1. Stand- use Orchestral Music Stand
Orchestral Music Stand is our budget solution for turbo training tablet stand
Full adjustable
Shop here
2. Fan - use more than 1
Use more than 1 desk fan. Having one to cool you down and another to circulate the air in the room will help you to stay cool. Crack a window and get the fans on!
Shop here
3. Use Books
The majority of turbo trainers lift your back wheel off the ground so much so that your bike will not feel level unless the front wheel is also raised. If your trainer doesn’t come with a riser then a hardback book will do the trick. Do make sure you have read the book first before you go putting a tyre mark in it!
4. Reduce the noise
A heavy-duty mat and towel combination is a quick fix to reduce noise and vibrations, and a long-term solution would be to make a vibration reduction training platform for your bike.
5. Caffeine / fuel
A handful of chocolate covered espresso is much cheaper than a caffeinated gel for early-morning interval workouts.
We hope you find this useful!
Sporting Regards
The Turbo Trainer Hire Team
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TURBO TRAINER HIRE: WHAT, WHY AND HOW!
Are you considering training indoors?
Wondering about a turbo trainer but not sure where to start?
Before you leap into buying a turbo, why not consider turbo trainer hire? Hiring a turbo trainer gives you the opportunity to try before you buy, compare models and means you won’t be left having to get rid of it if you decide it’s not for you.
In this article we delve into the detail of turbo trainer hire. We speak to Sarah Denness who runs Turbo Trainer Hire (they’re an online business, based in Surrey but delivering nationwide). Sarah started her website in 2019 after the success of Tri Wetsuit Hire, with the same goal of making training more accessible, flexible and affordable.
In this article we pick her brains on everything you might want to know about turbo trainer hire. From hiring a turbo vs buying one to technicalities such as “direct drive” vs “wheel on”!
We start with the basics…
...
You can read the full blog here on Epic Road Rides
Turbo trainer hire: what, why and how! - Epic Road Rides
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But don’t panic, because we have compiled the top tips for training for your first cycling event:
If you’d like to enter a cycling event next summer but aren’t sure where to start, why not take a look at Castle Race Series. They host events for all ages and abilities across the UK, Ireland & France.
When we received a message asking “Am I too heavy to use a turbo trainer?”, we were surprised by the lack of easily accessible information and clarity from brands and manufacturers about the weight limits of their products. So we’ve done the hard work and collated some of the most popular turbo brands and their weight limits.
Most brands don’t give a limit for their specific models; there tends to be a blanketed weight limit for all of their ranges. Wahoo’s website says that their limit “is based largely on the unique forces trainers place on the bike frame that aren't normally experienced while riding on the road.”
BRAND |
WEIGHT LIMIT (KG) |
WEIGHT LIMIT (LBS) |
Elite |
113 |
250 |
Saris |
136 |
300 |
Tacx |
125 |
275 |
Wahoo |
113 |
250 |
It is worth remembering that the weight limit is for the rider AND the bike. Bike weights can vary significantly - carbon bike frames are lighter than aluminum, and road bikes tend to be lighter than hybrids and mountain bikes.
If you still aren’t sure about buying a turbo, why not consider hiring one from us first? Take a look at our full range here.
If you have any questions then do get in touch, we're happy to help
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5 Benefits Of Hiring A Turbo Trainer
Considering a turbo? Here are 5 reasons to hire one, from Turbo Trainer Hire, this winter:
Back To Basics:
Simply put, a turbo trainer (TT) is an attachment for a bicycle that lets you ride the bike while stationary (and indoors). Although heavy, they’re relatively compact and they connect to your bike via the rear wheel, or in place of your rear wheel. Once you’re set up, you can jump on and get riding immediately.
When starting out with a TT, it’s important to know what sort of bike you have (road, hybrid, mountain) and therefore what type of trainer will suit your needs. Because of the external and internal wiring and cabling, you’d have to check with the manufacturer if it’s possible to turbo train with an electric bike.
Direct drive and wheel-on turbo trainers are the most popular types on the market. This is because they are more powerful and can be used with training software such as the virtual indoor cycling platform Zwift.
Direct drive trainers require you to remove your rear wheel so you can attach the bike onto the turbo via the swingarm. These are the most powerful, the quietest, and usually the most expensive types of TTs. If you’re not used to removing your rear wheel, it can be fiddly at first but if you’re not planning on cycling outside much in the winter, you won’t need to dismantle this set-up often.
Wheel-on turbo trainers are easier to set-up because you simply place the rear wheel in the allocated slot. When you cycle, your wheel pushes against the roller and creates resistance. Most people tend to use a training tyre for these types, so their normal wheels don’t wear out.
Here at Turbo Trainer Hire we rent out both direct drive and wheel-on trainers. Feel free to get in touch for any questions about which TT you should choose to suit you and your bike.
What’s The Difference Between A Turbo Trainer And A Peloton?
