I’m looking at options for a turbo or roller setup for warm ups before events (TT and Crit). The roller with fork stand look far and few between and quite expensive, and a few of the older ones appear to be skewer compatible only and not for thru axle forks.
The other thought is a cheap direct drive trainer, which would have to function without power. Is this realistic and does it work? Which is a good budget option for carrying in the car to the events which doesn’t weigh a lot? (e.g. My home based Kickr V5 is pretty hefty!)
I’d go with a direct-drive trainer. Most work fine without power for warm-ups, and they’re usually more stable and convenient at events than rollers. Plus, one less thing to worry about before a race.
I mean you have to learn how to use rollers. But I loved them. It was so easy just to hop off and not have to mess with anything. Just one less stress on race day. Put the bike on. Warm up. Jump off. Roll to the line. But idk if they are for everyone.
FWIW: My Saris H3 provides virtually no resistance without being plugged in. IDK about other direct drive smart trainers, but I think there are some that do provide resistance without being plugged in. The old wheel-on dumb turbo trainers were traditionally used for warmups and can still work well, but you may want to use a spare wheel and tire rather than the wheel with your race tire on it.
