DKN Folding XD Exercise Bike Review

We’ve tested a plethora of DKN kit over the years and generally speaking, it’s their ingenuity and engineering that positions the brand as a pioneering leader in the fitness industry. A glance at the price tag AND the word “folding” and the unique selling points of the DKN XD become obvious! We won’t pretend that we embarked upon this particular test with the usual excitement that precedes the launch of some of DKN’s past ground-breaking cycles (this time we don’t get to play with the iWorld app via tablet compatibility!) but in the world of fitness equipment, price tags and spec sheets, don’t tell the whole story! So with that in mind, let’s ‘unfold’ the truth behind the DKN XD Folding Bike!…

Getting the bike built is a simple 5-step process. The instruction manual has diagrams showing the location of parts and fixings. Although the line illustrations are a little ‘sketchy’, they are matched with a blister pack of screws and bolts with corresponding numbers making the process simple with regular cross reference.

To unfold (or fold) the XD is even simpler. The frame design is basically an ‘X’ which is hinged in the centre. Pull out the locking pin and the bike can be folded or unfolded in a second.  The best part is that when it’s folded, the bike only takes up around 18″ x 17″ of floor space!

The XD doesn’t come with inbuilt transport wheels as you’d find on most other models – the idea here, is that the majority of users will in fact be able to pick the entire frame up comfortably and put it in its place! This part should really have a caveat attached, whereby we remind you that 15 Kg (the product weight) is not going to feel light to all users, so the ease of which the XD can be handled will obviously depend on the strength and conditioning of the individual.

The bike needs no mains power, so it can be positioned anywhere in the home, without needing to be by a socket. This also does away with the trip-hazard of any cables. The downside is that the very basic, battery powered console doesn’t offer the visual motivation and features of a flashy electric one, but is adequate in keeping you informed of the essential training feedback.

The display shows Time, Speed, Distance, Calories and Heart Rate or you can press scan and the computer will flick through each at 6 second intervals.  The inclusion of pulse grip sensors on the handlebars is a nice feature to monitor one’s pulse readings (although we always remind you that this method is often rather inaccurate).

Another feature that we were pleased to see was an adjustable seat stem that varies from 32″ to 35″ from the floor to the top of the saddle. This makes the XD suitable for users of various heights and leg lengths. In addition, this model has unique Velcro straps on the pedals, to ensure that, whatever your shoe size, your feet can be securely held in place. The use of Velcro is rarely seen on pedals despite the fact that we found these very effective and easier to adjust than the normal rubber ones (which have a common tendency to split).

There are 8 resistance levels which are adjusted by a twist dial. This basic method of manually adjusted magnetic resistance seems a rather crude approach to resistance control but is very price appropriate and certainly does the job intended. To expect more, you’d obviously need to pay a considerable amount more to better this – and that extends to the resistance levels themselves. There is nothing within the 8 levels of adjustment which would provide much in the way of ‘challenges’ to the advanced user – that’s not who the XD bike is made for…

In terms of durability and comfort, The XD falls into the bracket of a bike aimed at ‘Joe Average’ (‘Joe’ being a unisex name!) The maximum user capacity is rated up to 100 Kg  (that’s 15 and a half stone). That said, during our tests it became clear that the modest specifications of the XD, don’t necessarily give a fair impression of the quality and capabilities of this model. For one, the sturdiness of the frame when in use was remarkably stable, so as long as you keep under that maximum weight allowance, the XD should stand up well under the pressure of moderately intense sessions.  The flywheel is stated as weighing 5kg, which you may be able to appreciate when you lift the lightweight frame, but what can only be appreciated during use, is just how surprisingly smooth and non-jerky the pedal action feels.

So in summary, what did we make of the DKN XD Folding Cycle?

The appeal of the XD bike is as simple as the bike itself – it requires little investment OR space. Size-wise, this is about as compact and space-saving as you could ever wish for in an exercise bike. Price –wise… Well… Just check the latest prices! – It’s cheaper than a few months membership at most gyms, and certainly a lot more convenient and hassle free to use. That said, if you are used to using health club machines (which typically cost around £2k!) then clearly, you can’t expect the same workout experience from the sub-£100 XD!

There are understandable compromises and shortcomings to be expected with a bike at this price – manual resistance, no pre-set programs, limited tension etc etc BUT, perhaps more importantly, DKN seem to have retained an overall level of quality, that far supersedes the staggeringly low RRP.

At this bargain price, we didn’t expect much…. Yet the XD bike offered more than we bargained for!

Best Price

The DKN XD Folding is not currently available from any retailers we're aware of in the UK.
It may be worth looking for a used machine on ebay

Review Summary - In Brief

In an ideal world, everyone would have plenty of space for the perfect exercise bike, and budget would never be a consideration! However, in the real world, both may well be an issue and in either of these scenarios, this isn't a bad choice. Though it's well worth considering the Viavito Onyx as not only is it available for £10 less, the max resistance levels are noticeably higher than the XD bike.

DKN XD Folding Specifications

    • 5kg (11lbs) flywheel weight
    • 8 levels of magnetic resistance
    • Console with LCD display
    • Feedback: distance, time, speed, calories, heart rate
    • Heart rate measurement via pulse grips
    • Size in use (L x W x H): 81cm (31.9”) x 43cm (16.9”) x 115cm (45.3”)
    • Folded Size (L x W x H): 45cm (17.7”) x 43cm (16.9”) x 140cm (55.1”)
    • Weight of the product: 15kg (33lbs)
    • 100kg (220.5lbs) maxiumum user weight
    • Warranty: 2 years

DKN XD Exercise Bike - Console / Display Unit

DKN XD Exercise Bike - User Reviews

The Pros

  • It’s a Folding bike!
  • It’s light enough for one person to lift
  • Surprisingly stable and smooth in use
  • It’s as cheap as chips! (but much better for you!)

The Cons

  • Fans of ‘bells & whistles’ gadgetry should look elsewhere
DKN XD Exercise Bike Reviewer Ratings

 

Appearance - 8
Smoothness - 8
Comfort - 8
Programmes - 5
Ease Of Use - 8
Warranty - 8.5
Value for Money - 9
Best Price

The DKN XD Folding is not currently available from any retailers we're aware of in the UK.
It may be worth looking for a used machine on ebay

Also see our Exercise Bike Comparison Table

Whilst every effort is made to give you accurate information we cannot guarantee the technical specification. Models change on a regular basis and may differ slightly from the above review. We recommend you contact the retailer if you have a question regarding technical data. Please read our Legal Disclaimer

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