In our Bowflex T6 treadmill review, product tester Caitlin Giddings shares her workout experience on what she calls one of the best budget treadmills. We’ll also dive into the machine specs and stats to show you how it stacks up to other options.

How We Test Treadmills

Customizations

Programming

Ergonomics

Our Process

About Us

We consider how well a treadmill can accommodate a wide range of fitness levels and workout types, like flat, fast runs and hill sessions. To achieve such setups and intensities, a machine should have worthwhile speed and incline ranges. We award a benchmark 3-out-of-5 rating to treadmills capable of speeds up to 10 MPH, as well as machines offering incline settings between 0 and 15%. Top scores are given to profiles with faster speed capabilities as well as those with larger incline ranges (some, of which, are even capable of decline settings).

To examine this factor, our testers complete several workouts on each treadmill using either onboard programming or the brand’s integrated fitness programming software. We’ll complete a handful of sessions, taking note of the training’s engagement, ease of operation, and available variety. Treadmills can earn a 3 out of 5 here if they offer at least a handful of preset workout modules, with higher ratings reserved for machines compatible with digital training services with large libraries of streamable training programs.

A home treadmill should be comfortable, after all. Accordingly, we assess deck cushioning and available running space to determine overall comfort at different paces. A score of 3 out of 5 indicates that a treadmill features a relatively accommodating running surface measuring at least 55 inches long by 18 inches wide with some built-in cushioning system for underfoot comfort. Higher scores are awarded to more spacious running decks or machines with well-executed cushioning tech.

We utilize our in-depth treadmill testing methodology to evaluate these popular machines in key categories such as footprint, durability, dynamic programming, and more. Our findings are then rated on a scale of 1 to 5 for easier interpretation as to which profiles are truly the best of the best.

Our team of experts consists of certified personal trainers, nutrition coaches, Olympic-level athletes, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To date, the GGR team has tested and examined more than 50 treadmills from some of the category’s most-recognized brands.

In 2024, alone, we helped connect 7,325 athletes with the perfect treadmill for their training demands. We’re more than happy to continue that service in 2026 with continued research and reporting.

Bowflex T6 Treadmill

GGR Score

We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.

4.6

Bowflex T6 Treadmill

Bluetooth connectivity

15% incline

No screen

Lifetime frame and motor warranty

30-day return policy

Financing available

Save up to $500 on select strength and cardio equipment See Details

Check Price

Watch Video Review

Foldable

Space-saving SoftDrop folding system makes storage easier in tight spaces.

Incline Options

Features a motorized incline range of 0% to 15% for added workout intensity.

Workout Programming

Compatible with JRNY platform for adaptive workouts and virtual routes.

Monitor

N/A (device holder)

Budget Buyers

Great pick for those looking to stay under $1,000 without skimping on quality.

Home Gym Owners

Space-saving design and foldability make it a smart fit for home gyms.

Cardio Beginners

Easy-to-navigate console and built-in programs are user-friendly for new runners.

Pros of the Bowflex T6

Offers incline training up to 15%

SoftDrop folding design saves floor space

JRNY app compatibility for adaptive workouts

Large 60” L x 20” W running belt supports comfortable strides

Cons of the Bowflex T6

Might be a bit big for some home gyms

JRNY membership required for full tech features

Lacks touchscreen display found in higher-end models

Max speed of 12 MPH might not be enough for sprinters

Motor

3.0-CHP motor

Incline Range

0% to 15%

Speed Range

0 to 12 MPH

Running Surface

60” L x 20” W

The Bowflex T6 offers great value and is routinely discounted under $1,000. Its incline range, folding design, and JRNY compatibility make it a solid pick for walking, jogging, and general fitness training at home.

What to Know Before You Buy

• The Bowflex T6 has an integrated tablet holder, but no built-in touchscreen. Its LCD display offers basic workout metrics, but you’ll need a tablet to stream entertainment or workout classes.
• Bowflex uses JRNY programming, which is solid, but not our favorite. This treadmill is also compatible with Zwift and Peloton for data tracking and workout logging.
• If you live in a small space, the Bowflex T6 probably isn’t for you. While our tester found it manageable to move around, it’s still quite large and needs a dedicated space. 

Bowflex T6 Treadmill Video Review

Is the Bowflex T6 Treadmill Worth It?

The answer is always, “It depends,” but in the case of the Bowflex T6 treadmill, we can confidently say it’s worth it for almost anyone who’s in the market for a treadmill. The price is absolutely right for the features, and it’s backed by a lifetime frame-and-motor warranty for added peace of mind.

Still think the T6 is totally the right tread for your training? Let’s continue with some key specs and workout experience notes.

Bowflex T6 Treadmill: Key Features & Specs

Experience Using the Bowflex T6 Treadmill

GGR expert tester Cait Giddings spent enough time with the Bowflex T6 to get acquainted with all its features. In particular, she enjoyed speed workouts on this treadmill, stating, “I cranked the speed up to a sprint, and at no point did I feel like I was going to slide off the back of the machine or take a wide step off the side of the deck.”

She adds, “I also appreciated how short the side arms are. It’s easy to hit a fast running pace and swing your arms without worrying that you’re going to slam an elbow into one.” 

With many treadmills, making adjustments to your speed and incline can feel cumbersome and annoying, and even prevent you from doing so mid-run in some cases. That’s not so with the T6, according to Cait. “I particularly like the front handholds that allow you to change pace and incline using a smooth-feeling dial.”

If you struggle with joint or shin pain during running, a cushioned treadmill like the Bowflex T6 can also be a good way to reduce joint impact. Research has shown that treadmill running reduces tibial shock (impact to the shinbone) compared to road running¹.

Bowflex T6 Treadmill Rating

Footprint and Portability

This is a BIG treadmill—emphasis on “big,” per Cait. “It doesn’t have a very compact footprint because the running deck is so long and wide,” she says. She’s quick to point out, though, that a large deck can be ideal for running. 

The Bowflex T6 measures 76 inches (6.3 feet) long by 35 inches (about 3 feet) wide by 71 inches (just under 6 feet) high. When folded, it’s just 44 inches (3.6 feet) long, but the width and height measurements remain the same. 

Still, Cait rates this folding treadmill at 4 out of 5 for footprint and portability, saying, “I was able to lift the deck to fold it up with no issues, tilt it back onto its wheels, and move it around the warehouse by myself. So, it’s definitely portable, but even when folded, it takes up a lot of space in a room.”

Delivery and Setup

Bowflex offers three shipping options for the T6 treadmill: 

• Standard (to your door) for $199 
• Room-of-choice delivery for $249
• Room-of-choice delivery and assembly for $349 

Note that none of these options are available for buyers in Alaska or Hawaii; those outside of the contiguous U.S. will need to look elsewhere for a treadmill. 

We’re bummed to see a lack of free standard shipping, as that’s become pretty standard across treadmill brands. That said, it’s typical for anything beyond standard front-door shipping to cost extra. Cait still rates the delivery and setup process at 4 out of 5 because while it does take some time to assemble, Bowflex’s instructions are clear and easy to follow. “The professional might be worth springing for, depending on your budget and patience with assembly projects, but the process should be manageable for most,” she says.

Durability

The Bowflex T6 surpasses our benchmark standards for a 3-point score in the durability category. Its 325-pound maximum user weight capacity and 3.0-HP treadmill motor earn it a perfect 5 out of 5. 

“It feels like a tank—big, heavy, and like it’s unlikely to wear down quickly with use,” Cait says. “When I cranked up the speed to the max and ran on it, the tread felt solid and sturdy beneath me with no swaying, rocking, or hitches. Everything felt smooth and well-built.”

Customizations

Our customizations rating refers to the ability to customize workout variables to meet different training needs. For treadmills, that mainly means the speed and incline ranges. The Bowflex T6 meets industry averages for top speed (12 MPH) and exceeds the average for incline (15% compared to the typical 12%). 

“It’s rare to see a range this big on a treadmill in this price range,” Cait says in reference to her 5-out-of-5 rating. “The incline simulates a real hike or mountain run. Anyone looking for a good range on their treadmill for high-level running will be more than happy with this machine.” 

The only downside, Cait points out, is that it doesn’t decline for simulated downhill running. If you’re looking to mimic the outdoor running paths you’re likely to encounter with your best trail running shoes, you’ll need to opt for a different (oftentimes, more expensive) home treadmill profile.

Ergonomics

The Bowflex T6 treadmill features a running area that is 20 inches wide by 60 inches long, which Cait calls, “A nice size for running.” It is, in fact, the recommended size for most runners, though a 22-inch width can be ideal for larger or taller athletes.

RELATED: Best Treadmill for Tall Runners

Cait says she felt stable and balanced on the T6’s running deck, even when putting forth full-sprint efforts. Plus, the belt feels thick and well-cushioned, she notes. The running belt’s FlexZone cushion is 1.6 millimeters thick; double our 0.8-millimeter benchmark for a 3-point score.

The T6 treadmill also sports quick-change dials for intra-workout adjustments, which only bolstered our 5-out-of-5 rating justification. “I particularly like the front handholds that allow you to change pace and incline using the integrated QuickDial system,” Cait adds. We’d have to agree: This style is substantially more comfortable and easier to use compared to traditional on-console click buttons.

Tech Capabilities

With its Bluetooth connectivity, smartwatch compatibility, and multi-app support, the Bowflex T6 almost earned a perfect score for its tech package. Cait knocked off one point for a score of 4 out of 5 because there’s no integrated touchscreen display. That said, Bowflex does include a convenient media shelf for DIY streaming setups.

“If you have your own Bluetooth-synced tablet, there’s no shortage of tech integration here,” Cait says. “The treadmill integrates with popular workout apps like JRNY, Peloton, Zwift, and more for interactive workouts. It also syncs with an Apple Watch or Samsung Galaxy Watch for fitness tracking.”

As a full-fledged subscriber to the Garmin ecosystem, I’m disappointed to learn that Garmin isn’t in the Bowflex club. However, even that wouldn’t be a dealbreaker for me regarding the T6 treadmill; it’s still a high-quality machine. 

To measure your heart rate while running, you can connect a compatible heart rate monitor or use the hand sensors on the railings. With the latter, you’ll get real-time (albeit less accurate) readouts, along with time, distance, calories, speed, incline, pace, laps, split timer, and segment time.

Conveniences

You won’t be missing any creature comforts when running on the T6. For starters, the console is incredibly well designed with lots of ways to quickly adjust the speed and incline across the handholds and display. 

“You can crank up both using a little wheel or instant number adjustments that make it a snap to go from 1 MPH to 12 MPH as fast as the belt can speed up,” Cait raves. 

The console also has a second media shelf (in addition to the main device holder) and two water bottle holders. Plus, there’s a fairly powerful built-in fan in the middle of the console with three power settings. It also has Bluetooth speakers, so you can play music without headphones. 

Dynamic Programming

Bowflex’s proprietary workout streaming platform is JRNY, which you can use with the T6 treadmill. It’s robust enough for engaging weekly workouts, though we think iFIT workouts beat out the library available via JRNY in terms of variety and engagement. That said, you don’t have to stick with the JRNY app for this treadmill. 

In fact, the console doesn’t have a touchscreen, so most of the interactive programming comes through syncing with third-party fitness apps like Zwift and Peloton. We honestly really like the flexibility here. If you already subscribe to, say, Zwift, there’s no need to stack on another subscription to enjoy all of the features of the T6.

The basic digital LCD screen has a few limited workout modes of its own, too, like rolling hills or intervals, for those who prefer something quick and basic. In total, we rate the dynamic programming at 4.5 out of 5.

Value

You’re truly getting a lot for your money here, folks. Take it from Cait: “This machine feels super-sturdy and well-built for a sub-$1,300 treadmill. It doesn’t have quite the smooth, cushioned pad of a really high-end, gym-level treadmill, but that’s rare for anything under $2,000.”

Cait continues, stating, “For the functionality, durability, ease of use, and most importantly, wide speed/incline range, I think $999 is a good [sales] price. That said, if you don’t have your own tablet and you’re looking for an integrated screen, this isn’t the treadmill for you.”

Customer Experience

The warranty on this Bowflex machine is as good as it gets for treadmills: Lifetime coverage on the frame and motor (the most important bits). You also get two years on all other parts, plus a year of coverage for labor. Additional protection plans are available for an added cost.

The company also has a 30-day return policy for a full refund, which is the industry standard and generous given you’ll probably notice any defects or damage well before the 30 days are up. You are, unfortunately, on the hook for the freight shipping cost. Your refund will be less that amount, and you might be subject to a restocking fee. This is all annoying, but not out of the ordinary for cardio machines like this. 

If you need to get in touch with Bowflex, you can do so through various channels, including email, phone, and Facebook. There’s no live chat option, unfortunately.

Customer Reviews

Customer reviews are generally positive for the T6, with most in the 4 to 5 range. At the time of writing, the Bowflex T6 has a 4.5-star rating on Bowflex and a 4.2-star rating on DICK’S Sporting Goods.

Most buyers find it to be quiet and easy to use, with some people complaining about the Bluetooth connectivity being finicky and others calling out issues with damaged packaging upon delivery. That’s typically not the fault of the manufacturer, but rather the carrier. It’s still frustrating, though.

On the Bowflex website, one buyer says, “This treadmill has reignited my love for running! The Peloton app works seamlessly with this treadmill, making workouts a blast.” 

Bowflex T6 Treadmill Vs

To provide some contrast to the Bowflex T6, let’s examine two other popular treadmill profiles that we’ve extensively tested: The Horizon 7.0 AT and NordicTrack Commercial 1750.

When you compare the Bowflex T6 and the Horizon 7.0 AT, you’re really looking at two solid, budget-friendly treadmills that are great for everyday home workouts. The T6 has a responsive drive system with up to 15% incline and robust app connectivity (train with JRNY, Peloton, Zwift, or track metrics with a compatible fitness tracker). Meanwhile, the Horizon 7.0 AT keeps things straightforward but effective with Bluetooth connectivity and a simple LCD console that also plays nicely with third-party apps, making it easy to stream workouts from a variety of sources. 

Both are good options if you don’t want to be locked into a single subscription platform. Read our full Horizon 7.0 AT treadmill review for more details.

Putting the T6 up against the NordicTrack Commercial 1750, you’ll notice some differences in tech and ergonomics (as well as price). The T6 gives you a generous running deck, plenty of incline, and the ability to use your own phone/tablet with apps you already love, which is great if you want flexibility without a big upfront cost. 

The NordicTrack 1750, on the other hand, brings an integrated touchscreen, iFIT compatibility unlocking thousands of trainer-led workouts, automatic adjustments to speed and incline, and a slightly more powerful motor designed for more frequent and varied training. You will, however, be paying for these features, with the list price of the 1750 sitting about $1,200 higher than that of the T6. 

Our NordicTrack Commercial 1750 review has all the specifics.

	Bowflex T6 Treadmill	Horizon 7.0 AT	NordicTrack Commercial 1750
Rating	4.6	4.3	4.4
Speed Range	0-12 mph	0.5 – 12 mph	0 – 12 mph
Incline Range	0-15%	0-15%	-3% – 12%
Deck Size	20” W x 60” L	60″ L x 22″ W	60″ L x 22″ W
Programs	Works with JRNY, Peloton, Zwift (sold separately)	8 preset programs	iFIT
Display	N/A	7.25″ high contrast LCD screen	Pivoting 16″ touchscreen
	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

Final Verdict of Our Bowflex T6 Treadmill Review

The Bowflex T6 thoroughly impressed our expert product tester, and its price point strengthens its value proposition. We think it’s a solid choice for almost any home gym and can support everything from high-intensity interval training to marathon training.

• The T6 is robustly built, with an above-average 325-pound user weight capacity and strong 3.0-HP motor. 
• Those who need to train hills for trail runs or destination races will appreciate the 15% max incline, which is 3% above the industry average. 
• The lifetime warranty on the frame and motor are rarely seen at this price point. 
• The T6 is as good for everyday health, fitness, and weight loss as it is for serious runners training for a big race.

Bowflex T6 Treadmill Review: FAQs

References

1. Johnson CD, Outerleys J, Jamison ST, Tenforde AS, Ruder M, Davis IS. Comparison of Tibial Shock during Treadmill and Real-World Running. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2020;52(7):1557-1562.

In this Aviron Strong Go Rower review, I’ll share everything you need to know about this budget-friendly alternative to the brand’s original rowing silhouette: The Aviron Strong Series Rower. Interested in leveling up your at-home training? Let’s get into our findings.

Put to the Test by Home Gym Equipment Experts

Our team here at Garage Gym Reviews includes certified personal trainers, gym owners, strength coaches, registered dietitians, and even an Olympian. Between us, we’ve tested countless pieces of fitness equipment over the years, including more than 30 different rowing machines. 

While we haven’t tested the Aviron Strong Go Rower extensively yet, multiple team members have used and tested the original Aviron Strong Series Rower, which is the exact same rower sans a 22-inch rotating HD touchscreen.

As part of our multi-point examination, we used our rowing machine testing methodology to calculate ratings on a scale of 1 to 5 for a variety of important categories, including: 

• Footprint and Portability: This score rates the overall size of a rower, as well as how easy it is to move around. To earn 3 out of 5 stars, one person can move the rower alone, and it easily stands up vertically or folds for storage.
• Adjustability and Ergonomics: We rate the rowing experience based on feel and how much you can customize the rower to your needs. To earn at least 3 out of 5 stars, a rower should comfortably accommodate users between 5 feet, 2 inches and 6 feet, 4 inches. Footbeds should also feature some customization for accommodating different foot sizes, and resistance should be toggleable across a moderate range of intensities.
• Dynamic Programming: For rowers with built-in programming, this score rates the quality of the workouts, the variety of options, and any other training-specific features. To earn 3 out of 5 stars, a rower should feature, at minimum, a handful of built-in workouts, like a 500-meter or 2,000-meter set. Bonus points are awarded to machines compatible with streamable workout libraries of on-demand or live classes.

Aviron Strong Go Rower

GGR Score

We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.

4.1

Aviron Strong Go Rower

Gamified workouts

Dual resistance

Vertical storage

20-year limited

30-day trial

Free shipping

Get $100 in savings See Details

Check Price

Display

None, use your own device

Value

We rated the value a 4.5 out of 5 due to its fun built-in workouts, high weight capacity, and solid construction

Foldable?

No

Workout Programming

Aviron gamified workouts

Interactive Riders

Aviron’s gamified workouts make you feel like you’re in an arcade video game

Those Tight on Space

Can be stored vertically so it takes up less room in your home gym

Pros

Quiet belt

Vertical storage

507-lb. weight limit

Gamified workouts

Cons

No built-in screen

Bulky and not foldable

Product Dimensions

84”L x 27”W x 48”H

Weight Capacity

507 lbs

Resistance Type

Dual air and magnetic

Warranty

10-year frame warranty, with optional lifetime warranty

The Aviron Strong Go rower is a strong, durable rowing machine that offers dual air and magnetic resistance, which means you’ll have tons of adjustments and customizations. To use the Aviron app, you’ll need your own device but following along makes workouts more fun and engaging.

What our tester says:

“Aviron gamified training is pretty special, and if you want a gamified experience, this is a great value.”

A Quick Look at the Aviron Strong Go Rower

For those who are familiar with the original Aviron Strong Series Rower, the Go edition is the exact same rowing machine without the built-in 22-inch HD touchscreen. Instead, the Aviron Strong Go is designed to work with your own iPad, saving significant money across the build. The rower syncs with your media device via Bluetooth for a seamless rowing experience. 

