Exerpeutic GOLD 975XBT Recumbent Bike

Unit	Size	Supported weight	Resistance	Console	Warranty
Exerpeutic GOLD 975XBT Check Discounted Price	L:58" W:23.5" H:38.5"	310 lbs	ECB 16 lvls	21 programs, 2 user profiles, Bluetooth	1 year limited

The Exerpeutic GOLD 975XBT is one of the most affordable recumbent bikes with an automatic resistance system, and console with Bluetooth connectivity. It’s also a well-built bike featuring an impressive weight capacity and a excellent ergonomic factors. So, if you’re looking for an affordable, yet versatile and durable recumbent bike, this is definitely one to put on your list. In this review, we’ll try to cover each and every one of its features.

Technical Details and Specifications

• Assembled dimensions: 58L x 23.5W x 38.5H inches (147L x 60W x 98H cm)
• Assembled weight: 71.6 lbs (32.6 kg)
• Supported weight: 310 lbs (140.6 kg)
• Seat: Adjustable
• Drive: Belt
• Resistance: Magnetic, 16 levels
• Console: 21 pre-set programs, 3 goal settings, Bluetooth
• Warranty: 1 year limited

Frame construction

In terms of frame construction, the Exerpeutic GOLD 975XBT can be compared with the Body Champ BRB3558, or the Fitness Reality R4000. It’s not a commercial-grade exercise bike, but it does have a decent weight capacity; it’s designed to support users up to 310 lbs (~140 kg). 

The bike’s main frame is made of rectangular steel tubing, while the console mast and the base stabilizers are cylindrical. All the steel parts are coated with a corrosion-resistant paint, the color used being silver, with the exception of the seat adjustment rail which has a chrome finish.

Of course, the unit’s internal parts are shielded by two durable ABS covers. Their top part is molded inward, creating a small storage space which can be used as a bottle holder or accessory holder.

The fully assembled unit is not extremely heavy. It weighs approx. 71 lbs (~32 kg). Its relocation, once it is assembled, is facilitated by the front transport wheels. Also, its stability is enhanced by the middle adjustable leveler and the rear, adjustable polygonal caps.

This Exerpeutic exercise bike is not extremely large compared to other fitness equipment, such as the LifeSpan E2i elliptical, for example. However, it does take 58″L x 23.5″W of space when fully assembled, and on top of that, it’s recommended to leave at least two feet of clearance on each side, and at least one foot of clearance at the rear and front, for easy access and operation. So, this being said, the bike may not fit well in a small room or apartment.

One last aspect to mention here is the unit’s step-through design. This type of frame facilitates the access to the seat, a feature that can be quite useful for users with disabilities or elderly users.

Seat and handlebars

The Exerpeutic GOLD 975XBT is equipped with an ergonomic seat, 15.5″ (39.3 cm) wide and 11″ (28 cm) long. It features 2.5″ (6.3 cm) of foam padding, providing an excellent comfort. It backrest features a sturdy backbone and integrates the same layer of padding while providing a healthy lumbar support.

The whole seat assembly is adjustable. Its oblique sliding rail provides several inches of adjustment. This being said, the unit can accommodate users between 4’11” – 6’6″ (150 – 198 cm) while promoting a complete leg extension and a comfortable positioning. However, there’s no reclining feature for the backrest, such as for the LifeSpan R3i bike. The backrest is directly attached to the seat frame and will only move along with the whole seat.

This recumbent exercise bike features two sets of handlebars, one incorporated into the seat frame, the other attached to the console mast. The seat handlebars are equipped with metallic pulse sensors, so the bike’s console can monitor your heart rate if you hold on to them. The front handlebars are slightly angled towards the user; they have simple, straight grips. Both sets of handlebars have rubber foam material grips for improved hand adherence and comfort.

Resistance system

This Exerpeutic recumbent bike features a motorized magnetic resistance system. This means the resistance control can only be done from the unit’s console, and in order to benefit from any resistance adjustment, the bike must be connected to a power source. A power adapter is included with the unit.

The resistance system consists of a small servo motor and a magnetic brake. As you select a certain resistance level from the console, the motor will change the position of the magnetic brake increasing or decreasing the intensity of the magnetic field around the flywheel.

There are 16 magnetic resistance levels available. The first three allow very light and very low-impact training possibilities, great for users who require recovery training due to injuries or surgery. Conversely, the highest 14-16 resistance settings allow you to perform more intense workout sessions, simulating a steep climb, great for stamina and leg muscle strength development.

