A bicycle trainer lets you use a conventional bicycle as a stationary exercise bike. The trainer holds the rear axle of your bike between two clamps, and a resistance mechanism presses against the rear tire. When you pedal, the rear wheel spins, but your bike stays in place. You can also adjust the resistance for an easier or more strenuous workout by changing the gears on the bicycle. We tested two models:


CycleOps Fluid2, $300

This bike trainer uses a bolt-action quick release, which makes mounting the bike and removing it after exercising fairly easy. Our panelists said the stability of this model was very good even when they subjected it to intense pedaling.


Blackburn Trakstand Mag Trainer, $160

Mounting a bike on this trainer and removing it after use was more time-consuming than with the CycleOps and required greater hand strength for a secure fit. Our panelists found the stability was good at low to moderate intensity. During high-intensity pedaling, they found it less stable, with a lot of bike sway.

A note about safety: These models provide very little risk to the user but could be hazardous to inattentive bystanders, curious children, or pets. The main problem is not the stand itself but the spokes of the spinning back wheel and gears and the moving chain of the bike. As with most exercise equipment, it is a good idea to keep bystanders away from the machine during use. If you have small children in your home, you should always remove the bike from the trainer after use.

The smoothness of your ride will depend to a great extent on your bike’s tires; knobby mountain-bike tires would make the going a lot rougher and louder, with more vibration transmitted through the bike frame. Both models were relatively quiet when used with a slick tire.