| Unit | Size | Shipping weight | Supported weight | Resistance | Console |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
SereneLife SLEPL9 Check Discounted Price | L:23.62" W:16.92" H:11.81" | 29.4 lbs | 300 lbs | Magnetic, 8 levels | Time, Count, T-Count, Calories, Scan |
The SereneLife SLEPL9 is one of the under-desk elliptical machines released in 2020. In terms of features, it is similar to the Marcy NS-1009 model. However, its resistance system features an adjustment knob, not a lever. Also, the unit is slightly smaller.
Key Features and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 23.62L x 16.92W x 11.81H inches (60L x 43W x 30H cm)
- Shipping weight: 29.4 lbs (13.36 kg)
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs (136 kg)
- Stride length: 6 inches (15 cm)
- Drive: Belt
- Resistance: Manual magnetic, 8 levels
- Fitness monitor: Time, count, total count, calories, scan
- Extras: Resistance bands
- Warranty: Frame 2 years
Frame construction and accessories
The SereneLife SLEPL9 under-desk elliptical is constructed on a steel frame, but most of its body is concealed by a set
of covers made of durable polypropylene material. The front stabilizer and the plate on which the wheels of the pedals slide are also steel-made. All the steel parts are coated with a black paint finish.
Like most other under-desk elliptical trainers, the SereneLife SLEPL9 model is fairly small. It is approx. 23.62″ (60 cm) long, and 16.92″ (43 cm) wide. Also, its highest point is at approx. 11.81″ (30 cm) above the floor level.
The unit is not too heavy either. Its gross weight is approx. 29.4 lbs (13.36 kg), so it can be carried and assembled by only one person. The polypropylene casing of the machine features a handle at the top, so the unit offers a fairly decent portability.
In terms of accessories, we can mention the two included elastic cords for arm exercises. They have standard D-handles with foam grips for improved comfort. They attach to the front stabilizer of the machine. You can use these while seated or hold on to them for extra stability if pedaling while standing up.
Pedal construction and drive system
The SereneLife SLEPL9 elliptical machine features a large set of pedals. Their base is steel-made while their 
trays are made of thermoplastic material. They have a ribbed surface and side guards for extra foot stability. However, they do not have straps like the pedals of the Cubii JR2. Needless to say, the unit’s stride is fairly small, approx. 6″ (15 cm).
The pedals attach on one end to the machine’s crank arms and have large wheels on the other end. The wheels have sealed ball bearings and a thick layer of silicone rubber on the outside for a smooth and quiet motion. They slide on a large metallic plate at the base of the unit.
An important aspect to mention here is that you can pedal while standing up. The unit is rated for a maximum user weight limit lf 300 lbs (136 kg). If used for a standing-up workout, the metallic plate and the wheels of the pedals should be in front of the user. Conversely, if used while seated, it’s best that the crankset of the machine is in front of the user.
The unit has a small internal flywheel. Its exact weight is not specified, but since the whole unit weighs only ~28 lbs (~13 kg), the flywheel probably doesn’t weigh more than 6 lbs (2.7 kg). It is perimeter-weighted, though, for improved stability. It is also bi-directional.
The unit has an internal belt drive system. It uses a poly-v belt that connects the main pulley to the flywheel. Since it’s a belt, not a chain, it does not require periodic lubrication, so you don’t have to go through the hassle of taking the unit apart for this purpose.
Resistance system
The SereneLife SLEPL9 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 machine does not adjust the resistance automatically.
The resistance system consists of a magnetic brake placed under the internal flywheel and connected to the unit’s adjustment knob through a steel cable. Therefore, when you turn the knob clockwise, the magnets change their position in relation to the flywheel, which increases or decreases the pedaling load.
The main advantage of this magnetic resistance system is that the brake does not touch the flywheel. Therefore, the pedaling motion is very smooth and quiet. Also, you don’t have to worry about brake pad replacements or lubrication.
Like many other elliptical trainers with a manual magnetic resistance system, the unit offers 8 difficulty levels. The first level offers a fairly light pedaling difficulty, great for users who require recovery training. Conversely, the 8th level of resistance provides considerably more resistance for improved stamina and muscle toning.
Fitness monitor
The SereneLife SLEPL9 under-desk elliptical is equipped with a basic fitness monitor. It features a small LCD display that
tracks time, calories burned, count (number of strides for the current workout), and total count (number of strides since the first use of the machine). It does not show distance, speed, or watts. It also does not have a pulse reading function.
The monitor unit is pretty easy to use. It only has one button. If you press it repeatedly, you can select the workout metric that you want to view on the display. There is a scan mode as well, which you can select in the same way. In scan mode, the display alternates the workout metrics showing each one for 6 seconds. And finally, the button also covers the unit’s reset function. You can press and hold the button for 4 seconds to clear all the data to zero.
The monitor unit is battery-powered. It requires one LR44 (1.5 V) battery which is included. The unit starts up when you begin pedaling or when you push the button. It also automatically turns off after a few minutes of inactivity on the trainer.
Assembly and Maintenance
The main body of the trainer comes pre-assembled. You only need to attach the pedals and the two elastic bands. The manual provides clear instructions for the task, and all the necessary tools are included.
Maintenance also doesn’t require much. The internal parts do not need any lubrication. So, in terms of maintenance, you only have to keep the unit clean and periodically inspect it for loose or damaged parts.
The Pros
- Small footprint;
- Durable construction – can support users up to 300 lbs (136 kg);
- Lifting handle for easy portability;
- Large pedals with a textured surface;
- Elastic bands for arm exercises;
- Silicone pedal wheels for reduced noise;
- Zero-friction, magnetic resistance system (8 levels);
- Belt drive system for a smooth and quiet pedaling motion;
- Fitness monitor integrated into the unit – it tracks time, count, total count, and calories burned;
- Easy to assemble;
- All the tools necessary for the assembly are included;
- Battery for the monitor is included;
- Little maintenance required.
The Cons
- No pulse reading function;
- No backlight on the fitness monitor.
Summary
The SereneLife SLEPL9 is an under-desk elliptical trainer made for home or office use. It is equipped with an 8-level magnetic resistance system, a set of large and durable pedals, and a fitness monitor that tracks time, count, total count, and calories burned. A set of elastic bands for arm exercises is also included with the trainer. It’s a great machine for recovery training, muscle toning, stamina development, and weight loss.