Centrifugal Pressure Resistance (CPR) provides the most realistic simulation of riding a bicycle ever
CPR resistance technology outperforms fluid, magnet and wind trainers
Functional range for continuous operation from 4 watts (5 MPH) to over 3,000 watts (42 MPH), the widest range of resistance in the industry
Fluid free, NO LEAKS! CNC machined with less than .001 run-out
Six-inch diameter, six-pound all-aluminum flywheel (largest on any trainer) provides a smooth ride with 38 seconds of coast-down
Three-inch diameter all-aluminum roller (largest on any trainer) extends tire life and provides the quietest ride of any trainer
Foot operated Quick-Release allows you to load your bicycle in only 3 seconds
Telescoping front legs allows you to lower the rear tire to the floor for level riding, no riser block needed
Vertical height adjustment for any wheel size, even kids bikes
Beautiful deep blue and silver anodized light weight all-aluminum construction
Folds down to only 6 inches thick for compact storage
Submitted by
pgodman
a Cross Country Rider
from Calgary Date Reviewed: February 1, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Any trail is a good trail
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Direct
Bottom Line:
Great trainer. Have tried a few and this provides very good resistance. Solid construction. If you have to train indoors, this is a good trainer to do so with.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
BikeNclimb
a Weekend Warrior
from Maryland Date Reviewed: January 5, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Shaffer Farm
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
1upusa.com
Strengths:
Nice solid construction. Use aluminum for most part, but has steel for the heavy stress areas(bolts/axle cups). Fairly easy to set-up. Very quiet and smooth. More adjustments than most other trainers. Lifetime warranty!!!
Weaknesses:
Can be tricky to set-up initially (follow the directions). Changing the resistance may be difficult for some not mechanically inclined. Somewhat heavy (but not more than other trainers), and a little pricey.
Similar Products Used:
Demo'd a Performance Bike trainer.
Bike Setup:
Trek 2100 with compact crankset
Bottom Line:
I ride both on the trail and the road. I wanted a trainer since riding in the winter around here is less than stellar between the closed trails and crazy drivers. I did some research and decided on getting either the Kurt kinetic Road Machine, or the 1UpUSA CPR A-2000. The 60 day trial and lifetime warranty ultimately made my decision on the A-2000.
I must say I'm impressed with the construction. The base is very solid and wide. The CPR unit is quite ingenious. The plate that holds the clutch material is made of aluminum which helps to dissipate the heat. The bearings used are gigantic 1" sealed cartridges. The skewer included with the trainer is a low buck model, but does the job nicely with it's tapered ends. It's simply sounds engineering.
I tried the unit today for about half an hour, and found the experience unusual but not bad. having never used a trainer before I knew it wasn't going to feel exactly like a road ride. The unit is very quite, as my drive-train makes more noise than the trainer. However, I can still watch TV or listen to the radio without blasting the volume. Coasting from speed does last a good amount of time, and would be longer if I was using a heavier wheel/tire/tube combo. I will update my review after I put some more miles on it.
For those that are having issues with slipping tire on the unit here are my suggestions. Make sure your tire is a slick/road tire first (knobbies aren't for trainers, and they're make all kinds of noise). Follow the directions to load the bike into the trainer. Inflate your tire to 70-80% of your desired pressure. Contact the CPR unit against the tire as much as possible, and then inflate to the desired pressure. Another problem could be that the gear combination you're using is not high enough. Bump up to the next gear on the crankset. Trainers are designed for continuous use and not hole-shots. Gradually build speed to maximize the resistance.
Overall, this is a great product for the money. It's built to last and has a lifetime warranty. You also have 60 days to try it and if you don't like you can send it back for free. Not much to lose except maybe your time.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
highdesertrider
a Weekend Warrior
from Kfalls, OR, USA Date Reviewed: December 14, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Brown Mountain
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
1upUSA
Strengths:
Easy to use. It is a very well constructed [solid] and versatile design. Lifetime warranty. Very stable and gives me a great workout.
Weaknesses:
None, other than perhaps a lack of an exploded part diagram.
Similar Products Used:
NONE. I only had inexpensive stationary exercise bikes up to this point.
Bike Setup:
I use it with my wife's GT Timberline Mtn bike and the Primo Comet slick on the back [also purchased from 1up]
Bottom Line:
With all 6 ball bearings in, it provides enough resistance for a great workout. I think it should come set up that way, but it only took a few minutes to make the adjustment. I comes with its own wrench built in. It folds to a very small size [~6 in]. It is easy to get the bike in/out of the unit and it comes with a skewer. It is quiet enough to listen to the radio/tv while riding. The lifetime warranty is really a sign of a good company [i.e. one that stands behind its product]. I have read that they will honor the warranty. It is so well built, that it should be a long time [if ever] before I will have to call re a warranty issue. I am very happy I purchased this product! No reservations.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike D
a Weekend Warrior
from Cupertino, CA Date Reviewed: October 21, 2008
Favorite Trail:
USA
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$329.00
Purchased At:
www.1upusa.com
Strengths:
It's exceptionally well crafted and performs as advertised --- easy setup, very quiet, smooth and realistic feel.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
Cycleops
Bike Setup:
Scattante CFR Carbon Road (on the trainer) / Intense 5.5 (when I have the time to ride)
Bottom Line:
I bought this based on the mtbr reviews, my previous experience with Cycleops, and side-by-side feature comparison vs cycleops on the 1up website - many of the features compared are relevant for all trainers. Superior to the Cycleops in design, build, portability and feel. A little more expensive, but well worth it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Razman
a Cross Country Rider
from Sunnyvale Date Reviewed: May 2, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Demo Forrest
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$319.00
Purchased At:
1 up
Strengths:
beautifully crafted, Easy to setup, comes ready to use, folds down nicely, extremely smooth and quite.
Weaknesses:
i see none so far
Similar Products Used:
Cyle Ops fluid 2
Bike Setup:
06 Stumpy Comp with usual mods stem, bars ,post etc.
Bottom Line:
Dont waste your money on the Cycle ops fluid 2. it pales in comparison to the 1up. i could see the attention to detail in the 1up unit.its just flatout a superior trainer in every way and for the same cost the Cycleops unit seems like a ripoff.If i didnt get the 1up i would probably go with the Kurt next.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joshua Pemberton
a Weekend Warrior
from Provo, Utah, USA Date Reviewed: January 8, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Moab
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
1upusa website
Strengths:
Works with my 29er!!... with off road tires!(I was very happy about this) Quiet and adjustable.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Tried several different ones at the store(s)and neighbors.
Bike Setup:
Gary Fisher 29er and Cannondale Road bike
Bottom Line:
A neighbor had one of these so I compared the ones at the store with my neighbors and there was really no comparison. I went with the 1up. ALSO.......this trainer WORKS FINE with my 29er! I switch this trainer between 3 bikes....the wife's, my 29er and my road bike. You spend a little more but this trainer seems designed to last and provides good exercise when you cannot get outdoors or you are pressed for time to get a workout in.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rack-O-Lamb
a Cross Country Rider
from Oxford, OH Date Reviewed: January 6, 2008
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$275.00
Purchased At:
I Up USA website
Strengths:
Easy setup. Very solid. Smooth, natural feel in use. Quiet.
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
KHS roadbike now with a Continental Ultra Sport trainer tire
Bottom Line:
This is my first time using a trainer and I am very impressed with the natural feel of the 1up. I have used it now a dozen times from one half to one hour in duration. The manufacturer advertises a smooth quiet ride and I have found this to be true. Setup could not have been simpler, although, it did take a little playing around to optimize the setup. This was very easy to do, however. At first my tire would intermittently slip on the roller, even after tightening the contact pressure as much as I could without use of a tool. I also noticed that the tire would get very hot and left residue on the roller (partial melting). I read that some soft times have these two problems. After replacing it with a Continental Ultra Sport trainer tire both problems have cleared up. One caveat about the Continental Ultra Sport tire, it was quite difficult to get onto my rim. The guys at are local bike shop tell me that Continental tires are notorious for this. Another adjustment (minor though) which I found necessary was the pressure with which the axel cups contacted the skewer ends. At first there was a loud creaking when I rode. After increasing the force on the skewer ends the creaking stopped.
I read several reviews (I don’t recall where) that indicated a problem with the resistance of the 1up increasing substantially after continuous use for over 20 minutes. I do not know if this is an old problem that has now been fixed, but I have not experienced it with mine. So far I am very happy with the 1up USA trainer. I will post an update after I have logged some more miles.
Rack-O-lamb
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tim check
a Weekend Warrior
from buchanan tennessee Date Reviewed: December 17, 2007
Favorite Trail:
LBL Kentucky, Tunnel Hill Illinois
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
direct
Strengths:
quality machining, innovative, simple
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
all the others
Bike Setup:
I-F ti, planet cross, all campy
Bottom Line:
Don't waste your money on anything else. As a hobby machinist, this trainer is like something I would build. Total quality, all made in the USA.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael
a Cross Country Rider
from Hobbs, NM USA Date Reviewed: October 29, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
online-1up
Strengths:
Easy set up, quiet
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
2006 Specialized Rockhopper w/ 1.25 inch slick rear wheel
Bottom Line:
This trainer is great so far. Unfortunately work prohibits weekday rides this time of year. This trainer is great. I had another rear wheel setup with a 1.25 slick road tire and it is very quiet. This also helps on the weekends when I can get out to ride, I just change out the rear wheel and go. I made the purchase with a fair amount of trepidation, but I'm now glad that I bought it. Free shipping from 1UP helps. Their customer service is excellent, but their website is lacking.
The unit folds flat and is very portable. You don't need any wheel blocks for the front tire. I left my stock front wheel on and with the smaller slick tire on the rear, the bike is perfectly level. It is very easy to mount the bike or remove it from the trainer once it has been setup. It also adjusts for 24" and 20" tires. My kids can use it! It has plenty of resistance. I definitely recommend this trainer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
migmi
a
from Dallas, TX Date Reviewed: March 5, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
299
Strengths:
easy on and off with the bike, verticle height adjustment, strength, looks
Weaknesses:
non thus far
Similar Products Used:
cyclops fluid, cyclops mag, kurt trainer
Bike Setup:
Specialized M2 Pro, 26 x 1.5 slick, Amp Fork,
Bottom Line:
Used in an indoor cycling clinic enviroment and started with all 6 ball bearings in place. Next time I train I will only have 3 ball bearings installed. Smooth, quiet, Do not need to raise front wheel. Quality construction. I am very glad I purchased.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shake N-Bake
a Racer
from Charlotte, NC USA Date Reviewed: February 16, 2007
Favorite Trail:
The one I'm on
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Solid construction, adjustable legs, very stable and quite. This trainer is a 10 on a scale of 10. Quick setup, seems to be built more for setting up a road bike that a Mtn bike but a Mtn bike with a rear slick would work great. Stores relatively flat, easy to transport.
Weaknesses:
None, best trainer out there for simulating actual road training. I can't believe how many folks complain that it's noisy when training with knobby tires on it...duh! Name a trainer that isn't noisy with Mtn bike tires on it...wake up and discover slicks for training..Jeez
Similar Products Used:
Minoura Mag turbo, Kreitler rollers
Bike Setup:
Eddy Merckx AT Titanium, Campy Super Record/Chorus
Bottom Line:
When you scan through all the weaknesses listed on the reviews you will see some freaky things listed like "Noisy with knobby tires", "29er won't fit", "Expensive" (Didn't know that $$$ meant weakness), "High price, inability to change resistance while riding, mounting method, lack of marks on legs for adjustment, not sold in shops where buyers could try it out before purchase" (Ever try changing gears, Mounting method? It's the easiest I've ever seen?
Things like "Tends to wobble" are some serious "I don't know how to set my trainer up" issues, not the trainers fault folks.
Bottom line is that this trainer when set up properly with your bike will simulate riding on the road (no, you're not going to have wind in your face and dogs chasing you)with the resistance gradually increasing as you shift gears...not with some remote thingy with a cable to make you feel like you've gotten more for your money...I wouldn't sell mine for the amount I paid for it...that's the bottom line!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a
from Modesto, CA Date Reviewed: January 9, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
online direct from 1upUSA
Strengths:
Quality construction, easy set-up, easy to adjust resistance, good customer service via phone, lifetime warranty, 60 day money back guarantee, free shipping on warranty issues, folds down for compact storage, can use with any size wheel...
Weaknesses:
Doesn't offer enough resistance for me to get out of the saddle and "grind up hills", but I didn't expect it to...
Similar Products Used:
None...
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Bullit (with a rear slick) used on this trainer...
Bottom Line:
I'm 235 lbs. and have put intense 1-2 hour sessions on this trainer. I produce a lot of torque in my 3 highest gears and stay there for 1-2 hours every time I us it. This trainer works great! Very quiet with a slick (80-100 psi). I like it more than I thought I would and plan on using it 2-3 per week. Expensive, but the lifetime warranty should help you buy with confidence. THE BEST THING ABOUT THIS TRAINER FOR ME: I can log a lot of extra saddle time in the garage while I am watching my children play outside. I couldn't do that before I got this trainer!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gary Kennedy
a Cross Country Rider
from Australia Date Reviewed: December 30, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Oakey Hill
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
Solid construction. Easy setup. Stable. Easy storage. And that is all good.
