Cycling on Rollers: Motion Characteristics for Dynamic Stability

PURPOSE: Compare bike and rider motion characteristics on a stationary trainer with those on rollers at similar power outputs. METHODS: Experienced cyclists (n = 5) rode at similar power outputs on a CycleOps Supermagneto trainer and CycleOps aluminum rollers with magnetic resistance. Power was measured with an instrumented rear wheel (Powertap SL+) and targeted to demand 70% of peak oxygen uptake. RESULTS: Similar power outputs were obtained for both conditions (275 + or - 42 W). Considerable fluctuation of crank angular velocity was evident during a pedaling cycle with peak rotation rate near mid-downstroke and minima with pedals near top or bottom of the rotation. Some riders exhibited shifts of timing for peak angular velocity from trainer to rollers. While bike motion on the stationary trainer was minimal as expected, medio-lateral motion on the rollers was about 22 mm (SD about midpoint).