At the time of writing, the original Strong Series Rower costs $2,499, while the Strong Go Rower only costs $1,599. With the Go, you’re missing out on the 22-inch rotating HD touchscreen, but if that’s not important to you and you already have access to a Bluetooth-ready media device, the Go can save you up to $900.

The Aviron app is only available on the App Store, so for now, you need to use an iPad, though Android support may arrive at some point in the future. This can be somewhat confusing, since the MyAviron Companion app (a tracking and community service separate from the Aviron workout library) is available for iOS and Android.

The rower is durable and comfortable to use, and Aviron offers some of the most unique programming we’ve seen. There are plenty of classes, scenic rides, challenges, and games to enjoy, and the platform is integrated with popular entertainment apps like Spotify, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and more. So, if you often find yourself bored and zoning out during cardio sessions, the Aviron Strong Go Rower may be just the thing you need. 

Before You Buy

• The Strong Go rower is nearly identical to the original Strong Series rower, but an iPad holder has replaced the 22-inch touchscreen, so you can use your own device. 
• At the time of writing, the Aviron app is only available on the App Store, so you have to use an iPad or iOS-powered iPhone. 
• The rower uses dual air and magnetic resistance for an exceptionally smooth rowing experience.

Is the Aviron Strong Go Rower Worth It?

The Aviron Strong Go rower is $900 cheaper than its big brother, the original Strong Series Rower, but that doesn’t make it a perfect fit for all users. Here’s who we think should consider the Aviron Strong Go, as well as who may want to avoid it.

Great for:

• iPad owners looking for an interactive virtual rowing experience
• Aviron fans interested in a more budget-minded rowing machine
• Athletes living in small spaces—the Aviron Strong Go is capable of vertical storage

Not recommended for:

• Anyone seeking a budget-friendly rower with a cost below $1,600
• People who want a large, built-in touch screen
• Individuals who don’t enjoy virtual games and challenges in their workout routine

Aviron Strong Go Rower Specs

Experience Using the Aviron Strong Go Rower

For this review, two of our staff members used the original Strong Series rower, which is nearly identical to the Aviron Strong Go (minus the built-in touchscreen). Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC, the lead reviewer at Garage Gym Reviews Everything, and GGR Senior Staff Writer Ben Emminger, CNC, CSNC trained with this rowing machine for multiple weeks, taking notes on their overall experiences and impressions.

Both Ben and Lindsay are experienced product testers who’ve used countless pieces of exercise equipment over the years, and both were thoroughly impressed by the Aviron layout. In addition to the wide variety of available virtual programs, the rower is surprisingly quiet, comfortable, and ergonomic with multiple adjustment points at the footbeds and seat.

Lindsay said, “What initially caught my attention was how smooth it felt; really solid, no shakiness, and everything felt consistent.”

Yes, it costs more than alternatives like the legendary Concept2 RowErg, but the Strong Go offers some of the best virtual rowing experiences we’ve ever witnessed, all at a significantly lower cost than the original Strong Series.

RELATED: Best Budget Rowing Machines

Overall, this can be a great way to get in your cardiovascular training, which is associated¹ with a number of health benefits including improved blood pressure, heart rate, and a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.

Let’s dive deeper and get into the particulars of this engaging, entertaining rower setup.

Footprint and Portability

For footprint and portability, the Strong Go rower earns 3 out of 5 stars. It’s not the heaviest rower on the market, but it’s also not the lightest, so we feel it deserves an average rating for this category. 

The rower weighs 105 pounds, so it’s a little heavier than other lighter models, and has a footprint of 84 inches long by 27 inches wide by 48 inches tall. However, we found it wasn’t difficult for one person to move, and it can be stored upright without a stand or wall mount, which is a great feature. “The 83-inch vertical height in storage is also well-below the 8-foot standard ceiling², which can be excellent when training in a finished basement or smaller space,” adds Ben.

RELATED: Best Compact Exercise Equipment

Durability and Construction

The Aviron Strong Go Rower has very durable construction and a high weight capacity relative to the product’s weight, so we give it 4 out of 5 stars for the category. 

Even though the rower itself only weighs 105 pounds, it features a maximum user weight of 507 pounds; nearly five times the frame weight. The average rower we’ve tested weighs about 96 pounds and has a 353-pound weight capacity, so this Aviron impressed us on metrics alone. 

The nylon belt feels durable, as well, and overall, we’re impressed with the build quality of this machine. If it weren’t for some plastic components, we’d give it a perfect rating here, but that’s not necessarily a dealbreaker. We don’t have any serious concerns about durability, and the rower should last for years with proper care.

Adjustability and Ergonomics

This rower earns a strong 5 out of 5 for adjustability and ergonomics. While most rowers don’t offer much in the way of adjustments aside from adjustable foot straps, the Aviron Strong Go Rower features four-way adjustable foot pads, a rotating handlebar, and a high seat that sits 20 inches above the floor, making it accessible for a wide range of body types. 

It also feels good to use, too, according to product tester and certified personal trainer Lindsay Scheele.

“You can move your feet further or closer together with a simple knob, which is something I haven’t seen on other rowers,” she explained. “The seat also sits pretty high off the ground, so it’s not hard to get into, which is great if you struggle with mobility.”

RELATED: The Best Low-Impact Cardio Exercises

We also found the dual magnetic and air resistance to be quite smooth. It doesn’t have the same feel as something like an Ergatta Rower, but it’s significantly quieter than most air rowers we’ve tried. “I really like that resistance can be intensified to 100 pounds, too,” states Ben Emminger, NASM-CNC, NASM-CSNC. “It’s quite the range, and certainly a challenge when powering through a gamified workout.”

Dynamic Programming

Aviron’s extensive library of workout options truly sets it apart, and it earns 5 out of 5 stars for dynamic programming. 

Before we get into the guided workouts, let’s briefly touch on the screen itself. The original Aviron Strong Series Rower includes a 22-inch HD touchscreen, while the Strong Go allows you to use your own iPad. This saves money, but it’s worth pointing out that the largest iPad at the time of writing only has a 13-inch screen size. 

We don’t mind this, but if you prefer larger screens, you may want to go with the original iteration.

The Aviron app provides plenty of activities to choose from, including:

• Games (individual or team video games) 
• Coached workouts (great for beginners)
• Power Play (guided and community games with leaderboards)
• Scenic rowing (virtual rowing in beautiful locations around the world)
• Live competitions
• Guided programs
• Pros vs Joes 
• Streaming (work out while you stream Netflix, Hulu, YouTube, and more)

Not only is there plenty to do, but the games are both fun and challenging, Lindsay says. “When I tried the games, I was actually pretty out of breath, and I was surprised how hard they continued to challenge me,” she adds. “It doesn’t feel like a typical workout; it’s actually really fun, and you get pretty involved and into it.”

RELATED: Best Rowing Apps

Many of these features are locked behind the $29 monthly subscription fee, but we feel it’s well worth it. You can still use the rower and track your workouts without an Aviron membership, but you won’t be able to enjoy any games or streaming entertainment. 

Aviron Strong Go Rower vs Concept2 RowErg

Concept2 RowErg

GGR Score

We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.

4.6

Concept2 RowErg

Foldable

Air resistance

Vertical storage

Limited 5-year warranty

30-day trial

No financing

Check Price

Watch Video Review

Read Full Review

Display

Advanced PM5 Performance Monitor with Bluetooth connectivity

Value

We gave this rower a 4.5 out of 5 for value because of its solid performance, durability, and ability to sync with workout apps

Foldable?

Yes

Workout Programming

20 preset workout programs, and syncs with more than 40 fitness apps

Workout Class Lovers

Syncs with just about every fitness app (except iFIT), so you’ll never get bored of the live or on-demand options

Those Tight on Space

Folds and can be stored vertically when not in use.

Pros

Best-selling rowing machine in the world

Accommodates users up to 6.6 feet tall and 500-pound weight

Easy assembly

Adjustable airflow

Cons

Priced around $1,000

Expensive shipping costs

Product Dimensions

96″ L x 24″ W x 14″ H

Weight Capacity

500 lbs

Resistance Type

Air

Warranty

5 years

The Concept 2 Model D Rower is the best rowing machine we’ve tested and reviewed, including those that are much more expensive like the WaterRower. There’s a reason you can find Concept 2 products in nearly every gym in the world, including CrossFit Boxes, and home gyms. After having the Model D for over two years, we are still as satisfied with it as we were on day one.

What our tester says:

“The build quality on this rower is tough…nothing about it feels cheap. Concept 2 is a commercial-grade rower, which means it was built with the intention that it would withstand the punishment of constant use at the gym or the CrossFit box with minimal maintenance required.”

Since we’ve already established comparisons between the original Aviron Strong Rower and the Aviron Strong Go, let’s take this section, instead, to pit the Strong Go against the Concept2 RowErg, one of the most well-known rowers ever made. 

We’ll start with the key differences. The Aviron Strong Go has a shorter rail length and uses a dual air and magnetic resistance system, whereas the Concept2 is an air rower outright. Both have similar weight capacities, but the Concept2 is much lighter at 57 pounds (58 pounds with the available tall leg attachments). 

Additionally, the Aviron Strong Go is primarily built for virtual classes with plenty of options to choose from (as long as you have an iPad). On the other hand, the RowErg is more data-driven with a much smaller PM5 monitor. It gets the job done, but it’s by no means an immersive training experience.

Either rowing machine can do a fine job at helping you reach your fitness goals, but they’re best suited for different users. If you’re a CrossFit or HYROX athlete, or compete with a rower that’s similar to the Concept2, you’ll probably want to choose that silhouette for your home gym setup. The Concept2 is also cheaper at $990, making it a great choice for budget-minded athletes.

However, if you’re simply rowing at home and prefer a cardio machine that’s quieter and packed with virtual gamification features, streaming services, and trainer-led workouts, the Aviron may be the better choice. 

For more, be sure to check out our comparison table below and read our in-depth Concept2 RowErg review.

Customer Experience

If you order directly from Aviron, you shouldn’t have any issues with customer support. Customer support is available via phone, email, or live chat, and Aviron offers a generous return policy. 

If this is your first Aviron purchase, you’ll have 30 days to try it at home. If you’re not satisfied, you can return it free of charge. If it’s not your first order, however, you’ll be charged a 25% restocking fee.

Ordering from Aviron is also recommended given the brand’s impressive 20-year limited warranty. According to the policy, “Aviron will replace or repair any Aviron Product found to be defective in material or workmanship for 20 years from the date of shipment. This applies to the Impact Series, Strong Series, Tough Series, Victory and Fit Bike Products by Aviron, contingent upon consistent and current fee payments of the initial membership and the equipment is purchased directly through our website.” Accordingly, we rate the warranty at 5 out of 5.

Ordering and Assembling the Aviron Strong Go Rower

The ordering experience is smooth and easy, and Aviron provides plenty of options. You can finance your order through Affirm, pay with eligible FSA or HSA funds, and choose from multiple packages that add accessories such as the Cloud seat, a lumbar support pad, upgraded handlebars with built-in control buttons, and more.

Shipping is free within the contiguous United States, though you’ll need to pay for shipping to Alaska or Hawaii. 

The delivery and setup are straightforward, too, and earned 4 out of 5 stars. The product isn’t too heavy, the required tools are included, and Aviron has detailed video instructions available on YouTube. 

Customer Reviews

The customer reviews of this rower are extremely high, averaging 4.9 out of 5 based on 688 testimonies at the time of writing. 

A few four-star reviews mention small technical issues, such as the lack of Garmin syncing, but most users seem very happy, especially with the interactive games. 

Final Verdict of Our Aviron Strong Go Rower Review

If you’re looking for a rower that’s high-quality, built to last, and fun to use, the Aviron Strong Go Rower can be an excellent piece of equipment that’s well worth considering. Yes, you’ll need to have your own iPad, but as long as you’re okay with the smaller screen, we think the $1,599 price tag is justified.

Ben Emminger, CNC, CSNC, adds, “I appreciate the 507-pound weight capacity and the durable drivetrain. If you’re okay with using your own streaming device, this is a great starter rowing machine.”

Competitive rowers, CrossFit athletes, or HYROX participants may prefer a more traditional rower, but for everyone else, this is well worth considering. 

• The Aviron Strong Go Rower is nearly identical to the original Aviron Strong Series rower, but the 22-inch HD screen has been replaced with a tablet holder that only works with iPads.
• It has a surprisingly high weight capacity (507 lbs) for such a light frame (105 lbs). 
• If you struggle with mobility or find rowers uncomfortable, this rower has a higher-than-average 20-inch seat height and multiple adjustment points for additional comfort. 

Aviron Strong Go Rower

The Aviron Strong Go Rower is a strong, durable rowing machine that offers dual air and magnetic resistance, which means you'll have tons of adjustments and customizations. To use the Aviron app, you'll need your own device but following along makes workouts more fun and engaging.

Product Brand: Aviron

Product Currency: USD

Product Price: 1,599.00

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
4.1

Aviron Strong Go Rower Review: FAQs

References

1. Nystoriak, M. A., & Bhatnagar, A. (2018). Cardiovascular Effects and Benefits of Exercise. Frontiers in cardiovascular medicine, 5, 135. https://doi.org/10.3389/fcvm.2018.00135
2. Rybczynski, W. (n.d.). Ceiling Heights in Homes and Offices. https://realestate.wharton.upenn.edu/working-papers/ceiling-heights-in-homes-and-offices/ 

For example, the Yosuda RM6 boasts dual air and magnetic resistance to provide a challenging workout, all while coming in at a lower price than the Concept2 RowErg—often revered as the “gold standard” of rowing machines. Still, how does it compare to the rest of the market? In our Yosuda Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro review, we’ll consider the features and value of this solidly built rower as we determine who this rowing machine is best suited for…and who may want to continue shopping.

Over 30 Rowers, Tested and Reviewed

That’s right. With more than 30 rowing machines tested by our expert team—and twice as many profiles researched—you could say we’re constantly navigating the market in search of the best water rowing machines, air rowers, and other cardio equipment.

The team at Garage Gym Reviews consists of certified personal trainers, strength coaches, and elite-level athletes. This seasoned experience culminates in our detailed fitness guides to give you an informed and honest opinion on the latest and greatest in home gym equipment. In particular, we had Ironman triathlete and ultra runner Steve Svoboda test out the Yosuda RM6 Rowing Machine Pro. Using our rowing machine testing methodology, he rated the rower with scores from 1 to 5 in categories including:

• Footprint and Portability: To accommodate a rowing workout, rowing machines can be somewhat cumbersome while in use, often measuring nearly 8 feet long and 2 feet wide. We rate a rower at 3 out of 5 for its footprint and portability if it can be easily moved by one person, and give extra points to folding rowers or ones that can be stored vertically.
• Durability: How well will a rowing machine last after long-term, consistent use? To gauge a rower’s durability and longevity, we look for weight capacities of at least 250 pounds, and little to no wobbling from the frame at top intensities. Rowers that meet these benchmarks will earn a 3-out-of-5 rating in this category.
• Dynamic Programming: We look for a rowing machine to have at least a few built-in routines and programs, but top scores will often go to interactive programming modules or extensive libraries of streamable studio classes and workouts.
• Value: Here, we look at the price of a cardio machine and how it balances with the features packed within. A 3-out-of-5 score means a rower is priced fairly, but a higher score is awarded if the rower is packed with extras and/or priced competitively.

GGR Score

We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.

3.9

Yosuda Air Magnetic Dragonfly Rower

Bluetooth connectivity

Dual resistance

Detachable storage

5-year frame warranty, 2 years parts

30-day returns

Financing available

Up to $500 off See Details

Check Price

Display

None, use your own device

Value

We rated the value a 3.5 out of 5 because it’s sturdy, durable, and well-built, but still a little basic in its functionality

Foldable?

No, detachable

Workout Programming

Connects to the Feier App for workouts and programming

Subscription-Free

Users who prefer not to pay for a subscription for programming will be happy to know this rower doesn’t require any monthly fees or memberships

Those Tight on Space

Can be detached for storage so it takes up less room in your home gym

Pros

Don't need a subscription

8 levels of magnetic resistance

Detachable frame for storage

20-lb flywheel

Cons

A pricier rower

Adjustments can be difficult to make on handlebars

Product Dimensions

94”L x 23”W x 50.5”H

Weight Capacity

330 lbs

Resistance Type

Dual air and magnetic

Warranty

5-year frame warranty, 2-year warranty on parts

The Yosuda Air Magnetic Dragonfly Rowing Machine is a sturdy and durable rower capable of eight different resistance levels, capping out at about 182 pounds of resistance. With a weight capacity of 330 pounds and a sturdy construction, it felt solid during testing, although it doesn’t have as many technological capabilities as other rowers. Still, it’s compact, being able to detach or be stored upright to save floor space.

A Quick Look at the Yosuda Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro

Yosuda has been around since 2018, and was consolidated under the FED Fitness brand umbrella in late 2025. The founder, Eric Zang, initially began to design cardio equipment to help his wife exercise at home while dealing with persistent health issues. Today, the Yosuda stable features multiple machines and equipment fit for the home gym community with the principle of “family fitness and healthy life.”

The Yosuda brand has designed several different exercise bikes, rowing machines, and ellipticals, but surprisingly, they haven’t developed any treadmills for home use (yet). You’ll have to look at other brands within FED Fitness for a running machine, such as the foldable Feier Treadmill Star 100—now known as the TM1.

Formerly known as the Yosuda Dragonfly rowing machine, the RM6 Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro is a beefier model in comparison to several other Yosuda silhouettes. Its unique resistance system combines air resistance with eight levels of adjustable magnetic resistance—boasting a top intensity of just over 182 pounds.

Before You Buy

• Unlike other rowers, the Yosuda RM6 lacks any sort of display or LCD monitor. Instead, there is a device holder, so you can connect to the FED Fitness app for preset workouts and fitness data tracking. The app is free to use, as well.
• The FED Fitness app will automatically make adjustments to the magnetic resistance, and our testers found this feature convenient and efficient. The handles have buttons to adjust settings, but it can be difficult to know if an adjustment has been made.
• There are two different warranties listed on the product page for the Yosuda RM6—three years total along with five years for the frame and two years for parts. On the specific product warranty page, the RM6 is listed as having a three-year warranty, so that appears to be the correct warranty period.

Is the Yosuda Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro Worth It?

Since the Yosuda RM6 Air Magnetic Rower was first released, the price has actually dropped from $899 to $799, making it a better value than before. I wouldn’t call it a budget rower, exactly, but it comes in at a more affordable price than two similar rowing ergs: the Concept2 RowErg ($990) and Rogue Echo Rower ($925). Plus, it’s a sturdy model in use, backed by a weight capacity of 330 pounds—not as much as Rogue or Concept2, but still a decent user weight limit.

That said, the functionality of the Yosuda RM6 is fairly basic. You’ll have to use your own smart device to connect to the FED Fitness app, and the programming on the platform isn’t going to be as expansive or in-depth as, say, Hydrow or Ergatta’s programs. Our tester, triathlete Steve Svoboda, also found that the seat and foot pedals aren’t the most comfortable. 

We still rate the value at 3.5 out of 5, as the solid build makes it a worthwhile rower for beginners or those on a budget. Also, there’s no subscription fees needed for the app. “I’d recommend this rower to a beginner wanting to see if they want to get into rowing with an entry machine before upgrading,” Steve adds.

