Keiser M3i Review – Great Quality But Not Smart

As experts in the field, we have tried and meticulously evaluated the Keiser M3i to provide you with a comprehensive review. Let’s delve into the standout features of this remarkable Keiser indoor bike and later I will show you a few smarter alternative indoor bikes you might want to consider.

In terms of performance, the Keiser M3i excels in various categories. With a Q-Factor of 197 mm (equivalent to 7.75 inches), it offers optimal pedal spacing for a comfortable riding experience unless you are an elite road cyclist and used to narrower q-factors.

It has Poly-V Belt drive mechanism which is all one single piece that ensures smooth and efficient power transfer. Moreover, its impressive warranty of 5 years on the frame and 3 years on mechanical parts demonstrates the Keiser’s commitment to durability.

One of the key distinguishing factors of the Keiser M3i that makes it appealing to some but dealbreaker to ther is its manually adjustable magnetic resistance system with 24 levels. The lever/shaft handle makes resistance adjustments seamless especially compared to traditional knobs that need continues twisting. It’s an outdated system compared to motorised system because it doesn’t auto-resistance. But it also has its advantages that I will go over later.

On another note, the Keiser M3i bike features a smart backlit console that goes dim when there is light in the room so it saves battery. It also displays essential metrics such as time, gear level, distance, speed, odometer, RPM, watts, heart rate, and calories burned.

The Keiser M3i goes above and beyond its competitors with several notable advantages. Notably, it stands out for its exceptional quality, proudly made in the USA. Additionally, its whisper-quiet operation sets it apart from other magnetic indoor bikes, so you get to have a peaceful workout environment.

When considering the benefits and drawbacks, our first hand experience revealed that the Keiser M3i’s superior build quality and quiet operation are clear advantages. On the downside, it is important to note that the Keiser M3i is one of the higher-priced options in the Keiser indoor cycle exercise bike lineup.

I know its high price is worth it because Keiser M3i delivers outstanding performance. Its magnetic resistance, adjustable features (including horizontal and vertical adjustments), and exceptional quality contribute to an unparalleled riding experience.

Furthermore, the Keiser M3i’s Bluetooth connectivity, compatible with various cycling apps like Zwift and Peloton, allows for a seamless integration of technology.

The Keiser M3i’s design have a significant impact on user’s comfort. Its V-shape frame adjust to fit literally everyone from below average short to the tallest cyclists. The sport saddle with foam padding ensures comfortable long rides, although wearing cycling shorts is recommended to prevent chafing.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Keiser M3i as the best overall magnetic resistance spin bike for both home use and commercial facilities. Its unrivaled quality, made-in-the-USA craftsmanship, three well maintained personal app, group cycling app, and instructor app, and exceptional after-sales support make it a top choice. With an ample range of resistance levels and versatile riding positions, the Keiser M3i guarantees a challenge for riders of all levels.

How Keiser M3i Evolved From Previous Models

Having personally experienced and tested the various models of Keiser indoor cycling bikes, including the Keiser M3, M3+, M3i, and even the short-lived M3ix, I can share insights into their evolution and improvements over time. I hope these firsthand experiences can help you make an informed decision when considering which Keiser indoor bike to purchase.

The Keiser M3, being the first model in the series, has a few drawbacks. The handlebars were only vertically adjustable, which meant that shorter riders struggled to find a comfortable riding position. Additionally, it doesn’t have Bluetooth connectivity, preventing users from connecting the bike to popular cycling apps like Zwift. Furthermore, it doesn’t include a media tray to keep your tablet and phone on the bike. But at $1699 it was always the cheapest of all Keiser M Series indoor bikes so it was still a famous affordable commercial quality spin bike.

However, in response to customer feedback and the need for improvement to compete in the market, Keiser introduced the M3+. This model addressed one of the major drawbacks of its predecessor by adding a horizontal handlebar adjustment feature. This upgrade allowed for a more personalized fit, accommodating riders of different sizes. But despite this improvement, the M3+ still lacked Bluetooth connectivity, which was a significant downside for individuals seeking interactive online cycling experiences. As a result, Keiser decided to discontinue the M3+ and introduce the Keiser M3i.

