Unit | Size | Supported weight | Resistance | Flywheel | Console |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Akonza 049-SE-50100-RD Check Discounted Price | L:40.5" W:21.2" H:47.2" | 330 lbs | Friction | 40 lbs | Speed, Time, Distance, ODO, Calories, Pulse, Scan |
The Akonza Revolution Cycle is an entry-level indoor cycling bike and also one of the most affordable trainers that come with an exercise meter. It’s a belt-drive bike with a friction resistance system. In terms of features, it can be compared with the XtremepowerUS bike or the L-NOW D601. However, it does not have the drop-down handlebar grips as the L-NOW model.
There are several versions of the Akonza Revolution Cycle. Their construction is the same, but they have different color combinations. Their core model number is 049-SE-50100 with “WHT” or “RD” at the end, depending on the selected color. In this post, we’re addressing the 049-SE-50100-RD (red) version which is shown in the annexed photos.
Key Features and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 40.5L x 21.2W x 47.2H inches (103L x 54W x 120H cm)
- Assembled weight: 72 lbs (32.6 kg)
- Flywheel weight: 40 lbs (18 kg)
- Supported weight: 330 lbs (150 kg)
- Seat: 4-way adjustable
- Drive: Belt
- Resistance: Standard friction
- Exercise meter: Time, distance, odometer, speed, calories, pulse, scan
- Extras: Bottle holder, metallic bottle
- Warranty: 1 year limited
Frame construction
The Akonza Revolution Cycle features a steel frame with a triangular shape for improved sturdiness. The main bars in its construction are slightly curved for improved aesthetics and durability, similar to the Bladez GS II cycle.
The bike has a lighter construction compared to other similar models. Even though it has a pretty heavy flywheel (40 lbs), the fully assembled unit only weighs approx. 72 lbs (32.6 kg). This means it can be transported and assembled by only one person. Also, once the bike is assembled, its relocation can be done with ease by using its integrated transport wheels.
All the steel parts in the bike’s frame construction are coated with a thick, corrosion-resistant paint finish. As we’ve mentioned above, there are several color versions for this bike. You can have it in Red-Black, Blue-Black, White-Black, Black-White, or Turquoise-Black.
The fully assembled bike isn’t extremely large. It takes 40.5″L x 21.2″W (103 x 54 cm) of floor space, while its highest point reaches approx. 47″ (120 cm) above floor level when the handlebar is set to the highest position. Plus, it is recommended to leave at least two feet of clearance all around it for safe usage.
This Akonza stationary cycle is rated for a weight capacity of 330 lbs (150 kg), which is not bad for a home-use exercise bike. However, considering that there are other cycles with a thicker frame rated for a weight capacity of only 265-275 lbs, we don’t recommend this indoor cycling bike for users heavier than 275 lbs (125 kg).
One last aspect to mention here regards the bike’s base bars. They’re both equipped with concealed adjustable levelers which allow you to perfectly level it on any type of floor.
Seat and handlebars
The Akonza Revolution Cycle includes a saddle designed for optimal comfort. For the Red version (049-SE-50100-RD) that we’re covering here, it is a bit thicker and has rear suspension springs. Other versions have slimmer seats but with a bit of extra cushioning and a contoured top.
The bike’s seat is four-way adjustable (front, back, up, down). Its upright post offers approx. 6.5″ (16.5 cm) of adjustment, while its horizontal slider provides 2.7″ (6.8 cm) of extra front-to-back adjustment. This being said, the bike can accommodate users between 5’0″ and 6’3″ (153 – 190 cm) with no problem, allowing a complete leg extension.
The bike’s handlebar only offers 2-way adjustability (up, down). Its adjustment span is approx. 6″ (15 cm). It has a multi-grip design, with a loop aero bar at the center to which you can attach the exercise meter.
The side grips of the handlebar are covered by a layer of rubber foam material in order to provide a more secure and comfortable grip. They also integrate pulse sensors and the included exercise meter has a pulse tracking function.