Yosuda Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro Specs

Using the Yosuda Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro

Rowing is a popular form of aerobic exercise, intended to increase cardiovascular endurance¹ and also lower your risk of heart disease². Indoor rowing is a low-impact exercise, so it’s less stressful on joints than other forms of cardio such as running.

Additionally, rowing can be unique in that it provides a full-body workout and, with enough resistance, you can even achieve a bit of strength training with this type of fitness equipment for increased muscular endurance in major muscle groups. “Rowing machines engage a wide range of muscles,” adds exercise physiologist Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD. “The legs do most of the work during the drive phase, although the lats and lower back also play a significant role. During the pull phase, the biceps, triceps, and forearms are engaged as well.”

Our product tester Steve Svoboda—an Ironman triathlete and ultra-marathon runner—took the Yosuda Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro for a spin across several interval workouts, noting its stability and functionality throughout his rowing experience. While he has some callouts, Steve notes, “My initial impression is that it’s a solid but basic rower; well-built for what it is, but still fairly basic.” Let’s break down this rower’s strengths and shortcomings in further detail.

Footprint and Portability

When I said I wanted to break this rower down, I was serious. One of the Yosuda RM6’s strengths is that it separates into two parts, making for fairly easy storage post-workout. Even better, the rower has front transport wheels for more convenient maneuverability around your home gym. Steve even told me that it can store upright, although he mentioned, “I’d detach it in two if you have kids, as I wouldn’t want this rower tipping over.”

RELATED: Best Compact Exercise Equipment

At 98 pounds and 94 inches long, the RM6 can still be a bulky piece of equipment at times, but the available storage options and easy mobility earn it a near-perfect 4.5 out of 5.

Durability

Another strong point of the Yosuda RM6 Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro is its solid construction. With an aluminum frame and steel slide rail, the rower can handle some use, especially considering its 330-pound weight capacity. Steve also notes that the rowing machine is sturdy and stable in operation. “It doesn’t need any floor stabilizers like some other rowers and cardio machines might,” he adds, rating the durability at 4 out of 5.

Customizations

Similar to the Concept2 RowErg, the RM6 uses air pushing against the flywheel to create resistance. What separates the RM6 from the pack, though, is the inclusion of magnetic resistance levels for even more intra-workout challenges. There are eight adjustable resistance levels, which can be toggled via the handlebars. When connected to the FED Fitness app, you can also take advantage of the platform’s automatic resistance control for hands-free adjustments mid-training.

While the dual resistance system makes for a unique rowing experience when compared to other best rowing machines, Steve recommends taking advantage of the automatic resistance features of the integrated app. “The buttons on the handlebars adjust the resistance, but it’s difficult to tell what adjustments you’ve made unless you’re connected to the screen,” he says. “I wish it was a bit more straightforward than this.” As such, he rates the customizations at 4.25 out of 5.

Ergonomics

Like some rowing machines, the RM6’s contoured seat isn’t cushioned much, and it doesn’t provide a lot of support around the edges. Despite the more rigid seating arrangements, the slide rail does clock in at 47.24 inches, which should accommodate a variety of heights and body types (although Yosuda doesn’t specify an ideal height range).

The foot pedals are also adjustable for a smaller or larger foot size, but Steve notes that the heel counters toward the back of the pedals weren’t comfortable. Overall,  the Yosuda RM6 gets a 3.75 out of 5 for its adjustability and ergonomics.

Tech Capabilities and Programming

If you haven’t gotten the gist yet, the Yosuda Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro is a basic rowing machine, and if there’s an area where it is most basic, it lies in its tech capabilities and dynamic programming.

The most obvious difference between most rowers and the RM6 is the lack of a center console. Rather than an LED or LCD display, there’s a device holder that can support your smartphone or tablet. The rower can connect via Bluetooth to your phone and display metrics through the FED Fitness app. There’s no heart rate monitor on the rowing machine, either, but you can connect a smart watch or fitness tracker to the app and monitor accordingly.

Even though it lacks a lot of technology on the rower itself, the Bluetooth connectivity allows you to access metrics, data, and workouts, so we still rate the tech capabilities at a modest 4 out of 5. That said, the programming provided isn’t anything stellar—aside from the fact that it’s free. The modules are basic rowing workouts led by an instructor. There’s nothing, in particular, to make them stand out, so the dynamic programming gets a 2 out of 5.

Yosuda Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro vs Concept2 RowErg

GGR Score

We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.

4.6

Concept2 RowErg

Foldable

Air resistance

Vertical storage

Limited 5-year warranty

30-day trial

No financing

Check Price

Watch Video Review

Read Full Review

Display

Advanced PM5 Performance Monitor with Bluetooth connectivity

Value

We gave this rower a 4.5 out of 5 for value because of its solid performance, durability, and ability to sync with workout apps

Foldable?

Yes

Workout Programming

20 preset workout programs, and syncs with more than 40 fitness apps

Workout Class Lovers

Syncs with just about every fitness app (except iFIT), so you’ll never get bored of the live or on-demand options

Those Tight on Space

Folds and can be stored vertically when not in use.

Pros

Best-selling rowing machine in the world

Accommodates users up to 6.6 feet tall and 500-pound weight

Easy assembly

Adjustable airflow

Cons

Priced around $1,000

Expensive shipping costs

Product Dimensions

96″ L x 24″ W x 14″ H

Weight Capacity

500 lbs

Resistance Type

Air

Warranty

5 years

The Concept 2 Model D Rower is the best rowing machine we’ve tested and reviewed, including those that are much more expensive like the WaterRower. There’s a reason you can find Concept 2 products in nearly every gym in the world, including CrossFit Boxes, and home gyms. After having the Model D for over two years, we are still as satisfied with it as we were on day one.

What our tester says:

“The build quality on this rower is tough…nothing about it feels cheap. Concept 2 is a commercial-grade rower, which means it was built with the intention that it would withstand the punishment of constant use at the gym or the CrossFit box with minimal maintenance required.”

The construction of the Yosuda Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro is similar to the “gold standard” of rowing machines—the Concept2 RowErg—so it’s only fair to compare it to this best seller admired by CrossFit athletes, avid fitness enthusiasts, and weekend warriors alike.

In terms of construction, both rowers are built similarly with a metal frame and steel monorail. The Concept2 is rated for more weight, though both proved to be pretty sturdy and durable in our testing. Each rower can also be separated into two pieces or be stored vertically and moved with front wheels.

The Concept2 RowErg uses only air resistance, which is manipulated by a damper setting at the side of the flywheel—a higher setting means more resistance. The Yosuda uses magnetic resistance on top of the air resistance to adjust the total workout intensity. While this combination is more worthwhile in theory, our testers actually found the air resistance to be more intuitive and effective, as manually toggling the magnetic settings was a bit of a guessing game.

While the Concept2 RowErg isn’t known to be tech-riddled, it does come with a PM5 monitor which tracks almost every metric you’d want from an erg: rowing strokes per minute, split times, distance, calories, and more. You can achieve the same on the RM6, but it’ll have to be through your smart device.

While neither has the interactive programming akin to platforms like Peloton or Aviron, Concept2 does provide more metrics and data, which may make it a better option for most, as long as you’re OK with the higher price tag.

You can check out our in-depth Concept2 RowErg review for more information.

Customer Experience 

On FED Fitness’ website, the Yosuda has two warranties listed, but its actual warranty is three years of coverage (according to their warranty page)—a bit below the average we like to see of five years on the frame. It’s typical for more affordable rowers to have shorter warranty periods, so this isn’t too bad of a deal. Financing is available through Klarna, and FED Fitness provides a 30-day return window, although the product must be in its original packaging.

Customer service can be reached through a contact form on the website where they claim to reach you within 24 business hours. They also provide an email address where you can contact the brand between the office hours of 9AM and 5PM (PST), Monday through Friday. FED Fitness and the RM6 earn a 3.5 out of 5 for the overall customer experience.

Ordering and Assembling the Yosuda Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro

The Yosuda RM6 Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro comes in one 128-pound box with not a lot to assemble—just attach the legs to the main frame and slide rail, install the seat, connect the two main pieces, and you’re pretty much set. Still, with the heft of over 100 pounds and the package being nearly 5 feet long, getting the box to your ideal room may be easier said than done. As such, the delivery and setup gets a 4 out of 5.

Customer Reviews

As of this writing, there is only one review of the Yosuda RM6 Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro on the FED Fitness website. While Yosuda products are sold on Amazon, this specific model isn’t available through the A-to-Z online retailer. 

The positive 5-star review praises the sturdiness of the rowing machine capable of supporting the reviewer’s 200-pound frame, and they claim to like the dual air and magnetic resistance, as well. Still, we like to see more customer reviews on fitness equipment to get a sense of the community’s view as a whole, so we’ll update you as new reviews come in.

Final Verdict of Our Yosuda Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro Review

Whether you consider it a pricier budget rower or a lower-end mid-range rowing machine, the Yosuda Air Magnetic Rower can be a more affordable option than the Concept2 RowErg or the Rogue Echo Rower, although the lack of a screen may deter some users. Here are a few things to consider before deciding on your purchase:

• There’s no subscription fee required to access the FED Fitness app, meaning the nearly $800 price tag is all you’ll be paying (after shipping and taxes).
• While there’s no screen on the rower, the RM6 connects to the FED Fitness app through Bluetooth. It’ll track metrics and have basic workouts, but it shouldn’t be compared to higher-end programs like Hydrow or Ergatta.
• The compact storage options and solid construction of the RM6 are its strong points, featuring parceled and vertical storage capabilities and a 330-pound weight capacity.
• The dual air and magnetic resistance is innovative, although making adjustments wasn’t as intuitive as we would’ve liked.

Full Rating

Yosuda Air Magnetic Rowing Machine

The Yosuda Air Magnetic Dragonfly Rowing Machine is a sturdy and durable rower capable of eight different resistance levels, capping out at about 182 pounds of resistance. With a weight capacity of 330 pounds and a sturdy construction, it felt solid during testing, although it doesn't have as many technological capabilities as other rowers. Still, it's compact, being able to detach or be stored upright to save floor space.

Product Brand: YOSUDA

Product Currency: USD

Product Price: 799.00

Product In-Stock: InStock

Yosuda Air Magnetic Rowing Machine Pro: FAQs

References

1. Xiaochen Lin, MS, Xi Zhang, PhD, Jianjun Guo, MD, Christian K. Roberts, PhD, Steve McKenzie, PhD, Wen‐Chih Wu, MD, Simin Liu, MD, ScD Simin_liu@brown.edu, and Yiqing Song, MD, ScD. Effects of Exercise Training on Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Biomarkers of Cardiometabolic Health: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Journal of the American Heart Association (AHA), Volume 4, Number 7. https://doi.org/10.1161/JAHA.115.002014
2. Mersy D. J. (1991). Health benefits of aerobic exercise. Postgraduate medicine, 90(1), 103–112. https://doi.org/10.1080/00325481.1991.11700983

The trick, though, is finding the right treadmill for your needs and preferences. In our MERACH T12 Foldable Walking Treadmill review, we’ll cover the benefits and drawbacks of this budget-friendly cardio machine with real product tester insights to help you decide if this is the one destined profile for your weekly workouts. 

How We Test Treadmills

Footprint & Portability

Durability

Customizations

Our Process

About Us

Most treadmills take up around 18 square feet of space—equivalent to a 6-foot by 3-foot rug. Compact or foldable models score higher in this category, while oversized or bulky ones score lower. Machines that one or two people can move without fuss earn at least a 3 out of 5, too.

To hit a baseline score of 3 out of 5, a treadmill should support at least 275 pounds, have a 2.5-CHP motor, and stay steady at high speeds or inclines. Stabilizers, sturdy materials, and thicker belts bump scores up, while excessive plastic or noticeable shaking brings them down.

We rate treadmills on how much you can control the available speed and incline ranges. Average models earning a 3-out-of-5 rating top out around 10 miles per hour and 10% inclines, respectively. Higher ratings go to machines with wider speed ranges, steeper inclines, and bonus features like decline training capabilities or hands-free settings adjustments.

Between our personal experience and objective, multi-point treadmill testing methodology, we’ve tested more than 70 treadmills to date. When testing treadmills, a few key criteria we evaluate include dynamic programming, ergonomics, value, assembly, and more.

The GGR product testing team consists of certified personal trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, real marathoners, triathletes, and hybrid athletes. We’ve been logging treadmill miles for years.

MERACH T12 Foldable Walking Treadmill

GGR Score

We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.

3.9

MERACH T12 Foldable Walking Treadmill

Affordable

Foldable

Bluetooth connectivity

1-year manufacturer warranty

Financing options available

Up to 7.5 MPH max speed

Get 33% off the Merach T12 See Details

Check Price

Foldable?

Yes, with a hydraulic lever

Value

It’s not the fanciest treadmill but it’s compact and will get the job done, so we rated the value a 5 out of 5.

Monitor

LCD screen that shows time, distance, calories burned, speed, and more

Workout programming

Free access to the MERACH app

Affordability

At under $400, this treadmill is a great choice for budget-conscious shoppers.

Weight Capacity

The 300-lb weight capacity makes it suitable for users with different body types.

Foldable Design

It’s easy to fold when not in use, and the hydraulic lever allows it to unfold slowly and safely.

Pros of the MERACH T12

Budget-friendly

Bluetooth connectivity

Foldable

Lightweight

Cons of the MERACH T12

Have to manually adjust the incline

Short warranty

No included touchscreen

Product dimensions

52.4″ D x 27.6″ W x 49.2″ H

Tread Belt Size

42.5” L x 16.5” W

Speed

0.5-7.5 MPH

Motor

2.5 HP

The MERACH T12 Treadmill is an affordable and foldable treadmill that’s ideal for walking. It doesn’t offer much in terms of technology or conveniences, but it works well for getting some additional movement in during the day. It takes up less than 5 square feet of space when folded, making it suitable for small home gyms.

What our tester says:

“You’ll be making some sacrifices at this price point, but it’s still a decent option for anyone who needs a lightweight and portable treadmill.”

What to Know Before You Buy

• This treadmill has a user weight capacity of 300 pounds, which is higher than the 275-pound minimum we like to see. Still, some may feel more comfortable with a higher weight rating of 325 or 350 pounds.
• The running deck is on the smaller side at 42.5 inches long by 16.5 inches wide. While fine for walking and light jogs, this may not work for taller folks or those who want to do sprint workouts.
• This treadmill does offer incline degrees up to 6%, but the controls are manual—you can’t toggle the settings mid-workout. 

Is the MERACH T12 Foldable Walking Treadmill Worth It?

If dropping a few grand on a treadmill isn’t in your cards, the MERACH T12 Folding Treadmill is a standout option in the budget category. Priced under $400, it delivers a respectable mix of features with a few expected trade-offs. 

It’s not a bells-and-whistles machine like the high-end NordicTrack Commercial 2450 or other commercial options, but it’s one of the most affordable incline models we’ve tested, making it a strong pick for anyone trying to stay within a tight budget without compromising (too much) on performance.

The T12 walking treadmill is one of three MERACH treadmills, and after extensive testing, we think it’s an excellent choice for those who prioritize floor space and budget. Here are some key specs to know to ensure it’s the right fitness equipment for your training needs.

MERACH T12 Foldable Walking Treadmill: Key Features & Specs

Workout Experience with the MERACH T12 Foldable Walking Treadmill

Priced at roughly $329.99, the MERACH T12 stands out as our best budget treadmill for walkers. It doesn’t match the top speeds of higher-end machines, but it can still reach a solid 7.5 miles per hour and offers a 6% incline, which is truly impressive for the cost. (That said, the incline controls are manual; it’s not as easy as pushing a button.)

GGR Senior Editor and longtime runner Cait Giddings gives the T12 an overall rating of 3.9 out of 5, noting, “When I was moving the treadmill and walking on it, it felt very sturdy with no rickety feeling or shaking. I cranked it to the highest running speed, and the treadmill felt very sturdy at this pace, too.” So, while we primarily recommend it for walking, it’s reassuring to know it can handle light jogging or even quicker bursts without feeling unstable.

That said, Cait explained that it was hard to maintain the faster pace because of the shorter running deck, which made her strides feel awkward and constrained.

MERACH T12 Foldable Walking Treadmill Rating

Footprint and Portability

A major perk of the T12 is its small footprint. When folded, it occupies under 5 square feet, making it a great choice for small spaces. Cait put the T12 through testing and came away especially impressed with how little of a footprint this treadmill carries. 

“This treadmill’s strength is its portability and compact size, which makes it ideal for people who are pressed for space yet want to work more movement and walking into their day,” Cait says. “It was easy for me to move around on my own using the rear wheels in the back.”

Thanks to its minimal floor space requirement, hydraulic folding mechanism, and built-in transport wheels, the T12 earns a perfect 5 out of 5 for footprint and portability. 

Related: Best Compact Exercise Equipment

Delivery and Setup

I’ve got good news for all of you who despise fumbling with parts and hardware: This treadmill comes 90% assembled. There’s really not much to do once you unbox the T12 outside of unfolding the frame, attaching the plastic feet and safety clip, aligning the running belt with an Allen key (included), and adding some proper treadmill lubricant to the running surface.

You can also opt for professional in-home delivery and assembly for an additional fee if you wish. It earns a 5 out of 5 for delivery and setup from Cait. That said, we don’t think the extra expense is necessary since the assembly is so straightforward.

Durability

Despite being such a compact treadmill, Cait found the MERACH T12 Foldable Walking Treadmill to be surprisingly durable and sturdy. She rated the durability a 4 out of 5, saying, “I was surprised by how sturdy it feels for a machine this cheap. There was no rickety feeling and no shaking.”

At under $400, this treadmill is a bargain for someone looking for a compact treadmill or a way to get more steps in throughout the day. Cait adds, “It’s definitely not for running, but that’s immediately evident from the short running deck. Dedicated walkers can still get in a great workout on this and then stow it away in a closet.” For reference, we typically recommend a running deck of 55 inches or longer for those interested in running-focused workouts.

Customizations

One feature dropped this treadmill’s customization score down to a 2 out of 5—the lack of motorized incline. There are no buttons to adjust the incline setting; rather, you have to stop the treadmill, get off, and manually adjust the rear toggles. This means you can’t easily do incline treadmill workouts across a range of different pitches. This may be a deal-breaker for some, but no biggie for others. This machine also lacks the speed range of higher-end treadmills, capping out at 7.5 MPH as opposed to the industry average of 10 MPH.

Note: MERACH may be phasing out the manual-incline version of this treadmill. It’s still available on Amazon, but as of this writing, it’s no longer available on the MERACH website. Instead, the T12 available there has a 0-15% automatic incline. When we test the new model, we’ll update our review.

“This machine has more conveniences than I would have expected,” Cait says. “Most treadmills I’ve seen in this price range are more basic.”

Indeed, the T12 t has two water bottle holders, a screen and tablet holder, start/stop buttons, and a heart rate monitor on the grips, which is more than you typically get at this price point.  However, it does lack a built-in fan. 

Adjustability and Ergonomics

Although this treadmill has plenty of upsides, its most noticeable limitations are the compact deck and modest motor size.

It can reach 7.5 MPH, which is more than enough for walking, but the running surface isn’t long enough to support a true running stride. It’s great for steady walks, but as Cait puts it, “If you’re looking for a treadmill that will give you lots of running options, this is not the machine for you.”

Because of the short 42.5-inch deck and narrower range of speed options, we rated its adjustability and ergonomics at 2 out of 5. That said, the cushioning pulls its own weight. Thanks to MERACH’S six-layer shock-absorbing running belt, this can be a solid choice for those who struggle with knee pain. 

