Ok, I did a search, and re-read through the threads and didn't see the answer to my question.... I just purchased a mag trainer ( I tried the fluids they had for demo, and just liked the mag better) My question is: do you guys put on a different wheel when using the trainer? I've heard that they can burn through your tires more, so I was wondering if it would be worthwhile to buy a cheap wheel and tire to swap onto the bike when using the trainer.
I swap out the tire and the skewer, but use the same wheel. Of course, once the weather changes up here, you're pretty much indoors for a few months, so there isn't the need to swap back and forth. Maybe where you are it would be worth getting a wheel to make the swap easier (although changing tires is pretty easy too).
I do because my best rr wheel(light weight AmClassic CR420s) has higher end lighter race tires and a Duraace cassette(largest cogs are titanium). A 2nd string wheel combo saves a ton of wear on these parts. Lighter highend spinning parts offer no benefit on a trainer. Just wearing it out for nothing, basically(assuming you have an option of a 2nd wheel combo).
Continental makes a few trainer tires that you may want to check out, Ive found they are quieter and slip less so less heat buildup. They are a good bit stiffer and a real pita to mount. I had to take mine to the LBS for mounting.
Highly recomended. I put about 700 miles on my rollers every winter and the Conti trainer tires have lasted me 6 years and show no signs of wear. They are mounted on a super heavy Shimano 105 wheelset for added resistance. Check with the local bike shops as I picked up the wheels for $40 as they were removed from a customer's bike, and the person didn't want them.
At a minimum, I would get a trainer tire. You'll definitely burn through your tires on the trainer. I think Nashbar actually has one on sale right now.