If you are looking for a reasonable price spin bike, MaxKare spin bikes need to be on your shortlist for several reasons. The MaxKare indoor cycle, in particular, offers a sturdy frame with 300 pounds of weight capacity and comes with a manual magnetic resistance adjustment.
Turning the knob clockwise will increase the resistance as the magnetic brake will come closer to the flywheel and vice versa. The magnets and the flywheel do not touch so there is no wear and tear or noise.
What makes this MaxKare bike an ideal spin bike for home use is the combination of the belt drive system with magnetic resistance system. The belt drive comes with several advantages from being quiet to no requirement of lubrication and lesser vibrations.
The flywheel weighs 30 pounds which is a heavy one and helps with the consistent momentum, extra stability, and smooth pedaling motion. It is bi-directional, meaning you can pedal in reverse as well and can practically double the number of workouts that you would be able to perform on this bike.
The MaxKare bike is equipped with a heavy-duty crank with two solid steel arms making it durable and suitable for all spin workouts including out of the saddle workouts. MaxKare indoor cycling bike trainer Gray is also backed by a 2-year warranty and 3-month full refund policy which is not too easy to get for this price tag.
This Brand is no longer in business. Avoid getting in touch with their support email “support@maxkare.net” because it’s hacked and they will ask for credit card information.
Important Note!
This is where we compare the bike with other spin bikes in the same price class to help you decide whether it is the best value or not. As far as the MaxKare indoor cycling bike trainer Gray is concerned, it is a great value spin bike under $300.
For less than $270 I don’t know of any other spin bike that features magnetic resistance with a belt drive system. However, if you can spend $60 more dollars ($330), I recommend you to buy the MaxKare Black magnetic spin bike.
The MaxKar Black comes with an exercise meter to keep track of your spinning workout progress, it has 4-way adjustable handlebars, stainless steel posts, and lever adjustment system.
But if your budget is less than $330, don’t look further because you won’t find a better value spin bike. And if you want a more affordable option, I suggest you check out our picks of best spin bikes under $200. Let’s review the bike in-depth to help you decide whether it would meet your fitness needs or not.
The MaxKare Gray magnetic spin bike is designed with durable construction that can support just about any type of spin workout. Materials used on the fitness cycle bike and the triangle type frame decide the durability and the actual spin bike weight.
With a high-quality metal frame, it can hold 300-lb load weight. It is a lightweight bike that weighs 90 pounds with the frame fully assembled and can be easily moved from one place to another inside the house.
For relocating the bike after each spinning workout, the front base is equipped with two large durable transport wheel wheels. As for dimensions, this MaxKare indoor cycling bike is relatively compact and doesn’t need too much space.
Thanks to its 4 adjustable stabilizer feet, you can perfectly level the bike on any type of surface including uneven floors. Additionally, the MaxKare spin bike features a durable powder coating that provides a nice shiny exterior as well as protection against rust and scratch.
MaxKare Gray Magnetic Bike Computer:
MaxKare Gray spin bike comes without a bike computer.
You can’t track the workout progress unless you go with one of the options below.
While the lack of computer minimizes the maintenance, it prevents you from tracking your spinning workout progress. So, it has both, an advantage and a disadvantage.
But if you want a computer, you can always install one on this indoor cycling bike. Or even better, just buy the black model of MaxKare indoor cycling bike. It comes with a basic computer so you can see some of your workout feedbacks.
However, if you want to track your workouts and join spinning apps such as Zwift for more exciting rides, I suggest you buy a Wahoo sensor. It attaches to the pedal and tracks your RPM (revolution per minute) time, distance, and more.
Search our website for “spin bike computer and Wahoos sensors” to understand all your options for MaxKare spin bike. With a Wahoo app on your device (phone, tablet, etc) you can also track your heart rate.
MaxKare Cycle Pedals and Q-factor:
This MaxKare bike features adjustable toe caged pedals.
They are not clipless cycling shoes compatible.
This cycle has the standard 9/16″ pedal thread size.
The q-factor is not disclosed.
The Gray MaxKare magnetic cycle has durable steel toe-caged pedals. They are designed with adjustable straps and buckle to fit for different size feet and keep them in place safely.
