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The Best Bike Trainer

Last updated on November 8, 2021

We looked at the top 15 Bike Trainers and dug through the reviews from 54 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best Bike Trainers.

Best Bike Trainer

Our Review Process

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If you’re training for an upcoming distance cycling event, the great outdoors isn’t always an option. A bike trainer lets you keep up your training indoors, whether the weather outside is clear or rainy, warm or cold. You can simply set a trainer up in an area of your home and use it with your outdoor bike, giving you those hours of practice you need every day.

But training isn’t the only use of a bike trainer. Bike trainers make a great alternative to stationary bikes, possibly even saving you some money if you already have a bike to use with it. You’ll get the same experience you’d get outdoors, especially if you choose a trainer with resistance settings. A stationary bike is different in a way you likely know if you’ve ever used one.

But not all trainers offer resistance settings. In recent years, magnetic resistance has become popular in bike trainers. Instead of using belts, these trainers pass electricity through magnets, with the electricity controlling how the magnets respond to each other, creating a smooth resistance that improves what you get out of your workout.

Stephanie Mansour, a certified personal trainer and the founder of fitness brand Step It Up With Steph, recommends bike trainers as great cardio tools for people who love to bike. Before making a bike trainer purchase, the first thing to consider, she says, is to ensure you actually enjoy biking.

“If you’re going to invest in a piece of cardio equipment, make sure that you actually enjoy doing that form of cardio,” she says.

Once you’re ready to start shopping, you should take a look at your tires and make sure you choose a trainer built for your type of bike. All trainers have a limit as to the bikes they’ll support. So if your cycle has unusually sized tires, you may find you have a tougher time finding a trainer that works with it. You’ll also need to look for a bike trainer with a sturdy base to avoid wobbling, especially if you plan to ride vigorously.

In addition to sturdiness, your bike trainer’s build also factors into how long it lasts, even with numerous hours of use. Most trainers are made to last but pay close attention to the materials that were used to put your trainer together. You may also want to consider what you’ll do with your trainer when it isn’t in use. Some trainers fold up easily so that you can tuck them away when you have company coming or simply want to keep your living spaces clear.

Chances are, noise will be a factor when you’re using your trainer, particularly if you live in an apartment or want to train while others are sleeping. Some trainers build in noise reduction technology to keep it to a minimum. However, if you have thicker tires, such as those seen on mountain bikes, you may find that some noise is emitted even with that technology.

Like most athletes in training, you probably want to track your progress using a smartphone app. To get that functionality with most bike trainers, you’ll need to invest in a third-party app. You also may want to spring for a stand that will mount your phone to your bike indoors. You probably won’t need one quite as sturdy as the type you’d need for mounting your phone for use outdoors.

Our Picks For The Top Bike Trainers

View All Recommendations
Product Overview
Our Take
Pros
Cons
 Top Pick

BalanceFrom Steel Magnetic Stand Bike Trainer

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

BalanceFrom

Steel Magnetic Stand Bike Trainer

Since this bike trainer has a wide compatibility, chances are your road or mountain bike will fit nicely. The trainer uses a set of rubber feet to protect hardwood flooring and a wide base to support up to 330 pounds. Riders will appreciate the eight resistance levels, which are controlled right from the handlebars of the bike.

Overall Take

A Quiet RunThis bike trainer uses a quick release clamp that makes installing and using the device a breeze.

 Runner Up

Alpcour Magnetic Quick-Release Indoor Bike Trainer

Alpcour

Magnetic Quick-Release Indoor Bike Trainer

If you're looking for a compact bike trainer that is easily portable, this model is your best bet. It folds up with ease and comes with a carry bag for storage and transport. Users will also appreciate the built-in noise reduction technology and the six different resistance levels.

Overall Take

Handy DesignIncluded with this bike trainer is a sturdy storage bag with a carry handle for easy transport.

Pros
" It is a very sturdy bike stand that has been designed from quality heavy-duty stainless steel; hence a great selection for long-term use."
Cons
"The bike trainer is quite noisy."
 We Also Like

FDW Indoor Magnetic Bike Trainer Stand

FDW

Indoor Magnetic Bike Trainer Stand

This bike trainer is super easy to assemble and can be ready for use in as little as 15 minutes. It offers five resistance levels, so you can tailor the bike to match your skill level. If you want to workout while your baby or toddler is sleeping, you can set the bike to resistance level one, which runs at less than 60 decibels.

