Sportstech Elite SX400 Spin Bike Review And Specs
The Sportstech Elite SX400 Indoor Cycle represents the best and brightest of German innovation in the spin experience. This high-performing model from the Elite line of the Sportstech brand is one of many high-tech developments in spin bike technology that streamline the spin experience and adds tech-savvy innovations into its design process to create an incredible spin bike on the market. The Sportstech Elite SX400 spin cycle offers precise and targeted exercise that meets all your fitness goals from the comfort of your own home. With the Sportstech Elite SX400, you’re promised continually powerful rides that will take your fitness goals to the next level.
The Sportstech Elite SX400 indoor spin bike is a great option for an exercise bike for every level of spinner due to its personalized and ergonomic spin design, in addition to its high-tech digital offerings and app integration that will let you keep up with any class or workout from home. All spinners will be drawn to the sturdy yet portable build of this bike that offers a heavy-duty and long-lasting performance no matter where it’s located or how often you use it. Having a gym-quality spin bike in your home is a major convenience. Though studio-quality bikes usually mean higher prices, the Sportstech Elite has a price of £679, making it an affordable mid-range bike for many users considering all of its technical innovations.
Beyond its tech-based innovations and reliable construction, the active performance of the Sportstech Elite indoor cycle is at the top of its class. Built with a heavy yet powerful 22-kilogram balanced flywheel that integrates seamlessly with the variable friction resistance while maintaining a powerful drive, this cycle provides an intense spin for reliable workout efficiency. The quiet belt drive ensures a smooth and hard-working ride without any issues, integrating high-powered resistance throughout your workout. Any level of beginning or intermediate spinner will likely be satisfied by this great option.
Built with a sturdy frame that supports riders on and off the Sportstech Elite SX400 as well as a strong transmission drive and variable friction resistance system, the Sportstech Elite SX400 is a powerhouse of customizable and high-energy fitness. The trustworthy drive belt and resistance system drives effortless pedaling, pairing well with the optimized and padded saddle and pedals to create a maximum workout that puts minimum strain on your body. Powerful and aesthetically pleasing, the Sportstech Elite SX400 is a great addition to any workout routine.
Sportstech Elite SX400 Spin Bike Review And Technical Information
Cycle Specifications:
- Width: 62 cm
- Length: 120 cm
- Height: 139 cm
- Max User Weight: 150 kilograms
- User Compatible Size Range: 5’0” to 6’2”
- Transportation Wheels
Digital Console:
The Sportstech Elite SX400 Indoor Cycle features a simple, easy to use console that’s built right into your bike and powers efficient, useful workout feedback through 4 AA batteries. The electronic console is compatible with pulse belts for integrated heart rate technology, providing instant heart rate tracking data right on your monitor. You can also track rotations per minute, distance, calories burned, time elapsed, speed cycled, pulse, and more all through your easy-to-use device. The built-in tablet mount makes it easy to mount on your device and Bluetooth connects to the direct technology-enhanced tools this bike also features, including integration with Kinomap and other route simulations as well as preprogrammed individual training programs.
The enabled Bluetooth connectivity means that your workout data can instantly be connected and saved to apps like KINOMAP. However, it’s not compatible with Zwift or Peloton, so you’d have to upgrade your own machine if you want that kind of functionality. Of course, you’ll need to pay for an additional subscription to a service like Kinomap or something similar, which is an additional fee that adds onto an already higher price.
SPD-Equipped Pedals:
- Universal pedals with adjustable toe straps
- Compatible with traditional fitness shoes
- Standard q-factor
The universally shaped pedals on the Sportstech Elite SX400 are wide and protective options for comfortable pedalling, but they are not SPD compatible. The universal shape and format of these pedals means they’ll fit most size feet and shoe sizes in, but because they’re not SPD compatible they’re not cleat-compatible and can’t be clipped into on either side. Not having the SPD capabilities are a drawback; the benefits of high-performing SPD pedals that can clip into cleats will prove themselves a worthy feature to all and not being able to enjoy them from the get-go on this already pricy bike feels like an oversight. The included toe straps are protective and do allow workouts with regular fitness options, but it would be nice to have SPD compatibility from the beginning instead of needing to swap out pedals to experience that.
The Q-factor on the Sportstech Elite SX400 is not specifically listed by the manufacturer, something unusual for a higher-end spin bike brand but typical of the Sportstech line. However, given the German inspired design and standard cycle elements, it’s safe to assume this q-factor falls into the narrow to narrow/wide category and does not surpass around 180mm. This Q-factor ratio is ideal for all spinners, creating the greatest efficiency for riders by balancing out feet and knee distance and maximizing linear drive that avoids strain on joints or muscles. By positioning your legs and feet to power straight down without bending inward or setting the rider in a wide and unstable position, the bike creates the perfect drive mechanism for powerful spinning with almost no impact on the body.
