Horizon Fitness GR3 Indoor Cycle Review
The Horizon GR3 is a great budget option for on road cyclists looking to train indoors during the offseason.
Horizon Fitness GR3 Indoor Cycle Specs
| Rating | 7.8 |
|---|---|
| Type | Indoor |
| Console display | 5" LCD |
| Compact storage | No |
| Resistance | infinitely variable |
| Seat type | Road Bike, Adjustable |
| Programs | 3 |
| Flywheel | 48 lbs. |
| Weight capacity | 286 Lbs |
| Dimensions | 49" L x 19" W x 46" H |
Why You Should Trust Our Reviews
Horizon has maintained a spot in the affordable indoor cycle category for all the right reasons. Hitting the market in 2019, the GR3 indoor cycle targets the value-focused corner of the market. Although it’s now a discontinued model, it remains available at various online retailers, or you might pick one up as a used model from a friend. When in production, it had a price tag of less than $500, so it’s always been very easy on the pocketbook. It might not be bleeding edge in terms of tech, but it remains well-equipped and well-built considering its affordable sticker price.
That said, with a used model, you’ll definitely want to check out the gear from tip to top. If a new model is what you’re seeking though, check out the ProForm Studio Pro 22 we’ve reviewed here.
The Horizon Fitness GR3 does not come with a massive HD display, nor does it come with a slew of interactive training options. That said, it’s one of a few models out there that trades flashy tech for robust construction—a trade that appeals for many in the entry-level indoor cycle market. There’s less to worry about fixing or fussing with.
The Horizon GR3 isn’t entirely devoid of tech, mind you. It’s clean and thoughtful console offers up a simple backlit LCD display, showing RPM, distance traveled, calories burned, heart rate, and elapsed time. Effectively this covers all the bases you could want from your console. There are programs available for High Intensity Interval Training, Speed Intervals, and Heart Rate Intervals, but generally speaking this is more of a manual-control focused exercise bike.
From a ride comfort standpoint, Horizon once again focused on achieving road bike ergonomics with the GR3 indoor cycle. Its seat is 2-way adjustable, and its handlebars adjust vertically. You do not get forward adjustment or tilt adjustment on the bars, so very short and very tall riders might struggle to find the optimal positioning on this one. Unfortunately this is more or less par for the course in the entry-level space, so this isn’t much of a strike against the GR3.
The Great
- 10-year Frame Warranty. Though more standard on higher spec bikes, this kind of backing is impressive when we’re talking about an indoor cycle costing less than $500.
- True To Road Cycling Ergonomics. Designed with avid cyclists in mind, the Horizon GR3 is built to feel close to a road bike when exercising in your own home, from its multi-position handlebar grips down to its road bike saddle.
- Interchangeable Pedals: Pedals with toe cages are provided. Riders can add their own Shimano combo pedals or others if desired. This fitness machine works with any standard outdoor bike pedals.
- Heavy Flywheel. As a general rule, the heavier the flywheel the smoother the ride, and at 48 pounds the flywheel of the GR3 is on the hefty side, especially in the affordable end of the indoor cycle spectrum.
- Advanced Glow Ride System. A clever 3-color lighting system on the display console of the GR3 indoor cycle delivers real-time feedback on your ride performance, ensuring that you can quickly and easily monitor whether or not you’re on track with your speed and resistance, rather than having to glance down at specific data output.
- Wireless Heart Rate Monitoring. Rather than relying on the heart rate monitors in its grips, this bike is compatible with Polar wireless heart rate monitors, delivering more accurate data than grip monitors typically can.
- Design Simplicity. Because this is a relatively low-tech bike, there’s little in the way of things that could go wrong/need repair over time.
The Not-So-Great
- Discontinued Model: Since it’s a discontinued model, new parts might be tough to come by. You’ll definitely want to inspect the bike before purchase.
- One Year Labor Warranty. The labor warranty on this bike is relatively low at just one year. While this is fairly ‘standard’ in the industry for many pieces of exercise equipment, it’s a shame because if something should go wrong after that first year, you will be on the hook to pay labor costs.
- Friction Resistance. Again a common practice in this price bracket, the Horizon GR3 uses a friction pad resistance system rather than the contactless magnetic systems seen on more expensive indoor cycles.
WHO SHOULD RIDE THE HORIZON FITNESS GR3 INDOOR CYCLE?
Unlike other exercise bikes, this unit is specifically geared towards those who are avid cyclists to begin with. if you’re an absolute rookie looking to get in shape, you’ll likely find the seat uncomfortable and the lack of programs frustrating. If you’re a regular rider on the other hand, you’ll appreciate the effort that went into its design and construction, not to mention its super affordable sticker price.
The Bottom Line
Though it comes with an entry-level sticker price, the Horizon Fitness GR3 indoor cycle is not for your convention beginners when it comes to getting in shape. Cyclists will love it, whereas those that are all about having the latest and greatest tech are likely to find it somewhat lacking in that respect.
It’s a bike that’s built for longevity, with the only real wearable item being its friction brake—something that can be replaced easily and affordably when the time comes.
