Joroto X1S Review: A Sturdy but outdated exercise bike
While I would like to present the Joroto X1S indoor cycling bike as a sturdy option, it’s essential for me to first highlight a few factors in this review that might influence your decision.
Firstly, it’s important to know that the Joroto X1S employs an outdated friction resistance and chain drive system, which can require additional maintenance compared to modern alternatives that have magnetic resistance and belt transmission.
Additionally, the handlebars of this bike are poorly designed, being flat and causing an excessive forward tilt when reaching for the aero bars. These aspects may raise concerns for individuals seeking a seamless and hassle-free exercise experience. Specially if you are used to studio indoor cycling bikes that have ergonomic designs.
However, if the friction resistance, chain drive, and handlebar design do not pose significant issues for you, the Joroto X1S does offer some commendable features worth considering.
Featuring a triangle type frame, this indoor cycling bike ensures a well-balanced and stable workout platform, accommodating individuals of various sizes. The 35-pound flywheel further contributes to its stability, allowing for smooth transitions between easy and challenging exercises.
With the X1S, you can expect a consistent and comfortable riding experience, as the heavyweight flywheel guarantees a steady motion throughout your workout. Moreover, the 50mm thick tube frame enhances the bike’s overall stability.
One selling feature of the Joroto X1S is its large tablet holder which I hope was angle adjustable so I could get a better view of my tablet while I am the saddle.
Overall, the Joroto X1S exercise bike delivers a steady riding experience, considering its price point but it could have been smoother. While it may lack certain design elements, it serves as a decent option for those seeking a straightforward chain driven and frictional resistance base indoor cycling bike.
Joroto X1S Compared to other Joroto Indoor Bikes
| Name | Console | Transmission | Inseam | Capacity | Flywheel | Handlebars | Q.Factor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| JOROTO X4S | 3x4-inch backlit | Bluetooth, RPM, speed, resistance/load, heart rate, distance, time, and calories | Belt-Drive Magnetic (not motorised) | 29.5″ to 39″ | 330-Pound | 35-Lb (with sweat protection guard) | 4-Way Adjustable | 195 MM |
| JOROTO X3 | 2.5x2.5-inch no backlit | Speed, heart rate, distance, time, and calories | Belt-Drive Friction (not motorised) | 27.9″ to 36″ | 300-Pound | 45-Lb (with sweat protection guard) | 4-Way Adjustable | 190 MM |
| JOROTO X2Pro | 2x3-inch no backlit | Bluetooth, RPM, speed, resistance/load, heart rate, distance, time, and calories | Belt-Drive Magnetic (not motorised) | 27.5″ to 36.2″ | 300-Pound | 35-Lb (with sweat protection guard) | 4-Way Adjustable | 184 MM |
| JOROTO X2 | 2x2-inch no backlit | Speed, heart rate, distance, time, and calories | Belt-Drive Magnetic (not motorised) | 27.5″ to 36.2″ | 280-Pound | 35-Lb (NO sweat protection guard) | 4-Way Adjustable | 180 MM |
| JOROTO X1 | 2x2-inch no backlit | Speed, heart rate, distance, time, and calories | Chain-Drive Friction (not motorised) | 25.6″ to 35.4″ | 280-Pound | 35-Lb (NO sweat protection guard) | 2-Way Adjustable | 180 MM |
Joroto Fitness embarked on its journey with the Joroto X1s indoor cycling bike, which is still in production. However, the X1s faced certain limitations such as outdated friction resistance, a small 1×1″ console, and an uncomfortable handlebar design that compromised the rider’s cycling position. Recognizing these issues, Joroto began developing the improved Joroto X2 model.
The introduction of the Joroto X2 indoor bike marked a significant achievement due to its magnetic resistance, providing a virtually silent and maintenance-free cycling experience. However, it still featured an outdated dark console measuring only 2×1.5″ without any Bluetooth connectivity. To address this, Joroto released the Joroto X2 Pro, aiming to compete in the market more effectively.
