With another snowstorm upon us, the offseason is now officially on. I sincerely enjoy indoor training when it’s high intensity. But longer and easier rides… not so much. So, I was thinking about what can I do to make them suck less, and the idea of aerobars came to my mind. Full disclosure: I’ve never ridden aerobars before, in or outdoor. And I’m not necessarily planning to.
Hence, the question: Can anyone please confirm or deny, based on your N=1 experience, if aerobars would make it any better? Thanks.
I bought clip-ons for this purpose two years ago (road bike). Since the saddle is still the road bike saddle, the position in the aero bars is okeyish for around 20 minutes. It‘s just a different position to have a bit of variety.
I didn‘t put them on this year and yet don‘t miss them (but I will add them). Long rides can be made tolerable with interesting entertainment and regular brakes.
There are cheap clip-ons for around 50€, if you want to try.
3 or 4 years ago I did the Traditional Base, High Volume plan and I specifically put my TT bike on the trainer for it. Despite having a very low, aero position, it is also my most comfortable position by far.
Definitely made longer days in the saddle more comfortable. The key will be to get a position that you are comfortable in.
Absolutely can recommend this. And if you don’t care practicing being aero for long outdoor rides, then you can add as much stackers as you want for even more comfort. I am using 10cm + set ~25* angle.
I use aero bars outside all the time. I have them on the trainer and basically never use them lol. Even >3-4h rides. Don’t need them for aero because there is no aero inside. Don’t need them for comfort because that only comes into play for me after 8-12h on the bike.
What aspects of long trainer rides make them suck for you?
I thought about doing this but haven’t gotten around to trying it yet I have some clip-ons I could quickly put on the dedicated trainer bike. The only downside is I’ll have to move the trainer desk further away to clear them.
Thanks everyone for the feedback. I’ve found a good local deal ($40) on heavily used Profile Design T2+ and pulled the trigger. Will report back in a few days.
I suppose the honest answer is “undiagnosed ADHD.” Intervals keep me engaged, and time flies by, but endurance rides leave too much space in my brain, which starts concerning itself with arm fatigue and whatnot. It’s not a bike fit issue - I have that pretty well dialed. Aerobars can’t be a cure, but maybe they will help to reduce the symptoms. We’ll see.
