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The all-in-one design lets you stay active while working at a desk, anywhere.

Summary FlexiSpot Deskcise Pro V9 Review: The Bottom Line

Why sit at your desk, when you can cycle at it? The FlexiSpot Deskcise Pro V9 is an all-in-one under-desk bike that includes everything you need to pedal and get your work done. At just 51 lbs, the Pro V9 has a lightweight, but stable design that you can use pretty much anywhere. Add it to your office or home, or take it outside to work on your laptop while pedaling against 8 quiet levels of adjustable magnetic resistance.

When compiling this FlexiSpot Deskcise Pro V9 review, our team appreciated the overall quality and functionality of this under-desk bike. It adjusted well for our team who range in height from 5’1” up to 6’5”. It also handles up to 300 lbs of user weight.

Keep in mind that the all-in-one design isn’t storable or foldable and it’s only best to use with a laptop, instead of a desktop. If you’re looking for an alternative piece of equipment to pedal or even just stand at to get in a little more movement while you work though, then we recommend checking out the FlexiSpot Deskcise Pro V9 under-desk bike.

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Testing Equipment and Writing Reviews Simultaneously For Years

Even though we spend a significant amount of time testing and reviewing all kinds of fitness equipment, we still work in an office setting while creating these reviews. There are times when we need to stand at our desks, walk on under-desk treadmills, or pedal on under-desk bikes or under-desk ellipticals to get in a little bit more movement throughout the day. Being active isn’t only limited to using equipment that you’d find at the gym or the outdoors. If you’re working at a computer for a large portion of the day, you can still get in some movement. We test all kinds of office-environment fitness equipment to help with this so we can help you find something that works for you.

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In-depth FlexiSpot Deskcise Pro V9 Review: Testing & Analysis

Dimensions/Storability

The FlexiSpot Deskcise Pro V9 features a desk, bike seat, and pedals in an all-in-one, fairly portable design. Its dimensions are 37.6” L x 22.8” W x 42.5” – 48.4” H (depending on the desk height). It takes up a lot less space than a typical office desk and chair. It doesn’t fold up though and isn’t exactly storable.

There are 4 wheels under the base so you can roll the Pro V9 around when needed.

It only weighs around 51 lbs, so it’s easy to push around. Since it doesn’t fold, you’re left to push it over against a wall or maybe in a closet when you’re not using it. It isn’t very heavy though so some people should be able to carry it when needed. If you have limited space in your office or home, just keep this in mind. The legs and wheels fold in under the frame to save you a little bit of space, but the rest of the machine doesn’t fold up.

The caster wheels allow you to use the Pro V9 pretty much anywhere – at least where you can roll it.

Once you’re on it the gravity sensor wheels lock so it doesn’t move or roll while in use.

Console

The console is a small digital display that is fixed to the base of the desk bike. It is between the desk and the bike seat. It isn’t backlit so it’s harder to read in darker rooms.

With overhead lighting though, it can be seen easily.

The display is battery-powered and requires 2 AA batteries. The batteries insert under the cupholder which is just in front of the display.

The battery-powered design means you don’t have to worry about plugging in the FlexiSpot Deskcise Pro V9.

The display tracks and reads your time, speed, distance, calories, odometer, and RPMs. You can set it at one of these metrics or on the scan mode to alternate between all of this information. The button below the display is where you can select which metrics are shown.

Below this button is the resistance dial that adjusts between 1-8 resistance levels. It’s easy to reach and positioned directly in front of the saddle.

The cupholder in front of the display is shallow but holds a standard water bottle. I would make sure your bottle has a lid on it though since you could knock your drink over while pedaling. The bottom of the cupholder has a textured anti-skid coaster to help keep your beverage in place though.

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Build Quality

For such a lightweight piece of equipment, the FlexiSpot Deskcise Pro V9 is stable and well-built. It comes in white and black.

The Pro V9 can be used almost anywhere.

It’s quiet, fairly transportable, and accommodating for people of most sizes. I’m going to go over all of the construction components below. For starters, the Pro V9 desk bike handles people up to 300 lbs.

Frame

The Deckcise’s frame is pretty narrow. The front and rear stabilizers that extend out from the bottom of the frame, that the wheels are attached to, provide a good base of support while sitting on the Pro V9. The frame is where the saddle, pedals, and desk attach into.

The adjustable seat post and desk post are made out of metal. They both offer a good amount of adjustability depending on your height. FlexiSpot recommends the Pro V9 for people from 5’1” up to 6’2”. Our team is 5’1” (me) up to 6’5” (Matt) and we’re both able to fit on the Pro V9. Matt wishes the seat adjusted a little higher, but it still works for him. I think people a little bit shorter than me could use the Pro V9, too.

I have a few inches of room to adjust the saddle lower if I need to.

Saddle

Speaking of the saddle, it is wide and cushioned. It places you in a position similar to riding an upright bike. The seat post is completely vertical so you sit vertically on the saddle rather than tipped slightly forward on indoor cycling bikes.

The saddle is wide to give a good base of support.

The saddle adjusts with a lever that’s just below the saddle.

You can adjust the saddle when you’re on it or off of it. It adjusts with a gas spring. This means when you hold the handle while off the saddle, it rises to the max height easily. It makes it a little hard to lower when you’re off the saddle, but it can be lowered when you push down firmly. It’s easier to lower when you’re sitting on it. The saddle only adjusts up and down, not forward and backward.

The seat cushioning is nice, but if you plan to sit on this for a few hours a day, it probably won’t feel that comfortable. A gel cover, or alternating between sitting on the saddle and standing at the desk could help.

Pedals

The pedals are standard, flat bike pedals.

They don’t have a top strap to secure your feet in place, which is beneficial in case you were to fall off the desk bike. They’re textured so your feet don’t slip.

They also come with covers that make them softer so you can cycle barefoot or in socks if you want to.

The pedal motion feels smooth and consistent. It’s also very quiet. The Pro V9 makes very little, if any noise. You can potentially hear the resistance, but it’s so quiet that you most likely won’t notice it. This makes the Deskcise appropriate to use in most homes and office settings.

With the FlexiSpot Deskcise Pro V9 being a desk bike, the pedal motion is circular. It feels like riding an upright bike. This means that your knees lift more than pedaling an under-desk elliptical. Fortunately, the desk adjusts up high so most people shouldn’t have to worry about their knees hitting the desk on the Pro V9 while they pedal.

Desk

The desk is fairly compact but fits a laptop just fine. The FlexiSpot Deskcise Pro V9 isn’t designed to support a large desktop computer. Unless you prefer to always work on a laptop, I probably wouldn’t rely on using the Pro V9’s desk to replace your entire desk. It’s best to use it as a way to incorporate a little bit of extra movement throughout the day and to spend a few hours cycling on it per day, at the most.

The desk adjusts up and down, and forward and back. It is positioned on an upright post. There are two levers to adjust the height and lateral positions. The desk is much easier to adjust than the saddle.

It can be adjusted when you’re on and off the Pro V9, too.

For adjustability, the desk height offers a lot of adjustabilities. Matt and I were both able to adjust the desk height to be comfortable while seated on the saddle and while standing. This makes the Pro V9 even more versatile since it can be used as a desk bike and also utilized as a standing desk.

As for the lateral positioning of the Pro V9, the desk adjusts back but I wish it adjusted a bit more forward. When I’m off the Deskcise, I can move the desk back so it is pretty much to the nose of the saddle. While our team was able to adjust the desk far enough forward so we could each comfortably use the Pro V9, I think it would be nice if the desk adjusted a few more inches forward.

The desk features a PU cushion to rest your arms on while using a laptop or writing in a notebook.

It isn’t the most padded, but it’s nice to have to help keep you a little more comfortable while biking and working.

Resistance

The 8 levels of adjustable magnetic resistance actually provide a good amount of tension to pedal against. The lower levels of 1-3 feel easy, while levels 6-8 provide a good amount of resistance.

It’s not to the level of an indoor cycling bike, but this machine wasn’t designed to be very exerting to use.

Most people should be able to use all of the resistance levels. It’s nice to be able to vary the tension of the pedals depending on the amount of work you want to put in while working at the desk.

Overall, the FlexiSpot Deskcise Pro V9 is functional and performed well for us. Considering its versatile all-in-one design and price point, this is a beneficial piece of equipment if you’re looking to be a little more active while you work, and if you have the space for it.

Warranty

FlexiSpot includes a 1-year warranty with the Deskcise Pro V9 desk bike. It’s pretty straightforward to assemble for 1-2 people.

Should You Buy The FlexiSpot Deskcise Pro V9

The FlexiSpot Deskcise Pro V9 has an all-in-one design that lets you pedal at a desk pretty much anywhere. It’s very quiet so we recommend it for most offices and homes. If you’re looking for a way to get in a little more movement throughout the day, the Pro V9 is a good option. It has a stable build and adjusts to handle people of most heights and weight up to 300 lbs.

If your work doesn’t require you to work at a desktop all the time, or if you prefer to work on a laptop, this desk bike is one to check out. I would consider it even if you only work on a laptop occasionally during the day. It’s also great if you don’t have a standing desk that allows you to use an under-desk treadmill, or if you can’t walk and work at a computer.

The Deskcise Pro V9 offers a good range of tension to pedal against, and the desk adjusts high enough that you can alternate between sitting on the saddle and standing at the desk. It’s also a nice option if you have the room for it since it doesn’t fold up. I would also recommend it if you want to work outside on a patio or back porch since it’s easy to roll around.

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FlexiSpot Deskcise Pro V9 Review Q&A / FAQs

How do you adjust a FlexiSpot bike?

The 8 levels of adjustable magnetic resistance are adjusted by using the resistance dial that is directly in front of the saddle. The numbers are clearly labeled to display which level you’re on. The saddle adjusts with a handle just underneath it. The desk has two handle levers under it to adjust it up, down, forward, and backward.

How long does it take to put together the FlexiSpot Deskcise Pro V9?

