Unit | Size | Type | Weight range | Weight increments | Warranty |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bowflex SelectTech 552 Check Discounted Price | L:15.75" W:8" H:9" | Dial adjustable | 5-52.5 lbs (each) | 2.5 lbs up to 25 lbs, 5 lbs from 25 to 50 lbs | 2 years |
There has been a lot of controversy behind the Bowflex SelectTech 552 adjustable dumbbells, ever since they were released. That’s because the first series had several design flaws, rendering them quite fragile. But ever since, several improved series have been released. And nowadays, these adjustable dumbbells are much more reliable than the first models.
There’s a lot of engineering behind the construction of these Bowflex dumbbells, and many aspects that we’re sure you would like to know about them. Thus, in this review we’ll try to cover all of them.
Technical Details and Specifications
- Dimensions: 15.75L x 8W x 9H inches (40L x 20.3W x 22.8H cm)
- Weight range: 5 to 52.5 lbs (2.27 to 23.8 kg) each
- Weight settings: 15
- Accessories: Storage and adjustment trays, Bowflex SelectTech workout DVD
- Warranty: 2 years
Overall construction
Before we get to the construction and materials used for these dumbbells, there’s one aspect to be clarified. The Bowflex SelectTech 552 come as a set of two. Only the Bowflex SelectTech 1090 are available as one dumbbell.
Evidently, the main materials used in the construction of these Bowflex dumbbells are steel and polyurethane. The weight plates are steel made, but are coated with a thin sheet of plastic. This offers several advantages. First of all, the discs won’t clink during your workout, or when you put the weights down. Second of all, the plastic sheet protects the plates from rust. And finally, as opposed from the rubber coating of other types of dumbbells, the one used for the Bowflex plates doesn’t emanate a pungent smell. It also doesn’t come off like the paint or coating on other dumbbells, which may stain your equipment, floors or carpet.
The major downside of these dumbbells is that the weight plates are sustained by polyurethane discs. Now, these discs, although very sturdy and durable, they may sustain damage if the weights are thrown or dropped. Also, especially if you’re heavy, it’s not recommended to use these dumbbells for pushups, as too much pressure may damage the discs. But on the other hand, with proper use and care, these discs can last a lifetime. Also, they’re replaceable parts, so in case one breaks, you can always get a new one.
As opposed to the previous series of Bowflex SelectTech dumbbells, this series features metallic latches on the weight plates. This being said, their locking system is much sturdier.
The main axle of these weights is evidently made of steel. The handle is actually a metallic sheet that goes over the main axle. The handle features a rubberized grip, which is far less abrasive to the hand than the metallic finish of other free weights. Even if you’ll use workout gloves, you’ll see that they won’t wear out so quickly.
Adjustment system and increments
The two major advantages of these dumbbells are adjustability and the fact that they’re space-savvy. Each dumbbell features two adjustment dials, one on each end, offering the following adjustment increments: 5, 7.5, 10, 12.5, 15, 17.5, 20, 22.5, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, and 52.5 pounds.
In other words, in order to benefit from a 10 lbs. dumbbell, you will have to select the 10 lbs increment on each one of the dials. This way, the 5 lbs plates will remain locked on the dumbbell, one on each side. The other plates will remain in the tray.
However, offset weight selection is also possible. For example, you can select the 20 lbs setting on one side, and 30 lbs setting on the other, in case you want to undergo advanced biceps curls. But this way, the total dumbbell weight won’t be 50 lbs, but only 25 lbs. You will actually have 10 lbs on the first side, and 15 lbs on the second side, with a total offset of 5 lbs.
The adjustment system is powered by a metallic gear, which you can actually see spinning when you carry out the adjustment.
Accessories
There are two accessories that come with the Bowflex SelectTech 552 dumbbell set. These are the support / adjustment trays, and the Bowflex workout DVD. The trays are made of hard polyurethane material, with rubberized padding on the weight plates’ slots. They also feature handles on each end, which makes them easier to carry. The included DVD covers a set of workouts that you can follow using these weights, also providing various tips on how to adjust your dumbbells in order to benefit from a better workout.
The Pros
- Highly versatile, offering the possibility to quickly adjust weight in order to alternate exercises;
- Space-savvy. One set of two dumbbells, can basically replace 30 fixed ones;
- Weight range between 5 to 52.5 lbs, perfect for beginner and intermediate users;
- They cover more than 30 possible exercises;
- Sleek design, which can be quite a motivation factor;
- Steel weight plates, coated with plastic composite which prevents them from clinking or catching rust;
- Rubberized handle for maximum comfort and a firm grip;
- Storage trays included;
- Training DVD included;
- Excellent warranty for a dumbbell set.
The Cons
- The discs which sustain the weight plates may break if the dumbbells are dropped or thrown. However, with proper handling, they will last for many years. Also, they’re replaceable.
- The weight range may not suffice for advanged users.
Bottom Line
Bowflex SelectTech 552 adjustable dumbbells are excellent free weights for home use as they’re space-savvy, and highly versatile, making it easy to alternate exercises. On top of that, they have a very sleek design, aspect that may be quite important for some. They cover pretty much the full range of exercises that can be carried out with dumbbells. Even though they may not be the perfect choice for advanced users, who may want a more challenging weight range, they’re simply great for just about anyone who wants to lift weights at home. They have a sturdy construction, much better than the previous series, and can last a lifetime with proper use. And finally, even though they’re not the most affordable dumbbells that you can find out there, considering that they basically cover a full set of non-adjustable dumbbells, they offer great value for the price.