Best bike for use on a trainer

[Jeepfreak81]

Hi all,

So I've purchased a TacX smart trainer which I'm using on Bkool. For right now I'm using and old 26" MTB that I've had, but it's a bit small for me. Which leads me to 2 questions.

First concerns my other bike. I thought of putting my 29er on the trainer because it fits me better but it has full suspension, I'm thinking that might not be a great idea on the trainer?

Secondly, if I was to purchase another bike what should I get? I've never had a road bike and think I'd be a bit uncomfortable on it, so I'm leaning towards a Hybrid. I'd like to use it mainly on the trainer, and probably for some riding around town in the summer. I'm 6'4" tall, so I'm not sure what sizing I should be looking at if I go this route. Suggestions? I'd be shopping the used market as money is pretty tight.

 

[screenman]

A road bike has always been my choice, in fact the one that I have just got off has not been detached from the trainer for over 5 years.

 

[steve50]

Hybrid with bar ends is good for trainer duties, you want to be looking at a large size frame 56-57cm, you might get away with a smaller frame as the bike is raised off the floor when on the turbo but then you want to use the bike for an odd trip into town so a smaller frame would not really be suitable.

 

[Jeepfreak81]

Hybrid with bar ends is good for trainer duties, you want to be looking at a large size frame 56-57cm, you might get away with a smaller frame as the bike is raised off the floor when on the turbo but then you want to use the bike for an odd trip into town so a smaller frame would not really be suitable.

Ya, I was looking at some Hybrids online thinking that's the way to go. The issue I have with the bike I'm using now is my saddle position. I feel I'm sitting way to close to the handle bars, I can get the seat high enough but not far enough back. Thanks for the suggestion. I think I will stick it out for a while using the bike I have setup and look for a used Hybrid. I don't think putting my 29er on the trainer is the best idea. I just feel like the full suspension will be a problem.

 

[GrahamG]

If it's for serious training, or even just a winter substitute making that you'll spend a lot of time on it, the answer is 'whatever bike allows you to mirror exactly your 29er set up'. Same saddle/bar/pedal position so that you can naturally transition without any ill effects physically.

 

[stumpy66]

Are you able to lock out the suspension?

Also if you had a spare wheel I'd put a slick tyre on, will be smoother and quieter on the turbo

 

[Jeepfreak81]

I'm not sure if I can lock out the suspension or not. I will have to take a look at that. I would definitely want a slick on it. I am leaning towards a hybrid though, come spring I may want to put some miles on outside and the hybrid would probably serve me better on the pavement than my 29" MTB.