Strengths:
1) Get 2 Exercise-Machines-in-One
With the recumbent elliptical you have 2 options. You can choose an elliptical running-type motion, or with a quick adjustment you can change over to a stair-stepping motion (which is more vertical up-and-down).
These motions work different muscle groups so you're not only burning more calories but you're getting a better crosstraining workout.
2) Get the Comfort of a Recumbent Bike
The V2300 elliptical bike comes with a padded, contoured seat cushion that adds some extra comfort to your workout. It adjusts easily so no matter what your height, you can find a good fit for you. Plus it comes with an extra back pad to make the user even more comfortable.
3) Wireless Heart Rate Control
You can easily stay in your target fat-burning zone with the wireless heart rate monitor (which many users feel is more accurate than a hand grip pulse sensor). The console gives you constant feedback on your heart rate as you pedal.
4) 7 Built-In Workouts
You get 7 built-in console workouts with the recumbent elliptical bike. There's a manual program, 5 preset programs (rolling hills, valley, fat burn, ramp, random) and 1 target heart rate program. While that may not seem like a lot it will give you some challenge and a chance to change up your workout routine.
5) Extra Long Workout with 2 Years on Parts
This is a great warranty covering the frame and braking for a lifetime, parts for 7 years and labor for 2 years. Since labor can be really expensive, the labor warranty alone can save you a lot of money - a great protection on your investment.
Weaknesses:
If you're a true elliptical training enthusiast, you may prefer to get an actual elliptical trainer. Also, it doesn't come with some of the fancy "bells and whistles" that you get with many elliptical crosstrainers (i.e. lots of workout programs, incline, hand grip pulse sensors, etc.)
Summary: Recommended
If you're looking for something a little gentler and more comfortable than a standard crosstrainer, you may want to consider the Smooth V2300 recumbent elliptical.
You get the comfort of a recumbent bike with the calorie-burning effects of an elliptical. Plus with the extra stair-stepping motion option, you get a great way to crosstrain and work even more lower body muscles.
Another bonus is that it's made by Smooth - a well-known fitness equipment maker - and covered by an extra long warranty to protect your investment.
Where To Buy Online:
You can the Smooth V2300 direct from the Manufacturer. You can also currently get Free Shipping which will save you about $150 and watch a Free video on how it works.
Looking for a recumbent elliptical? The elliptical bike, especially the kind with a recumbent seat, is a fairly new type of fitness equipment.
You sit on it like a semi-recumbent bike (the pedals are angled out and below you instead of out in front of you like a "true" recumbent bike).
You can pedal using the elliptical motion option or you can also choose the stair-stepping motion (more vertical up and down) which gives you a better crosstraining workout.
You can also tone your upper body with the moving handlebars - something you can't do on a standard bike.
So is the V2300 right for you? Here's a review to help you decide:
Features:
Price: $1299 (+ Free Shipping)
Resistance Levels: 8
Stride Length: 17"
Built In Workout Programs: 7
Upper Body Arms: Yes
Heart Rate Monitor: Wireless
Water Bottle Holder: Yes
User Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Warranty: Lifetime Frame& Braking, 7 Year Parts and 2 years on Labor