Weaknesses:
None yet found. Perhaps the instructions could be a little clearer in describing the change of resistance.
Similar Products Used:
None.
Bike Setup:
Mountain bike. G3 Front and rear suspension. Disk Brakes. 27 gears. Works well with some noise from the mountain bike tyres (just put the head phones on and the TV on!) I think smooth tyres would be quieter, but it really is not a problem. I find that it is a realistic and great work out for when I want a some good exercise. I have GPS on the bike and a bike calculator mounted to the rear wheel. I find that for me the readings between the GPS when I am out and about are similar to the bike calculator readings (from the rear wheel) when I use the 1-up stationary. Very realistic!
Bottom Line:
For me a great buy even though I had to pay postage to Australia. To be able to go for a realistic ride on those horrible winter or wet days is just great. Best buy for a quite a while!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
don busby
a Weekend Warrior
from fairfieldglade, tn Date Reviewed: December 22, 2006
Favorite Trail:
lone mountain state park
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$279.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
very sturdy, great looks, realistic pedaling.
Weaknesses:
none yet
Similar Products Used:
na
Bike Setup:
pro flex 970
Bottom Line:
I saw a used one today on e-bay, wish I could have got that one, I paid 279 for mine, a little expensive but a high quality piece
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rob
a Racer
from Middletown, CT Date Reviewed: November 23, 2006
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
1up
Strengths:
Quality piece of hardware. Very reliable.
Weaknesses:
Bit of a pain to adjust for let's say a mtn bike to road configuration or vice versa.
Similar Products Used:
performance travel trac. Resistance unit kept dregrading with time and eventually broke, all within a few months.
Bottom Line:
Quality trainer and you won't be disappointed. I think the cyclops 2 may have an edge in terms of smoothness maybe with it's rubber roller. But I wouldn't fork over all that cash for a fluid unit again, due to possible reliability issues. I can't see the 1up failing with it's simple resistence unit design.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steven Seifert
a Weekend Warrior
from Omaha Date Reviewed: September 12, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Papio into the Keystone
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$279.00
Purchased At:
Direct from manufacturer
Strengths:
Very well-built. Everything is machined to very precise specs, everything works the way it's supposed to, and it's as tight and sturdy as the day I got it. It lets me stand on the pedals, do intervals, tempo rides and everything else. It's also quiet and clean. Feels like taking a real ride, minus the wind and the cars and the bugs in my teeth. Worth every penny.
Weaknesses:
It does tend to beat up on the rear tire a bit, as any trainer will. I keep an old spare tire and switch to it when I've got the bike indoors and on the trainer for any length of time. Also, this may or may not be a negative, and I hate to admit it, but even on some beautiful summer days, when I should be outside riding, I use the trainer instead because it's just so quick and convenient.
Similar Products Used:
I've tried other trainers, and they weren't bad (except for the fluid-based trainer that leaked on the rug), but they didn't give the same realistic ride resistance, weren't as quiet, weren't as well constructed, and didn't hold up over time.
Bike Setup:
I've used it with my road bike (Specialize Allez Epic) as well as a Bianchi Cross bike. Works fine with either one.
Bottom Line:
I'm writing this because I see a lot of reviews from people who bought the trainer a month or three ago. I'm glad they like it so far, but that doesn't really tell you the value of the thing. I bought the 1up trainer about three YEARS ago and it's one of the best investments in exercise equipment I've ever made. Also, down the page, I noticed a review by a guy who thinks a lot of these reviews may be written by company-types to hype the product. Well, I'm a real user and have no connection to the company whatsoever. Few products live up to their hype, but this is one of them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Weekend Warrior
from Springfield, IL, Sangamon Date Reviewed: June 3, 2006
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
Manufacturer's online store.
Strengths:
All metal, mostly aluminium. Well finished with no rough edges. Simple precision design.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Kinetic, Blackburn, tried in bicycle store.
Bike Setup:
Cannondale M-400 w 2" reverse image tires set to 70 psi. Tires have a solid ridge in center
Bottom Line:
Works even better than advertised. Anyone who wants to be able to spin when a ride isn't possible will enjoy this. Like using a good treadmill instead of running. Fully adjustable for any size bike, the settings lock and work the same even after remounting the bike. No kidding, set the bike in place, push a lever and go. Very solid feel, accelerating, cruising and coasting feel like the real thing minus the bumps. This stand doesn't look or feel like it will ever wear out.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
A B
a Weekend Warrior
from Maryville Date Reviewed: January 6, 2006
Favorite Trail:
most any single track far from civilization
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
vendor
Strengths:
This is my first trainer but I like it. Simple design, well made. I thought I'd like to have a remote to change the resistance but this is a superior design. You just shift gears to make it harder. I am getting some slipage when I really crank down, this lessened when I let some air out of the tires and pressed it harder against the flywheel. Customer service said I need to buy a cheap harder compound tire to make it stick better. I try that and check back in with you. For now, it doesn't bother me because I can get a good workout without going full out.
Weaknesses:
Expensive. Instructions where good but they don't match the pictures. The product is pretty simple to get ready. No assembly required.
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz that I haven't used on it, Giant TCR that is currently being used on it.
Bottom Line:
Looks cool, works well. Definitely solid and compact.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a Weekend Warrior
from Boston, MA Date Reviewed: December 6, 2005
Favorite Trail:
anywhere in Oregon
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Strengths:
it's a great trainer so far, though I tightened the skewer on too loosely and chipped the paint on the dropouts of my brand new Lemond :(
Weaknesses:
I have to say...I am a little suspicious of these reviews. Notice that all the reviewers tend to misspell "quiet" as "quite." Either 1up gets some bad spellers as customers, or one person is pumping up the product.
Bottom Line:
Very good trainer so far but I wish these reviews were more true.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill
a Cross Country Rider
from Rochester Hills, MI Date Reviewed: October 14, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Internet
Strengths:
Well made, absolutely quiet with a road bike, plenty of resistance. It comes fully assembled. Easily transported and folds up small for easy convenient storage
Weaknesses:
None, for those who say it squeaks, read the instructions--if it does squeak it is operator error.
Similar Products Used:
Various wind machines
Bike Setup:
Specialized Roubait and Giant Trance 2
Bottom Line:
This may be the easiest piece of equipment I have purchased when it comes to set up. Extremely well made. For most it will have far more resistance than anyone can use. You get what you pay for. This is worth every dollar.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Indianapolis, IN Date Reviewed: October 14, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
1upusa.com
Strengths:
Quality, ease of use, performance
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
wind, fluid
Bottom Line:
This is absolutely the best trainer I've ever seen or used. I've put 600 miles on it in 3 weeks and love it. Easy to set up, resistance is good and this thing is so quite all I can hear is my drivetrain. So, but it and you won't be disappointed. And let me debunk some myths that have been mentioned in other reviews...
1. It is quite - tire squeek is the result of the roller not contacting the tire firmly enough. Simply adjust this so it's tighter and the squeek will go away. The instructions are specific about this, so read them and you'll not have this problem.
2. It is quite - use slicks, not your regular mtb tires as they will definitely cause noise (duh!).
3. It is extremely stable and does not 'flex' when you get on your bike. I'm 220lbs and it does not sag when I sit on my bike. I was able to adjust the legs so my rear tire is approximately 1/4inch off the floor and when I get on the bike it doesn't move a bit and the tire does not rub when I ride. No need for a front tire block at all. Carpet will require a higher setting and the instructions note this - so if you're experiencing the 'sag' mentioned in other reviews I'm assuming it's not on a hard surface - and you can't blame the trainer for the carpet compressing under weight!
4. The resistance is realistic and there is MUCH more resistance available than any other trainer. In fact, you can get twice the resistance out of this unit than any other similarly priced one. Follow the simple instructions for increasing the resistance - and remember that your using a mtb on this thing so aren't going to be able to peddle 35mph and max out. Again, you can't fault the trainer for the shortcomings of the bike you're using.
Thanks for reading and buy this thing. There is no reason why it shouldn't get 5 chilis from everyone. When compared to other trainers it's the best. When compared to a real ride, it's as good as you're ever going to get, it's a trainer after all...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Craig
a
from Troy, MI, USA Date Reviewed: August 25, 2005
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
manufacture's online store
Strengths:
Solid, sturdy, easy to use and set up. folds out of the way.
Weaknesses:
I'm not sure if all trainers do this, because this is the first one I've used, but when I get going the tires make a whinning noise that can get annoying.
Bike Setup:
Stock 2000 Specialized Rockhopper A1 Comp FS. With road tires.
Bottom Line:
I love the machine. Even with the noise it's a great workout. I can really kill myself on this with a workout that really rivals any of the long runs I've done. I just wish there was some why to reduce the noise between the tires and pully.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tony
a Weekend Warrior
from the all too flat Midwest Date Reviewed: May 21, 2005
Favorite Trail:
anywhere in CO west of Denver
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
manuf.
Strengths:
Excellent build quality, easy setup, easy to change resistance, fairly quiet. Was weary ordering without ever trying out first.
Weaknesses:
None for me.
Similar Products Used:
demo'ed several in various bike shops
Bike Setup:
Jamis Dakar Pro w/various mods
Bottom Line:
Some say expensive, but well worth it if you're after a quality product in my opinion.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Homer
a Cross Country Rider
from Camarillo, CA, USA Date Reviewed: February 16, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
Manufacturer
Strengths:
built very well
Weaknesses:
None. I did have to change the ball bearings position to increase the resistance. Worked very well after that!
Bike Setup:
Litespeed Niota AL for mountain Specialized Allez for road
Bottom Line:
Built extremely well. Product was delivered quickly and packaged well.The trainer works great and is very quiet.It took me less than five minutes to change the ball bearing settings to increase the tension. You don't need a front tire support with this trainer because it sets so low to the ground! I did raise mine up a bit and have been using a front wheel support only to keep the front wheel and bars firm. I shopped a lot before buying. This is really a great product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Becky Starkweather
a Cross Country Rider
from SLC, UT, USA Date Reviewed: January 30, 2005
Favorite Trail:
slick rock
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
direct via internet
Strengths:
easy setup quiet and easy to carry. Brought one to a friend on an island in suitcase and I use one to crosstrain with when weather sux
Weaknesses:
none
Bike Setup:
trek 2300, gary fisher, old cannondale
Bottom Line:
best value for money afetr reseraching several
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Luke
a
from Toronto, Ont, Canada Date Reviewed: May 7, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
300
Bottom Line:
1UP_Trainer_Review.txt
Well after 800 km and 3+ weeks on the 1up I thought I'd weigh in with a review.
This is my first trainer and consequently, my first experience riding extensively on trainers. Please bear that in mind when considering the following points.
My vitals are: 175 lbs, 5 foot 11 and my cycling habits can be best described as road rider, commuter and credit card tourer. Riding bicycles is my primary source of fitness and I wanted the trainer to augment my fitness regimen in inclement weather.
The trainer arrived a week after ordered via 1up website. For those Canucks who balk at UPS's usurious brokerage fees, the option of shipping the trainer via USPS limits the damage to the bank account. Nice touch.
My first impression was - and is - that the 1up is well built and uncompromising in it's choice of materials and design. A work of art? No. Rather, a fine work of craftsmanship. The theory behind the CPR unit in particular is ingenious. So simple and elegant, the nature of the design implies durability. The telescopic adjusters on the trainer's front legs improves stability when using the trainer on uneven floors.
Setting up the trainer was easy, even for someone like me, with limited mechanical aptitude. The instructions are simple and so is the procedure. My bicycle was installed on the 1UP 15 minutes after the trainer was removed from the box. Thougthful of 1UP to include a steel QR. Also, the 1UP trainer easily accepts rear axles fastened by bolts. (Sometimes use the 1UP with a fixie)
Riding on a trainer is an odd experience for the uninitiated. It initially seems unnatural and to a large extent, it still does. For those who intend to buy a trainer with the assumption that it mimic the reality of riding a bicycle, this is a mistake. As the name indicates, buy it with the purpose of conditioning yourself for - not replacing - the real thing. Nothing beats that.
As far my personal expectations of the 1UP; All were adequately met and/or surpassed. Noise level: quiet with slicks *Please see NOTE*, Ease of use: No problems there, Portability: Trainer folds up and stores easily and Adjustability: Satisfactory. Although, I rode several hundred K with the balls moved to the CPR's outer chambers - this increases the resistance curve, I found the out of the box resistance setup to be more suitable (3 ball bearings in the inner chamber) and Price: Again adequate. I consider the price fair if the trainer functions for several years without complications. And, given the 1UP's quality of construction and design, I expect it should.
