TACX Winter Trainer

I have an older I-magic version (which I don't think they make anymore) and find it more than adequate for my winter training needs. The high-end "Fortius" has a pretty good motor-brake (as I understand, no direct experience) and the fact that the braking system is programmable allows for varied workouts (including power-based). The computer interface is nice and with the "real-life" video and a decent monitor, it can break up the monotony of trainer rides. The downside to the Fortius (and other similar) trainers, e.g. Compu-trainer is the cost. That said, I have completely satisfied with my Tacx trainer.

Having had both a Tacx and a Computrainer, I would pick up a used Computrainer on ebay if I were you. Check out the support forums for both companies and it will become clear as to why.

Though if he is in Ireland then the non-US models didn't have the power problems that the US ones had.  If that is still the ongoing issue with them, haven't looked in awhile since I got my Computrainer.