Since Perf owns both companies now, along w/ Supergo too) fluid unit is a terrific one for the $.
DO NOT get a magnetic trainer, go for the fluid ones. And, I had major issues w/ the mag/fluid adjustable trainer, so I honestly think the lower level basic, non-adjustable hydraulic one is the better one to get.
I have heard that the cheaper fluid trainers tend to leak after a while, while the Kurt Kinetic is specifically designed not to leak. The fluid is sealed inside a plastic container with the impeller and is driven by magnets through the case. Other cheaper ones just use a straight shaft and a seal to keep the fluid in. IMHO the Kurt design is hands down superior. Kurt also unconditionally warentees their trainers. You break it, they fix it. Can’t beat that.
I live in MN, and I’m a weather wimp (no riding when it’s raining or below like 58…), so I spend a LOT of time on the trainer. And while I have ridden the Kurt and Cyclops, I’d never go out and buy one. IMO, it’s just not worth the $. I can spend that extra $150 on something else, for sure.
I have two trainers from Nashbar. Always on sale. And even when they’re not, they’re reasonably priced. Agian, I ride mine enough to justify a “nicer” trainer…but I stick w/ my two nashbars. They were cheap, are quiet, and have been totally reliable. I have the '05 version of this one:http://www.nashbar.com/profile.cfm?category=123&subcategory=1087&brand=&sku=15410&storetype=&estoreid=&pagename=
I also have this one:http://www.nashbar.com/profile.cfm?category=123&subcategory=1087&brand=&sku=15431&storetype=&estoreid=&pagename=
There is also a fluid w/out the hand held resistance dealywhop. http://www.nashbar.com/profile.cfm?category=123&subcategory=1087&brand=&sku=15409&storetype=&estoreid=&pagename=
And contrary to some people, I LIKE my mag. Like I said, it’s quiet, and reliable…and I kind of like the feel. In all honesty, if I could only have one, I think I’d prefer that one. I do, however, split my time about equally on them–my road bike is on my fluid and my tri bike on the mag.
something to keep in mind is the excellent customer service provided by Kurt Kinetic. any part under warranty will be sent to you no questions asked, which is something I discovered recently after stupidly stripping the L bolt.
I’ve been using on of the performance fluid trainers that is usually in the 130-160 dollar range. The model has changed a little but they were the ones that are the same as the elite brand. I’ve had it for four years now and about 90 percent of my riding has been on the trainer including some 5+ hour rides. I haven’t had any problems. It’s been very quiet so I could watch the telly. After probably close to 1000 hours on the thing the roller is starting to show some wear. I didn’t want to spend more than I needed for quality. I heard from a friend that he got a cyclops off of ebay for under 200 (new).
I have used a Performance fluid type trainer for about 4 years. It is solid and shows no signs of leaking. The electronics which gave speed, distance, watts and elevation climbed, quit about a year ago.
KURT!!! Used all the ones you mentioned. Kurt, hands down.