NOTE: There was an oddity I sporadically encountered when riding on the 1UP. Usually it would occur after approximately a half hour or use, after the CPR unit had warmed up. Every 10 or 15 minutes, the resistance would noticeably increase for short periods of time - 45 seconds tops - accompanied by a high pitched hiss. It was driving me bonkers. I finally traced it to grease (possibly leaching out of) from the cartridge bearing from the platter that rides directly against the CPR's friction pad. I suppose once the CPR unit had warmed up, the viscosity of the excess grease around the cartridge bearing would decrease and the centrifugal force of the spinning platter would force the grease between the friction pad and spinning platter. There it would eventually burn/evaporate off, but not before emitting the annoying hiss and increasing my heart rate by placing an imaginary hill in my way. I wiped the surplus grease from the exterior of the bearing cartridge and the problem was solved. But the aggravation was in tracing the problem not in solving it. 1UP should be more attentive when assembling the trainer.
In conclusion: I'm happy with the 1UP. It's a great product and I'd buy it again. 1 star withheld for the irritation caused by the wayward grease.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from Ocala,FL, USA Date Reviewed: March 18, 2004
Favorite Trail:
santos trail;cross florida greenways
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
company website
Strengths:
superb craftsmanship heavy duty quiet best trainer for simulating progressive road bike riding
Weaknesses:
not that quiet make sure use their quick release and it is tight
Similar Products Used:
wind trainers rollers, various
Bike Setup:
1989 Miyata Titanium 6000; overalled with Look carbon fiber stem, HSC fork, seatpost; Easton carbon bars; full Ultegra; New design Cane Creek Wheels, Conti tires.
Bottom Line:
Wonderful trainer, overall performance is excellent over a variety of regimens. Can take the steady cruise, or the stand up and pound workout. Is a piece of art to boot, with the CNC aluminum pieces, etc. Have not found any trainer that is "silent", but this one is relatively quiet, even compared with the magnets and fluids. Has a true progressive feel when increase speed and effort on the bike. Now that I have had the trainer for a while, the price does not seem to be too high.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam
a Weekend Warrior
from Jackson, MS USA Date Reviewed: February 24, 2004
Favorite Trail:
forest hills
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
wife bought online for christmas for me
Strengths:
Pretty easy setup once dialed in for you and your bike. Fairly light and folds well for storage. Fairly quiet when used with slicks. Decent aerobic workout.
Weaknesses:
Not really enough resistance possible for me, even with the spring removed, and the extra set of bearings. Also, the advertise it as not neading anything under the front wheel because you are able to lower your back wheel to just above the floor. In theory this sounds good, but doesn't really work for me. I'm a fairly heavy fella and when I get on the bike, the flex in the trainer is enough that the rear wheel sinks toward the floor some. Unless I have it adjusted at least an inch or so above the floor, the tire rubs when I ride. Without a block of wood under the front wheel, I feel like the whole bike is leaning forward a bit. This isn't that big a deal I don't guess.
Similar Products Used:
None...just have riding in the real outdoors to compare it to.
Bike Setup:
Old Giant ATX 860 mountain bike frame with acera cranks, 7 speed drivetrain and skinny slick tires at 85 PSI. This bike is my dedicated commuter and trainer bike.
Bottom Line:
Overall, I don't have any experience with other trainers to compare this one to, but I guess it's pretty decent.
I'd like to be able to get more resistance. They advertise it as having all the resistance you need and being just like riding on the road, but for a clydesdale like me that's not really the case. I tend to be more of a "masher" than a "spinner" and like to get out of the saddle when sprinting or climbing hills and really hammer the peddles hard in a high gear. I can't really do that with this trainer. Even in the highest gear on the bike if I stand on the pedals, there is nowhere near enough resistance to bear my weight.
Imagine if you were going downhill at speed and switched to your lowest gear and then tried to stand up and hammer the pedals. That is about what this trainer feels like when I try to stand and pedal, even in the highest gear.
Before you ask, yes I have done all the adjuestments possible to the trainer to increase the resistanc...i.e. removed the spring, added more bearings for a total of six, and yes this did make some difference in the resistance, but nowhere near enough for me.
As a result, when I'm on the trainer for an hour or so, I end up spending almost all my time sitting (which I don't do on the bike outdoors) and experience a lot of discomfort in my butt and numbness in those parts a man never wants to go numb.
When it becomes unbearable I am forced to either get out of the saddle and stop riding for few minutes (which sort of kills the workout a little) to let things settle down, or try put as much of my weight as possible on the handlebars so I can "spin" the pedals some while out of the saddle. This is pretty damn awkward to say the least.
Maybe this would be less of a problem with a road bike with higher gearing...I don't know.
In any case, I'd like to be able to get a LOT more resistance. I've thought about trying to obtain this by applying the rear brake a little when standing, but I'm scared to try this. The instructions with the trainer stongly say DON'T APPLY THE BRAKE AT ALL because it can damage the trainer.
That said, for general aerobic workout type pedaling, where you are just trying to elevate the heart rate for an extended period of time, the resistance is more than adequate.
I only have a couple other complaints. The first is the one I addressed above in weaknesses about the rear wheel needing to be adjusted with more than advertised floor clearance due to flex in the trainer. Not that big a deal really.
Second, it would be nice if the trainer was available at LBS's so folks could try it out and compare directly with other trainers.
Finally, the price. Wow!! It's pretty pricey compared to a lot of others out there. Maybe it's worth the extra cash, I don't know. Again, I haven't ridden any other trainers to compare it to. Maybe I'm just cheap. Anyway, 300 bucks is 300 bucks. That's a lot of dough.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ed Van Dood
a Weekend Warrior
from Bohemia, N.Y Date Reviewed: February 21, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Cathedral Pines
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
ONLINE
Strengths:
Excellent Materials, Not over engineered,simple to use.
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
2003 Stock Cannondale F600
Bottom Line:
First thing service was great. I ordered Monday and the Unit came Ground for Free by the weekend. As soon as I opened the box I could tell that the materials were first class. I am not much of a directions guy, and I was still able to setup my bike in less than 10 minutes. Being 6' 2' and over 230 I will probably increase the resistance, but it is fine for now. I also will put slicks on my bike to reduce the noise, but it is not that bad with the knobbies on.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Demonic1
a Cross Country Rider
from Wisconsin Date Reviewed: February 19, 2004
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
bought it direct
Strengths:
quiet, adjustable resistance for a big guy like me, outstanding warranty
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
fluids and magnetics
Bike Setup:
trainer bike - Klein attitude w/ slicks.
Bottom Line:
I had my first warranty issuse with this trainer a couple weeks ago. I melted the adheasive that holds onto the felt friction plate so that it wasn't centered and caused the resistance unit to wear oddly. Keep in mind this trainer is over 3 years old and this is the first issue I've had with it. I emiled 1up with a description and a picture of the problem and they sent a free return label for UPS shipping which I got on Thursday. I got it back 5 days later (Teusday) and they had replaced the resistance unit and they had updated the trainer w/ all the new features. The resistance unit stuck out the most to me because it doesn't get nearly as hot anymore with the machined cooling slots taking out most of the heat. Also the foldable legs are now mounted much closer together which makes the trainer and the bike a lot stiffer because the cups for the quick release don't have to be screwed out as far. I thought my old version of the trainer was good, but the fixes they made are outstanding and it didn't cost me a thing. Great service.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lee King
a Cross Country Rider
from Atlanta, GA Date Reviewed: February 9, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Blanket's Creek
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
1UpUSA.com
Strengths:
Low noise level, low to the ground, made in the USA, variable resistance, large roller surface, heavy flywheel, long coast-down, no fluid to leak, lifetime guarantee, free shipping, smaller than other trainers when collapsed for travel
Weaknesses:
High price, inability to change resistance while riding, mounting method, lack of marks on legs for adjustment, not sold in shops where buyers could try it out before purchase
Similar Products Used:
Cyclops fluid2
Bike Setup:
Specialized Rock Hopper modified for training, brakes removed, slick rear tire, riser handlebar, speed/distance/time and cadence sensors
Bottom Line:
I've been cycling for over thirty years, but started cycling for fitness about seven years ago. I was invited to join a racing team last year and decided to get more serious about my training. I hate to ride in weather below sixty degrees, so getting an indoor trainer to continue my training during the winter just made sense.
I ordered the trainer on a Saturday and received it on Friday. I consider that fast shipping. It was a little difficult to initially set up due to the difficult mounting operation. The foot release system sounds good, but it is hard to get used to. I preferred the mounting method of the Cycleops trainer I tested in my LBS.
I modified an old mountain bike to use solely on the trainer so I wouldn't have to lug my racing bike downstairs every time I wanted to train. I left the old knobby tires on the bike and the trainer worked great, although the noise level was pretty high. I used the trainer for a couple months with some Spinerval training videos and felt I was getting great workouts.
I purchased an MTB slick tire and the noise level was drastically reduced. I really can't hear the trainer over the noise of my drivetrain. After installing the slick tire, though, I noticed a change in resistance. I followed the instructions to modify the resistance of the unit and didn't feel any difference. I thought it might be caused by lube spray because I lubed my chain when I installed the slick tire. Cleaning the unit and my tire didn't help. I called 1Up technical support and the guy I talked to was very nice. He suggested the lack of resistance was caused by slippage. I told him I couldn't hear any slipping and didn't really feel it. I told him I pumped the tire to maximum pressure, per the trainer instructions. He suggested that I use some degreaser on the tire and the unit and call back if that didn't work. I noticed when remounting the bike that I couldn't really get a lot of leverage when tightening the adjusting knob of the trainer. The knobby tire I used before had a maximum pressure of 60 pounds and I could feel the tire give when I tightened the adjusting knob. The slick tire had a maximum of 80 pounds and I couldn't feel the tire give at all. I noticed that the knob wasn't really helping to tighten the unit and that after tightening the knob as much as I could, there was still some play in the unit. Maybe I messed up the trainer somehow, but it wouldn't tighten much. I tried moving the axel cups down a couple of inches, since the slick tire has a lower profile than the knobbies. That didn't help much, so I lowered the pressure in the tire, tightened the adjustment knob as much as I could, and refilled the tire to maximum pressure. I could visually see the tension on the tire. That did the trick. I immediately noticed a change in resistance. I used the trainer a couple of days later and noticed a bump in the tire, probably where the tension had been pushing on it. The bump disappeared after the tire warmed up, though. I may take some air out of the tire, loosen the tire tension slightly and pump it back up to avoid the bump in the future. I wish it was easier to fine-tune the adjustment of the trainer, though. The knob has some little ridges on the outer edge, but it would be better if it was more of a star shape so I could really get some leverage to crank the roller against the tire.
Besides that, though, I love the trainer. It is super quiet and with a front fat tire and a riser handlebar and stem I don't even need to put anything under the front tire to level it out. It took me a couple of weeks to replace my flat pedals with clipless and I highly recommend going clipless to get a good workout. I don't notice any flex in the trainer under hard load, but I'm only 160 pounds. I've recommended this trainer to all of my riding partners.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Weekend Warrior
from Chicago Date Reviewed: January 26, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
Direct from Manuf.
Strengths:
Simple, stable, plenty of resistance, and beautiful craftmanship.
Weaknesses:
None so far...
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Klein Adroit Pro, Race Face, Mavic, Proshift, etc...
Bottom Line:
I researched just about every trainer out there and test as many as I could...this is the best out there in my opinion. It is tempting to spend alot less, but remember the $299, includes shipping to your door (mine came in one day). I have just begun to tap the full potential of this thing. The resistance curve is smooth and it really feels like true riding. Set-up took just a few minutes...longer than they stated, but that was of my doing with having very small slicks on my 26" rims. I would definitely suggest riding with a complete slick; city tires do produce some noise. So, I picked some really cheap totally bald slicks and now all you hear is the sound of the bike's drive train. I was a bit nervous about training inside, but the 1-up makes it great.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael Twomey
a Cross Country Rider
from State College, PA Date Reviewed: January 24, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Tussey
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
X-Mas Gift / www.1upusa.com
Strengths:
Quality made and easy setup. Good instructions. Excellent customer service. Gets me off the couch on bad weather days.
Weaknesses:
None so far!
Similar Products Used:
Tested many in bike store.
Bike Setup:
GT I-Drive 1.0 with Spinergy wheels, Avid Juicy Seven Disc Brakes, Sram XO, XTR and Lp Composites Bar and Post.
Bottom Line:
Smooth stable ride. Will use this for bad weather days. Easy to use, takes about 5 seconds to install bike after initial setup. Good for all fitness levels due to ability to change resistance curve. I use it with the Spinervals 9.0 No Mercy spin DVD.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shorty
a Cross Country Rider
from P-town Oregon Date Reviewed: November 2, 2003
Favorite Trail:
i can't tell you that
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
one up USA
Strengths:
great craftmanship, truly good alluminum, large roller, looks like it will last forever. relativly silent, strong resistance, very little coast
Weaknesses:
does not feel like a real road, not as fluid as I expected, but since this is the only trainer I have put much time on it is hard for me to say. But this trainer will make you pedal smoothly, you have to, I think it actually helped by pedaling technique.