Resistance and drive
Several websites improperly describe this Akonza cycle as a magnetic exercise bike. It does not have a magnetic resistance system. It is equipped with a standard friction resistance system which consists of a felt pad attached to the tension knob on top of the frame. In order to increase the resistance, you simply have to turn the tension knob clockwise which enables the brake pad to apply more friction to the flywheel.
Needless to say, the bike’s resistance system requires manual action. The bike’s console cannot adjust the resistance automatically. But on the other hand, the bike does not require a power source.
The bike’s resistance system doesn’t have pre-determined levels marked on the tension knob. You simply tighten it until you get the resistance you need for your workout.
The Akonza Revolution Cycle integrated a pretty heavy flywheel for a light indoor cycling bike. It weighs 40 lbs (18 kg) and has a perimeter-weighted structure. This means it is designed for improved inertia which is great for spin workouts. The flywheel is bi-directional. Thus, you can pedal in reverse if you want to alternate workouts.
The bike’s drive system uses a belt. It is a durable poly-v belt which promotes a quiet and smooth pedaling motion. It also eliminates the hassle of periodic lubrication.
Finally, this indoor cycling bike is equipped with a sturdy 3-piece crankset. Its arms are steel-made so they can support pedaling while standing up. Also, the included pedals are made of aluminum alloy. They are equipped with toe cages and have 9/16 (standard) threads.
Exercise meter
The Akonza 049-SE-50100 indoor cycling bike comes with a basic fitness meter, similar to the one included with the Efitment IC029 bike. It features an LCD display that tracks time, speed, distance, total distance, calories, and pulse. It doesn’t have any workout programs and cannot communicate with any online fitness apps or wireless HR chest straps. It can only read your pulse through the sensors integrated into the handlebars.
The meter unit is quite easy to use. It only has one (MODE) button. The button allows you to toggle ON and Off the unit’s SCAN function, which rotates the workout values, showing each one for several seconds. As you stop the SCAN function, you can select time, speed or any of the other workout statistics to be shown on screen all the time. Also, by pressing and holding the MODE button you can clear all the values on the meter to zero.
The unit is battery powered. It requires two AA batteries. It starts up when you begin pedaling or when you push the button. It also has a sleep mode which is initiated if there is no activity on the bike for several minutes.
Assembly and Maintenance
The bike’s frame with the flywheel, belt, brake, and crankset comes pre-assembled. You only have to add the two base bars, the seat, the handlebars, the exercise meter, and the pedals. This shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes. A set of basic tools for the assembly is included. Also, the included manual provides step-by-step assembly instructions.
Since it’s a belt-drive bike, its transmission doesn’t require lubrication. Therefore, the only maintenance that might be required is lubricating the brake pad (with a few drops of silicone lubricant), and inspecting the bike for loose parts from time to time.
The Pros
- Sturdy frame – rated for 330 lbs;
- Adjustable stabilizers on both bases;
- Transport wheels included;
- 4-way adjustable seat;
- Multi-grip handlebar;
- Pulse sensors incorporated into the handlebar;
- Smooth and quiet belt drive;
- Inertia-enhanced and bi-directional 40 lbs flywheel;
- Friction resistance, which basically offers tension up to the point you can barely pedal;
- Aluminum alloy pedals with adjustable toe cages;
- Bottle holder included;
- Stainless steel bottle included;
- Included fitness meter, which tracks speed, time, distance, calories and pulse;
- Easy to assemble;
- Little maintenance required.
The Cons
- No backlight on the exercise meter;
- No smartphone holder.
Summary
The Akonza Revolution Cycle 049-SE-50100-RD is an indoor cycling bike designed for home use. It is equipped with a 40-lb flyhweel, a friction resistance system, and a 4-way adjustable seat. It also includes a fitness meter to keep an eye on your workout stats and heart rate. It can support most spin workouts which makes it great for intense cardio training, stamina development, and weight loss. And finally, as we’ve mentioned above, it is one of the most affordable indoor cycling bikes with an included exercise meter, currently available for less than $200.