Upright exercise bikes don't come much cheaper than the Phoenix 99605, and while we were impressed with its overall build quality, its performance was disappointing. The 2.5-inch tubular steel used to construct the 99605 is obviously designed for long life, and while the bike appears sturdy, we detected some wobbling and annoying noises during operation. Exercisers who weigh close to the bike's maximum recommended user weight limit of 250 pounds will find that the 99605 tends to rock from side to side slightly during vigorous pedaling. Tall users may also find the ergonomics of the bike's design a little too cramped for extended use.

Since this is such a basic exercise bike, operation couldn't be simpler; jump on, start pedaling and manually select one of eight different resistance levels using the dial control. The magnetic resistance works smoothly enough, although many competing exercise bikes offer much quieter operation. The ride is comfortable for a piece of home exercise equipment in this price range. The adjustable foot straps keep your feet comfortably in control of the pedals for a stable ride. The 99605 features a large, easy to read LCD console that displays workout information such as time exercised, distance traveled, speed, estimated calories burned and pulse. The latter is obtained by holding the heart rate sensors built into the bike's handlebars.

There are no preset exercise programs built into the Phoenix 99605, which limits the variety of workout routines possible with this upright bike. Instead, users are limited to selecting one of the eight resistance levels. Serious athletes and those who are easily bored by repetitive exercise should look at higher-end bikes instead of this model.

The integrated transportation wheels help to move the 99605, which weighs in at 59 pounds. This model's warranty is about what you would expect from an exercise bike at this price point; the frame is covered for one year, the parts for only 90 days.

The Phoenix 99605 is adequate for a very basic, no frills cardio workout, but by investing a little more money, it's possible to obtain a higher-quality exercise bike with more workout options.


Pros: Inexpensive, magnetic resistance, heart rate monitor, easy to read LCD
Cons: Some noise during operation, no workout programs, cheap parts

Warranty
1 year, frame; 90 days, parts