| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Incline | Resistance | Console |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Exerpeutic 2000XLST Check Discounted Price | L:54" W:23" H:63" | 300 lbs | No | Manual magnetic, 8 levels | Time, Distance, Odometer, Speed, Calories, Pulse, Goals, Bluetooth |
The Exerpeutic 2000XL elliptical trainer features a similar construction to the 2000XLST model that we’ve already covered. However, it has a manual resistance system (not automatic) and includes a console that doesn’t have preset workout programs. Also, since Exerpeutic has released quite a few XL ellipticals over the years, it’s important to mention here that this is the part number 4318, the one released at the beginning of 2019.
Key Features and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 54L x 23W x 63H inches (137L x 58W x 160H cm)
- Assembled weight: 74.5 lbs (33.7 kg)
- Supported weight: 300 lbs (136 kg)
- Incline: No
- Resistance: Manual magnetic, 8 levels
- Console: Time, distance, odometer, speed, calories, pulse, goals, Bluetooth
- Extras: Phone holder
- Warranty: Frame 1 year, parts 90 days
Frame and parts
The Exerpeutic 2000XL features a steel frame with an ABS casing for the drive system. Its pedal trays 
are also made of ABS material, as well as all the joint protective covers. However, the pedals rest on steel bars and the machine is rated for a user weight capacity of 300 lbs (136 kg) which is not bad for a machine made for home use.
All the steel parts in the unit’s construction feature a durable, corrosion-resistant powder coating. The color of the paint finish is gray, this being the only color available for this trainer. The ABS parts are black with orange elements on the drive casing and console.
The fully assembled machine isn’t too large compared to other ellipticals, such as the Fuel Fitness E5, for example. It is only 54″ (137 cm) long, and 23″ (58 cm) wide. However, it is recommended to allow at least two feet of clearance all around the unit for safe usage.
The unit is not extremely heavy either but does weigh approx. 75 lbs (33.7 kg), so the transport of the boxed unit may require two people. But once it is assembled, it can be easily be moved by only one person as its front base has transport wheels. Also, the rear base of the unit features polygonal end caps which can rotate and serve as adjustable stabilizers.
The machine’s pedals have a standard layout. They don’t have any additional articulation or cushioning. The pedal trays are fairly large, though, designed to accommodate athletic shoes of all sizes. They have a ribbed surface for superior adherence and inner/front guards for extra foot stability.
This Exerpeutic elliptical trainer is equipped with two sets of handlebars, one fixed and one mobile. The fixed handlebars are attached directly to the console mast. They integrate pulse sensors and the console can track your pulse if you hold on to them.
The mobile handlebars have fairly long grips; they reach up to 63″ (160 cm) above floor level and also have ball grips at the top. They are attached to the front mast and to the pedals as well, so they continue to move for as long as you pedal. Both types of handlebars feature rubberized grips for optimal comfort.
Elliptical path, stride, and step-up height
The Exerpeutic 2000XL is a rear-drive elliptical trainer. This means that its elliptical path is slightly 
inclined forward. Therefore, a ride on this machine feels like moving downwards on a soft ramp. This can be considered a plus as it puts more focus on your glutes and thighs.
The exact stride length of this Exerpeutic elliptical trainer is not specified. However, since it has a similar construction to the 2000XLST model, it probably has a similar 13″ – 14″ (33 – 35 cm) stride. This being said, the machine can accommodate comfortably users between 5’1″ and 6’2″ (155 – 188 cm). Taller users should also be able to use the machine, but they may not benefit from a complete and satisfying range of motion.
The pedal step-up height is approx. 8″ (20 cm). However, the highest point of each pedal reaches approx. 16″ (40 cm) above floor level. Thus, it is recommended to use the machine in a room with a ceiling that is at least 20″ (51 cm) higher than your own height.
Drive and resistance
The Exerpeutic 2000XL elliptical trainer is equipped with a belt drive system. This means you don’t
have to take the covers apart to lubricate the transmission as it is the case for chain-drive machines. Also, a belt drive generates less vibration than a chain drive during pedaling, which contributes to the overall smoothness of the ride.