Similar Products Used:
cheaper stuff for 20 min each time, not fun
Bike Setup:
97 Cannondale Cad 3 on heavy ass wheels (alex r 390's)
Bottom Line:
worth 300, worth your time, remember it't the rider not the trainer or the bike that makes you better than the next guy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Racer
from NY, NY, USA Date Reviewed: October 27, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Central Park
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
1up USA
Strengths:
Very road-like resistance, very very quiet, all aluminum, large diameter roller, comes fully assembled, adjusts for any bike size, folds very thin and on and on…
Weaknesses:
I am a bike shop owner and this trainer is not sold to dealers! Makes the other trainers I sell look cheap.
Similar Products Used:
I sell a full line of trainers and fitness equipment.
Bike Setup:
Several bikes in store.
Bottom Line:
As a dealer I sell a ton of trainers and fitness equipment. A customer came in looking for a 1up trainer that he saw on-line. I said I would get one for him and called the company. To my surprise they sell retail only! I told them they should sell to dealers. They said there manufacturing cost is to high to allow for dealers. I wanted to see this trainer for myself so I ordered one (full retail price). It came fully assembled, a first in trainers. I had a bike on it in a few seconds and gave it quick test. Best trainer ride in the shop hands down. I use it as a bike demonstrator because I can level the bike; it loads fast and is quiet. I sold the first one for $419 and ordered 2 more. The 1up trainer looks like a $500 trainer. I know trainers and if you want the best trainer out there get this one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric B
a Racer
from San Diego Date Reviewed: October 26, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
mail order
Strengths:
Light.Great looking. Compact. Plenty of resistance for strengh training, especially in larger gears (53x19+).
Weaknesses:
Initial set up not as easy as claimed, unrealistic road feel-not a smooth stroke,resistance was too strong at faster speeds (I tested with a Power Meter to verify).
Similar Products Used:
Performance Fluid, CycleOps, and older various fan units.
Bike Setup:
Lemond Chambery
Bottom Line:
First off I'm a roadie. I posted a review on the sister road bike review site earlier today, so I'm not going to regurgitate my full review. Doug from Canada hit the nail on the head. Not only did I feel the resistance failed to simulate the feel of the road, but it was hard to keep my cadence consistant; not the smooth stroke you get from a fluid trainer. I tried every adjustment I could think of. Bearings inside, bearings outside, I fiddled with tire pressure. Nothing seemed to work. I can't recommend this purchase. The more I think about it the less I'm happy with this trainer. Maybe I got a defective unit, or maybe there is something "funny" going on with all these fabulous reviews. Hopefully the customer service is as great as everyone would have you believe, as my unit will be making its way back to Wisconson. The product does have some positives,and would be fine for climbing/power workouts, but at this price it has to go back.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tryin2B
a Racer
from Highland Village, TX Date Reviewed: October 22, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Isle du Bois @ Ray Roberts
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$270.00
Purchased At:
1UP website
Strengths:
Everything about the trainer is a strength. The color. The compact way it folds up. Its stability even under heavy interval loads. Its portability. The finish. Its ease of use when changing bikes that are completely different. The free shipping.
Weaknesses:
Does it really have any?
Similar Products Used:
An old Perfomrance Mag trainer. Absolutely no comparison.
Bike Setup:
Ventana Pantera Full XT w/Romic Coil over, Fox Vanilla Fork, Mavic 519 wheels.
Bottom Line:
This trainer has allowed me to do several things at once. Increase my fitness level for racing. Decrease the amount of time I travel to ride because I can do my intervals in the garage (which really makes the wife happy). Work my riding in around family activities.
I have well over 700 miles of interval training on this trainer since April. Most of it coming in July and August. I place my old road bike on the trainer for interval training. Nice set-up. When I travel to races it is so easy to transport and then set-up for my mtb. Just a few adjustments that take less than 3 minutes and I'm ready to warm-up for the race.
Utilizing this trainer has also allowed me to be very consistent in establishing and monitoring my power while training because of its design. The wattage charts on the website are very helpful as well. BTW, I use the Cateye Astrale computer to monitor rear wheel speed.
As for customer service, the folks at 1UP are quick to respond. They provided me the 10% discount on my purchase when they sent me a coupon because I entered one of the product giveaways at MTBR.com. I had already purchased the trainer and then 2 weeks later I received the coupon. They refunded my 10%! They will even provide discounts on multiple product purchases.
I think I'll be looking strongly at the 1UP bike rack next!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Leinard
a Cross Country Rider
from Phoenix, AZ, USA Date Reviewed: October 9, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Anyone
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
1upusa.com
Strengths:
Feels most like the road. Quiet. Easy to mount bikes. Very stable.
Weaknesses:
Only comes in one color. (LOL)
Similar Products Used:
Cyclops Fluid 2
Bike Setup:
Trek 1200 Road Bike
Bottom Line:
I bought a rack from 1up and after my Cycleops exploded I went looking for fluidless trainers. I noticed that 1up makes trainers as well and purchased one. This trainer is unbelieveable!! It's a 100 times better than the Cycleops Fluid 2. It is rock solid and no doubt one of the quietest trainers on the market. The resistance is very roadlike and there is plenty of resistance for getting out of the saddle and hammering! I read the reviews and Doug from Canada sounds like a Cycleops Salesman! My Cycleops sprung a leak while training and oil flew all over my floor, wall, ceiling and up my back! My wife barred me from training indoors (and made me repaint the wall and ceiling). While she was screaming at me, I threw the trainer in the dumpster behind our apartment complex. I hope it won't create some environmental hazard at the dump! I went looking for a trainer without fluid and the 1up Trainer is perfect!! I would highly recommend this trainer and avoid the fluid trainers as they could be considered grounds for divorce.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
PostHocFallacy
a Weekend Warrior
from Broomfield, CO Date Reviewed: October 4, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Walker Ranch
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
1UP
Strengths:
Very well machined, precision assembly. Don't need a block under the front wheel (unless you want to simulate up-hill). Adjustable resistance. Will never leak and my guess is it will never wear out.
Weaknesses:
Wrench that is included doesn't go with this precision product and the bike mounting procedure is not as simple as they claim.
Similar Products Used:
Performance 3000 fluid, CycleOps "new" version with fan built into flywheel, and older CycleOps with plain flywheel.
Bike Setup:
1998 Litespeed Appalachian Titanium cross bike, XTR shifters/derailleurs front and rear, Avid Shorty 6 brakes, Race Face Crank, Truvative BB, Woundup carbon fork, Hugi front hub, Chris King rear hub on Mavic Open Pro wheels. Also 1997 Gary Fisher HooKooEKoo, stock. (Who named that bike, anyway?)
Bottom Line:
A rating of 4 chilis is too low for this excellent product. I would like to give it a 4.8, but can't so I am giving it a 5. I would like to give it a 4.8 because of the phony aluminum wrench that they include with it to adjust the spacing at initial setup (knocks it down to 4.9), and the "one-hand" install that they boast about is not that simple (knocks it down to 4.8). When I used my own wrenches (I used two even though they say you don't need to!) it adjusted perfectly and is easy to adjust between the two bikes that I use on the trainer. I like the fact that they include a skewer, especially since the ones on my GF are Salsa brand and have edges that don't fit very well into trainer sockets. I don't change bikes very often, but it is an easy adjustment when I do. And, mounting the bike, while not as easy as they say, is still easier than the other trainers that I have used. The 1UP is "rock solid and whisper quiet" to use the obvious cliches. Doug from Canada must not have had his adjusted properly. Mine has never wobbled or changed pedaling in the saddle or out. I'm 220 lb, and really get that titanium twisting out of the saddle, on the road or on the trainer (the trainer is not the source of the flex). When I first got the trainer, I tried all four possibilities for resistance (inside and outside sockets for the three bearing balls, and spring or no spring) just to see what they were like. The highest resistance takes more of a man than I to pedal it in all but the lowest gears. To figure out which setting I needed, I went to a relatively flat (my Polar 710 recording heart rate monitor claims there is 25 feet of elevation gain in the middle compared to each end) 1.5 mile stretch of road near my house. I warmed up for about 20 minutes, picked a gear that was comfortable (36/15) and rode back and forth 10 times at steady 90 cadence. I did this two different mornings early when the wind was not noticable and averaged heart rate for the whole time. Then, when I got on the trainer, I warmed up again and changed the spring and bearing balls until I got close to the same heart rate in the same gear and cadence. It turns out that balls in the inner sockets and no spring is within 3 beats per minute on the HRMonitor of what I got on the "flat" road. If I want a "climbing" workout. I move the bearing balls to the outside sockets and install the spring. Takes about 3 minutes. (I haven't calibrated the resistance to a percent grade yet.) Last winter (2002) from November 30th to December 31st,I rode 400 miles on the trainer. It feels so realistic. I put on some tunes and spin for two hours sometimes. I first saw the 1UP on ebay and noticed the seller was 1UP. I called them and asked if they were the people selling on ebay. They were. It is just another place to get some exposure for them. I ordered it over the phone instead of going through ebay. Free shipping. I love it. The other trainer I used for an extended period (nearly a year) was a used Performance 3000 trainer that I bought at a swap meet. I don't know how old it was and don't know how it was treated previously. I have always had good luck with Performance products and have been a Performance Member since 1999. After a couple months of every-other-day usage, it leaked on my rug in the basement (nothing serious, since the basement is not finished and the rug was a remnant). I bought some shock oil, replaced the o-rings in it from the stock at Home Depot and rode it for another 9 months before giving it to my son. The little o-ring in the end under the fill screw was the problem, but I replaced both. He is still riding it. I might add that you can change the resistance in the fluid units by changing to heavier or lighter fluid (I used 7.5 weight). I borrowed a CycleOps from a friend for two weeks before I before I bought the 1UP. It was a "newer" version with the fan built into the flywheel. It drove me crazy with the fan noise. The older models CycleOps didn't have a fan on the flywheel (I tried one at the LBS that they have had for many years and use for bike fit). The old one wasn't nearly as noisy as the "new, improved" CycleOps. You can have my 1UP when you pry it from my cold dead fingers.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Doug
a Weekend Warrior
from Calgary Alberta Date Reviewed: October 4, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Powderface trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
Mail Order
Strengths:
Nice design, liked the adjustable legs and homemade look and feel
Weaknesses:
Resistance is not lifelike--it's more like pedal hard/pedal easy. Unit has much more frameflex than Fluid2 when I stand on the pedals. It gives off more noise than Fluid2. The bike attachment seems over engineered and is NOT the easy setup as advertised.
Similar Products Used:
Cyclops Fluid2, Tacx Flow
Bike Setup:
Rocky Mountain Rail
Bottom Line:
After reading the hype from the website I was convinced this was the best trainer in the world--heavy flywheel, large drum, sturdy design etc. I ordered one. I also went to my LBS and bought the Fluid2 with the understanding that I could return it when I got the superior designed 1UP and showed them how good it was. I used the Fluid2 for 2 weeks waiting for the 1UP.
On receiving the 1UP, I was surprised it made more noise than the Fluid2. The worst part though was the hype about the heavy flywheel and largest drum did not turn out to help the smoothness of the pedaling feel of the 1UP. The Fluid2 was 100% better in the smoothness of pedal stroke. The 1UP--I cleaned the leaking roller bearings; cleaned the flywheel surfaces and steel balls; moved the balls to the outside holes but nothing helped)--had a pedal hard/pedal easy feel to its stroke. Although the spindown time is longer, one could never spin on the 1UP like the Fluid2.
I noticed the frame flex to be much greater on the 1UP. When I stood up on the pedals and pushed the 1UP hard the rear stays showed more flex than on the Fluid2.
I spoke with 1UP and they have offered to pay the return shipping from Canada. I was told that the Fluid they based their test on was an older model. They seemed interested to see the unit when they get it back.
I will post anything I find out from 1UP, but from my experience I cannot recommend the 1UP
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Blue As A Jewel
a Weekend Warrior
from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada Date Reviewed: September 18, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
www.1upusa.com
Strengths:
Extremely well engineered and built. Smooth, smooth, smooth!LIFETIME WARRANTY
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Stock Gary Fisher Hoo Koo E Koo
Bottom Line:
You absolutley cannot go wrong purchasing this unit. From the moment I ordered it has been a quality experience. 1UP was more than accomodating in shipping the unit to Canada using USPS instead of UPS or similar - thereby avoiding their disgusting brokerage charges. Item was well packed and it it truly something to see in reality! Other reviews have called it a "work of art" - I'm not sure about that, but this thing exudes - yes EXUDES!- high end quality. It is very apparent that this is more than a trainer that someone designed - it has been meticulously thought out in every detail in terms of both design and functionality. It's like they looked at the shortcomings of every other trainer out there and addressed them head on - point by point by point.
The set-up could not have been easier. I was a little apprehensive at first seeing the detailed instructions - but they are dummy proof and a breeze to get through. No adjustments were needed out of the box, but even if you did need to tweak it up, 1UP has included all the tools - how good is that??
