I really loved that this item was both a bike and an elliptical machine, at such an awesome price. I wasn't very certain that it would be sturdy, etc because it is so inexpensive. But I am pleasantly surprised. However, the only reason that I am rating this four stars is that it took me three hours to put together. The directions are extremely hard to follow.
I had the product for 2 weeks before I started having problems with it. Last night I had to take it apart in order to tight some parts that were shaking and making the most irritating noises, and I am talking about parts you would not touch on the initial assembly, those were manufacturing issues. I had to repeat the process 5 times in the few weeks I had it. So unless you have good handyman skills, get something else. It is a nice looking product but as I started using, it really showed its poor quality. If I had the chance I would return it. Not worth your money.
Compared to other non-commercial exercise bikes, the Phoenix 99608 is an excellent buy. It was easy to assemble, well constructed, and operates very quietly. It was exactly as advertised. I expect it will provide many hours of hassle-free use. Don't expect to use the bike for hours at a time - the seat padding is not thick enough for that. My only other concern is that the seat may not be able to be adjusted appropriately for a person with short legs. Those observations not withstanding, I would recommend it to anyone who wants an inexpensive home exercise bike.
