The controlled resistance is best when paired with VirtualTraining.ĮLECTROMAGNETIC trainers use resistance that is created by running an electrical current through a series of windings around a magnetic core. This means you can create customizable workouts and have precise control over your training zones and slope. Fluid resistance units are also exceptionally quiet at every speed.ĮLECTRONIC trainers are equipped with PowerTap technology, giving you precise measurement and feedback. Simply shift gears the same as you would outside.įLUID trainers are PowerTuned* to provide smooth, realistic accelerations and inertia for an extremely realistic road feel. However, the difference is that as you increase your pedal speed, the resistance increases exponentially.
PROGRESSIVE MAGNETIC trainers are also designed for smooth rides. Magnets inside the flywheel ensure that your ride stays smooth and even throughout your workout. MAGNETIC trainers offer five adjustable levels of linear resistance, which you can control from a handlebar-mounted shifter. Keep in mind that noise level also rises in relation to your speed. WIND trainers are based on the simple concept that the faster you pedal, the more resistance you create in the fan-like flywheel-in other words, the resistance is progressive. Here’s a brief overview to help you make your pick. Not every trainer offers the same type of resistance or real-road feel. PROGRESSIVE resistance is much more “true to the road” because when you pedal faster or shift gears, the resistance increases just as it would out on the road.ĬONTROLLED resistance offers you the ability to predefine workouts with varying degrees of resistance that are managed by a compatible head unit (like the PowerTap Joule GPS), the VirtualTraining app, or other compatible apps.
This type of resistance feels least like riding outside.ĪDJUSTABLE resistance allows you to choose from various levels of linear resistance on the trainer. LINEAR resistance means that when you pedal faster or shift gears on your bike, the resistance changes proportionately to your change in speed. Here’s a brief breakdown to help you choose which will work best for you. However, not all bike trainers create resistance the same way. That’s why it is more than twice as difficult to ride at 20 mph than at 10 mph. When you're riding your bicycle outside, wind resistance increases exponentially according to your speed.