| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Resistance | Fitness meter | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
pooboo W268 Check Discounted Price | L:55" W:25" H:40" | 220 lbs | Magnetic 8 levels | Time, Distance, Odometer, Speed, Calories, Scan | 1 year limited |
The pooboo W268 is an entry-level recumbent exercise bike. In terms of features, it can be compared to the Marcy ME-709. Also, as opposed to the W258 model that we’ve already reviewed, it has a different seat adjustment system, and it does not have a pulse reading function.
Key Features and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 55L x 25W x 40H inches (140L x 63W x 101H cm)
- Assembled weight: 55 lbs (25 kg)
- Weight capacity: 220 lbs (100 kg)
- Seat: Adjustable
- Pedals: Weighted, with straps
- Resistance: Manual magnetic, 8 levels
- Console: Time, distance, odometer, speed, calories, SCAN
Frame construction
The pooboo W268 recumbent bike features a two-piece frame type. Its rear section that holds the 
seat connects to the front section that supports the drive and resistance elements. There are several connection points on the seat frame bar which offer the possibility to secure it closer or farther from the pedals.
The bike’s frame is steel-made and coated with a corrosion-resistant paint finish. The color used is black, this being the only color available for this bike (at least for the moment). The covers of the drive and resistance elements are made of hard ABS plastic; they have matching colors for the rest of the frame.
The bike has a step-through design. Although this may seem like an insignificant feature, it can be quite a plus for users with certain disabilities or elderly users. It simply allows an easier entry and exit.
The bike isn’t extremely large. It measures approx. 55″ (140 cm) in length, and 25″ (63 cm) in width. However, it is recommended to leave at least two feet of clearance all around it for ease of access and usage.
Since it’s a light-capacity bike (it is rated for users only up to 220 lbs), it’s also a fairly light trainer. It weighs approx. 55 lbs (25 kg). Therefore, it can be assembled and carried by only one person. Once it is assembled, it’s even easier to move as its front base integrates two small wheels. Also, its rear base is equipped with polygonal caps that can rotate and serve as levelers.
Seat and handlebars
The pooboo W268 is equipped with a seat designed for optimal comfort. Its bottom pad is approx.
12.5″ (32 cm) wide and 11.5″ (29 cm) deep. The backrest has the same width and is approx. 16″ (47) long. This being said, the seat assembly offers plenty of contact surface. It’s also durable enough to support users up to 220 lbs (100 kg).
Both the seat pad and the backrest pad integrate approx. 1.5″ (4 cm) of foam cushioning. The backrest is attached to a sturdy backbone so it provides excellent lumbar support. Also, the backrest does not adjust independently from the seat. It doesn’t recline and you cannot adjust its height.
As we’ve mentioned above, the bike’s seat doesn’t have a rail adjustment system as for the W258 model. The whole rear section of the bike is adjustable. The lower bar makes available several adjustment positions. Therefore, the bike can accommodate users between 5’0″ and 6’0″ (153 – 183 cm). Taller users, although they may use the bike as well, they may not benefit from a complete leg extension.
The bike is equipped with two sets of handlebars. One is attached to the seat assembly, the other to the front mast of the bike. The seat handlebars attach directly to the seat frame via screws so they’re non-adjustable. They don’t integrate pulse sensors as for other recumbent bikes, such as the Exerpeutic 900XL, or the MaxKare model. Also, they’re set at a pretty comfortable height, approx. 19.5″ (50 cm) above floor level.
The front handlebars have a simple, straight design. Just as the seat handlebars, they have rubberized grips. Also, the front mast of the bike is curved towards the seat, so if you want to exercise by holding the front handlebars, you will still benefit from a pretty comfortable position.
Drive and resistance
The pooboo W268 is equipped with a standard magnetic resistance system. It’s not motorized, so the
adjustment of the resistance is done manually. Also, the bike doesn’t require an external power source and cannot adjust the resistance automatically.
