Unit | Size | Supported weight | Shipping weight | Resistance | Console |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
XtremepowerUS Deluxe Bike Check Discounted Price | L:51" W:22.5" H:38" | 220 lbs | 51 lbs | Magnetic, 8 levels | Time, Speed, Distance, Odometer, Calories, Pulse, Scan |
The XtremePowerUS Deluxe recumbent bike is one of the exercise bikes released in 2016. It’s a basic model without too many features but it’s also an affordable bike. In terms of features, it can be compared with the Marcy ME 709, or the pooboo W268.
Key Features and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 51L x 22.5W x 38H inches (129L x 57W x 96H cm)
- Shipping weight: 51 lbs (23 kg)
- Weight capacity: 220 lbs (100 kg)
- Seat: Adjustable
- Pedals: Weighted, with straps
- Resistance: Manual magnetic, 8 levels
- Fitness monitor: Time, distance, odometer, speed, calories, pulse, scan
Frame construction
The XtremePowerUS Deluxe recumbent bike features a steel frame made mostly out of cylindrical tubing. The only notable rectangular tube in its construction is the backbone of the seat. It’s a two-piece frame; the front frame piece supports the bike’s drive and resistance system. The rear frame piece is basically the seat and it connects to the front piece via the base bar which also serves as an adjustment bar.
All the steel parts in the bike’s frame are coated with a corrosion-resistant paint finish. The color used is black, this being the only color available for this bike. The unit also integrates several plastic parts. For example, the drive system covers, the base covers of the seat and backrest, the pedals, and the base bar caps are all made from durable ABS plastic material.
The bike is not too large. With all the parts assembled, it is approx. 51″ (129 cm) long and 22.5″ (57 cm) wide. However, if the seat is adjusted all the way to the front, the bike’s length is only 43″ (109 cm). It’s also recommended to leave at least two feet of clearance around the bike, though, for easy entry and exit and unhindered usage.
The bike is not too heavy either. Its net weight is a bit under 50 lbs (22.6 kg). Therefore, it can easily be carried and assembled by only one person. Also, once it is assembled, it can be moved even easier, as its front base integrates transport wheels.
Last but not least, the bike’s frame has a step-through design. This can be quite a plus for users with certain disabilities. That’s because they have easier access to the seat and won’t have to step over the drive system unit as is the case for other recumbent bikes.
Seat and handlebars
The XtremePowerUS recumbent bike is equipped with a pretty comfortable seat. The seat section is actually a bit wider than for other bikes. It is approx. 15.5″ (39 cm) wide, and 11.5″ (29 cm) deep so it provides plenty of contact surface. It is also durable enough to support users up to 220 lbs (100 kg).
Both the backrest and the seat integrate a thick layer of foam padding. Their covers are made of durable vinyl material which is also sweatproof, easy to maintain. As we’ve mentioned above, the whole frame section of the bike that holds the seat is adjustable. Its base longitudinal bar features several adjustment holes to which you can secure it to the front frame section via a turn-knob. This being said, the bike should be able to accommodate users up to 6’0″ (183 cm). Taller persons may not benefit from a complete range of motion.
It’s also important to mention here that the backrest does not adjust independently from the seat. You cannot set it higher or lower, and it does not have a reclining feature.
The bike is equipped with two sets of handlebars. One is attached to the seat, the other to the front upright bar. This bar is curved towards the user and the handlebars that attach to it are also curved up. This setup offers the user a comfortable position when holding on to the front handlebars.
The handlebars that attach to the seat integrate pulse sensors. These are connected to the fitness monitor, so if you hold on to them, it can display your heart rate. Both handlebar sets feature PVC foam sleeves for improved contact. None of them are adjustable independently from the frame pieces they attach to.
Resistance system
The XtremePowerUS recumbent bike is equipped with a manual magnetic resistance system. This means that the bike does not require a power adapter or an external power source. But on the other hand, it also does not have pre-set workout programs and does not adjust the resistance automatically.
