Which bike roller trainers are best?

When the weather doesn’t permit cyclists to ride or train outside, bike rollers provide an economical and effective means to stay active indoors. The ability to use your bike inside can save time and energy, while providing a more controlled, and even safer, environment.

A bike roller essentially holds your bike in place as you ride, with a pair of rollers or drums containing the back wheel and another one holding the front. It’s a simple design, but an effective bike roller needs to be durable and perform smoothly. Our top pick, Kreitler Alloy Roller Set, is ideal for all riders, though our guide will help those of all skill levels and needs find the proper bike rollers for them.

What to know before you buy a bike roller trainer

Size and adjustability

Many bike rollers can accept most bikes, but it’s important to identify the roller’s limits so that you’re confident your bike is compatible. Look for weight capacity and wheel width when shopping.

Drum size

Drums will vary in size. Larger drums provide more resistance, which is helpful for casual and intermediate riders. Small drums offer little resistance and are best suited to skilled riders.

Material

Steel frames are ideal. While they cost more, they are also more durable and will stand up over time. The alternative is aluminum, which is lighter and less expensive but may not provide the same longevity. Serious riders and trainers may want to opt for steel construction, while aluminum is adequate for those looking to ride indoors occasionally when the outside isn’t accommodating.

What to look for in a quality bike roller trainer

Foldability

Some bike rollers fold up to save space, which is especially useful if there are warmer seasons where you won’t often use the rollers inside. Note the size when folded, as well as the weight, which will influence how easy it is to store. Foldable bike rollers are also easier to transport, which may be useful for those who may be traveling for competitions or races.

Tapered drums

Bike rollers with this design will protect you from drifting off the rollers. These drums will be narrower in the center and wider on the outer edges, which will help keep the wheels in the middle. This is useful for beginners but also for those who want to focus on technique and training goals.

Resistance

Higher-end models may offer the option of changing resistance. While this will come at a premium cost, it’s a worthy feature for serious, intent trainers. Similarly, such luxury bike rollers may feature smart technology to track your training data and toggle resistance.

Smoothness and noise

If possible, it’s best to test out a bike roller first to see the smoothness of the ride. Models of lesser quality may vibrate, and those vibrations will usually get more noticeable as speed increases. If rollers are shaking, they will also wear down more quickly. Hand in hand with smoothness is noise output. Rollers that vibrate and shake will be noisier, which can be a nuisance to the rider and those nearby.

How much you can expect to spend on a bike roller trainer

Quality bike rollers will run from around $300-$600. These should offer a smooth, quiet ride, and provide longevity for frequent use.

Bike roller trainer FAQ

Q. What safety precautions should I take when using bike rollers?

A. Riding on bike rollers requires concentration and practice. It’s much easier to lose your balance, fall off, or lose control than when riding on a flat surface outside. There are no speed cues, like wind, when on a bike roller. You’ll also need to avoid overcompensating should the bike weave or veer. Make sure also to wear a helmet.

Q. Do bike rollers have an effect on my tires?

A. While your bike tires will likely wear down when using a bike roller, they aren’t likely to wear down any more than they would when riding on a road. Because the rollers are smooth, there will not be any unforeseen obstacles that hurt the tires as there might be when road biking.

What are the best bike roller trainers to buy?

Top bike roller

Kreitler Alloy Roller Set

What you need to know: It features all-aluminum drums and end caps that are beautifully machined and perfectly balanced.

What you’ll love: It’s a smooth and quiet roller set. You can fold it in half and put it aside when not using it. The design is simple yet very durable.

What you should consider: It’s expensive.

Top bike roller for money

Saris’ CycleOps Aluminum Roller

What you need to know: This lightweight, compact roller set is ideal for occasional use.

What you’ll love: The rollers are easy to set up and transport. The aluminum construction offers a smooth ride.

What you should consider: Some people had concerns about durability.

Worth checking out

Feedback Sports’ Omnium Over-Drive Portable Trainer

What you need to know: This uniquely designed bike roller is best used by serious riders and those on the go.

What you’ll love: It features two slender rear rollers designed to secure the bike’s front fork. It doesn’t wear down tires. It offers a smooth, quiet, authentic ride.

What you should consider: The design takes some getting used to.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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