| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Stride | Console | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Body Rider BR1830 Check Discounted Price | L:35.6" W:20.1" H:57.7" | 250 lbs | 12" | Basic | Frame: 1 year Parts: 90 days |
If you don’t want to spend too much on an elliptical trainer, but still want one to exercise within your own home, you have to be careful about the model you choose. That’s because many of the cheap models, are also cheaply made. However, there still are several models under the $150 mark, which are quite decent. One of them is the BR1830 Body Rider.
This elliptical is a basic model, but with a pretty decent construction. It doesn’t offer a wide range of features and functions, but it can supply the required training setting for a light cardio workout. It also features a basic console for quantifying your training.
Technical Details and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 35.6L x 20.1W x 57.7H inches (90.4L x 51W x 146.5H cm)
- Assembled weight: 58 lbs (26.3 kg)
- Supported weight: 250 lbs (113.3 kg)
- Stride: 12 inches (30.4 cm)
- Incline: No
- Footplates: Standard, ribbed
- Resistance system: Air
- Resistance: Adjustable
- Progress tracking console: Yes
- Bottle/Cup holder: No
- Warranty: 1 years frame / 90 days parts
Resistance and drive type
The Body Rider BR1830 features a fan resistance system. It basically functions by the same principle as air rowers such as the Stamina ATS 35-1405 or Sole SR500, for example. As the fan spins, the air generates the resistance required for your workout. The resistance system features a friction belt which can be adjusted via turning the tension knob on top of the main tube of the frame. There are no resistance levels specified on the knob, but as a general idea, this machine doesn’t offer a really consistent top resistance setting. However, there’s the possibility to adjust 
the overall resistance of the machine by re-strapping the tension belt. The manual provides instructions on how to do this.
The drive system of the machine features a transmission chain not a belt, which connects the fan with the crankset. The specs of the chain are 1/4″ x 204 links. The crank of this elliptical trainer is pretty solid, with steel-made crank arms. It can actually support users up to 250 lbs (113.3 kg).
The footplates are pretty large and can easily accommodate just about any size of athletic shoes. They also features an anti-slip, ribbed design. Since it’s one of the cheapest models of elliptical trainers, the footplates do not feature any type of cusioning or articulation; they’re fixed. This shouldn’t impact your workout too much, though. Like most elliptical trainers, this Body Rider fan model offers a pretty smooth stepping motion, with a minimal impact on the joints.
Stride
The Body Rider BR1830 features a short action stride. It simulates walking or marching, rather than running. The stride length is cca 12″ (30.4 cm), and it’s non-adjustable. Therefore, in case you want an elliptical with a wider stride, the Schwinn A40 or the Nautilus E614 offer strides of 17.5″ (44.5), and respectively 20″ (51 cm).
The user elevation from the floor given by the pedals at their highest point, is about 15″. So, in order to make sure you have the right ceiling height for the use of this machine at home, make sure to add this amount to your own height, plus a couple more inches, just to be sure.
Frame and handlebars
This Body Rider elliptical trainer is equipped with only one set of handlebars. However, these bars can be mounted for dual-action or for fixed action. They feature quick-disconnect knobs, which allow you
to easily move them from the mobile coupler bars which connect to the pedals for mobile-action, and place them into the fixed tubes between the coupler bars, for fixed action.
The top part of both handlebars is guarded by rubber foam to supply a better grip. The handlebars do not feature pulse sensors though.
The machine features a frame made of steel tubing, coated with anti-corrosive silver paint. The side covers and the flywheel (of fan) cover are made of hard plastic. Overall, the elliptical doesn’t have an extremely stylish design, but in general, most models within this price range have a pretty generic aspect.
Compared with other ellipticals, this model is pretty light, with a weight of only 58 lbs (cca 26 kg), which makes it easy to handle and assemble. On top of that, the front base also has transport wheels. However, since it’s a pretty light machine, it doesn’t offer an extremely sturdy feel like heavier ellipticals. In other words, when engaging in a more consistent workout, the machine may rock from time to time, especially if it’s not leveled properly.
Overall, the BR1830 is not very wide, taking only cca 36″L x 20″W (91 x 51 cm) of floor space.
Console
Evidently, the console supplied with this machine is not exactly an extremely advanced one. It’s a 
simple unit that can track speed, time, distance and calories. The console is easy to operate. It has only one button and a SCAN function, which cycles through the 4 values that it indicates. Its button also allows you to select only one of the values to be displayed on screen, if you don’t want to use the SCAN function.
The unit can be powered on by pressing the button, but it’s also automatically turned on when it receives a signal from the speed sensor (in other words it’s powered on when you begin pedaling). To reset the current values on the console you must press the button and hold it for 3 seconds.
It doesn’t have RPM or pulse, not it can communicate with a heart rate chest strap. Also, it requires 2 AA batteries which are supplied.
Assembly and Maintenance
This elliptical trainer is quite easy to assemble. The whole process shouldn’t take more than 45 minutes, and can be done by a single person, as the machine is pretty light. Most of the parts are pre-installed. All you have to do is add the bases to the frame, the pivoting bar, the pedals, the handlebars, and connect the console.The tools for the assembly, the user’s manual, as well as video workout guide, are included in the box.
Just as for most ellipticals, this particular model does call for some maintenance. In case the joints become squeaky, some lublicant should solve the problem. Since it’s a chain-drive machine, the chain should also be lubricated at least once per year. Also, depending on the place where you’re using this machine, the fan may collect dust, and should be cleared from time to time.
The Pros
- Machine with a pretty decent build for the price;
- Smooth and quiet resistance;
- Dual-action handlebars;
- Adjustable resistance;
- Extra-durable chain drive;
- Oversized pedals;
- Performance computer included;
- Video workout guide included;
- Lightweight frame, easy to handle and transport;
- Easy assembly process;
- Low maintenance.
The Cons
- Since it’s a lightweight machine, it can rock or tip during harder workouts, if not leveled properly;
- Pedaling motion reminds of a downhill walk, not the walking on a plane surface. However, this supplies a better workout for the upper leg muscles and glutes.
Final Conclusion
The Body Rider BR1830 is one of the most affordable ellipticals that you can find at the moment. Apart from other ellipticals in this price range, it offers a better construction, and doesn’t depend on a magnetic mechanism to generate resistance. It’s a fitness machine for light cardio training, with a small stride, for walking or marching. It’s also great for cross-training, muscle toning, and for gaining the required stamina for undertaking more advanced workouts. All in all, it’s an elliptical that offers decent quality for the price.