Sportstech Elite SX400 Indoor Cycle Flywheel:
- 22 kg fixed flywheel
- Balanced bi-directional front-fixed flywheel
- Felt resistance pad drives tight friction resistance
The Sportstech Elite SX400 flywheel is made up of a large and powerful friction resistance system that provides smooth pedalling and braking despite the heavy mass of the flywheel itself. The fixed front flywheel works to generate internal power that propels the pedals forward as you push. The front fixed flywheel works to generate upper leg training because of its anterior positioning, requiring more toning and forward driving movements in order to generate the same amount of power and resistance.
The transmission belt system, heavyweight flywheel, and strong frame make this bike reliable. Just like the rest of this bike, the flywheel is built to withstand any amount of use, so you’ll have no problem riding it for many years or taking it with you if you move from place to place. However, the felt and leather resistance pads could be an issue because of the direct contact braking. It could wear out more gradually over time and wear through the resistance capabilities, making your resistance quality worsen. With the shorter warranty, there’s also less protection against wear and tear after your first two years.
Sportstech Elite SX400 Indoor Cycle Resistance:
- The Sportstech Elite SX400 Indoor Cycle offers friction-based felt resistance
- Adjust your resistance level gradually through an included resistance knob
The Sportstech Elite SX400 Indoor Cycle uses friction technology to create a simple approach to resistance. Instead of having a pre-set amount of resistance levels like other pieces of exercise equipment, this spin bike features variable resistance levels that automatically adjust based on the intensity with which you crank the built-in tension knob, which also functions as a brake on your machine. The brake contacts directly to the flywheel, pressing down on the flywheel to slow rotation and force you to pedal faster in order to get better traction and rotation.
Though friction bikes are unusual in such high-tech or pricy machines, the Sportstech SX400 manages to perform very well regardless of its friction based resistance. The infinitely variable rotary knob tightens the pressure the friction pad applies to the flywheel, creating harder resistance to pedal through the tighter you crank the wheel. These incremental variable changes are usually preferred by spinners who enjoy longer cardio burn rides, and Sportstech Elite SX400 provides access to gradual yet instant resistance changes through these quick resistance adjustments. The rotary knob also acts as an instant brake, stopping any rotation in its tracks with a lever push-down emergency stop.
Four-Way Adjustable Padded Seat and Dual Position Handlebars:
- Padded, dual-position four-way adjustable handlebars
- Four-way adjustable padded seat
Tweaking your spin bike to meet your exact needs is easier than ever with the Sportstech Elite SX400 handlebars and saddle height and fore-aft adjustments. Two series of levers control the front to back and height adjustments for both pieces of machinery, making it easy to find a good spinning position you can always feel comfortable in. The saddle and handlebar adjustment angles mean that your bike is adjustable in all directions, meaning that you can find your perfect fit with much greater accuracy and detail than other spin cycles offer. The other big highlight of this cycle is the dual position handlebars and bike seat. The handlebars offer multiple different positions for gripping while you ride, all comfortably padded for your ideal use and including additional elbow pads. For riders who need flexibility with positioning and stances while riding or standing up on your cycle, this feature is a huge bonus.
Sportstech Elite SX400 Drive Belt and Gear Ratio:
The Sportstech Elite SX400 spin bike’s valuable silent drive system features the latest in spin bike transmission innovation despite being connected to a friction resistance system. This high-performing and low maintenance transmission belt (most likely made of polymer or a similarly smooth material) works overtime to provide an ideally gentle ride for every user. Belt systems are designed to improve on the standard chain system that road bikes feature, but the Sportstech Elite SX400 belt drive takes this a step further especially in comparison with the friction felt pad design. Maintenance won’t be necessary with this sleek and reliable belt drive.
Unfortunately, because it’s friction based these bikes are not as low-noise as many other cycles. When combined with the friction resistance system the Sportstech Elite SX400 bike rides somewhat noisily, meaning you may need to limit your spinning hours to the daytime or in places where you won’t disturb anyone. The signature gear ratio does contributes to your smooth and quiet ride and tries to reduce noise somewhat: the ease of adjustment with the friction resistance system contributes to the overall silence of your ride and eliminates the loud cranking and creaking that some older spin bikes or outdoor chain bike models are known for.
Sportstech Elite SX400 Indoor Cycle Price and Warranty:
- The Sportstech Elite SX400 Indoor Cycle is currently priced at £679
- The Sportstech Elite SX400 Indoor Cycle offers a two year manufacturer warranty covering frame, parts, and adjustments
For warranty questions or parts replacement, you can contact the distributors, InnovaMaxx Uk, here: info@sportstech.de. or call them directly at +49 (0)30 220 66 35 20.