The Keiser M3i, in my opinion, is the most significant leap in the evolution of Keiser indoor cycling bikes. It not only addressed the limitations of its predecessors but also brought new and exciting features to the table.

The redesigned handlebars offers multiple ergonomic handgrip positions and allowed for horizontal adjustment, ensuring a comfortable and customized riding experience. I particularly appreciated the addition of a spacious media tray, providing a convenient spot to place my tablet or phone during workouts.

Most importantly, the M3i console is equipped with smart backlit technology and Bluetooth connectivity, enabling seamless integration with popular cycling apps. This connectivity feature opens up a whole new world of interactive training possibilities and allows to track your progress effortlessly.

Keiser also introduced another indoor cycling bike called the M3ix. However, it didn’t gain much traction. The pivoting handlebars, which were the primary selling point of the M3ix, turned out to be rather unnatural in practice because the whole was fixed but only the handlebars were leaning. This design flaw greatly limited its popularity among users.

Alternative Indoor Bikes to Consider

I understand the Keiser M3i may not be the perfect fit for everyone, especially if you prefer spin bikes with built-in HD screens or those smart spin bikes that can automatically adjust resistance while riding on platforms like Zwift and Peloton. Additionally, the Keiser M3i is priced at $1999, which may not be affordable for everyone looking for an indoor bike.

To cater to different needs and preferences, I’ve explored and found three Keiser M3i alternative indoor bikes that I believe might suit you better. Each of these options has its own unique set of features that make them ideal for specific types of users.

The Tacx Neo Bike is an excellent alternative for elite cyclists who are looking for a more advanced experience. Designed with front and rear gearing systems like a road bike, automatic magnetic resistance to replicate uphill and downhill cycling, gear shifters similar to those found on road bikes, and an extremely accurate right and left leg power meter, the Tacx Neo offers a more comprehensive setup. It also provides options for a narrower q-factor and multiple crank arm choices. This bike is particularly appealing to professional and semi-professional road cyclists who prefer not to use their road bikes on trainers at home.

For those seeking an adjustable tilting system, the NordicTrack S22i is a top contender. Unlike the Keiser M3i, which remains fixed on its frame, the NordicTrack S22i incorporates an electronic motor that tilts the bike forward to simulate downhill riding and backward to mimic uphill climbs. This feature adds a touch of realism to your indoor cycling experience. Additionally, the NordicTrack S22i boasts a generous 22″ touchscreen display that integrates seamlessly with the iFit application, giving you a 20″ larger screen compared to Keiser’s console.

Budget-conscious shoppers who desire automatic resistance should consider the Echelon EX5 as a worthy alternative to the Keiser M3i. With 33 levels of electronically and manually adjustable magnetic resistance, this bike allows for a wide range of intensity options. It can also change resistance automatically when used with platforms like Zwift and Peloton. The Echelon EX5 is priced at $999, which is significantly more affordable than the Keiser M3i, making it a more budget-friendly option without compromising on quality.

By exploring these alternatives, you can find an indoor bike that better suits your specific preferences and requirements. Whether you’re an elite cyclist, seeking an adjustable tilting system, or looking for a more budget-friendly option with automatic resistance, there are alternatives to the Keiser M3i that may better meet your needs.

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Echelon EX5

$899.99 $999.99

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NordicTrack S22i

$1,899.00

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Tacx Neo

$3,071.99

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Keiser M3i

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Keiser M3i Quantitative Measurements

Keiser M3i drive system

Keiser M3i features belt drive which gives this spin bike a very smooth ride. Belt drive also makes the bike very quiet and free from everyday maintenance. Unlike a chain drive that breaks more often, needs adjustment and lubrication.

