The Lifespan C5i is an All New Upright Bike

The new C5i replaces the previous C3i, with some new features and capabilities added to the mix. This is the first change in quite some time for LifeSpan, a company that tends to keep the same model names, even when they do upgrades.

Let's take a look at this new exercise bike and see how it compares to the previous model.

The Bike

The LifeSpan C5i retains the modern look and solid feel of its predecessor, with an improved console and some other small upgrades making it even more appealing.

It features a bright, multi-colored LCD display, multi grip handlebars, V-shape easy entry/exit and transport wheels.

Let's take a look at some of the other great specs...

The Lifespan C3i features: 

• 18-lb flywheel
• 16 levels of magnetic resistance
• Contact/Wireless heart rate
• Multicolor LCD display
• 34 built in workouts
• Oversized, padded seat
• User capacity: 400 lbs
• Dimensions: 40.5"L x 28"W x 56.5"H
• Warranty: Lifetime frame, 5 yrs parts, 2 yrs labor

The Buzz

The LifeSpan C5i upright is a nice improvement on the previous model.  The company kept all of the features that customers love, and added some upgrades and new features that are sure to be a hit.

For starters, they doubled the number of built in workouts to choose from, which is always a good thing.  The previous C3i had 17 workouts.  Here you have 34 broken down into weight loss, active living, sports training and heart rate control, as well as 2 custom programs that you can design yourself.

The console was improved as well, and has a cleaner look overall, with a nice bright screen and easy access buttons to change your resistance levels and program.

Newly added is Bluetooth capability, something missing on previous LifeSpan exercise bikes, which allows you to track and share your workout results via the Active Trac app.  This is a nice addition, and something that a lot of users appreciate these days.  It helps to motivate you as you see your results week after week, and you can proudly show it off to family and friends.

Other than that, no major changes on the C5i.  You have a nicely weighted flywheel for smooth operation, adjustable seat, 16 levels of magnetic resistance to challenge yourself, self balancing pedals, and a nice 400 lb. max weight capacity.

The bike is only 99 lbs, so it's relatively easy to move with the included transport wheels.  And it's self powered, so you don't have to place it close to an outlet in your workout space.  This gives you the freedom to put the LifeSpan C5i upright wherever you'd like.  Or even move it from one room to the next.

Another impressive feature, which is the case with most of the LifeSpan cardio equipment, is the impressive warranty that comes with the bike.  You get lifetime coverage on the frame, 5 years on parts and 2 years on labor, an upgrade from the 1 year labor on previous models.

This rock solid warranty speaks volumes about the quality of the C5i.  You'd be hard pressed to find this kind of coverage on a similarly priced, or even a more expensive, home exercise bike.  You can add additional coverage if you'd like, but here it's not really necessary.

Any downsides to the C5i upright?  Not really.  We've definitely seen some more advanced consoles, e.g. some of the NordicTrack exercise bikes have touch screen displays with interactive maps and other features...but you don't necessarily need a touch screen and the console on the LifeSpan has everything you need for a great workout.

LifeSpan C5i Upright - Final Thoughts

There's a lot to like about the new LifeSpan C5i upright exercise bike.  It is well built and well designed.  

It has a nice bright console, Bluetooth tracking capability, grip and wireless heart rate, 16 resistance levels and 34 built in workout programs.

You also get one of the best warranties in the business, and a hefty 400 lb. max weight capacity.  All of this for under $1000 when it's on sale.

If you're looking for a solid upright exercise bike for your home, this one is definitely worth considering.  If you need something even more commercial quality, take a look at the C7000i upright that the company offers.  But for most users, the C5i is the way to go.