Adjustment options up the ying yang! No front block required and stable as h*ll! Resistance options, height options, wonky floor options - the list goes on!
The ride itself is smooth and controlled - I still have my nubby tires on and even with those it was great (although I think I will get a cheap slick for indoor training).
I can't say enough good things about this trainer or 1UP - It's quality and functionality are more than apparent - 1UP is just as confident and that is why they back it up with a Lifetime Warranty! BUY IT!! If you don't like it (you gotta be nuts for one thing) 1UP will take it back and pay the shipping - again there are very very few companies that will stand behind a product to this extent.
I'm actually looking forward to my indoor training in good ol' Winterpeg!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scottsfire
a Racer
from Summit County Colorado Date Reviewed: September 6, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Peaks Trail; Summit County CO
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
eBay of course!
Strengths:
Ok, obviously before buying this product I did a considerable amount of research. I read every review on this site on 1Up Trainers and anything I could find on the internet and to be honest, the reviews for this thing were so great that I thought it might have been some kinda scam. After all not everyone is going to be this happy over a product and the product couldn't be this perfect. But I went ahead and ordered it anyway for my fall training, after all there is a money back guarantee. When I got this thing in the mail, I realized that everyone was right on with the quality. The thing is built better than all 3 of my professional racing bikes put together. Everything is perfectly machine cut and looks so durable that it will be living long after I'm gone. The design of the thing is extrodinary, and you can tell it was a labor of love for someone to design. Heck, my wife, who is an accountant, could even load her bike securely in 3 seconds. I truly believe that there is not a bike on the market that wouldn't fit this thing and all of its adjustment. I bet you could put a kids tiny bike on the thing and it would work. EXTREMELY QUITE! I can't hear it. VERY STABLE even in my sprint workouts. Hill training, ha, its awesome. I climb to Vail Pass or the continental divide twice a week (long climbs) and this thing can be geared to feel the same way. Plus I can lower the back tire to the floor and make the bike level without one of those front tire blocks. COMPACT! When you have 4 bikes stuffed into your wifes favorite closet, asking for more room to put your trainer in is suicidal. But with this thing it folds up into 6 inches and she doesn't even know its in there with everything else. I can still get the vacuum cleaner in there. Listen, you won't be dissatified at all. Totally worth the $299 and then some, plus the life time warranty. This thing is the bomb and is bomb proof all at the same time. You will love it. Clearly you will appreciate the design and quality.
Weaknesses:
It doesn't come with a Trek Bikes sticker on it. An hour after I opened the box I made it officially mine by adding my trade mark Trek sticker to it. It clearly was too cool looking not to have a Trek sticker on it.
Similar Products Used:
Cycle Ops Fluid 2
Bike Setup:
2003 Trek OCLV Carbon Roady w/Easton EC90 Carbon bars, Easton EC70 Carbon seatpost and as always Chris King Headset. 2001 Trek Alum. Roady 2002 Kona Kula, XTR all the way around, Chris King hubs and headset, Easton Monkey Carbon bars, Easton carbon seatpost, Mavic 515 CC rims. (My baby)
Bottom Line:
There are very few products that you will buy in your life and not find a thing wrong with it. This is one of those products. I quess what these people have done is stick to building and designing only a few things and doing it right rather than designing everything under the sun and doing it half a$$. Give it a shot, if you don't like it then send it back, they pay for the return shipping.
Still got questions? email me!
Keep the rubber side down! The Ragin' Cajun
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Weekend Warrior
from Powell Date Reviewed: July 14, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
1up USA
Strengths:
This product has EXCELLENT engineering and build quality. I'm an engineer who has designed and put metal fabricated products into production and this product is extremely well thought out and is very high content for its price. It also delivers everything it advertises. It is extremely quiet, and does have a feel that approximates the resistance of the real road. It can definitely develop resistance much better than rollers can.
I think the best off season bike training would consist of a combination of riding rollers to keep your balance and smooth spin and this 1up USA fixed trainer to work on power.
I like to work out when I wake up and a fixed wheel trainer is very useful if you want to ride for extended periods and work on endurance. Rollers are great, but over the years I have had some close calls on them and gotten hurt a few times falling over. Embarassing but true. I have a guard rail next to them now.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Neil Ebuen
a Cross Country Rider
from Rowlett, TX Date Reviewed: April 17, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Anywhere where's dirt ...
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
1upUSA.com
Strengths:
SUPERB build quality. Machined to TIGHT, EXACTING tolerances. MASSIVE flywheel. ADJUSTABLE resistance. No assembly required, only minimal adjustments are necessary to accomodate your bicycle. INGENIOUS lever arm mechanism to engage/disengage bike from the trainer. Pretty hefty in size and stable even on thick, padded carpeted area. Realistic road feel and very quiet. The noise that's present only emanates from your bike's drivetrain, i.e. chains & gears. The CONVENIENCE of cycling under controlled circumstances.
Weaknesses:
None, that I could think of or even foresee in the future.
Similar Products Used:
Haven't tried anything else. I selected this product solely upon the reviews I read here at www.mtbr.com and www.roadbikereview.com
Bike Setup:
1998 Trek Y22 with a Specialized Fat Boy Slick tire (26x1.25) on back
Bottom Line:
Let me add to the accolades of this excellent product. I have no regrets purchasing it. It is well worth the price. Pictures don't do this product any justice. When I unpacked it from the box I immediately noticed the QUALITY of this product. Like what others have already said, it's a piece of artwork to be admired as well as to be ridden!!!
How does it ride? It feels like riding on pavement minus the hazards of pedestrians, cars, potholes, etc. I tried to overpower the flywheel, but couldn't quite do it. It's not possible because the harder you pedal, the greater the resistance. I also purchased the Cateye Astrale computer. When combined with my Polar S210 Heart Rate Monitor I look forward to interval training within the specific cardio training zones to achieve optimum fitness.
This thing is built to last.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from Richmond, VA usa Date Reviewed: April 4, 2003
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
1 up website
Strengths:
adjustable, quality, quiet
Weaknesses:
can't set resistance very high - but sill better than competition
Similar Products Used:
blackburn, rollers
Bottom Line:
Very nice product, but expensive
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jay Tibbitts
a
from San Francisco, CA, USA Date Reviewed: March 27, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
Website
Strengths:
Smooth rolling, high quality workmanship
Weaknesses:
Tends to wobble during workouts, resistance changes can be unpredictable
Bike Setup:
Merckx road bike
Bottom Line:
The 1upUSA trainer is a really well-made piece of equipment. High quality materials and careful craftsmanship are evident. The set-up was easy, but adjusting it for a second bike is a bit of a hassle. Once it is set up, getting the bike in and out is a breeze. The level of resistance is sensitive to how tightly one pushes the resistance unit up against the tire, and also seems to be affected by tire pressure (mine tends to squeak when the tire pressure gets low). It rides smooth with good, progressive resistance. It is nearly silent which is great for listening to the radio or TV. Its definitely stable enough to get out of the saddle, but it does tend to get a little unstable during long workouts. Either the legs adjustments are moving or it may be moving around a little on my concrete floor resulting in some rocking (I haven't yet tried putting it on a rug or mat). Still, these are pretty minor complaints and I'm really very happy with the unit. Customer service was great...the first unit I had was defective and they promptly replaced it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
J. Richard Sladkey
a
from Arlington, MA, US Date Reviewed: March 23, 2003
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
1upUSA
Strengths:
Quality, features, reliability and support
Weaknesses:
Excellence comes at a price
Similar Products Used:
Various home and gym trainers
Bottom Line:
I really like my 1upUSA trainer and don't regret for a second that I paid a moderate premium over other similar models I have used or considered. I got what I paid for and more. This trainer is clearly a labor of love for its designer and retailer and it is a pleasure to own and ride. I purchased this model based on the reviews I had read in this forum and I have not been disappointed.
I put more than 600 miles on this trainer in the last three months without a hitch and I'm reminded of its quality every time I ride it or look at it. It folds to the size of fat dictionary, it's rock steady when riding, it has a realistic resistance curve, it has near-realistic momentum, acceleration and spin-down, and it's quieter than any trainer I've ever used.
In fact, the resistance curve is so stable that I realized the affect rolling resistance can have. If you keep the unit clean and periodically lubricate the axle and spring (conservatively every 250 miles), then the vast majority of the variation in the resistance curve between rides will be how tightly you press the roller against the tire. If you measure the spin-down time from a given speed like 20 mph and make sure that that doesn't change, then the 1upUSA trainer can be used remarkably accurately for fitness test comparisons over time.
Overall, this is a premium product with excellent customer support. If you can afford the extra 50-100 bucks, then trainers doesn't get any better that this.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David
a Weekend Warrior
from West Canaan,NH USA Date Reviewed: March 13, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Rail Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
online
Strengths:
Easy set up, Quite, Very relistic, Couldn't ask for better customer service. Very well made, Folds up nice so you can hide it away. Adjusts to unlevel floors like mine.
Weaknesses:
None so far
Similar Products Used:
none first and last trainer
Bike Setup:
Jamis diablo with slick
Bottom Line:
I think this is a great trainer and the customer service is outstanding, I ordered a computer with the trainer and computer died for some reason and I called on Tuesday afternoon and on Thursday I received a new one without sending the old one first. I don't think you can go wrong with this trainer. I am a big guy and I was reading the reviews and one of them said that the resistance wasn't all the great but they had called and been sent three extra ball bearings, well I ordered mine with the three extra's and its got all I can handle. During the summer I ride 20 miles a day and when I got this trainer and set it up and rode my first 20 miles it took me the same amount of time as it did for real and the average speed was the same. This will be my first and last trainer.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tony Cook
a Weekend Warrior
from Scotch Plains, NJ USA Date Reviewed: March 12, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Great Swamp, Gillette, NJ
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
on-line from manufacturer
Strengths:
This is an outstanding product, though it is my first ever trainer so it is difficult to compare. The road feeling is lifelike and there is just enough give and sway to feel not so stiff as I'm told is the case with many trainers. The thing is silent except for the sound of chain on gears. I use it with my heart rate monitor and get a great workout. Snapping the bike in takes about 3 seconds as does getting it out. A terrific buy.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
3 seconds
Bottom Line:
You will not regret this purchase. It is solid and I see no reason that it will not last at least 10 years.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Todd
a Weekend Warrior
from Oklahoma City, OK Date Reviewed: February 28, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Arcadia
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
This is a follow-up to my earlier post. I retract my statements about poor customer service. 1up has now bent over backwards to help out with this problem and I commend their efforts to address the 29 inch wheel problem. I have used my son's bike on the trainer and I really like it. I hope they can work out a "fix" for the 29 inch wheels.
Weaknesses:
Not a good fit for 29 inch wheels
Bike Setup:
Gary Fisher Mt. Tam 29 (2002)
Bottom Line:
Very good trainer with the limitation noted above. I would recommend to anyone with "regular" wheels.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bob
a Cross Country Rider
from wisconsin Date Reviewed: February 21, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
strong enough for a 240lb guy to mash some big gears. Super easy to set up and level.
Weaknesses:
absoluetly none!
Similar Products Used:
various horrible magnetic trainers
Bike Setup:
klein attitude race- full XT
Bottom Line:
Sweetest trainer on the planet. Very sturdy, easy to set up. The customer service is the best in the trainer market. A little spendy but _way_ worth it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mitch
a Cross Country Rider
from Madison, Wisconsin Date Reviewed: February 11, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
www.1upusa.com
Strengths:
I ride a lot in the summer time and I shed a tear each time I look at my bike hanging in the garage during the winter. This winter I did something about it and purchased a 1Up trainer. I have put a substantial number of miles on it in the very short time I have had it. It’s a great feeling to be riding while the snow flies!!
I was impressed how easy the 1Up trainer was to setup. No assembly was required. The bike locks into position in seconds.
The system is unbelievably quiet. There is no sound from the 1Up trainer. The only sound you hear is the sound from the chain as you crank it up. This was important to me, as I like to listen to tunes or watch TV while I rack up the miles.
There are many nice extras that the 1Up designers included that I doubt other bicycle trainers include. The first is the handy tool for making adjustments for the initial setup. The second is the ability to adjust the height of the rear wheel. Because of this, the bike doesn’t require a block for the front wheel.
The online instructions where not required but could be handy if someone needed additional guidance.
I’m impressed with the value of the 1Up trainer (not to mention shipping was FREE).
I’m going to be “1Up” on my riding buddies by the time the warm weather arrives!
Weaknesses:
I haven't found one.
Bike Setup:
Trek
Bottom Line:
Realistic ride characteristics. Great value. Shipping was FREE. Super quiet. No assembly.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Leroy Roberts
a Weekend Warrior
from Dodgeville Date Reviewed: February 11, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Dodgeville to Barneveld
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
1upusa.com
Strengths:
I found the trainer to be excellent in its function. The setup was very simple and the placement of my recumbent bike was very easy. My hands are free to hold the bike and by stepping on the leaver, the trainer closes on the wheel and holds it in place. Withmy recumbent,I could find no other trainer which would fit the small wheels and keep my bike level. The trainer by 1up is perfect. It is easy to setup and includes the proper tools to adjust the height for the wheel locks. Other trainers which I have tried for regular bicycles, require two people to place them on the trainer. One person must hold the bicycle and one to turn the knobs to hold the bicycle wheel with the wheel locks. I highly recommend this trainer and am pleased with the value.
