In the third and final part of our exercise bike guide, we take a closer look at ergometers.
An ergometer, also known as an exercise bike with induction resistance, generally sits in the higher price bracket.
The biggest difference from the models in part two lies in the resistance.
An exercise bike with induction works on wattage. And it's about more than simply reading the wattage off the display: on an ergometer you can set a wattage level yourself. There's some misconception about this. Certain EMS exercise bikes do display the power delivered in watts, but still work with resistance levels.
Ergometers usually start at 25 watts. That said, our range also includes the Toorx BRX-3000, which starts at 10 watts. That low entry resistance is the ergometer's greatest advantage. Twenty-five watts or lower is virtually infinitely variable, and remarkably smooth with it. In almost every case, anyone will be able to pedal at this level. Ideal for older users, for rehabilitation, or simply for turning the legs over. Ergometers have several other major advantages too.
The advantages of exercise bikes with an ergometer function
- The wattage is adjustable in 5-watt steps. Because the difference between, say, 35 and 40 watts isn't large, it's ideal for rebuilding your strength, muscles and movement. That way you can improve week by week.
- Anyone who has been through rehabilitation will have been told to cycle at 60 watts. On most ergometers you can set the bike to keep you pedalling at 60 watts continuously.
- For heart-rate-based sessions you can train more accurately thanks to those small increments. Whether you're after fat burning, better fitness or rehabilitation, heart rate training on your exercise bike is worth considering.
- Do you want to train several times a week, or do your joints trouble you easily? Then you'll be surprised how smoothly an ergometer rides. Induction produces a pleasant transmission that gives you the best possible cycling experience.
What determines the price of an ergometer?
As with the computer-controlled exercise bikes using a magnetic brake, the price is largely determined by what your console can do. Do you want to ride in the virtual world of Ride Social as well? Or would you rather not have too many options on the display?
If the latter, a model such as the Finnlo Varon XTR II is a good option.
With ergometers you're often already in the price bracket of the semi-professional versions – suitable for physiotherapists, personal trainers, corporate fitness and hotels.
Any questions? Leave a comment below or email us at sales@nrgfitness.nl
