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Sometimes Wrong but rarely in doubt!

29 November 2011

Diamondback 510S Recumbent Exercise Bike Review

I've always been a fat bastard.  I make no apologies for this, it's just a fact of my existence.  Despite being a fat bastard I've always been in decent shape, I used to run up stairs and I was always pretty physically active, doing martial arts, walking the dog or playing sports.  Since the children arrived I've been lax on the exercise front though and it's taken a tole.  To get back in some semblance of shape Mrs Bugbear suggested getting an exercise bike.  She wanted one to get off the pregnancy weight (if she ever gives birth) and slyly suggested that I might use it too.  We did a little research and decided on a recumbent exercise bike.

There were a couple of reasons we decided on a recumbent.  Head room in a basement is always at a premium.  After trying a recumbent I was sold since it is much more comfortable than a conventional exercise bike.  Mrs. Bugbear was keen on recumbents after using them in university as well.  After a bit of shopping we bought a Diamondback 510S which is last year's model I believe.  The 510 SR (this year's model) has different display but is in most particulars the same as the model we purchased.

I have to say that I'm very pleased with our purchase so far.  The only thing about the next model up that I could wish for is the upgraded seat, the mesh seat would make for a cooler workout.  The 510 S  features:

  • Preprogrammed workouts
  • Heart rate monitor
  • Frictionless Eddy Current Resistance System (no friction belts to replace)
  • Cooling fans (don't hold your breath, the cooling fan is anemic)
  • Upper rider weight limit of 350lbs.
My only complaints are that everything on the display is in Imperial except the power exerted which is in SI and I wish I could lower the seat and change the seatback angle but these are minor nits for the most part.   Overall I'd rate the Diamondback 510 S as a must buy if you're in the market for a recumbent exercise bike.

1 comment:

  1. My Schwinn Airdyne Wind Trainer ( http://www.schwinnfitness.com/schwinn_fitness_us/products/airdyne/prdcdovr~3550012/Schwinn+Airdyne+Exercise+Bike.jsp )is not recumbent, does not use a resistance belt (simple steel chain) and derives its resistance from the speed of pedaling driving the fan which occupies the space that would hold a front wheel on a bike.

    I use an external heart rate monitor (a strap and a watch, cheaper than the one that was optional for the bike itself). Max weight is claimed at 300 pounds, but I have a feeling 350 or more might be realistic. It's built like a tank.

    I find it a great product except for a bit of chain clank (although the chain should last a long, long time) and a bit of hum from the fan.

    The fan also serves to blow cool air over you as you work out, so that helps wick away moisture and keep you cool.

    It is an excellent upper and lower body workout and you can shift the balance by allowing legs or arms to do more work.

    I've had it for years and it is the favourite piece of exercise gear I have ever used. I did like the inclining treadmill at the health club and the AbRoller (my knock off is not as good). The Life Cycles at the health club were okay, but I prefer the Airdyne.

    My old room-mate Murray used to have one and he'd watch TV while riding it. I always prefer the iPod and music as the music gave me tempo and let me close my eyes as I plugged away.

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