Related: Best Treadmills for Bad Knees

Tech Capabilities 

At this price point, we really wouldn’t expect to see a built-in display that’s more than a few inches of LCD readout. However, the MERACH T12 foldable treadmill features a large LED display with a great deal of functionality. Just below it, there’s a small LCD readout for metrics like speed, incline, time, distance, pace, and calories burned. That’s also where you’ll find the speed adjustment toggles and start-stop button. There are optical heart rate monitors on the handlebars, as well. 

Dynamic Programming

This home treadmill comes with 12 onboard workout modules, but it’s also Bluetooth-enabled, and you can use it with the MERACH fitness app, where you can find a number of treadmill sessions and other home workouts. 

“Another surprise here,” Cait says, rating dynamic programming at 5 out of 5. “The machine syncs with an app that tracks all your fitness data and has interactive workouts. It’s no iFIT, but the fact that this is offered at all is impressive for a treadmill this bare-bones and basic.”

Value

On average, you can expect to pay roughly $1,900 for a high-quality treadmill for your home gym space. When compared to this median MSRP, the MERACH T12 definitely stands out with its sub-$330 price tag. Accordingly, we rate this machine at 5 out of 5 for value.

Be mindful, though, that while this is a surefire bargain buy for cardio enthusiasts, we recommend paying close attention to the listed dimensions to ensure your money is well-spent. The shorter running surface and manual incline options can be fine for light jogging and walking, but it may be worthwhile to invest a bit more in your equipment if running and sprint circuits are your cardio of choice.

Customer Experience

MERACH offers a one-year manufacturer’s warranty on the T12 folding treadmill. This is “substandard but not surprising,” Cait says, given the pricing. She rates the customer experience at 3 out of 5, noting the 30-day home trial and money-back guarantee. 

You can open and use the treadmill, and if you don’t like it, you can send it back with the original packaging. The catch is, however, that the customer is on the hook for return shipping (unless the return is due to a manufacturer error). On Amazon, you may get a longer return window, especially during holiday shopping periods like Black Friday.

If you need support, you can email the MERACH customer service team anytime or call between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. 

Customer Reviews

Customer reviews are largely positive, with the MERACH T12 treadmill boasting an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon. 

One buyer states, “I’m happy to say, I am thrilled with it!! Solid construction, according to my partner, easy assembly, side rails which are a must for me as I am handicapped and in my mid sixties, ease of use, concise information on how to utilize all it has to offer for your fitness and health!”

MERACH T12 Foldable Walking Treadmill Vs

If you’re really tight on space and want to bump up your daily movement, consider something like the WalkingPad P1 Classic Folding Treadmill. Designed to work as an under-desk treadmill, the WalkingPad is one of the best treadmills under $1,000 for midday steps. 

Like the MERACH T12, The P1 folds, but not in the way you might think. The walking surface itself actually folds in half. This makes it an exceptional choice for small apartments and studios. It measures just under 33 inches long when folded—not even 3 feet. It also weighs a light 62 pounds, making it easily portable. Read our full WalkingPad review for more details on this machine

For a super-super-budget-friendly option, check out the GoPlus 2-in-1 walking treadmill, which is one of the best treadmills under $300. This compact cardio machine is ideal for walking or casual jogging, especially under a standing desk or in small spaces. 

We appreciate its easy assembly, foldability, lightweight design, quiet operation, Bluetooth speaker, remote control, and overall value for the price. It’s simple to use and store, making it a decent pick if your goal is to stay active at home without investing in a more heavy-duty treadmill. Read our full GoPlus treadmill review for more tester insights. 

	MERACH T12	WalkingPad P1	Goplus 2-in-1
Rating	3.9	4.1	3.8
Speed Range	0.8 – 7.5 mph	0.5 – 3.75 mph	1 – 8 mph
Incline Range	3 levels	N/A	N/A
Deck Size	41.3″ L x 16.5″ W	47.24″ L x 16.5″ W	40″ L x 16″ W
Foldable?
Programs	Access to the MERACH app	N/A	N/A
Display	LED screen	N/A	LED screen
Warranty	3-year frame, 1-year parts	1-year comprehensive	3-month comprehensive
	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

Final Verdict of Our MERACH T12 Foldable Walking Treadmill Review

All in all, we recommend this T12 treadmill to beginners and those who are simply looking to increase their step count throughout the day. It may not be the best option for advanced runners due to its belt size, but it is one of the best space-saving treadmills for light exercise. 

• Even at its affordable price, the MERACH T12 has some features that are typically reserved for more expensive treadmills, like the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 or Horizon Fitness AT 7.0 Studio Tread.
• Despite its 6% incline, this isn’t the best treadmill for incline walking intervals due to the manual control. It may be suitable, though, for walking at a consistent pitch over the course of your entire workout. 
• Conveniences like a water bottle holder and storage tray for your smart device make this machine great for home use.
• The running deck on this treadmill is shorter at 42.5 inches long, so we’d recommend reserving it for walking or light jogging as opposed to running. 

MERACH T12 Foldable Walking Treadmill Review: FAQs

References

1. Kazemi, A., Soltani, S., Aune, D. et al. Leisure-time and occupational physical activity and risk of cardiovascular disease incidence: a systematic-review and dose-response meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 21, 45 (2024).

This premium-priced stair climber certainly isn’t built for budget-conscious buyers. However, if you’re got the financial flexibility to upgrade your cardio game, this can be a fantastic addition to your setup. In this Matrix ClimbMill C50 review, I’ll break down everything from the specifications and display options (you have four choices!) to how it performed during testing so you can decide if it’s time to raise your stepper standards. 

Climbing the Ranks: Our Step-by-Step Process for Testing Stair Climbers

The GGR team includes CPTs, certified nutrition coaches, CrossFit enthusiasts, and an Olympian weightlifter. Although some of us prefer lifting weights over cranking out cardio sessions, we understand the value of both forms of exercise. So, whether we’re assessing the knurl pattern on the best barbells or the built-in programming on the top rowing machines, we take a measured approach to provide unbiased feedback.

Our squad has researched and evaluated more than a dozen stair climbers, including the Matrix ClimbMill C50. We use our fitness equipment testing methodology to grade key factors using a 1-5 scoring system. When it comes to steppers, here’s what we take into account:

• Footprint and Portability
• Delivery and Setup 
• Durability
• Versatility and Ergonomics
• Tech Capabilities and Conveniences 
• Customer Reviews
• Value
• Warranty and Returns

RELATED: StairMaster vs Treadmill

Matrix ClimbMill C50

GGR Score

We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.

3.875

Matrix ClimbMill C50

Premium build

Smooth climb

Console options

Lifetime frame, 5-year parts, 1-year labor

Financing options available

Multiple console configurations

Check Price

Read Full Review

Commercial Feel

Durable construction built for heavy home use

Exact Force

Delivers smooth, quiet resistance transitions

Choice of Consoles

Customize with touchscreen or LED options

Low Step-On Height

Easier access for a wide range of users

Home Gym Owners

Perfect for users who want commercial quality at home

Comfort-Focused

Step-on height and motion are joint-friendly

Tech Customizers

Choose the console that fits your needs

Cardio Enthusiasts

Offers a realistic and challenging stair workout

Pros

Commercial-grade construction

Quiet resistance system

Console variety (touchscreen or basic)

Low step-on height for safety

Cons

Expensive

Large footprint

Heavy—difficult to move

Touch consoles add to cost

Footprint

53” L x 28” W x 75” H

Step-On Height

10.5

Weight Capacity

300 lbs

Resistance System

Exact Force Induction Brake

The Matrix ClimbMill C50 brings commercial-level durability and smooth stair stepping to your home gym, but the size and price make it better suited for serious users with the space and budget to make it work.

A Quick Look at the Matrix ClimbMill C50

The Matrix ClimbMill C50 is a commercial-grade stair climbing machine that offers 25 levels of electronic resistance, industry-leading safety features such as an infrared sensor, reversible steps, and emergency stop buttons, and conveniences like a water bottle holder, heart rate grips, and a sweat management system that tracks sweat away from the ClimbMill’s critical components. 

Most notably, the C50 comes in four display options. Here’s a quick overview of each:

• XR console: Features a clean, bright 8.5” LCD display 
• XER console: Includes a clear 10” touchscreen display with an intuitive home screen, along with WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity 
• XIR console: Has a 16” brilliant HD touchscreen display, WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, and an HDMI port for additional streaming capabilities
• XUR console: Equipped with a premium 22” HD touchscreen display, WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, and an HDMI port

RELATED: Stair Climber vs Elliptical

Before You Buy 

• There’s a significant price gap of about $2,000 between the cheapest model (XR) and the most expensive (XUR). The XR console is listed for $6,099 while the XUR console has an MSRP of $8,499. However, we’ve seen the XR available for as low as $5,299 and the XUR available for about $7,299. 
• This 297-pound stair climber has a fairly compact footprint of 53” L x 28” W x 75” H. Although it has front wheels, we recommend finding a permanent spot for it since it’s quite heavy.
• Despite being marketed to home gym owners, the lifetime warranty voids if you keep the ClimbMill in a non-climate-controlled area. Take this into consideration if you don’t have sufficient space in your home to accommodate this machine.
• The C50 generates quite a bit of noise at higher speeds. If you don’t have headphones on, this could be irksome. 

RELATED: Echelon Stair Climber Sport Review

Matrix ClimbMill C50 Video Review

Is the Matrix ClimbMill C50 Worth It?

With the cheapest model costing more than $5,000 and the most expensive checking in at north of $7,000, the C50 requires a sizable investment. Stair climbers aren’t exactly the most versatile machines, but they have been shown to be effective for improving cardiometabolic disease risk in adults.¹ So, if you want to lose weight, increase your cardiovascular fitness and conditioning, or hit your daily step count, this machine can be a useful tool. 

That said, the ClimbMill C50 is pricey, and the $2,000 difference between the XR and XUR consoles is quite steep. You’ll need to consider how much connectivity matters, along with whether you’re best served spending $5,000+ on a machine that’s somewhat limited compared to something like a functional trainer or even a treadmill, which is a little more versatile.

Matrix ClimbMill C50 Specs

Using the Matrix C50 ClimbMill

GGR Everything Lead Reviewer Lindsay Scheele put the C50 through our in-depth testing process. Overall, she enjoyed her workout experience and had plenty of positive feedback about this machine. However, she also had a few key callouts worth mentioning. 

Footprint and Portability

With assembled dimensions of 53 inches long by 28 inches wide by 75 inches high, the C50 is fairly compact. However, it’s a hefty machine, weighing in at 297 pounds. Despite being outfitted with front wheels, don’t expect to move it around easily. 

“I would just pick a spot, and unless you absolutely have to move it out of the way—don’t touch it,” Lindsay says. “Leave it where it is, because this thing is massive.” 

Another key point to consider is your ceiling height. According to Matrix, you need 25 extra inches from your height to accommodate the machine. 

“If you’re 6’2”, add an extra 25 inches on top of that, and that should be the ceiling height clearance in order to use this,” Lindsay explains. 

Furthermore, you also need to have 24 inches around the C50 that are free from any sort of walls in order for it to ventilate properly. 

“Consider these types of things before you buy this, because you want to make sure you have the available space,” Lindsay says. 

Overall we rate the footprint and portability a 2 out of 5.

Tech Capabilities and Conveniences 

While the footprint score won’t blow anyone away, the C50 earned a perfect 5 out of 5 for tech capabilities and conveniences. Full disclaimer: We tested the XUR console (the top option), which includes a 22” touchscreen display. 

“Essentially, there’s no reason you ever have to leave this stair climber because everything you want to do — scroll, read, watch — it’s in front of you on that touchscreen.” 

In addition to dual-band WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, you get USB and HDMI ports for connecting your devices. The touchscreen consoles come with Netflix, YouTube, Spotify, and other popular entertainment apps, along with social media apps like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and PressReader. You even get a web browser to search for your favorite sites. 

“It comes with speakers on the front that were actually pretty decent, although the music selection on the programming is so bad,” Lindsay explains. 

We also like that you can conduct immersive workouts via Treo Wellness — a platform that lets you experience more than 500 on-demand studio workouts. All Matrix equipment includes one month of free access to Treo — a nice bonus. 

As for conveniences? The C50 includes a water bottle holder, heart rate grips, and a handlebar that has controls to pause, stop, or adjust your resistance. We also have to give a tip of the cap for the Sweat Management System, which tracks sweat away from the machine’s most important components to help prolong the life of the equipment. 

Workout Experience

Capable of reaching 137 steps per minute, you can get quite an intense cardio workout on the C50. 

“When I did a 30-minute session on this at a moderate intensity, I burned about 250 calories,” Lindsay says. “My glutes were on fire and I was sweating like crazy.” 

Unlike rowing machines, the stair function allows you to engage more muscles. 

“Your quads are going to be burning, your glutes, your calves, and even some core work is involved with a stair stepper,” Lindsay explains. “So in terms of steady-state cardio or even HIIT workouts, this is a very good option.” 

Unfortunately, amping up the speed leads to quite a bit of noise. 

“It would be bothersome to me if I didn’t have headphones in because it just became noisy at the higher levels,” Lindsay says. 

On a more positive note, Lindsay was pleased with how safe and stable the machine is. The C50 includes a safety feature that automatically stops the machine when you step off. 

“It’s not a jarring stop—it slowly comes to a stop,” she explains. 

Matrix ClimbMill C50 vs STEPR+

STEPR

GGR Score

We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.

4.1

STEPR Stair Climber

27″ HD touchscreen

Low-impact cardio

Compact footprint

Free shipping available

As low as $139/month

From $139/month

Check Price

XL Touchscreen

Upgraded 27” HD display for more immersive training

Compact Footprint

Slim profile fits through standard doors easily

High-Tech Features

Bluetooth, WiFi, and app streaming support

Diverse Training

Includes guided sessions, scenic routes, and custom workouts

Smart Home Gym Users

Ideal for those who want tech-forward fitness gear

Streaming Fans

Compatible with Netflix, YouTube, Spotify, and more

Joint-Conscious

Great for low-impact cardio without compromising effort

Space Savers

Narrow frame works well in apartments or tight areas

Pros

27” rotating HD screen offers a premium viewing experience

Compact 27.5” width fits through standard doorways

Includes hundreds of on-demand classes

Built-in entertainment apps make training more enjoyable

Cons

Step height may be to short for some users

Touchscreen may take a while to work after installation

May be over-featured for users who want simple workouts

Premium price point could be a barrier for budget-conscious buyers

Width

27.5”

Screen Size

27” HD rotating touchscreen

Step Height

5.2” floating stadium step design

Monthly Financing

From $139/month

The STEPR is a premium take on the original model, offering an upgraded 27-inch screen and a suite of smart features that bring studio-quality workouts into even the tightest spaces. It’s a high-end choice with loads of versatility—just be prepared for the investment.

If you’re on the hunt for a stair climber, the ClimbMill C50 is definitely a worthy option. However, our team has also reviewed the STEPR+ — a similar machine that also carries a pretty hefty price tag. 

Although it’s slightly taller, the STEPR+ is nearly a foot shorter than the C50, making it more footprint friendly. In addition, it caters better to heavy users, as the max weight capacity is 375 pounds compared to just 300 for the C50. Many of the other specs are almost identical, as both machines offer 25 resistance levels and nearly the same steps-per-minute (SPM) range. 

For more details on our experience, check out our full STEPR review.

Customer Experience 

Matrix offers several ways to get in touch with customer service, including e-mail and phone. You can call the company at 888-993-3199 from Monday through Friday between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CST. There’s also a contact form on the company website. 

Matrix’s return policy is pretty standard. You have 30 days to return your equipment for any reason. However, you will be responsible for return freight and assembly charges and a restocking fee. It takes about six to eight weeks for refunds to process. 

One callout Lindsay had was with the company’s warranty policy. Although Matrix provides a lifetime warranty, it voids if you use any of their products in a non-climate-controlled room. This is something we see with other cardio equipment manufacturers, which is a bit frustrating since many members of the home gym community train in a garage or outdoor setting. 

Ordering the Matrix ClimbMill C50

You can order the Matrix ClimbMill C50 directly on the company website. You must select one of the four display options before adding it to your cart. In addition to the cost of the stair climber, you will be charged $249 for White Glove Delivery, which includes delivery to the room of your choice (including one flight of stairs), unpacking, and debris removal. 

Between shipping and taxes, expect to pay quite a bit more than than the listed price of whatever C50 model you choose. Luckily, Matrix offers financing options through BreadPay.  

Customer Reviews

Although there are only two reviews for the ClimbMill C50 on the Matrix Home Fitness website, both customers left a 5-star rating. From a build quality and features standpoint, it’s easy to see why this machine earned high marks. While the price and warranty limitations (it voids if used in a non-climate-controlled environment) may give some potential customers pause, this is still a rock-solid product that should garner more positive feedback as it becomes more of a staple in the home gym community.

Final Verdict of Our Matrix ClimbMill C50 Review

If you’re a cardio enthusiast who loves to stay connected, the ClimbMill C50 can be a great addition to your home gym. While the price tag may preclude some people from putting it on their wish list, the build quality, convenience and safety features, and programming may persuade others to pull the trigger. This isn’t necessarily the best stair climber we’ve gotten our hands (and feet) on, but it’s definitely worth considering if you’ve got the budget for it. 

Full Rating

Matrix ClimbMill C50

The Matrix ClimbMill C50 brings commercial-level durability and smooth stair stepping to your home gym, but the size and price make it better suited for serious users with the space and budget to make it work.

Product Currency: USD

Product Price: 7299

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
3.875

Matrix ClimbMill C50 Review: FAQs

References

1. Ghosal, A. M., & Chandrasekaran, B. (2023). Stair-climbing interventions on cardio-metabolic outcomes in adults: A scoping review. Journal of Taibah University Medical Sciences, 19(1), 136–150. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtumed.2023.10.003

Luckily, you don’t need to drop five figures on a bike to have a good time and reap the benefits. You can, in fact, spend as little as a few hundred dollars and have a good experience. We can help with that—below are the best budget mountain bikes, chosen by real riders, MTB coaches, and bike shop managers. 

Related: Best Exercise Bikes With Virtual Courses

6 Best Budget Mountain Bikes of 2026

• Best Budget Mountain Bike Overall: Marin Bobcat Trail
• Best Ultra-Budget Mountain Bike: Ozark Trail Ridge
• Best Budget Full Suspension Mountain Bike: Specialized Stumpjumper 15 Alloy
• Best Budget Electric Mountain Bike: Aventon Ramblas
• Best Budget Downhill Mountain Bike: Transition Smuggler
• Best Budget XC Mountain Bike: Specialized Rockhopper Sport

Best Budget Mountain Bike Overall: Marin Bobcat Trail

Good for: Those who want to blend fun, function, and durability for a good price

Best Budget Mountain Bike Overall

GGR Score

We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.