As we’ve just discussed, a turbo trainer is an attachment for your bicycle so you can ride it indoors. It’s great for fitness and for bike training when it’s too cold or dark outside, or you just don’t have enough time to go for a ride outdoors. Check out our pros and cons of turbo training here.
People who turbo train tend to be a member of the Zwift community - the digital platform where you virtually ride with other people, enter races, explore digital landscapes, interact with other riders and keep track of your training data*.
A Peloton is a smart exercise bike with a touchscreen tablet attached to it. Similar to a spin bike, you clip in your shoes (or cleats) and start riding. Via a monthly subscription, you can use the Peloton app which opens up a world of fitness classes and live leaderboards.
The Peloton bike is aimed more at the fitness class market, whereas a turbo trainer is aimed more at cyclists - an indoor tool to help cyclists train for the outdoors.
Both are relatively expensive to buy outright; a decent TT costs anything from about £400 to £2,000. A Peloton starts at £1,345 for just the bike, with a £39 monthly subscription to access the classes and full fitness content.
Why Should I Hire A Turbo Trainer?
Whether you want try a turbo before you invest your hard-earned cash, you’re visiting the UK for a short period and want to keep training, or you’ve signed up for a race next summer and think “OH MY GOSH I NEED TO GET TRAINING”, then hiring with us is the best solution!
We have a range of trainers and we can guide you through the process, from which one to hire, to how to set it up at home. We offer a flexible hiring period, from 2 weeks to 12 weeks, with options to extend and even purchase at the end of the rental period.
Check out our full range here.
*Smart trackers such as power metres and heart rate monitors are required to connect to Zwift in order to monitor training data.
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1. Fan
When you ride outside, you’re cooled by the airflow. Indoors it’s a completely different story and there’s nothing to cool you down. When you’re pushing lots of watts out, your body generates a lot of heat too. Without a fan, you’ll quickly overheat & get sweaty!
SHOP OUR FANS
2. Sweat Towels
Fan or no fan – on the turbo you will sweat. So keeping a towel within easy reach is a good idea. Like any gym equipment, this is going to need to go in a hot wash pretty regularly.
3. Floor Mat
Not only will you sweat on yourself, but you’ll also sweat all over your bike and floor. As sweat contains a lot of salt, this can damage both over time. The solution is to stick a mat over your training area. With noisier turbos, this will also help dampen any vibration, something particularly important when used on a hard floor.
4. Sweat Guards
Sweat can corrode components on bikes, especially anything with bearings like bottom brackets and hubs. By using a sweat guard over the handlebars and top tube, it’ll protect your bike from getting covered in sweat. Save on continually wiping down your bike or risking the corrosion of any steel or aluminium
components with a sweat guard. Clipping to the handlebars and running back towards the saddle, once you finish you can pop it in the wash with the rest of your kit.
5. Laptop and iPad stands for turbo training and indoor cycling
If you want to run programmes like Zwift or TrainerRoad you’ll also want a screen to display your data. A tablet or laptop is ideal, while a phone will do at a push. For larger screens, a dedicated stand can be useful.
SHOP OUR TABLES AND STANDS
6. App for virtual racing when indoor training
There are now several apps that can be paired with a smart trainer to simulate riding and racing. Letting you match up with people around the world on a range of virtual courses, by far the most popular is Zwift. But you may also consider… RGT Cycling , Rouvey, TrainerRoad
7. Front wheel riser block
A turbo trainer raises a bike’s rear wheel, so it’s a good idea to secure your front wheel in a riser block to reduce excess movement. While you can use the old fashioned method of sticking a couple of books under the front wheel to
counter this, we think you’re better off using a riser block.
8. Muc Off Indoor Training Cleaner
The Muc Off Cleaner and Sweat Protect can be used on all surfaces – including aluminium, stainless steel, plastic and carbon. The cleaner provides the perfect protection for all of your indoor training and gym equipment.
SHOP MUC OFF MUC-OFF INDOOR TRAINING SERIES
9. ANT+ receiver
ANT+ receiver is useful for ensuring ANT+ FE-C connectivity between your trainer and computer or laptop. This means that these devices will be able to communicate with each other and ensure proper functionality. There is nothing more frustrating then loosing connectivity mid session!
10. Turbo Trainer Tyre
Trainer tyres are useful for riders who have a wheel-on trainer.
Specific turbo trainer tyres use special compounds designed to stop the tyre overheating and make it last longer. Read our blog here “Turbo Trainer tyres; do I need one? which do you recommend?”
Just keep in mind that trainer tyres are not suitable for riding outdoors.
SHOP OUR TURBO TYRES
We hope you find this article useful. If you have any questions then just shout – we are on hello@turbotrainerhire.co.uk
Sporting Regards
The Turbo Trainer Hire Team
1. Make sure you set up your turbo trainer securely
The last thing you want when you are head down sprinting out an interval is to feel your bike rocking or moving.