Drive system

When it comes to the bike’s drive system, there are three main elements to put into view. These are the flywheel, the transmission, and the crankset. 

The unit’s internal flywheel is perimeter-weighted, designed to provide a bit of momentum, but more importantly, it generates a very steady and smooth pedaling motion. Its weight is not specified, but considering that the unit’s total weight is only 71 lbs (~32 kg), its flywheel shouldn’t weigh more than 20 lbs (~9 kg).

Like most other exercise bikes with a magnetic brake, the Exerpeutic GOLD 975XBT features a belt drive system. It uses a durable v-belt which is resistant to stretching and promotes a very quiet, vibration-free pedaling motion. Also, as opposed to a chain drive, the unit’s belt doesn’t need periodic lubrication.

The bike’s crankset is equipped with two solid steel, chrome-coated crank arms. However, since it’s a recumbent bike, it’s not designed for standing up on the pedals. The included pedals are weighted and self-leveling; they have a non-slip surface and adjustable straps in order to perfectly secure your feet during exercising.

Console

The console of the Exerpeutic GOLD 975XBT features a large LCD display with blue LED backlight which considerably improves its readability. Also, the display is divided into several sections, showing all the workout metrics at once, so you don’t have to use a SCAN function to alternate them. It displays time, distance, calories, speed, and heart rate, while the top part shows the profiles of the program in use.

The console is not telemetric. It can read your pulse via the sensors integrated into the seat handlebars, but it’s not compatible with Polar or other types of HR chest straps.

The unit has 21 preset workout programs which automatically control the bike’s resistance. Depending on their matrix, they can help you focus your training differently, allowing you to perform light or intense workouts, interval training, heart rate focused training, etc. Of course, there’s also the Manual mode which gives you the possibility to adjust the resistance as you like during your workout sessions.

Goal settings are available for the time, distance, and calories. You can select a certain target for any of these workout metrics, and the unit will begin to countdown from it until it reaches zero.

The unit has two user profiles, a feature great to have if two persons use the machine. This way, you can save up your program settings, and your user data, such as weight or age, so that the console will provide a more accurate reading of the calories burned.

An important feature to mention here is the unit’s Bluetooth connectivity. You can sync it with a smartphone or tablet that has the MyFitQuest4 fitness app installed, in order to directly stream your workout data online. The app gives you the possibility to keep a better track of your progress, view your workout history, and various other features.

One last aspect to mention with regards to the console is the tablet holder. Its top features an expanded area on which you can place your phone or smartphone in order to access the MyFitQuest4 app or watch your favorite online streams while exercising.

Assembly and Maintenance

This Exerpeutic exercise bike comes partially assembled. The base frame with the internal parts is already in one piece. All you have to do is attach the seat, the backrest, the console mast, the console, the pedals, and the base stabilizers. All the tools required for the assembly are included. Also, the manual provides great assembly instructions and schematics, so the task shouldn’t take more than one hour.

Maintenance doesn’t require much. The internal parts don’t require any lubrication. Basically, all you need to do is periodically inspect the unit for loose bolts and parts, remove the dust from with a damp cloth and keep any liquids away from the console unit.

The Pros

• Solid construction – can hold users up to 310 lbs;
• Step-thru design for an easy access to the seat;
• Adjustable rear stabilizers;
• Transport wheels;
• Large padded seat with 2.5″ of foam cushioning;
• Adjustable seat – can accommodate users between 4’11” and 6’6″
• EKG sensors integrated into seat handlebars
• Automatic magnetic resistance, with 16 available settings;
• Very smooth, almost silent belt drive; 
• Large LCD display with blue LED backlight which improves its readability;
• 21 workout programs;
• 2 user profiles;
• 3 goal settings;
• Bluetooth enabled console for streaming your workout data to the MyFitQuest4 app;
• Tablet holder included;
• Bottle holder included;
• Easy to assemble;
• Little maintenance required.

The Cons

• No USB port for recharging your phone or tablet.

Summary

The Exerpeutic GOLD 975XBT is a motorized magnetic recumbent bike, offering 16 resistance settings, 21 workout programs, and Bluetooth connectivity. It’s compatible with the MyFitQuest4 free app so you can track your progress online. It features a durable construction being able to hold users up to 310 lbs. It’s great for light to medium cardio workouts, stamina development, recovery training and weight loss. And finally, it’s one of the most affordable recumbent bikes with automatic resistance and a Bluetooth console that you can find at the moment.