The Keiser stationary bike features a single belt drive which requires zero adjustments. The belt transfers the power from a big pulley to the little pullies and finally turns the flywheel. This drive mechanism creates a high gear-ratio which is one of the reasons you won’t get the up and down pedal motion and you get the real road feel cycling despite the light-weighted flywheel.

The polly-V belt that comes with the Keiser M3i indoor bike has a pro and a con. In terms of power-transfer it is not as efficient as “Toothed/Carbon Belt” (because the polly-v belt is flat and not as grippy) but in terms of noise and smoothness, it is much quieter and smoother than “Toothed/Carbon Belt”. So, you need to deicide which one is more important to you (100% power efficiency or super smooth and quiet indoor cycling). If you are an elite rider and deicide to go for power efficiency, I would say consider buying the Life Fitness IC7, Schwinn AC Power, Stages SC3, or Spinner Chrono Power. They all come with Toothed/Carbon belt drive system. You can find the full review for each of these bikes on the site.

Keiser M3i indoor exercise bike console

In this Keiser M3i review you will learn everything there is to learn about this bike. Just like other Keiser M series spin bikes, you get a digital display with a light sensor at the top of the console that turns on the back-lit when the room is dark.

If the room light is good enough to read the number without the back-lit,
then it stays off. It’s a good feature for longer battery life.

The LCD display is not touch-screen and doesn’t have any buttons. As soon as the crank arms turn, you will be able to see the values of your workout.

There are four new features on the Keiser M3i console including interval training set up, Keiser M3i Bluetooth setup for data storage, Bike ID# set up, and Mile and kilometer set up.

The workout values that you can see on the Keiser M3i spin bike console are;

• Revolutions Per Minute (RPM)
  Meaning how fast you pedal per minute. You can read the manual to see the max RPM you can do because there is a limit for your own safety.
• Watts
  This tells you how much power you are generating, it’s an important feature, especially if you follow certain spin classes. Every few seconds the display alternates between watts and calories burned. Every time for 2 seconds you see the calories and for 6 seconds you see the watts.
• Heart Rate
  The handlebars don’t have pulse sensors. In order to see the heart rate, you need to wear a polar strap which is not included with the bike. If you see an O, it means you are either not wearing a strap or your strap is not compatible.
• Elapsed Time
  You will see the total time of your exercise.
• Gear
  The current resistance level you are spinning is shown here. Keiser M3 and M3+ have 24 levels of resistance
• Odometer
  When you start pedaling for a few seconds, it shows the distance of your workout since you bought the bike. After few more seconds, it starts showing the distance result of your current exercise.
• How to reset the computer
• Two ways to reset the computer. You can move up and down the gear shifter twice or leave the Keiser M3 Plus indoor cycle for 60 seconds.
• 60 Seconds
  If you stop pedaling for 60 seconds, the workout data will be automatically reset to zero. It’s one of the drawbacks of Keiser M3 Plus indoor cycle, especially if you need to answer a call or open the door for a minute.
• Average workout calculation
  To view averages of RPM, watts, and heart rate at any point in the workout, stop pedaling for three seconds. This will flash your averages until you start moving again or until the computer goes to sleep after 60 seconds.
• Resetting ride averages, elapsed time and distance
  To reset your averages during the workout, stop pedaling for three seconds and the averages will start to flash, while they are flashing move the gear shifter from bottom to top two times quickly. This will reset your workout information back to zero.
• Keiser M3i LCD battery and how to replace it
  To test the computer batteries and see if they are charged, pedal until the computer “wakes up”. If the battery is low, a “LO-BA” will display at the bottom of the screen. To replace the batteries unscrew the back of the computer housing, remove the old AA batteries and replace with a set of two new AA batteries.
• Interval training
  To initiate an interval, starting from a high gear drop the shifter handle to gear 1 for 1/4 of a second and lift it up to a higher gear immediately. “inL #” will display confirming the interval has started.
  Repeat the above steps to end the interval. When the interval ends the computer will display “inL End” and the averages for that interval will blink.

