Price: £299
Buy From: Fitness Superstore

Ratings (out of 5)
Overall Rating: 4
Build Quality: 3
Ease of use: 3
Console Features: 5
Comfort: 4
Value for Money: 5

The C301 is an entry level exercise bike from York’s Diamond range.  Rated as a class A ergometer, the 301 is electronically calibrated so that the amount of effort you use can be accurately measured.

As with all exercise cycles, comfort is of paramount importance so the large, ergo, extra padded saddle provided is a welcome addition and will easily cater for users of all sizes.

It is full height adjustable with York’s rapid adjust mechanism and can also be moved forward and backwards to provide the optimum desired riding position.  The pedals are one touch, self-levelling and include ratchet style straps for easy adjustment.  The handlebars are also adjustable with a full tilt rotation, using a simple locking mechanism.

It is a fairly typical size for a mid range cycle at 106cm long by 59cm wide and at just 36kg in weight, the C301 is portable too, utilising the transport wheels positioned on the stabilisers at the front of the bike.  The product’s robustness hasn’t been comprised as a result either with a class leading 150kg (23.5 stone) maximum user capacity.

The resistance system is computer controlled magnetic braking, with 16 levels available which should present a challenge to all but the fittest individuals.  The console is loaded with features, presented in a large 3 colour, backlit LCD display.  Feedback of time, speed, distance, calories, heart rate, watts, even BMI/body fat and room temperature is shown although the accuracy of the BMI/body fat calculator is debatable.

There are 22 programs including 12 preset, 4 heart rate control, 1 user defined, fitness tests and up to 9 user profiles.  Heart rate is measured by hand grip pulse sensors or an optional Polar T31 wireless chest strap can be purchased for more accurate feedback. Finding this level of sophistication supplied on a bike at this level is impressive and I cannot imagine that even the most motivational challenged individuals will run out of options.

There is even a towel rail, book stand and water bottle included for good measure.  The all round build quality seems pretty good, and is reflected by York supplying an extended 3 year parts and labour warranty once you have registered the cycle with them.

PROS

• Very adjustable
• Comfortable and robust
• Loads of console features

CONS

• Not a huge amount of resistance for fitter individuals

In summary then, you will be hard pressed to find an exercise bike with more features included at this price.  The C301 is comfortable, adjustable and compact which will tick all the right boxes for most.  If you are a fitness enthusiast then you might consider the higher spec model C302 from the same range which has an EMS braking system to supply significantly more resistance.

Price: £299
Buy From: Fitness Superstore