Sportstech Indoor Cycles Comparison And Reviews
Sportstech is one of the top competitors operating in the indoor cycling industry today. For many years Sportstech has been one of the best brands to turn to for high-quality fitness products, and their exercise bikes are no exception. Sportstech stationary bikes offer an exceptional workout that will help you train your body and mind. Sportstech offers a wide range of spin bikes that are built with durability and quality at the forefront. Sportstech’s offerings also encompass a wide spectrum of prices, so they have spin bikes that are suitable for both the veteran and the layperson. While all of their bikes are high-quality offerings, our Sportstech indoor cycling bike reviews will help you find the model which will be best for you.
Whether you’re a seasoned veteran in the world of exercise bikes or you’re new to spin cycling entirely, Sportstech has a variety of offerings which means you can make a selection which is best suited to your experience level and preferences. Additionally, Sportstech bikes present many high-quality features which will ensure you get an intense workout every time. Including a belt drive system, a vertically and horizontally adjustable saddle and handlebars, and much more, Sportstech bikes are built to deliver you the best workout with every use. Sportstech bikes are built to last, and with a modern and ergonomic design, Sportstech spin bikes offer a rewarding workout which is easy on the body every time.
Best Sportstech Spin Bikes – Reviews + Comparison
Sportstech SX600 Exercise Bike
Stalwart, reliable, but pricey, the Sportstech SX600 is the best and brightest of the spin bikes which Sportstech offers. For Sportstech’s highest quality offering, they spared no expense. Featuring a belt drive system and a magnetic resistance system that utilizes a 26kg flywheel, which ensures that you will always have a smooth, quiet workout. One of the best spin bikes in the UK, the SX600 is also equipped with sturdy aluminum construction, making it a hardy piece of equipment that is built to stand up to all of your needs. The ergonomic design of the SX600 comes trained with 3-in-1 sports handlebars with padded armrests. It also features a comfortable spin bike seat which along with the handlebars can be adjusted both horizontally and vertically, so that you can always find a comfortable position to ride in. Additionally, the Sportstech SX600 has a user weight limit of 180kg, so it is suitable for riders of all shapes and sizes. Integrated hand pulse sensors allow you to have constant knowledge of your current level of exertion, enabling you to tailor your workout on the fly.
The SX600 also has a 7-inch built-in Android display, or alternatively you have the option of utilizing the phone/tablet mount with which you can utilize the many features of the “KinoMap” and “FitShow” apps. And if that wasn’t enough choice, the Sportstech SX600 also has a USB port which allows you to stream your own music or videos on the integrated monitor. The Sportstech SX600 also features “universal” pedals, which have SPD compatibility so that you can maintain a perfect grip on the pedals even in the midst of an intense workout session, but also offer a non-SPD side so that the SX600 may be used without special SPD cleats. Although the SX600 is on the bulky side, it is equipped with transfer wheels which make it easy to tuck it away after every workout, making it accessible in spite of its size.
As the top model with Sportstech, the SX600 is naturally equipped with higher-quality parts than Sportstech’s cheaper models. Perhaps the most stark contrast is between the SX600 and the SX400, SX200, and SX100, none of which feature SPD pedals. While this isn’t important for all riders it is for those who are more experienced or desire the highest level of efficiency the SPD pedals are an essential feature. Another noticeable difference which can be found between the Sportstech bikes is flywheel weight. The Sportstech SX600 features the heaviest flywheel, at 26kg, and as the models get cheaper the flywheel incrementally becomes lighter weight. This doesn’t necessarily say anything about the cheaper models, but does ensure that the SX600 will have the smoothest ride available from Sportstech’s line of spin bikes. Finally, the SX600 is the only Sportstech bike which offers a built-in hand pulse sensor, with others either offering pulse belt compatibility or nothing at all. Of course, these features don’t come cheap and the SX600 will cost you about $1450. Overall, the SX600 is a top-notch product, and one that you wouldn’t be mistaken to purchase.
Sportstech SX500 Indoor Cycling Bike
Another strong entry in Sportstech’s line of indoor cycles, the SX500 is one of the best spin bikes in the UK for under £1000 and while cheaper than the SX600, does not make any compromises. Like the SX600, Sportstech has equipped the SX500 with a belt drive system, but rather than magnetic resistance uses leather resistance. Another difference between the SX500 and SX600 is a 25kg flywheel rather than 26kg. Nonetheless, those three features provide for a near-silent workout experience that can’t be beaten. Once again similar to the SX600, the SX500 has a strong aluminum construction which guarantees that it will be able to withstand even the most intense workout sessions. The SX500 comes equipped with padded armrests for maximum comfort while training in the aero position. Adding to its comfort-oriented features, the SX500 is also furnished with a comfortable saddle which along with the handlebars allows for vertical and horizontal adjustment. The weight limit of the Sportstech SX500 is also adequate, sitting at 150kg, which means that the SX500 will be a suitable choice for people of most body types and sizes.