Overall Take

Versatile PickWhether you're a beginner or a pro, you'll find this bike trainer with five resistance levels a good buy.

Pros
" The fact it has variable resistance makes it more desirable than a single resistance trainer so this is a definite plus."
Cons
"Riding out of the seat makes it unstable."
 Strong Contender

RAD Cycle Products Max Racer Magnetic Resistance Bike Trainer

RAD Cycle

Max Racer Magnetic Resistance Bike Trainer

Not only is this bike trainer lightweight, but it also fits nicely in the trunk of a car or a hallway closet. The bike runs quietly and offers a total of seven resistance levels. You can also count on the bike remaining sturdy, even during a rigorous use, as it's constructed with wider legs.

Overall Take

Easy to StoreIf space in your home is limited, you'll want to go with this bike trainer, which folds up small to fit just about anywhere.

Don't just take for granted what one reviewer says. Along with our own experts, DWYM analyzes the top expert reviews of the leading products and generates a score you can actually trust.
22

Products Considered

We identified the majority of the bike trainers available to purchase.
15

Products Analyzed

We then selected the leading and most popular products for our team to review.

View All Product Rankings

54

Expert Reviews Included

In addition to our expert reviews, we also incorporate feedback and analysis of some of the most respected sources including: BestReviews, SuperAds, PProReviews, Put Product Reviews, Best Product Guider.

16,543

User Opinions Analyzed

We also incorporate user reviews from the leading retailers including

Our experts reviewed the top 15 Bike Trainers and also dug through the reviews from 54 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best of the best Bike Trainers.

DWYM is your trusted roduct review source. Our team reviews thousands of product reviews from the trusted top experts and combines them into one easy-to-understand score. Learn more.

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Look for the DWYM seal for products that are the best in their category.

Our Expert Consultant

Stephanie Mansour   
Certified Personal Trainer, Health and Wellness Expert

Stephanie Mansour, host of “Step It Up with Steph” on public broadcasting, has been coaching women for over a decade on how to lose weight and make it last. She has a Bachelor of Arts in communications with an emphasis on women’s studies and psychology from the University of Michigan. She holds certifications in life coaching, personal training, yoga and Pilates.

The Best Bang For Your Buck

FDW Indoor Magnetic Bike Trainer Stand

Our Expert Score

11.1
3 expert reviews

User Summarized Score

7.3
1,971 user reviews

Our Take

This bike trainer is super easy to assemble and can be ready for use in as little as 15 minutes. It offers five resistance levels, so you can tailor the bike to match your skill level. If you want to workout while your baby or toddler is sleeping, you can set the bike to resistance level one, which runs at less than 60 decibels.

What other experts liked

Both cheap and firm bike trainer construction, adjustable load.
- Best Advisor
The fact it has variable resistance makes it more desirable than a single resistance trainer so this is a definite plus.
- BikeTrainerReviews.net
Top notch magnet system which offers progressive magnetic resistance; as you increase speed, the resistance increases.
- Bike Trainer World

What other experts didn't like

An average noise level during your training as compared to other trainers.
- Best Advisor
Attaching the cable to your handlebars has the potential to be quite tricky.
- BikeTrainerReviews.net
Riding out of the seat makes it unstable.
- Bike Trainer World

