The home trainer is an essential piece of sports equipment for those who wish to take advantage of their free time while cycling without leaving the comfort of their home. Much more practical and lighter than the exercise bike and the spin bike, it is no longer intended only for professionals. Ready to work your thighs? Find the ideal home trainer with this comparison.
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Our selection
"The latest addition to the brand, the Suito T is as powerful as it is rugged and quiet. This interactive home trainer will greatly enhance…"
"You want to buy a home trainer, but your budget doesn't allow it? Look to the Elite Novo Force. It will offer you the essentials…"
"The Tacx NEO 2T Smart is remarkably powerful. It is also quiet compared to other types of home trainers. Its motor guarantees a better riding…"
"The Tacx Galaxia T1100 is compatible with many road, track and gravel bikes and is equipped with a patented swing mechanism. Its heavy conical rollers…"
The latest addition to the brand, the Suito T is as powerful as it is rugged and quiet. This interactive home trainer will greatly enhance and simplify your cycling experience.
424 £ on AlltricksThe Elite Suito T direct drive home trainer fits the vast majority of bikes today. It features Plug & Play installation technology combined with a compact, streamlined profile. It is powerful, exceptionally precise and stable. What more could you ask for? The best part is that when you choose this home trainer, you'll get a free one-month subscription to Zwift. You'll also receive a free 12-month subscription to My E-Training, Elite's dedicated application.
You only need a little less than 5 minutes to install the home trainer. Its steel structure is the proof of its robustness. Its support base is relatively wide while its feet lock automatically when opened. The ANT+ FE-C and Bluetooth compatibilities allow you to make this model interact with peripherals, apps (Kinomap, Bikevo, TrainerRoad...) and software under iOS, Android, Windows and MacOS.
You want to buy a home trainer, but your budget doesn't allow it? Look to the Elite Novo Force. It will offer you the essentials you need to improve your performance.
116 £ on AlltricksOne of the most compact, this home trainer with magnetic resistance will be a precious help in your search for progress. It offers you up to 8 positions of adjustment that can be easily achieved via the selector on the handlebars. The steel frame is adorned with technological plastic elements. So you can be sure to have in your hands a good quality equipment. In addition, the absorbing structure of the frame provides excellent stability despite high speeds and high intensity.
It is important to note that the lifting of your bike is reduced to a minimum. Your two-wheeler can be attached and detached with the greatest of ease and in a single turn of the hand thanks to the Fast Fixing system. You can carry your equipment wherever you want since it has a folding roller, which also limits the space required. Note that this model fits all bikes with wheels from 24 to 29″. If you want to connect it, simply use a Misuro B+ sensor.
The Tacx NEO 2T Smart is remarkably powerful. It is also quiet compared to other types of home trainers. Its motor guarantees a better riding experience.
1 039 £ on Alltricks
The Tacx Galaxia T1100 is compatible with many road, track and gravel bikes and is equipped with a patented swing mechanism. Its heavy conical rollers fold down easily to a size of only 80 cm.
184 £ on AlltricksDo you want to improve your physical condition, your pedal strokes or your pedaling speed and performance? We highly recommend the Tacx Galaxia T1100. This home trainer weighs exactly 8.2 kg. With this equipment you will easily reach your goals, whatever they may be (performance optimization, weight loss...). Moreover, you will be able to make sprints without constraint and even to put you upright for a training in dancer.
This is a well-made roller trainer that will not disappoint you. Its smart design will give you tapered rollers that give you the possibility of increased stability. The best thing about the Galaxia T1100 is the integration of the Tacx patented swing system. During acceleration the trainer will move forward. On the other hand, if you slow down, the trainer will move backwards with ease.
Any specific needs?
The best entry-level home trainer
The best high-end home trainer
Your guide :
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| THE BEST | CHEAP | TOP OF THE LINE | EXCELLENT | |
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
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7/10 |
9/10 |
8/10 |
| OUR SELECTION |
Elite Suito T
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Elite Novo Force
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Tacx NEO 2T Smart
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Tacx Galaxia T1100
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The latest addition to the brand, the Suito T is as powerful as it is rugged and quiet. This interactive home trainer will greatly enhance and simplify your cycling experience.
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You want to buy a home trainer, but your budget doesn't allow it? Look to the Elite Novo Force. It will offer you the essentials you need to improve your performance.
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The Tacx NEO 2T Smart is remarkably powerful. It is also quiet compared to other types of home trainers. Its motor guarantees a better riding experience.