4

Marin Bobcat Trail

Affordable trail bike

Beginner-friendly

1x drivetrain

Free shipping options available

Limited lifetime frame warranty

Monthly payment plans available

Check Price

Durable frame

Lightweight aluminum frame built for multi-purpose use

Suspension fork

Front suspension fork smooths out roots and rocks

Reliable drivetrain

Shimano 11-speed shifting with crisp engagement

Tubeless ready rims

Rims compatible with tubeless setup for better traction

Trail beginners

Great budget option for new mountain bikers exploring nearby trails

Budget-conscious

High-quality performance without breaking the bank

Pros

Affordable price with solid specs for trail riding

Modern geometry improves control and comfort

Hydraulic disc brakes on most models

Internal routing keeps cables protected

Cons

Heavier than mid- or high-end bikes

Entry-level suspension fork

Basic wheelset and tires may require future upgrades

Frame material

Aluminum alloy

Wheel size

27.5″ or 29” wheels

Fork travel

120 mm suspension travel

Drivetrain

SunRace 11-51T 11spd

The Marin Bobcat Trail delivers real off-road performance and trail-ready features at a wallet-friendly price. It’s a reliable and approachable choice for new riders or anyone looking to get into mountain biking without overspending.

The Bobcat Trail takes the best overall spot because it’s top-tier, thanks to the under-$1,000 price tag and capable build. Based on my personal experience, it’s the best value bike.

RELATED: Best Exercise Bikes

I’ve been riding the Marin Bobcat Trail since 2022—specifically the Bobcat Trail 3, though the latest model is the Trail 5—and it’s been with me on mountain bike adventures across North America. I picked my Marin up in Miami, where it handled the mix of sugar sand and root-laced scrub forests without issue. Since then, this bike has flown through machine-built trails in swampy Louisiana, rocky backroads in the Southwest, and even some rowdy descents at lift-served bike parks in British Columbia and Anchorage. Not bad for a $999 rig! For all-around trail performance, I give it a solid 4 out of 5.

It’s definitely not optimized for every type of terrain I’ve ridden, but it’s rugged and sufficiently adaptable for just about anything I’ve thrown at it. Downhill parks definitely pushed its limits (and mine), but it survived. Thanks to a lockout on the front suspension fork, the Bobcat even works on paved rides, though it’s noticeably heavy on pavement. For weight, it gets a score of 2.75 out of 5.

What makes this bike shine is its trail-centric frame geometry, which lends itself to incredible versatility. And with 120 millimeters of front travel, it’s tuned for flowing singletrack and climbing alike.

The frame is aluminum alloy; it’s not as light or high-end as carbon, but it is more crash-resistant and budget-friendly. That’s part of what makes the Bobcat such a strong value. For $999, it’s hard to beat the level of performance and fun this bike delivers. On value, I rate it 4.75 out of 5.

RELATED: Understanding the Different Types of Exercise Bikes

Frame material	Aluminum alloy
Weight	Not listed
Rear suspension	No
Dropper seat post	No (future compatible)
Wheel Size	29” or 27.5”
Tire Width	2.25”
Suspension Travel	120 mm
Drivetrain Configuration	1x
Cassette	SunRace 11-51T 11spd

Read More

Best Ultra-Budget Mountain Bike: Ozark Trail Ridge

Good for: Casual riders who want a basic bike and/or plan to budget for upgrades

Best Ultra-Budget Mountain Bike

GGR Score

We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.

3.5

Ozark Trail Ridge

Budget-friendly

Trail-capable

Alloy frame

Free in-store pickup or delivery

Limited 1-year warranty

Available via Walmart installment options

Check Price

Budget frame

Aluminum frame offering strength at the lowest price point

29″ wheels

29” wheel size for entry-level stability

Suspension

No rear suspension to reduce cost

Basic gearing

9‑speed system

Casual riders

Perfect for neighborhood path rides and mild trails

Kids’ introduction

Entry-level MTB for youth or beginner adults

Pros

Incredibly budget-friendly price

Mechanical disc brakes for basic stopping power

1x drivetrain is simple to use and maintain

Lightweight aluminum frame for easy handling

Cons

Basic suspension fork may bottom out on tougher trails

Lower-tier components not built for aggressive riding

No tubeless compatibility

Limited upgrade potential long-term

Frame material

Steel alloy frame

Wheel size

29″ wheels

Gear range

9‑speed drivetrain

Weight

35.4 lbs

The Ozark Trail Ridge Mountain Bike is a solid, no-frills option for riders who want to explore local trails without spending more than $500. It’s a great intro to mountain biking with just enough quality to keep you rolling smoothly—especially if you’re just starting out.

Best Budget Full-Suspension Mountain Bike: Specialized Stumpjumper 15 Alloy

Good for: Riders new and experienced who want to invest in an utra-capable bike at a reasonable price

Best Budget Full-Suspension Mountain Bike

GGR Score

We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.

4.5

Specialized Stumpjumper 15 Alloy

Full suspension

Alloy frame

Versatile trail bike

Free shipping to local retailers

Lifetime frame warranty

Available with monthly payments

Check Price

Full suspension

Front and rear suspension for smoother trail performance

Alloy Frame

Durable aluminum frame

Lockout feature

Adjustable rebound and lockout

29″ wheels

Larger wheels for rollover capability and momentum

Weekend warriors

Riders wanting full bike performance without premium price

Trail enthusiasts

Tough enough for rough trail days and all-day rides

Pros

Full suspension makes tough terrain more manageable

Stable and playful geometry inspires confidence

Dropper post and SRAM drivetrain included

M5 alloy balances strength and ride comfort

Cons

Heavier than some carbon competitors

Mid-tier components may limit pro-level riding

Slightly over budget for casual riders

Limited color options

Travel

145 mm of travel

Wheel size

29″

Suspension type

RockShox front & rear

Drivetrain

Shimano 12-speed

The Specialized Stumpjumper 15 Alloy is an excellent beginner-friendly full-suspension trail bike that combines confidence-inspiring geometry with a balanced build. It’s versatile, forgiving, and built to help new riders progress quickly on the trails.

Best Budget Electric Mountain Bike: Aventon Ramblas

Good for: MTB-ers looking for help with uphill climbs and long rides for under $3,000

Best Budget Electric Mountain Bike

GGR Score

We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.

4.25

Aventon Ramblas

E‑MTB value

750 W motor

20 mph top speed

Free shipping

2-year warranty

Financing available

Check Price

Powerful motor

750 W peak motor for off‑road power

Large battery

Up to 90 miles per charge

Suspension

Front suspension only

Speed-capable

Up to 20 mph in pedal‑assist mode

New e‑MTB users

Riders seeking electric boost without premium price

Long-range riders

Ideal for long distance trail adventures

Pros

Excellent value

Strong battery & motor

Aventon customer service

Cons

54lbs with battery

Limited aftermarket parts

No full suspension

Battery capacity

Up to 90 miles

Motor output

750 W peak

Total travel

130 mm of travel

Top speed

20  mph

High‑value e‑MTB with strong battery and power, though it’s quite a bit heavier than other options.

Best Budget Downhill Mountain Bike: Transition Smuggler Alloy

Good for: Comfortably riding technical downhill routes while keeping the budget in check 

Best Budget Downhill Mountain Bike

GGR Score

We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.

4.5

Transition Smuggler

Downhill geometry

Smooth shifting

Tough frame

Free shipping

Lifetime warranty

Financing available

Check Price

Downhill bike

Geometry and setup built for descents

Steel frame

Strong alloy frame tuned for impact

Coil shock

Works with air and coil shocks

29″ wheels

Ideal wheels for downhill control

Gravity riders

Built for bike parks and aggressive DH terrain

Budget DH seekers

Transition quality without pro‑level price

Pros

Durable build

Worthy downhill handling

Less expensive than carbon DH bikes

Cons

Pricier than other budget options

Slower rolling wheels

Not ideal for casual riding

Travel

140 mm front /130  mm rear

Wheel size

29″

Frame material

Alloy

Weight

Not listed

Ideal for downhill riding, this bike offers full suspension, though it does come with a larger price tag than other budget mountain bikes.

For ripping downhill tracks on a modest budget, the alloy Transition Smuggler is a top contender. “My go-to, all-around bike is the Transition Smuggler,” says Luke Burgess, general manager of the Rider’s Outpost at Madbush Falls mountain bike park. 

The front fork offers 140 millimeters of travel while the rear shock provides 130, which is somewhat short for downhill bikes—but you’ll appreciate that if you ever decide to skip the chairlift and use your cycling muscles. 

“This bike punches well above its weight class with a geometry that is perfectly at home on [downhill] terrain,” Luke says. When everyone else is riding burlier setups with 160 and 170 millimeters of travel, “you get to climb back up for more laps,” he says. A bike that can climb and descend without flaw? Easy 5 out of 5 for versatility. 

At $3,499 for the alloy frame, the Smuggler is the most expensive option on our guide to budget mountain bikes. But we think it’s an excellent deal for a fully capable downhill bike that still accommodates climbs and mixed trails. (For reference, the carbon Smuggler frameset alone costs the same as the entire bike in aluminum alloy.) Plus, its aluminum frame is durable and, according to rider reviews, feels much lighter and more responsive than most would expect from such a frame. 

The Shimano drivetrain features a 1x configuration with 12 speeds, providing smooth shifting with fewer parts to worry about while shaving weight. Additionally, the Smuggler comes with tubeless Maxxis tires with automatic sealant in the case of flats, 2.5 inches wide in the front and 2.4 in the rear. It also comes with a dropper seat post so you can change your riding position based on the conditions. All of the above earns the Smuggler a respectable 4 out of 5 points for value.

Related: Spin Bike vs. Exercise Bike: What’s the Difference?

Frame material	Aluminum alloy
Weight	Not listed (30.5 lbs for Carbon GX model)
Rear suspension	Yes
Dropper seat post	Yes
Wheel Size	29”
Tire Width	2.5” (front); 2.4” (rear)
Suspension Travel	130 mm rear; 140 mm front
Drivetrain Configuration	1x
Cassette	Shimano Deore M6100 (10-51t) 12spd

Read More

Best Budget XC Mountain Bike: Specialized Rockhopper Sport

Good for: People who plan on riding long distances across different types of trails

Best Budget XC Mountain Bike

GGR Score

We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.

4.25

Specialized Rockhopper Sport

Hardtail XC bike

29″ wheels

Aluminum alloy

Shipping or local pickup

Lifetime limited warranty

Financing available

Check Price

XC geometry

Athletic frame geometry ideal for cross‑country riding

Hardtail design

Front suspension only for efficient pedaling

29″ wheels

Enhances speed and rollover

Casette

Shimano CUES CS-LG300-9, 9spd, 11-41T

XC riders

Entry‑level racers and fitness riders

Trail lovers

Lightweight and efficient for mixed terrain rides

Pros

Lightweight alloy frame

29″ wheel size

Quality components

Great for local trails and XC riding

Cons

Only front suspension

Only 9 speeds

Heavier than carbon

Frame material

Alloy

Fork travel

90-100 mm (size specific)

Wheel size

29″

Casette

Shimano CUES CS-LG300-9, 9spd, 11-41T

A high-quality hardtail XC bike at an accessible price—great for speed-focused riders but lacks dual suspension and dropper post.

My husband picked up a Specialized Rockhopper Sport at a bike shop in West Texas and proceeded to ride it for a year and a half along our travels from the Southern U.S. to Alaska and back. He took this budget hardtail out weekly, often more frequently, on desert singletrack and backroads in the Southwest, on mixed trails in the Pacific Northwest (in springtime mud, no less), and on downhill lines in Canada and Alaska.

It earns a score of 4 out of 5 for versatility. We docked one point because even though it can handle downhill parks, it’s not particularly comfortable to ride on fast descents. 

For a $750 bike, it’s an incredibly high performer. While it’s technically a trail bike, it’s never shown any hesitation on steep descents or long, flat rides. My husband’s favorite thing about the Rockhopper? Its weight. At 29.5 pounds, it’s substantially lighter than most bikes in the sub-$800 price range. Whenever I got to take a joyride on the Rockhopper, I’d feel like I could fly in comparison to riding my Marin Bobcat Trail bike, even though his bike was one size too big for me. For weight, it earns 4.5 out of 5 stars. 

Featuring a Shimano CUES drivetrain with a 1x configuration, I love this bike’s ease of shifting thanks to the single chainring, but I do find its nine speeds to be a bit lacking. A 12-speed cassette is certainly preferable, but at the under-$800 price point, I think the nine-speed is perfectly fair. Taking that into account with all its other features, I give the Rockhopper Sport a score of 4.75 out of 5 for value—it’s one of the best deals out there. 

“I honestly didn’t expect much out of this bike, given that it was so inexpensive and I randomly chose it at a bike shop (because of its price),” my husband says. “But it has been a wildly fun ride and I’m super impressed by how well it has handled on different trails that it really wasn’t built for.” 

If you’ve got a little more budget and want even more oomph, check out the rest of the Rockhopper line, which includes slightly higher-end models with different components (for instance, the Sport features a Suntour fork while the Expert features a RockShox fork). “I’m all in on Specialized after riding the Rockhopper for over a year,” my husband says. 

Related: The Best Air Bikes for Your Home Gym

Frame material	Aluminum alloy
Weight	29 lbs 8 oz
Rear suspension	No
Dropper seat post	No
Wheel Size	29”
Tire Width	2.35”
Suspension Travel	90–100 mm (size-specific)
Drivetrain Configuration	1x
Cassette	Shimano CUES CS-LG300-9, 9spd, 11-41T

Read More

Other Budget Mountain Bikes We Researched

We researched dozens of other mountain bikes, with nearly 30 ending up on our list of recommendations. These few were strong contenders for this guide.

• Trek Marlin: The Trek Marlin was my first mountain bike and one I still highly recommend, as does Adelia Valadez, rental shop manager at Massanutten Resort. “It handles surprisingly well on singletrack and comes with a solid drivetrain that works great for climbing and casual trail riding,” she says. It was a competitor for the best overall spot in this guide, but ultimately, I’ve preferred my Bobcat Trail (which also costs a few hundred less).
• Cannondale Trail 2: This bike comes highly recommended by Jason Cowie, bike buyer for Sun & Ski Sports, who calls it “a lightweight, versatile hardtail mountain bike built for both trail adventures and everyday rides.”
• Santa Cruz Hightower: Cassie Abel, founder and CEO of Wild Rye women’s technical apparel, says the Hightower is “the perfect blend of playful and capable,” but it’s on the pricey side for budget-minded bikers. 
• Specialized Turbo Levo 4: This e-bike is undoubtedly one of the best, and comes in a range of prices to suit different budgets. However, it still costs more than the $4,000 cap we placed for this budget-friendly guide.
• Rocky Mountain Element Carbon 30: Our top overall pick in our guide to the best mountain bikes, the C30 is an all-around excellent pick, but slightly above our budget cap at about $4,500.

How We Picked and Tested the Best Budget Mountain Bikes

Hours of riding, research, and consulting with mountain bike experts and enthusiasts went into this guide. Here are a few of the top factors that went into our search for the best budget mountain bikes.

Price

For this particular guide we kept all of our picks to under $4,000, with most under $2,000.

Drivetrain

We looked for 1x drivetrain configurations with at least eight speeds.

Brakes 

All of our recommendations have hydraulic brakes except our ultra-budget (under $400) pick, which has mechanical brakes. 

Frame Material 

All of our top budget mountain bike choices have alloy frames, though several have the option to choose a carbon frame if you have more cash available. 

Rear/front Suspension 

We looked for components from respected and tested brands like RockShox, X-Fusion, and Fox. 

Suspension Travel 

We prioritized versatile bikes with suspension travel of 120 to 150 millimeters, because too little or too much travel reduces the use cases (or, at least, the cases in which it will perform well) for a given bike. 

Wheels and Tires 

Our recommendations primarily include bikes with 29-inch wheels, but some have options to choose 27.5-inch wheels if you desire more speed and shiftier handling. We included models with tubeless-ready tires where available, though most budget MTBs do not have tubeless tires. We looked for tire widths of 2.2–2.4 inches.

Upgrade Compatibility 

Seeing as this is a budget-oriented guide, we chose bikes that have upgrade compatibility, so riders can spend more when it’s the right time. 

Different Types of Mountain Bikes

Below, learn about different mountain bike styles and how they affect your ride.

• Full-suspension: Has both a front and rear suspension; absorbs more shock; ideal for downhill and highly technical routes; can feel cumbersome and slower on climbs and flat, smooth routes
• Hardtail: Only has a front fork suspension; absorbs less shock; less expensive than full-suspension; provides better handling and climbing performance
• Electric: Features a battery system to assist with uphill pedaling; can be full-suspension or hardtail
• Cross-country (XC): Built for long distances and designed with uphill performance and acceleration in mind; lightweight; often built without a rear suspension 
• Trail: Widely considered the most versatile MTB category; designed with versatility in mind, usually featuring medium suspension travel and a rear suspension
• Trail XC: Blended features from XC and trail for even greater versatility
• Downhill: Built for riding downhill routes with various features, including jumps, drops, and roll-over obstacles (like rock gardens); robust rear suspension; often heavier and struggle to accelerate and climb uphill
• Enduro: Also built to handle intense downhill rides, but some downhill compromises are made to assist with climbing performance; different frame geometry than downhill to increase versatility
• All-mountain: An emerging category similar to trail bikes, generally with greater suspension travel and a more robust rear suspension to better accommodate downhill riding
• Down-country: A blend between cross-country and downhill features; not the ideal bike for either type of riding but a great way to prioritize performance and comfort in both riding scenarios

Buying Guide: What to Look for in Budget Mountain Bikes

As you shop for your new trusty steed, keep these factors in mind. 

Your Intended Use

The first step is knowing what you will use the bike for. Do you want to go on multi-day bikepacking expeditions, bomb downhills with berms and drops, or have something versatile you can also use as a road bike for commuting and leisure? Understanding the bike’s primary use is how you will find the best MTB for you.

Frame Material

For a budget-friendly bike that still performs and handles well, you’re looking at aluminum alloy frame construction. Sometimes referred to as just “alloy,” this material offers the best blend of durability, weight, responsiveness, and price. You may be able to save even more with a steel frame, but at the expense of weight. 

Frame Geometry 

Frame geometry is very important when considering the type of riding you want to do. According to Adelia Valadez, rental shop manager at Massanutten Resort, “Geometry affects how the bike handles and how stable it feels, which really shapes the whole ride experience.” There’s a lot to consider when it comes to geometry—and a ton of numbers and ratios—but in general, remember that “slack” geometry lends itself to stability at high speeds, while “steep” geometry lends itself to nimbleness and responsiveness.

Drivetrain

Look for at least eight speeds and a 1x drivetrain configuration; 2x configurations may offer more speeds on budget models, but that comes at the expense of weight and more complexity in shifting (a.k.a. one more thing  to think about while you’re riding), plus additional components to maintain. 

Brakes

Always look for hydraulic disc brakes, says Valadez, noting that “they are worth it over mechanical brakes.” All of our recommendations, except the Ozark Trail Ridge (our under-$500 pick), have hydraulic brakes.

Suspension and Suspension Travel 

First, decide whether you want a full-suspension bike or a hardtail. From there, decide how much suspension travel you want based on the type of riding you want to do. In general, less travel is ideal for trail and cross-country riding, while more is better for downhill and enduro riding. 

Seat Post 

You may want to consider a dropper-compatible seatpost that you can upgrade later on. If you start riding more technical trails, especially downhill lines, you’ll come to appreciate the versatility and comfort that a dropper post offers. 

Wheels and Tires

Look for 29-inch wheels if long-distance riding and/or roll-over capability are priorities for you. Look for 27.5-inch wheels if acceleration and uphill performance are more important. Mixed-wheel setups are also available, though not typically at budget-friendly price points. For tires, a diameter of 2.2 to 2.5 inches is standard; tubeless tires are lighter and reduce the risk of flats, but most budget-friendly models come with inner tubes because they are less expensive. If you’d like to upgrade in the future, look for tubeless-ready rims.

