Fitness Master X Series Momentum Indoor Cycling Bike

My title pretty much sums it up, but let me dig into a few more details for you dear reader.This spin bike is everything I was looking for. It is the equivalent of the spin bikes at the gym I used to be a member of. Those were Lemond bikes, though not the latest models, but still very nice ones - and very pricey!I'm 6'1" with a long torso and this bike has all of the adjustments that I need. I was looking at the less expensive spin bikes here on Amazon, but the one thing they lacked was the ability to adjust the handlebars fore/aft. That was an option I wasn't willing to do without, so I reluctantly paid more. I wasn't sure if the bike would be up to par and there were no dealers nearby that I could try before buying. Knowing Amazon has an excellent return policy, I took a chance on this one after much online research and comparison.The belt drive is smooth and quiet! The seat is comfortable to me, but I'm a former road racer. It's a personal item and can easily be changed out for another seat since it uses a standard mount. Also, the pedals are standard bike pedals, so they can be changed out to whatever you prefer. The ones that came with it have clips/straps on one side if you don't have or care to use cleated shoes. The other side are SPD cleat ready and the cleats are included! You will need shoes that can accommodate SPD cleats if you decide to use them and there are several models and styles to choose from here on Amazon or your preferred bike accessory dealer.The handlebars are quite nice with multiple styles for different riding positions. Time trial, Triathlon, etc. You can also hold on to the top bar as you would find on a traditional bike. It is only missing the drop style (road bike). They are covered with a foam padding which is sufficient. I also wear padded cycling gloves and am comfortable, though I may wrap the bars with an even more comfortable handlebar tape.I like the heavier 44lb flywheel which is perfectly balanced. This provides a smooth pedal stroke and feel to the "ride."The entire bike is very stable and has a very solid feel. There is no movement or rocking even with out of the saddle hard peddling.The wheels on the front crossbar are helpful for moving the bike around for a short distance. They are as adequate as I've seen on other spin bikes costing more.Assembly was very easy, though the instructions need to be updated. Parts had been changed, but were not reflected in the manual. Actually it went together easier and quicker than the way the instructions were written. But, it is easy to figure out on your own.The water bottle cage and water bottle are a nice touch. I would have added a universal one, but this one attaches to the already threaded down tube.The tension adjustment is smooth and uses dual pads against the flywheel. I have found there is plenty of adjustment range.Finally, this bike gets good marks for overall appearance. In my opinion, it looks as good as any spin bike you would find in any gym yet it cost much less.I used to spin at a local gym and loved doing so. I'm glad I know have the option to do so at home whenever time allows.My buying experience with Amazon was as good as always. I ordered it on a Friday afternoon selecting Super Saver Shipping and it was delivered by the following Wednesday. This was also a holiday weekend (Memorial Day). I'm impressed!

I would not recommend this bike. The belt refused to stay on the bike after 3 months of use -prior to the three months, the belt rubbed against the metal encasing. This is a very solid bike, and when working, was very enjoyable to ride- but for the money, this bike should have lasted much longer. You will notice that this bike is being sold by "gund"- when you click the link you get various pictures of teddy bears that this company is selling. so yes, my opinion is that this company bought a bunch of these bad bikes and are trying to unload them- as Amazon customer service could not even locate a number or email for me to file a complaint.As a result, Amazon has issued a full refund. Spend your money elsewhere- Amazon was great, but it did take quite a bit of persuading and I mentioned getting a lawyer several times, because if Amazon cannot provide an email or number to get a bike replaced that is under warranty, then it doesn't need to be selling the bike.All in all, this was one gigantic headache. do your research. I wish I had.

Cons: This bike squeaks high pitch and horrible with each turn. I've only ridin the bike 3x since I got it and I love to cycle at the gym. You have to mail in the warranty. This thing has been squeaking since day one and calling the company doesn't help.. They take a message then call you back when you're not home. I want someone to fix it. I believe it would be a great bike if it weren't so annoying. Can't seem to trouble shoot and my husband believes it's a factory issue w/ something internal w/ the belt. I'm 5'7" athletic 175 lbs, so I don't believe this is a weight issue.Pros: It was easy to put together, you'll need two people. It seems durable.I would love for someone from the company to call me so we can resolve this issue and I can write a better review. My zip code is 44146

I got this bike Oct 7, 2010 and I was so excited. I notice that the pad on the right side dragged on the flywheel but I could deal with that. Now the tension system is not working. It took many efforts just to find out the phone # to Fitness Master. Amazon was no help at all. I called Fitness Master to only find out that my warranty was void b/c I never sent in the warranty card which i informed them there were only instructions and not a manual with the bike and no card. Did not matter that I had a receipt........STILL VOID. So now I have to pay to have a brand new 600.00 bike fixed.....yes I should have called when I did not get a manual but I sure didn't realize the warranty would be void. So if you purchase this bike, MAKE sure you mail the card in and get Fitness Master phone # b/c Amazon will not be able to help you once you get it. When working, this is a good bike. I would recommend ordering from a bike store.