The FlexiSpot Deskcise Pro V9 is pretty easy to assemble. It shouldn’t take more than 10-20 minutes to put together for most people. It could take you less time, too.

Is this FlexiSpot Deskcise Pro V9 desk bike review a paid review?

Our FlexiSpot Deskcise Pro V9 review isn’t paid. FlexiSpot sent us the Pro V9 to review, but we were not paid to review it. This means that all of the opinions stated in this review are our own and reflect our unbiased experience using this desk bike. We do have an affiliate link. If you purchase through this link, we receive a commission, at no extra cost to you. It helps us out though so we can keep compiling reviews of all kinds of fitness equipment and office fitness equipment. Our goal is to test all kinds of equipment on the market so we can let you know how it works and if it’s worth it before you buy. After reviewing the Pro V9, we have found this to be one of the best desk bikes on the market.

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About the Author

Sydney Kaiser, ISSA-CPT, ISSA Nutritionist Certification
Sydney is a certified fitness instructor, personal trainer, and sports nutritionist who combines her passion for fitness, health, and wellness with her passion for writing. After graduating from UC Riverside with a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing, she began teaching indoor cycling and Lagree Fitness group fitness classes to people of all ages and abilities. Raised in Central Michigan, Sydney grew up training and competing on the Arabian Horse Association circuit through both Regional and National levels in Dressage and Sport Horse classes. In college, Sydney went on to compete at the collegiate level as a Division 1 equestrian athlete. Here at TRG, Sydney relies on her extensive background in fitness when reviewing and recommending all kinds of fitness, recovery, and health-related products.

The post FlexiSpot Deskcise Pro V9 Review 2024 appeared first on Treadmill Review Guru.

This newest AssaultBike has the original design of the Classic with features from the Elite to create a hybrid bike that’s long-lasting, low maintenance, and built for tough use. The biggest difference between the original Assault Bike is the frame. The new beefier frame weighs in at 118 lbs vs 96 lbs for the original bike. And it has Bluetooth connectivity.

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Assault bikes are extremely popular exercise bikes and are sized to easily fit most athletes. It’s popular because this bike can be used for light rehab, but also has unlimited resistance potential. The faster you pedal and push the handlebars, the faster the fan goes. The resistance keeps going up the faster you go.

It’s for this reason they can be great for high-intensity interval training and conditioning. This is due to the air resistance for one, and also because you are working your arms and legs at the same time at the same intensity. This means you’re getting one of the best full-body cardio workouts possible.

You can get a total body workout targeting your core, chest, arms, back, and legs as you push and pull on the handles to produce more speed and power. Along with their bikes, Assault Fitness also has treadmills and a rower that round out their impressive product line up.

With this spec review, we dig into the details of the AssaultBike Pro and see if this is the bike for you.

Air Bike Award: Runner-Up Best Assault Bike

The AssaultBike Pro has been added to our list of best air bikes. The AssaultBike Pro is a simple and easy-to-use bike and packs a punch when using it. The Pro is a step down from the impressive AssaultBike Elite which took the top spot on our list but the Pro is an impressive and slightly more affordable bike.

Who It’s For: People who want a customizable, low-impact but high-intensity fitness experience on a quality bike.

The Assault Bike Pro is designed for users who:

• Want an intense, but low-impact workout and weigh up to 300 pounds.
• Want a full body workout
• Need a customizable training session ranging from easy to very challenging
• Want a low maintenance piece of equipment

Assault Bike Pro Air Bike Review

Frame

Stability is a game changer with air resistance bikes. And the AssaultBike Pro’s heavy-duty steel frame brings that type of balance needed to handle all types of workouts. Balance equals smoothness when it comes to home gym equipment and particularly with air resistance stationary bikes. The AssaultBike Pro has been engineered to give you the most gentle ride conceivable.

Drive System

The AssaultBike Pro uses a chain based drive system, which makes some noise as you train. The chain-drive maximizes power output and can be beneficial with the audible feedback you receive as you speed up and slow down. This is great but needs to be considered if the bike will be used near others.

Display

AssaultBike Pro’s high-contrast LCD screen is an upgrade from previous models. Still, it’s not what you can see that makes it exciting. The ability to connect via Bluetooth is a significant improvement since this allows you to pair the display with your phone or tablet to track your workouts. Customize your training using seven onboard programming options, or you can step things up with competition mode. While readability is also much improved with the display, it is more scaled-down than other manufacturer’s exercise bikes.

On-board Stats

You can quickly check the display for current stats like distance, time, heartbeats per minute, watts, RPM, speed, and the always important calories burned. You can pair your smartphone or tablet to the bike via Bluetooth or ANT+ and track your stats through the Assault app. The ANT+ gives you the unique ability to mix/match different products/brands knowing they will work together. Most people find this great for heart rate monitors.

Programs

The AssualtBike Pro offers interval training programs to challenge users, alternating short bursts of intense riding with longer intervals of less intense speed. This type of training maximizes cardiovascular benefits by quickly increasing stroke volume, making your heart stronger and more efficient, and also helping decrease your risks of heart disease and high blood pressure.

Competition Mode

Press the up and down arrows simultaneously for a few seconds, and you will enter competition mode. Competition mode gives you the ability to set workout targets for distance, calories, and time. This is a tremendous way to be more effective and efficient while burning those extra calories.

Seat Post

The steel seat post will quickly adjust to make your workouts more comfortable and technically dynamic with eleven seat height settings and six front-to-back settings. The seat post is also quite solid, essential on an air resistance bike because of so many moving, torquing parts.

Saddle

The comfortable padded seat is more narrow than most stationary bikes, similar to a spin bicycle seat. The narrower seat is beneficial if you are training with intervals and will be on and off the bike during the workout.

Extra perks

• Transport Wheels: The front-mounted transport wheels make it easy to move the Assault Bike Pro when storing it is necessary.

Related Bike Reviews:

• Rogue Echo Airbike Revew
• Concept2 Bike ERG Review
• AssaultBike Elite Air Bike Review

The post Assault Bike Pro Review – 2024 appeared first on Treadmill Review Guru.

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Who It’s For: Cyclists looking for an economic studio bike with tech that rivals more expensive models

The s15i includes some great features that make it a good option for new cyclists:

• Economically priced for a great at-home training experience
• The bike is very quiet so you can ride any time of day
• Automated Incline/Decline automatically lifts the bike while you ride
• Includes iFit coaches, classes and outdoor routes for all levels of training
• Comfortable design with three adjustment points so you can find the right fit
• Offers a good combination of features provides new cyclists great tech on an affordable bike

Our Video Review

In-depth Review of the s15i Studio Cycle

Construction

Steel Frame

• The base, stabilizers and posts on the s15i are all steel. Handlebars are coated with a soft grip material. Black plastic molding protects intersecting joints and post shafts. Some serious engineering went into designing this bike. Wires and cables are internal, the drive train is quiet, and the frame is surprisingly solid for a bike that pivots up and down.
• Points of Adjustment are well-designed. There are three adjustment points on the s15i to help different size riders find proper bike fit:
  • Forward/Aft adjustment on the seat carriage moves the saddle forward and back.
  • Up/Down adjustment via the stem post lifts and lowers the seat carriage.
  • Up/Down adjustment in the handlebar post lifts the handlebars to the appropriate height.
  • You can tilt the seat slightly up or down by loosening the bolt on the seat carriage. Retighten when you find the right angle. This adjustment requires a wrench.

Geometry

• s15i Studio Bike geometry resembles a road bike. Handlebars are designed to be in line with the saddle. Rather than angle up at a 120 degree angle, the s15i handlebars extend forward parallel to the floor and so riders lean forward while riding rather than sit up. This position might seem uncomfortable initially, but it facilitates greater hamstring and glute engagement as opposed to a repetitively quad-dominant downward stroke. It also more similarly mimics outdoor road bike riding.

FlyWheel: 32 Pounds, Inertia-enhanced

• The 32pound flywheel is a good weight and size. The heavier a flywheel is, the more momentum it will develop as it spins. This inertia keeps the pedal motion smooth. The inertia-enhanced feature on the s15i means the flywheel utilizes this extra rotational energy so you get a clean pedal stroke without any jerkiness as you ride.
• Benefits of Magnetic Resistance:
  • No need to replace parts. There are no brake pads or friction points on the belt or flywheel with magnetic resistance. This reduces the need to replace parts that wear out due to friction.
  • Magnetic resistance is practically silent. Because there is no contact or friction, the flywheel doesn’t make noise while spinning or braking. Conversely, flywheel resistance from either wind resistance or brake pad contact produce substantial noise.
  • Magnetic resistance can be specifically calibrated and measured. This enables the s15i to provide 24 levels of resistance that are always the same.

Saddle: Adjusts forward/aft and up/down. Replaceable.

• Comfort: One area the s15i could use a bit of improvement is in saddle comfort.
  • Typically, on an indoor bike you want a narrow, very slightly padded seat with a smooth surface to prevent moisture build-up. A narrow design allows the leg to move freely with each pedal rotation without too much thigh friction from the saddle itself. Overly wide or padded saddles feel better initially, but they are more likely to cause friction sores on the inside of the thigh due to increased surface area.
  • The saddle is designed well, but it feels a little stiff. Comparatively, the Peloton bike has a more comfortable seat.
• Compatibility: Saddle can be replaced with any compatible bike seat.

Pedals: Flat with cages. Replaceable

• Included pedals have a flat surface with cages for secure foothold
• Pedals can be swapped out for clipless pedals (road or SPD) if desired

Console/Controls

Screen: 14″ Touchscreen

• • Size: I like the size of the s15i screen. Although it is slightly smaller than the s22i, it retains the QuickTouch controls on the bevel which are easy to see and reach. The tilting motion makes it so you can eliminate any overhead glare.
  • Screen Movement: The tilting motion makes it so you can eliminate any overhead glare. It also swivels 360 degrees so you can stand to the side of the bike while doing weights or other iFit classes.

