Time-poor riders
Fit in a focused session before work, whatever the weather or the light.
Turbo trainer: how to choose yours
A turbo trainer turns your bike into an indoor training tool, ready for rainy days, dark evenings and focused sessions. Here is how we choose the right type for your space and goals.
Which turbo trainer suits you?
Four types in our range, plus the extras that finish a home set-up.
SIMPLE STANDS
Resistance stand options that suit most wheel sizes.
What to prioritise
Easy start
Bike Turbo Trainers
Shop the Range
DIRECT DRIVE
Direct-drive smart trainers that replace your rear wheel.
What to prioritise
Smart training
Bike Turbo Trainers
Shop the Range
WHEEL-ON SMART
A smart option that keeps your rear wheel on.
What to prioritise
No wheel removal
Bike Turbo Trainers
Shop the Range
SMART BIKE
A dedicated indoor smart bike, no swapping bikes.
What to prioritise
Always ready
Bike Turbo Trainers
Shop the Range
LEVEL IT UP
Trainers alongside riser blocks and a trainer mat.
What to prioritise
Set-up extras
Turbo Trainers & Accessories
Shop the Range
FLOOR AND DATA
Trainers, a floor mat and bike computers for road riders.
What to prioritise
Protect and track
Road Turbo Trainers & Accessories
Shop the RangeWhat to look for in a turbo trainer
Wheel-on or direct drive
Wheel-on trainers hold your bike and press a roller against the rear tyre, so set-up is quick. Direct-drive trainers replace the rear wheel and connect to your chain through a cassette, which usually feels smoother. Check whether a direct-drive model comes with a cassette or needs one fitted.
Smart or basic
Smart trainers connect to training apps and can change resistance automatically to match a route or workout. Basic stands use manual resistance and work without any app. If you enjoy structured sessions or virtual rides, smart is worth it.
Bike compatibility
Check your axle type, wheel size and number of gears before you buy. Quick-release and thru-axle bikes can need different adapters. Each product page lists what that trainer supports.
Noise and space
Direct-drive trainers and smart bikes are generally quieter than wheel-on stands, which matters in apartments. Think about where it will live and whether it needs to fold away. A trainer mat helps dampen vibration and protects the floor.
Who it suits
Riders training for an event
Structured workouts on a smart trainer help you build fitness with purpose.
Apartment dwellers
A quieter direct-drive trainer on a mat keeps indoor riding neighbour-friendly.
Turbo trainers at a glance
| Option | Best for | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel-on stand | Getting started indoors | Check tyre pressure before each ride |
| Direct-drive smart trainer | Structured training and virtual rides | Check whether a cassette is included |
| Wheel-on smart trainer | Smart features without removing a wheel | Keep the set-up the same each time |
| Indoor smart bike | Households sharing one set-up | Leave room to get on and off safely |
| Riser block | Levelling your bike on a trainer | Match the front height to the trainer |
| Trainer mat | Protecting floors and cutting vibration | Lay it down before setting up |
Get the most from indoor rides
- Wipe sweat off your bike and trainer after every session, as sweat can corrode metal parts.
- Use a fan to stay cool, since there's no natural airflow indoors.
- Keep a towel and a full water bottle within reach before you start.
- Check the axle or clamp is secure before every ride.
Frequently asked questions
What is a turbo trainer?
A turbo trainer is a stand that holds your bike steady so you can ride it indoors. The rear wheel or drivetrain connects to a resistance unit that makes pedalling feel like riding on the road. It lets you train in any weather, at any time of day.
Do I need a smart trainer to use training apps?
If you want an app to control your resistance automatically, yes, you'll need a smart trainer. Some riders pair a basic trainer with speed or cadence sensors to log rides in an app, but the resistance won't change on its own. Check the app's list of compatible devices before you buy.
Will a turbo trainer damage my bike?
Used correctly, a trainer is fine for most bikes. The main things to watch are a securely fitted axle, sweat building up on the frame and headset, and extra tyre wear on wheel-on trainers. If you ride a carbon frame, check the bike maker's guidance on trainer use.
How noisy are turbo trainers?
It depends on the type. Wheel-on trainers make more noise because the tyre spins against a roller, while direct-drive trainers and smart bikes tend to be quieter. A trainer mat helps reduce vibration through the floor, which neighbours below will appreciate.
How long should an indoor session be?
Many riders find 30 to 60 minutes indoors is plenty, because there's no coasting and the effort is constant. Start shorter and build up, and keep cool with a fan and plenty of water. If you have any health concerns, check with your doctor before starting a training plan.
Explore our Top Sports
Ride whatever the weather
Set it up once and your next session is always ready. Explore our full cycling range for the bike, kit and extras to go with it.
Free delivery on orders over $150. Members get our lifetime warranty.
