| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Resistance | Console | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ECHANFIT 2901 Check Discounted Price | L:25.78" W:15.89" H:44.2" | 270 lbs | Magnetic, 16 levels | Time, Speed, Distance, Odometer, Calories, Pulse, SCAN | 1 year limited |
The ECHANFIT 2901 is an upright exercise bike that can be compared with the XTERRA FB150 or the ProGear 225. However, as opposed to these bike models, it offers a few extra features including resistance bands for arm exercises and 16 levels of resistance rather than just 8. It’s also space-saving and affordable.
Key Features and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 25.78L x 15.89W x 44.24H inches (65L x 40W x 112H cm)
- Assembled weight: 38.5 lbs (17.4 kg)
- Supported weight: 270 lbs (122 kg)
- Seat: 2-way adjustable
- Resistance: Magnetic, 16 levels
- Fitness meter: Time, distance, odometer, speed, calories, pulse, scan
- Extras: Resistance bands, phone holder
- Warranty: 1 year limited
Frame construction
The ECHANFIT 2901 upright bike features an X-type frame with a folding design. It consists of two
main pieces connected in the middle. One of the two parts supports the seat tube and the drive/resistance elements. The other part consists of two curved and parallel tubes; this part supports the handlebar, the console, and the two resistance bands.
All the bike’s steel bars are powder-coated with an abrasion-resistant and corrosion-resistant paint finish. The color used is black, this being the only color available for the moment. The ABS covers of the drive and resistance elements are also black, with the white/orange “ECHANFIT” logo.
Similar to other folding exercise bikes, the ECHANFIT 2901 model also has a small footprint. With the frame fully extended, it is approx. 25.7″ (65 cm) long, and 15.8″ (40 cm) wide. It still is recommended, though, to leave at least two feet of clearance all around it. Also, its height reaches approx. 44.2″ (112 cm) above floor level. Conversely, with the frame folded, the bike’s dimensions are 11.37″L x 15.89″W x 52.43″H (29 x 40 x 133 cm).
The bike is also fairly light. It weighs approx. 38.5 lbs (17.4 kg). Therefore, it can easily be carried and assembled by only one person. Plus, its front base is equipped with a set of small wheels that facilitate its relocation.
As we’ve mentioned above, the ECHANFIT 2901 bike includes a set of resistance bands for arm exercises. This is a plus, as many other folding upright bikes do not have this feature. Each band features a standard D-handle with a foam grip. Also, it’s important to mention that the resistance bands are attached to the front section of the frame and go through a set of small pulleys. This results in smoother usage and better control.
Seat and handlebars
The ECHANFIT 2901 is equipped with an extra-large seat. It is approx. 13″ (33 cm) wide, and 10″ (26 cm)
long so it provides plenty of contact surface. Its top is contoured and approx. 3″ (7 cm) thick for improved comfort.
Most folding upright exercise bikes have only a 2-way adjustable seat (up, down) and this particular model doesn’t make an exception. The seat post has several adjustment positions, so the bike can accommodate users up to 6’3″ (190 cm). Also, its construction is durable enough to support users up to 270 lbs (122 kg), which is not bad for a folding bike made for home use.
One last aspect about the bike’s seat that we must mention here regards its attachment system. The seat adjustment post is finished with a triangular plate; the seat attaches to it via three screws. Therefore, if you will ever need to replace it, you will have to find a similar seat model.
The bike is equipped with a multi-grip handlebar, similar to the one included with the pooboo X1. Its side grips are covered by a layer of rubber foam material in order to provide extra comfort. Also, its side grips integrate pulse sensors, and the included bike computer can track your pulse.
It’s important to mention that the bike’s handlebar is non-adjustable. It attaches to the top front section of the frame via two bolts/nuts. Therefore, you cannot adjust its height or its angle.
Drive and resistance
The ECHANFIT 2901 upright exercise bike is equipped with a manual magnetic resistance system. 
Therefore, it does not require a power adapter or an external power source. But on the other hand, it does not offer automatic resistance adjustment.
The main elements of the resistance system are a magnetic brake, a small internal lever, a steel cable, and the tension knob visible on the front section of the frame. The brake is attached to the knob through the steel cable. Therefore, when you turn the knob, the brake moves closer or farther from the internal flywheel which increases or decreases the workout load.