Note: The distance traveled is displayed in Odometer in the default settings. It’s somewhere between kilometer and mile but if you want to set it to miles or kilometers, watch the video below or read the M3i manuals. At the time of purchasing you can also ask the retailer to set up the M3i trip distance to miles.

Keiser M Series Application

What does the Keiser Application offer? The Keiser M Series app is a FREE powerful tool for collecting data from Keiser M Series equipment. It offers the real-time graphs for power and heart rate, cadence range dials, FTP zones, and W/Kg ratios. Choose to free ride, perform an FTP test, or follow one of the guided sessions designed by Keiser Master Trainers.

It also allows you to sign in with your Keiser Metrics account to sync indoor ride sessions with the Keiser Metrics cloud to perform advanced analysis and review of workout sessions. You can also connect the Keiser Metrics to other cloud platforms like Apple Health, Strava, and TrainingPeaks for automatic session syncing! Unfortunately Keiser M Series app doesn’t offer live and on-demand classes.

Additional Keiser M3i Compatible Applications:

The old Keiser M3i indoor bike that was manufacture period to October 2021 came with a console that only compatible with a few indoor cycling applications including Bkool, GOInd, Impowered BeTested, and Keiser M3 Series Pro apps. However, it wasn’t compatible with several other very famous indoor bike applications including Zwift and Peloton.

Seeing how everyone was interested to connect their Keiser M3i indoor bike to Zwift, Keiser decided to build a tiny converter that you had to attack the back of your console to make the bike properly connect to many indoor cycling apps that weren’t initially compatible with the bike.

Thankfully since 2021 major improvements were brought to Keiser m3i. The company has discontinued the additional converter (that you had to buy separately) and has replaced it with the M Connect/Series Computer.

The “M Series Computer” has been upgraded with the technology of M Series Converter, meaning you can connect to any of your favorite fitness apps with no additional setup or external devices.

Basically, today in 2023, when you buy a Keiser M3i indoor bike, right out of the box it will connect and transfer all the ride data with almost all cycling applications including Zwift, Strava, Peloton, and one of my favourite apps the QZ.

However, if you found an old or second hand Keiser M3i that was built before the mentioned date, you will still need to purchase the Keiser M Series Converter (or change/upgrade your bike’s console) to synch your indoor cycling data to major apps such as Zwift, Peloton, and Strava.

One important note for those of you purchasing a second hand indoor Keiser M3i indoor cycles is to make sure to ask the retailer/seller if the bike has the upgraded “M Connect Computer”.

If you end up with a Keiser M3i bike that still has an hold computer, you would need one of the following solutions to fully synch your bike with the popular indoor cycling applications such as Zwift and Peloton.

Keiser M3i features Standard Bluetooth 4.0 but not ANT/+. Unfortunately, their Bluetooth can’t communicate with some cycling Apps. Although, it might connect to some of them, it doesn’t synch the cadence to these apps. Here are your options in order to properly connect the Keiser M3i spin bike with the Zwift, Peloton, Train Road and other Apps.

Solution 1: (Recommended)
Keiser M3i Converter

It was released in December 2018 and it is currently available in the US and UK. The converter is a small device that attaches to the backside of the M3i’s media holder and runs on a coins cell battery that lasts 3 months.

Once you double-tap the converter, it will automatically search and connect to the bike. Using this converter by Keiser, you can join the Zwift and many other cycling apps.

The converter will enable the bike to send the RPM and the Watt to the connected fitness apps. The M3i converter comes with a battery, instructions, 2 pieces of hook and loop adhesive tapes.

Currently (February 2021) the Keiser M3i’s converter is included in the M3i bundle. Normally, the converter costs around $190 but you get it for free when buying the Keiser m3i cycle.

Solution 2:
Wahoo sensors

Purchase a speed sensor and stick them to your pedal, download the FREE Wahoo App, move the crank arms to wake up the sensors, then turn on your device’s Bluetooth and there you will see the option to connect with the Wahoo sensors.

