Sole SB700 Review: A High-Quality Studio Spin Bike With a Budget-Friendly Price Tag
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Key Features:
- High-quality studio spin bike designed for both indoor and outdoor cyclists
- Heavy-duty 48-pound chrome-plated flywheel designed for a smooth ride
- Adjustable seat and handlebars that move both vertically and horizontally
- Three-inch by four-inch backlit LCD monitor that displays key fitness metrics
- Kevlar braking design with felt brake pads that provides an easier stop
Exercising on an indoor bike can offer a myriad of health benefits, including improved aerobic capacity and reduced blood pressure. Spin bikes are a variation of upright stationary bikes that are generally equipped with heavier flywheels to create a ride that loosely mimics the feel of a road bike. They make a particularly good addition to any cardio routine as studies have shown that spinning workouts not only lead to high-caloric expenditure, but also have the potential to increase post-workout calorie burn.
There is no shortage of exercise bikes for home use available in the fitness market, meaning that it can be challenging to find the right one for you.
If you prioritize top-notch performance and construction over flashy tech, you would be remiss to not consider the Sole Fitness SB700. True to the Sole brand reputation, it offers users a durable, high-performing ride at a budget-friendly price. In this article, we will dive into everything you need to know about the SB700, including a comprehensive review of its specifications and a guide on what to consider before making your purchase.
Sole SB700 Construction
When it comes to caliber of construction, Sole Fitness does not cut corners; the brand prides itself on producing high-performing and incredibly durable fitness equipment including recumbent bikes, ellipticals and treadmills. Let’s break down the Sole SB700 by product specifications to see how it lives up to the Sole reputation.
Seat
The seat on this spin bike can be adjusted both horizontally and vertically, offering a customized fit for every rider. In terms of comfort, the saddle is on par with the comfort you would find on a spin bike at your gym. It has a shallow, ergonomically placed center channel designed to reduce pressure on the soft tissue and redistribute your weight. It is not, however, padded. If you prefer a cushioned seat, you may want to consider a gel saddle cover.
Pedals
The pedals on the SB700 are traditional flat pedals with toothed edges intended to prevent your foot from slipping. The toe-cages are strapped over the forefoot and can be adjusted to offer a secure fit. Any athletic shoe will work well on these pedals, but if you're looking to clip in with some cycling shoes, you're out of luck.
Adjustments
When it comes to adjustability, the SB700 shines. It boasts four adjustments between the handlebars and seat. Both can be adjusted horizontally, vertically, forward and backward, enabling a personalized fit.
Handlebars
The Sole SB700’s handlebars are covered with the slightly squishy coating you see on most spin bikes. It primarily functions as a moisture-resistant barrier to block sweat. While it offers a bit of cushioning, reviewers praise these handlebars most for their adjustability.
They move both up and down as well as forward and backwards, allowing each rider to find their right fit. These handlebars allow for multiple hand positions.
Flywheel
The general rule of thumb for flywheels is that the heavier the flywheel, the smoother the ride. Also, heavier flywheels allow you to generate more resistance and momentum. And the flywheel on the SB700 weighs a hefty 48 pounds, which is an impressive weight for a spin bike at this price point. It's chrome covered, which does not affect functionality, but looks sleek. The vast majority of reviews report a very smooth and quiet ride, which can, in part, be attributed to the flywheel.
Monitor and controls
You won’t find any complicated controls or an overly techy monitor on the SB700. It comes equipped with an easy-to-use three-inch by four-inch LCD console display. On it you can monitor key workout metrics including RPM, time, kilocalories burned, distance and speed. This display is compatible with wireless heart rate monitor chest straps, so if you train with heart rate zones, you can view it in real-time. New to the SB700 is an integrated tablet holder that accommodates most smart devices.
The only control you’ll find on the SB700 is the resistance knob. The SB700 features a Kevlar braking design that uses a felt brake pad and friction-based resistance. The knob design allows for a big range of resistance options and is not calibrated by resistance levels.
Pros of the Sole SB700
- Solid build with a heavy flywheel
- Four points of adjustability allow a personalized fit
- Easy-to-use
- Wireless heart rate strap compatible
- Impressive warranty
- Budget-friendly
Cons of the Sole SB700
- Small monitor
- No preset workout programs
- Does not directly sync with any fitness platform
Working Out with the Sole SB700
Cyclists who prefer a no-frills exercise bike with top-notch performance will appreciate working out on the Sole SB700. You control your workout by using the resistance knob, so it's very simple to get moving on this bike. Several users commented on how smooth the ride is, especially when you consider it uses a friction-based resistance which traditionally is more jerky than magnetic. That doesn't seem to be an issue for the SB700. To adjust the resistance, you simply turn the knob as much or little as you like. The tension knob also functions as a braking system when you push down on it.
