Carbon frame on indoor trainer - good idea?

[Ed Slovenkay]

Since daylight is evaporating the inevitable basement bike workouts on the trainer are here. This summer I upgraded my road bike from an aluminum Cannondale to a carbon Trek Madone. While pedaling some moderately hard efforts, I noticed the seatpost flexing side to side as I pedal. I began to think maybe riding this bike on the trainer is not such a good idea.

There seems to be mixed opinions on the various forums. Anyone have a comment or advice on whether it is a good idea to ride a carbon frame on an indoor trainer? I had not noticed any flex while riding the P2 indoors in the past so never paid any attention to it.

[ebanks2]

I am guessing it is more a factor of the 400 watts you are pushing as opposed to the frame material.

[chuckm]

I've always had more than one bike, and never felt comfortable putting the "good" bike on the trainer.

[Aussie Rob]

It's a madone, of course it flexes

Seriously though, ive never heard of a carbon frame failure from riding it on the trainer. Easiest way to put your mind to rest is to contact Trek and ask if it voids the warranty. If not, ride on! If you're lucky it'll break in a couple of years and you get a free upgrade!

[sidmcmahon]

Aussie
I just bought a Madone 3.1 a few weeks ago. What are you saying?

Sid

[Aussie Rob]

Nothing Sid, Madones are fine bikes....i was just cracking a joke.

Shoulda come and seen me though!