Body Rider Magnetic Elliptical Trainer

Utilizing a patented design which allows you to exercise with a smooth, no-impact motion, this elliptical trainer from Body Rider offers the benefits of a cardio workout without undue stress on your joints. The unit provides whisper-quiet operation--great for home exercise--and features transport wheels for easy storage and moving. Vary your workouts with eight levels of adjustable magnetic resistance with the turn of a dial, and even target your upper body using the double handlebars. The LCD exercise console offers an easy-to-read, easy-to-use interface and allows you to track your workout status and heart rate.

Features:

Elliptical motion design technology
Smooth, magnetic adjustable resistance
Includes hand pulse/heart rate monitor
Upper body workout capability
Pass-through frame design for comfort
Electronic monitor displays speed, time, distance, pulse, and calories burned
Assembled Dimensions: 47-5/8 by 28 by 64-5/8 inches (L x W x H)
Assembled Weight: 71.6 pounds

Owner Reviews, Ratings, Comments and Criticism
This type of product was something the wife wanted, so I did a bit of research and noted that this product seemed to be well reviewed for the price. My concern was paying much more for a product that might not end up being used much. As it turns out, I like it too, and can work it into my daily routine, so I doubt it not being used will be an issue. As to the product, it arrived only in the product box, not any additional shipping container. The box was slightly damaged, but the product was not damaged at all. The various parts were easy to organize, and assembly took just over an hour. It helped a great deal that all the nuts and bolts were attached to a piece of cardboard and held in place by shrink-wrap, with numbers identifying each part. The only mistake I made in assembly was not realizing that the "feet" needed to have the bolt inserted on the side with the depression. Other than that, everything was very clear in the instructions. That said, be warned. Although returns are easy with Amazon, I have no idea how you would ever disassemble and repackage this device for shipment back. I think you're more likely to simply have to sell it on Craigslist or some such thing, or perhaps take it to the UPS Store to be professionally packed. As to the product itself, my only complaint would be that although the movement is fairly smooth, it could probably be smoother. Smoother is probably what you get if you pay 2-3 times more money. Also, at times it does creak, but I haven't tried to address that by re-tightening some of the connections. That issue simply isn't that bad. The magnetic resistance system works well. The electronic display is pretty well thought out, automatically turning on when you start and turning off a few minutes after you're done. It can be set to alternate between the various readings (time, distance, etc.). The pulse meter requires that you use the stationary bars, and doesn't seem to give that accurate of readings unless you hold it just right. Some sort of a device that attaches to your body by a cord would be preferable, but apparently not available. Overall this seems like a sturdy, well-designed product, and a good value. Edit: After using this a few weeks I did tighten up the connections and that helped the creaking significantly. Also with more use I really like the electronic display. It's very no-hassle. You don't even have to turn it on or off, and if you stop for a while it also stops counting the minutes. I think it automatically turns off after about three minutes, so that long of a wait would reset your timer. Anyway, I'm still impressed with the product.