I just got this, so this initial review is based on assembly and first impressions. For reference I got the magnetic version that doesn't have to be plugged into an electrical outlet to operate. I read in the description of the plug-in version that it would stop after 30 minutes or so of continuous use, which won't work for me as I plan to use it for longer than that.
First impressions are very good – the unit seems quite sturdy and well-made. There are very few parts to assemble – just the two "legs" and two pedals. It took less than 5 minutes to assemble, but more on that below. First impressions of the pedal action and resistance after assembly: I'm very pleasantly surprised. I intended to use this on light resistance for several hours every morning while working at my computer, and I was a bit worried I wouldn't be able to find the right level of resistance. This isn't the case – I find that my ideal setting is a few clicks from the highest setting, which leaves room either way for adjustment. I don't think I'll be able to build giant leg muscles with this machine – even the highest level is pretty tame, however for boosting my heart rate I think it's perfect. My goal was to replicate a somewhat brisk walking heart rate: mission accomplished. I'll edit my review after using the machine for a while.
Regarding the assembly: Upon opening the package, I took one look at the provided "tools" and immediately threw them in the garbage. I used my own open-ended wrenches and adjustable crescent wrench for the largest nut with zero difficulty. I say zero difficulty because I READ THE DIRECTIONS. They clearly state you have to thread the LEFT pedal on COUNTER-clockwise. This is the opposite of how you'll try it without reading the instructions, and I believe this accounts for 99.9 percent of the difficulty other reviewers complain about. So if you have your own wrenches (13mm, 15mm, and a large adjustable/vise grip/channel-lock type), AND ARE WILLING TO READ the instructions, you will not have any trouble putting this thing together.
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