The Blackburn Tech Mag 3 Trainer is their least expensive unit, but that doesn't mean that it lacks in performance or quality. Most notably, Blackburn employs a three-position magnetic resistance unit that's similar to the high-powered assembly in the Tech Mag Race, though you won't get a handlebar-mounted remote lever here. But when you think about it, you'll most likely have a ride plan in mind before you throw your leg over your bike. Just set the level from one to three, and once riding, your gear changes aboard the bike will give you plenty of variability in the resistance for your ride.

Rather than a lever throw to tighten the trainer against the rear skewer, Blackburn uses threaded rods that run through the trainer frame, allowing you to center the rear wheel easily. Once your left side is set, the bike can be held in place and the right side T-handle snugs the skewer in place. While it's not as fast as their FastCrank system, it is similar in that it lets you tighten the rear wheel into the trainer with a better feel for the compression against the hub, without overtightening it.

The Blackburn Tech Mag 3 Trainer has a welded frame made of tubular steel for long lasting durability. It folds out to provide a sturdy base for your bike, and it rests on plastic, non-skid feet. It works for road and mountain bikes.