Xterra MBX2500 Review
The XTERRA MBX2500 is a low-priced spin bike for home use. For smooth pedaling it features a 48.5-pound flywheel, and it lets you choose…
Xterra MBX2500 Specs
Rating | 8 |
---|---|
Type | Indoor |
Console display | LCD console |
Compact storage | no |
Resistance | 8 |
Seat type | Fully adjustable |
Programs | N/A |
Flywheel | 48 lbs |
Weight capacity | 300 lbs |
Dimensions | 56" L x 25" W x 53” H |
Why You Should Trust Our Reviews
Cycling at home is especially affordable with the XTERRA MBX2500, a new exercise bike introduced in 2017. This cycle trainer is quite streamlined but it boasts a 48-pound flywheel to support smooth rides. It also features multi-position handlebars and adjustable seating to offer good ergonomics to riders of most sizes.
As for electronics, the workout monitor is modest yet impressive for that of a spin bike under $500. It can show six data points at once, including heart rate if you wear a chest strap.
Purchased factory-direct the MBX2500 Indoor Spin Cycle carries a lifetime warranty on its frame, one year of free parts replacement, and one year of free in-home repair service.
The Great
- Smooth Resistance: The MBX2500 has a classic exercise bike resistance system with a heavy flywheel and contact brake. Weighing 48.5 pounds, the wheel can spin with impressive inertia to help create the feel of riding a road bike. You can adjust the resistance from light to strong with eight settings. A manual gear shift is beneath the handlebars.
- Workout Statistics: A small LCD monitor can show your RPM, speed, time elapsed, distance, calories and heart rate. The console is battery powered and the bike doesn’t use a power cord.
- Wireless Heart Rate Compatible: This bike has compatibility with wireless chest straps, which is a rare perk on bikes under $500.
- Adjustable Saddle: A pin system lets you adjust your distance from the pedals. You can move the saddle up/down and forward/backward.
- Caged Pedals: The pedals have toe cages for your stability during high-speed workouts
- Transport Wheels: Wheels are attached to help you move the machine.
- Customer Service: XTERRA Fitness customer service has a good reputation. You can count on timely parts replacement and servicing if needed. Repairs are made in-home, which isn’t the norm for exercise bikes under $500.
The Not-So-Great
- Large Increments Between Resistance Levels: The MBX2500 only has eight resistance or gear settings. In higher price classes most bikes have at least 20 resistance levels. With more settings between the minimum and maximum, obviously you can have a more tailored challenge.
- Belt Drive: A contact braking system is used. For comparison most indoor cycles for 2018 feature magnetic drives. These friction-free systems are more durable and also let exercise bikes operate more quietly.
- No Preset Workouts: Other spin bikes have wifi for accessing spin class videos and other workout programs. Workout programs, including video workouts, can automate the resistance on high-end spin bikes.
Who Should Use The Xterra 2500?
The XTERRA 2500 bike model is a good choice for people who want to accomplish intense indoor cycle training without spending much money. This bike offers strong resistance for people who expect a serious challenge, and the tension can be set for beginners too.
With adjustable seating and a weight capacity of 300 pounds, the MBX2500 can accommodate most teens and adults.
The Bottom Line
The XTERRA MBX2500 is a low-tech spin bike in an era of “connected” fitness machines. It costs far less than this year’s most expensive and attention-getting exercise bikes, which have video screens to show spin classes. This bike will also need maintenance sooner… but the basics for serious training are present: ergonomic design, smooth resistance at varied levels, and useful data feedback. On sale the MBX2500 can be a good value.
Xterra MBX2500 Specs
Rating | 8 |
---|---|
Type | Indoor |
Console display | LCD console |
Compact storage | no |
Resistance | 8 |
Seat type | Fully adjustable |
Programs | N/A |
Flywheel | 48 lbs |
Weight capacity | 300 lbs |
Dimensions | 56" L x 25" W x 53” H |