For many longtime cyclists, the name CycleOps carries a sense of familiarity—memories of winter base miles, early-morning intervals, and some of the most reliable indoor trainers ever built. And while the branding on those yellow-accented units may look different today, the philosophy behind them hasn’t changed at all.
At Saris, the heritage of CycleOps remains an important part of who we are. This post highlights that evolution and helps riders understand how today’s Saris indoor trainers continue the same commitment to quality, innovation, and ride feel that made CycleOps a household name.
A Look Back: The CycleOps Heritage
The original CycleOps trainers were built with a simple mission:
Make indoor training feel better, last longer, and work for every rider.
Over the years, that mission produced some of the industry’s most recognizable trainers, including:
- The Fluid² wheel-on trainer
- The Magneto magnetic-resistance trainer
- Early power-measuring and electronically-controlled models
- Smart trainers that connected cyclists to virtual ride experiences
As the indoor cycling world grew rapidly—with new apps, new expectations, and new performance standards—the need for a unified, future-focused brand became clear. That’s when CycleOps officially united under the Saris brand.
Why the Name Changed—But the Vision Didn’t
When our indoor trainer line transitioned fully to the Saris name, the goal was simple:
Bring all cycling innovation under one identity.
By building trainers, racks, and infrastructure with the same shared purpose, we can push forward more intentionally—continuing the craftsmanship, technology, and support that riders valued in CycleOps while expanding what’s possible with modern indoor training.
Even today, many riders still refer to their older trainers as “CycleOps” models. We see that as a sign of trust in the products that built the foundation for where we are now.
What Today’s Riders Can Expect from Saris Trainers
Whether you're returning to indoor training, upgrading from an older setup, or exploring options for the first time, the current Saris trainer lineup is designed to meet riders where they are—just as CycleOps did.
Smart Trainers
• Saris H3 Plus Direct Drive Smart Trainer
For riders looking for quiet, accuracy, and realistic resistance simulation. This is our premium direct-drive platform—ideal for long winter training blocks or year-round structured workouts.
A reliable wheel-on smart trainer built for everyday athletes. With integrated speed, cadence, and power data, the M2 offers a strong balance of value and performance.
Classic Wheel-On Trainers
A modern continuation of the model that helped define the indoor-trainer category. Smooth, consistent, and ideal for riders upgrading from older wheel-on systems.
Simple, durable, and easy to set up—the perfect choice for riders who prefer a straightforward magnetic-resistance trainer.
Coming From an Older CycleOps Model? Here’s What to Know
Many riders still find or use legacy CycleOps units—Fluid², JetFluid, Mag+, Mag, and more. If you’re considering a refresh or simply wondering how your current setup compares, here’s a quick guide:
1. Ride Feel & Accuracy Have Evolved
Modern Saris trainers deliver quieter performance, smoother resistance transitions, and significantly improved power accuracy*(smart models*).
2. Compatibility Has Expanded
Through-axles, disc brakes, and virtual training platforms are now standard. Our trainers are designed to support this new generation of bikes and software.
3. Support Is Streamlined
Whether your trainer says CycleOps or Saris, our support team is here to help—just under a unified name.
4. Upgrading Feels Natural
Many riders find that moving from a legacy CycleOps unit to the M2 or H3 Plus feels familiar—just more capable and more connected.
Where the Legacy Lives On
CycleOps shaped an important era of indoor cycling, and we are proud to continue that legacy. Every Saris trainer—from our classic wheel-on models to our latest smart platforms—carries forward the same principles of durability, ride quality, and innovation.
Explore What’s New
If you’ve used a CycleOps trainer in the past—or still have one in your training space—you’ll feel right at home exploring what Saris has built since then.
Browse the latest Saris Indoor Trainers: