Resistance Trainers Speed

Resistance Trainers Speed
Fluid vs magnetic trainer?

I had a magnetic trianer for several months at home. With a cadence of 90-95 my speedometer had me going 18-20 MPH. With a fluid trainer @ the same cadence my speed is 15-17 MPH with much more resistance. What causes that?

Because magnets produce a constant resistance as you speed up, that resistance becomes proportionally less. To counteract this problem, most magnetic trainers have adjustment settings so that you can set the amount of resistance you want according to your workout. This is fine and dandy except that most workouts take you through a range of efforts which means you must constantly adjust the trainer. (enter the bar mounted adjustment lever)

Fluid trainers were developed to solve the constant resistance problem of the magnetic trainers without the vibration problem of the wind trainers. Fluid trainers are essentially wind trainers immersed in oil. The run much more quietly than the wind trainers, and still provide the progressive resistance. The drawback of fluid is the seals eventually fail from the constant heating and cooling leaving you with a puddle of oil on your floor.

Fluid trainers are the current favorite for cyclists. I would not be concerned about the drop in wheel speed from magnetic to fluid trainers. Wheel speed is not a big factor on trainers, it's all about effort (resistance) and cadence.

I personally am a big fan of rollers. If you're not familiar with them rollers are a device with three drums, which you balance on while you ride. Your bike is not attached to anything. Balance and form are what keep you up. Rollers are great for developing a fluid pedal stroke and smooth powerful riding.

Basket ball agility speed strength drill