Unfortunately, they are not SPD compatible which means if you want to ride the bike with the clipless spinning shoes, you will need to replace the pedals. But it’s not a deal-breaker because the MaxKare indoor cycle trainer comes with 9/16″ thread size. Therefore, the SPD replacement pedals are widely available for as little as $40.
The company hasn’t released the q-factor information for this bike and we are still waiting to receive a confirmation for this aspect of the MaxKare Gray.
In case you are new to cycling, the q-factor is the distance between the pedals. The narrower it is, the better it is because it keeps your feet aligned with your knees and hips to minimize stress on the joints.
7-8 inches q-factor is considered good while less than 7-inch is great because it will help position your feet naturally on the pedals, which results in a healthy pedaling motion with zero lateral stress on the knees and ankles.
MaxKare Indoor Bike Flywheel:
The Gray MaxKare spin bike flywheel weighs 30 pounds to deliver a low-impact natural pedal stroke.
The flywheel is fixed and bi-direction which allows pedaling both directions.
The flywheel is a fairly heavy one, weighing 30 pounds, designed for a more natural ride and consistent momentum. It’s fixed and bi-directional, which means you can pedal in reverse as well as forward.
The benefit of fixed-wheel (fixed-gear) is that you can double the number of workouts and by pedaling reverse simulate different muscle groups. A disadvantage of fixed-gear is that you can not take a two-second break or immediately dismount the bike in case of emergency.
The flywheel is connected with the pedals so you will have to wait until the flywheel and pedals stop before you can get off the bike. There are a few indoor cycling bikes with smart release (free-wheel) system. But they cost more than $2000.
Overall the MaxKare indoor cycle trainer produces a smooth pedaling experience thanks to the combination of the magnetic system, belt and heavy flywheel resulting in extra stability and smoothness for the pedaling motion.
Magnetic Resistance System:
This MaxKare Gray cycle has magnetic resistance to provide a smooth responsive ride.
There are multiple strong magnets to create a challenging spinning exercise.
Resistance is manually adjustable through a knob located on the frame.
It has the press down emergency braking system allows for a quiet and safe stop when the flywheel is spinning very fast.
The selling factor of this MaxKare indoor cycling exercise bike is its silent magnetic resistance system. This indoor bike with magnetic resistance and belt drive is perfect for home cardio exercise.
Unlike competitors with little resistance, the MaxKare magnetic indoor cycling exercise bike has 4 large magnets to provide a challenging and smooth responsive ride by increasing the magnetic field resistance.
As I mentioned earlier in this MaxKare indoor cycling bike review, this bike is equipped with a manual magnetic resistance system. So, the resistance is controlled manually (not electronically).
In addition to quiet operation, the MaxKare spin bike resistance is also virtually maintenance-free, unlike bikes with friction resistance the resistance pad and the flywheel do not touch.
Therefore, the resistance does not wear out and you won’t have to go through the hassle of changing the brake pad like you would for friction bike.
The resistance knob doesn’t have levels specified on it. Therefore, you wouldn’t know the exact level or your previous level. But after a while of riding this bike, you will get a feeling of how much of a knob turn generate the resistance adequate to your training.
Lastly, the resistance also serves as an emergency brake; by pressing it down you can immediately stop the flywheel, which may be necessary in case of emergency or if you want to alternate normal with reverse pedaling sessions.
Belt Drive System:
MaxKare indoor cycle features belt-drive design for a quiet and smooth workout.
This bike has the fixed-gear single belt direct drive mechanism.
In addition to a magnetic system, one of the aspects that I like about MaxKare indoor cycling bike is the belt drive. In fact, it is the combination of the belt with magnetic resistance that makes this cycle stand out from the crowd.
Featuring a high-quality belt drivetrain comes with several advantages. For example, it doesn’t require lubing so you wouldn’t have to deal with the mess that oil could make on your floor.
The other benefits include low-maintenance because the belt is one piece unlike chain with 100+ little pieces. And last but not least, the belt does not generate as much vibration as the chain does, resulting in an extremely quiet and smooth spinning exercise.
MaxKare indoor cycling bike is made for indoor cycling workout for all fitness levels therefore, it has durable and solid crank arms. It can support the rider in all cycling positions include off the seat full body high-intensity workouts.
Handlebars and Seat:
MaxKare Gray handlebars are 2-way adjustable.
A table holder is built-on the handlebars.