• Resolution: The screen features crisp graphics and bright resolution. You can adjust screen settings in the touchscreen menu. Resolution is factory set to match a moderate-speed internet, so if you have quick WiFi, turn the resolution up when you set up your bike.
• Touchscreen: Touchscreen capabilities are responsive. Even with sweaty hands or while riding, I found the touchscreen controls to be easily navigable. Occasionally I had to tap something twice, but it wasn’t often or inconvenient.
• Functionality: The combination of good screen size, crisp graphics, and touchscreen capability makes the overall functionality of the touchscreen top notch.

Handlebars: Adjust up/down. Multiple grips

• Design: The handlebars have a horizontal grip bar, tri-position resting loop, and grip bar extensions that angle up gently on either side.
• Comfort: The handlebars are coated with a spongy grip material that is soft on hands and arms. The overall design and comfort of the handlebars facilitates good position while riding.

Accessories

• Fans: The fans attached below the screen produce good air flow. You can adjust the direction of the fans by tilting the screen. I’ve read reviews about the fan producing a squeaking noise, but I didn’t notice this. My fan is pretty quiet in general.
• Weights: Two, 3 pound weights are included with the bike. These rest on a tray in between the handlebars and screen.
• There is no Tablet Holder or shelf for phone storage. You could try to rest a phone in one of the water bottle cups, but it might bounce out. Best option is to set a phone gently to the side while riding.

Storage

• Storage Cups: Two storage cups are positioned just underneath the handlebars. These will hold a moderate-sized water bottle.

Functionality

Incline / Decline range

The +20% incline and -10% decline is innovative tech. While most spin bikes use resistance to simulate grade, the s15i will actually pivot to match the grade while you ride. There are three benefits to this:

• You can ride without having to constantly adjust the resistance and incline. One of the complaints I read frequently with other bikes is, if a rider misses a cue or doesn’t hear the trainer, they don’t know what level they are supposed to be working. With the automated incline/decline and resistance in iFit, the bike will adjust for you so you can just ride along without having to constantly listen for the trainer to tell you what to do. iFit coaches inform you what is coming up, but you don’t have to make all the manual adjustments.
• The auto incline/decline feature more closely simulates outdoor riding. Rather than have to create a hill incline, the s15i pivots so you ride up a real incline while the bike selectively increases the resistance to match. This means you can focus on maintaining cadence and proper form rather than be distracted with continual adjustments. It is a much more
• The combination of incline and resistance (as opposed to resistance alone) offers more training variables and more intense strength training. Level 22 resistance on a +20% incline is more challenging than a 22 resistance on a flat road. Thus, the s15i provides greater training combinations and more advanced resistance combinations than standard indoor bikes that stay level.

Resistance Levels

• 22 Resistance levels offer abundant training combinations. The digital resistance is also consistent each time at each level for more accurate metrics. Magnetic resistance is frictionless and quiet and doesn’t cause as much wear on the bike.

Pre-programmed workouts

The s15i features onboard workouts that are not a part of iFit.

• Manual Workout: A white track and stat bar display stats and distance. You can manually adjust the incline and resistance to create your own workout.
• Maps: Select from an array of full-color Google map images. Display options include: Street View; Map View; Satelite; and Rotate (which toggles between views). The images update every few seconds as you ride. There is no audio included, so these are a great option when you want to listen to your own playlist or podcast.
• Interval, Strength, Speed, Calorie Burn: Pre-programmed workouts display a graph of the overall routine. The bike will adjust incline and resistance to match your selected workout. These are of varying length and intensity.

iFit Subscription

iFit is included free for the first month with up to five profiles. The iFit library is diverse and the graphics on the outdoor rides are excellent. Workouts include the following:

• Indoor Trainer-Led Cycling Classes: These classes feel like you’re taking a spin class virtually. They take place inside a studio with an instructor and often other participants are taking the class with the instructor in person. As you’re riding, the resistance level and incline level will change with the instructor’s cues, or you can change it yourself at any time. There are a wide variety of classes that have different goals such as tabata, HIIT, hill training and more. There are both live and on-demand indoor classes available. You can also compete on a leaderboard to see how you rank against other members who are taking and have taken the class (if you aren’t taking it live). The music plays from set radio stations of your choice. Each station has a preset list of classes in that genre. We wish that the music was integrated into the indoor cycling classes, because they often are in in-person cycling classes. This way the instructor can play songs that coordinate with what is happening in the class. Such as faster songs for sprints, and slower, intense songs for hills. We miss this in iFit’s indoor cycling classes.
• Outdoor Trainer-Led Cycling Classes: We are constantly impressed with iFit’s outdoor content. You can take classes in areas all over the world. In the cycling classes, a trainer rides a bike and is followed by a camera. The camera will also pan to the surrounding landscapes as well. These classes also use auto adjust to change the resistance/incline on the bike for you. You can override this at any time. These classes are our favorite to take because the graphics are clear and it makes it feel like you’re there. Plus, the trainer will often talk about the location and provide some fun facts about it, too. The music in these classes are from the same set of stations as the indoor classes, so it’s a background component also.
• Studio-Based Combo Classes: These classes let you get a total body workout. Part of the class is spent on the bike and part of the class is on a mat sometimes using weights or just bodyweight exercises. These are filmed just like the other full-bike indoor cycling classes.
• Classes Off Of The Bike: In addition to cycling classes, there are also classes that you can take on other equipment from NordicTrack and ProForm such as treadmill, rowing, and elliptical classes. Plus, there’s classes off the equipment like yoga, meditation, and strength training. You can take these on the bike or on the app from your phone or TV.

Noise Level

• • When pedaling: The s15i is remarkably silent. The magnetic resistance doesn’t create much noise at all while pedalling or when braking.
  • When adjusting incline: There is a motor noise when the bike adjusts incline, but this isn’t constant and it isn’t too loud. I would compare it to the noise made by a treadmill when it inclines or declines.
  • Speakers: The speakers produce good volume, which is nice when riding, but it could be loud to others in the room, especially since the speakers are in the back of the screen. Play around with the volume a little initially to determine where you want to place your bike. Positioning the bike facing a c

orner will mitigate how much volume you project into the room.

Storage / Folding

The s15i does not fold up, but it does have wheels on the front stabilizer. The bike is a bit heavy, but you can pivot it forward and roll it out of the way if needed. It also has a relatively compact footprint so you can slide it alongside a wall or tuck it in a corner. My only recommendation would be to make sure and remove the weights prior to tilting and rolling the bike. I forgot to remove the weights once when attempting to move the bike and they both fell off, barely missing my toe and the screen.

Items of Note

Aside from a slightly stiff seat, I found the s15i to be sturdy and well-designed. You can swap out the pedals and the seat with a different set if desired.

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Commercial Studio Cycles

Nordictrack’s Commercial studio cycles are unique in that they incline and decline while you ride! An incline motor positioned under the frame lifts and tilts the bike to create a natural feeling of riding outdoors. The s27i, s22i, and s15i all include a full-color touchscreen with outdoor iFit rides that transport you to exotic locations all over the world.

Nordictrack Commercial s27i Studio Cycle

The NordicTrack s27i currently has the largest touch screen found on an exercise bike. The 27 inch screen is large and makes viewing iFit’s classes highly interactive. The outdoor classes are especially mesmerizing on the large pivoting screen. The s27i is NordicTrack’s premium exercise bike and offers a lot of the same features of the s22i.

The incline and decline function definitely makes the s27i unlike your average indoor exercise bike. When inclined, the resistance feels harder to pedal against to simulate the feeling of riding up a hill. Alternatively, the resistance feels less intense when declined. The frame of the bike also pivots up and down to really make your ride feel realistic to riding outdoors.

The lightly padded, narrow racing saddle makes long rides ideal, and the spongy, textured handles offer multiple grip options. The adjustment buttons on the handles allow for quick adjusting while riding and are more convenient than your typical resistance knob, especially when programming the bike to go to a specific level. Of course, with iFit the s27i will automatically change the resistance and incline/decline of the bike to match the format of the class – this is one of our favorite iFit features!

Read our full review of the NordicTrack S27i Studio Cycle.

Specs:

• Footprint: 57″ Long x 28″ Wide x 65″ High
• 27” Rotating & Tilting HD Touchscreen
• Power Readout with Wattage
• Automated Incline & Decline Drive System
• Device Tray
• AutoBreeze™ Fan
• Water Bottle Holder
• 2-Sided SPD Pedals
• -10% to + 20% Incline
• SMR™ Silent Magnetic Resistance
• Inertia-enhanced 32lb Flywheel
• Two 3 Lb. Dumbbells are included
• Max User Weight: 350 Lb

Nordictrack Commercial s22i Studio Cycle

The NordicTrack s22i changed indoor cycling with the addition of an incline motor. This feature lifts and tilts the bike to match the incline or decline of the actual terrain. This increases your training variables and also makes rides feel more realistic. iFit also includes automated resistance and incline so the bike will automatically adjust both incline and resistance for you (automated control can be overridden at any time.) A 22” screen attached to the front of the bike showcases iFit indoor classes and outdoor rides all over the world. These are led by personal trainers who guide you along the trail or workout.

iFit has constantly updated classes and content and it incorporates a leaderboard into both classes and outdoor routes. There are no live classes, though. The s22i also has touch button controls on the handlebars so you can incline/decline or adjust the resistance as needed. There is also a fan mounted under the screen.

The s22i uses magnetic resistance so it is practically silent and doesn’t take up much space in your home. The bike weighs around 200lbs and has a 350lb weight capacity. The s22i has flat pedals with cages that will hold any athletic shoe, and SPD clips. We love the innovation and design of the Nordictrack s22i. If you are in the market for something original and engaging, this is a great option.

Read our full review of the NordicTrack S22i Studio Cycle.