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The Tacx Galaxia T1100 is compatible with many road, track and gravel bikes and is equipped with a patented swing mechanism. Its heavy conical rollers fold down easily to a size of only 80 cm.
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Bike mountings
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Quick Release attachment (remove rear wheel)
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Rear wheel thru axle mounting
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Rear wheel removal, cassette and axle installation
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Without fasteners
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Connectivity
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ANT+ and Bluetooth
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Aucune-
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ANT+ FE-C, Bluetooth Smart open
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About 8.2 kg
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Weights
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14.2 kg
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24″ to 29″
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21.5 kg
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26″, 27.5″, 700 c (28″), 29″
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Compatible bikes
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Bikes with 130 or 135 mm hubs
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To resistance
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Bike with 130 mm (road), 135 mm (MTB), 142 mm and 148 mm rear axle
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Rolling
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Type
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Direct drive
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Direct drive
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The type of workout you plan to do will determine the type of model you need. For amateurs and those with an average level of fitness, a cycle trainer will be perfect for your needs. In addition, buying one will save you money. On the other hand, the ergotrainer is specifically designed for professionals who want to perform more intense exercises.
In summary, here are the specifics of each type of home trainer:
This criterion varies from one home trainer to another. It will greatly impact how comfortable you feel and experience your cycling sessions. You will find them in different materials such as gel, metal or even plastic.
The braking power of a home trainer determines its ability to withstand pedaling. Thus, a minimum power of 600 W will be sufficient if your goal is only to stay in shape. On the other hand, opt for models with 1000 to 2000 W if you use the device for professional purposes. As for the braking system itself, you can choose between hydraulic, mechanical, air and magnetic (or electromagnetic) brakes.
Before investing in any home trainer, it is essential to check whether or not it is compatible with your bike. To do this, we recommend that you pay attention to the different mounting options offered (through-axle adapters, free hub...). In most cases, all mounting accessories are already included in the purchase. If not, you will have to buy them separately.
With a basic home trainer, the possibilities are very limited. On the contrary, a sophisticated model lets you have a large number of features. It is mainly the comfort options of the model that interests us. For example, you can appreciate the presence of a brake adjustment system via a wireless control. The interactivity can also be useful. It gives you access to various training programs. Similarly, the presence of a control screen would be welcome for a total immersion in a sporty universe.
Accessories will be able to greatly improve your comfort of driving and using the home trainer. Let's mention as an example:
Since you will be using it mainly indoors, you should bring a hair band, an antiperspirant cloth for your forehead and a mat for the home trainer so that you don't damage your floor or your bike with sweat. Also, drink a minimum of 1L of water during your workout.
The principle of operation of a home trainer is very simple. In general, it consists of several elements, namely the frame, the adjustment and fixing mechanism and the resistance chamber. The bike remains upright and stable thanks to the clamping system, which is supported by the frame and locks the wheel axle. In the resistance chamber is the braking system: mechanical, magnetic or electromagnetic. The role of the latter is to create resistance when the wheel rubs against the roller and makes it turn.
In some cases, it is possible to equip the home trainer with several sensors so that you can measure your speed, your distance traveled, your heart rate or your calories burned. The sensors will be linked to a meter attached to the handlebars of the bike and connected to a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet via an application.
The steps to follow depend on the type of home trainer you have chosen. As a rule, the installation takes place in two different ways: either you remove the rear wheel and install the device at the chain, or you simply need to attach this wheel by its axis to the device. Of course, the first case offers you a little more stability. The second option, on the other hand, is very easy to apply.
The home trainer is a piece of sports equipment that can help you improve your performance over the long term. To ensure that each workout remains effective and provides real benefits, here are some rules to follow:
The bike is attached to the home trainer by the rear wheel axle without the need to disassemble it. The feeling is very realistic, you just have to get on your bike and pedal (classic pedaling or dancing). This equipment allows you to simulate flat roads to perfection. The braking system is located on the same rear wheel, which gives you the opportunity to adjust the intensity of it, on 5 to 10 positions, and to vary your training. It is important to note that the use of a specific tire is required here in order to preserve the rear wheel of your bike.
In contrast to the previous model, the bike can be attached to the direct drive home trainer with a cassette by its chain and not its rear wheel. This will prevent the tire from rubbing on the roller as much as possible. The device is quieter and relatively smooth compared to a conventional model. It lends itself well to the simulation of slopes up to 18%. If you tend to pedal fast and hard, this is the type of home trainer you need. Although some models, especially the higher end ones, are often offered in a cordless version, the direct drive home trainer is quite bulky and inconvenient to store.