2. Front wheel block
If your turbo trainer is supplied with a front wheel block. Please use as these help make sure your bike is sturdy, so you can cycle at full pelt without worrying about toppling over or weakening your connection with the trainer.
We sell a selection of front wheel blocks - shop here
3. Turbo Trainer tyres
If you are training with a wheel on turbo, we recommend replacing your rear tyre with a turbo trainer specific tyre to stop you rear tyre ‘over heating’ and ‘wearing’ down.
Remember Turbo training tyres are not designed for road use.
We sell a selection of turbo training tyres - shop here
4. Keep your cool
Without the cooling airflow, you create when cycling outside turbo training sessions can get incredibly hot and sticky; you will sweat more than you thought possible. An ideal turbo training area would include a fan, or be near to an open window, as indoor training can get seriously hot
5. Fuel
Indoor training is hard. Don’t forget to look after your body indoors the same way you do outdoors. Ensure you are properly hydrated and drinking throughout your session. Any very hard session, or any ride longer than an hour, requires carbohydrates.
6. Train Smart
Turbo training has been totally transformed in the last ten years with the introduction of power, apps and virtual training. The sweat is still real but, like a video game, you can now navigate your way around online training courses, whether this is the notorious Zwift Island or a chance to ride the UCI World Road Race course, you can now cycle anywhere, at any time.
We love to hear about your experiences on our turbos, if you have any top tips that might help other hirers leave a comment below!
If you have any questions, drop us an email at hello@turbotrainerhire.co.uk
]]>Most of the direct drive smart turbo trainers on the market are designed as standard for bikes with anywhere from an 8 to 11 speed cassette on the wheel. However it is possible to use a 12 speed cassette on a direct drive turbo trainer.
Please see below our guide to 4 Direct Drive Turbo Trainers on the market:
SRAM Mountain Bike Group Sets:
Saris XD/XDR Hub
Wahoo XD/XDR Hub
The KICKR and CORE XD/XDR Freehub Body enables the use of SRAM’s 12-speed XD and XDR cassettes on Wahoo’s direct drive turbo trainers.
Shimano Road Bike Group Sets:
Basically 12 speed are not straightfoward however watch this space, perhaps we will see new direct drives been launched on the market which are 12 speed compatable!
If you have any questions about our turbo trainers and how our hire works then just don't hesitate to get in touch
Sporting Regards
The Turbo Trainer Hire Team
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1. Top Hat Issue
Overtightening of the axle end caps can cause the top hat spacer to snap and crumble (like the image below).
The top hat sits behind the Freehub. There is no torque spec for the end cap. It should be hand tightened. If your top hat has snapped/crumbled then this can be replaced, we stock these to sell - link here
2. Belt needs cleaning or replacing
After time you may find that the belt needs replacing or cleaning.
If you have a Saris H3, then you will have a smooth belt. The Saris product code is: SAR9734T. Please see link below
Saris H3 / CycleOps H2 Direct Drive Belt Replacement – Turbo Trainer Hire
3. Power Supply Issue
A common issue with the H3 is the status light on the unit is not coming on when plugged in even when the plug indicator showing green. This issue is usually caused by a faulty power supply.
We sell replacement power supply plugs- link here
Looking for a Turbo Trainer Service or Repair?
If you are looking for a turbo trainer service or repair then we have partnered with some great specialist repair teams who are each experts in what they do. Please contact us via our Repairs Page - link here
Sporting Regards
The Turbo Trainer Hire Team
]]>This is our cool idea - link here to hire
If you are interested in learning more about our turbo trainer bags then get in touch.
Sporting Regards
The Turbo Trainer Hire Team
]]>We've asked our friends Robbie Ferri, an ultra-distance cyclist and spin instructor, to answer that question for you:
It’s a challenging question to answer as it depends on the individual. In this article, I want to tell you the Pros and Cons of each so you can make the right decision for yourself.
A turbo trainer is an attachment for a bicycle that lets you use it while stationary. They are commonly seen in many home gyms, used by cycling professionals to warm up, and often used in bike shops for bike fitting. When using a turbo trainer, you will need your own bike.
An exercise bike is a full sized bike that works while stationary. You will commonly see these in commercial gyms, spinning classes, and sometimes in people’s homes. Unlike turbo trainers, exercise bikes work alone without the need for a bike.
Turbo Trainers over the past few years have come a very long way. They have given us the ability to turn our road or mountain bike into a stationary exercise bike. Thanks to turbos, we can submerge ourselves into a completely different world of indoor training.
Through digital software like Zwift, we can go into virtual reality and race people worldwide. We can train like pros to workouts designed by the best and interact with others doing the same. We have super accurate power meters and automatic electronic resistance on these to help us get the best out of the time spent on them. This sounds amazing, but turbo trainers and indoor bike trainers do come with some big Pros and Big Cons and won’t be for everyone.
