Originally posted by MarkinSoCal
With the monarch you can set a specific load of resistance (i.e. 4 kg. load) unlike most spin bikes that I've seen that you can increase the resistance but it is not a specific amount.
We use them in the lab for this very reason, but no one likes riding them as they are so different from a 'real bike'. So far I have yet to find anyone that enjoys riding them for more than a few minutes (although we do ask people to ride them for hours). For training, I don't think the way the power is controled is very flexible as you need to change cadence or weights to change power. You almost certainly will need an assistant!
Originally posted by MarkinSoCal
At the cycling clinic where we've been using these ergometers you can simulate climbs or do intervals and then gradually increase your load/resistance as your fitness improves using it in conjuction with your heart rate monitor. This makes for some intense indoor training sessions in which your performance and improvement under various loads can be tracked very accurately. My (limited) experience with trainers is that this is not as easy to do and/or not as specific.
You can do this on a turbo trainer too, but obviously can't take into account power unless you have a power meter on your bike. On a trainer most people change the resistance by changing gear or using the variable resistance on the trainer if it has variable resistance. Get some big fans so that you don't overheat and use a HR to limit/guide exercise intensity.
Originally posted by MarkinSoCal
Also, I worry that I'm abusing my bike frame when I'm hammering away on a trainer.
For the cost of a monarch, you might be able to get a second bike and turbo trainer. That would be better value for money!!! I think there was a discussion on this (i.e. effect of trainer on your bike) in the equipment section a long time ago.
Originally posted by MarkinSoCal
I agree your position will not be as exact as on your own bike but that's why I spend time on the rollers. I guess I feel like I'm most interested in improving my strength and condition vs. being on my own bike and being in proper position.
Remember that training is specific, that means specific joint angles and velocities as well as exercise mode. With a turbo trainer you will be able to develop condition and be in your position all at the same time! (You're unlikely to develop strength on a bike; read the strength training thread about this).
Originally posted by MarkinSoCal
(1) Does this make any sense or should I just ride a trainer like everybody else? (2) Am I not using the Monarch as it was intended? (3) What exactly is it intended for?
(1) If I were you I'd test a few trainers and buy the one I liked.
(2) No
(3) Its mean't for use in exercise labs and clinical settings where people need specific power outputs and the bikes need to be calibrated with a degree of accuarcy. Other training aids would be more versatile. Have you looked at a computrainer or similar? These can simulate rides from track races to stages of the tour de france!!!