Are you one of those people who sits at a desk all day? Does a busy family life mean that you have no time for a workout before or after work? If so, then maybe it’s time to switch up your notion of what it means to workout and incorporate an exercise bike into your daily life. But how are you going to do this if you’ve got no time?
The DeskCycle 2 is designed for sitting workers and provides a cardiovascular workout that encourages healthy blood circulation. It can also help with weight loss and improving muscle tone. With the DeskCycle 2, you have the potential to get paid while you work-out! If this sounds good, read on to get the lowdown on the DeskCycle 2.
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About the DeskCycle 2
The DeskCycle2 is produced by 3D innovations LLC and is an evolution of their original model, the DeskCycle. 3-D innovations LLC were established in 1999 and consider themselves to be leaders in the fields of fitness, education and “exergaming”.
The DeskCycle2 seeks to address a modern problem that is sweeping across the civilised world. We are spending far too much time sitting and this is causing a myriad of health problems.
The DeskCycle 2 in theory enables owners to continue to move and get a gentle workout in whilst they are seated at their desk – or on the couch in front of the TV for that matter!
You can view 3D Innovations LLC’s website for their DeskCycle here.
Features of the DeskCycle 2.
The DeskCycle 2 has an upgraded LCD display compared to its predecessor. This features large clear LCD text and has five basic functions to track speed, distance and calories burnt. This can also be detached to place on top of your desk so you can monitor your distance pedaled throughout the session.
Unlike the original DeskCycle the DeskCycle2 can be adjusted so that the maximum pedal height is either 9 or 10 inches, meaning that it should be able to be used under most workplace desks.
The DeskCycle 2 has 8 levels of magnetic resistance.
It weighs 10 kilograms and is 62cm in length, 51 cm wide and 31cm high.
DeskCycle 2: The Review
The Price
Firstly, let’s talk about the price.
At the time of writing (August 2021) the Desckycle 2 is available in the US for around $210. In the UK it comes in at around £180.
That’s a lot of money for something which may be considered an ancillary piece of fitness equipment.
It’s also around four times more expensive than other desk bikes that are available. So what makes the DeskCycle 2 worthy of your. Hard-earned cash?
The Build & Pedals
Well, it’s a sturdy, well-made machine that appears to be capable of giving at least 5 years of daily use without issue. It features a clever drive system that ensures a very smooth pedaling experience – similar to that which you would expect from a full sized mid-range exercise bike.
The pedals themselves are generously sized and comfortable when in use. They also feature straps to secure your feet in place.
The adjustability of the frame means that you should be able to find a comfortable pedaling position under most desks. Furthermore, the grips on the base of the unit prevent slippage, even on hardwood floors. So you should be able to utilize the harder resistance settings without any issues.
Resistance
Speaking of resistance, this comes in the form of magnetic resistance which offers a near silent experience when in use. The resistance is adjusted by way of a dial mounted on the base of the unit, meaning if you want to change it mid-workout, you’ll need to stop pedaling to reach down below your desk to change the setting.
At this price point and for this type of machine, it would’ve been great if the resistance was electronically selectable and if there were preset programs that included a warm up, increasing resistance and a cool-down.
That may be overkill for a machine whose basic remit is to encourage office workers to keep their legs moving, but it would’ve been a useful addition to the features.
The range of resistance is good however, although at the hardest settings there is a degree of rocking of the machine which betrays it’s otherwise robust build quality.
Computer
One feature I do appreciate is the detachable LCD display. Whilst the information it displays is nothing exciting (speed, time, distance and calories), it’s good that you can pop it on your desk and keep an eye on how much ground you’ve covered.
Aftersale Service
Owners report that support from the manufacturer is good, although one owner of a 5-year-old model was disappointed to find that the manufacturer couldn’t replace and repair a broken drive belt, resulting in the machine being discarded.
So let’s take these findings and summarize them into our list of what’s good and what’s bad.
See the DeskCycle2 in Use
If you want to see the DeskCycle 2 in action, check this video of a brilliant elderly gentleman putting it through its paces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the DeskCycle2 sync with the FitBit app?
Yes, it now syncs and users report that it works well.
Can the pedals be replaced?
Yes, but when removing the old pedals, make sure you unscrew them in the opposite direction than when you initially fitted them. The left pedal unscrews clockwise and the right pedal unscrews counterclockwise.
Does the display show MPH?
Yes, the display shows speed in MPH as well as RPM, time, calories burnt and distance covered.
I’m very overweight, will the DeskCycle 2 be suitable for me?
Yes! Your weight is supported by the chair you are sitting on and not the DeskCycle 2. Users are advised not to stand on the machine as that is not what it was designed for.
I am restricted in the type of chair I must sit in when using the DeskCycle 2?
No. You can sit in any type of chair or sofa and should be able to find a comfortable position for pedalling.
Doesn’t using the DeskCycle 2 distract you when working?
Everybody is different, but there are literally hundreds of reports from users online stating that they have no problem at all working while using the DeskCycle 2.
Can you use the DeskCycle 2 on your arms?
Yes, at just 10kg in weight, the machine is light enough that you can place the machine on a desk and exercise your arms.
What if I find I have a problem with the DeskCycle 2 after purchase?
You can contact the manufacturer at support@3dinnovations.com. They encourage owners to get in touch if they experience any problems.
Does the DeskCycle2 sync with the FitBit app?
Yes, it now syncs and users report that it works well.
Can the pedals be replaced?
Yes, but when removing the old pedals, make sure you unscrew them in the opposite direction than when you initially fitted them. The left pedal unscrews clockwise and the right pedal unscrews counterclockwise.
Does the display show MPH?
Yes, the display shows speed in MPH as well as RPM, time, calories burnt and distance covered.
I’m very overweight, will the DeskCycle 2 be suitable for me?
Yes! Your weight is supported by the chair you are sitting on and not the DeskCycle 2. Users are advised not to stand on the machine as that it not what it was designed for.
I am restricted in the type of chair I must sit in when using the DeskCycle 2?
No. You can sit in any type of chair or sofa and should be able to find a comfortable position for pedalling.
Doesn’t using the DeskCycle 2 distract you when working?
Everybody is different, but there are literally hundreds of reports from users online stating that they have no problem at all working while using the DeskCycle 2.
Can you use the DeskCycle 2 on your arms?
Yes, at just 10kg in weight, the machine is light enough that you can place the machine on a desk and exercise your arms.
What if I find I have a problem with the DeskCycle 2 after purchase?
You can contact the manufacturer at support@3dinnovations.com. They encourage owners to get in touch if they experience any problems.
MySmallSpaceWorkouts Verdict on The DeskCycle 2
The DeskCycle 2 is an excellent fitness machine in that it delivers on its mission of enabling you to exercise while working. It provides a convenient way to increase your activity levels throughout the day.
As good as the machine is though, it’s certainly not a bargain. However, given the glowing reviews and the many reports of users who have enjoyed years of use out of their DeskCycles, we would still recommend selecting the DeskCycle 2 over the cheaper models from rival brands.
From another perspective, however, the DeskCycle 2 could be considered excellent value:
Statistics show that sedentary lifestyles are slowly killing us and taking steps such as using a DeskCycle2 can help you avoid becoming one of those statistics. You can’t put a price on saving your own life.
This review has looked closely at the DeskCycle2 but if you’re still not sure whether this machine is for you, then why not read our
>>> in-depth look at Desk Bikes and whether they are effective <<<
If you own a DeskCycle 2 I’d love to hear from you and learn whether it’s helping you to keep the pounds off and improve your health.