Just like Turbo Trainers, Exercise bikes and spin bikes have come a long way over the years. We used to have very basic bikes, only telling you minimal data such as time rode and calories. A few years ago, they got a big technology boost and exercising became more fun.
Along came the invention of bikes like the Peloton. We now have 22” screens on the front of these bikes, and we no longer have to go to a spin class. We can track our fitness better with power meters and cadence sensors. We even have the Nordic Track S22i which automatically shifts the bike into a climb, pointing the front at the ceiling. The technology on a stationary bike has become incredible.
I feel it all comes down to the needs of the individual. If you are an outdoor cyclist and are looking at getting stronger on your bike over winter, a Turbo Trainer is for you. It gives you the ability to be on the same bike you will be on outdoors. It’s cheaper to buy, and it helps you get used to the position on the bike much better than an exercise bike. A smart turbo trainer will always offer more value than an exercise bike if you have a bike ready to go with it.
If you’re an avid spinner and love indoor cycling classes, you should get an exercise bike. It will feel much more natural, give you a similar experience to what you get in a spinning studio. With bikes like the Peloton, you get loads of other value added features such as HIIT and Yoga classes. It's a spin bike ready for a serious cardio workout.
Whatever you pick, you will get value from it, and it will improve your fitness. We all know the benefits of exercise to our physical and mental health. It all comes down to personal preference, and there’s no wrong answer.
Robbie Ferri
I am an Ultra Distance Cyclist from the UK. I have been lucky enough to have broken world records and been in many bikepacking races. If I’m not riding bikes I’m writing about them.
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Please see below some of the common questions we get asked about how to service direct driver trainers...
What tools do you need to open the trainer?
Its very important to use an imperial 1 / 8” allen key and not a 5mm allen key to remove the five small button head screws. They are similar in size but using a 5mm allen key with damage the internal hex on the bolts making removal really difficult.
What do you recommend to lube the belt with?
CRC belt conditioner:
32736 | CRC Lubricant 500 ml BELT GRIP PRO | RS Components (rs-online.com)
How do you clean the belt?
This quick video is great at showing how to clean the belt:
(9) Mancave Maintenance, CycleOps Hammer Noise Remedy - YouTube
What if I need a new belt?
If you have a CycleOps H2, then you will have a 'toothed' belt. The Saris product code is: SAR9732T Please see link below
Saris H3 / CycleOps H2 Direct Drive Belt Replacement – Turbo Trainer Hire
If you have a Saris H3, then you will have a smooth belt. The Saris product code is: SAR9734T. Please see link below
Saris H3 / CycleOps H2 Direct Drive Belt Replacement – Turbo Trainer Hire
Looking for a Turbo Trainer Service or Repair?
If you are looking for a turbo trainer service or repair then we have partnered with some great specialist repair teams who are each experts in what they do. Please contact us via our Repairs Page - link here
If you have any qs about how to service your CycleOps H2/ Saris then give us a shout
Sporting Regards
Turbo Trainer Hire Team
]]>A common reason for hiring a turbo trainer is hiring for a few weeks whilst your trainer has been sent off to be fixed with the manufacturer.
We understand that you may not know how long exactly it's going to take to fix your trainer as you are waiting for customer services to let you know! Here at Turbo Trainer Hire, we are happy for you to hire for 1 week as a starter and then add a 1 week hire at time. We can flexible with you and help keep your training on plan.
From our experience we often find it is direct drive turbo trainers that take the longest time to resolve issues with manufacturers. Don't worry, we have a range of reliable direct drive trainers in our range available to hire (subject to availability at the time) - so you can be confident you can keep your training up!
Looking for a Turbo Trainer Service or Repair?
If you are looking for a turbo trainer service or repair then we have partnered with some great specialist repair teams who are each experts in what they do. Please contact us via our Repairs Page - link here
If you have any questions about our turbo trainers or how the hire works then just get in touch on hello@turbotrainerhire.co.uk
Sporting Regards
The Turbo Trainer Hire Team
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Specific turbo trainer tyres use special compounds designed to stop the tyre overheating and make it last longer.
]]>Specific turbo trainer tyres use special compounds designed to stop the tyre from overheating and make it last longer.
The constant friction between the roller and the tyre will generate a lot more heat than you would ever get in a normal road cycling situation. As a result standard road bike tyres will quickly start to overheat and will then wear quickly. We have seen people destroy normal road cycling tyres within a few weeks when using them on a turbo trainer..
Specific turbo training tyres also have a smoother surface so that you get a better connection to the trainer and can use your power more efficiently.
As you don’t need to worry about grip in corners or damp road surfaces on a turbo trainer the turbo trainer specific tyres can do away with any surface features. This does mean that turbo trainer specific tyres can’t be used outside, one of the reasons why they are normally a bright colour. If you are going to be using your bike inside and outside during the winter it makes sense to invest in a cheap spare wheel so you are not constantly having to change tyres and pump them up.
