Minoura LR340 Trainer review

Minoura has a great track record when it comes to turbos, being instrumental in the development of magnetic trainers for over a quarter of a century. The Minoura LR340 sits second up in the company's five-model magnetic resistance range, and is apparently aimed at the 'enthusiast'.

Resistance is variable and controlled by a handlebar mounted wired dial, giving seven different levels. Although there is a noticeable jump in between, you do get a good overall range. The pedalling experience is good, with a consistent resistance all around the pedal stroke, giving the feeling that you’re pedalling in circles, rather than just stomping up and down. It’s quiet too with a distinct lack of vibration.

>>>Buyer's guide to turbo trainers

At only 5.9kg and with a small footprint, stability did suffer: on a smooth tile floor it did move around under big out of the saddle efforts, however, the trainer still holds the bike securely with a simple wind in mechanism. For something that needs to be tough we were concerned that some parts felt a little cheap and didn’t inspire confidence in longevity.

The company's Live Training app can be used in conjunction with the MInoura LR340, giving you the option of virtual training, although you will need to shell out at least another £100 for additional peripherals, and it will only work on Apple devices. Minoura has calibrated the trainer to the speed of your back wheel, giving you a power output. Accuracy is claimed to vary between +/-5%. The Live Training app incorporates many different workouts, and you can even upload a course you’ve ridden and saved as a GPX file, or interact with Sufferfest workouts (one of which is included). The app then prompts you when to change gear to apply more resistance.

>>>Why self-torture on the turbo trainer is a necessary evil

If you’re looking for something to travel with or for warming up at races, it’s ease of use, light weight and small dimensions do make it worth considering. For regular hard training you’ll want something more substantial, or look to the Minoura ‘Professional’ range.

Visit the Zyro website for more details.