Review: ProForm 290 SPX Indoor Cycle Trainer
Manufacturer: ProForm
Pros: solid construction, heavy, smooth, has a water bottle holder, easy to use
Cons: handlebars wobble, noisy at times, uncomfortable seat
Verdict: An good choice for those on a budget
Merchant: buy from Amazon: $297
The ProForm 290 SPX is designed for anyone who wants to get into better shape. It features a chain drive system for a smooth, quiet ride. The handlebars adjust vertically, and the seat adjusts vertically and horizontally. Included also is a water bottle and wheels on the bottom for transporting. The pedals have toe cages for stability, though the pedals can be flipped over and used without them. The maximum weight capacity is 250 pounds, and the dimensions are: 48.6 x 46.5 x 19.9 inches (W x H x D) . The SPX is backed by a 5 year warranty for the frame, and 90 days for the labor and parts.
Pros
The ProForm 290 SPX is sleek and stylish, with a nice red/black color scheme. It’s a bike that you won’t be forced to hide when guests come over. The seat does adjust forward and backward, as you would expect, and the handlebars adjust vertically to help you find a comfortable position. The water bottle cage is always a nice feature to have, otherwise there is really no other convenient place to set a water bottle down at.
The flywheel weighs 40 pounds, which is quite heavy for an indoor cycling bike. The heavy flywheel provides a smoother ride, since it takes more effort to get the pedals moving. The bike is well built, and has a leveling system for stability. The transport wheels make it much easier to move from one spot to another.
One of the biggest indicators of quality with an indoor cycling bike is the maximum weight capacity. Most bikes have a capacity in the 200 pound range. The SPX bike however has a capacity of 250 pounds. The fact that it can hold that much more weight tells you that it’s well constructed. You can stand up on it and pedal hard without wobbling. It operates smoothly, and is fairly quiet overall.
It does have a brake as well, which allows you to slow it down in case you get injured or are ending your workout.
As far as the resistance knob, it will increase resistance with only a slight turn of the knob.
Most indoor cycling bikes are easy to assemble, as this one is no different. It only involves attaching a few parts, such as the peddles, handlebars, and levelers. The bike is simple to build and operate.
The current price $297 on Amazon.com is perfect for the person who wants a quality bike under $300.
Cons
The handlebars may wobble some and it’s noisy when changing gears. You will probably have to buy another seat. The only other downfall is that the handlebars don’t adjust horizontally, though is not often found on spin bikes anyhow.
Summary
The ProForm 290 SPX is well constructed, operates smoothly, has a water bottle holder, and is made by a reputable brand. There is some noise and a little wobbling from the handlebars, but nothing that should prevent you from buying it.
