Tunturi Competence F40 Upright Bike

Unit	Size	Supported weight	Flywheel weight	Resistance	Console
Tunturi F40 Check Discounted Price	L:39" W:23" H:62"	297 lbs	20 lbs	Eddy current, 32 levels	19 programs, Bluetooth

The Tunturi F40 is the more advanced upright bike of the Tunturi Competence series. Although it has a similar construction to the Tunturi F20 that we’ve already reviewed here, it offers quite a few extra features. For example, it has a motorized resistance system with 32 levels, and a programmable console with Bluetooth and online connectivity. For reference, this is the Tunturi part number 17TBF40500.

Technical Details and Specifications

• Assembled dimensions: 39L x 23W x 62H inches (99L x 59W x 157H cm)
• Assembled weight: 89 lbs (40.4 kg)
• Flywheel weight: 20 lbs (9 kg)
• Weight capacity: 297 lbs (135 kg)
• Seat: 4-way adjustable
• Resistance: Motorized-magnetic, 32 levels
• Console: 19 programs, Bluetooth
• Warranty: 3 years

Frame construction

Most of the parts in this bike’s frame construction are made of steel. The only exceptions are the covers of the crank, flywheel, and resistance parts, and several other small covers. The bike is sturdy enough to support users up to 297 lbs (135 kg).

The frame features a step-through design, while the console mast is slightly curved. This not only allows an easier entry and exit, it also contributes to the overall aesthetics of the bike.

The bike is completely black; there are no other versions available for this particular model (at least not for now). All the steel parts feature a durable powder coating finish which is resistant to abrasions and rust.

Compared to other fitness machines, the Tunturi F40 Competence does not take too much space. With all the parts assembled, it is approx. 39″ (99 cm) long, and 23″ (59 cm) wide. Also, its highest point is approx. 62″ (157 cm), given by its handlebar set to the highest position. It is recommended, though, to leave at least two feet of clearance all around it, for safe usage and ease of access.

This Tunturi exercise bike isn’t extremely heavy. However, it still weighs approx. 89 lbs (40.4 kg), which is twice the weight of the average road bike. This weight, plus the user’s weight, leads to excellent stability. Plus, the bike has a low center of gravity which also contributes to its overall stability.

The bike is not foldable. So, once it is assembled, you can only store it as it is. Its relocation is facilitated by the two large silicone wheels on its front base. Also, both base bars of the bike have adjustable stabilizers equipped with rubber pads for extra floor protection. Thus, you can perfectly level the unit on any type of flooring.

Seat and handlebars

The Tunturi Competence F40 is equipped with a comfort seat. The saddle is fairly large, offering plenty of contact surface. It integrates a layer of foam cushioning, and its surface is contoured, with a longitudinal groove for improved breathability.

The saddle has a standard, collar-based attachment system. Therefore, in case you will ever need to replace it, compatible options are widely available.

The seat offers 4-way adjustability. Its upright post features several adjustment notches, while its horizontal slider adds a few more inches of front to back adjustment. This being said, the bike can accommodate users between 5’0″ and 6’2″ (153 – 188 cm) with no problem. Also, the whole seat assembly is designed to support users up to 297 lbs (135 kg).

Just like the Tunturi Performance E60, this model has an adjustable handlebar. Its connection point to the front mast involves a large knob which you can easily untighten and re-tighten if you want to adjust the angle of the handlebar.

The handlebar features a multi-grip design; it is covered by a layer of rubber-foam material in order to provide a secure grip. Its lower section features stainless steel pulse sensors, so you can monitor your heart rate during each workout session.

Resistance and drive

The Tunturi F40 Competence features a motorized magnetic resistance system. Differently put, it is equipped with an internal eddy current brake and a servo motor. Thus, the bike needs to be connected to a power source to make possible the resistance adjustment. Also, the resistance can only be adjusted from the console and some of the programs on the console auto-adjust the unit’s resistance.

A 9V/1A power adapter with cable is included with the bike. However, it may have an EU setup since the bike is manufactured in the Netherlands. Therefore, you may need a US plug adapter for it.

Compared to the bikes with a manual magnetic resistance system such as the Tunturi B35 Cardio Fit, for example, this particular upright bike offers 32 distinct resistance levels. The first few levels deliver a light resistance, great for recovery training. Conversely, the top resistance levels offer the possibility to perform a more consistent workout, great for a high-cardio activity and losing weight.

The bike is equipped with a fairly heavy internal flywheel. It weighs 20 lbs (9 kg) and has a perimeter-weighted set-up. Therefore, it provides a consistent momentum and a steady pedaling motion.

The flywheel permits reverse pedaling. And when pedaling in reverse, the bike retains the selected tension level. For example, if you select level 25, if you pedal in reverse, the bike will offer the same resistance. You cannot coast on it, as it is the case of a road bike with a rear derailleur.