In comparison to the X1 and X2 indoor cycling bikes, the Joroto X2 Pro — the model I personally tried and reviewed— incorporates several essential and beneficial features. Firstly, it boasts a larger 2×3 inch console, making it easier to monitor your progress. Even more notably, it includes Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for compatibility with heart rate monitors and indoor cycling applications.
Moreover, the X2 Pro offers enhanced exercise details beyond speed, distance, and heart rate, displaying RPM (cadence) and load (resistance percentage). These valuable metrics were previously absent in the X1 and X2 Joroto indoor cycling bikes.
Despite these significant improvements, Joroto Fitness has remarkably maintained an affordable price for the X2 Pro. In fact, the price has remained consistent, with the X1 previously priced at $350 and the X2 Pro still available at $350. This demonstrates Joroto’s commitment to fair pricing while continuously enhancing their indoor cycling bikes.
The latest model developed by Joroto is the X4S, which stands out as one of the best spin bikes I have tested under $1000. It features a precisely balanced flywheel, dipped handlebars that offer improved grip even during intense sweat-inducing workouts, Bluetooth compatibility for Zwift, dumbbell holders, and a superior console.
The Joroto X4S console boasts dimensions of 4×3 inches and is equipped with a backlit display, ensuring better visibility and providing more comprehensive details. Naturally, the addition of these features has led to a slight increase in price, but Joroto has maintained a reasonable pricing strategy, as always.
If your budget allows for an expenditure of approximately $550, I highly recommend considering the Joroto X4S over the X2 Pro due to its superior design and advanced features. Additionally, the X4S includes convenient accessories such as a bottle holder, phone holder, and tablet holder. However, if you prefer not to spend that much money, rest assured that the Joroto X2 Pro, priced at $350, offers excellent value as an indoor cycling bike.
It’s important to note that while the seat of these models can be adjusted in four ways, the handlebars only offer two-way adjustability. This limitation may pose a challenge for riders who fall outside the average height range, as it might be difficult to achieve an ideal fit and comfortable riding position.
Therefore, if you or any family members have specific height requirements and you can afford $50 more, I recommend exploring alternative indoor bikes from Joroto Sports and Fitness, particularly the X2 Pro indoor cycle. For a more comprehensive comparison of Joroto indoor cycling bikes, please refer to the provided detailed information in the table below.
Joroto X1 Comparable Alternative Exercise Bikes
As an indoor cycling instructor and a passionate reviewer of nearly 100 indoor bikes in the last 10 years, I strive to provide you with valuable insights into the best options available on the market. While the Joroto X1S is priced at $350, I must admit that it doesn’t quite live up to its price tag. Fear not, for I have two alternative recommendations that I personally endorse. Let’s dive into them.
Firstly, allow me to introduce the Niceday indoor bike. Priced slightly higher, this bike offers a range of impressive features that make it worth the extra investment. With a heavier 45 lb flywheel and a larger screen equipped with Bluetooth connectivity for platforms like Zwift and Peloton, the Niceday indoor bike takes your workout experience to the next level.
Its dual-sided pedals are a significant improvement over the Joroto X1S’s single-sided cage pedals because you have the option of using clip in shoes and gym shoes. Additionally, the Niceday bike utilizes a magnetic resistance system, which outperforms Joroto’s friction resistance.
The handlebars of the Niceday bike are superior, featuring additional handgrips and horizontal adjustment capabilities, unlike the Joroto X1S’s horizontally unadjustable handlebars.
Overall, the Niceday bike offers a sturdier build, ensuring long-lasting durability. Although it does come with a $100 higher price tag, the value it provides justifies the extra investment.
Now, if the Niceday bike is still beyond your budget, don’t worry. I have an excellent alternative that is both more affordable than the Joroto X1S and offers at least two superior features. Enter the Dmasun indoor cycling bike. Typically priced $100 lower than the Joroto at $250, this spin bike boasts a magnetic resistance system, ensuring smoother and more precise adjustments.
The handlebars of the Dmasun bike also come with horn and drop grips which offers a greater versatility and comfort during your workouts so you can change your hand position and avoid hand numbness during longer rides. Feel free to explore the Joroto X1 alternative options mentioned and choose the one that best suits your preferences and budget.