Bottom Line:
Anyone purchasing this trainer will find it an excellent value and find it outperforms any other trainer by a wide margin. Again, I especilly like the ease of placing the bike in the trainer and the fact that the bicycle sets level when one is riding.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Russ Roeckel
a Cross Country Rider
from San Mateo, CA USA Date Reviewed: February 5, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Corte Madera
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
1up
Strengths:
Quietness, stability, ease of setup, great workout, etc...
1984 Centurion Turbo, 58 cm., all original equipement.
Bottom Line:
At this point, I've been riding the 1UP for just over 3 weeks.
This unit is very cool. I love the quiet aspect, I can watch my tapes, listen to the music, whatever and not blast out my neighbors. The unit does amplify any bike noises, such as knocks from the rear hub but that's my bikes problem and they're not unreasonable.
I generally train for roughly an hour and when the unit was new it spun very easily at 18 mph making consistent workouts at 23-24 mph attainable through some good effort. I was thinking of adjusting it for the harder workout to more realistically simulate my road experinces.
Now however, within the last week it seems to have 'broken-in' and maintaining 18 mph is a workout and maintaining 23-24 is not possible for long in my present winter condition (and age). This is much more realistic to my road riding and I no longer wish to make the unit perform at a more difficult level.
The only trouble I had with setting up the trainer was the Sigma computer w/cadence. With over 20 years of riding/racing and buying dozens of bike computers it shouldn't have given me this much trouble. It wasn't that it didn't fit, more like the installation just didn't flow as well as it should have. Parts of it were very easy and then figuring something out would bottleneck the whole installation. I guess part of it was that the sensors are very sensitive on placement of magnet and pickup in relation to one another and this isn't necessarily where the diagrams show.
I'm not sure this review sounds as glowing as it should be, I really like the unit alot and would not change my decision for any reason. Everytime I get off my bike from a workout I have a great feeling and a good part of that is because the 1up performs so well.
My product weekness regarding price is probably unfounded because the unit is priced along with other top units from different manufacturers and I believe it's a superior product. Still, $300 is $300 and it's a little hard to choke down for an old cheapskate like me. Then again, considering how long I plan to keep the 1up,it should payoff and then some.
Who should use it? Everybody interested in quality indoor training who can afford the $300 price tag. Even if you can't, considering saving up and getting a good quality product that you're be happy with rather than an inexpensive one that makes you wish you waited everytime you get on it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Todd
a Weekend Warrior
from Oklahoma Date Reviewed: January 31, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Brush Creek
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
on-line
Strengths:
Nice and sturdy, stable trainer.
Weaknesses:
WILL NOT WORK ON 29 INCH WHEELS - I.E. FISHER MT. TAM OR SUPERCALIBER 29; MORE NOISE THAN I WAS EXPECTING
Similar Products Used:
none
Bottom Line:
This would be a great trainer if it would fit my bike. I was very surprised to learn that even 1up didn't know of this problem. No offer made by them of a refund despite their lack of knowledge of the 29 inch problem.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bob
a Cross Country Rider
from NY Date Reviewed: January 21, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$338.00
Purchased At:
1UPS
Strengths:
Great look, quality product, easy to assemble, great customer service
Weaknesses:
Haven't had it long enough to know. Doesn't have the wind and visuals of a real road ride
Similar Products Used:
none - first trainer
Bike Setup:
Trek 7300
Bottom Line:
Bought this cus its below zero and the streets are full of snow, salt and sand. Ordered on a Monday afternoon, delivered (NY) on Friday. Easy to set up. Looks great. Love the resistance based on the gear I choose, not the trainer dictating. HAve really only used it twice, so don't know how it will hold up etc, but so far very happy. Price I paid included a computer
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gary
a Cross Country Rider
from Long Island Date Reviewed: December 24, 2002
Favorite Trail:
cathedral pines
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
1up online
Strengths:
Well machined. Good looking piece of equipment. Very adjustable. Do not need a front wheel training block.
Weaknesses:
Standard set-up does not offer enough resitance for mountain bikes (read my review)
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
trek 8500LT mountain bike
Bottom Line:
I was ready to send it back, but I e-mailed 1up and they responded before the day was over. Step 1 - move the three ball bearings to the outermost grooves - this helped a little. Step 2 - remove the spring - this helped a little at lower speeds. (I had tried steps 1 & 2 prior to e-mailing) Step 3 - 1up sent out 3 additional bearings (no charge). I put all six bearings in the slots. Do all three steps together and you get all the resistance you need. I can stand and sprint during those segments of the "spinervals" workout that call for out of the seat sprinting. If you have a street bike you would not have to make these adjustment which by the way take only about 3or 4 minutes.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Racer
from Santa Cruz, CA Date Reviewed: December 17, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
MFG
Strengths:
Quality build, Looks beautiful, fairly quiet, all metal.
Weaknesses:
Instructions, you'll see why.
Bottom Line:
This is a follow-up and recant post to one that I had previously put up. In my first post, I was angered about the lack of resistance the machine offered. Thankfully, someone emailed me and told me to re-read my instructions to find the part about removing the wheel, changing the metal ball's location, and removing the spring. I had previously noticed my instructions seemed to end abruptly. They hadn't given me both sides to the page, so I never had the resistance changing stuff.
I would like to recant my first post and change the review.
However, I am a bit bummed by not getting complete instructions. I called the company and spoke with someone there. They asked me what the problem was and I told them my instructions. He then apologized and told me that there was an error and a few units were sent out with 1/2 the instructions. He referred me to the website for instructions.
Good customer service + Good Product (Now anyways)= 5 Flamin Chilli Peppers. Please ignore my previous post.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan Gauthier
a Cross Country Rider
from Berlin,NH USA Date Reviewed: December 8, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
eBAY
Strengths:
This trainer is remarkable. The more you pour into it, the stronger the resistance. Resistance is stable and allows for consistant cadence without any manual controls to select. It is very ingenuis. Well built, sturdy construction! Easy setup! Extremely quite! For the novice or the Professional rider, this trainer meets all expectations!
Weaknesses:
None thus far!
Similar Products Used:
Mag Minoura
Bike Setup:
Univega Alpina 500 Mtn Bike
Bottom Line:
Product quality, expected longevity and ingenuity, far out way the purchase price! NO REGRETS !!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from Santa Cruz, CA Date Reviewed: November 30, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
Direct from MFG
Strengths:
Looks Build
Weaknesses:
Explained in narrative
Similar Products Used:
N/A
Bike Setup:
SC Superlight, RS Psylo Race, Chris King Headset/Disk Hubs, Hayes Hydro, D321 CD Rims, All XTR
Bottom Line:
This is the first trainer I have ever owned, now that I have said that here is how I feel...
I ride my Superlight three to four times a week at 20 miles + per ride. I would say that I am in decent shape. I have a large build (6'04'/215 lbs) and tend to give my stuff a run for its money.
I bought the 1up trainer becuase I thought that 25+ people could not be wrong, especially with 5 chilli pepper ratings each.
I got the trainer from UPS and unpackaged it. I must say it is a work of art! I read the instructions and set it up verbatem. I put the ole' Superlight with slick tire on the trainer and began to pedal. Not knowing how much resistance there really was on the wheel, I had my gear set in the middle ring and the middle cog. I had to immediately shift to the large ring and small cog to keep the trainer from spinning (no resistance). I finally dialed in the resitance by turning the trainer adjuster all the way in and my bike in the large ring and small cog. The nice thing is that I have a good warm up resistance. But I can't get any more out of the unit/my bike. I think that for $300 this thing should offer a setting that I couldn't blow through with my easiest of gearing combinations.
It really isn't that quiet. Now, to reword that a bit. It is much quieter than some of the other trainers my riding partners use, but it is far from "silent" as others say. With a knobby on it sounds like a tornado in the room.
The unit sways from side to side under pedalling. I couldn't imagine trying to do a standing sprint on this thing.
I am not trying to bash the unit, becuase as the rest of you say it is the best out there for this price range. I agree, but I must say I am a bit disappointed. I will give it more time, I have only had it for a month and a half so far.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shawn
a Cross Country Rider
from Utah Date Reviewed: November 29, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Glenwild loop
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
1upusa.com
Strengths:
Absolutely everything. This thing is a show of great craftsmanship
Weaknesses:
not a damn thing.
Similar Products Used:
wind trainer, and tested some fluids.
Bottom Line:
If your looking for a trainer, this is the only one you should need. Its the quietest thing i have ever ridden on and the resistance is true to the road. The workouts have been awsome. It is well worth the money. This thing can be set up to fit any bike with ease. The stability is great. No sway when you pedal and you can really hammer on it when you stand to sprint. I would highly recommend this product to anyone who wants a good trainer that truely does what they advertise.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from Boston Date Reviewed: November 15, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
Direct
Strengths:
Design & build quality
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
vintage turbo trainer
Bike Setup:
Seven Teres with a slick on rear
Bottom Line:
Wow! When I unpacked this unit my wife said we should put it on the wall (a work of art!). A fine example of American Craftsmanship. Functions flawlessly. At $299 this is a steal!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris Smalley
a Cross Country Rider
from Coral Gables, FL Date Reviewed: November 12, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
1up.com
Strengths:
Incredable quality construction. Easy setup and addjustment. Folds up compactly. Quite operation. Feels like a smooth road.
Weaknesses:
None
Bike Setup:
GT Avalanche / Rock Shox Psylo XC / rear slick for the trainer. Trainer adjusted to higher resistance. (200lbs)
Bottom Line:
This was purchased to keep my after work rides going during the winter. I was really impressed by the construction. Machined parts, not stamped out stuff. When I ride on the trainer I do the same speed as when I am on the road, what more can you ask for? What a great workout. Watch out for the puddle of sweat under your bike!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Weekend Warrior
from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: October 29, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
www.1upusa.com
Strengths:
Extremely solid construction Smooth ride Quiet
Weaknesses:
None so far
Bike Setup:
Marin Wolfe Ridge with Continental Goliath Semislick for use with the trainer.
Bottom Line:
I agree with previous reviews that describe this trainer as a work of art as well as excellent engineering. Brokerage fees, GST and PST added $120 CDN to the overall price.
Easy to setup, pleasure to use.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Todd
a Cross Country Rider
from Putney, VT Date Reviewed: October 23, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
www.1upusa.com
Strengths:
Rock solid, beautiful craftsmanship, incredible customer service.
Weaknesses:
Makes me wonder why I wasted money on any other trainer.
Similar Products Used:
Cyclops, Minoura
Bottom Line:
As Al Kreitler's ad says, the bitterness of poor quality lasts long after the sweetness of low price disappears. If you plan to have a trainer to actually ride and do so for many years stop quibbling over $100 and buy the best one out there.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Christopher
a Cross Country Rider
from Valley Cottage, N.Y. Date Reviewed: October 2, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Hook Mountain
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
1UpUSA.com
Strengths:
Solid construction, Ease of setting up, smooth bearing action and folds up compactly.
Weaknesses:
This trainer is such a pleasure to use that it may keep my workouts indoors more than it should.
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Giant Sedona
Bottom Line:
This is my first trainer and so far I love it. I ordered the Cat Eye Astrale computer with it and it works great. This trainer will keep me in shape throughout the winter months. The instructions to set up the unit out of the box could be a little more clear but it wasn't a problem. I highly recomend this product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Richard
a Weekend Warrior
from Virginia Beach, Virginia, USA Date Reviewed: September 28, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Seashore State Park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
1upusa.com
Strengths:
Built like a brick outhouse.
Weaknesses:
?? Only available in blue ?? The electronic odometer isn't really designed to be free standing and is a bit of a pain to remove to ride on the street.
Bike Setup:
Quintana Roo Kilo - Tri set up
Bottom Line:
Just a note to say that I thought nothing could be good enough to justify the reviews and therefore it must be a con. Not so, very impressive, very substantial and well made. Very smooth e-Commerce experience.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark Rosengarten
a Cross Country Rider
from Wallkill, NY, USA Date Reviewed: September 25, 2002
Favorite Trail:
My bedroom
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
1up
Strengths:
*tough construction *smooth bearing action *easy bike loading *brainless adjustment *folds up nicely
Weaknesses:
*none noted so far
Similar Products Used:
Numerous stationary bikes
Bike Setup:
Giant Sedona
Bottom Line:
I have burned through an average of one stationary bike a year for the last eight years. This allows me to use my regular bike to do my daily 11 miles workouts and not be foreced to leave the bike out when company comes...but I usually do to show it off! :) The action is smooth and it feels no different than riding on a smooooooth road surface!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego Date Reviewed: August 21, 2002
Favorite Trail:
There's too many to decide from!
