The 10 Best Indoor Bike Trainers: Get Fit and Stay Indoors

With the ongoing pandemic, indoor cycling has become more popular than ever. An indoor bike trainer is a great way to keep up your cycling fitness without leaving the comfort of your home. If you’re in the market for an indoor bike trainer, we’ve got you covered. In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of indoor bike trainers and provide reviews of the 10 best indoor bike trainers on the market.

 

What Is An Indoor Trainer?

An indoor bike trainer is a device that allows you to convert your outdoor bike into an indoor stationary bike. It typically consists of a frame that holds your bike in place, a roller that applies resistance to the rear wheel, and a flywheel that creates momentum. You can use an indoor trainer to simulate outdoor riding conditions, such as hill climbs and sprints, and track your progress using a variety of metrics, such as power output and speed.

 

Different Types of Indoor Trainers

There are three main types of indoor bike trainers: fluid, magnetic, and direct drive. Fluid trainers use a hydraulic fluid to create resistance, which provides a more realistic road-like feel. Magnetic trainers use a magnetic field to create resistance, which is quieter and more affordable than fluid trainers. Direct drive trainers remove the rear wheel and attach directly to the bike frame, which provides the most accurate and consistent resistance.

 

The 10 Best Indoor Bike Trainers

Below are our list of the top 10 best indoor cycling trainers to take your indoor cycling to the next level.

 

1. Wahoo Kickr Snap:

This magnetic trainer is easy to set up and provides accurate power measurements. It’s also compatible with a variety of training apps and platforms.

 

Pros of the Wahoo Kickr Snap:

1. Easy to set up: The Wahoo Kickr Snap is easy to set up and requires minimal assembly.

2. Accurate power measurements: The Kickr Snap provides accurate power measurements, which is important for tracking progress and setting training goals.

3. Compatible with a variety of apps and platforms: The Kickr Snap is compatible with a variety of popular training apps and platforms, including Zwift, TrainerRoad, and Sufferfest.

4. Realistic road-like feel: The magnetic resistance unit of the Kickr Snap provides a realistic road-like feel, which can make indoor training more enjoyable.

5. Adjustable resistance: The Kickr Snap has adjustable resistance that can be controlled through a companion app or through the bike’s gears.

 

Cons of the Wahoo Kickr Snap:

1. Noisier than some direct drive trainers: The Kickr Snap is not as quiet as some direct drive trainers, which can be a concern if you live in an apartment or have close neighbors.

2. Requires frequent calibration: The Kickr Snap requires frequent calibration to ensure accurate power measurements, which can be a hassle.

3. Wheel compatibility: The Kickr Snap is compatible with most road and mountain bikes, but some bikes may require additional adapters or modifications.

4. Not as accurate as direct drive trainers: While the Kickr Snap provides accurate power measurements, it is not as accurate as some direct drive trainers, which can be a concern for serious athletes or those who require precise power data.

5. Price: The Wahoo Kickr Snap is a high-end trainer and comes with a premium price tag, which may be a barrier for some users.

https://eu.wahoofitness.com/devices/indoor-cycling/bike-trainers/kickr-snap-buy

 

2. Tacx Flux S

This direct drive trainer is affordable and provides a realistic ride feel. It’s also quiet and easy to set up.

Pros of the Tacx Flux S:

1. Realistic ride feel: The direct drive design of the Tacx Flux S provides a realistic ride feel, which can make indoor training more enjoyable and engaging.

2. Accurate power measurements: The Flux S provides accurate power measurements, which is important for tracking progress and setting training goals.

3. Affordable: The Tacx Flux S is more affordable than some other direct drive trainers, making it a good option for those on a budget.

4. Easy to set up: The Flux S is easy to set up and requires minimal assembly.

5. Quiet: The Flux S is relatively quiet compared to other trainers, which can be a consideration if you live in an apartment or have close neighbors.

Cons of the Tacx Flux S:

1. Wheel compatibility: The Flux S is compatible with most road and mountain bikes, but some bikes may require additional adapters or modifications.

2. No built-in cadence sensor: The Flux S does not have a built-in cadence sensor, so you will need to purchase a separate sensor or use a compatible device.

3. Limited resistance range: The Flux S has a limited resistance range compared to some other trainers, which may be a concern for advanced athletes or those who require more challenging workouts.

4. Calibration required: The Flux S requires regular calibration to ensure accurate power measurements, which can be a hassle.

5. Limited app compatibility: While the Flux S is compatible with many popular training apps, it may not be compatible with some less common apps or platforms.

https://www.evocycles.co.nz/Product/295093/tacx-flux-s-interactive-direct-drive-smart-trainer

 

3. Saris H3

This direct drive trainer is one of the quietest on the market and provides accurate power measurements. It’s also compatible with a variety of training apps and platforms.