Tips for Buying a Mountain Bike Online

First things first: Understand the type of riding you plan to do with the bike. With that in mind, shop for features that match your intended riding style. Know your nonnegotiables and where you’re willing to compromise to stay within your budget. 

Additionally, know your size. Helpful measurements to have include your height and inseam length. In most cases, that’s enough to use an online size chart to find the correct bike size and seat height. Be sure to use the size chart from the brand you buy from; sizing can vary across brands. 

If buying used, check the bike out in person. Ideally, you’ll get to test ride it or get a mechanic to inspect it—or both. Never buy a used mountain bike sight unseen. For new bikes, look for a warranty that matches the investment: At least one year on parts and the frame is desirable. Multiple years on the frame is ideal, but you may not find such a warranty for budget bikes. 

FAQs About the Best Budget Mountain Bikes

References

1. Arriel, R. A., Souza, H. L. R., Sasaki, J. E., & Marocolo, M. (2022). Current Perspectives of Cross-Country Mountain Biking: Physiological and Mechanical Aspects, Evolution of Bikes, Accidents and Injuries. International journal of environmental research and public health, 19(19), 12552. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191912552

As a certified personal trainer (CPT) and longtime athlete, I’m always willing to keep an open mind about less-established brands and new products. After all, there’s always room for innovation and improvement in this evolving industry. 

In this YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical review, I’ll cover everything from the dimensions and ergonomics to the built-in programming and tech capabilities so you can emerge from the depths with all the knowledge you need to decide if this is the right addition to your home gym.   

Stride It Out: Behind the Scenes of Our In-Depth Elliptical Testing Process

The Garage Gym Reviews squad includes CPTs, certified nutrition coaches, CrossFit competitors, and an Olympian weightlifter. While not all of us are fans of doing cardio exercises at home, we understand the importance of taking care of your heart health and making wise investments. Whether we’re testing the best treadmills or the top rowing machines,, we take every step, stride, or stroke seriously so you can trust our gym equipment reviews are as thorough as possible.     

When evaluating ellipticals, we use our fitness equipment testing methodology to grade critical factors using a 1-5 scoring system. Out of the 12 categories we assess, here are the most important:

• Footprint and portability: How much space does the elliptical take up? Can you easily move it, or is it a fickle beast that stays firmly in place once it’s set up?
• Durability: Is there any wobbling or stability issues when in use? How heavy is the flywheel? Does the max user weight accommodate a majority of home gym owners? 
• Adjustability and ergonomics: Can you adjust the pedals? Does the stride length prevent taller users from using the machine comfortably?  
• Dynamic programming: Does the machine have built-in programs? Can you choose workouts based on interval training, target heart, rate, or calories burned? 
• Conveniencies: We appreciate features like water bottle holders, a media shelf for holding your phone or tablet, and cooling fans. 
• Value: Do the features and build quality justify the price? Is there a required monthly subscription cost to utilize the elliptical to its full potential? 

For this YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical review, I’ll break down the specs, pricing, and other relevant information while interweaving GGR Everything Lead Reviewer Lindsay Scheele’s first-hand experience so you get a nose-to-tail view of this impressive machine. 

RELATED: Best Elliptical Workout

Best Durable Elliptical

GGR Score

We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.

3.8

Yosuda Dolphin Elliptical

Quiet magnetic drive

Full-body trainer

Compact Footprint

1-year limited warranty

32 resistance levels

Free standard U.S. shipping

Up to $500 off See Details

Check Price

Watch Video Review

Read Full Review

Resistance Levels

Offers 32 adjustable levels of electromagnetic resistance for customizable workouts.

Full-Body Workout

Dual-action handlebars and foot pedals target both upper and lower body.

Compact Design

Small footprint makes it ideal for tight home gym spaces or apartments.

LCD Monitor

Tracks time, speed, distance, calories, and pulse to help monitor your progress.

Apartment Dwellers

Quiet operation and compact build make it ideal for shared spaces.

Busy Professionals

Compact design fits into small home offices or corners with ease.

Low-Impact Seekers

Great choice for those who want cardio with minimal joint stress.

Pros

Quiet and smooth ride thanks to electromagnetic resistance

Easy-to-read LCD display for basic workout stats

Compact enough for small homes or apartments

Targets both upper and lower body

Cons

Limited resistance levels may not challenge advanced users

No built-in programming or interactive workouts

Basic LCD display lacks advanced metrics or Bluetooth

Dimensions

46.6” L x 24.4” W x 60.7” H

Display

LCD Display

Weight Capacity

330 lbs

Resistance Levels

10 levels of electromagnetic resistance

The Yosuda Dolphin elliptical is a solid pick for folks looking for a low-impact cardio option that fits in tight spaces. It’s quiet, compact, and beginner-friendly—but more experienced athletes might want something with heavier resistance and interactive features.

A Quick Look at the YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical

Created in April 2018, the YOSUDA brand promotes the concept of “family fitness and healthy life” by designing and producing different cardio machines. The founder, Eric Zeng, started the company as a way to help his wife overcome persistent health problems, eventually developing various exercise bikes, rowers, and ellipticals aimed at the home gym community. 

Currently, YOSUDA offers three elliptical options, including the E5 Under-Desk Elliptical Machine and the E9 Cardio Climber Stepping Elliptical Machine. Meanwhile, the Dolphin Elliptical is a gym-grade machine that features a 20-pound flywheel, 32 levels of electromagnetic resistance, a heavy-duty steel frame, 12 built-in programs, and compatibility with several apps. 

RELATED: YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike Review

Before You Buy 

• The YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical has a list price of $1,699.99, making it about twice as expensive as the Horizon EX-59 (one of GGR’s favorite ellipticals). However, it’s priced similarly to the NordicTrack AirGlide 14i, which earned our nomination for the best elliptical with incline.     
• The Dolphin Elliptical has 12 progressive built-in programs spread across three different modes: beginner, advance, and sporty. This lets you tailor a long-term training plan according to your fitness level and goals.  
• YOSUDA offers a 30-day return policy and a 30-day price match guarantee. However, all returns are subject to a 10% restocking fee. 
• There may be discount codes or limited-time offers that allow you to score significant savings on this elliptical. For example, we’ve seen it priced as low as $1,105 during a promotional sale period. 

RELATED: Horizon Fitness EX-59 Elliptical Review

YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical Video Review

Is the YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical Worth It?

Although my colleague Lindsay Scheele wouldn’t put this machine at the top of her best elliptical list, she still believes it’s a rock-solid option for home gym owners who can fit it in their budget. At around $1,700, the YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical certainly isn’t cheap, and you can definitely find other options for far less. (In fact, check out our best ellipticals under $1,000 roundup if you’re curious).  

Ultimately, though, from a build quality and performance standpoint, this machine delivers. You get a well-constructed, stable elliptical with built-in programs, 32 levels of electromagnetic resistance, and 20 incline levels. Plus, we like that it’s compatible with several apps. It may not have everything you’d like for the price (more on that later), but we give it our stamp of approval. 

YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical Specs

Using the YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical 

GGR Everything Lead Reviewer and cardio machine connoisseur Lindsay Scheele put the YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical through our rigorous testing process. While she had a few notable callouts, she enjoyed her training experience and appreciated many of the user-friendly features. Let’s glide into the details and see where the Dolphin Elliptical delivered and where it fell short. 

Footprint and Portability

Weighing 202 pounds and featuring a footprint of 74 inches long by 38 inches wide by  68 inches high, the YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical is both longer and wider than one of our favorites, the NordicTrack AirGlide 14i. However, it proved to be fairly portable thanks to its design. 

“It didn’t feel like a 202-pound deadlift. Between the way the weight is distributed, the handlebar on the back and the wheels on the front, you’re essentially only lifting like half of that weight,” Lindsay explains.

Is this the most compact elliptical? Not necessarily. But we still rate it a 4 out of 5 for footprint and portability, as most users shouldn’t have trouble moving it. 

Delivery and Setup

Some machines require tremendous manpower and brainpower to put together. Luckily, the YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical doesn’t fall into that category. 

“The assembly was fairly easy. It only took our guy about an hour,” Lindsay says, rating the delivery and setup a 5 out of 5. 

YOSUDA deserves credit for providing clear assembly instructions — something we don’t always see with other manufacturers. 

“There were no sort of tricks involved. It came together really well, so I do think one person can easily assemble this themselves,” Lindsay says. 

Customizations and Dynamic Programming

Although you don’t get the fully immersive iFIT experience like you do with a NordicTrack machine, the YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical has 12 progressive built-in programs. Essentially, you have three modes with four levels. 

• Beginner: Resistance slowly increases to stabilize heart rate and breathing 
• Advance: Resistance quickly increases to improve workout efficiency 
• Sporty: Intermittent resistance, fast fat-burning

RELATED: Elliptical HIIT Workout

Lindsay liked that you can set your target heart rate using the built-in programming. For example, if you don’t want your heart rate to go above 125, you can program that and receive an alert when your heart rate is above that level. 

“With the advanced levels, it’s going to go ahead and increase that resistance and intensity,” Lindsay explains. “The sporty program is more of a fat-burning function so it’s going to do a lot of interval-style training.” 

Overall, we rate the programming a 4 out of 5. 

Adjustability and Ergonomics

The YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical is a comfortable, well-designed machine featuring a sturdy steel frame and four wide rails to ensure a stable training experience. In addition, it has a 20-pound flywheel. 

“This is actually a great flywheel weight, and I would say most ellipticals around this price point do come with that 20-pound flywheel,” Lindsay explains.

Featuring large foot pads with a comfortable, grippy cushion, you can look forward to hassle-free workouts on the Dolphin Elliptical. 

“I didn’t feel like I was slipping when I was using them even at the incline. It moves super smooth and was also pretty quiet while I went ahead and used the machine or even raised the incline,” Lindsay says, rating the adjustability and ergonomics a 5 out of 5. 

Another feature worth highlighting is the 20-inch stride length. We like to see 18 to 20 inches when evaluating ellipticals, so this is right on the money. 

“If you’re taller than 5’7”, this is going to be a great stride length for you,” Lindsay says. 

Tech Capabilities and Conveniences

Equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, the YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical connects to heart rate monitors and your phone. However, if you had plans to ditch your headphones for the built-in speakers, think again. 

“These speakers are so bad,” Lindsay says. “The sound was crunchy and it wasn’t very loud, and there was no way to control the volume on the actual machine.” 

Meanwhile, the “cooling” fan left Lindsay more hot and bothered than refreshed and relaxed. 

“The first two levels I didn’t even notice it was blowing air to me unless I held my hand exactly where the fan was. I would drag in a big fan from Walmart or Costco if you’re hot in your home gym because the fan provided absolutely nothing,” Lindsay explains. 

RELATED: Best Fans for Garage Gyms

It’s not all bad, though. We appreciate that the YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical is compatible with several fitness apps, including Feier, iConsole+, and Kinomap. The console also presents real-time metrics like time, speed, distance, calories, watt, BAI, and heart rate. However, the body fat detection system was highly inaccurate for Lindsay, so we don’t recommend relying on it. Overall, we rate the tech capabilities a 3.5 out of 5 and the conveniences a disappointing 2 out of 5.  

YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical vs NordicTrack AirGlide 14i

NordicTrack AirGlide 14i

GGR Score

We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.

4.5

NordicTrack AirGlide 14i Elliptical

Inclines and declines

iFIT compatibility

OneTouch controls

10-year frame warranty

26 digital resistance levels

Up to $1,300 off smart machines and $2,200 off bundles See Details

Check Price

Read Full Review

Resistance Levels

The AirGlide 14i boasts 26 levels of Silent Magnetic Resistance for quiet, smooth workouts

Metrics Tracked

Calories burned, heart rate, distance, pace, speed, resistance level, incline

Product Weight

The NordicTrack AirGlide 14i has a listed in-box product weight of 244 pounds

Incline Range

The AirGlide 14i can support incline adjustments between -5 and 15%

Varied Training Fans

The AirGlide 14i is one of the few ellipticals offering decline capabilities for even more available setups

Class Enthusiasts

Like other NordicTrack equipment, the AirGlide 14i gives you access to the iFIT library of trainer-led workouts

Cross-Trainers

The iFIT platform features over 16,000 on-demand workouts across a variety of workout disciplines

Pros

Automatic trainer control with iFIT

30-day iFIT trial included

Large, cushioned pedals

Quiet drive system

Cons

Expensive price tag

iFIT trial requires your credit card

iFIT requires monthly membership fees

Dimensions

69″ L x 25″ W x 71″ H

Display

14” smart HD touchscreen

Weight Capacity

300 lbs

Programming

Over 16,000 on-demand programs via iFIT

The NordicTrack AirGlide 14i Elliptical offers both incline and decline training, an adjustable stride length, and a 14-inch touchscreen display for iFIT interactive programming. You’ll enjoy the AirGlide if you want to break a sweat with expert instruction and motivation from iFIT trainers and coaches.

What our tester says:

“I also love the AutoAdjust features brought on via the programming. Rather than adjusting settings yourself, the machine automatically does it for you in accordance with your on-screen instructor.”

If you’re looking for an apples-to-apples comparison, this one is fairly close. Priced almost exactly the same, the YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical and the NordicTrack AirGlide 14i will cost you around $1,700. While the former has a slightly higher weight capacity (330 pounds versus. 300 pounds) and longer stride length (20 inches vs. 17.8 to 18.5 inches), the latter boasts a better display and superior warranty. 

However, you’ll have to pay a subscription cost to utilize NordicTrack’s iFIT programming, which falls around $40 per month. That’s an important factor to consider, especially if you’re operating on a tight budget.

For more details, check out our full NordicTrack AirGlide 14i review.   

Customer Experience 

YOSUDA provides a 3-year frame warranty on this elliptical. While that’s solid, it’s still a little shorter than we’d like to see. 

“That’s pretty decent, although there are some ellipticals that reach more of that 5- to 10-year mark,” Lindsay says.

The company has a 30-day return policy— with some important caveats. First, all items must be returned in their original packaging. In most cases, customers are also responsible for paying for return shipping. Plus, YOSUDA charges a 10% restocking fee. 

So, if you have any reservations about your purchase, make sure to save the original packaging. Otherwise, YOSUDA will not issue a refund if the item is returned in non-original packaging. 

Ordering the YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical

You can order the YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical directly through the company website. You have several payment options, including PayPal or a credit or debit card. In addition, YOSUDA offers several financing routes via Klarna or After Pay, allowing you to split your purchase into interest-free payments. 

According to Lindsay, it takes five to seven business days for your elliptical to be shipped, and you should receive it within two weeks of purchase. 

Customer Reviews

The YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical has earned a 5-star rating based on one review on the company’s official website. Take a look at the customer’s feedback so you can get a complete picture of what to expect with this cardio machine, while also realizing this is just one person’s opinion. We hope to see more customer reviews in the future. 

Final Verdict of Our YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical Review

The YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical machine is sturdy, stable, and comes with a solid set of features. However, there are some drawbacks to consider (the conveniences and tech capabilities are somewhat lacking), and the price tag certainly isn’t something to scoff at. That said, this is a well-built machine that should hold up well as you work toward improving your cardiovascular fitness and overall health. 

Full Rating

YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical

The Yosuda Dolphin elliptical is a solid pick for folks looking for a low-impact cardio option that fits in tight spaces. It’s quiet, compact, and beginner-friendly—but more experienced athletes might want something with heavier resistance and interactive features.

Product Brand: YOSUDA

Product Currency: USD

Product Price: 1699.99

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
3.8

YOSUDA Dolphin Elliptical Review: FAQs

References

1. Topp, R., Etnoyer-Slaski, J., & Greenstein, J. (2023). Heart Rate Response and Flexibility Following Single Bout of Training Using a Seated Elliptical Trainer Among Younger and Older Adults. Clinical nursing research, 32(4), 723–732. https://doi.org/10.1177/10547738221141390

If you live in a climate with challenging weather conditions and can’t bike outdoors, an exercise bike is a great alternative. Research shows that regular indoor cycling may improve aerobic capacity, blood pressure, lipid profile, and body composition¹.

In this Yosuda YB001R bike review, we’ll be taking a closer look at one of the better options from Yosuda, a company known for making affordable cardio equipment for home gym owners. We’ve thoroughly tested this bike, and while I don’t want to spoil this review, I can say that we were very impressed. 

I’ll share the pros, cons, exactly what our tester thought, and help you decide if this affordable, durable exercise bike is worth adding to your home gym. 

Tested by a Stationary Bike Expert

The GGR review team has plenty of experience testing the best cardio equipment, and we’ve tested dozens of exercise bikes. Our team includes certified personal trainers, certified nutrition coaches, gym owners, fitness enthusiasts, and even an Olympian, so we understand how to use and test fitness equipment. 

For this review, our tester was Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC, the lead reviewer for our GGR Everything YouTube channel. Lindsay has used and tested most of the fitness bikes on the market, and knows what the most important features are. 

After testing this bike extensively for an in-depth video review, she rated the bike using our testing methodology, which assigns a score to the most important categories, like:

• Footprint and portability
• Durability and construction
• Ergonomics
• Technology capabilities
• Value

YOSUDA YB001R Magnetic Exercise Bike

GGR Score

We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.

3.94

Yosuda YB100R Magnetic Exercise Bike

Magnetic resistance

Adjustable fit

Budget-friendly

Free U.S. delivery

3-year frame, 1-year parts

4-way seat, 2-way handlebars

Up to 35% off select cardio equipment See Details

Check Price

Read Full Review

Heavy Flywheel

35 lb flywheel for smooth, stable pedaling

Magnetic Resistance

Quiet, low-maintenance resistance system

LCD Monitor

Tracks time, speed, distance, calories, odometer

Device Holder

Integrated stand for tablets or phones

Budget-Conscious Use

Affordable option without sacrificing quality

Space-Saving Needs

Compact design suitable for small home gyms

Quiet Workout Seeker

Ideal for shared spaces due to silent operation

Adjustability Seeker

Customizable seat and handlebars for optimal fit

Pros

Smooth and quiet magnetic resistance

Sturdy steel frame supports up to 330 lbs

Adjustable seat and handlebars for personalized comfort

Integrated device holder for entertainment

Cons

Lacks built-in workout programs

No Bluetooth or app connectivity

Basic LCD monitor without advanced metrics

Assembly may require time and effort

Dimensions

45.3″ L x 21.9″ W x 49.2″ H

Weight Capacity

Supports users up to 330 lbs

Flywheel Weight

35 lbs for a realistic cycling feel

Inseam Range

Adjustable for inseams between 25″ and 35″

The YOSUDA YB001R Magnetic Exercise Bike offers a solid, quiet ride with customizable features, making it a great choice for those seeking an affordable, space-saving indoor cycling solution. While it lacks advanced tech features, its sturdy build and smooth operation provide excellent value for home fitness enthusiasts.

A Quick Look at the Yosuda YB001R Bike

Yosuda specializes in budget-friendly home exercise equipment, offering spin bikes, the Yosuda Pro recumbent bike, ellipticals, rowing machines, and accessories. The Yosuda YB001R Magnetic Exercise Bike is a budget-friendly option that’s surprisingly high-quality, especially for the price. 