The machine integrates a bi-directional flywheel. This means you can pedal in reverse if you want, giving you the possibility to put some diversity into your workouts. Also, when pedaling in reverse, the console continues to monitor distance traveled, calories burned and the other metrics. The exact weight of the internal flywheel is not specified, but considering that the overall weight of the machine is only ~75 lbs (33.7 kg), the flywheels shouldn’t weight more than 10-15 lbs (4.5 – 6.8 kg).
This Exerpeutic elliptical machine features a manual magnetic resistance system. This being said, you don’t have to connect it to a power source in order to adjust the resistance. Also, the console cannot adjust the resistance automatically.
The unit’s resistance system consists of a magnetic brake which is connected to the tension knob on the front upright frame bar. When you turn the tension knob clockwise, the brake moves closer to the flywheel which increases the workout load. Conversely, if you turn the knob counter-clockwise, the brake moves away from the flywheel which leads to less magnetic drag and a lower pedaling difficulty.
The elliptical makes available 8 tension levels. The first level delivers a very light resistance, great for a low-intensity cardio workout. The 7-8 tension levels, on the other hand, deliver considerably more resistance, giving you the possibility to perform a more intense workout and burn more calories.
Console
As we’ve mentioned above, the Exerpeutic 2000XL (4318) elliptical trainer does not have an 
electronic resistance system. Therefore, its console is only a basic fitness meter. However, it has Bluetooth connectivity and can communicate with the free MyCloudFitness app for iOS and Android. This app not only offers a nicer interface to work with, but it also offers the possibility to keep track of your progress.
But nonetheless, if you won’t be using the app, the unit’s console can still show your workout metrics and has several other functions. To begin with, it has an LCD display with extra-large digits for better readability. It tracks time, distance, total distance, calories burned, speed, and pulse. The console can read your pulse through the integrated sensors, but it can also communicate with the MyCloudFitness Bluetooth HR chest strap, for a wireless pulse reading. This accessory is not included, though.
The console does not have preset workout programs but does offer the possibility to set up workout goals for time, distance, and calories burned. If a goal is set for any of these values, the display will show the remaining value up to reaching the set goal. You can also set up a goal for your Heart Rate and the console will prompt you to increase or decrease your pedaling speed in case you fall under the selected goal or exceed it.
The console is battery-powered. It requires two AA batteries. It starts when you begin your workout on the machine or when you press one of the buttons, but it also has a sleep mode to which it will enter if it doesn’t detect any activity on the machine for a few minutes.
Assembly and Maintenance
The main body of the elliptical comes in one piece. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about assembling its drive and resistance elements. However, you still have to attach its base bars, pedals, front mast, handlebars, console, and connect the resistance and sensors wires. This can take more than one hour, but the manual provides very clear instructions with regards to the machine’s assembly. Also, a basic toolkit for the assembly is included.
For maintenance, you should keep the unit clean. The lubrication of its joints may be required. Also, it is recommended to check for loose bolts and parts periodically.
The Pros
- Sturdy construction – can support users up to 300 lbs;
- Fairly small footprint;
- Adjustable stabilizers on the rear base;
- Transport wheels on the front base;
- Fixed and mobile handlebars;
- Bi-directional and balanced flywheel providing a smooth and steady pedaling motion with a consistent momentum;
- Large, solid pedals with a ribbed surface for improved contact;
- 8 levels of magnetic resistance;
- The console can track time, speed, pulse, distance, total distance, and calories burned;
- Goal functions for time, distance, speed, and calories;
- Bluetooth function and compatibility with the free MyCloudFitness app for iOS and Android;
- Tablet holder included;
- Quiet operation;
- Easy to assemble;
- Little maintenance required.
The Cons
- HR chest belt not included;
- No bottle holder;
- No backlight on the console display.
Summary
The Exerpeutic 2000XL (4318) is an elliptical cross trainer designed for home use. It features a pretty durable construction rated for users up to 300 lbs. It has a manual magnetic resistance system and a console compatible with the free MyCloudFitness app. It’s an excellent machine for light to medium-intensity and low impact cardio training, muscle toning, weight loss, and stamina development.