What to Look For

  • The type of resistance is crucial if you’re training for an upcoming athletic event. Look for a model that offers six separate resistance settings. You can start your ride within the 1-2 range, getting the experience of riding on flat land. Push it to 3-4 for a slight incline, finally climbing to 5-6 to simulate the experience of tackling a steep hill.
  • The Alpcour Magnetic Quick-Release Indoor Bike Trainer features magnetic resistance which more closely emulates the feeling you’ll get when you’re riding outside.
  • When you’re riding indoors, noise is an important consideration. Opt for a bike trainer with a built-in noise reduction wheel to keep sound at a minimum.
  • One factor upping the volume, no matter what bike trainer you choose, is the type of tires you have. Thick tires like those found on mountain bikes can boost the noise factor.
  • Bike trainers are generally small, but they may need some assembly.
  • When you’re ready to take your bike outdoors, you’ll want to be able to easily eject it from the trainer. Some models have a press-down lever that lets you grab and go in a matter of seconds.
  • If you’re concerned about durability, your stand’s build will come into play. A model made from heavy-duty stainless steel will hold up after rigorous use.
  • Another concern when looking at a trainer is stability. Some bike trainers maximize stability due to their sturdy, wide bases. This means no matter how fast you go or how much weight you put on it, you won’t have to deal with the inconvenience of it wobbling.
  • Unless you plan to leave your bike in place when you’re not using it, storage is a consideration. The Alpcour Magnetic Quick-Release Indoor Bike Trainer folds up easily for storing when not in use.
  • Weight is also a factor, especially if you plan to fold your trainer up and take it on the go. On the extreme end is the RAD Cycle Max Racer Magnetic Resistance Bike Trainer, which is 18.3 pounds.
  • It’s important to consider capacity since some bike trainers have weight limits. Some models have been tested to handle up to 300 pounds.
  • Tipping can be a problem with indoor trainers. Look for trainers that protect against that through the use of a skewer, which attaches to your rear wheel to stabilize things.
  • To get that incline only found on outdoor hills, many consumers prop up the front using anything they can find, from phone books to bricks. For that reason, many trainers come with a riser that can provide that incline safely. Some models ship with a front-wheel riser block.
  • It’s important to pay close attention to the size limits of the trainer you choose since not all trainers work with all bikes. You may need a bike trainer that will hold any road or mountain bike that has either a 26-inch to 28-inch or a 700c wheel.
  • Some bike trainers are especially limited as they are designed for bikes that have a quick-release rear axle. They may also only fit 700c or 27-inch road bikes or 26-inch mountain bikes.
  • Since trainers can vary in price, you may want to consider that as you’re weighing the various features. No matter what, you’re sure to find one that fits your budget.
  • Although you won’t find most bike trainers connect up to smartphone apps automatically, there are third-party apps you can buy that will track your progress. You can also buy phone mounts for your own bike that you can use for mounting your phone while you’re using it inside.
  • If you’re concerned about scratching up your floors, look for a bike mount that has rubber feet. Anti-slip rubber feet not only protect your floors but also stabilize your bike even if your floors are uneven.

Bike Trainer Rankings

1. BalanceFrom Steel Magnetic Stand Bike Trainer

Overall Score: 9.8
Reviews Included: 1

2. Alpcour Magnetic Quick-Release Indoor Bike Trainer

Overall Score: 9.1
Reviews Included: 8

3. FDW Indoor Magnetic Bike Trainer Stand

Overall Score: 9.0
Reviews Included: 6

5. Bike Lane Pro Indoor Bike Trainer

Overall Score: 8.7
Reviews Included: 5

6. Sportneer Noise Reduction Magnetic Bike Trainer Stand

Overall Score: 8.6
Reviews Included: 5

7. Saris CycleOps Fluid2 Indoor Bike Trainer

Overall Score: 8.6
Reviews Included: 4

8. Gavin Indoor Exercise Bike Trainer Stand

Overall Score: 8.4
Reviews Included: 4

9. YAHEETECH Magnetic Bike Trainer Stand

Overall Score: 8.3
Reviews Included: 8

10. Kinetic Road Machine 2.0 Fluid Bike Trainer

Overall Score: 8.2
Reviews Included: 5

12. Cascade Fluidpro Bike Trainer

Overall Score: 7.9
Reviews Included: 5

13. Topeakmart Magnetic Turbo Indoor Bike Trainer Stand

Overall Score: 7.7
Reviews Included: 9

14. RAD Cycle Products Max Racer PRO Bike Trainer

Overall Score: 7.7
Reviews Included: 5

15. RAD Portable Magnetic Bike Trainer

Overall Score: 7.5
Reviews Included: 9

More to Explore

In 1817, a German baron named Karl von Drais invented something called the “draisienne,” which was essentially a two-wheeled horseless vehicle. To move forward, the rider moved his feet along the ground, making it essentially a bicycle as we know it today without pedals. His contraption was made from miniature carriage wheels attached to a wooden frame.

Pedals came along in 1839, when Kirkpatrick Macmillan added them to the hobby horse he made after seeing one on roadways. These pedals connected to rods, which moved cranks on the rear wheel. It was a much rougher version of the bicycle that we know today since the entire bike would have been quite heavy and therefore difficult to propel. But his invention put Macmillan on the history books as the official inventor of the bicycle.

More to explore