Old man winter isn’t very nice to runners and cyclists, especially the latter as wind resistance in sub-zero temperatures is brutal. There comes a time when you just have to admit defeat and hang up the wheels – or do you?
Some people hit the local gym and ride the stationary bikes, but once you’ve rode a high quality bike for any length of time it’s almost sacrilegious. Wouldn’t it be nice if you could simply ride your own bike all year long?
Thankfully it’s possible and inexpensive to stay in top shape while being comfortable on your own bike and saddle. The inexpensive way to train on your bike at home is to use a mag trainer that bolts onto your bike at the rear wheel, allowing you to ride and experience different levels of resistance that affords a good workout experience.
There are many trainers on the market that are perfect for those that live in small spaces that will fold up small enough to be put in a closet or transported to another location.
For cyclists that demand the best a company called Tacx that has developed a trainer for the most discerning cyclist. The Genius T2020 is a state-of-the-art trainer that virtually releases you from the confines of your home, helping to ease winter cabin fever and allowing you to continue cycling year round.
The Genius T2020 features software that displays a first-person scenic view of your choice that can be played on a laptop. The beauty of this system is that as the gradient changes so does the resistance provided by the trainer. You are also able to steer the front wheel as the road changes direction or let the bike freewheel when coasting down a hill. The software also has a data logging feature that measures cadence and power output.
Euro-Sports is Ottawa’s foremost retailer and wholesaler of premium cycling and triathlon products. Visit them at www.Euro-Sports.ca or come by for a Monday night drop-in run, 6 pm every Monday rain or shine.