How Good Is the Life Fitness C1 Upright Bike? 

With proper care and maintenance, the Life Fitness C1 Upright Bike can last longer and serve its purpose.  

It is in so many ways similar to the Spirit Fitness XBU55 Upright Exercise Bike.  

This bike comes with a Go Console, but you can upgrade to the Track Connect 2.0 console. The advanced console has a lot more features than the default one. We will highlight these features as we progress through this review.  

Meanwhile, if you want a quick peek at the best price of the Life Fitness C1 Upright Bike, check out Amazon.  

The Frame & Construction 

Just like other Life Cycle bikes, this is designed to be used at home and in the office because it is compact and lightweight. 

It has a biomechanical design that will be suitable for people of all ages, including those who wish to embark on physical rehabilitation. However, it doesn’t have a step-through design that would allow users to literally step in and begin to work out.  

The frame is made of durable steel that is powder-coated with anti-corrosion paint. While the drive system is shrouded with thick, quality plastic for protective and cosmetic reasons.  

Its stability is great because of the integrated front and rear stabilizers with anti-skid plastic paddings.  

The overall build is sleek and compact; thus, it can fit in a room or office space. The overall assembled dimensions are 45’’ long (114 cm) by 27’’ (68.58 cm) wide. Therefore, a space with measurements of 3’75’’ in length by 2’75’’ wide can accommodate the unit. However, there should be enough free space around the bike for a safe and convenient workout experience. 

Moving the bike around the room is easy because it is lightweight (weighs 116 lbs/52.6 kg) and there are rolling wheels at the front stabilizer. It supports a maximum user weight of 300 lbs./136 kg.  

The bike’s build is mainly made up of steel and plastic.  

The Seat of the Life Fitness C1 Upright Bike 

The seat of this upright bike is not something exceptional or extraordinary. It features a standard seat with padding and upholstery for comfort. However, for enhanced comfort, a gel seat cover can be used or a cycling pant. Better still, you can replace the seat with one of your choice if necessary. This will enable you to exercise longer.  

The seat can only be adjusted vertically; that is, up/down. There are several adjustable positions that can allow users of different heights to utilize the bike. The manufacturer does not disclose the inseam the product supports, but generally, users between 5’ and 6’4’’ tall will be able to exercise on it.  

To adjust the seat, simply locate the knob on the side of the seat bar, turn it counterclockwise to loosen it, then adjust the seat to the position you want, and then turn the knob clockwise to tighten it. There are 12 adjustable seat positions to select from.  

The Handlebar 

The handlebar of the Life Fitness C1 Upright Bike is ergonomically designed with a racing arm style that supports the forearm during intense workouts. It is coated with soft anti-slip rubber foam that prevents slippage or calluses.  

No, the handlebar is not adjustable but has been set in a position that would offer the desired comfort to all users.  

Heart rate sensors are embedded on the handlebar for heart rate monitoring purposes.  

The Pedals 

The pedals are those that usually come with upright bikes. They don’t have toe cages like those that are found on cycling bikes, but instead they are textured with an adjustable strap. Hence, they securely accommodate different foot sizes.  

They are also self-leveling, therefore, users can easily saddle up and get on with their workout.

Nevertheless, users can swap the pedals for any of their choice if the thread size is 9/16’’. 

The Drive  

Upright bikes commonly have a belt drive system, and so does the Life Fitness C1 Upright Bike. Therefore, its operation is smooth and quiet. So, using the bike anywhere is possible because you won’t bother people around you.  

It has an anti-stretch belt with a pulley and a perimeter-weighted flywheel (weight is not disclosed). Thus, maintenance is rarely required.  

The drive system allows users to pedal either way: forward or backward. This makes it possible to diversify your workout in order to target multiple lower muscle groups. That said, it is not possible to coast on the pedals; therefore, you must not stop pedaling abruptly to avoid an accident that might result in an injury.  

The Resistance System 

The resistance system is magnetic. This means it has a resistance system that includes a magnetic element. In other words, the system consists of a magnetic pad(s) that releases magnetic fields on the flywheel, thereby generating resistance.  

The closeness of the magnetic pad to the flywheel determines the level of challenge it provides to the user.  

Bear in mind that no part comes in contact with another in this process of generating resistance; hence, the bike operation remains consistently smooth and quiet even when a resistance level is deployed.  

Also, the resistance system parts don’t wear out over time to the point that they might need replacement or repair. It will suffice to say that the resistance system is maintenance-free.  

There are 20 resistance levels to be selected from. Each resistance level has a certain level of challenge it provides. Users can select a resistance level that is suitable for them depending on their fitness level.  

Many users have expressed satisfaction with achieving their fitness goals using this upright bike. The bike is suitable for rehab and overall physical fitness improvement.  

The Console/Monitor 

The Life Fitness C1 Upright Bike has two types of consoles. It has the Go Console, which is the default one that comes with the bike. Then, there is the Track Connect 2.0 console. The latter is optional; if you wish to upgrade the console from the default to that one, you can. The Track Connect 2.0 console has more features than the former.  

Go Console 

Go console offers basic features that will enable you to work out and achieve your fitness goals. It has a backlit monitor, and it’s telemetric. This means that users can read the data without difficulty, and it can connect to a wireless heart rate chest strap for accurate HR data output.  

The wireless heart rate chest strap may or may not come with the package. This depends on the vendor you are buying from. So, ensure you find out if the wireless HR chest strap comes with it or not.  

But there are HR sensors on the handlebar that can still be used for monitoring the heart rate. Nevertheless, it does not provide data as accurately as a wireless HR chest strap would. When using the HR sensors on the handlebar, you must consistently grasp them firmly to provide the desired result.  