The resistance system consists of an internal magnetic brake which is connected to the tension knob on the front mast of the unit through a steel wire. Therefore, when you turn the knob, the position of the brake in relation to the flywheel changes; this increases or decreases the pedaling resistance.
The tension knob has 8 pre-determined difficulty levels marked on it. The first two levels provide light resistance for gentle exercising, great for blood circulation improvement and workout warm-up. The 3-5 tension levels deliver moderate workout intensity, while the 6-8 levels offer considerably more resistance and the possibility to perform a more consistent workout.
The weight of the internal flywheel is not specified. But since the fully assembled unit only weighs 55 lbs (25 kg), its flywheel probably doesn’t exceed 20 lbs (9 kg). However, it has a perimeter-weighted structure for a bit of extra inertia. It is also bi-directional.
Most recumbent exercise bikes equipped with a magnetic resistance system have a belt transmission. The pooboo W268 does not make an exception. It integrates a poly-v belt which delivers a very smooth and quiet pedaling motion. Also, since it’s a belt and not a chain, you don’t have to worry about its lubrication.
The bike’s pedals are counter-balanced so they always turn face-up when you remove your feet from them. They are equipped with straps so you can secure your feet into position. They’re attached to durable steel crank arms; however, since this is not a spin bike, standing up on the pedals is not recommended and will result in a very awkward position anyway.
Exercise meter
As we’ve mentioned above, the bike’s console does not play any role in the resistance adjustment. 
It does not have any preset programs, nor it has online connectivity. It’s only a fitness meter. It is equipped with an LCD display that tracks time, distance, total distance, speed, and calories burned.
The meter unit does not have a pulse reading function and the bike does not integrate any pulse sensors. It also cannot read your pulse from a wireless HR chest strap. Thus, if you want to monitor your heart rate during your workouts, you will have to use a separate device.
The unit is very easy to use. It only has one button which allows you to select any of the aforementioned workout metrics, or to select the Scan Mode. When this function is selected, the unit rotates all the metrics showing each one for several seconds. The button also covers the Reset function. You can press and hold it for a few seconds to clear all the values to zero.
The meter unit is battery-powered. It requires 2 AA batteries which are included. It starts up automatically when you begin pedaling, or when you press its button. It also turns off automatically if it does not detect any pedaling activity for more than four minutes.
Assembly and Maintenance
The drive and resistance elements come pre-assembled, attached to the front section of the frame, and covered by the ABS shrouds. However, the rest of the bike does require user assembly. You will have to connect the rear frame section to the front frame section, attach the two base stabilizer bars, add the seat, the front upright bar (or the front mast), the fitness meter, and the pedals. This may take up to one hour, but the process is far from being complicated. The included manual provides very clear assembly instructions and a few basic tools are included.
Since the bike features a belt drive system, it doesn’t need internal maintenance, at least not for a very long period of time. So, in terms of maintenance, you only have to keep the unit clean and periodically check for loose parts.
The Pros
- Durable steel frame;
- Aesthetic design;
- Adjustable stabilizers on the rear base;
- Transport wheels on the front base;
- Cushioned seat with a large and firm backrest;
- Multiple adjustment positions for the seat (the bike can accommodate users up to 6’0″);
- Quiet magnetic resistance system;
- Adjustable resistance offering distinct 8 levels;
- Counter-balanced pedals with straps;
- Exercise meter that can track time, distance, total distance, speed, and calories burned;
- Bottle holder included;
- Fairly easy to assemble;
- Little to no maintenance required.
The Cons
- No pulse reading function;
- No backlight on the exercise meter.
Summary
The pooboo W268 is a basic recumbent bike designed for home use. It is equipped with an 8-level manual magnetic resistance system, a quiet belt drive, and a basic fitness meter. It has an adjustable, two-piece frame and can accommodate users up to 6’0″ and 220 lbs. It’s a pretty decent exercise bike for light cardio workouts, recovery training, muscle toning, and weight loss. It’s not one of the most affordable in this feature range, but definitely offers excellent value for the price.