Magnetic vs. Fluid Trainers

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2007-01-25 3:24 PM

Elite
2608
2000500100
Denver, Colorado
Subject: Magnetic vs. Fluid Trainers
Which one is better? I'm looking to buy a really low end trainer so the price on both is relatively the same.

2007-01-25 3:41 PM
in reply to: #668135

Master
1362
10001001001002525
Charlotte, NC
Subject: RE: Magnetic vs. Fluid Trainers

Lot's of discussions on this in Gear Review.  Personally we have a Cyclops Fluid 2 and we love it.  Smooth, quiet, and a good workout.

http://www.beginnertriathlete.com/discussion/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=64357&posts=17&start=1

2007-01-25 3:43 PM
in reply to: #668135

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Champion
5345
500010010010025
Carlsbad, California
Subject: RE: Magnetic vs. Fluid Trainers
The bit of research that I did seemed to indicate that a Magnetic Trainer was a good buy for the money and was generally more reliable.

The one drawback seemed to be the lack of Progressive Resistance. (Fluid Trainer is Progressive, Magnetic is not)

But, then I saw the CycleOps Magneto which does have Progressive Resistance. (It was on sale just after the holiday at LBS for $220)

So, that is what I have and I love it. It seems really solid and because it is Magnetic, should not have any of the mythical issues that a Fluid Trainer will have. (Leaks, Seals going bad etc.)

Oh, and it is very quiet.

Hope this helps

Edited by WaterDog66 2007-01-25 3:44 PM
2007-01-25 4:19 PM
in reply to: #668135

Elite
2608
2000500100
Denver, Colorado
Subject: RE: Magnetic vs. Fluid Trainers
Thanks, Dog and Sunburn. Yeah, I was worried about possible leaks, especially since I'm looking to buy a cheaper model. I've noticed that some mag trainers have settings, something like three. I guess a fluid one would technically have infinite settings, but my understanding is that adjusting tension on a mag combined with shifting should produce a decent workout.
2007-01-25 4:26 PM
in reply to: #668135

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Expert
1092
1000252525
Earth
Subject: RE: Magnetic vs. Fluid Trainers
I have 2 fluid trainers, one I have had for 3-5 years now.  The other only for 2 years.  I have had no issues with leaks or other malfunctions on either.  The one is a Nashbar trainer, the other is a Cycle Ops.
2007-01-25 4:41 PM
in reply to: #668230

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Champion
5345
500010010010025
Carlsbad, California
Subject: RE: Magnetic vs. Fluid Trainers
My trainer (Cyclops-Magneto) does not have resistance settings and is more like a Fluid trainer.

I think the reality is that although it does offer progressive resistance, it is not quite the same as a Fluid Trainer. (But it is cheaper)

I am sure that others with more experience with different trainers would have a more detailed comparison. (I do live in Southern California after all and only recently purchased a trainer so that I could get some late night bike rides in without risking life and limb)

Good Luck


2007-01-25 4:53 PM
in reply to: #668171

Extreme Veteran
422
100100100100
Subject: RE: Magnetic vs. Fluid Trainers
You can get the Kurt Kinetic for around the above mentioned price. Best fluid trainer made.
2007-01-25 6:55 PM
in reply to: #668268

Elite
3650
200010005001002525
Laurium, MI
Subject: RE: Magnetic vs. Fluid Trainers

low end fluids will not be worth it imho.  I've known too many people that have them leak after one season.

I have a mag and personally like it.  I enjoy the linear resistance mapping.  I feel it gives me more fine control over my power output.  Then again I never ride the trainer to simulate road riding.   All my trainer workouts are targeted and designed with the mag trainer's resitance curve in mind.

The biggest thing is to buy one you will ride.  Both types of trainers will gain you about the same sitting in the corner.

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