| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Resistance | Performance monitor | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
X-FlexCycle Pro Check Discounted Price | Recumbent: L:52" W:17.3" H:34.6" Upright: L:36.2" W:17.3" H:46.1" | 220 lbs | Magnetic, 16 levels | Time, Speed, Distance, Calories, Pulse, Scan | Lifetime |
The LifePro X-FlexCycle Pro is a folding exercise bike with a magnetic resistance system, similar to the Ativafit R8. However, it offers three frame positions (upright, semi-recumbent, and recumbent), not only two. It also has a few extra features, including 16 levels of resistance, not 8, and a set of extra resistance bands.
Key Features and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 52L x 17.3W x 34.6H inches (132L x 44W x 88H cm)
- Assembled weight: 43 lbs (19.5 kg)
- Weight capacity: 220 lbs (100 kg)
- Seat: Adjustable
- Pedals: Weighted, with straps
- Resistance: Manual magnetic, 16 levels
- Console: Time, distance, speed, calories, pulse, scan
- Extras: Resistance bands, device holder
- Warranty: Lifetime
Frame construction
As its name suggests, the LifePro X-FlexCycle Pro has an X-type frame consisting of two main pieces connected
in the middle. The larger piece features two long parallel bars; it holds the handlebar and the fitness monitor. The smaller piece holds the seat and the drive system.
Needless to say, the frame is made of steel tubing. All the steel parts are coated with a rust-resistant and chip-resistant paint finish. The color used is black, this being the only color available for this bike, at least for the moment.
Similar to other X-bikes, the X-FlexCycle Pro is not too bulky and has a fairly small footprint as well. With the frame unfolded to the recumbent position, its dimensions are 52″L x 17.3″W x 34.6″H inches (132L x 44W x 88H cm). For the semi-recumbent and upright positions, the bike’s dimensions are 41.3″L x 17.3″W x 43.5″H (105 x 44 x 110 cm) and 36.2″L x 17.3″W x 46.1″H (92 x 44 x 117 cm). It is recommended, though, to leave at least two feet of clearance all around the bike, regardless of the position in which you are using it, for ease of access and safe usage. The frame can also fold completely offering better storage possibilities.
The fully assembled bike is fairly light. Its net weight is 43 lbs (19.5 kg). Therefore, it can be carried and assembled by only one person. Also, once it is assembled, it is even easier to relocate as its rear base stabilizer is equipped with two small wheels.
Seat and handlebars
The X-FlexCycle Pro is equipped with a fairly comfortable seat. First of all, the seat pad is pretty large and
slightly contoured. Its inner shell is made of a durable thermoplastic material. It’s not super soft but does integrate a layer of foam padding. The backrest is slightly larger and has better cushioning. Its cover is made of durable vinyl material which is moisture-proof and easy to maintain. The backrest also folds forward over the seat to allow a better use of the low resistance bands.
The seat is two-way adjustable (up, down). It does not have a horizontal slider so it cannot adjust back and forth. Its post has six adjustment positions, and the bike should be able to accommodate comfortably users between 5’1″ and 6’2″ (155 – 188 cm). Taller users should still be able to use this exercise bike but they may not benefit from a complete range of motion. Also, the bike is durable enough to support users up to 220 lbs (100 kg).
This LifePro exercise bike is equipped with two sets of handlebars. One attaches to the seat assembly, the other to the front section of the frame. The front handlebars have a multi-grip design; they offer the possibility to adopt a climbing grip, a parallel grip, and a low close grip. They integrate metallic pulse sensors and the included fitness monitor can track your pulse.
The seat handlebars have a simpler design. They only offer one standard grip. They do not have any pulse sensors or other types of controls. Both handlebar sets have rubber-foam sleeves for improved contact. None of them are adjustable.
Resistance and drive
The LifePro X-FlexCycle Pro is equipped with a manual magnetic resistance system. This means that the
bike cannot automatically adjust the resistance and does not have pre-set workout programs. It also means that you do not need an adapter for it.
The bike’s resistance system uses a magnetic brake attached to the internal flywheel assembly and connected to the tension dial on the bike’s frame. By turning the dial (right or left) the magnets will change their position in relation to the internal flywheel, which leads to more or less resistance.
