SPEEDBIKE

Originally developed in the 1970s for professional cyclists to support their winter training, speed bikes are now much more than simple fitness equipment or exercise bikes. Their distinctive, slim design sets them apart from conventional exercise bikes and gives them a sportier and more dynamic look.

This special look is reflected not only in the way it looks, but also in the way it rides. Speed ​​bikes offer a more intense and road bike-like riding experience that allows you to enjoy real cycling training from the comfort of your own home. Especially on cold winter evenings, when you're watching a stage of the Tour de France on TV, it almost feels like you're part of the peloton.

The extraordinary riding experience that characterizes speed bikes is the result of various technical features. From the heavy flywheel system that ensures a consistent pedal stroke, to the rotating pedals and the individually adjustable settings for the perfect racing bike position - a speed bike for the home leaves nothing to be desired and ensures an authentic training feeling.

Indoor cycles are specially designed for athletic training requirements, but at the same time offer numerous adjustment options. The saddle in particular is significantly narrower than on classic exercise bikes, which underlines the athletic character. These devices are ideal for committed recreational athletes as well as for cycling enthusiasts who train regularly.

For occasional users who are looking for greater comfort or prefer a more relaxed riding style, a high-quality exercise bike is the better choice. Once you have decided on an indoor cycle, you should pay attention to the following features:

Drive system:
There are two common types of drive systems. Simple models are often equipped with a chain drive, as found on classic road bikes. The disadvantage of a chain drive is its noise and the need for regular maintenance, such as lubrication and cleaning.

Higher-quality indoor cycles, on the other hand, usually use a belt drive, which is quieter and requires less maintenance. These belts are often made of robust plastics or Kevlar, which makes them particularly durable and quiet.

Braking system:
The resistance that you have to overcome is usually created by a felt shoe brake that exerts pressure on the flywheel. The resistance can be easily adjusted using an adjustment mechanism. In higher price ranges, magnetic brake systems can be found that are even more precise and durable.

It's important to know that speed bikes don't have an idle, which means the flywheel keeps turning even when you stop pedaling, so many high-end models have an emergency braking feature.

Setting options:
For ergonomic training, it is important that the speed bike can be individually adjusted to your body size and training position. Make sure there are a variety of adjustment options. The saddle should be adjustable in height, position and angle of inclination to ensure optimal power transmission.

The handlebars should also be adjustable in height and angle, which is particularly helpful during longer training sessions. Different handlebar positions allow for relief of the muscles and increase training variety.

Tip: Some models allow you to replace the saddle with a standard bicycle saddle, so you can choose the saddle that is most comfortable for you.

pedal system:
Since speed bikes have no freewheel, a solid connection between the pedals and the feet is required. This is ensured by pedals with pedal straps or pedal baskets, which allows for a smooth pedal stroke and better use of the leg muscles.

High-quality models often offer hybrid pedals that offer both a flat side and a Shimano SPD or SPD-SL clipless system. This means you can use your usual cycling shoes, or you can mount conventional road bike pedals with a clipless system.

Electronic systems:
Modern indoor cycles are usually equipped with electronic systems. These range from simple training computers with hand pulse sensors to advanced models with heart rate belt support and multimedia integration.

Interactive training computers often offer Bluetooth connectivity and allow you to connect to fitness apps such as iBiking+. This allows you to follow routes from Google Street View during your workout and make your training even more varied.

Buying a speed bike and just starting may seem tempting, but that is not enough to achieve long-term training success. Targeted training that takes important parameters such as heart rate and wattage into account is crucial to achieving optimal results.

Tip: Many models of speed bikes with standard crank threads can be retrofitted with a pedal power meter, which enables watt-controlled training. Some advanced models even have integrated power measurement systems.

The most effective way to control your training is to use a heart rate monitor. Heart rate helps you work in the right training zones, which vary depending on your training goal.

Regeneration training (below 60% of maximum heart rate): This low-intensity training is used for active recovery after more intensive sessions and can last between 40 minutes and 3 hours.

GA1 zone (60-75% of maximum heart rate): This is the optimal training area for fat burning and endurance building, with a training duration of 45 minutes to 3 hours.

GA2 zone (75-85% of maximum heart rate): More intense endurance training to increase performance and strengthen the cardiovascular system, usually between 20 and 60 minutes.

Development zone (85-95% of maximum heart rate): Very intense interval training combined with the GA1 and GA2 phases to achieve peak performance.

Important: The generally accepted rules of thumb for determining maximum heart rate only provide rough values ​​that can vary by 15-20 beats up or down. Ambitious athletes should therefore consider professional performance diagnostics from a sports doctor. Independent performance tests are only recommended for experienced athletes who know their bodies well and know how to deal with high levels of stress.

If you are looking for the perfect speed bike, then JASPORT is the ideal place to buy. Thanks to our practical filter options, you can search specifically for brands and important features. This means that recreational and hobby athletes of every level can quickly find the speed bike that exactly meets their personal requirements.

For beginners, we offer particularly inexpensive models that provide an ideal introduction to the world of indoor cycling. Advanced cyclists will get their money's worth with our more powerful speed bikes. These are characterized by a larger flywheel mass and advanced training functions that make training more varied and effective.

For those who have even higher demands on their training, there is the JASPORT G1M Plus bike or professional indoor bikes that even offer the possibility of riding virtual routes in multiplayer mode.