Pros of the Saris H3:

1. Quiet operation: The Saris H3 is one of the quietest indoor bike trainers available, making it a great option for indoor cycling enthusiasts who live in close quarters with others.

2. Accurate power measurement: The H3 provides accurate power measurement, which is important for tracking your progress and meeting your fitness goals.

3. Easy to set up: The H3 is easy to set up, with a plug-and-play design that requires minimal assembly.

4. Compatible with a variety of training apps: The H3 is compatible with a variety of training apps and programs, allowing you to tailor your workout to your specific needs and preferences.

5. Smooth ride: The H3’s direct drive design provides a smooth, natural ride feel that mimics the experience of cycling outdoors.

Cons of the Saris H3:

1. Expensive: The Saris H3 is one of the more expensive indoor bike trainers available, which may not be affordable for all users.

2. Heavy: The H3 is relatively heavy, which can make it difficult to move or store when not in use.

3. Limited wheel compatibility: The H3 is only compatible with bikes that have a standard 130mm or 135mm quick release or 12×142 thru-axle rear end, which may limit its versatility for some users.

4. Calibration required: The H3 requires regular calibration to ensure accurate power measurements, which can be a hassle for some users.

5. No built-in cadence sensor: The H3 does not have a built-in cadence sensor, which means you will need to purchase a separate sensor or use a compatible device to track your cadence.

https://saris.com/products/h3-direct-drive-smart-trainer

 

4. CycleOps Hammer

This direct drive trainer provides a realistic ride feel and is compatible with a variety of training apps and platforms. It’s also quiet and easy to set up.

Pros of the CycleOps Hammer:

1. Realistic ride feel: The CycleOps Hammer provides a realistic ride feel that closely mimics outdoor cycling, thanks to its direct drive design and heavy flywheel.

2. Accurate power measurement: The Hammer provides accurate power measurement, which is important for tracking your progress and meeting your fitness goals.

3. Compatible with a variety of training apps: The Hammer is compatible with a variety of training apps and programs, allowing you to tailor your workout to your specific needs and preferences.

4. Quiet operation: The Hammer is relatively quiet, making it a great option for indoor cycling enthusiasts who live in close quarters with others.

5. Easy to set up: The Hammer is easy to set up, with a plug-and-play design that requires minimal assembly.

Cons of the CycleOps Hammer:

1. Heavy: The Hammer is relatively heavy, which can make it difficult to move or store when not in use.

2. Expensive: The CycleOps Hammer is one of the more expensive indoor bike trainers available, which may not be affordable for all users.

3. Limited wheel compatibility: The Hammer is only compatible with bikes that have a standard 130mm or 135mm quick release or 12×142 thru-axle rear end, which may limit its versatility for some users.

4. No built-in cadence sensor: The Hammer does not have a built-in cadence sensor, which means you will need to purchase a separate sensor or use a compatible device to track your cadence.

5. Requires calibration: The Hammer requires regular calibration to ensure accurate power measurements, which can be a hassle for some users.

https://saris.com/products/cycleops-hammer-trainer

 

5. Elite Direto XR

This direct drive trainer provides accurate power measurements and is compatible with a variety of training apps and platforms. It also has a built-in cadence sensor.

Pros of the Elite Direto XR:

1. Accurate power measurement: The Elite Direto XR provides highly accurate power measurement, making it easy to track your progress and meet your fitness goals.

2. Realistic ride feel: The Direto XR provides a realistic ride feel that closely mimics outdoor cycling, thanks to its direct drive design and heavy flywheel.

3. Compatible with a variety of training apps: The Direto XR is compatible with a wide range of training apps and programs, allowing you to customize your workouts to meet your specific needs and preferences.

4. Built-in cadence sensor: The Direto XR has a built-in cadence sensor, eliminating the need for a separate device to track your cadence.

5. Easy to set up and use: The Direto XR is relatively easy to set up and use, with a plug-and-play design that requires minimal assembly.

Cons of the Elite Direto XR:

1. Expensive: The Elite Direto XR is one of the more expensive indoor bike trainers on the market, which may not be affordable for all users.

2. Heavy: The Direto XR is relatively heavy, which can make it difficult to move or store when not in use.

3. Loud operation: Some users have reported that the Direto XR can be quite loud, particularly at higher resistance levels.

4. Limited wheel compatibility: The Direto XR is only compatible with bikes that have a standard 130mm or 135mm quick release or 12×142 thru-axle rear end, which may limit its versatility for some users.