Which do you recommend?
The turbo trainer specific tyres that we recommend are the ones from Saris, Continental and Schwalbe. Depending which size you require depends which brand.
What sizes are the turbo training specific tyres?
I hope you find this blog useful. If you have any questions we will always try our best to help. Our email is hello@turbotrainerhire.co.uk
Sporting Regards
The Turbo Trainer Hire Team
]]>‘What thru axle adapter do I need to mount my bike onto a turbo trainer?’
‘My bike has a thru axle, will it still work on a turbo?’
Here at Turbo Trainer Hire, these are some of the frequently asked questions we get asked. We get lots of enquiries from people who have purchased (or hired) a turbo trainer and then find it doesn’t fit as their bike has a thru axel. We hope this blog helps explain how you can still use a turbo trainer if your bike a has a thru axel...
Does my bike rear wheel have a Skewer or Thru Axel?
Thru axles are newer; they have been in mountain bikes since around 2010 and are now common in road bikes as well. But there are still many bikes that have skewers.
A quick release (QR) skewer is a thin rod that goes into an axle (inside a hub). A QR is 5mm thick and is steel. It looks something like this:
A thru axel is a thicker rod, the common rear axle is 12mm in diameter. Like the image below. Thru axles are different because they thread directly into your bike frame. Your bike has a thru axle if the “drop out” is a hole, rather than a U-shaped dropout. Thru axles provide a stiffer ride, which is beneficial for mountain bikers.
If my bike has Thru Axel, how do I mount my bike onto a Wheel On Turbo Trainer?
You need to check what size your thru axel is and then will you need to purchase a thru axle adapter which fits your bike.
Why do I need a Thru Axel adapter?
Adaptors for use with wheel-on trainers are longer than normal axles that you use in place of your bike's standard thru axle. They extend out far enough on each side that the trainer can firmly lock your bike in place.
Thru Axle adapters simply replace the thru axle on your bike and are meant for mounting in a trainer.
How do I know what size adapter I need?
To check your size firstly pull your thru axle out and measure the dimensions.
There are 3 dimensions you need:
1. Thread pitch of your axle: Place your axle threads on top of the Fitment Guide image below to find the matching thread pitch. Determine if it is a 1.0, 1.5, or 1.75 thread pitch.
Please note: Specialized bikes are usually always 1mm thread pitches
2. Length of the diameter: measure the end of your axle shaft.
3. Length of the axle: measure the straight length of your axle shaft. Include the over-locknut dimensions
Once you have your dimensions you need to purchase the correctly fitting thru axle adapter.
Saris / CycleOps have 3 sizes of Thru Axel Adapters, which size do I need?
Saris / CycleOps offer 3 different models:
Why do some of the CycleOps thru axle adapters come with a short slider?
Essentially, all these adapters just provide a mounting surface on the outside of the axle for the trainer cups to hold onto, and are strong enough to withstand the clamping force of the trainer. There are limits though – mountain bikes with Boost 148mm spacing may require special consideration due to the extra width. In this case, Cycleops sells their 148mm adapter with a shorter slide for the trainer to fit.
Can I use a Saris / CycleOps branded thru axel adapter on a Tacx / Wahoo / Kinetic / Elite / other branded turbo trainer or are the Saris / CycleOps branded thru axel adapters specific to Saris / Cycleops?
Potentially, you can use Brand A's trainer with Brand B's adaptors, although Brand A might say that its own adaptors provide the most stability and you will need to double check the sizing. If in doubt, you're safest sticking with one brand. Make sure you do the proper research on the size of your thru-axle.
What is the difference between Saris & CycleOps branded thru axel adapters?
There is no difference. Saris acquired the CycleOps brand in 2019. The Thru Axle adapter is exactly the same just different packaging and branding!
Are direct drive turbo trainers compatible with thru axel bikes?
Most direct drive trainers like the CycleOps Hammer H2 or Saris H3 which are used without the rear wheel of the bike, are already thru axle compatible and so you don’t need to purchase any special adapters.
You just simply need to fit the correct fitting end caps for the “hub” which then allows you to use a standard QR, 142 x 12mm, or even 148 x 12 thru axle. The different end caps are supplied with turbo trainer. The CycleOps Hammer H2 or Saris H3 Includes 6 original end caps which are compatible with 130/135mm quick release skewers and 142/148x12 thru axles.
If you have any qs about which Thru Axle Adapter you require then just contact us at hello@turbotrainerhire.co.uk
Sporting Regards,
The Turbo Trainer Hire team
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Get out on your bike
At the start of lockdown we were restricted to the amount of exercise we could do however this has now eased and we are able to have some more freedom so it’s the perfect time to dust off your bikes and get out in the fresh air. Time yourself every time you head out and give yourself a goal to focus on, always aim to beat your personal best!
