Subject: Re: Rollers Posted by: Albert on December 16, 2003 at 00:17:43: In Reply to: Re: Rollers posted by Steve J on December 15, 2003 at 21:27:52:

Message: hey thx for the good info ! >>I'm wondering if anybody has experience using rollers. I'm thinking of buying one to do some indoor traing. >>Any suggestions or feedback you might be able to pass my way ? >>Cheers ! >>Albert >Rollers rule. >I bought mine nearly 20 years from Nashbar(then Bike Warehouse)and they have seen a lot of use. If you have never used rollers, just get a set for around $100. Check Craigs List and the catalogs. Also be sure to check your local shop. >To start out, some people use a doorway. I prefer to just set mine up next to a counter, maybe about 12 inches away. That way I have a place to set a water bottle, sweat rag, extra CDs,... You just want something you can sort of hold on to until you build up your speed. I also use a little step placed at the middle of the rollers as they add an extra 5-6 inches to the height of your top tube. Kinda hard to straddle it then. >Start out with low gears. Spinning is the name of the game. Make sure your tires are pumped up, and don't use your $50 racing tires as the roller surface can be pretty harsh on tires. >I placed two pieces of tape around the front roller. It gives you a "lane" to aim for. I also like to have a focal point on the floor or wall in front of me. It helps to raise your head and keep you centered. >All it takes is practice. Start out in private to minimize the embarasment. Most important, stop when you are tired. You will get squirrely and that is when falls happen.