5. Requires calibration: Like many direct drive trainers, the Direto XR requires regular calibration to ensure accurate power measurements, which can be a hassle for some users.

https://www.elite-it.com/en/products/home-trainers/interactive-trainers/direto-xr-t

 

6. Kinetic Road Machine Smart 2

This fluid trainer provides a realistic ride feel and is compatible with a variety of training apps and platforms. It’s also quiet and easy to set up.

Pros of the Kinetic Road Machine Smart 2:

1. Realistic ride feel: The Kinetic Road Machine Smart 2 provides a realistic road-like feel, thanks to its fluid resistance unit and large flywheel.

2. Compatible with a variety of training apps: The Smart 2 is compatible with a wide range of training apps and platforms, allowing you to customize your workouts and track your progress.

3. Quiet operation: The Smart 2 is relatively quiet, thanks to its fluid resistance unit, making it a good option for users who want to train indoors without disturbing others.

4. Easy to set up and use: The Smart 2 is relatively easy to set up and use, with a quick-release skewer included to make bike installation easy.

5. Durable construction: The Smart 2 is built to last, with a sturdy frame and high-quality materials that can withstand years of use.

Cons of the Kinetic Road Machine Smart 2:

1. Limited resistance levels: The Smart 2 has a maximum resistance of 1,800 watts, which may not be enough for advanced riders who want to simulate steep climbs or sprints.

2. Requires a power source: The Smart 2 requires a power source to operate, which may be inconvenient for users who don’t have an outlet near their training area.

3. Not compatible with all bikes: The Smart 2 is only compatible with bikes that have a standard quick-release skewer or 12x142mm thru-axle, which may limit its versatility for some users.

4. No built-in cadence sensor: The Smart 2 does not have a built-in cadence sensor, so users will need to purchase a separate device if they want to track their cadence.

5. Heavy: The Smart 2 is relatively heavy, which can make it difficult to move or store when not in use.

https://www.kurtkinetic.com/trainers-products/road-machine-smart-2

 

7. Garmin Tacx Neo 2T

This direct drive trainer provides accurate power measurements and is one of the quietest on the market. It’s also compatible with a variety of training apps and platforms.

Pros of the Garmin Tacx Neo 2T:

1. Realistic ride feel: The Tacx Neo 2T uses a direct drive system and a large flywheel to provide a realistic and smooth ride experience that simulates outdoor riding.

2. Accurate power measurements: The Neo 2T provides accurate power measurements with a margin of error of just 1%.

3. One of the quietest trainers on the market: The Neo 2T is one of the quietest trainers on the market, making it an ideal choice for apartment dwellers or anyone who wants to train indoors without disturbing others.

4. Compatible with a variety of training apps: The Neo 2T is compatible with a wide range of training apps and platforms, allowing you to customize your workouts and track your progress.

5. Includes a built-in cadence sensor: The Neo 2T includes a built-in cadence sensor, eliminating the need to purchase a separate device to track your cadence.

Cons of the Garmin Tacx Neo 2T:

1. Expensive: The Neo 2T is one of the most expensive trainers on the market, which may be a barrier to entry for some users.

2. Heavy and bulky: The Neo 2T is relatively heavy and bulky, which can make it difficult to move or store when not in use.

3. Requires a power source: The Neo 2T requires a power source to operate, which may be inconvenient for users who don’t have an outlet near their training area.

4. Limited compatibility with certain bikes: The Neo 2T is not compatible with bikes that have a non-standard rear axle, which may limit its versatility for some users.

5. Can be challenging to set up: The Neo 2T can be challenging to set up and requires some technical expertise, which may be daunting for less experienced users.

https://www.garmin.com/en-NZ/p/701670

 

8. Elite Suito

This direct drive trainer is affordable and provides accurate power measurements. It’s also easy to setup and has a compact design that makes it easy to store when not in use.

Pros of the Elite Suito:

1. Affordable: The Elite Suito is one of the more affordable direct drive trainers on the market, making it an attractive option for those on a budget.

2. Accurate power measurements: The Suito provides accurate power measurements with a margin of error of just 2.5%.

3. Compatible with a variety of training apps: The Suito is compatible with a wide range of training apps and platforms, allowing you to customize your workouts and track your progress.

4. Easy to set up: The Suito is easy to set up and can be ready to use in just a few minutes.

5. Compact and lightweight: The Suito is relatively compact and lightweight, making it easy to move and store when not in use.

Cons of the Elite Suito:

1. Noisy: The Suito can be quite loud, especially at high speeds or when using it for high-intensity interval training.

2. Limited resistance: The Suito may not provide enough resistance for advanced or experienced riders who are looking for a more challenging workout.