Try indoor cycling
If you're in a position to make an investment, it might be the perfect time to get a turbo trainer. Here at Turbo Trainer Hire, we understand that buying a new turbo trainer outright can be a very costly outgoing so we offer affordable and convenient turbo hire for all. Our range of reputable brands such as Saris would be the perfect way to keep you in tip top condition. Hire for 2 weeks all the way up to 12 weeks at flexible rates, whether you are keen to track performance or completely new to turbo trainers, we will have a product suitable for you over at https://turbotrainerhire.co.uk/.
Ride in the virtual world
Grab your cowbell and casquette and get ready to be a part of cycling history! Starting July 4, watch three exciting weekends of world-class competition as your favourite pro teams and riders go head to head in the Virtual Tour de France! Witness history in the making as both men and women race identical stages and distances—in separate events—competing for individual and team points.
Want to ride the same roads as the pros? Join in each weekend in a three-stage event starting in Watopia before heading to our brand new France map for the Virtual L’Etape du Tour de France. More information here https://zwift.com/uk/virtual-tour-de-france?utm_source=email&utm_medium=btn1-viewallevents&utm_campaign=zwift_ride_en_virtualtourdefrance_announcement_june20
Stay connected with friends
Now more than ever, it's important to stay connected with family and friends. FaceTiming, Zooming and Skyping have certainly kept us all sane during lockdown, helping us stay up-to-date with our nearest and dearest, although I don’t know about you but I am pleased to see the back of the family Zoom quizzes now! But what about you’re cycling buddies or your local cycling club? Surely they're off-limits at the moment? Well, maybe not. Apps like Zwift come with group ride options where you can take on the course together, with the option to chat and keep each other motivated.
Take some time for yourself
Staying on top of your fitness is important for your mental health, but taking some time to rest is too. This is an emotionally trying time for all sorts of reasons, so make sure you give yourself a moment to reflect. Consider working some meditation into your schedule or just taking things a little slower! It will help you clear your mind, relax and gear up for the next challenge, whatever form it might take.
Sporting Regards,
Sarah D
hello@turbotrainerhire.co.uk
Luckily, Turbo Trainer Hire have stayed open throughout this whirlwind time and to be honest, our sales have rocketed because it seems like it’s never been a better time to exercise indoors and work on our fitness levels! I suppose we haven’t really had anything else to do have we!?
We are beyond grateful to have been able to stay open and it’s given us great thinking time with regards to bettering our service and where we are to go next with Turbo Trainer Hire….
With that in mind, we are delighted to announce that we are expanding our product range and introducing some new brothers and sisters to the mix to enhance and compliment your turbo trainer hire! We are over the moon to be able to expand our product range and it's all down to you, our loyal customers, so thank you to those who have been on board our movement so far!
Our little business is growing, which is such a HUGE (and a little bit of a scary) step for us but, we couldn't be happier for this move and we feel it’s come at a perfect time!
Launching right in time for summer it's never been a better time to think about taking your training to the next level or adding some adventure fun to your summer family staycation and we feel our various new products will be a great match for you! We are expanding our hire to not just a wide range of Turbo Trainers, from today, you can now hire Power Meters, Bike Racks AND Trailers perfect for kids. Whether you are looking for that new gadget to monitor and improve your performance on the bike or looking for a sturdy solution to transporting your bikes from A-B, Turbo Trainer Hire can help!
So what are we launching I hear you say!?
Power Meter Pedals
Been enjoying your turbo trainer but now looking for your next gadget to take your training to the next level?
Get an in-depth understanding of your performance, with the PowerTap Quarq P2 Dual Sided Power Meter Pedals. Building on the original P1 pedals, this version is extremely light at just 398 grams per pair, with a 20% improved battery life - now 80 hours. The dual-sided measurement is highly accurate; to within +/- 1.5% of your true wattage, and you gain access to Advanced Pedal Metrics when the P2's are paired with the mobile app via Bluetooth. It’s as easy as that!
With a construction that is resistant to the elements, these pedals will enhance your training year-round and offer top durability and reliability.
https://turbotrainerhire.co.uk/collections/power-meter-hire
Bike Roof Racks
Going away for your annual holiday? Or recently booked a staycation for the family? Transporting your family bikes can be one of the most daunting tasks. Trying to figure out how and where they will all fit.
Will the bikes be secure enough?
Will we have that dreaded moment everyone fears when driving down the motorway of a lost bike?
It can also get quite expensive to buy high quality travel bags or boxes, so why not try before you buy and use our bike transportation hire service? Our Saris Bones 3-Bike Rack hire is compatible with most vehicles and can carry 3 bikes. Built with 100% recyclable materials, it’s the strongest frame on the market and is very light weight, weighing in at a perfect weight of 9 lbs, lighter than some babies!
https://turbotrainerhire.co.uk/collections/bike-transportation-hire
Kids Bike Trailers
With the staycations ever growing, it’s never been a better time to book that adventure trip you’ve been wanting to take the kids on and I am sure there will be a time when the little ones are exhausted so hiring a trailer from us would be an ideal solution to rest those little legs. Which is why at Turbo Trainer Hire, we wanted to come up with a solution that was inclusive for all family members. Bringing the practical aspect to adventure staycations but with a hell of a lot of fun!