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
1up
Strengths:
Solid, quiet, adjustable, folds very compact - a beautiful design!
Similar Products Used:
Blackburn
Bottom Line:
I only use my trainer on days I don't get out to ride for some stupid reason, like work...But when I do have to get my workout on the trainer, it makes what could be a chore a lot more enjoyable.
I just wish mountain bike tires didn't scream like banshees on trainers. I'd like to train on the same set-up I ride, but since it's kind of a pain to switch wheels between different drive trains, I just use my commuter bike with smooth tires when I'm on the trainer, which is fine except I don't have clipless pedals on it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Al H
a Weekend Warrior
from Marietta, Ga Date Reviewed: August 18, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Yellow River
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
1upUSA.com
Strengths:
This is a great product. Easy to assemble, and very quiet.
Weaknesses:
None
Bike Setup:
Used this on 4 different bikes until I got just the one that worked for all of us that wanted to use it.
Bottom Line:
I also wanted to say that 1upUSA was a great company to deal with. I had a problem with the bike computer that I also purchased with the trainer. It worked, but intermittently.I zipped an email to 1upUSA, and within an hour, Corky responed back saying that he was sending another one out that day, and I could return the defective one in the mailer he included. Well the USPS lost the box somewhere, and he sent another one, one questions asked. This is great service!!! Tells me that you can trust this company with your purchases. Thanks Corky.....
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Craig Sargent
a Weekend Warrior
from Saint Cloud, Florida Date Reviewed: July 2, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Alafia River trail system
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$284.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Accurately Simulates road riding, Riding 21mph on this trainer really does feel like 21mph on the road. Smooth resistance, not jerkey or un-even feeling.
Weaknesses:
None So Far.
Similar Products Used:
Tried a Friends Cycleops Fluid. (Not Fluid square)
Bike Setup:
GT Zaskar, Xt/Xtr components, with a slick for the trainer, or my Specialized M2 metal matrix with all Ultegra components.
Bottom Line:
This is my first trainer, and so far I love it.. It makes it very easy to hop onto the bike and get a quick work out. the trainer feels very smooth, and it simulates riding on the road very accurately. I was a bit reluctant to spend so much on a trainer but I am glad I did. I now have a way to work out any time I want to, and I Imagine this trainer will last for my lifetime.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jorge
a Weekend Warrior
from Medford,NY Date Reviewed: June 20, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$285.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
This trainer is very accurate in simulating the road.It is the easiest unit to set up, I have used it for my bianchi and my easy racer recumbent. the unit is super quiet, you can watch tv and the time just goes by. I started training for the summer season late this year because of lack of spare time, because of 1up I will be in good shape soon.
Weaknesses:
One minor thing if you use slick raod tires you have to tighten down the adjustment nut or you wil get a little squealing. but that's it.
Similar Products Used:
blackburn and cycle-ops
Bike Setup:
Bianchi Giro,Easy racers tour easy(recumbent)
Bottom Line:
great unit. excellent company to deal with, I spoke to the owner about some tech info and he's really a nice guy. Buy one you won't be sorry.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Firdaus Aryana
a Racer
from Seattle, WA Date Reviewed: June 14, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
Online
Strengths:
Sturdy, clean construction, built for the long haul. Easy to setup and use and a must have for both beginners and the hard core types. Solid bar alluminum construction with a well engineered portable design that you can easily transport, setup and start using.
Weaknesses:
This is an amazingly well engineered product. Have used it daily for a couple of months, and yet to see a flaw that really stands out enough for me to write about.
Similar Products Used:
CatEye, Cyclops
Bike Setup:
Bianchi - Road, Track
Bottom Line:
This is a no brainer. You really cannot go wrong with your money here. A great trainer with a great story and people to back it. Corky Phillips (creator of the product) was incredibly knowledgeable and helpful during the sale in answering all my questions.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Peter Ulrich
a Weekend Warrior
from Los Altos,CA US Date Reviewed: June 11, 2002
Favorite Trail:
my patio
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
www.1upusa.com
Strengths:
Ultra smooth, robust, well designed, easy to set up, attractive
Weaknesses:
none that I'm aware of
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Heckler, Bridgestone MB3
Bottom Line:
I was getting bored with my rowing machine and feeling furstrated with my lack of progress. I love working out on the 1up and haven't missed a day since I bought it. My wife loves this machine because she says she can see a difference in just three weeks. My doctor is going to love the results when I have my physical. My only regret is that I was considering buying the 1up about two months earlier and didn't do it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Art Oliver
a Cross Country Rider
from Elk Grove, CA, USA Date Reviewed: May 3, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Flume
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
1upusa.com
Strengths:
Quiet, smooth, broad range of resistance, customer service, lifetime warranty, no fluid
Weaknesses:
At this price point, there are none. It does everything I need.
Similar Products Used:
Was about to buy a CycleOps Fluid2 and came across 1UpUSA--fortunate occurrence.
Bike Setup:
Giant road, Fisher mtn
Bottom Line:
Personal circumstances dictate I ride a trainer 3-4x/week. If I've got to do it, the CPR A-2000 was a godsend. It's quiet, smooth, cannot be overpowered by my spindly legs (there's PLENTY of resistance for anyone), easy to set-up and tote around if needed. The unit truly is a step forward for this niche of trainers. The first unit I ordered had a minor problem. I sent an e-mail to the owner/inventor, Corky Phillips, offering to purchase a second unit until the first could be returned at which time he could credit me for the second. Instead, Corky sent me an e-mail saying a replacement had been sent and to return the first unit with a prepaid UPS label. He made it so easy I almost felt guilty. Great work all around by the company.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ROBERT
a Cross Country Rider
from CLIFFSIDE PARK NJ USA Date Reviewed: April 23, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
direct from 1up USA
Strengths:
THIS THINGS IS THE BEST. I DON'T DO POST ON PRUDUCTS UNLESS I REALLY FEEL THAT IT'S DESERVING OF ONE.I WAS LOOKING ONTO BUYING A SPINNING BIKE BUT AFTER LOOKING AT THEM AND SEEING HOW EXPENSIVE THEY WERE I STARTED LOOKING INTO TRAINERS INSTEAD. AFTER HAVING USED THIS FOR 3 MONTHS NOW, I THANK MY LUCKY STARS I CHOOSE 1UPS USA TRAINER. IT'S PERFECT, IT'S SIMPLE TO USE. SIMPLE TO SET UP, AND YOU CAN NOT WORKOUT HARDER ( OR EASIER IF YOU CHOOSE TO ) THAN THIS TRIANER CAN TAKE. BUY IT.. TAKE MY WORD FOR IT
Weaknesses:
NONE AND I MEAN NONE!!
Bike Setup:
TREK 700
Bottom Line:
IF YOU'RE LOOKING INTO PURCHASING A PRODUCT SUCH AS THIS, THEN THERE IS NO OTHER TRAINER TO BUY THAN THIS ONE.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sam K
a Racer
from Madison, WI Date Reviewed: April 14, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
1up
Strengths:
It's all good - excellent craftmanship, right out of the box you can see that they (1up) live the word "quality."
This trainer is light enough so that I WANT to take it races for warmups. The quick release alone is worth $200... oh yeah, took me a whole two minutes to setup...
Weaknesses:
None yet
Similar Products Used:
Cyclops, Computrainer
Bottom Line:
At $300, this unit is a steal. I was about to pick up a fluid 2 when I saw the web banner for 1up. Best click I've made in a long while.
This may well be the last trainer I ever have to buy. It's built that well. And no more LEAKS! Cyclops cost me a carpet and a lonely night on the couch (could've been more than the leak...)
Don't even think about another trainer
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wayne
a Cross Country Rider
from Boise, ID Date Reviewed: April 6, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Strengths:
A stunning piece of engineering work and craftsmanship. Most equivalent products in this price range are stamped-out mass produced junk; the 1up is all-aluminum, CNC machined, and the price tag includes free shipping and a lifetime guarantee! Frankly, I don't know how they can afford to do it.
I was impressed with the 1up the minute I took it out of the box. Fit and finish is flawless, instructions were simple and easy to follow, and initial setup took maybe 5 or 10 minutes. I laughed out loud when I found the custom-made adjustment wrench attached to the frame. It's attention to detail like this that sets the 1up trainer apart from the competition. Also included was a L-R (low resistance) kit for smaller riders and a rear axle skewer to ensure compatibility with the axle cups.
As for how it works, the 1up is hands down the best trainer I have used. The resistance ramps up quickly after about 15 mph, and gives me all I want when I stand up and crank (and I'm a 220+ lb. rider.) Compared to wind and mag trainers I have used in the past, the 1up is very quiet--my chain noise is louder than the resistance unit. Stability is good, and the big drive roller doesn't eat tires like other trainers. Fine adjustment knobs make it easy to set rear tire clearance from the ground, as well as tire/roller friction.
Weaknesses:
I wouldn't describe the following as product weaknesses, but rather idiosyncrasies:
- Resistance seems to increase as the unit gets warmed up. It's not dramatic, but I would estimate cruising speed drops about 2 mph once the resistance unit gets hot. I sometimes have problems finding the right gear during the transition period (just like real riding).
- The first few sessions I had a problem with the left axle cup shaft squeaking, especially when I would stand up and crank. I couldn't seem to get the lock nut tight enough with the provided tool, so I tightened it down with a long-handled 3/4" wrench. Haven't had a problem since.
- I installed the provided axle skewer on my old 12-speed road bike, and found that the threaded rod was too long for the trainer's axle cup to get a good grip. I filed about an 1/8" off the rod, and now it fits fine.
- The resistance unit gets hot! Hot enough to boil water off of it, so take my word for it and DON'T TOUCH IT!
Similar Products Used:
Minoura wind trainer, Supergo mag trainer
Bike Setup:
Old Panasonic road bike (indoor trainer use only)
Bottom Line:
Buy it! At $299, this trainer is a bargain, and kicks butt all over the competition.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kevin Mc
a Weekend Warrior
from Los Angeles, CA Date Reviewed: April 3, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
www.1upusa.com
Strengths:
This is a beautiful machine. Hats off to all involved with its design, machining and construction. I'm a pretty tough critic when it comes to mechanical gizmos, being something of a closet tinkerer myself, but I have nothing but praise for this one.
Over the years, the various gripes I've had with resistance trainers -- noise, fluid leakage, inaccurate power curves (i.e. the resistance units don't mimic the resistance of a real ride), manual resistance adjustments, difficulty mounting the bike, the need to elevate the front wheel, instability, poor collapsibility/storage -- have either been addressed thoughtfully here or circumvented altogether. The friction-based resistance unit -- and the chief reason in my opinion to buy this trainer over the competition -- takes care of the noise, leakage, power curve and manual adjustment problems. The remaining ones are dealt with through superior materials and canny engineering.
Since I purchased the trainer two weeks ago, I've ridden it most every day and it's performed just as advertised. It accelerates and decelerates naturally. The resistance "feels" like road resistance. It's very stable. It's also much quieter than I'd expected. I'm able to watch TV or listen to music without headphones, something that I've never been able to do with other trainers. I also love the quick-release mounting system; you're in and out in seconds.
All in all, this is an admirable piece of engineering and a genuine improvement over everything out there that I'm aware of. It's also gorgeous to look at. The competition should be concerned.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
Most everything out there.
Bottom Line:
I don't see how you can go wrong here. With its lifetime guarantee, this could be the last trainer you'll ever buy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave Stellenwerf
a Cross Country Rider
from Ramsey, NJ, United States Date Reviewed: April 1, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Ringwood, NJ
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
1up USA
Strengths:
Easy setup! Very quiet!
Weaknesses:
NONE!
Similar Products Used:
N/A
Bike Setup:
Klein Attitude Comp
Bottom Line:
A great Trainer! It works right out of the box with next to no setup time. I'll have this trainer for a long time. I would definately recommend it. The staff at 1up USA are very helpful and responsive.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chips
a Weekend Warrior
from Minneapolis Date Reviewed: March 26, 2002
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
www.1upusa.com
Strengths:
I agree with all the other reviews, this trainer is fantastic. As a lighter rider, I especially liked the way I could adjust the base resistance to make it more realistic to an outdoor ride. I added the Integrated Bike Computer or IBD. At $49.00 It is a great deal because you get a Sigma BC-1400 computer with cadence and two mounting kits--one for your bike and the other one hooks up to the trainer. It always bugged me when riding trainers that my bike computer did not work because my front wheel did not move. The IBD plugs into the trainer. I can track my speed (current , average & max), distance, cadence and mileage for indoor rides and outdoor rides.
Weaknesses:
I have not found one yet.
Similar Products Used:
I hated all the mag trainers. THE WIND ONES ARE TOO LOUD! The Kinetic is better than the Cycleops fluid2, but I bought the 1upusa.
Bike Setup:
My bike is nothing special, but I like it and it is paid for.
