How Good is the Merach MR-S19 Recumbent Bike? 

After looking into the Merach MR-S19 Recumbent Bike I discovered it may not be suitable for everyone. 

For instance, if you are a taller individual (6’ tall and above) it may not be entirely good for you because some users have argued that they barely fit in.  

Again, some users have complained about the effectiveness of the ressitance. They asserted that from level 1 to 6 there was not much difference in workout difficulty, until the 7^th level. Then the 8^th level appears too difficult for them to start with.  

In other words, they needed to start from levels 3 to 4 to build strength and stamina and then proceed to higher resistance levels but that was not the case. So, they were frustrated.  

That said, these complaints come from minority customers because the majority of the reviews are positive. So, I thought I should just lay it out here for you to make an informed decision on whether or not to purchase.  

In case you are open to looking up other options, then the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-4850SMART Recumbent Bike might be worth your time.  

Otherwise, click here to peek at the best price of the Merach MR-S19 Recumbent Bike on Amazon.  

The Frame & Construction

Let’s delve into the construction and features of the Merach MR-S19 Recumbent Bike.  

This unit has a light commercial construction with a steel frame and a curvy upright bar/console mast. It is designed to be used at home or in an office. It can hold up to 330 lbs./149.6 kg user weight.  

Everyone wants to exercise without having to struggle with balance. Thus, this recumbent bike has a base framework that includes front and rear cylindrical steel stabilizers with rubber end caps for optimum stability.  

Moreover, its stability is further cemented by its assembled weight of 97 lbs./44 kg. Having said that, placing the unit on a protective rubber mat could be a smart move.  

Now, it might be a concern to some prospective users that they might have difficulty moving the exercise machine around due to its weight. Well, most of the weight is concentrated at the front part of the unit and there are transport wheels incorporated to the front base and a lifting handle at the rear base designed to enable users to easily lift and move the equipment around the room.  

The overall assembled dimensions of the Merach MR-S19 are 48.03’’ long by 28.62’’ wide by 46.46’’ high. So, a workout area with measurements of 4’ (122 cm) in length by 2’4’’ (72 cm) in width plus clearance of 2’ on both sides of the machine will be required.  

Users can easily step in and out of the bike due to its step-thru design and the adjustable seat handlebar. This is especially good for the elderly and those who are physically impaired.  

The Seat of the Merach MR-S19 Recumbent Bike 

The seat on the Merach MR-S19 Recumbent Bike has multiple layered soft paddings that are intended to make it comfortable. However, the use of a recumbent gel seat cover can improve its overall comfort.  

The backrest is contoured and meshed for air breathability and reliable back support that reduces pressure on the spine.  

The seat is horizontally adjustable; that is forward and backward. It can be adjusted between 8 different stages so that users of different heights can be accommodated. Users with 28.35’’-35.43’’ inseam heights can comfortably fit in.  

The backrest cannot independently be adjusted.  

You can adjust the seat to a suitable position while seated via the adjustment lever on the right side. 

The Handlebar 

The unit is equipped with 2 sets of handlebars. One set is situated at the console upright bar, while the other one is on the seat. These are designed to enable users to exercise in different forms or patterns.  

They can choose to ride while they grasp the seat handles or the ones on the console mast.  

These handlebars have frosted foam coverings that guarantee comfortable and firm grips. 

The seat handlebar is adjustable while the one at the front is not.

Moreover, heart rate sensors are incorporated into the seat handlebar so that when users hold them during a workout their heart rate will be read and transmitted to the LCD monitor.  

The Pedals  

The bike comes with a set of standard pedals. They have a textured surface with an adjustable safety strap and are made of plastic with a metallic core.  

They are to be ridden with regular gym shoes or barefoot. 

The pedals can accommodate different foot sizes securely and comfortably.  

The Drive 

The Merach MR-S19 Recumbent Bike has a belt drive system that is shrouded in a plastic covering, as is the case with most recumbent bikes. Although, it has a dual-belt drive system. In other words, the drive system consists of double anti-stretch belts, pulleys, and a 6.6 lbs./3 kg flywheel.  

Hence, its operation is smooth, quiet, and stable.  

Exercising while watching a workout video, a TV show, or listening to music is feasible.  

Also, using the bike around people won’t cause a nuisance or disturb them in any way.  

The belt drive system does not also need to be lubricated or adjusted periodically. It will suffice to say that it is maintenance-free. 

The Resistance 

The Merach MR-S19 Recumbent Bike resistance is magnetic, and there are 8 adjustable levels. It can manually be adjusted from levels 1 to 8 via the tension adjustment lever. To increase or decrease the resistance, push the tension lever backward or forward respectively.  

That said, the workout difficulties the resistance system provides are not adequate according to some users, especially the first few resistance levels. For instance, resistance levels 1 to 6 provide little to no resistance. 

It is not clear if this problem is a manufacturing defect that only affected some of the recumbent bikes.  

However, it is noteworthy to mention that the majority of users have no issues with the resistance being weak or problematic.  

Generally, a resistance system such as this provides workout challenges that can help users lose weight, promote blood circulation, and improve overall physical fitness. It is not for those who wish to experience extreme workout difficulties.  

As it is pointed out, the recumbent bike is good for elderly folks and therapeutic purposes.  

