When you have a nice new bike, it’s always a good idea to keep the old bike for the trainer or bad weather days. This is Chandler White’s question; should he use his new carbon bike on the trainer or keep the old aluminum for the job?
Question:
I have purchased a new carbon fiber bike after riding my old aluminum bike for 10 years. The cycle shop owner suggested I keep my old bike and use it on a trainer in the winter. Are trainers hard on carbon fiber bikes and would this be a good idea. I would rather not have the bike sitting around but I definitely do not want to hurt the new bike. Old bike is not worth but 600.00 so not a money issue to keep it or to sell it.
Thanks
Chandler White.
Answer:
Hi Chandler,
Your cycle shop owner is correct, it is best to use your old bike on the trainer, not because using a carbon bike on a trainer is bad or any worse than using any bike of any material. You are going to sweat on the trainer, and that does not do the bike equipment any good, so the old aluminum bike is the best choice. The stresses of using a bike on a trainer are no worse to carbon, titanium, steel, or aluminum frame. It just doesn’t make sense to ruin your new carbon bike.
It’s best to keep your “best” bike for those nice days when the weather is good or when you are racing or riding an important event. It’s good to use the old bike on the trainer and in the bad weather as it isn’t so important, you could always fit mudguards and keep the good bike in the garage through the winter (if they are bad in your area) and then when it gets dryer and warmer; get the good bike out.
When you are using the trainer, cover the top of the bike with a towel or some other protection as sweat is very corrosive and will eat your bike. It’s always a good idea to keep your old bike as you never get much money for them unless you are lucky and you never know if you might have a problem with your other bike and need a replacement for some time. Good luck. Enjoy it.