The bike’s resistance system consists of an internal magnetic brake attached to the flywheel system. The brake connects to the bike’s tension knob via a steel cable that passes through the bike’s front upright bar. When you turn the tension knob, the magnetic brake moves closer or farther from the flywheel which increases or decreases the pedaling difficulty.
The magnetic resistance system comes with several advantages over a friction resistance system. First of all, the magnets do not touch the flywheel. Thus, the pedaling motion is very smooth and quiet. And second of all, since the magnetic brake pad does not touch the flywheel, it basically never wears out, so you won’t have to worry about its replacement.
There are 8 levels of resistance available on this recumbent exercise bike. The first two levels provide light resistance for gentle exercising, great for blood circulation improvement, and workout warm-up. Conversely, the 6-8 levels offer considerably more resistance and the possibility to perform a more consistent workout.
Drive system
The XtremePowerUS Deluxe recumbent bike is equipped with a perimeter-weighted flywheel. This type of construction enables it to provide a more consistent momentum. It’s not super-heavy, though as is the case for an indoor cycling bike, such as the YOSUDA L-010, for example. Its exact weight is not specified, but since the bike doesn’t weigh more than 50 lbs (22.6 kg), the weight of the flywheel probably ranges between 10 and 20 lbs (4.5 – 9 kg).
The bike’s flywheel and drive system permit reverse pedaling. This can be a plus, as you can alternate forward pedaling sessions with backward pedaling sessions, so you can focus different muscle groups. Also, when pedaling in reverse, the fitness monitor continues to track your workout data. However, it’s important to mention that coasting is not possible on this bike.
The bike is equipped with a belt drive system. It integrates a poly-v belt designed for superior traction. This type of transmission comes with two main advantages. First of all, it generates slightly less vibration than a chain, so the pedaling motion is smoother. And second of all, the belt does not require lubrication.
The bike is equipped with a fairly sturdy crankset. The internal pulley is made from a durable nylon material while the crank arms are cylindrical, steel-made, and feature a chrome plating finish. The pedals are made from a tough thermoplastic material. They have a weighted design so they always self-level when you remove your feet from them. They also have adjustable straps.
Fitness monitor
The XtremePowerUS Deluxe recumbent bike is equipped with a basic fitness monitor. It features an LCD display without backlight. It tracks time, speed, distance, total distance, calories, and pulse. It does not show RPM or watts. The pulse reading function is grip only. In other words, the unit can only read your pulse if you hold on to the integrated sensors. It cannot read pulse from a wireless transmitter such as a heart rate chest strap or armband.
The monitor unit does not have pre-set programs or online connectivity. It also does not have a workout target setting function (or countdown function). It only has one button which covers all of its functions. By pressing the button repeatedly, you can scroll through the workout metrics and select the one you want to view. You can also press and hold the button to reset all the data to zero.
The monitor unit runs on batteries. It begins recording your workout data when you begin pedaling. It also automatically turns off after a few minutes of inactivity to save battery. It does not have a tablet or phone holder like other similar bike monitors.
Assembly and Maintenance
The bike’s drive and resistance unit comes pre-assembled. However, you still 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 – can support users up to 220 lbs (100 kg);
- Adjustable stabilizers on the rear and mid-base;
- Transport wheels on the front base;
- Cushioned, wide seat with a large and firm backrest;
- Multiple adjustment positions for the seat (the bike can accommodate users up to 6’0″);
- Seat handlebars with pulse sensors;
- Quiet magnetic resistance system;
- Adjustable resistance offering distinct 8 levels;
- Weighted pedals with straps;
- Fitness monitor included – it tracks time, distance, total distance, speed, pulse, and calories burned;
- Fairly easy to assemble;
- All the tools necessary for the assembly are included;
- Little maintenance required.
The Cons
- No bottle holder;
- No backlight on the fitness monitor;
- No tablet holder.
Summary
The XtremePowerUS Deluxe recumbent bike is a fitness machine made for home use. It features an 8-level manual magnetic resistance system, a belt drive system, a large comfortable seat, handlebars with pulse sensors, and a fitness monitor that tracks the most important workout metrics. It’s a bike for light to medium-intensity cardio training, recovery training, muscle toning, and weight loss.