Indoor Trainer Setup - Advice

gurjsd

Hey Guy and Gals,

Up until now, I've been using a dedicated bike at my local gym (it has pace, power etc) for most if not all my bike training. I've just spent the weekend cleaning out my garage, and now have finally made space to set up my own mini gym. Meaning, i can now set up my turbo trainer.

 

Question to all is, how do you set up a trainer, so that I can at least get the minimum data. For example, I just want to know the speed I'm going at. My bike has the basics in terms of computer - just a cadence sensor and a front wheel speed sensor. Has anyone put the speed sensor on the back wheel to get an indication of speed?

 

When using a indoor trainer, do you rely more on cadence and heart rate to give you an indication of effort?

 

Furthermore, If i wanted to get a complete setup in my garage, what do you fellow EN'ers recommend I get for my bike (power meter, computers etc) without breaking the bank balance.

 

Im pretty new to the indoor training scene, as i've always used the bikes at the gym - however i did get a tacx trainer as a present, but just require a little knowledge from of you seasonal users of a trainer.

 

Thanks in advance

G

Al Truscott

Speed/distance are meaningless in terms of what we are trying to accomplish while training. It's basically Effort x Time. Intervals at prescribed length and intensity. So either HR or Watts for effort, and time, well anything that will give you intervals will work. You can get by with a minimum set up of an HR watch which has a lap button, or you can get a lot fancier for more and more $$, depending n your budget. What model Tacx do you have?

gurjsd

Many thanks for your reply Al. I've an older Tacx booster, and just looking at the moment If i can somehow make it a 'smart' device - dont think i'm going to have much luck on that front.

Think I will have to go with your best advice, and rely on the lap button and HR rate strap for the time being. However, I am being tempted (just browsing at the moment) at some of Tacx smart trainers. Would love to get on Zwift.

rlh2000

Virtual power on TrainerRoad! Sounds like you might have the components you need already, if not, none of them are too pricey to break the bank.

https://www.trainerroad.com/virtual-power

gurjsd

Fantastic link Rachel. Think, all i would need is a Garmin/similar speed cadence senor to put on the back wheel. This is a possible solution by the looks of things.

Chris Davis

Some trainer manufacturers have a published curve that correlates speed to power. Here's the one for the Kinetic Road Machine:

https://kurtkinetic.com/technical-information/resistance-types/fluid-resistance/

You might see if your turbo trainer's manufacturer has something similar. If so, you can use that curve to back into your power numbers with just your speed sensor, assuming you can move that sensor to your back wheel, and collect the data.

On that front, does your speed sensor have a way to connect to a smart phone? If so, you may look at one of the phone apps to collect the data.

David Leventhal

Agree with the posts above. I think the virtual power is a great place to start. It'll give you something consistent to judge your improvement. But...be warned! Virtual power via TrainerRoad is the gateway drug to a power meter...so start saving your pennies! For me personally, of all the triathlon equipment I've purchased the power meter has been the single most beneficial tool for helping me improve.

Tom Glynn

A good trainer, TrainerRoad (TR), heart rate monitor, power meter if you can afford it - otherwise speed/cadence sensor for TR to work. Music of some sort. Sufferferst videos to make TR even better. Large TV screen to make TR even better. Rubber mat for sweat accumulation . Room for friends to join you

Chris Davis

In addition to Tom's list, a towel (or hand towel works better) to drape over your handle bars and keep sweat off your bike. And also to wipe said sweat off your bike afterwards.

David Leventhal

And let's not forget a fan! A big 'ole fan that you can stick right in your face. You'd be surprised the difference it makes in your wko having consistent air blowing on you.

gurjsd

Thanks to everyone who contributed to this thread...i've decided to take the plunge, and ordered a Smart Trainer My new toy shoudl arrive in the next few days. I went and ordered a Taxc Vortex Smart trainer, and cant wait to hook it up to the interwebs.

Which leads me to another debate...Trainerroad vs Zwift...
Going to try having a trial with both, but would also love to get opinions.

Think the garage is going to become my second bedroom.

robin sarner

can just use Wahoo app from smart phone to dial in watts.  quick and easy.

Sue Chapman

Personally, Trainer Road is the way to go. EN workouts are on it, you can customize your own workouts, it will track your career, and integrates with Training Peaks if you have that program. You can also purchase the Sufferfest videos and they integrate with Trainer Road (there is usually one that fits closely with our workouts) and I think Strava. I've used Zwift in beta, months ago, and think TF is much more advanced. However, many people simply use their power meters and listen to music/watch movies. My 2 cents.

Tom Glynn

+1 for Sue's comments on TR

rlh2000

My hack- wrap your top tube and handlebars in Glad Press 'n Seal wrap (or normal saran wrap would probably work too) to protect your bike from your sweat!

gurjsd

Excellent contribution guys! Really appreciate the input, and as TR is more specific to the work we do here at EN, it makes sense to opt for that. Just want to make the indoor cycling scene as enjoyable as possible, otherwise, id probably find it boring and give up.

Got towels and saran wrap at the ready!