Matrix R50 Recumbent Bike Review

The R50 leads the Matrix recumbent bike series for home gyms. Riders relax into its oversized high-backed seat, but they can take exercise seriously…

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Matrix R50 Recumbent Bike Specs

Rating9
TypeRecumbent
Console display3 Console Options
ResistanceInduction 1 - 30 Levels
Seat typeComfort Arc
ProgramsVaries
FlywheelN/A
Weight capacity350
Dimensions63 L x 25.6 W x 48.4 H
  • Matrix R50
    left side view of Matrix R50
  • Matrix R50 Console
    console and screen on the Matrix R50
  • Matrix R50 Adjustment
    Recline bar of Matrix R50 Recumbent Bike
  • Matrix R50 Side
    Side profile view of Matrix R50 Recumbent Bike
  • Matrix R50 Water Bottle Holder
    Water bottle holder on the Matrix R50 Recumbent Bike

Matrix R50 Recumbent Bike Review

The R50 leads the Matrix recumbent bike series for home gyms. Riders relax into its oversized high-backed seat, but they can take exercise seriously…

Matrix R50 Recumbent Bike Specs

Rating9
TypeRecumbent
Console display3 Console Options
ResistanceInduction 1 - 30 Levels
Seat typeComfort Arc
ProgramsVaries
FlywheelN/A
Weight capacity350
Dimensions63 L x 25.6 W x 48.4 H

Why You Should Trust Our Reviews

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1200+ hours spent reviewing
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130+ indoor bikes reviewed
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20 data points evaluated per bike

Recumbent bike shoppers can depend on one option from Matrix Fitness: the Matrix R50. Matrix is best known for commercial fitness equipment, but the R50 is a best buy in their home exercise bike collection. It’s not only the brand’s best recumbent bike, but stands out from Matrix’s competitors. The R50 is the first recumbent exercise bike to use induction braking, which is especially smooth, responsive, and precise compared to other options. This high-end bike also features a deluxe high-backed seat, customized electronics, and a compact frame compared to other recumbent bikes. An excellent end-to-end warranty package ensures that buyers can choose this ride with confidence.

The R50’s frame can be paired with one of three consoles. Choose an exercise-only console (plus reading rack) or train with extra features such as integrated speakers, mobile apps, and a web browser. Matrix consoles also differ in their display screens and workout programming. One option has a traditional one-color LED, but the top console (the XIR) offers a 10″ touch screen, a web browser, integrated video workouts, an app for eight-week training programs, and much more.

The features of the Matrix R50 are detailed below.


The Great

  • High Quality Frame: The Matrix R50 has a nearly 175 pound (80 kg) frame under lifetime warranty. The frame is designed for easy access and stability. Compact for a recumbent bike frame, it requires just 63″ x 26″ of floor space.
  • Induction Braking: The Matrix R50 features induction braking for ultra-smooth and quiet transitioning between resistance levels. Compared to the majority of other high quality recumbent exercise bikes that use magnetic braking, the R50 responds quickly to user commands. Trainees also get 30 resistance levels rather than the usual 20.
  • Mesh Seat: A high-backed seat is key to the comfort of a recumbent cycle. The mesh design of the R50 bike seat allows airflow along with lumbar support. The bike seat is oversized for comfort, but is interchangeable with other seats if it doesn’t work for you.
  • Interchangeable Pedals: Pedals on Matrix bikes are self-balancing, which makes mounts and dismounts easier. They can be replaced with standard bike pedals if desired.
  • Heart Rate Monitors: Matrix recumbent bikes support both contact and wireless heart rate monitoring. Contact pulse sensors are built into the R50 handlebars, and all three consoles have wireless receivers.
  • Console Choice: Matrix home exercise bikes are compatible with the XR, XER and XIR consoles. The simplest option is the XR console with a 8.5″ LCD, five classic workout programs, wireless data sharing, and Passport readiness for viewing immersive Virtual Active video on a big screen TV (more info below). The mid-level console option is the XER with 6″ touch screen, ten standard workouts, built-in video, Passport readiness, and Sprint8 training programs described below. On top of that, the Matrix XER has apps for Facebook, Hulu, YouTube, and more. The top Matrix R50 bike console is the XIR with 10″ touch screen. It has the same features as the XER but a larger screen along with one additional preset workout program, and a web browser.
  • Virtual Active: Virtual outdoor bike tours are supported by all Matrix R50 consoles. Virtual Active presents high-definition “bike’s eye” views of beautiful destinations around the world. The views and audio respond to the rider’s pace to help create immersive experiences. Virtual Active videos are built into the XER and XIR consoles and viewable on their touch screens. Another option with all R50 bike consoles is watching Virtual Active on your own TV. The larger the screen, the more immersive the experience. Using Virtual Active with a TV requires a Passport Media Player (not included).
  • Sprint8: The Sprint8 training app is built into select Matrix consoles. Sprint8 delivers eight-week high intensity interval training (HIIT) and includes a test to help trainees choose their best challenge level. These HIIT workouts bring results very quickly. Bike just 20 minutes 3-4 times per week for less fat and more lean muscle mass along with an improved cholesterol reading.
  • Data Tracking:The Matrix R50 has ViaFit connectivity for easy data sharing with other apps and fitness tools. Additionally, the Matrix XER and XIR have MyFitnessPal.
  • Audio: Speakers are integrated with the XER and XIR consoles. They are 3W and 5W, respectively. Each of these consoles can connect to a MP3 player.
  • Water Bottle Holder: Each Matrix bike console has a water bottle holder.
  • High Capacity: Matrix recumbent exercise bikes have 350 pound (159 kg) weight capacities.
  • Compact: A big selling point for the R50 is its small size. This recumbent bike measures just 63″ long x 25.6″ wide x 48.4″ high (160 x 65 x 123 cm).
  • Warranty: The bike’s base price of $2199 includes lifetime protection for the frame, seven years for parts, and two years for labor. Each console has a five-year warranty.




The Not-So-Great

  • No Cooling Fans: The R50 doesn’t have a workout fan.
  • Not Portable: This bike is remarkably compact for a recumbent ride, but it isn’t portable or foldable.




Who Should Ride the Matrix R50 Stationary Bike?
The Matrix R50 recumbent bike is ideal for trainees at any skill level who want to respect their knees while getting a great cardio workout. The high-end induction resistance of this bike can meet the gentle needs of physical rehabilitation while also providing the powerful resistance preferred by trainees in better condition.

The Bottom Line

The Matrix R50 is a favorite option in its price class for riders at all ability levels. It’s customizable in several ways and carries a best-in-class warranty. This is one of the best recumbent bikes on the market if you can afford it. Just keep in mind that once the machine is set up, you won’t be moving it anywhere without considerable effort.

Matrix R50 Recumbent Bike Specs

Rating9
TypeRecumbent
Console display3 Console Options
ResistanceInduction 1 - 30 Levels
Seat typeComfort Arc
ProgramsVaries
FlywheelN/A
Weight capacity350
Dimensions63 L x 25.6 W x 48.4 H

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