As opposed to other similar exercise bikes, the ECHANFIT 2901 offers extra micro-adjustment possibilities. Its tension system has 16 levels of adjustment. The first few levels deliver little resistance, great for warm-ups or very light workouts. Conversely, the 16th level of resistance simulates a hill climb and delivers enough pedaling tension for stamina development and muscle toning.
The weight of the internal flywheel is not specified. However, given the lightweight of the bike, it can’t be too heavy. It probably doesn’t weigh more than 10 lbs (4.5 kg) but does provide a smooth and quiet pedaling motion.
The flywheel allows reverse pedaling. Also, it’s important to mention that when pedaling in reverse, the resistance is maintained. In other words, if you select the 10th tension level, for example, you will benefit from the same workout load whether you pedal forward or backward.
The bike’s transmission uses a poly-v belt. This being said, the pedaling motion is very quiet and vibration-free. Also, as opposed to a chain drive, it doesn’t require lubrication. So, you don’t have to worry about taking the drive unit of the bike apart to lubricate the transmission.
Last but not least, the bike is equipped with a durable 3-piece crankset. It uses slightly longer and thicker crank arms, but since it is an upright bike, it is not meant for standing on the pedals or other types of spin workouts. The included pedals are weighted (self-leveling). They have a non-slip surface and adjustable straps for extra foot stability.
Bike computer
As we’ve mentioned above, the ECHANFIT 2901 bike does not have automatic resistance control, so the
included bike computer does not have preset workout programs. It also doesn’t have online connectivity. It’s pretty much only an exercise meter.
The computer unit features an LCD display that tracks time, distance, total distance (odometer), speed, calories, and pulse. Speed and distance are shown in English units (MPH and miles). There is no possibility to change them to Metric units. Also, the computer unit is not telemetric. In other words, it can only track your pulse if you hold on to the EKG metallic sensors integrated into the handlebar.
The computer unit is very easy to use. It only has one button which covers all its functions. By pressing it repeatedly, you can select the workout metric that you want to view on the display. Also, this way you can select the Scan Mode; when the Scan Mode is selected, all the workout metrics are put in a sequence, each one appearing on the display for a few seconds.
A reset function is available as well. You can press and hold the button for a few seconds and all the values on it will be reduced to zero.
Last but not least, the meter unit has a self shutdown function. It does not detect any activity on the bike for a few minutes, it will automatically turn off to save battery life.
Assembly and Maintenance
The two main components for the frame come already attached together. Also, all the drive and resistance elements are pre-assembled. You only need to add the two base bars, the seat post, the seat, the handlebars, the pedals, and the exercise meter. This shouldn’t take more than one hour. The task is straightforward and the manual provides pretty clear assembly instructions. Also, all the necessary tools are included.
Once the bike is assembled, you don’t have to do much in terms of maintenance. All the internal components are pre-lubricated from the factory, and since the bike has a belt drive system, it doesn’t require any lubrication. Thus, all you have to do is wipe the dust from the frame and periodically check for loose parts and bolts.
The Pros
- X-type frame, folding design;
- Fairly sturdy frame – supports riders up to 270 lbs;
- Small footprint;
- Transport wheels included;
- Highly comfortable, large seat, offering 2-way adjustability;
- Multi-grip handlebar with rubberized grips;
- Pulse sensors integrated into the handlebar;
- Heavy-duty crankset with weighted pedals;
- Smooth and quiet operation;
- 16 levels of magnetic resistance;
- Exercise meter included – it tracks time, distance, total distance, speed, calories, and pulse;
- Phone holder integrated into the exercise meter;
- Elastic bands with pulleys included;
- Easy to assemble;
- Very little maintenance required.
The Cons
- No bottle holder;
- No backlight on the fitness meter.
Summary
The ECHANFIT 2901 is a folding upright exercise bike made for home use. It features a 16-level magnetic resistance system, a quiet internal belt drive, a large comfortable seat with multiple adjustment positions, and an exercise meter that tracks all the important workout metrics. It also includes a set of resistance bands for arm exercises. It’s an excellent bike for light cardio workouts, muscle toning, improving stamina and losing weight. It’s also affordable, offering fairly decent value for the price.