To assist you in navigating through this comprehensive Joroto X1S indoor cycling bike review, I’ve created a table of contents below for your convenience.
Niceday Indoor Cycling Bike
DMASUN Indoor Cycling Bike
Free shipping
1 new from$499.99as of December 3, 2023 10:28 am
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1 new from$249.991 usedfrom $247.49
as of December 3, 2023 10:28 am
- 【Quality Exercise Bike】The Niceday exercise bike has a 110LBS heavy-duty mainframe. The...
- 【High Speed Ratio】The Niceday stationary bike features a 45LBS solid flywheel. The 45CM diameter...
- 【Infinitely Variable Resistance】The double-sided cutting magnetic control technology brings...
- 【Diversified Internet Apps】The Niceday exercise bike is compatible with Peloton, Zwift, Kinomap,...
- DMASUN: DMASUN is the leading brand of fitness equipment you can truly trust, including a range...
- BEST SPINNING BIKE: Compared with other exercise bikes, it has bigger flywheel weight and higher...
- SIMPLE ASSEMBLY: DMASUN has been pursuing high quality and taking into account the troubles...
- HEALTHY CHOICES: The updated DMASUN stationary bike adopts magnet resistance. Compared with wool...
- Technical Information
- Joroto X1S specs
- X1S bike monitor
- Pedals and Q-factor
- The Joroto X1S flywheel
- X1S bike resistance technology
- Drive system
- Handlebars and seat
- Joroto X1S price and warranty
- Shipping and assembly
- Joroto X1S indoor cycling bike trainer pros
- Joroto X1S indoor cycling bike trainer cons
Technical Information:
Joroto X1S Specs:
- Height: 42.5″
- Width: 19.7″
- Length: 42.9″
- Transport Wheels: Yes
- Foot Levelers: Yes
- Bike Weight: 90-Pound
- Max User Weight: 280 Pounds
- Inseam Capacity: 25.6″ to 35.4″
- Shipping Weight: 100 Pounds
Featuring compact dimensions and large transport wheels, the Joroto X1S is easy to store and move from one place to another place in the house.
The 90 pounds steel frame capable of supporting up to 280 pounds user weight indicates the sturdiness of X1S Joroto bike. Unlike cheaply made bikes, this Joroto X1S indoor cycle has wide and heavy frame stabilizers to prevent rocking during workouts.
Additionally, the Joroto X1S stationary exercise bike has 4 adjustable feet levelers. They will help protect the floor and keep the bike stable on uneven gym floors.
But that is just the beginning of what this Joroto spin bike has to offer. The X1S indoor cycling bike trainer belt drive is coated to resist against corrosion. It also has a sweat resistance flywheel guard and durable belt box to minimize the maintenance.
On top of that, the X1S features a more durable construction compared to many other cheap residential use bikes. Therefore, if you are looking for a budget spin bike that can handle 1-2 hours daily use, the Joroto indoor cycling bike X1S is a good choice.
X1S Bike Monitor:
- X1S monitor displays the time, cal, speed, and distance (no RPM or watt).
- The monitor is not compatible with non-coded wireless HR straps.
- X1S monitor is non-backlit so it is hard to see the stats in low-light condition.
- Joroto X1S monitor is wired and it is not Bluetooth or ANT/+ enabled.
- The computer runs on batteries included.
The Joroto exercise bike X1S console is not compatible with wireless heart rate chest straps, but it does not have pulse sensors to allow you to stay within target heart rate training zones as you workout.
The X1S fitness monitor is basic which is common for the price. It doesn’t track the RPM and has a dark LCD monitor. The non-backlit monitor makes it difficult to see your spinning workout stats in the low-light condition. It is also not wireless which means the sensor on the flywheel sends data to the monitor via a wire. Therefore, if you not careful during the ride or when adjusting the handlebars, the wire can be crimped and cause maintenance.
