Suggestions on learning to use Rollers [duplicate]

Question

Last year I bought some Kreitler rollers and used them somewhat. The biggest problem I have is starting.

I have 4.5-Inch Kreitler Alloy Rollers with Killer Headwind Fan Drums.

Does anyone have a suggest on an easy way to start?

Answer 1

I had the same problem as you when I bought my rollers, the best advice is to place the rollers in a door frame. Start by holding onto the doorframe and get used to spinning with one hand on the bike.

You should always try to maintain a high cadence (and speed) when you first start, the momentum will help you balance. The plan is to pedal in a perfect circular motion, no pedal mashing! Focus is very important too, keep your body calm and try to focus into the distance to aid your balance.

Aside from that, it'll take a few weeks to get used to it. But once you have, the benefits of rollers are incredible, you'll notice it on rides out.

Good luck!

Answer 2

I bought a set of Cyclops rollers a few years back and it was scary to say the least when I started riding on them.

I too was trying the door-frame technique, but I felt it to be dangerous in case I fell and could not grab onto the door frame in time!

So I simply watched a few videos on YouTube and learned the best way was to start riding with the rollers next to a wall, with about 20cm gap between the edge of the rollers and the wall.

Next I placed the bike onto the rollers but leaned it downwards towards me, so I could saddle my left leg (assuming wall is on your left) over the bike. I then clipped on my left foot first and whilst holding the breaks firmly in place, I sat myself up and clipped on my right foot into the last pedal. At this point I am actually leaning against the wall slightly.

With my left hand on the wall, I started to pedal (yes, set the gears to low resistance before starting, so you pedal with high cadence).

This is the point of no return.

Let go of the wall! And do it sooner rather than later.

Quickly place your hands on the levers as you would normally and look over the front wheel.

You will naturally balance as you pedal.

After a while you'll get used to it and think, why were you so scared trying in the first place!

Some guys on YouTube can do amazing things with rollers, riding one foot, standing on seat, etc. I wouldn't dare!