Specs

• Footprint: 61″ Long x 22″ Wide x 58″ High
• 22” 360 Degree Rotating Smart HD Touchscreen
• 30W Premium Audio
• 2 Water Bottle Holders
• AutoBreeze™ Workout Fan with four power settings
• -10% to + 20% Incline
• SMR™ Silent Magnetic Resistance
• Inertia-enhanced 32lb Flywheel
• Hybrid SPD & Toe Clip Pedals
• Automated Incline & Decline Drive System
• Two 3 Lb. Dumbbells are included
• Max User Weight: 350 Lb

Nordictrack Commercial s15i Studio Cycle

The NordicTrack s15i is one of our favorite bikes because it has all the same features as the s22i but with a slightly smaller screen and a more affordable price point. The s15i has a 14” touchscreen with a wide bevel that houses quick touch buttons for both resistance and incline. Like the s22i, this bike has a motor on the rear stabilizer that creates a -10% decline to +20% incline. The s15i features 22 digital resistance levels with manual controls for both on the extension grips.

The s15i also has automated incline and decline. The combination of the incline feature in addition to 22 levels of magnetic resistance makes the s15i as close as you can get to outdoor riding. This feature also significantly increases training variables as you can now combine resistance, speed, and incline to create greater climbing challenges. NordicTrack offers the S15i free when you purchase a 4 year subscription to iFit.

Read our full review of the NordicTrack S15i Studio Cycle.

• Total Footprint: 60” Long x 22” Wide x 58” High
• 14” High Def Touchscreen with wide bevel for Incline and Resistance buttons
• Automated -10% to +20% Incline
• SMR™ Silent Magnetic Resistance
• OneTouch™ Controls on Extension Grips
• Digital Resistance with 22 Levels
• 32lb Weighted Flywheel
• Spongy-coated multi-position handlebars
• Saddle and Pedals can be swapped for any standard road bike pedals and seat
• Three points of adjustment for correct bike fit
• Two 3 Lb. Dumbbells are included and sit in a tray just below the console
• Max User Weight: 350 Lb.

Nordictrack Recumbent Series

Nordictrack’s recumbent bikes include the VR25 and R35. These recumbent bikes feature many of the same features as the studio bikes, but with more relaxed positioning that makes it easier to get on and off. Recumbent bikes tend to be larger and heavier than studio bikes, but are usually very stable and support a higher weight capacity.

Nordictrack Recumbent R35

The Nordictrack R35 combines comfort, tech, and convenience in one bike. The R35 has a padded, oversized seat that slides horizontally so you can find the right fit. A vented backrest and lumbar support increase your comfort on the bike, and the wide pedals will support any athletic shoe. We love the 14” touchscreen with high-def resolution and quality iFit content. The 25lb flywheel creates a smooth pedal stroke and 26 digital resistance levels allow for plenty of resistance variables. This bike will support up to 350 lbs of user weight, making it a good option for riders of all sizes. The one-touch controls and a clean console augment the bright touchscreen.

This combination of features makes the Nordictrack R35 a comfortable recumbent bike that will increase your cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, and help you lose weight – all while exercising at home.

Read our full review of the NordicTrack R35 Recumbent Bike.

Specs

• Smooth, Inertia-enhanced 25lb Flywheel
• 26 Digital Resistance levels
• Silent Magnetic Resistance
• 350 Lb. User Weight Capacity
• 68” L x 24” W x 54” H Footprint
• 14” Smart HD Touchscreen
• Syncs with Bluetooth Headphones
• Live Touch Buttons
• Dual AutoBreeze™ Workout Fan
• Automatic Trainer Control
• Indoor and Outdoor Rides

Nordictrack Recumbent VR25

The NordicTrack VR25 is a comfortable bike that is ideal for anyone looking for low-impact training on a bike that is reclined and easy to use. With a padded seat and vented backrest, you can work hard and still stay cool. The step-thru design works great for those with mobility or joint issues.

The NordicTrack VR25 is a smooth, comfortable bike. Riders have the option to sit back and pedal gently while viewing their tablet, studying for a test, or even reading a book set on the lip of the console. iFit includes a wide array of classes and rides that will keep you interested and motivated. We love how NordicTrack engineered this bike to provide exceptional functionality for those who want to exercise without stress to their back or joints. The step-through design is ideal for any user but will work especially well for anyone with range of motion limitations. You can strengthen the powerhouse muscles in your legs and enhance your cardiorespiratory conditioning while staying comfortable and reclined. It’s hard to go wrong with the VR25!

Read our full review of the NordicTrack VR25 Recumbent Bike.

Specs

• StepThru™ Design
• Oversized, Lumbar-Supported Cushion Seat
• Extra-Wide, Ergonomic Foot Pedals with Adjustable Strap
• AutoBreeze™ Workout Fan
• 68″ L x 21.75″ W x 60″ H Footprint
• 25 Lb. Inertia-Enhanced Flywheel
• Commercial-Gauge, Solid Steel Construction
• 350 Lb. User Capacity
• 7” Smart HD Touchscreen
• Two 2” Digitally Amplified Bluetooth® Speakers
• Bluetooth® Smart Enabled
• 35 On-board Workouts
• 25 Lb. Inertia-Enhanced Flywheel
• 26 Digital Resistance Levels

Nordictrack Upright Series

Upright bikes are a hybrid exercise bike with an upright frame where the handlebars are set higher than the seat so riders can sit more comfortably without being leaned over. They are typically easier to get on and off since the saddle is lower.

Nordictrack VU 29

The VU 29 is an upright bike with a 14” smart touchscreen that includes iFit free for the first month. It has automatic trainer control so the resistance will adjust to match the pre-programmed ride. This bike is relatively lightweight and the 19lb flywheel is easy to pedal. We appreciate how the resistance is quiet which makes it so you can ride this bike at any time.

Read our full review of the NordicTrack VU 29 Upright Bike.

Specs

• 14” Smart HD Color Touchscreen
• 30-day iFit Membership Included
• Automatic Trainer Control
• Integrated Pivoting Tablet Holder
• Auxiliary Music Port
• AC Adapter Included
• Two 2” Digitally Amplified Speakers
• Upright Frame
• 19 Lb Inertia-enhanced Flywheel
• SMR™ Silent Magnetic Resistance
• 24 Digital Resistance Levels
• 325 Lb User Weight Capacity

Nordictrack VU 19

The VU 19 is an upright bike with a 7” smart touchscreen that also includes iFit free for the first month. This is an affordable, lightweight bike that is easy to get on and off and allows the rider to sit upright for more comfort.

Read our full review of the NordicTrack VU 19 Upright Bike.

Specs

• 7” Smart HD Color Touchscreen
• Free 30 Day Trial of iFit
• 59.4 ” H x 24.9″ W x 43.6″ L Footprint
• Integrated Pivoting Tablet Holder
• Auxiliary Music Port
• AC Adapter Included
• Two 2” Bluetooth®3 Compatible Speakers
• Upright Frame
• SMR™ Silent Magnetic Resistance
• 24 Digital Resistance Levels
• 325 Lb User Weight Capacity

Other (bikes, rowers, ellipticals)

In addition to bikes, Nordictrack also offers treadmills, ellipticals, rowers, and other fitness equipment.

Pros / Cons of Nordictrack Exercise Bikes

iFit Review:

iFit is Nordictrack’s subscription service. It currently costs $39/month for a family plan (up to 5 profiles), and $180/year for an individual plan (1 profile). Often, Nordictrack will include the iFit family plan for free for the first 30 days with the purchase of any exercise equipment. iFit includes thousands of different workouts and classes for both on and off the bike.

• Automated incline/decline and resistance
  When you start an iFit program, the bike is automated to do what the trainer directs, which means users can ride hands-free while the bike automatically adjusts to match the class incline or resistance. This is a huge benefit and makes it easy to enjoy a class without having to constantly play with the controls.

• Abundant indoor class options both on and off the bike
  iFit classes are not limited to running on the bike. There are hundreds of other classes such as resistance training, yoga, stretching, aerobics, combo classes, HIIT classes, etc. You can log into iFit on your machine or from any personal device so you can take a class at any time in any location.

• Outdoor rides all over the world
  You are also not limited to indoor classes! iFit has outdoor routes all over the world! You can do a trail ride through Zion National Park. Bike the steel hills of New Zealand. Do a gravel ride through Colorado, or even participate in a Tour of Utah road ride.

• Professional personal trainers lead and instruct as you work out
  Each class, indoor or out, is led by a professional personal trainer. These trainers are engaging and make the content and programs helpful and interesting.

• Updated and engaging content
  Class content is updated regularly. New classes and routes will show up daily. Series classes may take you through various stages of an event, such as the Tour de France. You can select one of the different filmed routes in that event.

• Leaderboard and other community features
  iFit does have a Leaderboard, which connects users who are taking the same class. Filters on the Leaderboard allow you to adjust who you compete against and manage the leader criteria.

• Affordable for what you get
  iFit is one of the more affordable fitness subscriptions on the market when you consider that it is automated with your bike, has thousands of classes, and can be used on any personal device at any time.

Overall Rating of Nordictrack Bikes:

Nordictrack is one of the top-selling bike manufacturers in the world. We are consistently impressed with the quality, construction, and components of Nordictrack bikes. There’s a model or option for every user, from their Commercial series bikes to the comfortable recumbent line and even the upright series.

The post NordicTrack Exercise Bike Reviews – 2024 appeared first on Treadmill Review Guru.

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Best Cheap Exercise Bike Awards:

The ProForm Carbon CX is on our best cheap exercise bikes list. We are impressed with how affordable, yet high-quality it is. Even at this price point, the Carbon CX uses magnetic resistance and has a solid front-mounted flywheel. It’s also made of solid steel and similarly constructed to ProForm’s premium exercise bikes.

Why Trust Our Review Of The ProForm Carbon CX

Our reviewers here at Treadmill Review Guru are indoor cycling instructors and enthusiasts who spend a lot of time in the saddle. We test a wide range of exercise bikes from different brands, as well as ProForm. It is with our experience in using and testing exercise bikes and equipment from ProForm, like the ProForm Pro 22, that we’re assessing the Carbon CX. By looking at a bike’s features and specs, we can get a good idea of how it performs and functions overall.