Another con of the X1S indoor cycling bike is the lack of watts tracking which is completely understandable because this feature is available on spin bikes that cost $1000+. It also doesn’t have internal memory, Bluetooth or ANT/+ connectivity. Therefore, you can’t save daily workouts on the monitor or on spinning Apps.
However, there is an easy solution that enables you to save workout progress on the apps and also compete with other cyclists online. This simple solution includes a Wahoo RPM sensor. It cost $30 and is very popular among indoor cyclists. Search our website for Wahoo sensor and spin bike computer to learn more about this optional spin bike accessory.
Pedals and Q-factor:
- Joroto X1S exercise bike has single side toe cage pedals (no SPD elements).
- Toe pedal straps are adjustable to secure the feet during the ride.
- The size of Q-factor for this Joroto bike is 180 MM (very good).
- This indoor cycling bike is built with standard 9/16″ pedal thread.
Joroto X1S indoor cycling bike features thick and solid crank arms and toe cage pedals. Built and designed with high standard, the Joroto X1S exercise bike can support all spinning workouts including out of the saddle rides. Rest assured, the pedals and crank arms won’t snap off during intense out of the saddle spin workouts.
Unfortunately, the pedals are not SPD compatible which means if you want to use cycling shoes, you need to replace the pedals. but thankfully, this Joroto indoor bike has standard 9/16″ pedal thread size. So, you can replace its pedals with pretty much any clipless spin bike pedals (search this website for the best spin bike spd pedals).
The Q-factor, one of the most important features when buying indoor cycling bikes is proudly disclosed. It is 180MM which is narrower than I expected and that is a really good thing.
In case you are new to indoor cycling, the q factor is the horizontal distance between the two pedals. Wide q factors tend to keep riders’ feet too far apart which can cause injuries if you have narrow hips.
Joroto X1S Flywheel:
- Joroto X1S flywheel weighs 35 pounds to provide a smooth and quiet indoor exercise making your workouts more enjoyable and effective.
- The flywheel does not have a sweat protection guard.
- It has the fixed-wheel bidirectional flywheel system.
The Joroto indoor cycling bike X1S flywheel is well built weighing 35 pounds which is capable of providing smooth indoor cycling workouts with a large range of challenges to meet the needs of most riders.
It is also painted red and black which makes it look good, easy to clean and difficult to scratch. The polished steel around the perimeter of the flywheel and black/red coating frame gives the bike a great look.
Just like any other budget indoor cycling exercise bike, the X1S Joroto indoor cycling exercise bike is fixed-wheel. Meaning the flywheel moves and stops with the pedals which come with a pro and a con. While it allows you to pedal reverse and simulate different leg muscles, it doesn’t allow you to take a short break or jump off the bike until the flywheel completely stops.
Note: Freewheel bikes are more expensive. They work similarly to road bicycles. Meaning even after you stop pedaling, the flywheel still turns. So, you can jump off the bike in case of emergency or take a few second brakes whenever you want, without having to wait for the flywheel to stop.
X1S Bike Resistance Technology:
- JOROTO X1S exercise bike has friction resistance system.
- The felt pad is made of heat resistant material.
- X1S stationary exercise bike comes with manually knob adjustment system (not electronically).
- Unfortunately, resistance system along with the flywheel doesn’t have a sweat protection cover (felt-pad wears out quicker).
- Joroto X1S resistance knob also works as an emergency brake.
This Joroto X1s indoor cycling bike has unlimited resistance system. While it is not as quiet as a magnetic resistance bike, it provides infinite resistance.
Unlike magnetic bikes, it doesn’t have certain levels of resistance. Each knob turn provides a challenging workout to suit the needs of indoor cyclists and mimics real road riding. So, no matter your fitness level, you can always make the workout more intense with an extra turn on the knob.
When buying the Joroto X1S indoor cycling bike, you don’t need to worry about the quality of the braking pads. They are made of heat-tolerant materials capable of providing a relatively quiet and smooth ride.
But what you need to be careful is the liquid that might drop on the flywheel and the resistance braking pads. This indoor bike doesn’t have a flywheel/resistance protection guard. Therefore, excessive sweating can make the resistance pads wet and cause noise and maintenance. Hopefully, in the future version, they will make a sweat protection guard for this bike as it is vital to friction spin bikes.
