| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Net weight | Resistance | Programs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Endurance B4RB Check Discounted Price | L:64" W:26" H:49" | 300 lbs | 119 lbs | Eddy current, 24 levels | 21 |
The Body-Solid Endurance B4RB is a newer version of the Endurance B4R model. Although it’s not far different from the older model, it has a sleeker design with a black color theme. It’s a light-commercial grade recumbent bike designed for users of all levels.
Key Features and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 64L x 26W x 49H inches (163L x 66W x 124H cm)
- Assembled weight: 119 lbs (54 kg)
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs (136 kg)
- Seat: Cushioned, adjustable
- Backrest: Mesh, non-adjustable
- Resistance: Motorized magnetic, 24 levels
- Console: 6 workout modes, 21 programs
- Extras: Device holder, bottle holder
- Warranty: Frame 15 years / Parts 3 years / Electronics 2 years / Wear parts 6 months / Labor 1 year
Frame construction
The Body-Solid Endurance B4RB features a heavy-duty construction designed for commercial use. Its frame
combines oval and rectangular steel tubing. All the steel parts in the bike’s construction are double-coated with a black paint finish. The only exception is the seat rail which is chrome-plated.
The bike integrates several plastic parts as well. The console casing, the guards of the drive and resistance elements, and the frame of the backrest are some of the most notable ones. These are made from a durable thermoplastic material.
The fully assembled bike is fairly large. It is approx. 64″ (163 cm) long and 26″ (66 cm) wide, while the top of the console reaches approx. 49″ (124 cm) above the floor. It is recommended, though, to leave at least two feet of clearance all around the bike, for easy access. And speaking of easy access, the B4RB recumbent exercise bike features a step-through design. This allows an easier entry and exit or differently put, a better access to the seat. This can be quite a plus for users with certain disabilities.
Since it’s a commercial-grade exercise bike, the Endurance B4RB is pretty heavy, as well. Its net weight is approx. 119 lbs (54 kg). Therefore, the packaged unit should be carried by two persons. However, once the bike is assembled, it can easily be moved by only one person. Its front stabilizer features a set of transport wheels.
Seat and handlebars
The Body-Solid Endurance B4RB is equipped with a seat designed for superior comfort. Its bottom section is 
contoured and integrates a layer of padding. The backrest is a mesh-type with a flexible, yet durable frame made from thermoplastic material.
The seat is adjustable. It is attached to a steel rail sustained by two base bars which considerably improves the sturdiness of the seat. The adjustment system is lever-based which means you can easily adjust the seat’s position while you are seated. The seat’s adjustment span is pretty generous. It can accommodate users between 5’1″ and 6’5″ (155 – 196 cm) with no problem. The bike is also rated for a maximum user weight limit of 300 lbs (136 kg).
It’s important to mention, though, that the backrest does not adjust independently from the rest of the seat. It does not have a vertical slider or a reclining function.
The Endurance B4RB recumbent bike is equipped with two sets of handlebars. One is attached to the seat, the other to the front mast. The seat handlebars integrate pulse sensors. The front handlebars are curved up while the front mast leans towards the user in order to provide a comfortable position even if you hold on to the front bars. None of the handlebars is adjustable. Both have PVC foam grips for comfortable contact.
Resistance system
The Body-Solid Endurance B4RB exercise bike is equipped with a motorized magnetic resistance system.
This means you have to connect it to a power source in order to power up the console and to be able to adjust the resistance. A power adapter with a cable is included with the bike.
The resistance system elements are a small servo motor and a magnetic brake integrated into the internal flywheel. The motor connects both to the console and to the magnetic brake. Therefore, when you adjust the resistance, or when the console automatically adjusts the resistance, the motor changes the magnets’ pulls which results in a higher or a lower pedaling difficulty.
There are three advantages to this type of resistance. First of all, the magnets don’t touch the flywheel so there is no friction. Second of all, since there is no friction, you don’t have to worry about replacing brake pads. Also, the pedaling is very smooth and quiet. And third of all, the console can control the resistance automatically and you can use a variety of on-board programs.