The bike offers 16 levels of resistance which is a plus, as many other similar exercise bikes only offer 8 tension levels. The first few levels of resistance deliver a fairly low pedaling difficulty, great for recovery training. Conversely, the 16th level of resistance offers a distinguishably higher workout load, great for anyone who wants to improve strength and stamina, and burn more calories.
The weight of the bike’s internal flywheel is not specified. But considering that the bike’s net weight is only 43 lbs (19.5 kg), its flywheel probably doesn’t weigh more than 10 lbs (4.5 kg). It is perimeter-weighted, though, for improved inertia and it’s also bi-directional.
The bike is equipped with a belt drive system. This means you don’t have to worry about its lubrication. The crankset features steel-made, flat arms similar to road bikes. However, it’s not exactly made for standing on the pedal. And finally, the pedals feature a weighted design; this being said, they always self-level if you remove your feet from them. They also have adjustable straps so you can secure your feet if necessary.
Fitness monitor and other accessories
The LifePro X-FlexCycle Pro is equipped with a fitness monitor similar to one included with the Lanos 2-in-1 bike. It
features an LCD display that tracks time, distance, speed, calories, and pulse. Its display is divided into multiple sub-sections in order to show all the workout metrics at once. However, it does not have an LED backlight. It also does not have any workout programs.
The speed and distance metrics are shown in Imperial units (MPH and miles). There is no option for setting them to Metric units (kmh and kilometers). The pulse reading function is grip-only. This means the monitor can only read your pulse if you hold on to the integrated sensors; it cannot read pulse from a wireless transmitter.
The monitor is very easy to use. It only has one button. By pressing the button, you can scroll through the workout metrics displayed on the larger window of the monitor, or select the Scan Mode, which rotates them all, showing each one for 6 seconds. The button also covers the unit’s reset function.
The monitor unit is battery-powered. It uses two AA batteries which are included. It begins tracking your workout metrics when it detects pedal movement. It also has a sleep mode which activates if the unit does not detect any activity on the bike for more than four minutes.
Two other notable features that we can mention here are the device holder and the resistance bands. The device holder consists of a small shelf integrated into the fitness monitor unit. The resistance bands are two in number. One is attached to the front section of the frame, offering the possibility to exercise while seated. The other is attached to the low rear section of the frame and allows the execution of standing exercises like curls, standing rows, and even leg kickbacks. The bike comes with a set of D-handles which you can attach either to the rear or to the front resistance bands.
Assembly and Maintenance
The two main pieces of the frame are already attached in the middle. Also, the drive and resistance system is pre-assembled. However, the rest of the parts require user assembly. You will have to attach the two base bars, assemble the seat and connect it to the frame, add the handlebars, the pedals, and the fitness monitor. This shouldn’t take more than 30-40 minutes of your time. The manual provides step-by-step assembly instructions and all the necessary tools are included.
For maintenance, you only have to keep the bike clean, wipe the sweat droplets that may fall on the frame at the end of the workout, and periodically inspect the bike to make sure all its parts hold tight in their places and function properly. The internal mechanism does not require lubrication.
The Pros
- 3-in-1 exercise bike – upright, semi-recumbent, and recumbent;
- Small footprint;
- Foldable, great for a small apartment;
- Transport wheels included;
- Comfortable, large seat, offering 2-way adjustability;
- Multi-grip handlebars with foam sleeves for improved comfort;
- Pulse sensors integrated into the front handlebar grips;
- Heavy-duty crankset with weighted pedals;
- Smooth and quiet operation;
- 16 levels of magnetic resistance;
- Fitness monitor included – it tracks time, distance, speed, calories, and pulse;
- Device holder integrated into the fitness monitor;
- Two sets of resistance bands with D-handles;
- Easy to assemble;
- Little maintenance required;
- Excellent warranty.
The Cons
- A tablet placed on the device holder may cover the monitor display;
- The fitness monitor does not have backlight;
- No goal settings.
Summary
The LifePro X-FlexCycle Pro is a 3-in-1 exercise bike made for home use. It features a 16-level magnetic resistance system, a large comfortable seat, two sets of resistance bands for arm exercises, and a fitness monitor that tracks the most important workout metrics. It’s a fairly decent bike for light to medium-intensity cardio workouts, muscle toning, stamina development, and weight loss. It’s also an affordable bike and comes with a lifetime warranty.