Bottom Line:
Best frame in the business. The foot lever eliminates the need for three hands when attaching my bike. The warranty is great. I don't mind investing a good piece of equipment and it looks like this trainer will last. The closer was the integrated bike computer. Riding any trainer is boring and building the numbers on the computer keep me motivated.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scotty L
a Weekend Warrior
from Woodland Park, CO Date Reviewed: March 15, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
www.1upusa.com
Strengths:
The quality of design, craftsmanship and materials is excellent. The product description says light-weight aluminum, which made me wonder, but this is AIRCRAFT aluminum. The thing is beefy and solid!!! It has every adjustment you could think of. This product is exceeding my already elevated expectations!!! And it rides great!!!
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
I was going to get the Cycle-Ops Fluid Trainer and than found the real deal - 1up
Bike Setup:
C-Dale Ultegra
Bottom Line:
Awesome Baby!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Samuel Tyler Bayles
a Cross Country Rider
from Tucson, AZ, USA Date Reviewed: February 28, 2002
Favorite Trail:
moab
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
www.1upusa.com
Strengths:
easy set up, super quiet ride, awesome range of resistance!!
Weaknesses:
none thus far
Similar Products Used:
computrainer
Bike Setup:
simple
Bottom Line:
great product, definitely better than the competition, highly recommended!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave V
a
from Sheffield, England Date Reviewed: February 28, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
direct from 1up
Strengths:
Looks, quality, ride, resistance, service
Weaknesses:
None to date
Similar Products Used:
Cycle-ops fluid, fluid +
Bike Setup:
Nothing-too-special racing bike
Bottom Line:
I had to get the 1up shipped to the UK - which cost me quite a bit extra, but it has been worth the money so far. Basically however much you spend you want a machine that (i) works you hard and (ii)(hopefully!) won't break down - and that's what you get. I'm hoping that this will be the last trainer I have to buy - just too many problems with earlier fluid models. Service was really helpful too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan
a Racer
from Atlanta, GA, USA Date Reviewed: February 22, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Kuakini Highway (fall)
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Factory Direct
Strengths:
Well machined(solid), smooth, consistent, quiet, telescoping legs, multifarious adjustment, one-foot bike entry, extra level of resistance, and CPR - nuff said
Weaknesses:
None!
Similar Products Used:
Kurt, CycleOps (fluid, mag, wind), Minoura, Blackburn, etc.
Bike Setup:
Quintana Roo - Kilo, Integra
Bottom Line:
I will make this clear, there are two peruasive reasons I purchased the 1UpUSA instead of a fluid trainer from Kurt (a great product): 1)The CPR unit makes sense and if you have an understanding of physics you may understand how this concept is much more consistent, smooth, and longlasting - also no leaking issues that WILL eventually arise with fluid resistance; 2)Cal "Corky" Phillips was THERE - I mean come on - this guy is not only the owner/ceo/prez, he INVENTED it and stands behind it as the BEST trainer on earth, period.
Another thing that I didn't realize was that I can put this trainer under my queensize BED in our 1 bedroom condo 14 floors above midtown Atlanta. Wife is stoked about that, now I need to find a fold-up tri-bike ;-) However, this trainer is for the serious cyclist and it is cool to buy a less expensive trainer if you have no choice - I have been there. But if you want THE best - look no further and give Corky a call - you will not be sorry.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Benjamin
a Weekend Warrior
from Eveleth, MN 55 Date Reviewed: February 17, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
1upusa factory direct
Strengths:
Smooth, quiet, stable, totally adjustable, load and unload bikes with ease, no front wheel spacer needed, works on any surface. Beautiful anodized and etched aluminum. Built to last! Fold's flat in seconds to transport or store away. Won't mark floor surface.
Weaknesses:
absolutely none!
Bike Setup:
light weight G. Fisher XC
Bottom Line:
This trainer is a work of art, too nice to put away as it sits in my office with my bike. You want to use this trainer! Corky was very nice to do business with and took the the time to answer any questions I had. Super great price for this quality product!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott Cullen
a Racer
from Platteville, WI, USA Date Reviewed: January 19, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Alpine Valley
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Show
Strengths:
i may be only 16, and you may think htat i dont know anything, but this is one thing that i do know somting about! it has more features than anyother trainer! lighter stronger more compact than any other product that even comes close to it on the market! this product has a wide range of training "ways" if you will. it dosent matter if you are a pro racer or if you are just a weekend rider, it will fit you just so perfect! you can hill climb, road ride, or sunday afternoon cruze. if you hill climb, just change to a higher gear stand and just try to outpower it, try as hard as you can, but i bet you cant! thats what is so great about this product! it's the most versitile trainer that i have ever ridden!
Weaknesses:
i havent found one yet, and it looks like there isnt going to be one
Similar Products Used:
NONE measure up to it
Bike Setup:
its awesome
Bottom Line:
i rate it 11 "Flamin' Chilis"
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave F
a Cross Country Rider
from Coeur d'Alene Id Date Reviewed: January 18, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Cave Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
1upUSA
Strengths:
GREAT cusotmer service!
Weaknesses:
none
Bike Setup:
Blah Blah...too much lightweight custom crap to list
Bottom Line:
This is a follow-up to my earlier post. After two months of use the drum aquired a problem. It started making a knocking sound and vibrating badly. I called Corky (the owner) and described the problem to him. He said that he had never heard of that kind of problem and had never had a unit sent back for repairs but to send it back to him right away. So, the very day that he received the trainer from FedEx he called me back. He told me that a spring had broken inside but the unit was fixed and being shipped out the very same day he received it. He told me that 1up does not make their own springs and that once and a great while one is defective. He also tried to call me (voice mail) to find out my shipping charges to get the unit back to him. He couldn't get me before he shipped out the unit so he just included a check for $20 to cover my shipping! It only cost me $10! I truly believe that the broken spring was a fluke. Corky handled the situation better than any merchant I have ever dealt with. I cannot recommend this company or this product any higher. Definitely go with 1up if you want the Cadillac of trainers AND service.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Cathy
a Weekend Warrior
from Plamyra,WI, USA Date Reviewed: December 29, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$199.00
Purchased At:
from 1upusa
Strengths:
easy to setup, very easy to take the bike off and store away. Flat storage, provides a variety of levels for training, the trainer is solid, quiet, very stable,no rocking or wobbling,
Bike Setup:
Trek 700
Bottom Line:
The 1upusa trainer is well-made. One of the features I really like is that it can store flat and it takes less than a minute to setup or put away. It feels sturdy and stable. My 75 LB dog decided he would like to go for a ride and jumped up on me, the bike never even wobbled. Any level of rider can benefit from it. It has the ability to provide an aerobic workout to muscle burning hill climbing sessions by changing the gears on the bike. I am already back at a mid-summer fitness level. The service and staff has been great. The life time warranty on the parts finally sold me on the trainer. I have been very satisfied with the trainer. After seeing my trainer, my next door neighbor was so impressed, he even bought one!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave Ferguson
a Cross Country Rider
from Idaho Date Reviewed: December 28, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Cave Trail
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
1Upusa.com
Strengths:
Folds flat. Sturdy, All AL constrution. Adjustable legs front and rear eliminates need for front riser, quiet, blu anodizing is very pretty to look at, foot quick release works as advertised, axle cups are very strong and it doesn't give while standing, comes with an adjusting wrench and a skewer to insure it will work with your bike. Cannot spin it out--wide range of resistance. The resistance unit never needs replacing and cannot leak as it has no oil. Feels like riding on the road.
Weaknesses:
Telescoping legs could have markings so you can tell if each one is extended to the same length. Just use a ruler or eye it up.
Similar Products Used:
none--it's my first trainer and likely my last.
Bottom Line:
It's a fine piece of machinery. It looks handmade (in the good way) and is priced right with the mass market overpriced crap from the other guys. Also, the owner Corky talks to you on the phone, is a nice guy willing to answer questions, and will sell you a CycleOps for his cost if you don't like his unit. It's worth the money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Denny Clark
a Cross Country Rider
from Miami, FL. USA Date Reviewed: December 25, 2001
Favorite Trail:
The glades
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
1upusa.com
Strengths:
Fully adjustable frame, folds flat, Smooth and very quiet, lots of coast time, got it and it was fully assembled, light weight aluminum frame. Looks great!
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
CycleOps, Kurt and Tacx
Bike Setup:
For the trainer...Basso, Campy Record.
Bottom Line:
Great trainer,quiet smooth and solid. I have a CycleOps Fluid 2 but when I noticed some oil on the floor and the resistance was less, I bought the 1up trainer. It is light weight aluminum, and folds down 1/2 as small as my CycleOps. This trainer has a much wider range of resistance than my CycleOps. I am very strong rider (220 lbs) and I can't over power this trainer. My CycleOps was easy to over power. I can lower my rear wheel down to the floor so I don't need a riser block. This trainer has a foot operated lever, and I mount my bike in only a few seconds.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
NICK PECKIO
a Racer
from FAIRLAWN,NJ,USA Date Reviewed: December 23, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$299.00
Purchased At:
FACTORY DIRECT
Strengths:
BUILD QUALITY IS OBVIOUS, ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU USE IT, EVEN IF YOU WT IS MORE THAN 200LBS. RESISTANCE IS SMOOTH THRU-OUT THE PEDALLING CIRCLE=SMOOTH SPIN FEEL, PORTABLE AT 20LBS, QUIET, I CAN HEAR MY WIFE YELL AT ME, VERY STABLE PLATFORM EVEN FOR HILL TRAINING , MONEY BACK GARANTEE, AND WARRANY IS EXCELLENT
Weaknesses:
NONE NOTED
Similar Products Used:
DEMO CYCLOPS, NOT IMPRESSED W FEEL
Bike Setup:
SEVEN MUSE, ULTEGRA COMPONENTS
Bottom Line:
EXCELLENT WORKMANSHIP, PRICED RIGHT IN THE MARKET OF HI END CYCLOPS MODELS, BUT MUCH BETTER FOR PRICE, GOOD SMOOTH RESISTANCE ALMOST SPIN LIKE QUALITY, LOOKS AND ACTS "HEAVY DUTY" BUT ONLY WIEGHS 20LBS, NO WELDS,STABLE WHEN STANDING UP ON BIKE TO HILL CLIMB, BUT I HARDLY EVER DO THAT!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian Walsh
a Racer
from Dubuque, IA 52002 Date Reviewed: December 22, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$289.00
Purchased At:
Free Flight
Strengths:
I am a bike shop owner and I have 1up trainers in my store. The 1up Trainer is by far the best trainer out there in my opinion. It provides the widest range of resistance of any trainer I have ever used. The trainer is beautiful! It’s deep blue and silver anodized aluminum frame is impressive. It even has the 1up trainer logo machined right into the frame. There are no gaudy welds anywhere; in fact the trainer is weld free. The trainer is very stable and there is no play at all where the axle cups grab the quick release. The foot operated quick release makes bike loading really quick. It has a large 3-inch roller, and it is the quietest trainer I have seen yet. One of the really nifty features is the telescoping front legs. This allows you to lower the rear wheel down to the floor for level training (no riser block needed). It also has vertical adjustability for the axle height. Any size bicycle from 16 inch and up will work with no additional attachments necessary. It folds down smaller than the other trainers and it even comes fully assembled ready to use. I can sell this trainer without having to assembling it.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
I sell CycleOps Fluid 2 and all other CycleOps trainers and the full line of Minoura trainers.
Bike Setup:
I demo my store bikes on it because it rides so smooth and is so quick and easy to mount a bike on.
Bottom Line:
This trainer has every feature imaginable. Its quality is second to none. When you first look at it, you think it would cost about $600 instead of $299. With a lifetime guarantee on anything that breaks or wears out, you can’t go wrong with this trainer. Frankly speaking, having seen all the other trainers, I think this trainer is at another level above its competition.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan
a Racer
from Denver, CO, USA Date Reviewed: December 21, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Manufacturer Direct
Strengths:
Great setup, superb road feel, the quietest trainer I've seen, good construction
Similar Products Used:
Computrainer, Blackburn trainer, graber trainer, tackx trainer, performance trainer, NA\ashbar trainer, cyclops, you name it and I've used it, just about.
Bottom Line:
This is the best trainer that I have ever used. I first saw it at Interbike and was impressed but since I have been using it, I can't use another trainer again. There are 3 things that set this thing apart from the rest. The first thing is that it is quiet. The mechanism makes no audible sound - all you hear is the chain on the cogs. The second is that the trainer mimics the road so well you can do an accurate workout on your trainer just like on the road. When you start up on it, there is none of that "grabby" feeling the other trainers have. The third thing is the setup. I have an uneven basement and I adjusted the legs of the trainer to fit. It is the only one that's like that. By the way, I am a full time racer and I plan on taking this trainer with me everywhere next year for warming up. I used to warm up on rollers because a lot of trainers don't feel like the road so you can't ride slowly if you need it, which I like to do if I use it at the track. This trainer you can ride as slow as you want and you don't feel that ridiculous pulling and slipping on the tire that other trainers have. This year I dragged rollers all the way to the World Championships but next year I will only carry this trainer
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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