| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Resistance | Console | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Exerpeutic 4118 Check Discounted Price | L:54" W:22" H:34" | 300 lbs | Magnetic, 8 levels | Time, Distance, Odometer, Speed, Pulse, Calories, Goals, Bluetooth | 1 year |
Over the years, Exerpeutic has released several versions of the 900XL recumbent bike; we’ve already reviewed here the 1111 model. In this post, we’re going to cover one of the newer versions, the 4118 model, that was released at the beginning of 2019. Although this exercise bike has a pretty similar frame structure to the older versions, it comes with a different console that has Bluetooth and is compatible with the MyCloudFitness app.
Key Features and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 54L x 22W x 34H inches (137L x 56W x 86H cm)
- Product weight: 64.3 lbs (29 kg)
- Supported weight: 300 lbs (136 kg)
- Handlebar: Non-adjustable
- Seat: Adjustable
- Resistance: Manual magnetic, 8 levels
- Console: Time, distance, speed, odometer, pulse, calories, goals, Bluetooth
- Warranty: 1 year limited
Frame construction
To begin with, the Exerpeutic 900XL 4118 has a pretty durable frame for a home-use only recumbent 
exercise bike. It is rated for a user weight capacity of 300 lbs (136 kg), while most other models in this price and feature range can only support up to 250 lbs (113 kg).
The bike’s frame is made of steel tubing, combining cylindrical and rectangular bars. The main chassis is composed of two main parts, the rear section which supports the seat, and the front part which holds the drive and resistance elements.
All the steel parts in its frame construction are coated with a corrosion-resistant paint finish. The color used is light gray, this being the only color available for this model. Of course, the bike also incorporates several ABS parts. But these are mostly covers and do not play any role in the bike’s weight support. The most notable ones are the flywheel covers and the cover at the base of the seat post.
The fully assembled bike isn’t extremely large compared to other models, such as the Horizon Fitness Comfort R, for example, but still is approx. 54″ (137 cm) long, and 22″ (56 cm) wide. Plus, it is recommended to allow at least two feet of clearance all around it for safe usage.
The bike’s frame has a step-thru design. This can be quite a plus for users with certain disabilities. There are other recumbent bikes that do not offer this feature and stepping over the drive system unit in order to take a seat may be difficult for certain users.
The bike isn’t extremely heavy. With all the parts assembled, it weighs only 64.3 lbs (29 kg). Therefore, it can be carried and assembled by only one person. Plus, once it is assembled, it can be easily be moved via the two small wheels integrated into its front base.
Seat and handlebars
The Exerpeutic 900XL is equipped with a seat designed for optimal comfort. Both the seat pad and 
the backrest pad integrate approx. 1.5″ (4 cm) of foam padding while their upholstery is made of durable vinyl material. The seat is also fairly roomy, offering plenty of contact surface and excellent lumbar support.
The seat is adjustable. It is attached to a rail system which gives you the possibility to move it forward or backward. The locking device is a knob placed on the right side which allows you to easily adjust the seat without having to stand up.
The seat offers a fairly decent adjustment span. It is designed to accommodate users between 5’3″ and 6’5″ (160 – 196 cm). It can also support users up to 300 lbs (136 kg) with no problem. The backrest cannot be adjusted independently from the seat. It is directly attached to the seat’s metallic frame. You can’t adjust its height and it does not recline.
The Exerpeutic 4118 recumbent bike is equipped with two sets of handlebars, one is attached to the seat assembly, the other to the front mast. The seat handlebars integrate pulse sensors. The front handlebars are short and slightly curved towards the user in order to provide a more comfortable positioning. None of the handlebars are adjustable.
Drive and resistance
The bike is equipped with a precision-balanced flywheel for a smooth pedaling motion. Its exact 
weight is not specified, but considering that the whole bike doesn’t weigh more than 65 lbs, is internal flywheel probably doesn’t weigh more than 15 lbs (6.8 kg).
The flywheel allows reverse pedaling. However, since the drive system is simple, you cannot coast on the bike. Also, when pedaling in reverse, the resistance remains constant, given by the selected level.
This Exerpeutic exercise bike integrates a manual magnetic resistance system. It consists of an internal magnetic brake which is connected to the tension knob on the front bar of the bike through a steel cable. As you turn the knob clockwise, the brake moves closer to the flywheel and increases the pedaling difficulty.
