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The utility and function-focused C1 Lifecycle is a little more go than show.
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The clean and effective Go Console of the base model C1.
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The Track Connect console adds further functionality over its base-model sibling.
Life Fitness C1 Lifecycle Exercise Bike Review
The Life Fitness C1 Lifecycle Exercise Bike is a sturdy and well-executed offering in the mid-tier segment. Where it falls short in cutting-edge tech,…
Life Fitness C1 Lifecycle Exercise Bike Specs
| Rating | 8 |
|---|---|
| Type | Upright |
| Console display | LCD Monitor |
| Compact storage | No |
| Resistance | 20 |
| Seat type | Adjustable Cushioned |
| Programs | 12, +2 Custom (16, +12 Custom w/ Track Connect Console) |
| Flywheel | Perimeter-weighted |
| Weight capacity | 300 lbs |
| Dimensions | 45" L x 27" W x 56" H |
Why You Should Trust Our Reviews
If you’ve spent any time in your local gym over the years, the logo and branding of the Life Fitness Lifecycle C1 Exercise Bike is likely to be at least a little bit familiar. The brand has been around since the ’60s, and you may be surprised to learn that the original Lifecycle was actually the first piece of electronic fitness equipment ever created. Since then the brand has grown substantially, and is one of the go-to equipment suppliers of equipment to commercial gyms around the globe. While their commercial equipment come with a relatively significant price tag, their in-home offerings are often quite smartly priced, not to mention loaded with a healthy volume of features.
The C1 Lifecycle Exercise Bike is the brand’s entry-point into the stationary bike segment, though as its mid-tier price tag (starting from $1,399) would dictate, it isn’t shy on quality and features. What’s most interesting is the offering of two different levels of consoles. The standard GO Console offers the usual array of pre-programmed workouts, and an intuitive and easy to use LCD display. Stepping up to the Track Connect console ($1,849) adds Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to link the bike up to apps like Nike+, Garmin and MyFitnessPal through Wahoo’s RunFit, as well as to fitness tracking devices from Apple, Jawbone and Fitbit by enabling proximity login on the LFconnect app.
The Great
- Sturdy Construction Despite Weight: Weighing a modest 105 lbs, the C1 Lifecycle feels sturdy even when pushing at a vigorous pace.
- Built-In Heartrate Monitoring: A standard in commercial bikes, track your heartrate thanks to onboard sensors found in its grips.
- Quiet Operation: Even at high resistance, the C1 is known for being whisper quiet—especially when compared to older equipment from the brand.
- Extensive Tracking Options: Connection to several fitness apps makes exercise tracking effortless.
- 20 Resistance Levels: Ample resistance setting options for a variety of riding preferences and styles.
- Great Warranty: A lifetime warranty on the frame, 3 years on parts, and 1 year on labor ensures this bike will last for years.
- Brand Reputation: As one of the oldest in the game, owner support is generally seamless.
The Not-So-Great
- Limited Seat Adjustment: Its seat can only be adjusted vertically.
- Seat Comfort Complaints: While not 100% of the time, the C1 Lifecycle occasionally gets unfavorable reviews for having an uncomfortable saddle.
- Old School Design: A minor gripe, but if aesthetics are important to you, the C1 looks rather dated and lackluster (but it gets the job done).
WHO SHOULD RIDE THE LIFE FITNESS C1 LIFECYCLE?
The Life Fitness C1 Lifecycle is a prime candidate for the all-around fitness junkie who want value and durability above all. It’s not a bargain-basement bike, but it’s also built to last you for years. It’s not the most flashy, nor is it top of the line in terms of tech, but (especially with the Track Connect console) it still has a few tricks up its sleeve and will get the job done.
The Bottom Line
The Life Fitness C1 Lifecycle Exercise Bike isn’t for the tech and design obsessed by any stretch, but it’s built like a tank, and easily capable of keeping up with the competition. There’s a reason so many gyms have turned to the brand, and if their bikes can survive countless hours of run time in a gym, you can imagine the C1 will hold up just fine. If you have a more, let’s say delicate posterior, and require extra cushy seating for your workouts, you may want to look elsewhere, though any average rider should fare just fine on the C1 overall.
