We review a new product from KOM Cycling – which is actually a new take on an old favorite. Their Indoor Trainer Block provides a sturdy base and three ride heights, and adds a rubberized bottom to protect your floors from scratches. At a price that’s equal-or-less than well-known competitors, it’s a worthwhile investment for those in need of front wheel stabilization.
Review: KOM Cycling Indoor Trainer Block
Not every piece of equipment we review is high-tech or high-priced, because some (many?) things are better off uncomplicated. KOM Cycling seems to have that as their ethos, and their Indoor Trainer Block is simply meant to provide a stable base for your front wheel when used in conjunction with an indoor trainer.
The device works like most in this category – three heights help accommodate different wheel sizes or desired ride heights. The three channels have a tapered width, and can accommodate anything from narrow road tires to large 29er MTB tires. Fat bike tires won’t fit… but if you’re riding a fat bike on a trainer, this block is the least of your worries that we need to discuss.
The key differentiation that KOM makes compared to the competition is a trio of webbed rubber grips. I have an old Saris riser block that works fine in general, but it has sharp plastic edges on the bottom that would scratch wood floors. However, I do normally use a rubber trainer mat under my bike – to avoid having to clean up sweaty floors and avoid the possibility of chain lube or grease coming off the bike and causing a mess.
I live in a rental with fake wood floors, so I was less than worried about skipping the rubber mat to test this trainer block. Indeed, it provided a secure, slip-free base for my front wheel, with no unwanted rotation even under hard efforts. On the negative side, it didn’t cook dinner for me or save me a bundle on my car insurance… which is totally lame, and I expect to see added to version 2.0.
At $26.99, the Indoor Trainer Block is the same price or cheaper than non-rubberized competition of otherwise similar design, making it an easy buy for cyclists looking to get into indoor riding (and is a heck of an upgrade over using an old phone book… which I know from experience). It’s available for purchase now in black or blue color options.