The Console 

This recumbent bike has a basic console that is however Bluetooth enabled. It can connect to a Merach workout app which is free by the way. This offers access to workout videos, tracking of workout progress in real-time, and more. It is also possible to connect to third-party workout apps such as Kinomap.  

The good thing about a good workout app is that it helps you to add fun to your workout sessions as gear towards achieving your fitness goals.  

The console features a nonbacklit LCD monitor. It tracks users’ workout progress by displaying data such as Time, Distance, Speed, Calories Burned, and Heart Rate. These workout data are displayed one at a time because the digital monitor cannot display them all at once.  

The data display is large and clear; thus, users can see their workout metrics. However, since the monitor is nonbacklit it will be difficult to view it in a room with poor illumination.  

There are three easy-to-use navigation buttons on the console which include Reset, Mode, and Set.  

The bike itself is manually operatable (it doesn’t need to be plugged into a power source for it to be operational) and the monitor is battery-powered. It comes with 2 AAA batteries.  

Accessory 

A water bottle holder is attached to the side of the upright console bar to keep water handy for hydration purposes.  

Also, a tablet holder is built into the console. This is intended to help users keep their smartphone devices in view as they work out. They can decide to watch a workout or entertainment video while they are actively exercising on the machine.  

The only problem though is that any device placed on the tablet holder will likely block the view of the LCD monitor.  

Storage 

The Merach MR-S19 Recumbent Bike is easy to store.  

Users can easily move it around via the transport wheels and the lifting handle that is situated at the rear base.  

The storage space that it requires would be 4’ (122 cm) in length by 2’4’’ (72 cm).  

Approval Rating 

Despite the resistance issue pointed out in this review, the unit still maintains a positive approval rating on Amazon. The reviews are from verified purchase customers.   

Therefore, the resistance problem is likely more of a manufacturing defect than a general issue.  

Pros/Features Overview 

• Durably and sturdily built 
• No stability issue 
• It is built to support up to 330 lbs./149.6 kg maximum user weight capacity
• Supports users with inseam heights of 28.35’’-35.43’’ 
• Provides low-impact cardiovascular workouts 
• Operation is smooth, quiet, and vibration-free 
• The maintenance requirement is minimal 
• It is compatible with Merach and other third-party workout apps; users can experience enjoyable and productive workouts 
• The multi-layered padded seat with ventilated backrest offers maximum comfort to the butt and the spine 
• LCD monitor tracks Time, Distance, Speed, Calories-Burned, and Heart Rate 
• Frosted handlebars provide firm and comfortable grips 
• Textured pedals with adjustable safety traps securely and comfortably accommodate different foot sizes  
• Easy to move around the room; thanks to the lifting handle and the transport wheels 
• EKG HR contact grips enable users to hit and maintain their target heart rate zone 
• Easy assembly 
• A water bottle holder is included 
• A tablet holder is included 

Cons 

• No built-in workout programs 
• The console is basic with a nonbacklit LCD monitor 
• A device placed on the tablet holder blocks the view of the LCD monitor 
• There is a concern by a few customers that the resistance levels are not as effective  
• Low warranty 

Buy it Now at the Best Price from Amazon 

Warranty 

• 1 Year limited warranty 

Product Dimensions & Specifications 

• Length: 48.03’’ 
• Width: 28.62’’ 
• Height: 46.46’’ 
• Shipping Dimensions: 51’’ L x 25’’ W x 11’’ H 
• Net Weight: <97 lbs./44 kg 
• Gross Weight: 97 lbs./44 kg 
• Maximum User Weight Capacity: 330 lbs./149.6 kg 
• Supported Inseam Heights: 28.35’’-35.43’’ 
• Frame: Steel 
• Drive: Belt 
• Resistance: Manual magnetic with 8 adjustable levels 
• Seat: 2-way adjustable with meshed backrest 
• Handlebar: 2 sets (seat & front) with frosted covering 
• Pedals: Self-leveling and textured with adjustable safety straps 
• Console: Basic with non-backlit LCD monitor 
• Bluetooth: Yes, compatible with Merach and third-party workout apps 
• Transport Wheels: Yes 
• Water Bottle Holder: Yes 
• Tablet Holder: Yes 

Shipping 

The Merach MR-S19 Recumbent Bike is shipped out in a box that weighs 97 lbs./44 kg with dimensions of 51’’ long by 25’’ wide by 11’’ high.  

The shipping process commences immediately after placing an order, especially from Amazon. The vendor tries to make delivery as fast as possible. On a normal day, it takes a couple of days to receive the delivery of this product.  

Amazon offers free shipping.  

Assembly 

The assembly requires that you attach the pedals, console mast, console, stabilizers, and seat to the core unit.  

This process usually takes 1 hour max.  

Tools needed for the assembly are included in the package, and so also the instruction manual that guides you through it.  

Maintenance 

The maintenance requirement is generic; thus, no special skill is required.  

Keep the recumbent bike clean after every workout session. Store it in a cool, dry, and clean area.  

Also, ensure that you regularly examine the parts. This will guarantee that the parts are tight and in good working condition.  

Conclusion 

The Merach MR-S19 Recumbent Bike is intended to be used at home or in the office. It enables users, especially the elderly and those recovering from physical impairment to improve their overall physical fitness.  

It supports 330 lbs./149.6 kg maximum user weight and inseam heights of 28.35’’-35.43’’.