The YB001R uses magnetic resistance, which results in smooth, quiet resistance, unlike brake pads, which are often a bit noisier. In addition to the smooth ride, magnetic resistance bikes typically require less maintenance, and you don’t have to worry about friction between the flywheel and any brakes. 

While the bike has some plastic parts, most of the structural components are made of durable steel, and the seat is very comfortable. The built-in screen is very minimal, and there are no programs or preset workouts to follow, but if you’re looking for a comfortable, durable bike without all the bells and whistles, this is a great choice.  

Before You Buy

• The YB001R is a comfortable and durable bike, but taller individuals may have a hard time using it.
• While there’s no built-in programming and the screen is very basic, there’s a device holder for your phone or tablet. 
• The bike has plastic components, but most of the frame is steel, and it feels very durable.

Yosuda YB001R Bike Review Video Review

Is the Yosuda YB001R Bike Worth It?

This bike is very affordable and built to last, but it’s not a must-have for everyone. Here’s who should and shouldn’t consider buying this Yosuda indoor cycling bike.

Yosuda YB001R Bike Specs

Experience Using the Yosuda YB001R Bike

For this review, Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC, tried this bike for a variety of workouts, primarily using it for longer, zone-2 cardio rides. Overall, she was very impressed with the quality, particularly the smooth resistance. 

With a magnetic flywheel, the resistance is typically quieter and smoother than friction-based resistance, and Lindsay found this to be true with the YB001R. She said, “When I rode on this bike, the first thing I noticed was just how smooth and durable it is, and how quiet it is.”

The screen is very basic and doesn’t include any sort of built-in programming. However, the bike has a device holder, so you’re able to use your phone or tablet, but you’ll have to flip the main screen out of the way to do so. This means that if you’re watching Netflix on your phone, you’ll have a hard time seeing your current workout stats. 

RELATED: Best Exercise Bike with a Screen

However, if you don’t need built-in programming and simply want a comfortable, durable, quiet ride to knock out your longer cardio sessions, this is a great choice. Lindsay found this bike to be extremely comfortable, and even commented that if she had this at home, she’d wheel it outside on nice days to get her cardio done on the porch. 

Footprint and Portability

With a weight of only 68 pounds, this bike is very light and easy to move, earning 5 out of 5 stars for footprint and portability. The front has built-in transport wheels, so it’s easy to tilt and roll the bike around.

Lindsay said, “The bike doesn’t have any handlebars on the back, but I don’t think you need them. You can grab the back of the bike and move it very easily.” 

If you need a lightweight bike that’s easy to move around your house between uses, this is an excellent option. It’s not quite as small as something like a mini-bike, but it’s still enough to fit in most rooms, and light enough to put away after you’re done with it.

Durability and Construction

When it comes to the durability and construction of the YB001R, we were very impressed and gave it 4 out of 5 stars. It’s not perfect, but for the price, you’re going to have a hard time finding something with better construction. 

While there are some plastic components, the frame is made of durable steel, and none of the load-bearing components are plastic. It also has a 330-pound weight capacity, which meets the industry standards for an exercise bike. 

Given that the bike only weighs 68 pounds, this is very impressive, and Lindsay is confident that this bike will last for a long time with proper care.

The bike uses a 35-pound flywheel, which Lindsay pointed out is very impressive for a budget-friendly bike, as these lower-cost options often use lighter flywheels, resulting in less resistance. 

We also like that the bike uses caged pedals. While some cyclists may prefer clip-in pedals, casual users who may not want to buy a separate pair of shoes just for cycling should enjoy the flexibility provided by these pedals. 

Ergonomics

This bike does a mostly great job with the ergonomics, and earns 4 out of 5 for this category. 

We’ll start with the padded seat, which is one of the most important aspects to consider when choosing a bike. While many indoor bikes can be a little painful to sit on for extended periods of time, this wasn’t the case with the YB001R. 

Lindsay said, “This is the most comfortable bike seat I’ve ever used. I did two 45-minute zone 2 sessions, and at no point was my butt screaming at me to get off the bike.”

Seat comfort won’t be an issue, but sizing might be for taller users. The adjustable seat can be moved up or down, or front to back, but it may still feel a little cramped. The adjustable handlebar can also be moved up and down, so this has the same adjustments you’d expect to see on a typical spin bike. 

However, Lindsay said that even though the bike claims it can fit inseams ranging from 25-35 inches, she felt it was a little small for her 5’4” frame, saying, “Even when I had the seat scooted all the way back, I wished there was room to move it back even further.”

The seat height is fine, but it can feel a little close to the handlebars.

That said, many of the customer reviews are from users who are around six feet tall, and they don’t report any issues, but this is worth calling out for any taller individuals who may prefer a larger bike. The adjustability seems like it should fit most users, but if you’re tall or have particularly long legs, this may not be a great fit.

It’s also worth noting that Yosuda uses a knob for resistance adjustment. Rather than clicking up and down between preset resistance levels, you can turn the knob to dial in the resistance to your needs. The adjustable resistance is a great feature, allowing you to quickly increase the challenge on the fly for an intense workout.

RELATED: How to Choose an Exercise Bike

Technology Benefits and Conveniences

For technology benefits, this bike is pretty minimal, but that may be exactly what some are looking for. We give this 3 out of 5 for technology benefits and conveniences. 

“The screen is kind of lackluster,” says Lindsay. “You can’t expect some intense touchscreen with fancy programming at this price point, and this is pretty basic.”

There’s also no programming or advanced stat tracking with this bike, only a very basic LCD display that displays your metrics in real-time, including time, speed, distance, odometer, and calories. There’s no Bluetooth integration or heart rate monitor, but it does have a device holder and bottle holder to help you stay hydrated.

However, this minimalist design means the screen doesn’t require much power and is battery-operated. You can use the bike anywhere, without having to worry about finding the closest outlet. This isn’t common with indoor stationary cycling bikes, and it’s a great feature for those who value portability. 

If streaming options are important to you, you may want to consider one of the best exercise bikes with virtual courses instead.

For those who prefer streaming classes but don’t want to spend more on a high-end bike, the YB001R includes a built-in device holder for your phone or iPad. However, Lindsay found that to hold your device properly, you have to rotate the built-in screen out of the way, which means you can’t really see it. 

This isn’t a huge deal for those who are mainly doing longer bike rides at the same intensity level, but if you’re doing interval training and need to see the screen, you probably won’t be able to have your phone displayed at the same time.

Yosuda YB001R Bike vs Sunny Health and Fitness Indoor Cycle Bike SF-B1002

Best Budget Exercise Bike

GGR Score

We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.

3.3

Sunny Health and Fitness Indoor Cycle Bike SF-B1002

Magnetic Resistance

No Monitor

Affordable

1-year frame warranty

Adjustable Seat and Handlebars

30-day return policy

Check Price

Portability

Lightweight with built-in transport wheels

Resistance

Magnetic resistance

Value

Our tester rated this 4 out of 5 for value

Spin Enthusiasts

This bike is built like a studio bike, with adjustable seat and handlebars to customize your fit

Home Gym Owners

It’s not the most compact bike, but it’ll fit well in most home gyms

Outdoor Cyclists

Our tester noted that this feels like a road bicycle

Pros of the Sunny Health and Fitness Synergy Magnetic Bike

Priced under $400

49-pound flywheel provides a smooth ride

Hundreds of micro levels of resistance adjusted manually

Four-way adjustable seat and two-way adjustable multi-grip handlebars

Conveniences like water bottle holder and transportation wheels

Cons of the Sunny Health and Fitness Synergy Magnetic Bike

Leather pad resistance will eventually require maintenance

No monitor or display at all

No tech compatibility

No preset workouts

Footprint

22″D x 49″W x 50.5″H

Max User Weight

275 lbs

Monitor

None

Adjustability

Adjustable seat and handlebars

This is a a budget-friendly exercise bike that provides a good amount of bang for not too much buck.

While the YB001R is an excellent bike for those on a budget, it’s not the only option. Let’s compare it to the Sunny Health and Fitness Indoor Cycle Bike SF-B1002, our pick for the best budget bike in our guide to the best exercise bikes for home workouts.

Both bikes are certainly more affordable than most options on the market, and they’re quite different when you look at the details. While the Yosuda bike is light, portable, and uses magnetic resistance, the Sunny Health and Fitness bike is slightly larger and heavier, and uses friction resistance. 

Even though a magnetic resistance system is typically smoother and quieter, some prefer friction resistance, as it can feel more like riding an actual bicycle outside. 

Resistance aside, the Yosuda is lighter, making it easier to move around, and has a higher user weight capacity.

Overall, we recommend the Yosuda YB001R for most users, though if you’re not a fan of magnetic resistance, the Sunny Health and Fitness SF-B1002 is a great choice. 

To read more, check out our Sunny Health and Fitness Exercise Bike reviews.

Customer Experience 

If you need any support or assistance, the customer experience from Yosuda earns 3 out of 5 stars. 

Returns are allowed within 30 days, but you’ll need to pay for your own shipping, and the product must be unopened and unused. This means if you assemble the bike and try it out, you won’t be able to return the bike. 

However, you can contact Yosuda via phone, email, or chat, so if you need any support, the company is pretty easy to reach, which we like to see. 

Ordering and Assembling the Yosuda YB001R Bike

The assembly process was very simple, earning 4 out of 5 stars. 

Lindsay said it took one person about 20 minutes to fully assemble this bike, so you shouldn’t have much trouble putting it together, even if you don’t have a helper. Shipping is free to the contiguous United States, and orders can be financed with Klarna or Afterpay. 

Customer Reviews

At the time of writing, the Yosuda YB001R has 856 reviews with an average rating of 4.9 stars on the Yosuda website. While Yosuda sells other bikes on Amazon, the YB001R isn’t available, so this is the only place we could find reviews. 

Overall, customers are very happy, which is why the bike scores so highly. They like the easy assembly and comfortable seat, though one reviewer mentioned he had a hard time carrying the box up the stairs, which is something to keep in mind if you don’t have someone to help you transport the box. 

Final Verdict of Our Yosuda YB001R Bike Review

If you’re looking to add indoor cycling to your exercise routine, the Yosuda YB001R is one of the best budget-friendly options on the market. It’s durable, comfortable, and features smooth, quiet magnetic resistance. 

There are no streaming classes or programs provided, and taller users may have a hard time with this bike. However, if you just need a durable, simple bike that’s comfortable to use and should last for years, this is a great choice, especially if you’re not ready to spend thousands of dollars on home gym equipment. 

• The Yosuda YB001R claims that it supports users up to 6’2”, but our tester was wary of these claims, noting it felt a little small. 
• The built-in screen is very basic, but there’s a device holder if you want to use a phone or tablet for streaming classes. 
• Even though there are plastic components, the bike features a heavy-duty steel frame that has a high weight capacity. 

Full Rating

Yosuda YB001R Bike

The YOSUDA YB001R Magnetic Exercise Bike offers a solid, quiet ride with customizable features, making it a great choice for those seeking an affordable, space-saving indoor cycling solution. While it lacks advanced tech features, its sturdy build and smooth operation provide excellent value for home fitness enthusiasts.

Product Brand: Yosuda

Product Currency: USD

Product Price: 339.99

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
3.94

Yosuda YB001R Bike Review: FAQs

References

1. Chavarrias, M., Carlos-Vivas, J., Collado-Mateo, D., & Pérez-Gómez, J. (2019). Health Benefits of Indoor Cycling: A Systematic Review. Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania), 55(8), 452. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina55080452

While it’s built decently and offers a ton of conveniences and technological capabilities, it has stiff competition in the world of the best treadmills for a home gym from the likes of NordicTrack, Horizon, and Sole Fitness. With so much competition in the market, I have to ask: Is the Victory Treadmill worthy to enter the winner’s circle of cardio equipment?

Lead reviewer for Garage Gym Reviews Everything Lindsay Scheele, CPT, tested out Aviron’s new treadmill, and in this Aviron Victory Treadmill review, we’ll go over the pros and cons of the gamified exercise equipment. Along with that, we’ll see if this treadmill is worthy to be among the greats—and worth its price tag.

A Victory Lap for Expert Treadmill Reviews

We’ve tested quite a few treadmills since GGR’s start in 2014. Our team of testers—certified personal trainers, coaches, and competitive athletes—have collectively tested over 60 treadmills from established brands and newer companies, alike. We’re confident with our combined decades of experience to bring you expert advice and honest opinions on treadmills, rowers, exercise bikes, and other cardio fitness equipment for at-home workout enthusiasts.

Lindsay Scheele, a certified personal trainer and nutrition coach, has personally tested over 40 treadmills in addition to countless samples of the best cardio machines, including Aviron rowers and bikes. In accordance with our fitness equipment testing methodology, she tested the Victory Treadmill across several categories, including:

• Workout performance
• Durability and construction
• Footprint and portability
• Customizations
• Technological capabilities
• Programming
• Overall value

Along with taking a look at warranties, returns, and other customer policies, she rated each of these categories between 1 and 5. Let’s see how this gamified treadmill stacked up.

Aviron Victory Treadmill

Aviron Victory Treadmill

GGR Score: 4.4

Check Price

$900 in savings See Details

Product Highlights

• Treadmill with gamified programming

• Weight capacity of 400 lbs

• Max speed of 12.5 mph

• Max incline of 12%

• 22" HD touchscreen

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 3.5-CHP motor
• High max speed of 12.5 mph
• 400-lb user weight limit
• Gamified programming
• 22″ HD touchscreen

Cons

• Display shakes at higher speeds
• Requires a subscription for full access

Bottom Line

The Aviron Victory Treadmill is a premium treadmill with gamified running workouts to help keep users motivated and engaged during their training. With a 3.5-horsepower motor and 400-pound weight capacity, it’s a very durable treadmill, although the 22-inch touchscreen display did shake a bit at higher speeds during our in-house testing.

A Quick Look at the Aviron Victory Treadmill

Aviron got its start in 2018 with a focus on rowing machines (like the Aviron Strong Series Rower), and soon expanded with offerings including the Aviron Fit Bike and Victory Treadmill. The most obvious difference between these cardio pieces and other competitors is their focus on interactive gameplay within their workout programs, providing a fun experience for casual runners and intense athletes alike.

Along with gamified programs, Aviron offers on-demand streaming services from top platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime, YouTube, Hulu, Spotify, and more. There’s also a robust community feature where you can participate in live competitions or compare yourself to other users—and elite runners—through leaderboards.

As far as the machine goes, it’s built to be durable with a reinforced steel construction and 400-pound user weight limit. It has a low step-up height of 4 inches as well as a cushioned deck and a sleek design, giving it a nice look and feel, overall.

Before You Buy

• If you’re looking to outfit your home gym with a few more items, you can bundle up different packages through the Aviron retail site. An extra $60 will get you their best treadmill mat, while $259 will add on the mat and a 25-pound pair of the Aviron Loadable Dumbbells.
• The Aviron Victory Treadmill comes with a 10-year warranty on the frame and drive motor as well as a 1-year limited warranty on parts and accessories. However, you’re able to upgrade to a lifetime warranty for $9 per month (available after your purchase).
• To get the most out of your Aviron Victory Treadmill, you’ll need an Aviron Membership plan. You’ll get one month free with your purchase, but costs can be as high as $29 monthly once your free trial ends.

Aviron Victory Treadmill Video Review

Is the Aviron Victory Treadmill Worth It?

“I’m pretty impressed with this treadmill from Aviron,” says Lindsay in regards to the Victory Treadmill. “It’s comfortable to run on, it’s built well—and I love the games that the programming has to offer. Competitive people like me are going to love being able to compare themselves with other people on leaderboards for different workouts.”

The regular cost might be a bit much for some folks to swallow at $3,499, but it’s currently marked down to $2,299 at the time of this writing. Even at its higher cost, we think it’s worthwhile to people looking for a higher-end product, especially given the uniqueness of the gamified training programs available through the Aviron subscription.

Lindsay rates the value of the treadmill a 4 out of 5, as it brings a lot to the table—although it won’t be everyone’s cup o’ tea. In addition to the machine costs, you’ll also need an Aviron Membership to use all of its functions. The treadmill’s also large, heavy, and doesn’t fold, making it a less-than-stellar option for someone needing a space-saving treadmill. 

Furthermore, some long-time runners may not be as interested in gamified programming. If that’s the case, similarly powered treadmills can be purchased for less, like the Nordictrack Commercial 1750, which is priced under $1,500, or even the Horizon 7.0 AT Treadmill, which is often for sale under $1,000, well below its MSRP of $2,100.

Aviron Victory Treadmill Specs

Using the Aviron Victory Treadmill

Certified personal trainer and expert product tester Lindsay Scheele, has taken the Aviron Victory Treadmill for a spin at GGR headquarters, and rates the overall workout experience an impressive 4.5 out of 5. 

The robust 3.5-horsepower motor can reach max speeds of 12.5 miles per hour, and the incline reaches 12%. These customizations earn a 4.5 out of 5, as speeds above 12 miles per hour are rare on treadmills. In use, she remarks that the treadmill is quiet, even when adjusting the incline. “The noise is about 57 decibels while in use, which is comparable to people having a normal conversation,” Lindsay adds.

Part of the quietness of the treadmill has to be attributed to the Cloud Stride Deck, which has six shock absorbers used to dampen operating noise and reduce impact while running. While it’s not the most cushioned deck ever, Lindsay says it’s still pretty good.

You can follow workouts and do tons of things from the 22-inch high-definition touchscreen display, including:

• Individual or team games 
• Coached workouts and guided programs
• Live competitions with leaderboards
• Pros vs Joes (racing against professional athletes)
• Streaming shows, movies, music, or books

The Spotify integration, in particular, is pretty interesting and a great feature for athletes that struggle with training motivation. The simple act of listening to music during your workouts can improve your experience and make you more likely to continue a consistent routine, according to Center4Research¹.

The membership is $29 per month, or $24 if you opt to be billed annually. Although that’s a sizable membership, Lindsay does mention it’s cheaper than other treadmill subscription services that usually cost around $40—looking at you, iFIT and Peloton.

Lindsay’s only major callout is that the large display can shake a bit once you get moving at higher speeds. “I almost feel like I get motion sickness if I run with the screen shaking for too long,” she notes. Although it may not have the same feel for everyone, any person who deals with motion sickness might want to consider this.

Footprint and Portability

The Victory Treadmill is 77 inches long and 33 inches wide, meaning you’ll need a decent amount of space to use your treadmill. It doesn’t fold, either, meaning you’ll most likely need a dedicated area for this treadmill.

RELATED: Best Folding Treadmills

At 242 pounds, this treadmill is a bit on the heavy side, as well. The Victory Treadmill also doesn’t have handlebars to lift up from, making it an awkward move, even with the transport wheels at the front. Lindsay rates the footprint and portability at 3 out of 5.

Durability and Construction

The Aviron Victory Treadmill earns a solid 4.5 out of 5 for its durability and construction. The frame, itself, is built out of reinforced steel and the treadmill contains a durable 3.5-horsepower motor. The weight capacity is also well above industry standards with a listed rating up to 400 pounds.

Still, the treadmill doesn’t get a perfect score here because the machine shakes a bit more than other treadmills—especially at this price range. As mentioned before, the screen can shake at higher speeds and the arms have a little wobble when Lindsay rocks side to side. “It’s nothing major, but I’m still surprised to see this much shake from an otherwise high-end piece of equipment,” she explains.

The Ergonomics

The cushioned deck uses shock absorbers and oversized, commercial-grade rollers to minimize noise and also create a smooth, cushioned running experience. Lindsay notes the cushioned deck isn’t the most cushioned deck she’s run on, but it’s still a nice deck. 

