Sportstech Professional SX500 Indoor Cycle Review
The Sportstech Professional SX 500 Indoor Cycle brings the power and precision of German innovation to the spin experience and the landscape of exercise bikes in the UK. This high-performing model from the Sportstech Professional line is one of many recent developments in spin bike technology that streamlines the spin experience and adds tech-savvy innovations into its design process to create one of the best modern spin bikes in the UK market. The Sportstech Professional SX500 spin cycle offers precise, powerful, and targeted exercise that meets all your fitness goals from the comfort of your own home. With the Sportstech Professional SX500, you’re promised powerful ride after powerful ride that will take your fitness goals to the next level.
The Sportstech Professional SX500 indoor spin bike appeals to every level of spinner due to its personalized, intense, 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 that can make all the difference in the world when it comes to your workout and contribution to a healthier life. Though studio-quality bikes usually mean higher prices, the Sportstech Professional has a price of £749, making it an affordable, mid-range bike for many users.
Beyond its tech-based innovations and reliable construction, the active performance of the Sportstech Professional indoor cycle is at the top of its class. Built with a heavy yet powerful 55-pound balanced flywheel that integrates flawlessly with the variable friction resistance while maintaining powerful drive, this cycle provides an effortlessly intense spin for maximum workout efficiency. The quiet belt drive ensures a smooth and hard-working ride without any issues, integrating high-powered resistance throughout your workout. Both novice and elite spinners will fall in love with this top-notch bike which provides so many health and wellness benefits to all kinds of users.
Built with a sturdy aluminum frame that supports riders on and off the Sportstech Professional SX500 as well as a powerful transmission drive and variable friction resistance system, the Sportstech Professional SX500 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 Professional SX500 is a great addition to any workout routine.
Sportstech Professional SX500 Indoor Spin Bike
Cycle Specifications:
- Width: 24”
- Length: 50″
- Height: 54”
- Bike Weight: 140 Pounds
- Max User Weight: 330 Pounds
- UserCompatible Size Range: 5’0” to 6’2”
- Transportation Wheels
Digital Console:
The Sportstech Professional SX500 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 odometers, 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 your device and Bluetooth connect 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, and the inclusion of pulse sensors means that your bike could potentially work with Zwift. 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 to an already hefty price.
SPD-Equipped Pedals:
- Universal SPD-equipped pedals with adjustable toe straps
- Dual-sided pedals are compatible with cycling shoes and traditional fitness shoes
- Narrow q-factor
As far as versatility and performance go, the universal SPD pedals on the Sportstech Professional Indoor Spin bike are pretty stellar. The universal shape and format of these pedals means they’ll fit most size feet and shoe configurations in addition to being dual-sided, and can be clipped into on either side. You can clip in and out of these shoes in seconds, creating maximum flexibility for spinners whose workouts require lifting on or off the pedals rapidly or repeatedly. The SPD capabilities are another plus; the benefits of high-performing SPD pedals that can clip into cleats will prove themselves a worthy feature to all. The included toe straps also allow workouts with traditional tennis or athletic shoes as well.
The Q-factor on the Sportstech Professional SX500 is not specifically listed by the manufacturer, something rather odd for a higher-end spin bike brand but typical of the Sportstech line. However, given the German-inspired design, 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 the powerful muscle of your leg 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 Professional SX500 Indoor Cycle Flywheel:
- 55 lb fixed flywheel
- Balanced front-fixed flywheel
- Felt and leather resistance pad drives fierce resistance bidirectionally
The Sportstech Professional SX500 flywheel is made up of an intensely powerful friction resistance system that provides smooth pedaling 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, meaning you work especially hard with every stride to earn a good workout. The front fixed flywheel works to generate more quad and hamstring 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 Professional SX500 Indoor Cycle Resistance:
- The Sportstech Professional SX500 Indoor Cycle offers friction-based felt and leather resistance
- Adjust your resistance level gradually through an included resistance knob
The Sportstech Professional SX500 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 that you have to select between, 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. 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 at this price point, the Sportstech SX500 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 Professional SX500 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.
Seat and Handlebars:
- Padded, dual-position handlebars
- Four-way adjustable padded seat
Tweaking your spin bike to meet your exact needs is easier than ever with the Sportstech Professional SX500 saddle height and fore-aft adjustments. Two series of levers control the front to back and height adjustments for the saddle, making it easy to find a good spinning position you can always feel comfortable in. The saddle adjustment angles mean that your bike saddle 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 bike is the dual position handlebars.
The handlebars offer two 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. However, the handlebars only adjust in a height direction – you can’t angle them in a specific position or move them forward and backward like you can the saddle. Most riders don’t need the handlebars to be tilted, but some may find the angle less than ideal, which could make this an issue.
Sportstech Professional SX500 Drive Belt and Gear Ratio:
The Sportstech Professional SX500 spin bike’s innovative silent drive system features the latest in spin bike transmission innovation. 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 Professional SX500 belt drive takes this a step further. Maintenance won’t be necessary with this sleek and reliable belt drive.
The low-noise component of these belt drives is also a major win for busy spinners who need to fit a workout in at night or when others in your household might be sleeping. When combined with the friction resistance system the Sportstech Professional SX500 bike rides very quietly, designed with noise reduction training to absorb vibrations and noise, meaning you can go for a spin anywhere, anytime without worrying about creating a racket or waking up the whole house. The signature gear ratio also contributes to your smooth and quiet ride: 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.
Price and Warranty:
- The Sportstech Professional SX500 Indoor Cycle is currently priced at £749, making it one of the best indoor cycles under £1000
- The Sportstech Professional SX500 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 Professional SX500 cycles are good mid-range bikes, but their price comes a bit close to being overpriced.
Assembly and Shipping:
- Shipped for free in a single box with partial assembly required
- Takes about two weeks to arrive
- Package is 9 x 46 x 38” and weighs 150 pounds
Assembling your Sportstech Professional SX500 Indoor Cycle is pretty standard as far as cycle assembly goes. Following the included manual will help tremendously, 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 Professional SX500 Indoor Cycle Pros:
Smooth Driving Transmission Belt:
With the combination of the transmission belt and its suspected polymer consistency, the Sportstech Professional SX500 Indoor Cycle transmission is a key component of this indoor cycle’s studio-level quality performance. Both the durability and silent performance of the 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 that you won’t second guess or regret taking.
Silent Performance:
For such a heavy and bulky bike, you’d expect it to make a lot of noise during your workout, especially due to the leather drag on the cycle. However, that’s not the case with the Sportstech Professional SX500. The sleek braking, no-slip timing belt work together to make a silent yet intense workout. 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.
App Compatible Digital Console:
The app compatibility on the Sportstech Professional SX500 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 Professional Indoor Cycle Cons:
Expensive for the Lack of Magnetic Resistance:
The price tag on the Sportstech Professional SX500 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 £749, 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, underperforming console, and smaller warranty of just two years throws some doubt on the longevity of the device. There’s also the added expense of a Kinomap subscription if you plan on purchasing that.
Friction-Based Resistance:
The Sportstech Professional SX500 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 Professional SX500 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 means you’ll have to get comfortable with tweaking and slightly adjusting a lot.
Last Word on the Sportstech Professional SX500 Indoor Spin Cycle:
The Sportstech Professional SX500 Indoor Spin Cycle is a good, 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 Professional SX500 Indoor Spin Cycle offers a lot of good quality performance capabilities, especially when it comes to the drive, pedals, and integrated technology components, and its durability makes it a worthwhile investment.
All told, the Sportstech Professional SX500 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.
