Indoor cycling has seen a surge in popularity, particularly during the global pandemic when outdoor activities became restricted. Amid this growth, cyclists encountered the unique challenges of indoor training, which differed significantly from their outdoor rides. One avid cyclist, Albert Knowles, recognized these challenges firsthand and turned them into an opportunity for innovation. The result was the creation of Velocity Rockers, a company dedicated to improving the indoor cycling experience by introducing rocker plates that add much-needed motion and comfort. This article explores Albert Knowles’ journey and how Velocity Rockers is reshaping the way cyclists train indoors.
Albert Knowles’ Journey: A Cyclist’s Challenge Leads to Innovation
Albert Knowles, a passionate cyclist from San Diego, California, found himself spending more time on indoor cycling during the pandemic. Like many indoor cyclists, he quickly discovered the downsides of prolonged, static indoor rides—notably, saddle sores. The lack of movement on standard indoor trainers caused friction and discomfort, taking away the joy of cycling.
As an avid and resourceful cyclist, Knowles wasn’t one to let discomfort dictate his training. He turned to online communities where DIY rocker plates were gaining attention. A rocker plate, designed to introduce side-to-side and forward and backward movement during indoor cycling, promised relief from the static nature of stationary trainers. After experimenting with DIY designs, Knowles identified a market gap: commercially available rocker plates were rare, and none provided the level of quality and comfort he envisioned and was able to produce for himself. This sparked the creation of Velocity Rockers in 2021.
The Birth of Velocity Rockers: A Solution to Indoor Cycling Discomfort
Velocity Rockers was founded with a clear mission: to enhance the indoor cycling experience through motion. The first product to emerge was the Velocity Rocker, a simple yet effective rocker plate designed to address the primary issue facing cyclists—saddle friction.
Knowles’ early designs were driven by personal necessity, but as word spread, he realized that countless other cyclists were experiencing the same discomfort. His solution was to create a commercial product that anyone could use and set up in their own home. By providing a rocker plate that introduced smooth side-to-side and fore/aft motion, cyclists could reduce friction, alleviate saddle sores, and enjoy longer, more comfortable rides.
From the Velocity Rocker to the Delta RS: Continuous Improvement
Building on the success of the original Velocity Rocker, Knowles didn’t stop there. In response to feedback from cyclists, he developed the Delta RS—a more advanced version designed to accommodate all types of indoor cycling setups, from road bikes and mountain bikes on indoor smart trainers to smart and spin bikes of all types. The Delta RS offered improved stability and motion, and compatibility with a wider range of cycling equipment.
One of the key features of the Delta RS is its versatility. Unlike many rocker plates that cater to specific trainers, the Delta RS can adapt to different setups, making it an attractive option for both recreational and competitive cyclists. The materials used in production are another highlight—each product is made from high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity. With the Delta RS, Velocity Rockers has solidified its position as a leader in the indoor cycling industry.
The Benefits of Adding Motion to Indoor Cycling
Static indoor cycling can strain the body in ways that outdoor cycling does not. One of the common complaints among indoor cyclists is the discomfort caused by long rides on stationary trainers, where the bike remains rigid and the rider’s body bears the brunt of the pressure. Rocker plates, like the ones produced by Velocity Rockers, introduce natural motion to indoor cycling, mimicking the dynamic movements of outdoor rides.
This added motion brings a number of benefits to indoor cyclists:
- Reduced Saddle Friction: The gentle rocking motion helps to keep the rider’s sit bones in place on the saddle, which significantly reduces the friction otherwise experienced on a static saddle. This can prevent or alleviate saddle sores, a common issue among long-distance cyclists.
- Improved Comfort: By introducing natural movement, riders experience a better alignment of the leg and core muscles activated during each pedal stroke, such as those connected to the knees, hips and lower back. This leads to greater comfort, particularly during extended sessions.
- Enhanced Core Engagement: The slight side-to-side motion requires riders to engage their core muscles more than on a static trainer. This can lead to better overall fitness and strength, especially for cyclists looking to improve their performance.
- More Realistic Training: One of the major benefits of using rocker plates is that the motion is similar to outdoor riding. The roll and surge motions of the bike on a rocker plate gives indoor cyclists a more realistic riding experience, which can translate into improved handling and stability when transitioning back to outdoor cycling.
Passion Behind the Brand: Customer-Centric Innovation
From the start, Velocity Rockers has focused on providing not only high-quality products but also outstanding customer service. Albert Knowles’ vision was not just to solve his own discomfort but to provide a solution for the entire indoor cycling community. His personal involvement in the development process ensures that every product meets the high standards he sets for himself as a cyclist.
Customer feedback plays a crucial role in the evolution of Velocity Rockers’ products. From the original Velocity Rocker to the refined Delta RS, each iteration is driven by real-world use and cyclist input. This approach allows the brand to continuously improve its offerings, ensuring that every rocker plate provides optimal comfort and performance.
The company’s commitment to its customers is further exemplified by its superb customer service. Whether it’s helping customers choose the right product for their setup or addressing any issues that arise, Velocity Rockers ensures that cyclists have the support they need to maximize their indoor training experience.
Made in the USA: Craftsmanship and Quality
One of the core values of Velocity Rockers is its commitment to producing high-quality products in the United States. By keeping production local, the company is able to maintain strict quality control and ensure that every rocker plate meets the highest standards. This dedication to craftsmanship is one of the reasons why Velocity Rockers has gained a loyal following in the cycling community.
The materials used in the production of each rocker plate are carefully selected for their durability and performance. The result is a product that not only enhances comfort but also withstands the rigors of daily use. Cyclists can trust that a rocker plate by Velocity Rockers will stand the test of time, providing a reliable and effective solution for their indoor training needs.
Velocity Rockers: A Brand Built on Passion
Velocity Rockers was born out of one cyclist’s determination to improve his own indoor training experience, but it has grown into a company that is transforming indoor cycling for cyclists around the world. Albert Knowles’ journey from enthusiast to innovator is a testament to the power of passion and dedication. By listening to cyclists’ needs and continuously improving its products, Velocity Rockers has become a trusted name in the world of indoor cycling.
As indoor cycling continues to grow in popularity, Velocity Rockers is positioned to remain at the forefront of innovation, offering products that improve comfort, performance, and overall cycling satisfaction. For cyclists looking to enhance their indoor rides, the Velocity Rocker and Delta RS offer a proven solution that combines motion, comfort, and durability.
Contact Information
For more information on Velocity Rockers, visit velocityrockers.com. Stay connected with Velocity Rockers on social media through Facebook and Instagram.
Published by: Khy Talara