After connecting the sensors to your device download the cycling training app that you like and join the games, simple as that. The free Wahoo App is available on Google Play and Apple Store and allows you to track and save your daily progress on your account.

It costs less than $50 and takes less than 5 minutes to stick them to your bike’s crank arms. Wahoo speed sensor features Bluetooth 4.0 and ANT/+ connectivity. They can connect to pretty much all your Bluetooth-enabled Android and iOS devices.

Solution 3:
Power Pedals

There are many ANT+ and Bluetooth-enabled Watt pedals that transfer Power, Cadence/RMP, and Speed to your device. These pedals come with spd clips and install like any other pedal to your Keiser M3i bike. However, this option is very pricey. Some of the most popular high-tech pedals are Assioma DUO Power Meter, Garmin Vector 3 and Powertap P1 Pedals.

Wahoo vs Power Meter Pedals. Wahoo sensors only transfer the Cadence and Speed while the Power meters transfer Watts, Cadence, Speed, Foot balance, MPH and even more workout details. Obviously, Power Meters are the better option but they also cost up to 15 times more than a set of Wahoo sensors.

Keiser M3i Resistance System

Keiser M3i indoor cycle spinning bike has 24 levels of manually adjustable magnetic resistance for all ranges of cycling from easy to medium and intense training, while most spin bikes come with less than 20 resistance levels. Note that the resistance is NOT electronically adjustable so you don’t need a wall socket/plower-plug to use the bike which brings us to the next point that M3i doesn’t change resistance for uphill and downhill automatically when you connect the bike to applications such as Zwift.

Keiser M series features Eddy Current magnetic which means nothing comes in contact with the flywheel. It’s also very quiet and smooth because no parts touch each other. When you add resistance and bring tension on the bike, the two opposing magnets hover on both sides of the flywheel to give resistance. So, the more tension you give to the bike the more surface of the flywheel gets covered by the magnets. There is about two quarter-sized magnets on either side of the flywheel.

Magnetic resistance does not come in contact with the flywheel, therefore, there are no worn-out parts. The other types of resistance are friction and brake pads. They both make noise and need maintenance.

Another good feature of Keiser M3i is the gear shaft and the current gear is displayed on the LCD. Most spin bikes have a knob for resistance adjustment and it’s difficult for the rider to go back to his last tension gear because it’s not written on most bikes.

However, Keiser M bikes come with a properly designed shaft right in front of the rider at the bottom of the handlebars for easy gear switching.

The gear level is displayed at the bottom left corner of the LCD which is also a very unique and useful feature. You can also use the gear shaft for the emergency brake. To do so, you need to move the shaft all the way up and hold it there. This way you bring more tension to stop the flywheel from turning.

Note: You can also set up your bike to do interval training and it’s a new feature on Keiser M3i indoor cycle. Read the above Console Paragraph for instructions.

Keiser M3i flywheel weight

Keiser M3i spin bike features an 8-lb steel flywheel. It’s proven that for spin bikes with magnetic resistance, single belt drive and the combination of big and small pullies, the flywheel weight is not a factor of smooth pedal motion.

All the Keiser M Series bikes (and Life Fitness ICG bikes) have 8-Lb flywheels and still, they manage to give you the most natural road feeling in indoor cycling that you can get. The reason behind this is the belt, magnetic resistance, and both the big and small pulleys.

It’s not freewheeling, which means when the flywheel turns, the crank arms and the pedals turn too. If you pedal forward, the flywheel turns forward as well. If you pedal backward, the flywheel turns backward. This great indoor cycle gives you a 360-degree pedal stroke which makes the motion more fluid rather than up and down.

There are three major pros in Keiser M3i’s lightweight flywheel; It keep the bike lightweight so you can easily move the bike from one place to another. There is less weight/pressure on the bearings so there is less maintenance. Lastly, it’s easily to get start cycling and get the flywheel moving, unlike heavy flywheels that require more knee strength to use the bike. Therefore, senior members of your family and even those with minor injuries might be able to ride the Keiser M3i indoor cycle while they may not be able to use a spin bike with 50-pound flywheel.

