Life Fitness just can't make average bikes, they deliver superb machines time after time and the R3 is no exception. It's an incredibly comfortable bike to sit on and use. The padded seat can be reclined up to 20 degrees and has a breathable fabric back for comfort - a must if you're the sweaty type :0)
The cushioned pedals have a non-slip surface and come with straps to keep your feet in place. The action, as with all their bikes, is silky smooth and very, very quiet. If you want a gentle introduction to exercise this bike can be a great place to start. But it doesn't stop there, if you're already fit then it will also challenge you to your limits!
As with their other bikes we recommend you go for the Advanced console version of the R3 as it has more programmes and a built-in chip for a chest strap heart monitor. The Basic version is £145 less but you don't get the heart rate programmes or the chest strap.
The console is very easy to use and the 10 pre-set programmes provide enough variation to get you fit and keep you training. The programmes include Hills, Cardio, Race Mode and the aptly named Fat Burn. The Fat Burn workout maintains a resistance level to keep your heart pumping at 65% of it's maximum! The Heart Rate Hill programme is even tougher taking you up and down hills varying the resistance to get your heart at 70%, 75% and 80% of your max and letting you drop back down to 60% on the valleys. You can literally feel the fat burn off! Good job it has that breathable seat back :0)
It also has Goal Workouts where you set the distance, calories or target heart rate you wish to achieve. You can also race the computer over a pre-set distance with the Race Mode programme. The console also has 2 user profiles so you and your partner can keep track of your progress.
It's self-powered so you can put it anywhere as it doesn't require mains electricity. The warranty is their extensive lifetime on the frame, 5 years on the alternator, 3 years parts and labour on everything else.
Conclusion:
The R3 Advanced is a superb bike that will benefit both the beginner and challenge even the fittest individual. It will keep you going for years with its range of programmes and is well worth the money in our view.