Our Burley trailers provide a safe, comfortable ride around the forest. With tinted windows, non-absorbent covers and seat padding, the trailer is a great option for children from 9 months to 5 years. The design is easily wiped down for cleaning and dries quickly so no need to worry about getting caught in that dreaded rain if it comes!
https://turbotrainerhire.co.uk/collections/kids-bike-trailer-hire
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Again, expanding our products would not have been able to happen if it wasn’t for our loyal customers who are on board with our mission and who are shouting about us to friends, family, colleagues and more! We are so passionate about the products we have on offer to hire and will continue to grow, expand and move with the times! No one ever predicted the start of this year so who knows what’s next!?
We would love for you to check out our product range and we hope to see some orders being placed over at https://turbotrainerhire.co.uk/
As always, if you have any questions or want to get in touch direct, give us a shout on hello@turbotrainerhire.co.uk, we love to hear from you as well so keep those stories and pictures coming in guys!
Sporting Regards,
Turbo Trainer Team
]]>For those new to turbo trainers, this is an important question: there are many differences between the two options, but the end objective – effective year-round bike training – remains the same. We know you have questions, so we have compiled the most frequently asked along with our responses…
Wheel on turbos and direct drive turbos 101 – how do they work with my bike?
A wheel on turbo clamps around the quick release skewer of a bike’s rear wheel suspending it in an A-frame. This frame positions the rear tyre so that it sits on a roller, and as you pedal and spin your rear wheel the roller turns too. The direct drive turbo trainer model requires you to remove the rear wheel and cassette from your bike and attach it to the cassette built into the turbo trainer, so it is a more integrated approach. On paper, the set up of a direct drive turbo does sound tricky and for those new to cycling it might be off-putting, but here at Turbo Trainer Hire we are happy to help set up the correct cassette onto your turbo and make this transition as easy as can be. Like with any new sport, these things do all become second nature, and knowing your way around your bike in order to set it up can only, in the long run, be a positive thing for the keen cyclist.
There is more than one cyclist in our house…
If you’re going to have multiple users of your turbo then the wheel on turbo might be an easier option for you. Not every direct drive turbo is compatible with every bike cassette, so you may find that the one you have hired or purchased won’t necessarily work with the multiple cyclists in your house who would like to use their bike on it. If you do go with a direct drive turbo for a multi-use household, make sure that you choose a model that is compatible with all the bikes using it.
I don’t have a lot of time to set it up…
Some lucky folk have a more than one road bike and so are happy to leave one of them set up all the time as their “turbo bike” – in which case we would suggest that the direct drive would provide the most optimal turbo experience. However, for those with just a solitary bike you may wish to consider both turbo options and then also your skill at removing bike parts and setting up the turbo before every use. This is not to say that the wheel on option is an uber quick option: time saved in set up may most likely be spent in checking tyres are clean, tyre pressure is optimal and roller tension is satisfactory. With both options you are going to need to expect to spend a little time getting your turbo set up to enhance your home cycling experience.
Can I use smart technology on either option, and is it worth it?
Yes you can (and YES it is), although whilst all direct drive turbos are compatible with smart technology, not all wheel on options are – so check before you hire or buy. Zwift, TrainerRoad and the many other smart options have absolutely revolutionised the world of turbo training with their realistic landscapes, multi-cyclist racing and even National Cycling eRacing Championships taking place. You can become a world cycling champion without stepping foot outside the front door. The cycling world is your oyster.
When optimising use of smart technology, the response speed from the direct drive turbos is superior to that of the wheel on turbos, and performance data is significantly more accurate. This makes for a very real cycling experience. Whether these aspects clinch the deal would really depend on your individual preference – how important is it for your turbo to be at peak performance, and, if it wasn’t, would you actually notice?
What about the price tag?
Direct drive turbo trainers are not cheap to purchase and can easily be more expensive than your bike itself! Add onto this the extra costs - such as cassette, tools and your virtual training app memberships - and it is not a cheap hobby. Here at Turbo Trainer Hire we want to offer a more affordable solution, hence we offer the option to hire a model for those more unpredictable winter months. If you go down the wheel on option it is much more affordable, so something to consider if you are just starting out on the turbo trainer route and aren’t sure if it’s for you just yet. Our most inexpensive wheel on hire option is just £25 for a two week hire block, so a pretty small outlay if you just wanted to try it to see. We also stock some superb, high performing direct drive models too, so something for everyone. Take a look at the options: https://turbotrainerhire.co.uk/.