The monitor tracks workout stats such as Time, Speed, Distance, Calories Burned, and Heart Rate. The blue LCD screen is energy-saving. The display is pretty clear to discern because of the backlight.  

There are also 12 pre-programmed workouts, 2 User Profiles, and 1 Custom Workout for each User Profile.   

The console needs to be powered by electricity for it to function; hence, the bike comes with a 6ft power cord.  

The function buttons on the console include Settings, User Profiles, Pause/Resume, Navigation, Start/Enter, Reset, Race Mode (this allows you to select Manual, Random, Hill, EZ incline, Sports Training mode), Goal Workouts, and Energy Saver On/Off. 

Generally, the console is easy to use, and there is also a manual that will enable you to utilize the functions on the console correctly.  

The console has a 3-year warranty coverage.  

Track Connect 2.0  

This is the advanced and optional console you may opt for. This has more functions than the Go Console.  

This console offers 4 User Profiles, 3 Custom Workouts per Profile, 15 Preset Workouts, Bluetooth Compatible for a wireless HR chest strap, and can sync to Life Fitness and other apps using FTMS.  

The Bluetooth connectivity will also allow you to connect to your preferred devices, which include Apple Watch or Samsung Galaxy Watch, Apple or Android smartphones, and much more. The console is obviously loaded with functions that would inspire and enable you to achieve your fitness goals.  

These are some of the buttons on the console; Energy Saver On/Off, USB Port, Goal (use to select Calories, Distance, or Target Heart Rate), Custom, HIIT, User Profile, Stop/Reset, Navigation, Start/Enter, Navigation, Pause/Resume, Settings, Advanced (allows you to select, Fit Test, Sports Training, Marathon Mode, or Resistance workouts) Heart Rate Training, and much more.  

The console is also powered by electricity and has 3 years warranty coverage.  

The display is brilliantly clear.  

Ordinarily, if you opt for the Track Connect 2.0 console, the wireless HR chest strap should be included in the package. But do your due diligence to verify if it does before purchasing from a vendor.  

Accessory 

The Life Fitness C1 Upright Bike comes with a smartphone/tablet holder that allows you to keep a magazine or a device in an eye-level position for better viewing and entertainment purposes. It also has a cup holder that is within reach for proper maintenance of hydration during a workout session.  

Storage 

The unit does not require special storage space. It can be stored in the corner of a room or in a garage. A storage space with measurements of 4’ long by 2’ wide can accommodate it, and it can also be easily moved around via the rolling wheels at the front base.  

Pros/Features Overview 

• Sturdy, stable, and durable 

• Supports 300 lbs./136 kg maximum user weight capacity 

• Supports 5’ to 6’4’’ tall individuals 

• Operation is smooth and quiet  

• Console is telemetric 

• Backlit LCD monitor tracks workout stats such as Time, Distance, Calories Burned, and Heart Rate 

• Track Connect 2.0 console is Bluetooth enabled and can connect to Apple and Samsung Galaxy smartwatches, and Apple and Android smartphones 

• It is lightweight and compact 

• Track Connect 2.0 is compatible with Life Fitness and other workout apps 

• Has several preset workout programs depending on the type of console being used, User Profiles, Custom Workouts, and more 

• Wireless HR chest strap compatible 

• Contact EKG HR Sensors available 

• 20 adjustable magnetic resistance levels 

• Self-leveling pedals and adjustable seat 

• Easy to assemble 

• Maintenance required is minimal 

• Tablet and cup holders included 

• Fairly warranty 

• Handlebar foam coated and 2-way adjustable 

• Suitable for improving overall physical fitness and rehab 

Cons 

• Does not have a step-through design 

• The seat may not be comfortable 

• The price might be on the high side  

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Product Dimensions & Specifications 

• Length: 45’’ 

• Width: 27’’ 

• Height: 56’’ 

• Assembled Weight: 116 lbs./52.6 kg 

• Shipping Dimensions: N/A 

• Maximum Weight Capacity: 300 lbs./136 kg 

• Supported User Height: 5’-6’4’’ 

• Frame; Steel 

• Drive: Belt 

• Resistance System: MagneitSystem: Magnetic with 20 adjustable levels 

• Console: Go Console or Track Connect 2.0 

• Monitor: Backlit 

• Wireless HR compatible: Yes 

• HR Contact Grip: Yes 

• Preset Workout Program: Yes 

• Seat: 2-way adjustable 

• Handlebar: Padded with race-style design 

• Workout App Connectivity: Life Fitness and other apps (Track Connect 2.0 Console) 

• Tablet Holder: Yes 

• Cup Holder: Yes 

Shipping 

The Life Fitness C1 Upright Bike is shipped out in a box. It usually arrives in a couple of days. However, the duration of delivery time depends on the vendor.  

Assembly 

Assembling this unit will take anywhere from one to two hours, depending on how good you are at using tools.  

It is not complicated to assemble; essentially, the core of the bike comes preassembled. You only need to attach other parts such as the seat and handlebar posts, the seat, handlebar, front and rear stabilizers, and the console.   

Of course, part of the assembly time also includes unpacking the package.  

Maintenance 

Generally, Indoor fitness equipment such as the Life Fitness C1 Upright Bike needs minimal maintenance. It is more of precautionary measures than actual maintenance. What this means is that it needs to be stored in an area that is dry, clean, and cool. Examine the parts before and after workouts to ensure they are tight and in good working condition.  

See the user manual for further instructions.  

Final Verdict 

The Life Fitness C1 Upright Bike is recommendable, and it gets the job done. Its pros outweigh its cons and thus make it a good buy.  

If you are looking forward to having fun while reaching your fitness goals, then this unit might be worth looking at.