Reebok Z-Power Exercise Bike Review

The Reebok Z-series of exercise bikes has been around for a number of years now and has replaced the popular, but rather low-specced, I-series range. Their Z-Power bike is a bit more expensive than a good number of similar bikes available on the market, so just what are you getting for your extra bucks?

Well, it’s a pretty, good-looking bike for starters but it’s not just pretty on the outside. Internally, there’s a 9kg flywheel which ensures a smooth, consistent ride and there are 32 levels of electronically controlled resistance controlled by a servo motor. It’s very much a standard set-up for a bike in this class but it works well and the top end of the resistance really should be enough for most domestic users. The pedals are self-levelling with foot-straps that help to keep the rider’s feet stable on the pedals making it easy to to get into a good position and stay there throughout the workout.

The gel saddle is nicely padded and quite wide meaning you’re unlikely to get too saddle sore, even if you’re a complete beginner. The seat adjusts horizontally and vertically and it’s also possible to tilt it before fixing it into position – though realistically you’ll only adjust this last element when first assembling the bike and are unlikely to touch it after that as there are no quick-release levers for this part. A bit disappointingly, the handlebars are fixed and don’t adjust in any way, though it is still possible to get a fairly good riding position despite this.

Once everything’s set up the console offers up a number of different training options comprising of a manual mode and 12 preset programmes. The manual mode is easy enough to understand to the point that you don’t really need to refer to the user manual and accessing the preset programmes is straight-forward even just by playing around with the buttons on the console. It’s intuitive to use and with a bit of patience, 90% of the console functions can be figured out just by a bit of trial and error experimentation. This is made a bit easier by the fact that the pre-set programmes have their profile printed right on the console and each of them can be used for a user-defined duration.

All training data including speed, time-elapsed, distance covered, calories burned, pulse, watts and RPM is clearly displayed on the bright 5.52 LCD window in such a way to make every bit of information clear and easy to see. There are hand-pulse sensors built into the handlebars which work ok, but it’s definitely a major let down to see that Reebok has opted to skip the inclusion of a proper wireless heart rate monitor here as it really should be standard on a bike these days.

On a more positive note, there’s a water bottle holder which really isn’t as small a thing as it sounds and this as well as the solid ergonomics make the overall rider experience a fairly good one. The Z-power bike has a maximum user weight of 120kg which is respectable and it also has transport wheels fitted to the front stabiliser making it easy to move around if you need to.

Best Price

Currently available for £399.00 from John Lewis

Review Summary - In Brief

The Reebok Z-Power exercise bike isn't bad. It's quite comfortable, is easy enough to use and definitely does a job. But, without a wireless heart rate monitor that can be used with a chest belt, it's not possible to take advantage of things like heart rate control workouts. There's no getting away from the feeling that this is quite disappointing given the price. If your heart rate is important to you and/or you're planning on training a few different ways then we'd recommend considering the DKN AM-E instead instead, which features a wireless heart rate receiver that allows you to get the most out of the heart rate control programs, has more onboard workouts, and also has 4 user profiles for multiple users. The thing is that the AM-E costs quite a bit less than the Z-power. Another model worth looking at is the Viavito Satori which also out-specs the Z-Power while beating it on price.

Reebok Z-Power Specifications

    • 9kg (19.8lbs) flywheel
    • 32 levels of computer controlled magnetic resistance
    • 12 programmes
    • 5.5″ LCD display
    • Heart rate measured via pulse grips
    • Feedback: speed, time, distance, calories, pulse, watts, RPM
    • Vertically and horizontally adjustable saddle
    • Balanced and adjustable pedals
    • Transport wheels
    • Max. User Weight: 120kg (264.6lbs)
    • Dimensions (L x W x H): 101cm (39.8”) x 51cm (20.1”) x 128cm (50.4”)
    • Product Weight: 31.5kg (69.4lbs)
    • Warranty: 3 year parts and labour

Reebok Z-Power Exercise Bike - Console / Display Unit

Reebok Z-Power Exercise Bike - User Reviews

The Pros

  • Comfy saddle
  • Easy to use
  • Warranty

The Cons

  • Handlebars cannot be adjusted
  • Lacking a wireless heart rate receiver
  • Limited ways to train
  • The price
Reebok Z-Power Exercise Bike Reviewer Ratings

 

Appearance - 8.5
Smoothness - 7
Comfort - 7
Programmes - 6
Ease Of Use - 7.5
Warranty - 8.5
Value for Money - 9
Best Price

Currently available for £399.00 from John Lewis

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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