Can You Adjust the Resistance on the Saris Mag+ Bike Trainer While Riding?

Published 11/10/2026

Question:

Winter is coming, and I'm trying to figure out how to keep riding without having to buy a whole exercise bike. I've already got a road bike with 700c wheels, so I was looking at the Saris Mag+ Bike Trainer # SA9902T. What I'm wondering is how the resistance works. Can I make pedaling harder or easier while I'm riding, like when I'm going up a hill, or do I have to get off the bike to adjust something? I'd also like to know if this thing folds up because I don't have a whole lot of extra space in my apartment.

asked by: Derek

Expert Reply:

Hey Derek! Yes, you can adjust the resistance on the Saris Mag+ Bike Trainer # SA9902T while you're riding, and you don't have to get off your bike to do it! It comes with a shifter that mounts right on your handlebars, giving you five different resistance levels. So if you want to make your workout a little tougher, just move the shifter up a setting. When you're ready to take it easy, move it back down. There's even an off setting if you want to pedal without the added resistance.

Your 700c wheels are also within the trainer's supported sizes. One thing I like about this trainer is that it uses magnetic resistance, so once you choose a setting, the resistance stays consistent until you change it. And yes, the legs fold up when you're finished, making it easy to tuck away in a closet or under your bed instead of having exercise equipment sitting out all winter. Does your road bike have a traditional quick release rear wheel or a thru axle?

expert reply by: Heather A