| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Resistance | Console | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Fitness Reality X-Class 710 Check Discounted Price | L:44" W:26" H:49" | 300 lbs | Friction | Included | Frame: lifetime Parts: 5 years Labor: 5 years Electronics: 2 years Wear: 2 years |
The Fitness Reality X-Class 710 indoor training cycle is the same exercise bike as the IRONMAN Fitness X-Class 510. However, in 2017 Paradigm Health & Wellness has rebranded some of the IRONMAN products, which are now available under the Fitness Reality name.
Nonetheless, the X-Class 710 is one of the most inclusive indoor cycling bikes within the $500-$600 price range. It’s definitely a trainer made for high-intensity workouts, similar to a commercial grade model.
Technical Details and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 44L x 26W x 49H inches (112L x 66W x 124.5H cm)
- Assembled weight: 127 lbs (57.6 kg)
- Flywheel weight: 44 lbs (20 kg)
- Supported weight: 300 lbs (136 kg)
- Handlebars: 4-way adjustable
- Seat: 4-way adjustable
- Pedals: Dual-sided, with SPD clips and toe straps
- Drive mechanism: Belt
- Resistance: Friction
- Bottle holder: Included
- Exercise meter: Included
- Warranty: Frame lifetime / Parts 5 years / Electronics 2 years / Wear parts 2 years
Frame construction
The Fitness Reality X-Class 710 features an extremely sturdy frame, made of thick steel tubing, with solid welding points. All tubes in the frame are ovalized, and this is quite a plus for their grip on the handlebar and seat posts. Being shaped in this manner, the inserted said posts are 
nearly impossible to turn sideways during a consistent workout. Also, the whole construction of the frame is extremely rigid; this frame won’t bend or flex, no matter how you work out. Its main part is double coated with anti-corrosive paint, and currently, the only available color is orange.
The bike’s frame features a slightly different design than most other models. To begin with, the rear base is curved which adds stability. The bike’s footprint is a bit wider than in other models, an aspect that is also reflected in its overall stability. Plus, its bases are equipped with adjustable stabilizers with large rubber pads.
The assembled bike takes 44″L x 26″W (112 x 66 cm) of floor space. However, in order to safely operate it and perform all types of spin workouts on it, a clearance of at least two feet all around it is recommended.
The assembled bike weighs 127 lbs (57.6 kg), which is approx. three times more than the average mountain bike. This weight also adds stability to it. However, when it comes to its relocation, this can be done with ease as the front base features a set of large silicone wheels. By using these wheels for its relocation, you won’t have to handle more than half of its total weight.
Seat and handlebars
Most spin bikes are equipped with a slim seat which is not designed for comfort. The Fitness Reality X-Class 710 features a seat that breaks this standard. To begin with, it features a contoured design and integrates a set of individual air chambers which promote the even 
distribution of the user’s weight. This reduces stress and maximizes comfort for all the seated workouts.
On the other hand, the seat features a standard connection system to its adjustment post. This being said, you can easily find a replacement for it in case it breaks after the warranty has expired, or simply want a different seat model.
When it comes to adjustability, the seat offers upright and fore to aft. adjustment possibilities. Height-wise, it can accommodate users between 5′ – 6’4″ (152 – 193 cm). Also, the seat and its sustaining bar can handle a user weight up to 300 lbs (136 kg).
Just like the seat, the handlebar is 4-way adjustable. There is no angle adjustability, though.
The handlebar features a multi-grip design, integrating a set of long aero bars (to which the fitness meter comes attached), and a set of elbow rests. Although it may seem a pretty insignificant feature, the elbow rests considerably improve the comfort of the handlebar, for the aero posture. Many other exercise bikes simply do not have this, and without proper positioning, hands and arms may become numb during a longer aero posture workout period.
The whole handlebar assembly is urethane-dipped, delivering a comfortable, sure-grip.
Resistance system
The Fitness Reality X-Class 710 indoor training cycle features a standard, manual friction resistance system. This being said, you don’t have to connect it to a power source. It is 
equipped with a thick felt pad which comes in contact with the flywheel in a top-down manner. This pad is meant to last for at least two years of use, even with daily, prolonged workout sessions. But once it wears out, it requires replacement, and you must order it from the manufacturer.
The brake pad is connected to the turn-knob on the main tube of the frame. By turning the knob clockwise, the pad will apply more pressure on the flywheel generating more resistance.
The resistance knob doesn’t have any levels mentioned on it as for magnetic bikes, such as the Kettler AXOS P, for example. You simply turn the knob until you obtain the appropriate resistance for your workout.
The resistance knob also fulfills the purpose of an emergency brake. In case the flywheel needs to be stopped swiftly, you simply push the knob down.
