Life Fitness R9i Recumbent Bike Review

Our view – the R9i is based on one of their gym models so you can be assured it’s a quality piece of kit that’s built to last. The contoured seat has no less than 34 adjustable positions so even the fussiest user should be able to find one comfortable position. It’s one heck of an ergonomically designed and engineered bike and feels great to sit on and use. In fear of sounding a little repetitive when reviewing Life Fitness bikes, the action is extra silky smooth and quiet, in fact, it’s so quiet you can hear your knee ligaments creak.

The console is the same as the C9i with 6 LED display windows that tell you all you need to know about your workout. The workout programmes contain some of the most imaginative ones we’ve come across. There are 5 heart rate controlled programmes that vary the resistence levels based on your pulse – you get a chest strap to monitor this. The heart rate workouts are great to burn the fat and get fit. The Fat Burn keeps your heart rate at 65% of your maximum rate (based on your age), the Extreme Heart Rate session takes you to and fro from 65% to 85% for optimum fitness training. There is even a programme called Kilimanjaro which obviously has the odd slope here and there to negotiate.

You also have the facility to design and name up to 7 programmes yourself plus store your workout data and keep track of your progress over time.

On the practical front you get a bottle holder at the side of the seat plus an accessory tray and reading rack for your book. This is self-powered meaning you can use it anywhere as it doesn’t require mains electricity. The warranty is their extensive lifetime on the frame, 5 years on the alternator, 3 years parts and labour on everything else.

The R9i as close to the ultimate bike you can currently buy. It’s so comfortable to use that you hardly know you’re exercising on the easy levels so it’s ideal for anyone starting out on a training programme. However, when you crank up the difficulty it would even challenge an olympic cyclist! Great bike at a great price.

Best Price

The 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

Specifications

    • Magnetic braking system with 20 resistance levels
    • 19 pre-set programmes
    • 7 custom programmes – you design your own
    • Hand grips to monitor pulse and built-in polar chip (chest strap included)
    • 6 window LED display
    • Race style handle bars with forearm support.
    • Self-powered (no mains required)

Life Fitness R9i Recumbent Bike - Console / Display Unit

Life Fitness R9i Recumbent Bike Console

Life Fitness R9i Recumbent Bike Reviewer Ratings

 

Appearance - 9
Smoothness - 8
Comfort - 10
Programmes - 10
Ease Of Use - 9
Warranty - 10
Value for Money - 10
Best Price

The 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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