“I love the ultra-low step-up height of the running deck,” Lindsay adds. “Many treadmills are 6 or 8 inches high, but the Victory Treadmill is only 4 inches off the ground. It’s just a nice touch that makes me feel much more grounded in my runs.”

She rates the overall ergonomics at 4 out of 5. The running deck is 57 inches long and 20.5 inches wide, which should suit most runners, but may be a bit short for taller runners. Aviron claims the treadmill should be accommodating for people up to 6 feet and 5 inches tall.

Technology Benefits and Conveniences

The technology of the Aviron Victory Treadmill is certainly one of its highlights, earning a 5 out of 5 in the category. The flagship of its technological capabilities is the large, pivoting 22-inch touchscreen, which Lindsay notes is full-color and exquisitely vibrant. “Lots of displays will say they’re full-color, but a lot of colors feel dull. The colors on display here, on the other hand, are rich and vibrant,” she says.

Another nice addition to the treadmill is Bluetooth connectivity. With it, you can connect the treadmill to your favorite workout accessories like your best running headphones, heart rate monitor, or fitness tracker.

A pair of large cupholders sit just underneath the display, which is a nice touch, as well. You can have a bottle of water while streaming shows from Netflix and other services. Additionally, you can stream music from Spotify or Apple Music.

Programming

Aviron’s programming is also top-notch, earning another 5-out-of-5 rating for the Victory Treadmill. Almost any type of interactive programming you can think of, Aviron has it. Much of the programming revolves around gamifying your workouts, so you can play individual or team games, as well as compete in workouts or games with other users.

Gamification² is a concept where game design elements are incorporated into areas not typically used for gaming—in this case, cardiovascular exercise. The use of gamifying workouts has been shown to better develop positive habits in some people, particularly in creating consistent habits in exercise.

You can even compare your times and scores with professional athletes and runners, giving you a unique set of milestones to work toward in training. Some athletes may prefer a simpler approach to their programming, but the gamified workouts and challenges should be entertaining enough for a healthy portion of runners.

Aviron Victory Treadmill vs NordicTrack Commercial 1750

Nordictrack Commercial 1750

NordicTrack Commercial 1750

GGR Score: 4.4

Check Price

Up to $1,300 off smart machines and $2,200 off bundles See Details

Product Highlights

• Spacious running deck
• Compatible with iFIT
• 14-inch touchscreen
• Incline and decline training
• Financing available

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Compatible with iFIT
• 3.5 CHP motor
• Free trial of iFIT subscription with purchase
• Treadmill with incline and decline training
• Foldable to save space (EasyLift Assist)
• Run that feels similar to road running
• Financing options available through NordicTrack
• Generous speed range
• Wide running deck
• Cooling fan

Cons

• Big footprint
• Heavy and not the easiest to move
• Price is around $2,000
• Warranty is voided if the treadmill is used/stored in a garage

Bottom Line

If you’re looking to add a workhorse of a treadmill to your home gym, we recommend the NordicTrack Commercial 1750. It’s one of the few treadmills that has decline training capabilities and is compatible with iFIT, one of the best training programs.

For people looking for a robust and sturdy treadmill yet prefer more traditional, trainer-led workouts and programming, the NordicTrack 1750 may be a better fit. This commercial-grade treadmill comes in roughly $1,000 cheaper than the Aviron Victory Treadmill, but actually has a more powerful motor and some nicer customizations.

The 1750 has a massive 4.25-continuous-horsepower motor, which is larger than the Victory’s 3.5 horsepower drivetrain. NordicTrack’s treadmill also offers decline levels down to -3%. Both are rated for 400 pounds, but the running surface on the 1750 is a bit longer at 60 inches.

The 16-inch touchscreen is smaller than the Victory’s 22-inch display, and the programming is more traditional with the iFIT platform of over 16,000 on-demand workout programs. Another thing to factor in, however, is that an iFIT membership is more expensive, at roughly $40 per month.

We think both are solid treadmills, but one may suit your needs and fitness goals better than the other. You can read more in our NordicTrack Commercial 1750 review.

Customer Experience

You receive a 10-year frame and motor warranty with the Victory Treadmill  plus a limited 1-year warranty on parts and accessories. There is the option to upgrade to a lifetime warranty, but it looks like it’s offered at a cost of $9 per month. Since a few treadmills and cardio machines offer lifetime warranties (on their frames) for free, I’m not a huge fan of paying a subscription fee for additional coverage.

Aviron offers a 30-day risk-free trial to new users, where you can get a full refund on a return of a product you didn’t enjoy. To be eligible, this has to be your first time doing a return with Aviron, and the product must be in its original packaging. If you’ve had a return before, you can still return the product in 30 days, but your refund won’t cover any shipping costs.

Aviron gets a 4 out of 5 for its customer service, as you’re able to reach them via telephone, email, or through live chat on their website. Their Canadian address is also on their site, so anyone nearby may be able to visit their headquarters.

Ordering and Assembling the Aviron Victory Treadmill

The Aviron Victory Treadmill is available directly from avironactive.com, and can be purchased in different bundles: by itself, with a treadmill mat, or with a mat and set of Aviron Loadable Dumbbells.

Assembly is pretty straightforward and the treadmill comes with an instructions manual that’s easy to follow. However, they do offer professional delivery and assembly services at an extra pre-checkout cost. If you’re building it yourself, I’d recommend building it close to its final resting position, since it’ll weigh nearly 250 pounds once fully assembled.

Customer Reviews

As of this writing, there are a few reviews on the Aviron website, but not all are completely displayed. Because of this, there’s no way to fully gauge the average rating from customers. If this changes, we’ll be sure to update this section with new reviews.

However, from the three 5-star reviews listed on the site, people truly enjoy the gamified workouts available on the Victory Treadmill as well as instructor-led classes and community aspect of the workouts. One reviewer jokingly admits that without the gamified workouts, the treadmill would end up being a glorified coat rack—a fate seen all too many times by top home cardio equipment.

Final Verdict of Our Aviron Victory Treadmill Review

The Aviron Victory Treadmill is a solid piece of equipment with a durable construction and an impressively powerful motor. More importantly, it has competitive gaming and instructor-led programming incorporated into its workouts, keeping both beginners and advanced runners invested in their training. 

Although the price may prove too much for some budgets, if you can afford it, you’ll have a sturdy piece of equipment that has plenty of interactive features to keep you running for years to come. Here are some extra final takeaways to help you decide whether the Aviron Victory Treadmill is right for your training space:

• Although the treadmill is rated for 400 pounds, we did experience some wobbling and shaking at top speeds. It wasn’t a dealbreaker for our testers, but it’s something worth noting.
• Along with a high price tag, you’ll need an Aviron membership to fully unlock all of your treadmill’s features. That said, the monthly price is lower than comparable programming services like iFIT or Peloton.
• In addition to gamified workouts and instructor-led classes, you can stream shows, music, or books from some of your favorite platforms.

Full Rating

Aviron Victory Treadmill

The Aviron Victory Treadmill is a premium treadmill with gamified running workouts to help keep users motivated and engaged during their training. With a 3.5-horsepower motor and 400-pound weight capacity, it’s a very durable treadmill, although the 22-inch touchscreen display did shake a bit at higher speeds during our in-house testing.

Product Currency: USD

Product Price: 3499

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
4.35

Aviron Victory Treadmill: FAQs

References

1. Markell, J. (2020, July 21). Can listening to music improve your workout?. National Center for Health Research. https://www.center4research.org/can-listening-music-improve-workout/
2. Berglund, A., Jaarsma, T., Berglund, E., Strömberg, A., & Klompstra, L. (2022). Understanding and assessing gamification in digital healthcare interventions for patients with cardiovascular disease. European journal of cardiovascular nursing, 21(6), 630–638. https://doi.org/10.1093/eurjcn/zvac048

In this Horizon 7.0 IC Indoor Cycle review, we’ll be breaking down an affordable option from a company that specializes in cardio equipment for home gyms. Our expert product tester took this book through several workouts, looking for the pros and cons, and we’re here to share everything you need to know about this Horizon exercise bike. 

Tested by a Fitness Equipment Expert

Every review we publish is based on extensive hands-on testing from our team of experts, and for this review, our tester was Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC, the lead reviewer for our Garage Gym Reviews Everything channel. 

Lindsay is a home gym owner who’s tested all kinds of cardio equipment for us, and knows the ins and outs of all the best exercise bikes. She took the Horizon 7.0 IC through several workouts to test the various features, and calculated a final rating using our testing methodology. 

For this review, Lindsay gave this bike a score for a number of categories, including:

• Footprint and portability 
• Durability and construction
• Ergonomics
• Technology benefits and conveniences

Horizon 7.0 IC Indoor Cycle

Horizon 7.0 IC Indoor Cycle

GGR Score: 3.91

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Portable design

• Lightweight

• Includes heart rate monitor

• No subscription required

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Lightweight design
• Easy to transport
• Includes a Bluetooth heart rate monitor
• 100 resistance levels

Cons

• You have to click through resistance levels one at a time
• Some reviewers report receiving damaged parts
• The seat isn’t the most comfortable

Bottom Line

The Horizon 7.0 IC Indoor Cycle is a lightweight, portable, budget-friendly indoor exercise bike. Adjusting the resistance is a bit slow, but if you’d need to regularly change your resistance settings, this is a great bike.

A Quick Look at the Horizon 7.0 IC Indoor Cycle

Horizon specializes in cardio equipment for home gyms, including treadmills, ellipticals, different types of stationary bikes, and gym accessories. The 7.0 IC Indoor Cycle is Horizon’s higher-end indoor cycle meant to simulate a road bike, though it’s still more affordable than many competitors like the Peloton bike, or indoor bikes from NordicTrack. 

Indoor cycling is a great way to improve your aerobic fitness, burn calories, and reduce your blood pressure¹ at home, and this budget-friendly option is meant for those who want a bike that will last, without having to spend a small fortune.

This Horizon stationary bike features 100 levels of digital resistance, an adjustable seat and handlebars, Bluetooth connectivity, and even a heart rate monitor, all for an affordable rate. With so many resistance levels, beginners and advanced exercises alike can benefit from this bike. 

There’s no built-in HD screen for streaming classes, which means there’s also no mandatory subscription fee to access streaming workouts, but the bike is compatible with third-party apps that you can stream on a phone or tablet. Of course, you can also use the device holder to stream Netflix from your tablet.

This is certainly one of the more budget-friendly bikes we’ve tested, so rather than cutting-edge features and benefits, this is a simple yet durable bike that can be used for a variety of purposes. 

We have one callout with this bike that I’ll cover shortly, but overall, this is a light, portable, and versatile bike that’s great for most home gym users. 

Before You Buy

• The Horizon 7.0 IC doesn’t have any built-in programming, so there’s no additional subscription to pay for, but the bike is compatible with third-party apps.
• This bike has a list price of $1,299 but is often on sale for under $1,000.
• While the bike has 100 resistance levels, though it doesn’t have an adjustment knob.

Horizon 7.0 IC Indoor Cycle Review

Is the Horizon 7.0 IC Indoor Cycle Worth It?

This bike is cheaper than many other options on the market, but with so many options to choose from, it’s not a perfect fit for all home gym owners.

Horizon 7.0 IC Indoor Cycle Specs

Experience Using the Horizon 7.0 IC Indoor Cycle

Our tester, lead product tester Lindsay Scheele, CPT, CNC, is an expert when it comes to testing cardio equipment, and she took this bike through several workouts to test the various features and film a full video review for Garage Gym Reviews Everything. Overall, she said the bike was solid, especially given the budget-friendly price. 

RELATED: 9 Benefits of Indoor Cycling

The Horizon 7.0 indoor cycle has 100 levels of digital resistance, but adjusting the resistance isn’t as convenient as we’d like. You have to push the buttons on the screen, and you can’t just hold the adjustment arrow, you have to push it 100 times to reach the 100th level. 

As Lindsay said in her review, “There has GOT to be a better way to do this, because who has time for that?” If you’re doing a HIIT bike workout, adjusting the resistance between intervals isn’t a quick process. 

Aside from the resistance, she said the bike felt good to use, and was light and portable. She also pointed out that many customers left positive reviews and seem to be quite happy, so the adjustment feature may not be a big deal, especially if you tend to use the same resistance throughout your entire ride. 

Footprint and Portability

The 7.0 IC earns 5 out of 5 stars for portability, with a footprint of 47″ L x 21″ W x 47″ H. 

“This is the smallest indoor cycling bike that I’ve tested so far,” says Lindsay. “It weighs 87 pounds and has built-in wheels on the front. This is an incredibly easy bike to move around.”

The bike comes with built-in transport wheels, and it can easily fit through doorways and hallways.

If you plan on regularly storing the bike between uses, this may be the perfect option. Most home bikes are portable, but sometimes they’re a bit heavy and clunky–not the case with the Horizon 7.0 IC. 

Durability and Construction

For durability and construction, this bike earns 3 out of 5 stars. It’s fairly standard as far as bikes go, with no major concerns, but no standout features either. 

Despite its smaller frame, the bike still has a 300-pound user weight capacity, which is about what we’d expect to see on similar models, even higher-end home bikes.

The bike comes with an ECB magnetic brake system, though Lindsay said, “I typically don’t like that system, because it tends to wear on the bike a lot more. For every 50,000 km you ride, you’ll have to replace the brake pads.”

Yes, that’s still a lot of cycling, but if you regularly go on long rides, you may need to replace the brake pads sooner than you expect, which we thought was worth pointing out. 

We do love the dual pedals, however, which include clips on one side for cycling shoes that use SPD clips, and a toe cage on the other side if you prefer to wear your regular training shoes. 

Ergonomics

For the overall ergonomics, the Horizon 7.0 IC earns 3.5 out of 5 stars. This model gets the job done nicely, though there aren’t any huge standout features. 

It has everything you’d expect, with an adjustable seat, adjustable handlebars, and dual pedals, allowing you to use either bike shoes or regular sneakers. The bike also has dual water bottle holders that sit below the handlebars, and it’s very quiet when in use, which we love to see. 

Some users said the seat felt cheap and ended up purchasing an upgraded seat, but Lindsay didn’t have any issues with the seat and said this bike delivers a comfortable ride.

RELATED: Indoor vs. Outdoor Cycling

The magnetic resistance system is smooth and quiet, though some users report that it can be loud when adjusting the resistance levels.

Technology Benefits and Conveniences

This bike earns 3 out of 5 stars for technology benefits and conveniences, with a simple, minimalist approach that we actually love to see in a stationary bike.

There’s no built-in subscription or streaming classes, however, the bike is compatible with third-party fitness apps like Zwift or Peloton, and includes a tablet holder for your device. This means if you want to pair your bike with an existing subscription on a phone or tablet, you can do so, but it’s not mandatory to get the most out of this fitness bike.

Our biggest callout is the lack of an adjustment knob for the resistance settings, which isn’t obvious due to the big red knob below the handlebars that looks suspiciously similar to the sort of resistance adjustment knob you’d find on other spin bikes. However, that’s simply an emergency brake, and you still have to adjust the resistance, one level at a time, using the arrows on the control panel. 

RELATED: Peloton vs iFIT

Rather than a large HD touchscreen for streaming classes, the bike features a smaller LCD screen to display your workout stats and metrics in real-time. 

“The LCD screen is very small, but very user-friendly,” says Lindsay. “There weren’t any extra features I had to navigate through, and it connects with the included heart rate monitor via Bluetooth.”

Horizon 7.0 IC Indoor Cycle vs Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycle

Badge: Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycle Bike

Schwinn IC4

GGR Score: 4.4

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Connects to Peloton and Zwift apps
• 100 levels of resistance
• Sturdy and doesn’t shake while exercising

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Connects to Peloton and Zwift apps
• 100 levels of resistance
• Sturdy and doesn’t shake while exercising

Cons

• LCD display is bare bones
• Android users may notice a lag in metrics shown
• Parts note clearly labeled to help with assembly

Bottom Line

For under $1,000, the Schwinn IC4 is a solid purchase and one of the best exercise bikes if you’re looking for a cheaper alternative to Peloton.

If you’re shopping for home exercise bikes, the Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycle is another popular option you may want to consider. With similar features and a similar price point, the Schwinn has a lot in common with the Horizon 7.0 IC, and is the main bike Lindsay compared the Horizon to in her video review, along with the Bowflex C6 exercise bike. 

Both have similar designs and footprints, including the lack of built-in streaming options, which saves money on mandatory subscription fees and an expensive monitor. 

However, Schwinn IC4 includes two small dumbbells, similar to Peloton’s, and the resistance is adjustable by turning a knob. This is a small but significant difference, especially if you’re wanting more versatility in the your machine.

That said, the Schwinn is heavier and has a larger footprint, making it less portable. Overall, we recommend the Schwinn IC4 for those who won’t be moving their bike around too often, and we recommend the Horizon 7.0 IC for those who prioritize a smaller footprint and portability. 

For more, check out our full Schwinn IC4 Review. 

Customer Experience 

The Horizon Fitness customer experience earns 3 out of 5 stars. You can reach support via phone or email, and agents will respond during business hours. 

The bike is protected by a lifetime frame warranty, as well as a one-year parts and labor warranty, and you can return the bike within 30 days. However, similar to other fitness manufacturers, returns are subject to a 20% handling fee, unless you paid for the optional white glove delivery service. 

Ordering and Assembling the Horizon 7.0 IC Indoor Cycle

Ordering and assembling the bike is a breeze, and earns 4 out of 5 stars. Shipping is free, and orders can be financed directly through Horizon.

This bike has an incredibly easy assembly process that only took us 15 minutes to complete, and there’s a detailed setup guide on the Horizon website if you need help.

White-glove delivery service is available, but you can’t see the price until you finish the checkout process. This also results in a slower shipping time, so we recommend setting up the bike yourself.

Customer Reviews

The Horizon Fitness 7.0 IC Indoor Cycle has 36 customer reviews on the company website at the time of writing, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5. However, the bike is also sold on Amazon, where the score is only 2.7 out of 5 based on 19 ratings. 

Customers love the footprint and portability, though several reviewers mention quality control issues after receiving damaged parts, and others found the seat and dual-sided pedals felt cheap, so they upgraded them after purchasing the bike. 

Final Verdict of Our Horizon 7.0 IC Indoor Cycle Review

Overall, this is a decent bike for the price. We like the screen, included heart rate monitor, and lack of a mandatory subscription. It’s very light-weight and portable, but having to scroll through 100 resistance levels one at a time quickly gets old, which is really our only callout with this bike.

If you’re looking for portability and a small footprint, this is a great choice, but there are other options that have better resistance settings if you’re willing to spend just a little bit more.

• This bike is lightweight and portable, making it easy to move around between uses. 
• While it has 100 resistance levels, you need to manually adjust them and scroll through one at a time, which is a time-consuming process. 

Full Rating

Horizon 7.0 IC Indoor Cycle

The Horizon 7.0 IC Indoor Cycle is a lightweight, portable, budget-friendly indoor exercise bike. Adjusting the resistance is a bit slow, but if you’d need to regularly change your resistance settings, this is a great bike.

Product Currency: USD

Product Price: 1299

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
3.91

Horizon 7.0 IC Bike: FAQs

References

1. Chavarrias, M., Carlos-Vivas, J., Collado-Mateo, D., & Pérez-Gómez, J. (2019). Health Benefits of Indoor Cycling: A Systematic Review. Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania), 55(8), 452. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina55080452