M3i’s frame and maintenance frequency

Keiser indoor bikes are top-rated and designed for commercial use, meaning they are built to be used multiple users in the spin classes and clubs for hours daily. So, there is no doubt that Keiser M3i indoor exercise cycle has one of the best heavy-duty steel frames among the spin bikes in the entire market.

The perfectly designed dimension of this spinning bike helps to keep the bike and the rider steady even during the most energetic and intense exercises. The painted and the aluminum Keiser M3i parts are very durable against the sweat.

The main material used in the frame of Keiser M3i indoor bike is heavy-duty aluminum and steel. The new sexy dark black and shiny red colors, simplicity and strength design on Keiser M3i can attract even those who don’t do the spinning workout. The V-shape frame helps to get on and off the bike easy. It also helps to protect the bike from sweat. Keiser M3i frame requires little to no maintenance.

The base has four feet, providing maximum stability on uneven surfaces. For better protection of the floor, you can purchase a Keiser M3i mat to use under the bike as well (unless it’s included in your purchase).

Note: Three feet of the frame are fixed and can’t be adjusted but one foot is adjustable. The leveler’s foot is located on the left rear corner of the base frame. By rotating the foot inward or clockwise you can adjust the base on uneven surfaces.

Read the list of the parts you need to check daily, weekly and monthly:

• Wipe off the sweat after each session
• Check and re-torque crank arms and pedals, weekly for the 1st month
• Clean with warm water and a soft towel, weekly
• Check computer for low battery life, weekly (pedal until the computer “wakes up”. If the battery is low, a “LO-BA” will be displayed)
• Check and re-torque crank arms, pedals and mainframe nut, monthly
• Wax those areas most in contact with sweat, monthly
• Lubricate adjustment handle threads, monthly

Keiser M3i handlebars, seat, and setup

Keiser M3i handlebars are designed differently and unique from any other spin bike on the market. The shape is ergonomically designed for less stress on the back and a better view of the tablet and phone screen if you have them on the tray.

It’s 4-way adjustable to accommodate users with different heights. Despite the media tray, you can still use the handlebars in 4 cycling positions: Overhand front position, Hook or middle position, Extended position, and Time trailing positions.

Note: If you are planning to buy a spin bike that has V-shape frame, make sure that the handlebars are horizontally and vertically adjustable. Because they move up and down at a 45-degree angle.

On the V-shape frames, if you bring handlebars down, it gets too close to you because it doesn’t go straight down. The same rule applies when you move the handlebar up (it gets far from you) because it doesn’t go up straight. If it’s horizontally adjustable, you can simply adjust it to come closer or it gets far from you.

The seat is easy to replace and very comfortable for a spin bike. You can adjust the seat for your height by loosening the levelers located at the back of the seat. It’s also 4-way adjustable, which means you can fore/aft, up and down to help you find the most comfortable and natural position.

Keiser M3i also features plunging system seat post. The seat post has multiple holes where you can lock the plunger. You can also have the seat halfway between two holes and just tighten the knob. The good thing is that if the seat adjustment knob is not tight enough and the seat falls down, it will fall down into a hole instead of going all the way down.

M3i’s pedals and cranks

One of the standout features of the Keiser M3i pedals is their revolutionary design. Keiser has engineered them to be superior in terms of comfort and functionality compared to other indoor cycling bike pedals on the market.

Whether you prefer wearing normal athletic shoes or clip-in specific cycling shoes, these pedals are perfect for you.They are equipped with SPD elements on one side and a shoe cages on the other side, allowing you to exercise with whichever shoe type suits your preference. The 9/16 standard pedal thread is also another factor that makes it easy to find pedals replacement for the Keiser M3i if they ever break.

The first thing that caught my attention is the ramped barbs on the pedals. They provide a secure foot placement without any difficulty when inserting your feet. It’s a small but significant detail that contributes to the overall stability and confidence you feel while riding.