In-depth Review of the ProForm Carbon CX Exercise Bike

iFit App

Being from ProForm, the Carbon CX exercise bike is compatible with iFit. iFit is an interactive training software that lets you get guided workouts from the comfort of your home. iFit requires a monthly subscription to use, and this comes free for the first 30 days when you purchase the Carbon CX.

To use iFit, you will need to download and stream the app from your device whether that be a tablet or phone. You can also use the app on your smart TV, to view from a larger screen.

iFit offers trainer-led classes on and off the bike. You can take on-demand indoor studio classes as well as numerous outdoor rides in beautiful locations all over the world. There are over 16,000 classes, and on the app, you’ll have access to all of them. In addition to the variety of bike classes, you can take mat classes like strength training, yoga, pilates, stretching, meditation, and even watch TED Talks. So, after you’re done cycling, or before, you can vary your training schedule with other types of training for your whole body and mind.

There are also treadmill, rowing, and elliptical classes that you can take on compatible equipment or with your device.

Of course, if you already have iFit-enabled e quipment, you’ll be able to use your membership to log into the app on your device and follow along on the Carbon CX.

Console

The console consists of an LCD window display and the device holder. The LCD window display is actually built into the holder. This is where you adjust the resistance and see your workout metrics. There is also an iFit button to connect the bike to iFit when you’re using your device. When connected, the Carbon CX will adjust the resistance automatically when taking an iFit class. This way you can have a hands-free riding experience.

You can of course bypass the SmartAdjust feature and adjust the bike yourself, however, if you’re streaming iFit or just using your device on the holder, you’ll have to move it to do so. When you place your device on the tray, the LCD window display is blocked. This isn’t a huge deal, but we can imagine it gets a little annoying to have to move your tablet/phone out of the way to change your resistance level. A resistance knob would be a nice solution.

An added perk to the device holder is that it adjusts so you can see your iFit class from on and off the bike. This is especially beneficial when you’re taking bike boot camp classes.

Of course, if you don’t want to use iFit, you can stream any content of your choice. That makes the Carbon CX very enticing and versatile. You can also use it like a regular exercise bike and just hop on and go, as well.

Below the handlebars is a brake for the flywheel, so if you need to stop quickly you just press on it. There’s also a water bottle holder attached to the frame. It is just a plastic clip, much like on the NordicTrack S27i Studio Bike and ProForm Pro 22, but it should hold most water bottles.

Construction Quality & Durability

Considering the ProForm Carbon CX weighs 125 lbs, we anticipate that it will feel sturdy and stable. Moving this bike shouldn’t be too difficult for most users. There are front transportation wheels so you can lift up the back end and wheel it around.

We are a little disappointed to see that the max weight capacity is only 250 lbs. 350 lbs is usually some of the highest capacities we see.

Frame

The frame of the bike closely resembles the ProForm Studio Bike Pro 22 and ProForm Studio Bike Pro. The frame is made of solid steel and the front and rear stabilizers are connected by an additional steel piece that runs under the bike. This definitely adds to the stability of the bike, and we’re thrilled to see this on such an affordable bike. The Carbon CX should perform similarly to ProForm’s higher-end bikes.

FlyWheel

The flywheel weighs about 28 lbs. This is a nice weight. Considering the price point, I would be weary to recommend this bike if it had a light flywheel of under 15 lbs. Heavy flywheels of 20-30 lbs and more tend to be secure and smooth. Light flywheels under 10 lbs are best on more expensive bikes.

The flywheel on the Carbon CX is similar to ProForm’s other bikes. It is said to be inertia-enhanced as well, so we assume it provides a smooth, stable pedal stroke. The Carbon CX uses magnetic resistance so it should be very quiet, if not practically silent. Magnetic resistance is usually more expensive and less damaging to the flywheel than friction resistance, so we’re happy to see it on this bike. There are 16 different levels of resistance to choose from.

Drive System

The ProForm Carbon CX uses a belt drive system, which will help keep the bike quiet and smooth to use. The belt is what connects the pedals to the flywheel. The Carbon CX has toe-caged pedals so users of most shoe sizes should be able to use these just fine. The toe cages are designed to be compatible with any type of athletic shoe. If you wanted a clipped-in experience, you’ll need to swap out these pedals.

Handlebars And Saddle

I really like the looks of these handles. They remind me of the ProForm Pro 22 and also the Peloton Bike+. The horizontal bar is angled but should offer plenty of grip options when you’re in and out of the saddle. Unfortunately, the handlebars only adjust up and down and not forward and back. The saddle adjusts up/down and forward/back though, so most users should be able to get a good bike fit.

Speaking of the saddle, it is white which is unique. There are reviews saying it is uncomfortable, but this saddle can be swapped out with another. The thing with bike saddles is if you’re new to indoor cycling, they can take some getting used to. By looking at it, this one on the Carbon CX is designed to be narrow, making it perfect for long rides. Wider seats can cause saddle sores.

Warranty

ProForm offers a standard warranty for the Carbon CX. With the purchase of this bike you’ll get a 10-year warranty for the frame, and a 1-year warranty for parts and labor. We appreciate that they include this warranty on such an affordable bike.

The post ProForm Carbon CX Exercise Bike Review – 2024 appeared first on Treadmill Review Guru.

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Who It’s For: Athletes who want an AirBike with no max resistance, a steel frame, and solid reputation

Assault has manufactured the Airbike with several key features that make it a good buy for users who:

• Are looking for something reputable and well built
• Desire both upper and lower body conditioning
• Want equipment that will provide intense HIIT training
• Appreciate the tried-and-true resistance of a chain drive
• Can mount and sit on the bike with proper spine alignment
• May want to compete against other AirBike athletes
• Use HIIT sessions to supplement their strength training routine
• Have space for this hearty machine

In-depth Review of Assault Airbike

Construction

Frame

• Steel Frame
  The Assault AirBike has a reinforced steel frame that is sturdy and anchors the bike to the floor. Regardless of your intensity, the Airbike doesn’t feel like it’s going to topple. Stabilizers on both the front and rear provide balance and both stabilizers have leveling feet underneath to adjust for more stability. The drivetrain cover protects the belt drive from dust or other debris. The handlebars attach on either side of the flywheel for upper body work and the console hovers just above the flywheel at chest height. The bike itself weighs just under 100 pounds and while it feels heavy to move, it does support an impressive weight capacity. The flywheel does not come with a windshield, but Assault does offer one as an optional add-on at check out.
• Seat Adjustment
  The AirBike seat moves up and down as well as forward and aft. The handlebars are one solid piece and do not adjust up or down. It is important to find the right bike fit when using the AirBike. For indoor exercise bikes, a gentle 25-35 degree bend in the knee is recommended. If your seat is too low, it will hurt your knees. If it’s too high, you’ll feel it in the perineum. Each rider should find the right fit and then adjust the bike as needed with each use. Having both an up/down adjustment as well as fore/aft makes it so the AirBike should work for most sized athletes.
• Flat Metal Pedals
  The AirBike features flat metal pedals with a rubberized, textured surface for foot grip. There is no strap to hold your shoe in — so make sure you have a solid foot placement with the ball of the foot connecting with the pedal for maximum power.
• Plug
  The Airbike console is battery powered and therefore does not require electricity. You can place your Airbike anywhere without needing close proximity to a wall outlet.

25” FlyWheel

• Steel FlyWheel with 6 Airblades
  The 25” flywheel on the Assault AirBike houses six air blades that rotate as you ride the bike. This produces wind resistance that is practically unlimited. The faster you pedal and pull the handlebars, the faster the air blades move. This flywheel design is what makes Assault AirBikes so popular for CrossFit athletes and HIIT intervals. Since the blades respond to user power, the Airbike will respond to the strength of whoever is riding it. The flywheel is connected to both the pedals and handlebars — so you can isolate either upper or lower body as desired. But we recommend using it as a full body training machine since it will challenge every part of you. Don’t worry if you are dizzy and out of breath after just a few minutes of use — that means the AirBike is doing its job.

Drivetrain

The AirBike uses a standard chain drive that connects the pedals to the flywheel hub. A chain drive is noisier, but also has a consistent resistance throughout the stroke. Belt drives are quieter and require less maintenance, but they also change the way the bike feels both underfoot and while you are pulling. The chain is protected by a drive shield that reduces dust and debris from entangling with the chain or sprocket.

Saddle

• Comfort and Design
  • The AirBike saddle is black stitched leather and is slightly wider than a racing saddle for a bit more posterior comfort.
• Two Seat Adjustments
  • You can raise and lower the seat as well as move it forward and back. A knob with notched grooves in the saddle and seat tubes holds the seat securely where you set it.

Console/Controls

Console

• LCD Display
  • The bike console displays:
    • Total Time
    • Time
    • Distance
    • Calories
    • Watts
    • Speed
    • RPM
    • Heart Rate (for compatible Polar chest strap)
• There are 7 preloaded programs with buttons along the side of the console for interval and target training.
  • 20/10 interval button for 20 seconds of work, 10 seconds of rest
  • 10/20 interval button for 10 seconds of work, 20 seconds of rest
  • A custom button also allows riders to set their own intervals as desired
  • Target Time
  • Target Distance
  • Target Calories
  • Target Heart Rate
  • You can set your own targets for any or all of these metrics and work towards them throughout your training.
• Along the bottom of the console are buttons for Start, Stop, Up/Down and Enter
• The console is battery operated and does not require a wall outlet.
• One complaint is the console is not backlit, so if you are in a garage or dark room, the digital numbers can be hard to see.

Optional Accessories

• Windscreen
  • The windscreen is an optional accessory that attaches to the top of the flywheel to limit the amount of air that blows upward into your face.
• Water Bottle Holder
  • A water bottle holder attaches to the console support arm as an optional add on from Assault.
• Chest Strap
  • Assault also offers a Polar chest strap as an optional add on that will sync with the console.

Functionality

Performance

The Assault Airbike has a reinforced steel frame, comfortable seat, and six thick air blades. The flywheel is an impressive 25” in circumference which allows for maximum air flow. The stabilizers are wide and have adjustable leveling feet underneath. The AirBike works well for total body training but you can isolate upper or lower body if desired.

