There is one glaring issue with indoor bike trainers, and that is the noise. Due to the fact you are running a fly wheel across a tyre, you are unfortunately going to make a noise.
Some turbo trainers are louder, or more noticeable than others. We thought why not come up with a few tips on how to make indoor bike trainers quieter.
These range from quick wins, to more expensive, or more drastic measures. Check through each idea, and see which of them can work for you.
Indoor Mats & Flooring
Depending on the flooring you have set up, some can be louder than others. For example hardwood floors, or concrete can be a lot louder than a carpeted floor.
Usually because the carpet absorbs some of the noise that can travel through the turbo trainer. We have found that utilising either mats (a bit like a Yoga mat), or more expensive cushioned floors.
The gym flooring is a little heavy hitting, and can cost around £20 per set of 4 (you will probably need 8 to get set up). But are designed to cushion and dampen the noise as much as possible.
They also require edging, as a lot of them are not brilliant for being put in the middle of rooms. They usually don't have a non-slip underside, so they can move unless locked into place. Usually not a huge problem, but always worth keeping in mind.
A cheaper option, and one we have done before is the use of mats. Either a specific 'bike mat' that are a little thinner than other options. Or, if you want a generic one, then a foam mat with a non-slip coating works wonders. A yoga mat also works, but they can be a little thick.
Either of these options should work really well, as they help reduce the vibrations and the noise.
Swapping To A Fluid Trainer
If you are using a standard magnetic ride, you will usually find that they are a lot louder and more disruptive than a fluid trainer.
This is a more expensive upgrade than say mats, but you may get a better ride out of it as well. The difference between a fluid and magnetic ride turbo doesn't have to be huge. You can find some decent fluid rides, without breaking the bank.
Moving To The Ground Floor
This trick won't work for everyone. For example if you live in a flat or apartment, or you simply don't have the room.
Having a turbo trainer set up on an elevated floor can really increase the noise and vibration. Especially as the floorboards and floor below can move and shake when cycling.
If possible, move the bike to a ground floor room, you will be surprised how easily they can be set up in a living room or study without taking up a ton of room.
Sound Proof The Walls
Ok, hear us out. We don't mean adding tons of expensive soundproofing to a whole room.
We mean adding a few buffers to a study wall or maybe a spare bedroom. A few sound dampening or sound proofing blocks on the wall can make a big difference.
As well as dampening the noise in the room, you can save your neighbours ears with some well placed panels.
You can find a variety of different styles, and colours. Allowing you to make a bit of a feature. Costing around £40 or so for a pack.
Other options include adding a few pictures, or maybe a decorate rug on the wall. Sounds silly, but those castle owners where onto something...
Conclusion
Can you think of ways to make your indoor bike trainer quiet? Other than just moving your turbo trainer to the shed outside, or the garage.
A decent mat, with maybe 1 or 2 panels on the wall will usually work quite well. Of course, if you are looking at spending money on those accessories, it can usually make more sense to go for a decent fluid trainer. The noise reduction and smoother ride can make a huge difference.
Let us know of your secret noise reducing hacks.