Overall, the noise level of this Joroto bike is not too loud, but it is not as quiet as the magnetic resistance system, which is why I suggest you consider a magnetic spin bike if you want to ride with less noise. (Search for the best magnetic spin bikes in this website).
Drive System:
- The new model of Joroto X1S cycle has a belt-drive mechanism. The old model has a chain-drive mechanism.
- The belt is quiet and requires little maintenance while the chain is noisy and requires lubrication and extra maintenance/adjustment.
- The gear ratio is not disclosed but estimated 2:1.
If you have been reading this JOROTO X1S review, you already know this spin bike is belt-driven. But let’s see why it is better than chain drive bikes.
Belt system doesn’t have hundreds of tiny rings and pieces like a chine do. Therefore, it has less maintenance and lasts longer. But that is not the only benefit of belt drive spin bikes.
Featuring belt makes the bike quieter and eliminates the need for oiling. And if the belt is high quality like the one on this Joroto cycling bike, it doesn’t stretch. So, you don’t need to deal with adjustment tools often.
Looking at the size of the belt-ring and 35-pound flywheel, I believe this Joroto indoor cycling exercise bike has a very little gear ratio which means the flywheel turns slowly and with more intensity, especially the very first seconds of exercise.
If you prefer a higher gear ratio and faster flywheel which is more similar to road bikes, I suggest the Keiser and Life Fitness IC4, 5, 6, 7, 8 bikes. They are several times more expensive than Joroto X1S but provide up to 12:1 gear ratio. Meaning for each complete pedal stride, the flywheel turns 12 times.
Handlebars and Seat:
- The model of X1S bike has horizontally flat handlebar which is uncomfortable. But the new model of X1S is equipped with 30-degree angled handlebars (more comfortable).
- Fully adjustable seat making it possible for people of many body sizes to comfortably exercise.
- Stainless steel handlebar and seat posts.
- Handlebars are only 2-way (up/down) adjustable.
- The Joroto X1S bike includes a built-in tablet holder on the handlebars.
The JOROTO X1S indoor cycling bike trainer features an adjustable seat that moves fore and aft as well as up and down so that many trainees can acquire a safe custom fit.
However, unlike other JOROTO spin bikes, the X1S handlebars are only vertically adjustable which is the biggest design con I can find for this stationary bike. The lack of adjustment might prevent some users from acquiring a safe and comfortable spinning position.
As for the seat, the company gives you two options to chose from (wide seat or narrow seat). They are both padded and comfortable to support the long rides. I suggest you chose the wide seat if your hips are wide and you are heavier side. But if you are lightweight and average narrow hips, the narrow seat is better because it causes less friction.
When buying the Joroto X1S indoor cycling bike, you don’t necessarily need a seat cover or seat replacement. However, if you want to change the seat, the replacements are widely available on the market because this bike uses the standard seat clamp size.
To make up for the lack of adjustment, there is an easy to reach and large tablet holders built-into the handlebars to allow you to stay entertained during the exercise.
Joroto X1S Price and Warranty:
- Joroto X1-S indoor cycling bike price is around $350.
- The X1S indoor cycle includes residential warranty:
- 1-Year on the frame and all the parts.
- This bike doesn’t come with a labor warranty.
- You can forward any support and/or warranty inquiries to JOROTO Fitness at support@jorotofitness.com.
Depending on where you buy this Jorot X1 spin bike the price might be different. On Amazon U.S, you can purchase the X1S indoor cycle for under $350.
On Amazon U.S. you may also find the Joroto belt drive X1 spinning bike discounted sometimes, but that doesn’t happen often since there is a high demand for Jorot spin bikes in general.
X1 comes with one year warranty for the entire bike which is better than what some other brands offer (90-days) but not as good as what Schwinn Fitness, Sole Fitness or BodyCraft offer (you can search for Schwinn, BodyCraft and Sole spin bikes on this website).
