If you're looking for the comfort of a recumbent bike with the calorie burning benefits of an upright bike, you may want to check out a Smooth exercise bike.
While Smoothfitness makes both upright bikes and even a spinner model, their most popular models are their semi-recumbent bikes.
These are similar to a recumbent bike - with the benefits of an upright (mainly more calorie burning and better back support).
Smooth is a well-known name in both high end treadmills and commercial grade ellipticals. Last year they ventured into the exercise bike market and currently offer a range of well-built bikes starting from $599 and up.
Here's a brief rundown of their strengths and weaknesses:
Strengths:
1) Semi-Recumbent Bikes - Smooth currently offers two semi-recumbent models - with more to come in the new year.
These have a similar (more comfortable) seat as a recumbent but the seat is placed further above the pedals so your feet angle down more (similar to an upright). This combines the comfort of a recumbent bike with the calorie-burning benefits of an upright.
The V2300 bike for example also can be used as an elliptical (with a 17" stride). It gives you a stepper and elliptical motion. So if you want 2 machines in 1, you may want to consider this bike.
2) Backlit Consoles
Many cheaper bikes come with non-backlit consoles which can make reading your workout stats very difficult (especially if lighting in your workout area is limited). Smooth bikes come with blue backlit consoles which make tracking your stats easy.
3) Comfortable, Padded Seats
Smooth uses padded and sometimes even contoured seats on their bikes for extra comfort while you're riding. Plus they are easily adjustable.
The semi-recumbent bike seats like the V390 bike are 3D adjustable meaning you can adjust the seat height, distance and angle. So anyone in the family can use the bike and adjust it to fit their frame comfortably.
4) Long Warranties
Smooth puts decent warranties on their bikes - also a sign of good construction. For example, the Smooth V2300 Elliptical bike comes with a lifetime frame and brake warranty, 7 years on parts and 2 years on labor - which is pretty much unheard of and gives you a lot of protection on your investment.
5) Magnetic Braking
If you buy a quality bike, the type of braking system doesn't matter as much. However some buyers do prefer a magnetic braking system (vs digital) as they feel it's smoother and more reliable. Smooth uses magnetic braking on their bikes.
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Weaknesses:
While these bikes do carry several built-in workouts each, they don't have some of the "Bells and Whistles" that other brands may include in terms of tracking tools, new workouts,etc. which may or may not matter to you.
Conclusion: Recommended
If you want the comfort of a recumbent with the calorie-burning benefits of an upright - or if you want an elliptical and a bike - you may want to consider a Smooth exercise bike, more particularly their semi-recumbent bikes.
These are well-built with great warranties, adjustable seats, strong construction and bright, dual-color LCD consoles to make your workout both comfortable and productive.
Where To Buy At A Discount:
You can find Smooth Fitness bikes directly from the Manufacturer. They are currently offering Free Shipping to your home which can save you around $100.