Drive system
To begin with, the Fitness Reality X-Class 710 indoor cycling trainer features a belt-drive system, involving a precision, high-torque, heavy-duty belt, which promotes a smooth, almost silent pedaling motion. The bike is equipped with a heavy flywheel, weighing 44 lbs (20 kg), 
which delivers a steady motion and a consistent momentum. The flywheel is bi-directional, which means you can also pedal in reverse if you want. However, if you do so, it is recommended to use the bike’s emergency brake, in order to stop it from spinning, to avoid any injuries.
Since it’s a fitness bike designed for spin workouts, it features an extremely solid crankset, with solid steel crank arms. The crank assembly can support a load of 300 lbs (136 kg). This being said, you can undertake any spin workout that requires you to stand up on the pedals.
The crank arms are finished with dual-sided pedals. In other words, on one side they feature toe cages and straps for athletic shoes, while on the other side, they have SPD clips for spin shoes.The pedals supplied with the bike have standard threads. Therefore, they can be replaced by various other pedals. They’re highly durable, made of metallic alloy.
Fitness meter
Although the console unit of the Fitness Reality X-Class 710 exercise bike isn’t an extremely inclusive one, it still offers much more than a basic unit, such as the one on the L NOW LD-506 model, for example. First of all, it has a 5-panel display, which can monitor time, speed, 
distance, calories, RPM, and heart rate, showing five of these values simultaneously, so you don’t have to use a scan function to rotate them all the time. Only speed and RPM share the same panel.
The console does not have any preloaded training programs, but it does have Set Target function for distance, time and calories.
The bike’s handlebar does not integrate EKG sensors. Thus, the meter unit can only track your pulse via a wireless HR chest strap transmitter.
On the other hand, the unit is Bluetooth enabled. You can connect it to your smart device via Bluetooth, and with the free iOS/Android app available, you can keep track of your progress online.
Operating the console is pretty easy. It has only 5 buttons: Up, Down, Mode, Reset and Bluetooth. The Mode button is used to confirm the selection of values, while the Up/Down arrows are used to increase/decrease target values. Needless to say, the Reset key reboots the console. The Bluetooth key turns on the Bluetooth function.
The console is powered on when you commence pedaling, and it will enter sleep mode after 4 minutes of inactivity on the bike. It requires 4x AA alkaline batteries, which are supplied with the box.
The console unit integrates tablet tray. Thereby you can safely place your tablet on your handlebar, and enjoy your online streams, or read your favorite book as you exercise. Or, operate the online app directly.
Assembly and Maintenance
Most of the bike comes already assembled, therefore the assembly process takes about 6-7 main steps and 30-35 minutes. All you need to do is place the bike’s body on its bases, mount the seat with its gliding rail, the handlebars with their gliding rails, pedals, and then connect the console. The pedals require a little bit of grease before installation. All the tools necessary for the assembly task come with the box. Also, the box contains a hard copy of the user’s manual, which gives you pretty clear directions regarding assembly and use.
Since the bike is equipped with a belt drive, its transmission does not require lubrication. However, the friction brake pad may require a bit of silicone lubricant, as it may generate a squeaky noise when in contact with the flywheel. A periodic check for loose parts and bolts is also recommended.
The Pros
- Solid frame, with a sturdy design and a weight capacity of 300 lbs;
- Large, adjustable stabilizers with rubber pads;
- 4-way adjustable seat;
- 4-way adjustable handlebar;
- Handlebar integrates elbow rests and aero bars;
- AirSoft, contoured seat, offering considerably more comfort than most spin bike seats;
- Adjustable resistance;
- Heavy, perimeter weighted, bi-directional flywheel for a smooth pedaling motion and solid momentum;
- Heavy-duty crank, able to support any user up to the maximum listed weight, in upright pedaling position;
- Dual-sided pedals with SPD clips on one side and toe cages on the other;
- Fitness meter included;
- Bluetooth connectivity for progress tracking, via the free app for iOS and Android;
- HR chest strap included;
- Bottle holder;
- Really easy to assemble;
- Little maintenance required;
- Quiet, great for apartment use;
- Excellent warranty plan.
The Cons
- No LED backlight on the console;
- No preset workout programs.
Summary
The Fitness Reality X-Class 710 is an indoor cycling bike designed for spin workouts, with a max. user capacity of 300 lbs. It features a standard friction resistance system and also comes with a Bluetooth-enabled fitness meter, an accessory which most spin bikes in this price category do not include. It’s perfect for intense cardio training, intervals, stamina and strength development, and of course, weight loss. In all, this indoor training cycle offers an exceptional price/value ratio.