Product Focus - Stationary and Recumbent Bikes
Bikes are an equipment classic that have motivated generations of exercisers.
The Abdominizer, Thighmaster and vibrating belt machine are long gone, but the stationary bike has withstood the test of time. “The beauty of the bike is that people are familiar with it,” says Gem Mella of Flaman Fitness in Edmonton.
According to Mella, new and deconditioned exercisers in particular flock to both the upright and recumbent versions because they’re less intimidating than some of the other cardio choices. With the bike, they can settle into a soft seat and be exercising in no time and with little instruction.
Many other cardio machines require users to stand and support their weight, but bikes support the body and offer a low start-up resistance.
“People can stay on for several minutes even during their first workout,” says Mella, who has been selling fitness equipment for 20 years. “On other pieces they might not last for even a minute.” Readers and TV watchers of all ages and fitness levels gravitate to the bikes too, he adds.
If you’re opening a new facility or considering upgrading your equipment, here are some of the latest upright and recumbent bikes available on the market.
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PRECOR
Precor’s C846i upright cycle features new Tap ControlTM “paddles” that control resistance, confirming user input with a click. A sleek user-friendly display integrates optional personal viewing screens. It also offers a three-inch steel tube frame, a rigid steel crank and an electro-mechanical belt drive based on Precor’s EFX drive. Comfort and smooth resistance at lower speeds make the C846i ideal for deconditioned users. Other features include: an ergonomic seat, handlebars and pedals; lumbar support; new pedal/strap design; touch heart-rate sensors on seat handles; 12 courses, including watts and fitness test; and seamless housing with easy maintenance. An external power jack optional. CSAFE-compatible. Call 800-786-8404 or visit www.precor.com for more information.
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MATRIX
Combining the best of both upright and recumbent cycling, the H5x Hybrid Cycle offers command seating position with recumbent style comfort such as a back support, moveable arm rests, a step-through style frame and an easy to use console that can be operated by first time users within 30 seconds. This product is truly a hybrid of form and function. At the heart of the machine is a Johnson Integrated Drive (JID) resistance generator with a 5-year part warranty. All Matrix cycles are pre-wired for the optional Matrix FITCONNEXION™ integrated entertainment system and designed for the heaviest commercial applications. Patent Pending.
The Matrix R5x Recumbent Cycle is both functional and aesthetically appealing. The console is designed to be operated by first-time users without assistance within 30 seconds of first use. Simple buttons allow the user to change programs on the fly. Or just press quick-start anytime and go. The step-through frame makes getting onto the machine as simple as sitting in a chair. The two-part seats are designed to hold up for years of use. Ergonomic shaping contours the seat to the body for less pressure on specific points. At the heart of the machine is a Johnson Integrated Drive (JID) resistance generator with a 5-year part warranty. All Matrix cycles are pre-wired for the optional Matrix FITCONNEXION™ integrated entertainment system and designed for the heaviest commercial applications.
Toll Free (works from Canada) 1.866.693.4863 www.matrixfitness.com
TRUE
True Z8 Series represents the ultimate in exercise bikes. Many features have been added including electronic programming capabilities and readout features on the console control panels. Of course, engineers have incorporated ergonomic design features based on the body’s natural form and function. In addition to having the ideal biomechanical design, they look great. All models feature wireless and contact heart rate monitoring, custom LCD display and pre-programmed workouts. Available in upright and recumbent models, Z8 Series bikes are perfectly suited for any facility’s use requirements and aesthetic image demands. Call 1-800-426-6570 or info@truefitness.com for more information.
STARTRAC
The completely re-designed Star Trac Pro Series upright and recumbent bikes will create a distinctive and approachable look for your fitness facility. Both bikes offer personal cooling fans along with numerous additional user-focused innovations. The upright bike features an easy-up seat adjustment and handlebars designed to incorporate a comfortable racing position. The Pro recumbent bike features a walk-through design and exclusive reading station incorporating armrests and a sliding book/magazine clip. Call 800-228-6635 or visit www.startrac.com for more information
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SPORTSART
The 5200 upright cycle by SportsArt Fitness is built to superior standards. Featuring patented CardioAdvisor™ heart rate display, 5 programs, 2 heart rate control programs and an oversize dot matrix, this cycle has it all. The patented fore-and-aft seat adjustment allows any user to ride in comfort. The solidly constructed steel frame, poly-v belt drive and 500 lbs. max user weight limit prove that this cycle is built to last in even the highest traffic facility.
The SportsArt Fitness C5150 recumbent cycle is a premium quality cycle with advanced features. The comfortable seat reclines in 6 different positions to fit users of any size. The 5150 is also equipped with SportsArt’s patented CardioAdvisor feature that allows users to view their heart rate goals for cardio and weight loss training throughout the workout. Features include two methods of heart rate control, 5 programs, infrared remote and an oversize dot matrix display. Call 1-800-709-1400 or visit info@sportsartamerica.com for more information.
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CYBEX
The Cybex Cyclone series of cycles have three modes of bike operation and a resistance range from 15 to 900 watts making the cycles ideal for general fitness to high performance training. Optimal console placement positions the display in the rider’s field-of-view and out of the path of sweat. The Cyclone-C upright has a proprietary seat design that offers a comfort groove and is shaped to fit the user. Multi-position handlebars accommodate a variety of riding styles. The Cyclone-R recumbent has a unique seat design that features a seat back with a chimney-style vented surface and seat base with optimized shape to conform to a wide variety of users.
Call 774-324-8000 or visit www.cybexinternational.com for more information.
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LIFE FITNESS
The Life Fitness 95Ci Lifecycle exercise bike features a biomechanically correct, angled seat post to ensure proper knee position, 27 seat adjustments and the Comfort Curve Plus seat. Self-powered, the bike offers 25 resistance levels and 29 programs, including five Zone Training+ workouts and Air Force PRT and Fit Test protocols. Heart rate monitoring is available through Polar telemetry and Lifepulse hand sensors in the both the upright and racing handlebar positions. A dual-level console allows users to view their profiles while they read. For personal entertainment, the unit can be equipped with Life Fitness’ Attachable LCD E-Z TV Console.
The Life Fitness 95Ri Lifecycle recumbent exercise bike boasts a contoured back-supported seat with 34 adjustment positions. Wide Ride pedals measure five inches across and offer 11 strap-adjustment options. Heart rate monitoring is available through dual Lifepulse hand sensors and Polar telemetry. Among the 29 workouts on the self-powered unit are five Zone Training+ workouts and Air Force PRT and Fit Test protocols. A dual-level console allows riders to view their profiles while they read. Users can select from up to nine different languages. For personal entertainment, the bike can be equipped with Life Fitness’ Attachable LCD E-Z TV Console.
Call 800-634-8637 or visit www.lifefitness.com for more information.
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