The curvature of the pedals is another remarkable feature. It perfectly matches the typical design of athletic shoes, eliminating any pressure points on my feet. This ensures that you can enjoy a comfortable and pain-free spinning ride, even during long and intense workouts. Keiser’s attention to detail in this aspect truly sets them apart.

Durability and performance are also priorities for Keiser, as evident in the pedal bearings. These bearings have been rigorously tested for both static and dynamic loads, ensuring their strength and reliability when you are getting on, off, and riding the bike. The smooth and consistent pedaling motion I always experience is a testament to their quality.

Adjusting the tension of the SPD clips is a breeze with the Keiser M3i pedals. The tension adjustment feature is easily accessible, allowing you to customize it to your preference. This ensures a secure and efficient connection between your indoor cycling shoes and the pedals, enhancing your overall riding experience.

Keiser’s focus on the axle design is also commendable. The flexible and strong construction evenly distributes the stress load, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. The Chromoly steel axle, forged, machined, and heat-treated, adds to the pedals’ durability and reliability, even during intense workouts.

Another thoughtful design choice is the re-angled position of the SPD clip. This provides greater clearance between the cage and the ground, minimizing the risk of scraping or hitting the ground while using the SPD clips. It’s another Keiser M3i’s feature that prioritizes both functionality and rider safety.

Moreover, the angle of the crank provides a comfortable riding experience, particularly for individuals with wider hips. The thoughtful design accommodates a broader range of riders, ensuring that everyone can find a comfortable and ergonomic riding position.

I think these re-designed pedals offer unmatched comfort, secure foot placement, and easy customization options. The curved crank design accommodates different shoe types and body shapes, making the Keiser M3i a versatile and comfortable choice for pretty much any rider.

Keiser M3i Warranty Terms

When it comes to the warranty terms of the Keiser M3i, I’m thrilled to share my first-hand experience. Keiser truly stands behind their product, offering generous coverage to protect your investment and provide you with peace of mind.

Let’s start with the frame, which is the backbone of the bike. I’m amazed by the 10-year warranty they provide for the frame. It speaks volumes about the confidence Keiser has in the durability and long-lasting performance of their M3i model.

Moving on to the crucial components like cylinders, displays, and processor boxes, I’m happy to report that Keiser offers a solid 3-year warranty. This ensures that you can rely on accurate data and seamless functionality throughout your cycling sessions.

When it comes to the compressor and dryer, cables, pulleys, and bearings, Keiser doesn’t disappoint either. They provide a reliable 2-year warranty for these essential parts. It’s comforting to know that Keiser has your back when it comes to the smooth operation and overall performance of the resistance system.

Even the chrome components, which add a touch of elegance to the bike, are covered for 1 year. This demonstrates Keiser’s commitment to maintaining the aesthetic appeal and structural integrity of their indoor cycle.

While some parts have a 90-day warranty, such as paint, upholstery, seat belts, hand grips, and other rubber and plastic products, it’s important to note that Keiser is dedicated to addressing any potential defects or issues that may arise during the initial period of use.

However, it’s essential to understand that Keiser will not cover certain situations under warranty. These include accidents, abuse, improper use, neglect, improper maintenance, and assembly not following the provided instructions. So, it’s crucial to handle and maintain your Keiser M3i with care and follow the guidelines to ensure your warranty remains intact.

New Keiser M3i included accessories

I know in the past the Keiser M3i didn’t include much in terms of accessories but now there are amazing accessories that come with the Keiser M3i from my own personal experience. These additions truly elevate the overall cycling experience and make it even more enjoyable. Let me take you through each of them.

First and foremost, the water bottle and its holder is a game-changer. It’s designed to fit both small and larger bottles, ensuring that you stay hydrated throughout your intense workouts. I personally love having easy access to my water without having to pause or reach too far.