Shipping and Assembly:
- The Joroto X1s manual and assembly tools are included.
- Joroto X1S assembly is fairly easy with only a few parts to install.
- This bike includes free shipping in the U.S.
- X1S ships in one box that weighs around 100 pounds.
- Expert assembly is not included.
The X1S comes with free shipping and in one big heavy box. Therefore, we suggest you ask the carrier to help you bring the bike inside or unbox the bike outside and bring inside in tow pieces.
Aside from the bike, the Joroto X1S assembly tools and manuals are also included in the box. So, you wouldn’t need to buy, borrow or use other tools for assembly of X1S bike.
The X1S indoor bike comes about 80% assembled, which helps you save $90 on assembly cost. Remaining assembly is relatively straight-forward but still might take you about an hour.
Assembly manual is very easy to follow as long as you pay attention to detail and have little mechanical common sense. It is recommended to do the assembly with 2 people.
The parts that you need to assembly are leg stabilizers, pedals, seat, handlebars and computer. The flywheel, drive mechanism and crank arms come pre-assembled.
Joroto X1S Indoor Cycling Bike Trainer Pros:
High quality:
This Joroto X1S indoor bike guarantees a smooth, natural feel and workout experience easy on the joints, like all other Joroto indoor cycling bikes. While this spin bike lacks the bells and whistles and customizable options of other spin bikes at the same or lower price point, it does come with a solid great looking construction and heavy flywheel.
Accessories:
Although lacking in adjustable or customizable features, this Joroto X1S indoor cycle is built with the user in mind with a comfortable seat, and a large tablet holder angled correctly within an arm’s reach.
- With 35 pounds heavy flywheel the Joroto X1s provides a smooth ride and effectively mimics the feel of a road bike.
- Featuring a high-quality belt-driven system that helps create a quiet and low-maintenance workout (new model).
- Simple pro design and glossy finish that makes any room look nice and elegant.
- Durable transport wheels for easy indoor portability.
- 4 Adjustable base levelers for a steady and stable ride on all types of floors.
- Joroto spin bike X1S features an easy assembly process.
- 4-Way adjustable seat combined with multi-grip handlebars provides a comfortable ride for most riders.
- Equipped with a heavy-duty steel frame system with a 280 pounds weight capacity.
- The bike also comes with a multimedia stand where you can put your iPad or tablet.
Joroto X1S Indoor Cycling Bike Trainer Cons:
Handlebars:
The major design con of X1S indoor cycling bike by Joroto is its lack of adjustable handlebars. While the handlebars can be adjusted horizontally, they are not vertically adjustable. Therefore, some riders may not find the perfect bike fit on this X1S Joroto spin bike. A few spin bikes such as X2 indoor bike at similar price tag come with superior micro-adjustability.
Frictions resistance
Joroto X1S indoor bike creates a bit of noise and requires more maintenance than magnetic resistance spin bikes. Because the brake pad comes in direct contact with the flywheel and wears out after a while. So, if you live in a small apartment or want to ride as noiseless as possible, I suggest a magnetic spin bike (search our website for the best magnetic spin bikes). Note: Sometimes serious outdoors biker and those who take their indoor exercise routine seriously prefer friction resistance because it offers unlimited resistance which is perfect for high-intensity workouts.
- No Bluetooth or ANT/+ connectivity.
- Not a water bottle holder.
- JOROTO X1S does not read the RPM and heart rate.
- No SPD elements for clipless cycling shoes.
Hi there, I'm Sayed Hamed Hosseiny, the founder and one of the authors at yourexercisebike.com (YEB). I am a former indoor cycling instructor and personal trainer with nearly 20 years of experience. With a passion for indoor cycling, I have spent years designing cycling parts, repairing, and importing exercise bikes. All the articles, tips, guides, reviews, and comparisons on YourExerciseBike.com (YEB) reflect my personal opinion and expertise in the field. I'm excited to share my knowledge with fellow exercise bike enthusiasts and help people find reliable indoor cycling information and the best exercise bike for their needs. If you have any questions or suggestion, you can contact me at sayed@yourexercisebike.com.
