At last month’s Interbike we saw a number of products that were designed to help riders train through the winter season. These trainers came in a many varieties including stationary bikes, rollers and the basic rear-wheel trainer. The latter category has plenty of basic devices, a few even seem quite similar, but one in particular caught our eye at the show – the Kinetic Rock and Roll by Kurt. At first glance this trainer resembles the basic rear-wheel configuration where the back end of the bike is attached by clamps while the rear wheel is allowed to spin freely, rolling against metal drum that is attached to a resistance device, but the Kinetic Rock and Roll has more to offer.
It is a simple device, and has the benefit of being easy to transport, easy to store and easy to set up. Unlike a stationary bike it is compact, and lets users actually ride their own bike. Rear-wheel trainers tend not to offer the road-like feel that rollers provide, but unlike rollers there is virtually no chance of riding off of a rear-wheel trainer. This style of trainer is good in that it allows riders to mount their own bike easily and has the resistance device that rollers often lack, but a rear-wheel trainer does not have the road-like feel of rollers (especially while out of the saddle) or allow the rider to have the opportunity to ‘train’ their bike handling skills while getting a workout.
For those who don’t want to feel like they’re riding in place but aren’t up to actual rollers the Kurt Kinetic Rock and Roll could be the game changer. Though the bike is still attached to the trainer, the Kinetic Rock and Roll has a unique design feature allowing the rider to enjoy a workout that is closer to the feel of actually riding on the road. It takes indoor riding places it’s never been – and provides a workout even rollers can’t offer.
The key is that the Rock and Roll lives up to its name. Instead of being a rigid frame that holds the bike upright, this system features a flexible spring that allows the entire trainer to rock back and forth, providing natural side-to-side motion. This lateral motion helps work core muscles to maintain balance – but truth is that rider can’t actually fall off, but the sensation is there and thus it simulates the same motion that one would experience on the road. This is most notable in out-of-the-saddle hill climb intervals.
We’ve only had the Rock and Roll for about a week, and our first impressions are that it sets up about as easily as any other trainer system. It has larger legs that other trainer systems, which are necessary for the stability of the system, but the legs are removable and this unique does break down for easy storage. There is also a lock-out feature for conventional use, while the clamp and lock quick release allows quick changing between bikes.
For those who don’t want to brave the winter, or for times when mother nature just won’t make it possible, the Kinetic Rock and Roll is a good substitute. Check back soon for a full review. With cooler weather on the horizon we know we’ll be thinking about bikes, sports drinks and the Rock and Roll.
Rock and Roll – Kinetic by Kurt Official Website
httpv://youtu.be/GQz_u0Vc8Os