Are they portable?
Yes – but wheel on turbos are much lighter than the direct drive models: 10/12kg for the wheel on versus 20/22kg for the direct drive. Wheel on turbos also often fold up smaller, so if storage and size/weight is a consideration for you then this is worth thinking about. If you hire from us we arrange a courier to deliver your turbo straight to your front door and then, when it’s time to return it (unless you choose to purchase it at that time), we can also arrange a courier to collect and bring it back to our warehouse.
What about Smart Indoor Bike Trainers?
The newest of technology – smart bikes have really bridged the gap between turbo trainers and road cycling. However, this innovation doesn’t come without a hefty price tag and a few considerations. With a smart bike – Peloton or Atom being the most well known options – you are essentially buying a stationary bike, like one you’d use in a spin class. Being the whole unit, plus the inbuilt technology, you are looking at spending upwards of £1,000 for an entry level model with an ongoing commitment to purchase a monthly Zwift, Peloton or similar plan. Long term, knowing that you are going to use a turbo trainer on a regular basis, this may be the dream, but it is a huge outlay, and it is a large, heavy (the Wattbike Atom weighs 44kg) piece of kit to keep out year-round. In my view, a real bike frame is more aligned to your road experience and reflects a better approach to training. But something for the 2022 wish list, perhaps?
All in all, choosing which model of turbo trainer comes down to personal preference with regards time, space, price and performance. Here at Turbo Trainer Hire we know all about turbo trainers – they are our thing – so have a chat with us before you commit and we will provide the information you need to help you make your decision. And, knowing you can hire one on a term as short as two weeks, what do you have to lose?
Sporting Regards
The Turbo Trainer Hire team
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But cycling is great exercise, so how do we go about doing it all year round? The answer is easy – arise the humble turbo trainer.
Of course turbo trainers have been around for years, but in the past few years with the development of smart technology, the consumer experience of cycling on a turbo has been totally revolutionised –with Zwift (www.zwift.com), TrainerRoad (www.trainerroad.com) and others coming into the market, the world (almost literally) is your cycling oyster. Not only do these technologies allow you to cycle the world from the comfort of your home, but they also log data which you can be used to improve your training and, ultimately, make you a better cyclist.
“Ride as much or as little, as long or as short as you feel. But ride” – Eddy Merckx
As a frequent turbo trainer user, I am the first to sing their praises: compared to getting out on your bike it is really liberating owning and using a turbo. There is no checking the weather forecast, no having to get up at the crack of dawn to avoid traffic, no layering up to avoid the cold, no worrying about punctures, lights, the amount of charge in my phone. Ok so my neighbour fell off his turbo trainer and thought he may have broken his arm (true story), but in general, they are the safest cycling option out there, and a brilliant option if you’re recovering from an injury, or during pregnancy – any times really when road cycling just doesn’t feel like a good option.
It is also the most efficient cycle training I do – and some of the hardest too – with most of my turbo rides climbing far greater than my road rides. I have exerted my body to the highest level whilst turbo training, and yes - it’s true that you miss the essence of road cycling whilst turbo-training (the views, the banter, the coffee breaks) - but to get an efficient 45 minute blast of training into our every more busy lives, with the benefit of only being a moment away from the sofa if you blow up, the turbo is really a very effective solution.
So now is the time for the turbo. But why hire?
It all sounds very easy – just go out and buy a turbo trainer to use for those winter months. But good quality, high performing turbo trainers are expensive, take up a fair amount of room, and will potentially sit, unused for six months of the year. They need to be stored properly to avoid moisture damage, and then, when you get them out to use them again, you find technology has moved on and there is a better model available on the market.
So this is where www.TurboTrainerHire.co.uk come into our own. We have sourced the best models over different price points that you can hire for a couple of weeks, a few months, or the whole of the winter season. Once we’re through the worst weather you can then send it back and choose another, probably improved version, to hire from us next autumn. Or, if you have grown to love the model you’ve been using, you can simply buy it from us (which also saves you the hassle of sending it back).
There is so much more flexibility when hiring a turbo – it’s a great idea for overseas visitors who are only in the UK for a short while, or equally for events organisers who might want one for an event they are running. We are always happy to chat about what we do and options available to you.
With so many options available, which turbo trainer should I go for?
That is a very particular question, probably requiring another blog entirely, but in brief, talk to us at hello@turbotrainerhire.co.uk and we will offer advice as to which of our turbos would most suit your cycling needs. We pride ourselves on offering the best performance models.
Our ethos with www.TurboTrainerHire.co.uk, as with our sister site www.TriWetsuitHire.co.uk, is to help you achieve your sporting goals. We are a small company but we are passionate about what we do and the products we offer. We also love to talk all things sport & fitness. So get in touch and find out how you can start your turbo trainer journey with us this winter.
Sporting Regards,
Sarah D
hello@turbotrainerhire.co.uk
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