The roller home trainer is the most likely to allow you to work on your velocity, balance as well as your pedaling rhythm. Simply place the bike on the roller mechanism. There is no need to fix it; the rollers have the ability to minimize shaking and vibration from pedaling. The only drawback is that you won't have the opportunity to simulate slopes or adjust the resistance. A little cumbersome, the roller home trainer proves to be practical for warming up, training before a competition or exercising for short sessions.
To break the monotony of indoor training, this type of home trainer will be highly recommended. The connected model, via ANT+ FE-C and Bluetooth, ensures a pleasant workout as you can view your ride on a TV screen, smartphone, PC or tablet. It supports a wide range of media, including Windows or Mac PCs and iOS/Android tablets and smartphones. Added to this are other beneficial features such as training tracking based on various parameters: endurance, slope... Better yet, why not train with a friend through a dedicated app or platform? Among the best known, we can mention Zwift, Kinomap, BKool and Rouvy.
This home-trainer is an integrated unit that does not require any major installation. It looks like a spinning bike. On this jewel of technology, the adjustment is made to the millimeter especially since it is stable, quiet and powerful. Its acquisition cost is around 1200 €.
Whether it's for maintenance, weight loss, warm-up or recovery, the home trainer and the exercise bike are sports equipment that allow you to ride a bike... at home. However, the battle is fierce and it is not easy to choose the right model. So, are you a home trainer or an exercise bike?
Generally, the bike can be easily attached to a home trainer, with or without removing the rear wheel. Some models, however, are more practical and offer greater ease of use: no need to remove the rear wheel, the bike is simply installed on the home trainer. It is particularly suitable for those who want to get rid of various weather constraints such as rain, snow, cold, etc.
What's more, by getting a home trainer, you are able to train at any time. Work on your cardio and muscles to prepare for a future competition. Its use is more practical than an outdoor workout in that it will save you 15 to 30 minutes with the same performance.
While it was only intended for gyms and fitness centers, the exercise bike now equips most French homes. Its installation does not require any particular knowledge. It offers many benefits, including its effects on the cardiovascular system. Note, however, that it can take up a lot of space in a small apartment or studio. You will not be able to move or transport it as you wish.
The machine not only works the lower body (hamstrings, thighs, glutes, calves...), it also helps you build upper body muscle while burning calories and lowering blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
The exercise bike, like the home trainer, allows you to pedal with ease indoors. They can be used for different purposes such as post-injury recovery, fitness, weight loss, pre-competition training, etc. They are both excellent alternatives to going out when the weather is bad.
The home trainer is recommended for people who already have their own bike. More pleasant to use, this equipment is available in countless variations. The feeling of realism and comfort will vary according to your choice of model. In addition, it can be discrete and easily stored.
On the other hand, the exercise bike is a ready-to-use device equipped with a comfortable, height-adjustable saddle, handlebars and a sturdy, stable base.
Not yet convinced of the usefulness of a home trainer for your indoor training? Let us tell you more about its many benefits.
A home trainer makes it possible to train at home, even during the coldest or rainiest winter seasons. Whether you're an amateur or a professional, you don't have to leave your house for your daily workouts. You can log miles while sitting in your living room and watching TV.
Unlike other sports/fitness equipment such as exercise bikes, elliptical bikes, spinning bikes, treadmills and inversion tables, the home trainer, with its small size and foldable design, does not take up much space on the floor and can be easily stored like a stepper or an exercise machine.
This is a type of physical activity that will work your heart muscles in the best conditions to strengthen your cardio-respiratory and vascular system, your arteries and blood vessels. Thanks to a home trainer, you can exercise whenever you want while limiting the risks of heart-related diseases such as heart attack or hypertension.
Are you a high-level athlete or just want to prepare for a local competition? In addition to keeping yourself in shape, you can improve your performance and progress little by little until the big day. Although not all home trainers offer the possibility of simulating slopes and descents, it is still as effective as on the road.
And if you think a home trainer isn't practical for working on your endurance, think again! Indoor cycling helps you strengthen your muscles, especially in the legs and respiratory system. A minimum of 60 minutes of cycling is worth 1 hour 20 to 1 hour 30 minutes of outdoor cycling. In addition, you will increase your endurance capacity and your ability to withstand intense physical effort.
