Optimum Fitness Fitness News and equipment reviews
When I am at the gym I prefer to ride recumbent bikes such as the Livestrong LS5.0R. They offer the same level of workout as a normal upright but without the saddle sore that is common on uprights.
The Livestrong range is produced by Johnstone fitness, a highly regarded company specialising in higher end cardio training machines.
One of the big advantages of buying the Livestrong Brand is their support for mens cancer. They have pledged to give $4m a year to cancer support through sales of their equipment. To visit their donation page click here
If you are looking for a comfortable and relaxing workout then this bike might be for you. With 16 levels of resistance, plenty of workout programs and a great saddle you may find yourself exercising for longer than you intend!
- Our Analysis
- Product Features
- Video
Flywheel
Hidden at the heart of the bike is the flywheel. And while you may never see it, it plays a huge part in the comfort and quality of the ride. In the case of the LS5.0R this is a finely balanced 8.8lb wheel. A reasonable weight for a bike of this price. In addition its very smooth, providing an excellent motion.
Livestrong have introduced a system called FreeSpin. This is a useful feature that stops the uncomfortable jarrs when taking up and releasing pressure from the pedals.
Resistance Levels
With its built in 16 levels of resistance there is something for everyone. Level 1 is barely even a free wheel, OK for a light warmup but not challenging for any one. Where you really begin to grow legs of steel is level 16. This provides a real athletic workout and would test even the fittest.
The resistance is delivered using magnetic resistance, giving again a nice smooth feel to the bike.
Comfort
A great looking padded seat awaits the rider, with its cushioned lumbar support you will be able to pedal for hours at a time without any discomfort whatsoever. This is the key difference to recumbents over upright bikes and really sets the Livestrong apart from the competition.
Livestrong have really thought about the potential users of this bike. If you are returning to exercise from injury they have a novel step through frame that is easy to mount and dismount, even with limited mobility.
Build Quality
First class. No issues what so ever the bike has a strong stable frame that will easily last beyond the 7 year warranty.
Console
I really like this console. It has a useful space for small things like a book or earbuds. More importantly the green LED’s are clear and easy to read. The buttons are big, accessable and give good feedback. The display feeds back all the stats you need: Time, distance, calories burned, watts, speed and your pulse.
Pulse is measured through the 2 grips at the side of the bike. Here we see the only real weakness of this bike and that is the lack of chest heart rate hookup.
The console gives access to the 9 workout programs:
Manual, Weight Loss, Muscle Toner, The Tour, Constant Watts, Mellow Johnny’s Trail, Climb, plus 2 custom programs.
Warranty
7 years on frame, 1 year on parts and labor
Pros and Cons of the Livestrong LS5.0R
Pros:
- We really like the step through design. No more huge leg lifts to mount the bike.
- The build quality is excellent for a bike in this price range. Overall very good!
Cons:
- Very few, so long as the delivery arrives safely there are no real negatives. One can always ask for more from their bike, such as bottle cages etc, but these always add more to the price.
What are others saying about the Livestrong LS5.0R
Feedback is good for this bike, as we struggle to find any issues with the LS5.0R so do other users. The biggest issue seems to be postage. Some customers have reported rare examples of damaged boxes being delivered. However Livestrong have been quick to put right any issues.
Overall the bike has scored a strong 4.1 out of 5 from about 20 reviews on Amazon.com
- Frame type: Recumbent bike
- Flywheel weight: 8.8 pounds
- Display type: 3 LED feedback windows
- Seat type: Padded with lumbar support
- Pedal type: QuickZip pedal straps
- Resistance: 16 levels
- Heart rate: Contact grips
- Dimensions: 26 by 46 by 64 inches (W x H x D)
- Weight: 117 pounds
- Warranties: 7 years on frame, 1 year on parts and labor
James’ Buying tip:
There is a newer version of this bike available, the LS6.0R as the 5.0R has been on the market for some time it is slightly cheaper. If you are willing to spend an extra $100 then the upgrade will give you a longer warranty (up to 10 years from 7), more resistance levels (20 from 16) and a more modern look. Check out the of the LS6.0R Review here, or click here to see the LS 6.0 Price
Summary
If you need a well built and capable recumbent bike then the Livestrong LS5.0R is a clear choice. We like the high tech features, especially the clear display, rounding off a solid comfortable bike.