Reebok Z9 Exercise Bike Review

The Reebok Z-series of fitness equipment is a brand new range launched in late 2011 and is effectively replacing the successful, but low spec, I-series of machines.

The Z9 is the top of the range exercise bike and is about £50 more expensive than the Z7 – both machines are of a similar size, so is the price difference worth it?

The simple answer is a resounding yes! In addition to being equipped with a 9KG flywheel that makes for a very smooth pedalling action, offering lateral adjustment on the seat in addition to the standard height adjustment, the Z9 features an electronic resistance mechanism, rather than the manual magnetic system found in most exercise bikes in this sort of price category.

We can confirm that the seat is quite comfortable and the pedalling action is smooth thanks to the heavy flywheel and quality drive components used. Getting started is really straightforward: adjust seat to position to get a comfortable position, hit the start button on the console and start pedalling! In this quick start mode, the resistance can be changed (choice of 32 levels!) using the “up” and “down” buttons on the console.

The console on the Z9 has a back lit, 2 colour LCD screen which is easy to read and provides all the important workout metrics. Overall, we found the console quite logical and easy to use.

The Z9 exercise bike’s console is packed with programmes to provide exercise variety. This consists of 12 pre-set, target programmes (time, distance or calories), pulse rate control, constant watt programme as well as a user-definable programme. The pre-set programmes have their profile printed right on the console and each of them can be used for a user defined duration. The real suprise was finding the constant watt programme! This feature makes this exercise bike an ergometer, which is a machine that has been calibrated to be able to measure the rate of energy consumption. In effect, you can set the level in watts (same as the units used in light bulbs) and the computer adjusts the resistance level automatically to ensure the target level is maintained.

Heart rate measurement is straightforward enough using the pulse grips sensors in the handlebars and there is even a built in recovery test function. This is effectively a fitness test and is very simple to do: once you’ve completed an exercise session on the bike, you press the recovery button on the console and grab the pulse grip sensors for 60 seconds. The computer measures the rate at which your pulse rate is returning to a resting state over the minute and uses this to calculate a fitness rating of between 1 and 7 (the lower the number the better). Whilst by no means a medically meaningful measurement, this feature will provide motivation by seeing fitness levels improve over time.

The maximum user weight is a respectable 120 kgs (over 18.5 stones) and there is a full 2 years parts and labour warranty in the unlikely event of a problem. Finally, it’s worth mentioning that there are transport wheels on the front of the machine, making it relatively easy to move it around once assembled and there are independent leg levellers to ensure that the bike will be stable on uneven floors

Best Price

The Reebok Z9 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 summary, the Reebok Z9 is a very impressive exercise bike that is smooth, simple to use and packed full of features that would normally only be found on exercise bikes in a higher price bracket! Highly recommended :)

Reebok Z9 Specifications

    • 32 levels of electro magnetic resistance
    • 9kg (20lbs) flywheel
    • Console with backlit LCD display
    • 17 programmes including manual, 12 pre-set, HRC, recovery test
    • Feedback: time, speed, RPM, distance, calories, pulse, watt.
    • Heart rate measurement via hand pulse sensors
    • 120kg (265lbs) maximum user weight
    • 32.5kg (72lbs)
    • Dimensions (L x W x H): 92cm (36.2”), 52cm (20.5”), 133cm (52.4”)
    • Conveniences: adjustable seat / pedals, transportation wheels
    • 2 years warranty

Reebok Z9 Exercise Bike - Console / Display Unit

Reebok Z9 Exercise Bike Console

Reebok Z9 Exercise Bike Reviewer Ratings

 

Appearance - 9
Smoothness - 9.5
Comfort - 9
Programmes - 9
Ease Of Use - 9.5
Warranty - 9
Value for Money - 9.5
Best Price

The Reebok Z9 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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