Does it matter? If so, how much?

Nothing really matters except the power reading.

Self select your normal cadence and put the bike into a gear that will give you the desired power output, or increase the slope on the trainer.

To answer your question, I'd say that you'd better focus on generating watts using a self selected cadence. One that feels comfortable.

Big or small chain ring? The faster your backwheel spins, the better it is. So you're probably better training on the big ring.

SolarEnergy said:

To answer your question, I'd say that you'd better focus on generating watts using a self selected cadence. One that feels comfortable.

Big or small chain ring? The faster your backwheel spins, the better it is. So you're probably better training on the big ring.

Yup. I'll "second" the above. 🙂

Power yes but to some extent consider the specific nature of your event and whether there are special demands that need to be considered in your training, such as:

Riding position, e.g. a TT or a pursuit. You may need some time to adapt to a new riding position as power output may not be the same at first.

Specific force/leg speed requirements (e.g. MTB or crits) that you might need to also consider when determining how to ensure adequate adaptations for the demands of those specific events.

(I've never really thought bumping up the front of a bike on a trainer simulated climbing anyway but that's another debate I ain't getting into.)

Thanks for the info.

In my relatively short time on my trainer, I've discovered it's much easier for me to generate higher watt averages over different durations when I'm climbing (ie in small chain ring and low gear on, say an 8% grade) versus on flat ground (big chain ring in high gear). I've heard that one is using more muscles when climbing so that is reason for the increased wattage readings. If this incorrect, can someone please explain what's going on here?? Thanks...