3. Limited compatibility with certain bikes: The Suito is not compatible with bikes that have a non-standard rear axle, which may limit its versatility for some users.

4. Limited connectivity options: The Suito does not have built-in Bluetooth or ANT+ connectivity, which means you’ll need to purchase a separate dongle to connect it to your devices.

5. Limited incline simulation: The Suito’s incline simulation is limited to just 15%, which may not be enough for users who want to simulate steeper climbs.

https://www.elite-it.com/en/products/home-trainers/interactive-trainers/suito-t

 

9. Wattbike Atom

This smart bike trainer offers a realistic ride feel and accurate power measurements. It also has integrated shifting and braking and is compatible with a variety of training apps and platforms.

Pros of the Wattbike Atom:

1. Realistic ride feel: The Wattbike Atom provides a realistic and immersive riding experience that mimics outdoor cycling, thanks to its advanced electromagnetic resistance system and proprietary gear shifter.

2. Accurate power and cadence measurements: The Atom provides highly accurate power and cadence measurements, with a margin of error of just 1%, making it an excellent choice for serious athletes.

3. Customizable workouts: The Atom allows you to customize your workouts with a wide range of metrics and parameters, including power, heart rate, cadence, and more.

4. Adjustable frame and handlebars: The Atom’s frame and handlebars are fully adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your body and riding style.

5. Compatible with a wide range of apps and platforms: The Atom is compatible with a wide range of apps and platforms, including Zwift, TrainerRoad, and more, allowing you to customize your training experience.

Cons of the Wattbike Atom:

1. Expensive: The Wattbike Atom is one of the more expensive indoor bike trainers on the market, making it an investment that may be out of reach for some users.

2. Heavy and bulky: The Atom is relatively heavy and bulky, making it difficult to move or store when not in use.

3. Noisy: The Atom can be quite loud, especially at high speeds or when using it for high-intensity interval training.

4. Limited incline simulation: The Atom’s incline simulation is limited to just 10%, which may not be enough for users who want to simulate steeper climbs.

5. Limited compatibility with certain bikes: The Atom is not compatible with all types of bikes, which may limit its versatility for some users.

https://us.wattbike.com/products/wattbike-atom

 

10. Bkool Smart Pro 2

This smart trainer offers a realistic ride feel and accurate power measurements. It’s also compatible with a variety of training apps and platforms and has a wide range of resistance levels.

Pros of the Bkool Smart Pro 2:

1. Realistic ride feel: The Bkool Smart Pro 2 provides a realistic and immersive riding experience that mimics outdoor cycling, thanks to its advanced electromagnetic resistance system.

2. Customizable workouts: The Bkool Smart Pro 2 allows you to customize your workouts with a wide range of metrics and parameters, including power, heart rate, cadence, and more.

3. Quiet operation: The Bkool Smart Pro 2 is one of the quietest indoor bike trainers on the market, making it ideal for use in apartments or other shared living spaces.

4. Adjustable frame and handlebars: The Bkool Smart Pro 2’s frame and handlebars are fully adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your body and riding style.

5. Compatible with a wide range of apps and platforms: The Bkool Smart Pro 2 is compatible with a wide range of apps and platforms, including Zwift, TrainerRoad, and more, allowing you to customize your training experience.

Cons of the Bkool Smart Pro 2:

1. Limited resistance: The Bkool Smart Pro 2’s resistance range is somewhat limited compared to other high-end indoor bike trainers, which may be a drawback for more experienced cyclists.

2. Software compatibility issues: Some users have reported issues with the Bkool Smart Pro 2’s compatibility with certain training apps and platforms, which may limit its versatility.

3. Setup can be difficult: Setting up the Bkool Smart Pro 2 can be somewhat challenging, particularly if you’re not experienced with assembling and adjusting bike trainers.

4. No built-in display: Unlike some other indoor bike trainers, the Bkool Smart Pro 2 does not come with a built-in display, which may be a drawback for users who prefer to monitor their metrics on a dedicated screen.

5. Limited connectivity options: The Bkool Smart Pro 2 has somewhat limited connectivity options compared to other high-end indoor bike trainers, which may be a drawback for users who want to connect to multiple devices simultaneously.

 

Conclusion

Indoor bike trainers are a great investment for anyone looking to stay fit and continue cycling indoors. With so many different types and models on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. However, by considering your budget, preferred type of resistance, and desired features, you can find the perfect indoor bike trainer for your needs. Hopefully, our list of the 10 best indoor bike trainers has helped you narrow down your options and find the right trainer for you.