I’m new to the frame-building hobby and have just made a single frame so far during a two week course. I bought a jig and brazing equipment, so will be starting to make a few frames now. I’m thinking of building a steel frame specifically to use with my turbo trainer as a practice frame, like the new Zwift frame, but home built. I’m wondering if anyone’s made a steel frame specifically for their turbo trainer or has any advice?
Thanks a million!
What about Zwift trainers, WRT frame design, is different from what you have already made? The last couple of fixed gear frames I’ve made were mostly used on rollers with no change from “standard” geometry choices. Some trainers shift the “horizontal” of the bike and for some riders this might be an aspect to consider. The other obvious aspect is the stand/frame interface method. I don’t have experience with current trainers and don’t track the through axle wheel mounting standards and how they control frame design. Mounting options for water bottles and entertainment (computers and such) might be different from a traditional road bike too. But as the maker you get to choose what you think works for you. Andy
I thought about it, but I got a cheap aluminum frame instead. The one feature that held me up is that I want to be able to move the handlebars even though there is no front wheel. The zwift design just extends the head tube to the floor. Other than that design consideration, I’m not sure there is anything special I would do. In fact, it might make more sense just to make a “fork” that doesn’t take a wheel and build a regular frame.
I think I understand. Back in the early days of turbo trainers a design that held the bike via the forks (like a roof rack for your car does) which locked the handle bars from moving. A design I never liked riding myself.
I’ll put a vote for a trainer bike that retains as much real bike capacity as possible, no telling what use/trainer/future needs will evolve. Andy