The seat is 4-way adjustable with safety holes on the vertical post for comfort and safe exercise.
It is a well-padded leather seat with the center cutout design for breathability and comfort.
The seat and handlebar posts are not stainless steel.
For horizontal and vertical, this bike has two knobs (not levers).
This indoor cycling bike lacks in 4-way handlebar adjustment which means some users can not customize the bike correctly for their height. Currently, the only spin bike with magnetic resistance and 4-way handlebars adjustment under $350 is the MaxKare Black.
If you can afford the extra $60, I strongly advise you to go with that model. The 4-way adjustment allows a perfect bike setting and provides a safe and comfortable ride for all your family members.
The Maxkare Gray comes with a media holder that makes it easy for you to have the tablet on the bike watching a Netflix movie or spinning video on YouTube for a more exciting and efficient workout.
The seat provided with the MaxKare Gray exercise bike is well padded and more comfortable compared to many other spin bikes in this price class. It is a relatively wide leather seat with a cut in the center to reduce the pressure and let the air flow to keep you cool and exercise longer.
It has several layers of soft padding and has two springs at the rear that considerably improve its overall cushioning and comfort. As for adjustment, MaxKare’s seat can be adjusted for most user heights. It is fore/aft up/down adjustable
Instead of regular dents, its vertical post has several adjustment holes that keep the seat tightly in place and prevent shaking or going down.
Featuring a multi-grip urethane dipped handlebar design, your workout remains comfortable when riding for long periods of time. The aero bar adds several grip possibilities and allows you to change arm positions to engage different upper muscles and prevent wrist and arm aches and fatigue.
Value for Money and Warranty:
The Gray MaxKare spin bike retails on Amazon by Max Kare Fitness (not other third-party retailers).
This MaxKare magnetic indoor cycle has 2 years warranty.
To order parts for this MaxKare bikes under warranty, you can reach the company via Amazon or the email provided in the manual.
It included a 3-month full refund if there is any defect or damages.
Considering all the features including the tablet holder, high-quality seat, magnetic resistance, belt system, and 2-year warranty, the Max Kare indoor cycling bike trainer is a good value for the money.
For around $250 you are buying what a fancy fitness equipment brand would have easily priced it $350. And the fact that MaxKare is covering this budget home use cycle for two years is a good indication of its quality and value.
The generous warranty proves that it is not some cheap product and will last longer than competitors with a 90-day warranty. As for the parts under warranty or any other information in that manner, you can contact the seller on Amazon or the email address provided in the manual.
Note that MaxKare’s warranty doesn’t cover ordinary wear and tear or damage caused by improper use or accidents subject to the terms of our limited warranty. Which is common among all fitness equipment brands.
Shipping and Assembly:
MaxKare magnetic stationary belt drive spin bike comes mostly assembled.
The package includes all the needed installation tools and the manual.
MaxKare spin bike shipping is free.
This bike ships in one box that weighs around 100 pounds.
This MaxKare indoor cycle comes with the required installation tools and assembly instruction to make the assembly process a piece of cake. So, you wouldn’t need to spend another $80 for that.
Most of the bike comes already assembled. The flywheel, the drive belt, the crank assembly and the resistance mechanism are already attached to the main frame.
Therefore, in terms of assembly, all you need to do is attach the front and rear base bars to the main-frame, install the seat and handlebar posts and finally the console and the pedals.
This shouldn’t take more than 30-40 minutes. The MaxKare indoor cycle manual will guide you through the assembly steps and thankfully the tools required for it are all included.
Note: Please pay attention to the pedal assembling, the left pedal needs to be screwed in counter-clockwise. As for the maintenance, a periodic check for loose bolts and parts is recommended.
The transmission is a belt (not a chain) so it does not require any lubrication. Other than this, wipe the sweat off the bike with the towel after the workout.
MaxKare Magnetic Spin Bike Pros:
Smooth and Silent Operation: Thanks to the combination of durable belt, heavy flywheel, and magnetic resistance, the MaxKare magnetic exercise bike is extremely smooth, quiet and needs very little maintenance. Unlike chain bikes, the belt is quiet and doesn’t need lubing, unlike friction bikes, the magnets are silent and don’t wear out.
