This is my very first experience with a trainer. I always hated the idea of using a trainer, but I got it anyway to deal with the crazy amount of rain we got this winter in Nor Cal. I conducted extensive online research and decided on this trainer and I'm glad I did.
I really like the clean, functional European design. I LOVE the fact that it came with a front wheel riser block. (It's a separate purchase with other brands). The set up was very easy, it was very quiet, and the ride feel was fine for simulating riding the flats (more on this later). I use it with Garmin 800 and the trainer transmits power, cadence and speed data to it. The base is also very stable, no rocking at all. I can get out of the saddle and spin away just fine ( I'm 5' 7 at 135 LBS)
It has a cable activated manual, 10-level resistance lever but I haven't explored this feature much. The times I've tried to simulate hill climbing by increasing the resistance, the wheel sometimes slipped and felt unnatural. For the interval training I do, I put the level on 3.5 and change resistance by shifting gears.
If you want to get into a smart trainer but don't want to break the bank, this one is a great option. An unexpected benefit for me was the power data. It really got me to smooth out my spinning technique to get more and consistent power output.