Of course, since the bike’s resistance system is manual, the console does not play any role in the resistance adjustment. It does not have preset programs and cannot adjust the resistance automatically. Also, since the bike does not have an internal servo motor, it doesn’t require an external power source.
There are 8 resistance levels available. The first one provides a light pedaling difficulty great for users who require recovery training due to injuries or surgery. Conversely, the 8th resistance setting allows you to perform a more intense workout if you want to boost your cardiovascular level and burn some extra calories.
Like most other exercise bikes equipped with a magnetic resistance system, the Exerpeutic 900XL has a belt drive system. It uses a poly-v rubber belt designed for superior traction. As opposed to a chain drive, it does not require lubrication. Also, it promotes a very smooth, vibration-free pedaling sensation.
Finally, the bike integrates a durable crankset featuring two solid steel, chrome-coated crank arms. The included pedals have a self-leveling design and a non-slip surface. Plus, they are equipped with adjustable straps for extra foot stability.
Console
The bike’s console is actually quite similar to the console on the Exerpeutic 2000XL 4318 elliptical trainer. 
We’ve already mentioned that does not play any role for the resistance adjustment and does not have preset programs. So, this being said, it is just an exercise meter. It features a 3.5″ LCD display that can track the main workout metrics, including time, speed, distance, total distance, calories, and pulse.
The console unit allows you to select any of the workout metrics on the display. However, it also has a Scan Mode. If this function is selected, the workout values are shown in a sequence, each one appearing on the display for 6 seconds.
For speed and distance, the console uses English units (MPH and miles). There is no setting for metric units (kmh and kilometers). Also, in order to benefit from a pulse reading, you will have to hold on to the sensors integrated into the seat handlebars. The console cannot communicate with a wireless HR chest strap.
The meter unit offers the possibility to set up workout goals for time, distance, and calories. 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 unit will prompt you to increase or decrease in order to remain within the selected HR goal.
An important feature to mention here is the Bluetooth connectivity. This gives you the possibility to sync your exercise bike with your smartphone and track your progress online or view your workout history via the free MyCloudFitness app for iOS and Android.
The bike’s console requires two AA batteries as its power source. It starts up when it detects pedal movement and also turns off automatically if there is no activity on the bike for more than 4 minutes. Plus, the console also integrates a small phone or tablet shelf to keep your device at hand if you will be using the MyCloudFitness app.
Assembly and Maintenance
Although the drive and resistance elements come pre-assembled, the bike still requires some assembly. You will have to connect the two chassis pieces together, attach the base bars, the seat frame, the seat pads, the front mast, the console, and the pedals. This may take more than an hour, but the task is far from being complicated. Plus, the manual provides very clear assembly instructions and all the necessary tools for it are included.
Maintenance doesn’t require much. The internal parts don’t need any lubrication. Basically, all you need to do is periodically inspect the unit for loose bolts and parts, remove the dust from with a damp cloth and keep any liquids away from the console.
The Pros
- Sturdy frame – can support users up to 300 lbs;
- Adjustable rear stabilizers;
- Transport wheels included;
- Step-through frame design for easy access to the seat;
- Seat handlebars with pulse sensors;
- Front handlebars included;
- Padded seat and backrest, for optimal comfort;
- Multiple adjustment positions on the seat rail;
- Adjustable magnetic resistance offering 8 difficulty levels;
- Weighted pedals with adjustable straps;
- Exercise meter that can track time, distance, total distance, speed, calories, and pulse;
- Goal setting functions for time, distance, and calories;
- Bluetooth connectivity;
- Compatible with the free MyCloudFitness app for iOS and Android;
- Device holder included;
- Lightweight, easy to handle;
- Fairly easy to assemble;
- Little maintenance required.
The Cons
- No backlight on the console display;
- No bottle holder;
- A tablet placed on the device holder will cover the console display.
Summary
The Exerpeutic 900XL 4118 is a recumbent exercise bike equipped with a manual magnetic resistance system, a comfortable seat with multiple adjustment positions, and a Bluetooth capable console which is compatible with the MyCloudFitness App. Although it’s a bike made for home use, it does have a pretty sturdy construction being able to hold users up to 300 lbs. In all, it’s an excellent trainer for light to medium-intensity cardio workouts, muscle toning, weight loss, and even recovery training.