The price of this bike in comparison to the range of features it offers and the range of other bikes available is decent, but the lower grade friction resistance system is something to note. However, keep in mind that should you want to fully integrate with the Kinomap app as the developers promote, you’ll also need to pay the subscription fees to that service. Sportstech Elite SX400 cycles are good mid-range bikes, but their price comes a bit close to being overpriced especially with all the additional expenses you need.
Assembly and Shipping:
- Shipped for free in a single box with partial assembly required
- Takes about two weeks to arrive
- Package weighs around 65 kilograms
Assembling your Sportstech Elite SX400 Indoor Cycle is pretty standard as far as cycle assembly goes. Following the included manual will help, though make sure you grab a partner to help you move the package and stack the components. The more complicated parts, such as the flywheel and the chain system, come pre-assembled, so you won’t need to worry about how to assemble the inner workings of the bike, and needed wrenches or assembly tools are also included.
Sportstech Elite SX400 Indoor Cycle Pros:.
Smooth Driving Poly Transmission Belt:
With the combination of the transmission belt and its suspected polymer consistency, the Sportstech Elite SX400 Indoor Cycle transmission is a key component of this indoor cycle’s studio-level quality performance. Both the durability and silent performance of the poly drive belt mean that it performs at a high degree consistently over a long period of time, so you won’t have to worry about maintenance or performance issues for a while after you purchase it, in addition to the two years of warranty coverage the manufacturer provides. The no-slip, no-jerk drive that’s achieved through the smooth belt design is another big motivator, creating an innovative and silky smooth ride.
App Compatible Digital Console:
The app compatibility on the Sportstech Elite SX400 is one of the best built-in monitors on the market. This console tracks your performance metrics and immediately impacts your work performance by providing relevant feedback. The console powers on easily and connects via Bluetooth to apps, phones, and other fitness trackers, including the popular Kinomap, making it an easy choice for people who enjoy third party connectivity and functionality. The heart rate tracking capacity is a nice plus, as is the ability to stream to a larger television in case you want to be fully immersed in your digital cycling world.
Sportstech Elite Indoor Cycle Cons:
Noisy Performance:
Spin bikes typically rely on a quieter and smoother magnetic resistance to help reduce their noise, and for a higher-priced bike, you’d expect it to boast similar features. However, that’s not the case with the Sportstech Elite SX400. The leather pad drags on the bike and creates audible vibrations and drag that you can hear easily. While it does provide sleek braking and a no-slip timing belt, the friction system mostly generates noise despite these functions. The friction system is also highly durable despite its constant contact, meaning that your bike’s lifespan can stand years of regular and intensive use without sacrificing any of the performance quality or quietness of your ride.
Expensive for the Lack of Magnetic Resistance:
The price tag on the Sportstech Elite SX400 Indoor Cycle is something we would expect to see on a magnetic resistance model or at the very least, a higher-tech friction model. At £679, this is overpriced for how low-tech some of the components are. You’re paying for high-tech components and a durable frame, but the lack of magnetic resistance and no SPD pedals doesn’t inspire confidence in the full value of the price tag. There’s also the added expense of a Kinomap subscription if you plan on purchasing that and replacing or leveling up any other features.
Friction-Based Resistance:
The Sportstech Elite SX400 Indoor Cycle doesn’t offer the best when it comes to spin bike resistance quality and standards. Friction resistance just doesn’t stand up to higher-performing magnetic resistance models, and the variable resistance can be really frustrating for riders who prefer pre-determined resistance. The Sportstech Elite SX400 still manages to deliver a strong drive and tough resistance that can challenge you if you’re working hard enough, but the lack of specific resistance levels and variable knob means you’ll have to get comfortable with tweaking and slightly adjusting a lot.
Last Word on the Sportstech Elite SX400 Indoor Spin Cycle:
The Sportstech Elite SX400 Indoor Spin Cycle is a decent midrange piece of spin machinery that would be well suited to any gym, studio, or workout space. The versatile design (including adjustable components and pedals) and durable frame build mean this bike will last a long time and can withstand many different workouts by all types of riders. The Sportstech Elite SX400 Indoor Spin Cycle offers a lot of good quality performance capabilities, especially when it comes to the drive and integrated technology components that’s also highly durable.
All told, the Sportstech Elite SX400 Indoor Spin bike is definitely an expensive and potentially overpriced bike, but it could also be a good investment into a future of dedicated spinning and indoor cycling for those who don’t mind paying more than they could for a good quality bike. Its durable resistance system ensures scalable and challenging workouts that will build your intensity up and allow you to scale up your workout intensity time after time through the variable resistance level system. The initial price tag is very large, but the longevity and durability of the bike will likely make the investment worthwhile for serious spinners with some cash to spare.