The bike’s crankset is quite durable, featuring solid steel crank arms. However, since this is not a spin bike, standing up on the pedals is not recommended, even if it can support your weight. Like any other upright bike, the F40 is made for seated workouts.

The included pedals feature a weighted design; they integrate a weight element at the base which enables them to always turn face-up if you remove your feet from them. They also have a non-slip surface and adjustable straps, so you can perfectly secure your feet on them if needed.

Like most other exercise bikes with a magnetic resistance system, the Tunturi F40 has a belt drive system. This type of drivetrain comes with several advantages. First of all, you don’t need to lubricate it. Second of all, it generates very little noise; when pedaling, you can barely hear anything. And third, the pedaling motion is very smooth, with considerably less vibration than for certain other bikes with a chain drive.

Console

The bike is equipped with a mid-range console, featuring an 5.5″ LCD display with LED backlight and large digits for better readability. The display is split into several sub-sections in order to show all the workout metrics at once. It tracks time, distance, speed, RPM, calories, watts, and pulse.

The console makes available 19 workout programs. The list includes 1 Manual, 4 Beginner, 4 Advanced, 4 Sporty, 4 Heart Rate, 1 Recovery, and 1 BMI. As opposed to the models in the Performance series, this console does not offer the Watt program.

The Manual program gives you the possibility to adjust the resistance as you like from the knob in the middle during your workout. This program also allows you to set up a target for time, distance, or calories. The next 16 programs are preset; they have pre-determined resistance intervals, offering the possibility to target various workouts. During these programs, the console auto-adjusts the resistance depending on the current workout segment, while for the Heart Rate programs, it will adjust the resistance based on your current pulse rate.

The Recovery program measures how long it takes your heart to bring your pulse to normal at the end of the workout. Based on the result, it will give you a fitness rating between F1 (Excellent) and F6 (Poor). And finally, the BMI programs (or the Body Mass Index) gives you the possibility to input your weight, height, age, and gender, and based on your input, it will calculate your body fat percentage.

The console unit has Bluetooth connectivity. Therefore, you can sync it with your tablet or smartphone and use one of the compatible fitness apps for iOS or Android. These apps are i-Console+ and Kinomap. They offer many extra features like tracking your progress online or even ride your cycle on a virtual trail based on Google Maps.

In case you’re wondering, the console unit makes available both metric and imperial units. Therefore, you can set the speed and distance readings in either km/h and km, or MPH and miles. It also integrates a telemetric HR receiver so it can read your pulse rate from a 5-5.4 kHz chest strap. This accessory is not included, though.

Finally, the bike’s console doesn’t have an integrated audio system as the Schwinn 170 upright bike, for example. It also doesn’t have a workout fan. However, it does have a tablet holder placed between the console controls and its display.

Assembly and Maintenance

The main body of the bike comes fully assembled. You only have to add the base bars, the front mast, the console, the handlebars, the seat post, the seat, and the pedals. This shouldn’t take more than an hour of your time. All the tools needed for the assembly are included, and the manual provides step-by-step assembly instructions and detailed schematics.

Maintenance doesn’t require much. All you have to do is keep the unit clean, keep liquids away from the console, and periodically check for loose bolts and parts before each workout.

The Pros

• Sturdy frame – can support users up to 297 lbs;
• Rubberized, adjustable stabilizers on both base bars;
• Transport wheels on the front base;
• 4-way adjustable seat;
• Cushioned and contoured saddle for optimal comfort;
• Multi-grip and angle adjustable handlebar;
• Pulse sensors integrated into the handlebar;
• Balanced, 20 lbs flywheel for a steady pedaling motion and a consistent momentum;
• Weighted pedals with adjustable straps;
• Quiet belt drive;
• Eddy current, motorized resistance system – 32 distinct levels;
• Multi-window LCD display console;
• 16 preset programs;
• Recovery program;
• BMI program;
• Telemetric console – can read pulse from a 5-5.4 kHz chest strap;
• Bluetooth connectivity;
• Compatible with the i-Console+, and Kinomap apps for iOS and Android;
• Goal settings for time, distance, and calories;
• Tablet holder included;
• Bottle holder included;
• Little maintenance required;
• Easy to assemble;
• Decent warranty.

The Cons

• No sound system;
• No USB port;
• The HR chest strap is not included;
• A tablet placed on the tablet holder will cover the console display.

Summary

The Tunturi Competence F40 is a mid-range upright exercise bike. It features an eddy current resistance system with 32 available settings. It offers superior micro-adjustability and comfort saddle. It has a sturdy construction and can support users up to 297 lbs. Its console offers 19 workout programs and Bluetooth connectivity. It’s an excellent trainer for light to medium intensity cardio workouts, muscle toning, calorie burning, stamina development, and recovery training.