Like the SX600, the SX500 features the same built-in hand pulse sensors found on the SX600, and is also compatible with pulse belts, so you can make sure you’re always within the heart rate range you desire. Sportstech knows that keeping track of certain statistics during your ride is imperative, and they’ve equipped the SX500 accordingly. The SX500 features a smart console which lists several stats such as speed, heart rate, distance, and more. You also have the option of placing a phone or tablet on the integrated tablet holder with the SX500 having full compatibility with the “KinoMap” and “FitShow” apps. For the seasoned spin cyclist, the Sportstech SX500 does feature SPD compatible pedals, which also have adjustable toe cages so that the bike is suitable for riders of any skill level. Similarly to the SX600, the SX500 also features transfer wheels making it easy to store after every use.
A natural step down from the SX600, the SX500 still has plenty to offer even the most discerning spin cyclist. It does lack some of the specialized features of the SX600, most notably the built in hand pulse sensors and the 7-inch Android display. However, the flywheel on Sportstech’s SX500 is a considerable 25kg, only 1kg lighter than the SX600, the SX500 still features SPD compatible pedals, and utilizes a belt drive system. One unfortunate difference is in the resistance system, which takes a step down from magnetic resistance to felt pad friction resistance. The SX500 does boast several benefits over Sportstech’s cheaper models. Not least of these benefits are SPD compatible pedals, which are lacking on any model lower than the SX500. Continuing down the line, Sportstech’s lower models also incrementally decrease the flywheel weight and maximum user weight, so if those are of concern the SX500 will likely be a safe bet. All said and done, the Sportstech SX500 costs roughly $1050, making it quite cheaper than the SX600 which softens the blow of the few missing features. Overall, the SX500 is a respectable piece of equipment for its price range.
Sportstech SX400 Indoor Cycle
Continuing down Sportstech’s line of spin bikes, the SX400 indoor cycle is a substantial mid-range contender. As with the rest of their bikes, the SX400 does come equipped with a top-of-the-line belt drive system, ensuring that you have a nearly silent workout each time you use your SX400. In opposition to both the SX600 and SX500 Sportstech has fitted the SX400 with a felt-pad friction resistance system. Coming with the decrease in price we also see a downgrade in flywheel weight to 22kg, however this is still quite substantial and will ensure a smooth ride with no bumps. Quite alike the SX500, Sportstech has equipped the SX400 with padded armrests allowing for minimal discomfort when riding in an aerodynamic position. Further the Sportstech SX400 is trained with the same horizontally and vertically adjustable saddle and handlebars to maximize your comfort during use. As with the SX500, the SX400 maintains a user weight limit of 150kg, which while not quite as high as the SX600 is likely suitable for most indoor bike users.
The Sportstech SX400 once again features hand pulse sensors, and is also compatible with heart rate belts, which is helpful for anyone who needs to know their heart rate while exercising. If you are somebody who worries about keeping track of statistics while exercising, the SX400 has you covered. Equipped with a smart console, the SX400 tracks several statistics during your ride such as distance, heart rate, and calories burned. For those who would prefer to do so, you can also place a phone or tablet on the built-in tablet holder and use the “KinoMap” and “iBiking” apps which are compatible with the SX400. A noticeable absence on the Sportstech SX400 is the lack of SPD compatible pedals. Instead Sportstech opts to just have pedals with an adjustable toe cage, which does make the SX400 more accessible to new riders, but also limits its potential for the more experienced rider.
The Sportstech SX400 does not lack much which can be found on the SX500, but what it does lack is sorely absent. Most detrimental to the seasoned spin bike user is the lack of SPD compatible pedals, with Sportstech instead including pedals which are only equipped with an adjustable toe cage. The SX400 also has a slightly lighter flywheel than the SX500, going from 25kg to 22kg, and is another downgrade from a leather friction resistance system to felt pad resistance. The Sportstech SX400 maintains all of the different methods of customization present on their more expensive models such as horizontally and vertically adjustable saddle and handlebars. The SX400 does feature the very high utility hand pulse sensors, but this isn’t enough to justify its other lackings. The Sportstech SX400 will cost you approximately $895, which is just a bit too high given some of the features that it lacks such as SPD compatible pedals and leather friction resistance (or magnetic resistance). Thus, while the SX400 is not necessarily a bad bike, if you can afford a slightly higher price, the SX500 packs in a lot more bang for your buck.
Sportstech SX200 Indoor Spin Bike
Next in line is the Sportstech SX200 spin bike, a quality piece of equipment in the low-to-mid-range price point. As one might expect with a Sportstech bike, the SX200 is equipped with a belt drive system and features the same felt pad resistance as seen on the SX400. The smooth belt drive system ensures that you will have a silent workout every time you use the SX200. Despite the decreasing price, the SX200 maintains the same flywheel weight of 22kg that we see on the SX400, which is quite substantial to ensure a non-bumpy riding experience. On the Sportstech SX200, we once again find padded armrests, which guarantee that you can always comfortably ride in an aerodynamic position. As with all Sportstech bikes, the SX200 features a horizontally and vertically adjustable saddle, but as opposed to Sportstech higher models, the SX200 only lets you adjust the handlebars vertically. This greatly limits customization options and will hinder your ability to find a comfortable riding position.