Foot pegs on the side of the flywheel allow riders to rest or place their feet here while focusing on an upper body challenge. Of course, you can also just focus on the lower body by removing your hands from the handles. To mix up interval training, athletes could do one interval fully upper body and then next focus on lower body. You work just as hard and burn a lot of calories but the alternating upper/lower training enables you to workout longer before that dreaded maximum fatigue threshold.

The console has great features for HIIT training, but it isn’t as feature-rich as others we’ve seen. It also isn’t backlit and may be hard to see in low light.

Resistance

Since it uses air resistance, the Airbike has unlimited max power — the harder you pull and pedal, the more air resistance is generated by the air blades. This is not an easy machine to use. The chain drive is a point of discussion since some athletes love the consistency of the chain drive. It is smooth and feels consistent throughout your stroke. However, it is noisier than a belt drive and requires more ongoing maintenance. Whether or not you prefer a chain drive or belt drive will be a personal preference as both have positives and negatives. The chain drive on the Assault AirBike does make it noisier to ride, but its ubiquitous usage all over the world — and its consistent calorie counting makes it a great air bike for competitive athletes.

Pre-programmed workouts

• There are Seven pre programmed workouts on the AirBike:
  • 20/10 Intervals: 20 seconds of work with 10 seconds of rest. This is a traditional Tabata style workout with a rest segment that is half the time of the work segment. This is extremely challenging since you have very limited recovery in between intervals. Eight 20/10 intervals takes 4 minutes and by the end we promise you will be completely out of breath! Use these for full body conditioning, or isolate upper/lower as desired.
  • 10/20 Intervals: 10 seconds of work and 20 seconds of rest. This inverted Tabata interval program provides more rest which allows you to go all out during that 10 seconds. Don’t think this is easy! If you give it your all those 10 seconds are killer.
  • Custom Intervals: if you want to do 40/20’s or 45/15’s, you can set the interval work/rest intervals as desired.
  • Targeted Training: This allows you to customize your workout to achieve certain goals. You can set the Target to be distance, time, calories or HR. If you want to ride 2 miles, set your Target for Distance and then work hard to achieve that Target. The same is true for Time, Calories or HR. The Targeted training programs work well for users of various conditioning levels since you can set targets that are challenging for you.
  • Heart Rate Training: the console is Bluetooth enabled so it will sync with any compatible chest strap for targeted heart rate training. Heart rate training is a more accurate way to measure your exertion since your heart rate will respond to how hard your body is working. Heart rate training is very valuable on the Assault Airbike. The console provides a digital readout of your heart rate in real time.

Noise Level

The Assault AirBike is a noisy bike. Between the chain drive and air resistance, this bike generates significant noise while in use. This isn’t your grandma’s exercise bike though — no one expects you to set it behind a couch to ride during Jeopardy. This high-intensity training tool is designed to be used in a gym by athletes who are fully focused on their conditioning. The noise is noticeable but not really an issue in a gym environment.

Storage / Folding

The Airbike bike does not fold, however, there are wheels under the front stabilizer so you can tip the bike and gently roll it out of the way. Due to its lighter weight and elevated wheels, this is a relatively easy bike to roll.

The post Assault Fitness Airbike Classic Review – 2024 appeared first on Treadmill Review Guru.

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Who It’s For: Cyclists who want interactive training on a quiet, sturdy bike

The ProForm Bike Pro is best for athletes who want just enough tech on a silent bike. It includes:

• SMR Magnetic resistance doesn’t create friction on the flywheel. Pedalling and braking are quiet
• Three points of adjustment allow you to raise and lower the handlebars, as well as move the seat forward and aft, and up and down
• Seat and pedals can be swapped out for compatible road saddle or clipless pedals
• The Bike Pro includes updated tech with a 10” touchscreen and iFit database with over 16,000 training options
• Balanced geometry allows riders to pedal hard or stand up out of the saddle without the bike rocking side to side

In-depth Review of the ProForm Studio Bike Pro

Construction

Frame

The Studio Bike Pro has a sturdy steel frame with front and rear stabilizers and a support beam at the base to hold it steady. Adjustable leveling feet under the rear stabilizer can be tightened or loosened to match your floor. Two wheels on the front stabilizer allow you to pivot the bike forward and roll it out of the way. This has a slightly lower weight capacity than comparable bikes at just 250 pounds, so it may not work for all sized riders. However, with multiple points of adjustment and solid engineering, the Studio Bike Pro offers a comfortable ride.

Handlebars

The handlebars have multiple grips. You can sit upright and hold the horizontal bar, relax forward on the extension grips or grab the center loop which angles upward. My only complaint with the handlebars is they are not padded. I like to lean forward as I ride, and I have to place a towel over my handlebars to add a bit of cushioning. A gentle foam padding or spongy coating would add more comfort to the handlebars.

Points of Adjustment

The Studio Bike Pro has three points of adjustment:

• Handlebars move up and down
• Seat post moves up and down
• Seat carriage moves forward and aft

FlyWheel

• FlyWheel weight & functionality
  A 32lb inertia-enhanced flywheel at the front of the bike creates smooth motion. Inertia-enhanced design means the flywheel collects the energy from your pedal stroke so it will gain momentum as you ride.

• Type of Resistance
  Resistance is generated via magnets that oppose the motion of the flywheel. There are no friction points and therefore reduced contact and wear on the flywheel. Magnetic resistance allows you to ride silently anytime of day or night.

Saddle

• Comfort
  This isn’t the most comfortable saddle, but it’s not the worst either. While ProForm advertises this as an ergonomic, padded saddle, it could use a bit more support and cushioning. The slick exterior surface keeps it clean so it won’t absorb sweat or moisture and can be easily wiped off.

• Interchangeable
  This seat is interchangeable and can be swapped out for a different seat of your choice.

Console/Controls

Screen

• 10″ Touchscreen
  ProForm and NordicTrack both use the iFit program which displays nicely on this 10” screen. Personally, I can’t go much smaller than 10” — there is so much to see and enjoy in iFit, when you get down to a 7” screen, you miss a lot of the functionality. The Studio Bike Pro’s 10” touchscreen is actually close to perfect. Because you sit so close to the screen on an exercise bike, you don’t need it to be astronomically large to see everything. One nice thing about this screen is it leaves room along the bevel for control buttons, which is a really nice benefit.

• Screen Movement
  The screen pivots both up and down and swivels side to side. You can adjust as needed to reduce overhead glare or reposition when you stand up out of the saddle. The swivel feature also makes it so you can enjoy classes off the bike; just turn the screen to the side so you can easily hear and see what’s going on.

• Resolution
  Resolution is good. For a screen this size, it’s crisp and right in your line of vision.

• Touchscreen
  I love the touchscreen features! Aside from the button controls, the console is sleek and streamlined with most functionality embedded in the screen. This keeps the display clean and clutter-free. Touchscreen is responsive and I only had to tap the screen twice on one or two occasions.

• Functionality
  Overall the functionality of the console buttons and touchscreen is a nice combination. You can quickly jump between resistance or incline with just the touch of a button. Or, if you need more precise control,there are multiple display modes on the touchscreen.

Accessories

• Fans
  There are no fans on the Studio Bike Pro

• Weights
  Two, 3-pound weights come standard with the bike. These rest in a rack behind the seat. This is my preferred placement for weights. I don’t like having them in the front between the handlebars and the screen, so this design is better. You can easily reach behind to grab weights when needed. Since most riders won’t use weights every time, it’s nice to have them slightly out of the way.

  My only caution here is make sure to remove the weights before you tip and roll the bike! I’ve made the mistake several times of attempting to move my bike by rolling it forward and the weights come crashing down toward my toes. Place the weights on the floor before you roll your bike out of the way.

• Tablet/Phone holder/Water bottle holder
  There is no tablet or phone holder and no real storage on the bike at all. Since the handlebars are not padded, there’s not even a spot to gently rest your phone.

  There is a water bottle cage attached to the downtube that will hold one bottle.

Functionality

Performance

The Studio Pro is a nice, smooth ride. There are a few things that could be improved like saddle and handlebar comfort, but the flywheel has a nice feel and the pedal stroke is smooth. The bike syncs well with iFit programming so resistance is automated. I love this feature because it allows me to focus on the ride rather than have to constantly listen for prompts from the trainer.

Incline / Decline range

There is no incline or decline on the Studio Pro. Unlike the NordicTrack s22i or s15i, this bike has a set frame and does not pivot up and down.

Resistance Levels

22 Magnetic resistance levels give you lots of options. I love that the resistance is digitally calibrated! Too often really nice exercise bikes still use a friction-based resistance knob which is nearly impossible to specifically link to a resistance level. On the Studio Bike Pro you can select any level of resistance and it will be the same every time. This makes determining wattage and kilojoules much more accurate and it makes it easier to know exactly what level of resistance you are working against at any given time. Resistance can be adjusted via the control buttons on the console.

iFit Programming

Currently, if you sign up for iFit at $39/month membership for 3 years, you get your bike free! This deal is temporary, so watch for current promotions. iFit is a database of fitness classes and outdoor routes you can enjoy anytime of day or night! iFit includes over 16,000 workouts, such as:

• Personal Trainer Led Cycling Classes: These classes are filmed in a studio with a trainer on a bike in front of you and other participants riding alongside. Class options include a range of options such as: Intervals, HIIT, hill climb, calorie burn, sprint sessions, etc. The bike will automatically adjust to whatever the trainer is doing. If you begin a hill climb, your bike will automatically incline for you. Resistance is also automated in iFit. You control your speed. Manual controls on the screen or handlebars will override automation at any time should you need to adjust it. iFit will keep track of your stats for you.

