Spain – No cycling! Italy – No cycling! France – No cycling!
Words we never thought to see together in our wildest dreams. The Coronavirus Pandemic has forced governments to take drastic measures in order to reduce the spread of the disease. While the decision may be contentious for some, it hasn’t been made lightly. Us Brits are adamant that these strict regulations won’t reach our waters, however, I believe it would be naive to think that our Government won’t follow suit and introduce similar measures to what our European friends are experiencing. While they may differ slightly and be more lenient, it wouldn’t be surprising to hear that outdoor activities become limited and potentially banned temporarily. France, for example, is allowing it’s citizens to exercise outside, alone, within a 50-metre radius of their homes. Now, I don’t know about you, but cycling 50m up and down the road doesn’t scream ‘a great ride’ to me.
If the United Kingdom does adopt these measures it would be wise and responsible to adhere to them and not flaunt the rules. ‘But…but how would we cycle?’ you may ask. Spring has only just begun and the weather is starting to look delightful. The urge to jump on your bike and go riding is almost too much to bear. There is, however, a solution. It’s been around for years and its technology has improved a tenfold in the past year or so. Turbo Trainers.
While the indoor cycle ride may not quite replicate the great outdoors with the sun in your face and the wind in your hair, it does keep you from going crazy, not to mention maintain your fitness throughout these troubled times. So let’s look at a few options and what you get out of them:
Tacx Flux S Smart Turbo Trainer
The Flux S Direct Drive Smart Trainer is packed with the latest in modern indoor training innovations to keep your edge during self-isolation. Bluetooth and ANT+(FE-C) connectivity is built into the unit and will sync to your smartphone or tablet, letting you relay your RPMs, BPMs and cadence to your device for immediate analysis. Using third-party apps such as the Tacx Desktop app and Zwift, you can also fully immerse yourself in VR rides, adding as realistic a feel to every run as possible. Alternatively, you can ride in stand-alone mode and burn through your own workout, without virtual assistance. Performance-wise, the Flux S features a redesigned internal setup which has improved the accuracy of its power measurements to within 3%, a 7kg flywheel that provides true-feeling inertia and an almost silent motion and a direct drive, easy-access mounting setup that is compatible with bikes with long cage derailleurs. Powerful, intelligent and precise indoor workouts are assured with this terrific Tacx trainer.
Wahoo Kickr Core Smart Trainer
The Wahoo Kickr Core incorporates Kickr Power in a simple but stable design. The Kickr Core is the latest development in Wahoo’s line up of smart trainer’s. It delivers accurate and realistic indoor training in near silence. This is achieved through the proven flywheel technology and advanced algorithms which Wahoo have used so successfully in their other smart trainers. The Kickr Core is built with the durability to withstand all your indoor training sessions and no other brand of smart trainers has greater software training options or apps that are compatible, including Zwift, Trainer Road and Sufferfest.
As a bonus when you register your Wahoo Kickr Core in the Wahoo Fitness App, you will receive these awesome offers.
Saris H3 Smart Trainer
This H3 Direct Drive trainer is a modern marvel in the world of turbo trainers. This super-quiet model puts out only 59 decibels of sound at 20mph, which is less noise than is created by a dishwasher. Plus, it features an internal cooling system to keep its electronic resistance working at full power with the utmost accuracy and continues to function until your training session is over, or until your legs have given up. Constructed from a high-quality cast and machined aluminium with its inner workings being calibrated with the utmost precision to accurately measure power, speed and cadence. And, it’s immensely balanced flywheel enables this trainer to handle 2000 watts of power and can replicate a 20% climbing gradient.
We cycle for enjoyment and passion, recreating that in your home is always going to be difficult and takes a certain mindset, however, with the wide variety of options now available it’s easier than ever to get the most out of it. Whether you opt for a smart trainer, like the ones described above, or settle for a cheap and cheerful alternative that keeps your legs spinning, it’s important to keep your spirits high.
News that Zwift rival RGT Cycling is now free to all!
We previously put together a blog post highlighting the benefits of Zwift and how it works which you can read here.
View Hargroves Cycles full range of Turbo Trainers here: https://www.hargrovescycles.co.uk/turbo-trainers or pop into the shop and speak to our expert staff if you want any advice.
