We know what it’s like and while we try and get out no matter what the weather, we can admit guilt on those days where the inclement weather just has us lying in for a few extra hours and then feeling guilty about not getting out to train! Thankfully we have indoor trainers to remind us that no matter what the weather looks like, we have no excuse to lose that valuable fitness that we’ve built up in summer. Let’s take a look at our top picks to keep our fitness game at the highest level during the rainy season!

The Tacx Flux is one of the highest rated trainers out there and finds the ideal medium between performance and a price point that comes in below the other high performance trainers out there.

DCRainmaker.com provides some of the most in-depth reviews on products in the industry and he had this to say on the Tacx Flux:

“I’d say that at this point, the Flux represents the best bang for the buck in the controllable trainer world. It’s a near-perfect price hybrid between the benefits of a direct drive trainer, while still being more accurate than the options at the price point just below it.”

The Wahoo Kickr has received high praise from Bikeradar.com, who had this to say on one of the most sophisticated trainers we have in store:

“The lab-like ability to dial in exact wattage resistance is a huge training asset, and the controlled power output can be very gratifying — especially if you’re the type to follow your intervals to the T. When paired with structured workout software like TrainerRoad, it brings indoor solo training to a new level. And when used with Zwift, indoor riding can actually be engaging, as the resistance automatically adjust to the virtually climbs, flats, big-group drafts and descents.”

The Elite Drivo Smart Trainer has quite simply been one of the most anticipated indoor trainers that has come to market! When you are looking at one trainer to do everything you could ever want, while providing the most realistic riding experience, this is it. Again, from DC Rainmaker:

“It’s best in class when it comes to accuracy, rivaling any consumer trainer on the market. It’s easy to setup, and easy to use. Now of course it’s not 100% silent, but the trainer that is costs $300 (R4000) more. But it’s pretty darn quiet. It falls into the camp of ‘your fan is probably louder than the trainer”

The Cycleops Hammer has been tried and proven as one of the best indoor trainers on the market. As Oliver Bridgewood wrote for Cyclingweekly.com :

“Riding the Hammer delivered a realistic feel that had me breathing heavily in minutes as I tackled Majorca’s Col d’Honor on the virtual reality screen. The combination of electromagnectic resistance and 20lb flywheel worked especially well and was quick to respond to changes in gradient.”

Entry Level Picks