• Outdoor Routes all over the world: No other program can compete with the extensive iFit rides all over the world. You can select a route in Bangladesh, London, or even just the mountains of Southern Utah. A trainer rides a bike ahead of you while another cyclist rides behind with a camera. You follow along from this perspective so you can see and hear what the trainer is doing. Again, incline and resistance is automated on the bike to match the terrain and grade of the ride. The videography on these rides is impressive. You not only watch from the perspective of the second rider, iFit will also occasionally add a drone shot or overhead view of the city or landscape while you ride.

• Cycling/Weight Combo Classes: These include options where you ride and do weights at the same time. The 3-pound weights are easy to grab during strength-training portions of the workout.

• Studio-Based Classes for off the bike: Other classes such as strength training, yoga, stretching, or even classes for pregnant mothers can be accessed through iFit and watched on your screen or from any computer or tablet for convenience.

Noise Level

The Studio Bike Pro is silent. We aren’t exaggerating, this bike makes literally no noise while riding. The only noise generated would be from the iFit volume or your heavy breathing!

Storage / Folding

The bike does not fold up, but the front mounted wheels make it easy to move. (Just remember to remove the weights first!)

The post ProForm Studio Bike Pro Review – Pros & Con’s (2024) appeared first on Treadmill Review Guru.

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Who It’s For: Fitness enthusiasts who want a bike with a rear flywheel and subscription training app

The Echelon EX-5 offers a few distinct features:

• The Echelon Fit app can be streamed to any phone, tablet or TV screen to display workout routines anywhere, anytime
• A tablet holder with adjustable clip on the handlebars will hold your device securely
• Echelon places the flywheel in the back, out of the “sweat zone” where there is less possibility of rust or damage to the flywheel
• 32 Magnetic resistance levels are quiet and provide abundant training options
• The Echelon EX-5 only weighs 124 pounds so it is lightweight and easy to move

In-depth Review of Echelon EX5s

Construction

Frame

Steel frame with horizontal stabilizers, leveling feet, and front wheels to roll the bike when needed. The flywheel sits low and rear, which centers the weight under the rider. Overall, design and geometry are sleek with black, gray, and red color scheme.

4 Points of Adjustment is more than often found on comparable exercise bikes.

• Seat moves up/down
• Seat moves forward/aft
• Handlebars slide forward/aft
• Handlebars move up/down

FlyWheel

29 pound flywheel glides smoothly. I’m not usually a fan of rear-flywheels, but the Echelon design is streamlined to offer a fluid pedal stroke and quiet drive train.

Handlebars

Handlebars offer multiple hand positions with both vertical and horizontal grips. Light padding offers just a touch of cushion.

Saddle

We love this saddle! It really is more comfortable than most exercise bikes. Saddle comfort matters because when you’re comfortable you can ride longer and get more out of your workout.

Console/Controls

Screen

• There is no screen. The EX5 is designed to hold a tablet or personal device on the handlebar mount.
• The tablet mount will swing gently so you can adjust it as needed.
• You have to pay for the Fit app and then when you log in, it will sync with the bike to relay cadence, resistance, calories, etc It’s nice to get digital metrics for your ride as opposed to just watching a spin class, but there is no LCD screen, cadence monitor, or anything else on the bike, so if you don’t use the app, bike functionality is just pedalling and resistance.

Accessories

• No fan
• Weight cages included, but weights purchased separately
• Water bottle tray under the handlebars

Functionality

Incline / Decline range

There is no incline or decline on the EX5.

Resistance Levels

32 magnetic resistance levels are adjusted via a tension knob on the down tube. I don’t love knobs, because they’re not as precise as buttons, but it moves easily and feels nice in your hand. Magnetic resistance is generated by magnets adjacent to the flywheel which oppose the motion, so there are no contact or friction points. This keeps resistance quiet and doesn’t cause wear on the flywheel.

Pre-programmed workouts

There are no pre-programmed workouts on the EX5. You can pedal and adjust resistance, but without the app, you don’t get any metrics or programs.

Subscription Options

Echelon’s Fit app is designed to sync with the bike. Fit has daily classes and a leaderboard and other functions similar to Peloton or NordicTrack. However, one complaint we frequently hear is the app is glitchy and not intuitive. You can get an Echelon bike for a reasonable price and the app comes at a discount when you buy the bike, but make sure this is the content you are willing to pay for. We’d also recommend checking out NordicTrack’s iFit app. It costs less, syncs with the bike and has an automated feature to adjust resistance and incline for you!

Noise Level

The bike is silent while riding and braking. The main noise comes from listening to the instructor on your tablet.

Storage / Folding

The EX5 does not fold, but wheels under the front stabilizer make it easy to move.

The post Echelon EX-5 Review – Pros & Con’s (2024) appeared first on Treadmill Review Guru.

If you’d prefer to use your own device, you can secure it to the console using the built-in integrated tablet holder. With the complimentary one-month iFit subscription, you can tap into the full benefits of this bike with unlimited training from certified personal trainers at your fingertips. These programs offer variety to suit different fitness goals. So if you want to lose weight or build endurance, you’ll find something for yourself.

The NordicTrack Commercial VU 19 Exercise Bike Featuring A 7″ Touchscreen For iFit Content.

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With a 19-pound flywheel, you can expect a decent riding experience. This lighter flywheel will not bring the smoothest ride available, but it is suitable for riders looking for a low-to-moderate intensity workout. However, it won’t be ideal for high-level athletes looking for high-intensity activities.

We like the 325-pound weight limit. This will allow most family members to enjoy the NordicTrack Commercial VU 19 exercise bike.

We think the NordicTrack Commercial VU 19 Exercise Bike is a good value. Especially since it is equipped to provide an exciting and interactive training experience. We’ll see if this exercise bike is for you in this spec review.

Who The NordicTrack VU 19 Bike Is For:

• Want a low-impact workout and weigh up to 325 pounds.
• Want a full-body, interactive activity.
• Want a low-maintenance piece of equipment.

NordicTrack Commercial VU 19 Exercise Bike Review

Frame

The compact upright frame (43.6″ L x 24.9″ W x 59.4″ H) of the VU 19 gives you many options for where you can use it. It’s sturdy and stable but light, with a fully assembled weight of just a bit over 100 lbs, making it easy for one person to move.

Drive System

The 19-pound flywheel is relatively light. However, if you don’t plan to use it for a super high-intensity workout, it will be suitable. A heavier flywheel would allow for a more challenging training experience and make the bike feel more substantial.

The 24 digital resistance levels are quick and easy. And thanks to SMRTM Silent Magnetic Resistance technology, this is a quiet piece of equipment that can be used in shared spaces.

Console

The 7” Smart HD color touchscreen is undoubtedly the star of the console, giving you access to settings, controls, and all those stats you like to track. The wireless technology onboard allows the console to connect with iFit. iFit offers an endless library of workouts to choose from. If you are into creating your own workouts, you can do that too. The iFit platform easily allows you to access all your past workouts. If you aren’t into online workouts, there is a selection of 32 onboard workouts to choose from.

When you choose a workout, it will control the resistance of the pedals, making it easier for you to concentrate on the work and not making adjustments. If you choose manual mode, you will have free reign to adjust the resistance with the up and down resistance buttons.

A glance down to the console is all you need to get the vital feedback you need to succeed with your fitness goals. Using the integrated heart rate monitor in the hand grips or a Bluetooth chest strap (sold separately) to keep an eye on your pulse can be a game-changer for targeted programs.

A fun option the VU 19 offers is the ability to output the console screen to a TV or monitor. Simply plug an HDMI cable (not included) into the console port and then to your TV or monitor and make it easy to keep track of everything.

The Bluetooth®3 compatible speakers allow you to pair your portable devices to the console wirelessly. You can also access the speakers using a 3.5 mm male-to-male audio cable (not included) into the auxiliary music port.

Heart Rate Monitoring

The EKG CardioGrip monitoring system makes it easy to check your heart rate as you’re pumping away. Simply squeeze the handlebars where the EKG sensors are to get an idea of your current pulse. This information can help you when doing heart rate targeted workouts. You can also use the onboard Bluetooth technology to monitor your pulse using the NordicTrack iFit Bluetooth® Smart Chest Strap, sold separately.

On-board Stats

Having a touch screen is excellent with this bike because there is so much real-time and past workout data to browse. You can navigate through the different display modes, which will dictate which workout information you will see.

Automatic Trainer Control

When you’re giving it your all, the Automatic Trainer Control takes away the guesswork. When choosing select iFit trainer-led workouts, the resistance is controlled for you to mimic the crisp real-world terrain you see on your display.

Programs/Workouts

Few home use bikes come with 32 workouts already onboard. When you combine those with all the workouts iFit brings to the table, you’ve got endless options to keep activities fresh and inspiring.

It’s easy to get rolling with a workout. Simply access the training of choice with the touchscreen, and away you go. NordicTrack knows the benefits of keeping things fresh, so the featured workouts on your console will change regularly. If you really enjoyed a featured ride, you can select it as a favorite so you can come back to it another time.

Manual mode puts you totally in the driver’s seat as far as resistance and pace. And if you’re feeling creative and want to take manual mode to the next level, you can create a Draw-Your-Own-Map workout. Find the area on the map where you’d like to begin your ride and simply touch the screen to add the starting point. Do the same for your ending point, and you have just created a custom workout ride.

Workout Fan

The AutoBreeze™ workout fan has multiple speed settings–including an auto mode. The auto mode allows the speed of the fan to increase or decrease as your pedaling speed changes automatically. Press the buttons to adjust the fan speed manually or to turn it off.

Seat Post and Saddle

It has an oversized adjustable seat with vertical and horizontal seat adjustments. For comfort and effective exercise, the seat needs to be at the proper height. There should be a slight bend in your knees when the pedals are in the lowest position.

Extra perks

• Transport Wheels: This makes moving the VU 19 easy.
• Integrated Pivoting Tablet Holder: No struggling to position your tablet or phone.
• Auxiliary Music Port: Use devices that aren’t Bluetooth friendly; 3.5 mm plug sold separately.
• Accessory tray: Perfect for catching whatever is in your pockets so you can move freely.

The post NordicTrack Commercial VU 19 Exercise Bike Review – 2024 appeared first on Treadmill Review Guru.

