In this comparison of Exerpeutic 400 XL vs Progear 190 they are put up against each other and contrasted to see how they measure up against each other.
They do have a number of similarities, as you’d expect, with them both being able to be folded up and put out of the way when not in use.
The riding position is better described as semi-recumbent than recumbent – which is halfway between upright and recumbent.
The big question is whether the difference between justify the price difference between the two models.
By looking at the differences between the two will answer this question.
First, we look at a quick overview/review of them both.
Exerpeutic 400 XL Folding Recumbent Bike
This popular bike is liked for its comfort and smooth ride. It fits a wide range of people between 5ft 2 ins and 6 ft 2 ins and people up to a weight of 300 lbs.
The 8 level magnetic resistance and belt drive is very quiet. It allows you to exercise while watching TV or on the phone without turning up the volume. It also won’t disturb others in the house.
Most people like the riding position although it is not a fully recumbent and find it has a low impact on their knees and joints.
It comes with a basic console which measures distance, speed, calories, time and also monitor your heart rate when you grip the pulse sensors in the handlebars beside the seat.
Customers like the smooth and consistent ride that allows them to concentrate on their exercising when they want. Read more about the bike in my review here
Progear 190 Compact Recumbent Bike
This bike also caters for people between 5 ft 2 ins and 6 ft 2 ins tall but for people up to a maximum weight of 275 lbs.
It has magnetic resistance that is smooth and easy to operate that goes from easy to moderately hard. There are 8 levels. It is operated using the tension knob just below the monitor so you do need to lean forward to operate it (as with the Exerpeutic).
It also has a belt drive and is very quiet so you can exercise when you want and not disturb others in the house.
The basic console monitors distance, speed, time calories burned and heart rate when you hold the handlebars at the side of the seat.
Most customer find they get a good solid ride that is stable and sturdy to allow them to get on with and enjoy their exercising. Read the full review here
How They Differ – The Facts
Rather than talk about the similarities I’m focusing just on the differences which are likely to be what determine which is the right bike for you – there is a comparison table below which gives more information
Dimensions. Exerpeutic 400 XL is the smaller bike with it have a slightly smaller footprint in use with it being 5 inches shorter in length. It doesn’t fold down as small being taller by 9 inches.
Bike Weight. There is only a small difference in weight with the Exerpeutic 400XL being 9 lbs heavier at 47 lbs.
Handlebar Width. Both bikes have the handlebars at the side of the seat. The Progear 190 are slightly wider apart at 22 inches and the Exerpeutic is 21 inches.
Seat. The Exerpeutic 400 XL has a better contoured seat for supporting the sit bones while you exercise. The Progear 190 is a flat seat that is padded but will be harder on your sit bones. Both can be made more comfortable with the help of a gel seat cover.
User Weight. The Exerpeutic 400XL can accommodate people up to 300 lbs whereas the Progear 190 can be used by people up to 275 lbs
Console Position. The console position of the Progear 190 with it lying more flat can be harder to see without moving forward slightly
Resistance. Both have 8 levels and goes from light to moderate on both. The Exerpeutic 400 XL is from customer feedback is bit harder level at Level 8 than the ProGear 190
What About The Difference In Price
When I checked the price of both models the Progear 190 & Exerpeutic 400 XL had a similar price.
Which Is The Right Bike For You
The Exerpeutic 400XL is for me the better buy even though slightly more expensive because of the better customer experience in terms of comfort, slightly better resistance, heavier bike and having more options to get it to fit a wider range of people properly.
But if budget is a constraint the Progear 190 Compact Recumbent is a good bike and give you a good exercising experience.
Up Against Each Other Side By Side
In this table you can see both folding exercise bikes next to each other line by line comparing their features, specifications and dimensions to get a full picture of how match up.
| Feature | Exerpeutic 400 XL | Progear 190 |
|---|---|---|
| Resistance Type | Magnetic | Magnetic |
| Resistance Levels | 8 | 8 |
| Pedals | Straps | Straps |
| Weighted Flywheel | No | No |
| Bike Weight | 47 lbs | 38 lbs |
| Max User Weight | 300 lbs | 275 lbs |
| Min User Height | 5 ft 2 ins | 5 ft 2 ins |
| Max User Height | 6 ft 2 ins | 6 ft 2 ins |
| Handlebars Adjustability | N/A | N/A |
| Seat Adjustability | Vertical | Vertical |
| Use Dimensions | Height 46 ins Width 19 ins Length 33 ins | Height 44 ins Width 21 ins Length 38 ins |
| Folded Dimensions | Height 54 ins Width 17 ins Length 20 ins | Height 45 ins Width 21 ins Length 19 ins |
| Drive Type | Belt | Belt |
| Accessories | None | None |
| Console | Yes | Yes |
| Heart Rate Sensors | Yes | Yes |
| Frame Construction | Steel | Steel |
| Gear | Fixed | Fixed |
| Transport Wheels | Yes | Yes |
| Quiet | Yes | Yes |
| Back Support | Yes | Yes |
I hope the information has helped you come to a buying decision on the folding exercise bike that is right for you. It would be great to hear what you think.
are the feet straps adjustable?
Yes the straps adjust on both bikes.