The SX200 also has the same user weight limit as the SX400 and SX500, sitting at 150kg, which will be suitable for most users. Similar to most of their bikes, Sportstech designed the SX200 to include hand pulse sensors and pulse belt compatibility, which is wonderful for anybody who must track their heart rate as they exercise. Trained with a similar smart console to some of Sportstech’s higher models, the SX200 tracks several statistics during your ride such as RPM, heart rate, and distance cycled. If you would prefer to do so the SX200 also features Bluetooth compatibility, so you can place a phone or tablet on the built-in tablet holder and use the “iConsole” app. As with the SX400, the SX200 also lacks SPD-compatible pedals, instead opting to have pedals with an adjustable toe cage to enable use with any shoes and not only spinning shoes.
The Sportstech SX200 is similar to the SX400 in many respects, but with slight downgrades which affect its quality considerably. As already touched on, the lack of any horizontal customizability of the handlebars is a very limiting factor, which will make it difficult to always ride in a comfortable position. Another hindrance is a lack of sweat protection for the flywheel. Without sweat protection over the flywheel the friction resistance system is likely to wear down considerably faster over time. Even further, the SX200 is simply not as well constructed as the more expensive models, and while the SX200 is not going to fall apart on you anytime soon, it is not as durable as it could be. Finally, with the lack of SPD compatible foot pedals, instead opting only for adjustable toe cages, which while accessible for those without SPD pedals is detrimental to those who desire them. For all these drawbacks, the SX200 will cost you a rough total of $697. The bottom line is, the SX200 while not being a particularly awful piece of equipment, does lack several features that make it not worth the amount that it will cost you.
Sportstech SX100 Spin Bike
Finally the cheapest model offered by Sportstech is the SX100, which is not the greatest exercise bike which you can find in the low price range. With a similar make up as the SX200, the SX100 has a belt drive system and the same felt pad resistance as on the SX200 and SX400. The belt drive system will be significantly quieter than a chain system, but the friction resistance means that it is not as quiet as if it had magnetic resistance. Coming with the price decrease we also see a drop in flywheel weight, going from the 22kg on the SX400 and SX200 to a mere 13kg, which although on the lighter side is still sufficient to guarantee a ride without any bumps.With the Sportstech SX100 we once again find padded armrests, which ensure comfort while riding an an aerodynamic position. Similar to the SX200, the SX100 features a vertically and horizontally adjustable saddle, but limited adjustability with the handlebars, only allowing for vertical adjustments. Unfortunately this seriously limits the ability to customize your SX100 and makes it more difficult to find a riding position which is comfortable for you. Another downgrade: the SX100 has a user weight limit 120kg, which is a drastic decrease from the 150kg weight limit which can be found on the SX500, SX400, and SX200.
One feature which the SX100 maintains in common with all of Sportstech’s other bikes is the inclusion of an integrated hand pulse monitor and pulse belt compatibility. This feature is beneficial for all of those who need to track their HR during their workout. Although it is not quite as sleek as the higher models, the SX100 does still feature a display which features several important statistics to track during your exercise, such as distance, calories burned, and heart rate. Unfortunately, the SX100 has dropped Bluetooth support with tablets and smartphones, so you will not be able to use any fitness apps along with your Sportstech SX100. As with the SX400 and SX200 has a noticeable lack of SPD compatibility with their pedals. Sportstech has decided instead to include pedals which simply feature an adjustable toe cage, making them adequate for riders without SPD pedals, but limiting the availability of this product to those who use them.
As we saw with the comparison between the SX200 and the SX400, the SX100 is a noticeable step down from the SX200. Possibly the most jarring difference between these bikes is the drastic decrease in flywheel weight from 22kg to 13kg. That’s not to say that 13kg is an inadequate weight for a flywheel, simply that there are better options for a non-extraordinary jump in price. One marked improvement between the SX200 and the SX100 is that the SX100 actually includes sweat protection for the flywheel, a great benefit since otherwise the felt pad resistance system would likely fall apart much quicker. The SX100 will cost you approximately $525 which is quite expensive for a spin bike which lacks so many important features which can be found on Sportstech’s higher priced models.
The Final Verdict
Overall, Sportstech is definitely a contender when it comes to the top indoor exercise bike brands, and our top choice from the Sportstech line would definitely be the SX600. The SX600 features many high quality features, including a 7-inch Android display, 26kg flywheel, magnetic resistance, SPD compatible foot pedals, and so much more. The Sportstech SX600 is definitely a pricier bike at $1,450, but the technological innovations and spin savvy integrations make it a high quality purchase that would be a smart choice for all if you’re able to afford it.
Sportstech is a top cycling brand that continues to produce high-quality machines at a variety of budget points. Quality, durability, and technological integration have been central to the Sportstech mission, and that’s evident in every bike they produce. Resistance and belt drive machinery is top-notch on Sportstech bikes, generating powerful and consistent workouts that you’ll be looking forward to every time you ride. Digital workout tracking and integration are also at an all-time high with Sportstech bikes, making it a great twenty-first-century fitness experience the electronics fans in your house will surely appreciate. Wherever you’re at in your cycling journey, Sportstech will deliver a great experience.
