Wind trainers operate using a large fan to offer the necessary resistance for your ride. The speed of the fan is driven by how fast (or slow) the rider pedals, the harder you ride, the faster the fan spins and the more resistance you get. This system is perhaps the most realistic for replicating riding on the road.
If you are looking to purchase a wind trainer, here are some things to consider:
- Strength of the unit – is the unit made with strong materials? Important consideration for your own safety.
- Progressive Resistance – Does the trainer offer progressive resistance? Is there an internal or external shifter? (Meaning do you control the resistance through shifting gears, or does the trainer control it through internal mechanisms)
- Weight of the fan – Linked to progressive resistance, the fan on the trainer is what controls the level of resistance offered, as mentioned above. The weight of the fan is something to bear in mind, as the heavier the fan, the harder you’ll have to work to get it going!
CycleOps Wind Indoor Bicycle Trainer
This wind trainer from CycleOps comes with everything you’d expect from something made by one of the industries household names. The fan doubles as a heavy flywheel, due to being die-cast from zinc. The fan’s blades are shaped into a vortex to offer progressive resistance and you’re in total control of how much resistance you want as the resistance changes whenever you shift gears.
Pros
Consumers applaud it’s solid frame.- Rider is given total control over how much or how little resistance is offered, without an external gear-shifting device.
- CycleOps makes use of virtual training software with this trainer, and it is included in your purchase.
- Comes with it’s own quick-release skewer.
Cons
- It’s difficult to find too many dissatisfied customers, a couple did complain about the noise-level, however most think it’s just fine.
Kinetic Cyclone Wind Trainer
The Kinetic Cyclone wind trainer is unique in it’s design, due to having dual flywheels, rather than the usual singular fan that you’ll see on most other indoor trainers. The fans act as flywheels (like they do on the CycleOps). It also fits a variety of wheel sizes and comes in Kurt Kinetic’s distinctive bright green colour.
Pros
- Unique dual flywheel design offering twice the level of potential resistance compared to other trainers.
- The largest flywheel sizes of any wind trainer.
- Fits 22” – 29” wheel sizes and up to 29” x 2.4 tyre size.
- Similar in progressive resistance to the CycleOps, however this offers wattage spanning from 5 to 1000 watts.
- Best for warm-up rides versus longer, more power-driven workouts.
Cons
- Some consumers noticed slight vibrations at low speed, and becomes noisier at higher speeds.
Sun 20” Wind Trainer for Bicycles
This indoor trainer is the first in our list to fit 20-inch wheels. This allows for those with smaller bikes to use it. It also comes with a more modest price tag than some other wind trainers. Due to the product being suitable for use by smaller bicycles, it also weighs much less – a very light 2lbs.
Pros
- Lightweight unit.
- Fits a smaller wheel size.
- Affordability for beginners.
Cons
- Some consumers report difficulty constructing the trainer due to the instructions.
- Reduced appeal for the road-riding crowd with large wheel sets.
Comparison Chart
| Wind Trainer | Ease of Setup | Noise Level | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
SUN 20” Wind Trainer | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | Check Price |
Kinetic Cyclone Wind Trainer | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | Check Price |
CycleOps Wind Trainer | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★★ | Check Price |
If you’re in the market for a wind trainer, but aren’t looking to spend an arm and a leg, then either the SUN, or the CycleOps might be right up your alley. Or, if you’re looking for top of the line quality, then the Kinetic Cyclone might be more to your liking. We hope this guide is helping in choosing the best wind bike trainer for you.
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