| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Resistance | Performance monitor | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
MaxKare 2-in-1 Check Discounted Price | L:45.9" W:19.1" H:33" | 242 lbs | Magnetic, 8 levels | Time, Distance, Odometer, Speed, RPM, Calories, Pulse, Goals, Scan | 1 year |
MaxKare offers several recumbent bikes but unfortunately, most of them don’t have their manufacturer number specified. So, this is the MaxKare Multifunction recumbent bike model, also referred to as MaxKare 2-in-1 recumbent bike. This particular trainer is equipped with a set of resistance ropes instead of a front handlebar and offers the possibility to perform multiple exercises. Thus, you can alternate pedaling sessions, with resistance rope curls, shoulder presses, or standing rows.
Key Features and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 45.9L x 19.1W x 33H inches (117L x 48.5W x 84H cm)
- Assembled weight: 55 lbs (25 kg)
- Max. user weight: 242 lbs (110 kg)
- Seat: Adjustable
- Drive: Belt
- Resistance: Magnetic, 8 levels
- Performance monitor: Time, distance, odometer, speed, RPM, calories, pulse, scan, goals
- Extras: Elastic ropes with D-handles
- Warranty: 1 year limited
Frame construction
The MaxKare 2-in-1 Multifunction recumbent bike features a steel frame combining rectangular and
cylindrical tubes in its construction. The only major non-metallic parts are the side covers of the drive system which are made of durable thermoplastic material. All the steel tubes are coated with a corrosion-resistant paint finish. The color used is dark gray, this being the only color available for this bike.
The fully assembled trainer is not too large compared to other recumbent bikes. It is approx. 45.9″ (117 cm) long, and 19.1″ (48.5 cm) wide. It is recommended, though, to leave at least two feet of clearance all around it, and maybe even more at the front, if you want to perform various rope exercises.
The bike is not extremely heavy. Its net weight is approx. 55 lbs (25 kg). This being said, it can be carried and assembled by only one person. Once it is assembled, it can easily be moved as its front stabilizer features a set of small wheels. Also, the rear stabilizer is equipped with a set of polygonal caps which can rotate and act as floor levelers.
One last aspect to mention here regards the bike’s step-through design. This feature can be quite a plus for users with certain disabilities as it allows easier entry and exit.
Seat and other parts
The MaxKare Multifunction recumbent exercise bike is equipped with an adjustable seat attached to 
an inclined rail. Its adjustment system uses a lever situated under the seat on the right side. Therefore, you can easily adjust the position of the seat without the need to stand up. The bike’s inseam range is 27″ – 35″ (68.5 – 88.9 cm). In other words, it should be able to accommodate users between 5’2″ and 6’4″ (157 – 193 cm), allowing a complete leg extension. Also, the seat assembly is rated for a maximum user weight limit of 242 lbs (110 kg).
The frame of the seat is made of a similar steel tubing as the rest of the frame. The lower pad is approx. 14.5″ (36.8 cm) wide, and 11″ (27.9 cm) deep. Thus, it provides plenty of contact surface. Both the seat pad and the backrest pad integrate a pretty thick (~ 2″ / 5 cm) layer of foam padding. Both pads are vinyl-covered for improved durability.
Although the whole seat assembly is adjustable, the backrest does not adjust independently from the rest of the seat. It attaches via screws to its metallic backbone and does not have a reclining feature. Its maximum height is approx. 33″ (84 cm).
The seat assembly also has a set of handlebars. These have standard grips with foam sleeves.
They also integrate metallic pulse sensors and the included performance monitor can track your pulse. Just like the backrest, the seat handlebar assembly cannot be adjusted independently from the seat.
Unlike most other recumbent bikes, this MaxKare model doesn’t have a set of front handlebars. Instead, it is equipped with a resistance rope system. The ropes go through a set of pulleys and offer the possibility to perform various exercises. You can use them while you are seated on the bike, and even during pedaling for a full-body cardio workout. Or, you can use them while standing up at the front of the bike. They basically offer the possibility to perform various exercises, like bicep curls, standing rows, arm extensions, seated rows, etc.
It’s important to mention that the resistance ropes do not have a difficulty adjustment system. You cannot add or reduce their tension. The exact workout load is not specified, but as a general idea, they’re not set for a super level of difficulty.
Resistance system
The MaxKare 2-in-1 Multifunction recumbent bike is equipped with a manual magnetic resistance
system. This being said, you don’t need a power adapter for it or an external power source. But on the other hand, the bike cannot adjust the resistance automatically like it is the case for motorized models.