Also, what sets the Keiser M3i apart from its predecessors, the M3 and M3+, is the inclusion of a well-angled and perfectly sized media rack. This is also a game-changer because you can now keep your phone and tablet right in front of you, allowing you to stay connected and view your workout performance data on a larger screen. It’s incredibly convenient and adds an extra level of enjoyment to your rides.

When it comes to powering the LCD display, the Keiser M3i requires only 2 AA batteries which comes with the bike. What impressed me the most is the back-lit sensor, which significantly extends the battery life compared to other indoor bikes I’ve used. It’s such a relief not to worry about constantly replacing batteries and being able to focus solely on your workouts.

Keiser understands the importance of monitoring heart rate during exercise, which is why they include a wireless Polar strap with the M3i. This strap provides accurate heart rate data, allowing you to track your performance and make adjustments as needed. It’s a small accessory that makes a big difference in optimizing your indoor cycling workouts. But if they don’t include this with your Keiser M3i, you can buy a Garmin 010-12883-00 which works good with the bike.

The inclusion of assembly and maintenance tools is a thoughtful touch. I appreciate having all the necessary tools in that nice Keiser bag at my fingertips to set up the bike and perform routine maintenance tasks. It saves me time and hassle, allowing me to get right into my workouts.

Additionally, the holiday bundle of the Keiser M3i includes a floor protection mat. This is a fantastic addition because it not only keeps your floors safe from potential damage caused by the bike, but it also adds stability and reduces vibrations during your cycling rides. It’s a small investment that goes a long way in creating a comfortable and stable workout environment.

Last but not least, the two dumbbells and holder that come with the M3i are a great bonus. They allow you to incorporate upper body exercises into your cycling routine, providing a well-rounded full body workout experience. It’s convenient to have them right there with you, eliminating the need to switch between equipment.

All in all, the accessories that come with the Keiser M3i truly enhance the overall cycling experience. From the water bottle holder to the media rack, from the wireless Polar strap to the assembly and maintenance tools, and from the floor protection mat to the dumbbells and holder, Keiser has thoughtfully included everything you need to have a convenient, comfortable, and engaging workout session.

Keiser M3i Assembly Process

It’s important to follow the Keiser M3i’s instructions carefully to ensure proper assembly and avoid any future warranty issues. The Keiser M3i comes partially assembled, and you’ll need to put together the frame, flywheel, pedals, handlebar, and console. The whole process should take approximately 1 hour if done correctly.

To start, carefully unwrap the Keiser M3i, using a knife or scissors, making sure not to scratch the bike’s surface. It’s worth noting that assembly is a bit more involved compared to other spin bikes I’ve tried and reviewed, especially when it comes to the flywheel. Having an extra pair of hands or a helper can make the process smoother.

Begin by mounting the cycle on the base, ensuring that the front of the bike faces the wheels on the base. Then, tighten the four frame nuts that secure the cycling unit to the base. Don’t forget to use the washers that come with each nut for added stability.

Next, you’ll need to install the flywheel and hubcap. Lower the resistance shifter to release the magnets, allowing you to slide the flywheel in between them. Align the holes of the flywheel with those on the hub, and then install the hubcap. You’ll need a 5mm Allen wrench for this step. Ensure that all the bolts holding the flywheel and hubcap are tightened securely. If the flywheel turns smoothly without hitting anything or wobbling, you can proceed to install the flywheel guard, a round piece of red metal that adds protection.

Moving on to the pedals, it’s crucial to install them on the correct sides. The right pedal (R) should be installed on the right/R crank arm, and the left pedal (L) on the left/L crank arm. Remember that the left pedal tightens in a counterclockwise direction. I recommend double-checking that the pedals are tightly secured to prevent them from coming loose or stripping the pedal threads.

Next, install the computer onto its mount and then attach the handlebars. Once the handlebars are in place, you can install the tablet holder, which is a convenient addition for placing your device while you work out. Finally, if necessary, you can install the seat, which typically comes preinstalled but may need adjustment based on your preference.

Keiser M3i FAQs

Sayed

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.

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