The bike offers 24 levels of resistance. The lowest level delivers a light pedaling difficulty. This particular tension level is great for anyone who wants to undergo a recovery training program. Conversely, the highest level of resistance delivers a pretty impressive difficulty level which can be a challenge even for the most seasoned user.
Drive system
The Endurance B4RB bike is equipped with a heavy flywheel for a recumbent bike. Its exact weight is not specified, but since the bike’s total weight is 119 lbs (54 kg), the flywheel probably weighs at least 20 lbs (9 kg).
The flywheel has a balanced construction in order to provide superior stability and consistent momentum. It is bi-directional as well. This being said, you can pedal in reverse and diversify your workouts. When you pedal in reverse, the console continues to track your data and the resistance remains constant. However, coasting on this bike is not possible.
The bike is equipped with a belt drive system. It uses a poly-v belt highly resistant to stretching and abrasion. Needless to say, the belt does not require lubrication, so you won’t have to take the bike’s front unit apart to grease the drivetrain. Also, the belt delivers a smoother traction than a chain, as it generates slightly less vibration.
The bike is equipped with a durable crankset. It features flat crank arms made of steel with a chrome plating finish. The pedals are made from a tough thermoplastic polymer. They have a textured surface, weight elements for self-leveling, and adjustable straps, so you can perfectly secure your feet on them, if necessary.
Console
The console included with the Endurance B4RB bike is pretty much the same as the one included with the older
version. It features a multi-window display with LED backlight. It tracks time, speed, RPM, distance, watts, calories, and pulse. Speed and distance can be set either to British Imperial units or metric units. Also, the unit can read your pulse either through the sensors integrated into the seat’s handlebars or from a wireless heart rate chest strap (not included).
The console does not have Bluetooth connectivity and it is not compatible with any fitness app. However, it has 6 workout modes with multiple programs to keep you motivated. Each workout mode has a quick selection key on the console. These are Manual, Program, Watt, HRC, Random, and Personal.
The Manual program allows you to exercise freely, adjusting the resistance from the console buttons. If using this program, you can also set goals for time, distance, or calories. The Program mode covers 12 pre-set programs. These have various segment layouts, from hills and peak, to intervals. The Watt mode requires you to set a watt value to maintain during the workout.
The HRC mode has four heart rate programs, three pre-set for 55%, 75%, and 90% HR, while the fourth is custom. The Random mode will randomly create a program every time you initiate it. And finally, the Personal mode has 5 user profiles; each user can input their own data (age, gender, height, weight) for better calorie and overall data monitoring.
Assembly and Maintenance
The main body of the bike comes pre-assembled. The drive and resistance unit is also already attached to the frame. Therefore, you only need to add the two base bars, the pedals, the seat, the front mast, the handlebars, and the console. This may take more than an hour, but the whole task is pretty straightforward. Also, the manual provides clear assembly instructions and schematics.
For maintenance, you only have to keep the bike clean and periodically check for loose bolts and parts. The drive and resistance mechanism does not require lubrication or any other type of maintenance.
The Pros
- Professional-looking design, light-commercial bike;
- Sturdy construction – can support users up to 300 lbs;
- Large padded seat;
- Ergonomic mesh-type backrest;
- Pulse sensors integrated into the seat handlebars;
- Weighted pedals, with adjustable straps for extra stability;
- Motorized magnetic resistance – 24 levels;
- Multi-function console with a backlit LCD display;
- 6 workout modes with a total of 21 workout programs;
- 5 user profiles;
- Goal settings for distance, calories, and heart rate;
- Device holder included;
- Bottle holder included;
- Little maintenance required;
- Easy to assemble;
- All the necessary assembly tools are included;
- Excellent warranty.
The Cons
- No online connectivity;
- No sound system;
- No USB charging port.
Summary
The Body-Solid Endurance B4RB is a light-commercial recumbent exercise bike. It is equipped with a 24-level motorized magnetic resistance system, a comfortable seat with plenty of adjustment range, and a console with 6 workout modes and a total of 21 workout programs. It’s a bike for users of all levels, for light to intense cardio training, muscle toning, stamina and strength development, and weight loss.