The resistance system consists of an internal magnetic brake connected to the tension knob on the front unit of the bike through a steel cable. By turning the knob, the brake shifts its position in relation to the internal flywheel which results in more or less pedaling difficulty.
There are 8 tension levels marked on the knob. The first level provides a very light pedaling difficulty, which is great for users that require recovery training. The 7-8 levels, on the other hand, provide considerably more resistance, great for anyone who wants to burn more calories and improve their stamina.
The exact weight of the internal flywheel is not specified. However, since the bike’s net weight is only 55 lbs (25 kg), it probably doesn’t weigh more than 15 lbs (6.8 kg). It has a balanced structure for improved pedaling stability. It is also bi-directional. Therefore, you can pedal in reverse if you want but coasting is not possible. The pedals continue to spin for as long as the internal flywheel is spinning.
Like most other magnetic recumbent exercise bikes, the MaxKare 2-in-1 model is equipped with a belt drivetrain. This type of drive system offers a few advantages over a chain drive. For example, it generates less vibration so the pedaling motion is smoother. Also, you don’t need to take the front unit apart to periodically lubricate the belt.
The bike’s crankset is fairly durable featuring cylindrical chrome-plated arms. Evidently, it’s not meant for standing on the pedals, only for seated workouts. The pedals are made of durable thermoplastic material with a metallic center. They have a textured surface and adjustable straps for improved foot stability. They are also weighted in order to always turn face-up when you remove your feet from them.
Performance monitor
The included fitness monitor offers a few more features than the average basic model. First of all, it has an
LCD display that shows two workout metrics at the same time rather than just one. It tracks time, distance, total distance, speed, RPM, calories, and pulse. The unit is not telemetric, though. You cannot sync it with a fitness band or an HR chest strap for wireless pulse monitoring. It can only monitor your pulse if you hold on to the sensors integrated into the seat handlebars.
The performance monitor unit is equipped with three buttons. These are Mode, Set, and Reset. The Mode button allows you to scroll through the metrics and select the ones you want to view on the display. This way, you can also select the Scan Mode which automatically rotates them showing each one for a few seconds.
The Set button gives you the possibility to select targets for time, distance, or calories. If a workout target is selected, the unit will countdown from the selected value until it reaches zero. And finally, the Reset button clears all the values on the monitor unit to zero, except the odometer.
The unit is battery-powered. It starts tracking your distance, calories, etc. when you begin pedaling. It also automatically turns off if it does not detect any activity on the bike for several minutes. It does not have online connectivity and it is not compatible with any fitness apps.
Assembly and Maintenance
The base frame of the bike comes pre-assembled; the drive and resistance elements are already in their place, sealed by the plastic covers. The rest of the parts do require user assembly, though. You will have to attach the front base stabilizer, the rear stabilizer, assemble and attach the seat, the pedals, and the performance monitor. The process is straightforward and shouldn’t take more than an hour. The manual provides fairly clear assembly instructions and all the necessary tools are included.
Once the bike is assembled, maintenance doesn’t require much. You only have to keep it clean, and periodically check for loose bolts and parts. The internal parts do not need lubrication.
The Pros
- Sturdy frame – can support users up to 242 lbs;
- Adjustable stabilizers on the rear base;
- Transport wheels on the front base;
- Padded seat and backrest;
- Adjustable seat with a lever-based adjustment system;
- Seat inseam range 27″ – 35″;
- Pulse sensors integrated into the handlebars;
- Quiet magnetic resistance system;
- Adjustable resistance offering distinct 8 levels;
- Self-leveling pedals with straps;
- Performance monitor included – it can track time, distance, total distance, speed, RPM, pulse, and calories burned;
- Goal settings for time, distance, and calories;
- Resistance ropes with D-handles;
- Fairly easy to assemble;
- Assembly tools are included;
- Little maintenance required.
The Cons
- No device holder;
- No bottle holder;
- The pulse reading function is not too accurate.
Summary
The MaxKare 2-in-1 Multifunction recumbent bike is a fitness machine made for home use. It features a manual magnetic resistance system with 8 difficulty levels, a comfortable, 2-way adjustable seat, and a performance monitor that tracks time, distance, speed, RPM, pulse, and calories burned. It also features a resistance band system for various other exercises. It’s a fairly decent recumbent bike, great for a full-body cardio workout, muscle toning, and weight loss offering excellent value for the price.