Easy-Assembly: The bike comes partially assembled as the drive belt, the flywheel, the crank assembly, as well as the brake mechanism are already attached to the frame. So, you will just have to attach the base supports, handlebars, the seat, and finally the pedals which wouldn’t require more than half an hour. The manual and the assembly tools will help you with the assembly.
Low-Maintenace: The bike doesn’t require much maintenance except for the lubrication of the handlebars and the seat for easy sliding and a periodic check for the loosening parts and bolts.
Multi-grip handlebars with custom sweat resistant grips built for comfort to avoid any hand fatigue;
Heavy duty and high durability steel frame construction with up to 300 pounds in weight capacity;
Center cutout and breathable fully adjustable saddle for a comfortable ride;
Adjustable pedal straps to ensure feet are secure in place keeping balance and comfort;
Transport wheels for easy storage and portability;
Adjustable foot levelers for the stability of the machine to your floors;
Secure tablet holder built-in the handlebars;
Emergency braking system;
30 Pound heavy flywheel for a consistent momentum and intense workout;
Smooth and almost silent belt drive;
Bi-directional flywheel to engage different muscle groups;
Manual magnetic resistance, with no friction;
Tools for an easy assembly are included;
MaxKare Magnetic Spin Bike Cons:
Bike computer This MaxKare indoor cycling bike comes without a computer so you can not track the workout progress.
Handlebars: Unfortunately this Max Kare indoor cycling bike trainer lacks in 4-way adjustable handlebars. They are only vertically adjustable which means some riders may not be able to customize the bike for a comfortable spin exercise.
No SPD elements on the pedals.
The exact Q-factor information is not disclosed.
Last Word on MaxKare Gray Magnetic Indoor Cycling Bike:
The MaxKare Gray is a sturdy and durable indoor cycling trainer, with a weight capacity of 300 lbs. Designed for spinning workouts, the MaxKare cycle offers a smooth and very quiet pedaling motion.
In addition to a heavy durable frame, tablet holder and bottle holder, this Max-Gray indoor bike comes with stabilizers on the base that can be used to further enhance the stability by leveling it perfectly to the surface.
The frame of the bike features a double powder coating which is both scratch resistant and rust resistant making it durable. While it is not foldable, it comes equipped with durable transport wheels at the front to make its portability easier.
It has a comfortable seat with extra cushioning, a belt drive system, and a multi-grip handlebar. It would make the perfect choice for light to intense cardio workouts at home to help you with your endurance training, weight loss, and interval training.
It is not the most affordable indoor cycling bike but it is certainly cheaper than its counterparts that come with magnetic resistance. As I mentioned at the beginning of this Maxkare indoor cycling bike trainer review, I recommend you to buy the MaxKare indoor cycle Black, if you can afford it. Search our website for the MaxKare Black model.
6Expert Score
Maxkare Gray Indoor Bike
You can unleash your inner beast with this MaxKare magnetic belt drive indoor cycling bike without disturbing the rest of the family with excessive noise. Featuring a 30-pound flywheel designed, the MaxKare offers a maximum stability force momentum forward in your legs. This spinning bike is one of the latest products by the MaxKare and comes with an affordable price tag and some excellent features. The Gray Maxkare magnetic indoor cycling bike features quiet resistance system, smooth belt drive mechanism, and made to last for light indoor use.
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.
We just picked this off of Amazon for $269.99. It is everything the review says it is. I’m not the sinner that my wife was at one time. She is looking I to getting back into it but we will both be using the bike this winter. We bought the 3-year extended warranty and we’ll see if we can wear it out or break something that shouldn’t have.
It is a good spin bike at a good value. For the price, I am not sure if there is a better spin bike on the market. Hopefully, you will enjoy the bike for years to come. Please keep our readers updated regarding your experience with this magnetic exercise bike.
We just picked this off of Amazon for $269.99. It is everything the review says it is. I’m not the sinner that my wife was at one time. She is looking I to getting back into it but we will both be using the bike this winter. We bought the 3-year extended warranty and we’ll see if we can wear it out or break something that shouldn’t have.
Hi Norm, thanks for stopping by
It is a good spin bike at a good value. For the price, I am not sure if there is a better spin bike on the market. Hopefully, you will enjoy the bike for years to come. Please keep our readers updated regarding your experience with this magnetic exercise bike.
Thanks again
YEB Team