Great training all year round

When the snow came last week we put on our shorts and summer vest and hit the turbo trainer with gusto, smiling through all those miles we rode whilst the world turned white and wonderful outside.

We wouldn't be happy with any old trainer though, so we opted for the Cycleops Fluid2 trainer due to it's claims of its improved road-like feel. Well let's face it it would be preferable to be out on the road but when time or weather demand otherwise a real feeling turbo trainer is essential.

The Fluid2 has a larger flywheel and self-cooling mechanisms, including a patented fan design, which helps keep the unit cooler and rolling smoothly for longer. The Fluid2 lives up to its name, it really is fluid and the resistance is smooth and has a progressive feel throughout the pedal stroke and gearing. We especially liked the way you changed the resistance, feeling just like it would on the road by using the normal gearing of the bike. The road like feel was evident throughout the full range of gears from a fast cadence warm-up to a big hill or sprint session in the big ring.

After the smooth and road-like realistic feel to the Fluid2 the noise, well lack of noise, was a big winner. Not only could we hear the music over the slight wirring noise but most importantly other people in the house didn't hear it or feel any vibration. It's the first time we haven't been banished ot the garage for our training sessions!

Being able to get the bike on and off the trainer quickly and easily is essential and the Fluid2's Cam-Lever tightens the axle onto the resistance unit with one swift movement. We could do it on our own without any real effort and the bike was secure and stable without any adjustment or fuss. The stability of the trainer is pretty impressive too with sturdy legs and a wide base.