Many pieces of home fitness equipment nowadays require monthly subscriptions to use them, but the Ride CX does not. You can simply hop on and start pedaling, connect through Bluetooth to the ICG Training App, or use your phone/tablet and consume content of your choice.

In this Life Fitness Ride CX exercise bike review, I’ll tell you everything you need to know so you can decide if you want to take one home.

The Ride CX is a sturdy and comfortable ICG bike that lets you choose how you want to use it.

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Why You Should Trust Our Review Of The Life Fitness Ride CX

Our team tests out several of the best exercise bikes on the market. During this process, we rely on our experience as indoor cycling instructors, as well as our unique opportunity to have several bikes to hop back and forth from.

From riding one bike after another, we can get really acquainted with how the bikes all compare and contrast, as well as the individual experience they provide. When reviewing the Life Fitness Ride CX Exercise Bike, we compared it to the Bowflex C6, Sole SB900, NordicTrack S22i Inclining Bike, and the Peloton Bike.

​​Who The Life Fitness Ride CX Is For:

• Users who don’t want to be tied into a monthly subscription.
• Road cyclists looking to put in lots of miles indoors.
• Fitness enthusiasts who want options for how they can use their indoor cycling bike.
• Users who want extra motivation when riding, but not necessarily from a virtual instructor. The Coach By Color Training Concept is subtle, yet encouraging.
• Cyclists who want a sturdy bike that uses magnetic resistance so they can see their metrics like their resistance level and watt output.
• Users who want a solid, lightweight bike that is easy to move around their home.

Our Video Review of the Ride CX

In-depth Review of The Life Fitness Ride CX Exercise Bike

Interface, Content, and the ICG Training App

The interface on the Ride CX is small and straightforward. It’s battery-powered so the metrics are displayed when you start pedaling and it will turn off after a few minutes of not using the bike.

No electrical outlet or wifi connection is required to use the Ride CX.

Content

Our team likes that you can select the quick start mode and begin a workout on your own. As mentioned above, there’s no required monthly subscription fee to use the Ride CX and it doesn’t have trainer-led classes integrated into the console like on the Peloton Bike and NordicTrack S22i.

The Ride CX bike from Life Fitness displays your metrics like cadence in rpm, watt output, resistance level, kilocalories, distance, and speed in mph.

What I really like about this bike is its “Coach By Color Training Concept” which uses 5 colors to rate your intensity level. It’s similar to heart rate training, but instead of using your heart rate, it uses your power measured in watts.

The light is small and lights up in white, (as seen here) blue, green, yellow, and red.

The LCD screen is powered by the brand ICG “Indoor Cycling Group”, to use the patented color training technology and “WattRate” power meter.

Calculating Your FTP

To start using this feature, you select the power training mode and from there you’ll be asked to rate your fitness level and input your weight and gender. The bike will then give your estimated FTP, “Functional Threshold Power”. This is a number that represents an estimated watt output that is difficult for you to maintain based on the stats that you input.

From there, percentages of your FTP are calculated to be divided into ranges that are color-coded to show you your effort throughout your ride. There is a small light at the top of the console that lights up for whichever color zone you are in. White is the lowest intensity and generally the zone you warm-up and recover in. From there, your watts and effort increase as you ride through the other zones. After white, blue is slightly harder, then green, then yellow, and finally red is your maximum power zone.

You can also take one of the FTP tests to determine your FTP and monitor your individual progress as you become more fit. Additional metrics are shown when you use the power training mode, take an FTP test, and use the heart rate training mode.

Directions for taking the tests are displayed on the screen too, which is nice. I do wish an overview of all the color training zones was shown on the screen though.

Even though the Ride CX utilizes heart rate training, it doesn’t come with a heart rate monitor. We were a bit disappointed by this. You can find a list of compatible monitors to buy in the manual.

ICG Training App

The Ride CX from Life Fitness is Bluetooth enabled to connect to third-party apps like Zwift and the ICG Training App on your phone/tablet. The ICG Training App is $9.99 per month and is completely optional to use with the Ride CX bike.

The app offers some scenic rides, trainer-led studio classes, and music classes. These all utilize the “Coach By Color” training by suggesting which zones to be in throughout your ride. You can also take an FTP test through the app on the bike and record your workouts and save them on the ICG app.

Console

The console on the Life Fitness Ride CX bike consists of a small LCD screen and an entertainment tray. There is a navigation bar on the bottom of the screen which makes using the interface on the console easy. The console also has a backlight that can be turned on for a short period of time to see your metrics more easily.

The entertainment tray holds a phone or tablet just fine.

My phone is a little thicker when its case and PopSocket are on, so I had some trouble fitting my phone in the bottom lip and top strap on the entertainment tray. You might need to take your device out of the case to secure it.

The tray adjusts and can also be removed. The Ride CX gives you lots of options for entertainment, which we like.

Construction Quality & Durability

The Life Fitness Ride CX exercise bike is very sturdy and solid. It has 2 stabilizers, one on the front and one on the back. It also has 4 leveling feet to keep it securely in place and prevent any rocking of the bike.

Flywheel

The Ride CX has a rear flywheel. This placement of the flywheel helps to avoid getting sweat on it while in use. Over time, sweat can corrode the flywheel and cause damage. A rear flywheel helps minimize this and offers a bit less maintenance than front flywheels. So, this is just something to consider. The NordicTrack S22i, Peloton, Bowflex C6, and Sole SB900 all have front flywheels.

The Ride CX bike’s flywheel is also really lightweight. It only weighs 7.6 lbs compared to the Sole SB900 which weighs 48 lbs and the Bowflex C6 which weighs 40 lbs. Lighter flywheels (10 lbs and under) are typically easier to start and stop when pedaling and therefore can be a little bit gentler on the joints because they require less effort to get the flywheel to move.

The weight of the flywheel has no relation to the level of resistance that a bike provides.

We did notice that the flywheel does make a little bit of noise when you’re pedaling. It is not excessive, but it is a little bit louder than the other bikes, even the NordicTrack S22i which has an incline motor as well. Our team did not find it bothersome at all, just more as something to be aware of.

Resistance Type/Resistance Knob

The Ride CX uses magnetic resistance and so do all of the bikes that we compared it to. The 100 levels on the Ride CX seem to be an ample amount of resistance for all levels of riders, so you shouldn’t worry about not having enough.

The resistance knob is where you increase/decrease your resistance. As you turn the knob to the right, you can feel every increment as you add it on. This makes it easier to get to an exact resistance level.

When you push down on the resistance knob, it engages the brake which is very effective at quickly stopping the pedals.

Drive System

The Ride CX has hybrid pedals which I really like. They are compatible with SPD clip-in cleats and you can flip the pedal over and use the toe cages with regular athletic shoes.

The toe cages are plenty deep enough to fit your feet, and the adjustable strap can be tightened to fit securely around your shoes.

This makes it a little bit more user-friendly. The NordicTrack S22i only has toe cages on the pedals, and the Peloton bike uses Delta LOOK clip-ins which aren’t very common so you usually have to buy shoes for the bike separately.

On the Ride CX bike, there is a plastic panel that covers the drive system which would need to be removed for repairs. It uses a Poly-V belt drive system and has a smooth and consistent pedal stroke.

The Q-Factor (distance between the pedals) is also within an optimal range at 155 mm. You shouldn’t have any issues with your knees and joints being out of alignment when you ride the Ride CX.

Handlebars/Cockpit

I really like the handlebars on the Life Fitness Ride CX bike. The coating is smooth and feels of high quality. The NordicTrack S22i and Peloton both have grittier textured and thicker handles when compared to the Ride CX. Texture and handlebar thickness tends to be personal preferences.

While the handles do feel firm, they don’t feel quite as hard as the Sole SB900 handles. You could place a towel over the handles to prevent your hands from getting sore, but this wasn’t necessary for me when I was riding the Ride CX bike.

The handles also offer a wide variety of grip options, including drop handles that can be found on some road bikes.

The Ride CX handles have the most grip options out of all the bikes that we compared them to.

The 2 cupholders are attached under the handles for easy access. They held my 22oz water bottle in place. They are also covered in the same coating as the handlebars, which make them feel sturdy and of high quality as well.

Performance & Functionality

Overall, our team really enjoyed the Life Fitness Ride CX exercise bike and found it to be really comfortable for all of us. The saddle is narrow and lightly padded, which is great for long rides.

The saddle is contoured for more comfort.

The Ride CX has 4 adjustment points so the seat can move up/down and forward/back. The handles can be adjusted this way as well. For the seat and handlebar height, dials are used and there are small levers that adjust the handles and seat forward and back. The poles and rails at the adjustment points slide really easily, making adjusting this bike fast and simple.

The lever to adjust the handle is easy to use and small enough to not get in your way.

With the 4 adjustment points, this bike has a pretty wide leg span and reach span. The leg span is measured from the top of the saddle to the top of the lowest pedal. With the seat lowered all the way, it measures about 28 inches. Raised it measures about 41 inches.

The reach is measured from the nose of the saddle to the handlebars. The Ride CX bike has a maximum reach of about 23 inches and a minimum reach of about 14 inches. All of this means that the bike can accommodate taller and shorter riders.

Our tallest reviewer is 6’5” 230 lbs and I’m about 5’ tall and we were both comfortable on this bike and could sit and stand while pedaling easily.

The Life Fitness Ride CX has a weight capacity of 330 lbs, so it can handle a good amount of weight as well.

This bike is pretty light at 112 lbs. It’s very similar in weight to the Bowflex C6. This makes it easy to transport. There are 2 wheels on the front stabilizer on the Ride CX as well as a handle on the back stabilizer to make moving the bike around handy.

Warranty/Customer Service

Within the United States, the Ride CX has a 5-year warranty on the frame, a 3-year warranty on mechanical parts, and 1-year warranties on other parts and labor. It’s mentioned on the Life Fitness website that warranties outside of the U.S. may differ.

When delivered, the Ride CX comes unassembled, so just something to be aware of.

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