In our opinion, the best brands of home-trainers in 2022 are :
Tacx is a subsidiary of the Garmin group. This brand specializes in the sale and production of bicycle-specific accessories. With its strong reputation in the field, Tacx is also known for the reliability as well as the quality of its connected home trainer models. A real must-have!"
The Italian firm specializes in the marketing and design of accessories and equipment for cycling. Like Tacx, it also offers its customers a wide selection of water bottles, fuoripista, bottle cages and home trainers. It is easily recognizable by the incredible quality of the finishes on its products.
Wahoo or Wahoo Fitness is a leading brand in the field of home trainers. It was founded by Chip Hawkins around 2009 and is headquartered in Atlanta. Cadence sensor, GPS meter, classic or bike home trainer... you will find everything you need at Wahoo.
As its name suggests, the PedalPro brand is an expert in the sale of bike items and accessories. Among its best-selling products are sneakers, helmets, baskets and racks, and home trainers. Beginners and professionals alike will be seduced by the quality of manufacture of its models.
Homcom manufactures and markets mainly high quality sports equipment at affordable prices. Concerning its home-trainers, demonstrating an unparalleled robustness and elegance, the firm promises you an optimal comfort of use.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Work on your velocity effectively
For this type of exercise, you need to do your sessions at a high cadence, which gives you more coordinated movements and a top pedaling performance. You can work your legs alternately or simultaneously and your heart rate at 60-70%. Naturally, your legs should be spinning at 90-120 rpm, depending on your fitness level.
The best way to work out is for a minimum of 40 minutes
Whatever your goal, it's recommended that you train for at least 40 minutes on a home trainer. These qualitative sessions can be up to 1 hour and 20 minutes including warm-up and cool-down. If you are not yet used to it, split your sessions into 2 or 3 times a day. For interval training, you can choose between short intervals of 10 to 20 seconds, medium intervals of 1 to 3 minutes, and long intervals of 4 to 15 minutes.
The different workouts you can do
There is no limit to the number of workouts you can do on a home trainer. In fact, you can perform a multitude of exercises to improve your level. For example, you can work on your explosiveness, velocity, muscular strength, coordination, pedaling technique and endurance, do anaerobic threshold, sprint or active recovery...
The best diet when you're home-training
Want to lose weight, maintain your fitness or gain muscle? Home training should generally be accompanied by a balanced, healthy diet. When you exercise, your body loses water and mineral salts. To compensate for this, a regular intake of water and minerals is essential, and this should be done at 10 to 15 minute intervals throughout the session. This will also reduce the risk of muscle injury.
Lose weight with a home-trainer
Have your days in the sauna been beneficial? The practice of the home-trainer is even more so! And for good reason, you will lose calories and burn fat. Depending on the intensity of your exercises, you can spend between 400 and 800 kcal. Knowing that you need to burn 7000 kcal to lose 1 kg, you must therefore perform between 10 to 20 sessions for each extra kilo. However, avoid consuming more calories than you burn.
First, you need a connected home trainer that is compatible with Zwift. Considered as an MMO (Massively Multiplayer Online), Zwift is above all a physical training program for amateur and professional cyclists. It is used like video games, but it will be a bike that will take the place of your controller. In this virtual universe, you interact, train and even compete with other users.
It is often advisable to do 2 sessions (of 1 hour each) of home-trainer per week. This way you can have time for recovery. In addition, if your physical condition allows it, do not hesitate to complement your program with complementary sports sessions such as swimming, running, walking... in order to have more tone in your daily life.
To do home-trainer, start your session with a warm-up of about 10 minutes. Then, perform a sprint of between 10 to 20 seconds followed by a recovery time of 2 to 5 minutes and so on. The number of sets you can do is entirely dependent on the length of your workout. The cool down or active recovery will be the same length as the warm up, 10 minutes.
It is entirely possible to build your own home trainer with a few items lying around in your garage. Ideally, you should have a large flat board to serve as a support, 3 hubs of the same caliber (2 for the rear wheel and 1 allowing you to attach the fork) and a few pieces of planks (from a pallet for example). Line up 2 boards with holes in them to accommodate the hubs. Put 2 square blocks of wood in the middle.
Place the 2 hubs, at least 30 cm apart, to support the rear wheel. Secure everything with a screwdriver. Remove the front wheel from the bike. Install it on your future home trainer and measure its level with a laser or bubble level before designing the front wheel support.
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