The Life Fitness C9i is based on their popular gym bike and you can feel the same quality in this home version. The saddle is a dream to sit on and the forearm supports on the racing handles ensure a great riding position that's possibly the most comfortable on any bike we've tried. The action of the pedals is ultra-smooth and, of course, very quiet.

The console consists of 6 LED display windows that tell you all you need to know about your workout such as distance, calories, revs and heart rate. Compared to some models on the market the C9i's LED display may be starting to look a little dated but its simple layout makes all the data instantly readable.

You have a number of options to measure your pulse, both the vertical and horizontal handles have grips or you can use the more accurate chest strap (included) that communicates your pulse rate to the chip in the console. The chest strap is more accurate than the grips and a better option if you're using the heart rate controlled programmes.

There are no less than 19 workouts including 3 heart rate programmes to get you burning the fat at a fast rate whilst getting you fit quick. The in-built polar chip will measure your heart rate and alter resistance (there are 20 different levels) or the speed target to ensure the optimum benefits from your workout.

You can also design and name up to 7 programmes yourself plus store your workout data and keep track of your progress over time. Like the C9i this is self-powered meaning you can use it anywhere as it doesn't require mains electricity.

The warranty is an excellent lifetime on the frame, 5 years on the alternator, 3 years parts and labour on everything else.



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The Nautilus NR2000 recumbent exercise bike is a scorcher! I had to check the price tag on Nautilus's popular recumbent bike after taking it for a spin. It really is a cracker and easily the best I've tried so far for under £800. Their V-Force magnetic braking system apparently uses fewer moving parts than most on the market which means a longer life and a very quiet cycle action. It's also very smooth in action and the ride.

The console allows you to design two custom programmes in addition to the 6 other pre-set programmes which include 2 heart rate controlled workouts. Your pulse can be measured by grips in the handles or via a chest strap (provided) that communicates with a chip in the console. This is the best option as it's more accurate and therefore better for use with the heart rate programmes. These popular workouts monitor your heart rate and then alter the resistance on the pedals or speed targets to keep your heart beating at an optimum level for burning the fat or enhancing your fitness.

Pre-set programmes are a very useful way to keep your training varied so you don't get bored and stay motivated to keep coming back.

On a practical level there are large transport wheels at the front so you can tip it up to move around. A built-in water bottle holder and reading rack offer added convenience. The seat has lumbar support and was very comfortable.

The warranty covers the frame for life, all other parts for 10 years and labour for 1 year. Conclusion: The NR2000 looks great, feels great and is a treat to use for a very reasonable price.


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The Schwinn IC Elite Indoor spinning bike brings the outdoor cycling experience into your living room. Well that's what they claim and apart from the flies, traffic and pedestrians the Schwinn IC Elite does a pretty close job in my view.

The adjustable handles and seat settings will allow anyone from 4' 11" to 6' 8" (the extremes of our reviwers) to find an optimum riding position. Adjustments can be made quickly with the easy to use stainless steel locking pop pins. The handles are well designed and we found them to be very comfortable and give the bike a great feel.

The cycling action is very smooth thanks to a 17.5 kg flywheel and it's design. Now I have to admit I don't understand the theory behind Schwinn's flywheel but they claim that it 'optimally distributes the weight of the wheel to the outer part of the wheel and only minimum weight on the inside'. This provides the smooth, realistic racing bike feel whilst 'making it easier for the beginner yet challenging for the athlete!' - I'll take their word for it.

In addition to the innovative flywheel,Schwinn's Smart Release System combines the benefits of a fixed gear whilst allowing you to stop the pedals and slow down the flywheel by applying back pressure. The IC Elite gets the thumbs up from many professional cyclists for indoor training so you can get an idea of it's quality and features.

The resistance level adjustment knob is the easiest to use on the spinners I've tried so far and other touches such as transport wheels and bottle holders make it a very practical bike to train on. The warranty covers all parts for 2 years and includes labour for one.




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