Who the Sole SB700 Is Best For
Anyone who prioritizes durability, performance and quality construction will likely be pleased with the Sole SB700. If you prefer to create your own workouts and do not like being connected to any subscription-based training platform, the SB700 also fits the bill. Lastly, its affordability makes it an attractive choice for anyone on a budget.
Who the Sole SB700 Is Not Best For
Cyclists looking for a connected or immersive riding experience will not be fans of the Sole SB700. While there is an integrated tablet holder, the bike itself is not synced up with any fitness platform. It also doesn't come with any pre-programmed workouts, so if you like to have the bike do the thinking for you by providing a workout, the SB700 may not be for you.
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Factors to Consider Before Purchasing the Sole SB700
Price
It's hard to beat the price of the SB700, especially when you consider its quality construction. The SB700 is considered Sole’s entry-level spin bike and one of the least-expensive machines in its line of exercise equipment. Still, its specs can contend with Sole’s higher end bikes in most areas, so don’t be fooled into thinking that entry-level means lower quality.
Subscription
You don't need a subscription to use the SB700, but if you'd like to try one out, Sole does have its own training app, Sole Studio. Studio is a membership based platform that houses a library of workouts ranging from strength and yoga to cycling and boxing. A 90-day free membership is included in your purchase of the SB700. After this trial period, a membership costs $19.99 monthly or $199 annually.
Size
Measuring 40 inches long, 21 inches wide and 41 inches high, the SB700 is a relatively compact machine. Aside from folding exercise bikes, this is about as small of a footprint that you will come across on an indoor cycling bike. The SB700 weighs 141 pounds and comes with transport wheels located under the front supports, making it easy to move around if needed.
Assembly
There are few, if any, reviews that report any difficulty assembling the SB700. The frame comes fully assembled, so consumers just need to worry about attaching the pedals, handlebars, display and stabilizer supports. For those who are not handy, Sole has an online video that provides some assembly guidance.
Modes and features
The Sole SB700 does not come with any pre-programmed workouts or specific modes. Rather, it provides an avenue on which you can create your own cycling session. Alternatively, follow along with your favorite virtual trainer by securing your smart device on the integrated tablet holder.
This model spin bike lacks the flashiness of the more tech-driven exercise bikes, such as Peloton. Its main features include its four points of adjustability, chest strap compatibility, turn dial resistance, two water bottle holders, integrated tablet holder and a small LCD display.
Training programs
There are no pre-programmed workouts on the SB700. Sole does have a membership based training platform, Studio. If you want to turn it into a smart bike, simply secure your tablet and follow along on Studio or the training platform of your choice, such as Zwift.
Warranty and return policy
Sole offers one of the best warranties in the industry. All frames and motors are backed by a generous lifetime warranty, while electronics and parts are covered for one year. This includes residential and light commercial use. Labor is covered for one year. What’s more, Sole will ship any parts that may be needed for a repair and send a local technician directly to you. Unlike most warranties on fitness equipment, Sole’s warranty covers normal wear and tear.
Sole provides a 30-day guarantee. If within those 30 days you are not happy with the SB700, Sole will send someone to pack it up and ship it back to their warehouse at no extra charge.
Please note this warranty does not extend to SB700 bikes purchased on Amazon or any third-party vendor.
How the Sole SB700 Stacks Up Against Other Products
Sole SB700 vs Peloton Bike
Comparing the Sole Fitness SB700 and the Peloton Bike is akin to comparing apples to oranges in terms of technology. Peloton made its mark in the world of fitness largely because of the immersive training experience it provides. It's also stacked with techy features, such as a 21.5-inch high-definition touchscreen, two 10-watt stereo speakers, a headphone and mic connector, five megapixel camera and Bluetooth 4.0. The SB700 can’t compete in this department.
But, when it comes to the build of the exercise bikes themselves, the Peloton Bike and SB700 can go head-to-head. The Peloton Bike has a slightly larger footprint, measuring four feet by two feet. Unlike the friction-based resistance on the SB700, the Peloton’s resistance is magnetic, and the bike is driven by a Poly V power transmission belt drive.
Where the SB700 boasts an impressive 48-pound flywheel, the Peloton Bike flywheel is just 22 pounds. Both bikes are constructed with steel frames and weigh about the same—135 pounds for Peloton and 141 pounds for the SB700. The weight capacity is also comparable; the Peloton weighs 297 pounds, and the SB700 weighs 300 pounds.
Sole SB700 vs NordicTrack S22i
The NordicTrack S22i often gets compared to Peloton because it's also a very tech-heavy bike. It comes equipped with a 22-inch tilt and pivot smart HD touchscreen monitor, smart adjust technology, Google Maps technology and trainer-led, immersive iFIT workouts (with a subscription). The SB700 provides a completely different workout experience, so if you're looking for an interactive training session, the NordicTrack S22i will be more to your liking.
The construction of the bikes also differs quite a bit. The NordicTrack S22i offers -10 percent decline and 20 percent incline, 24 levels of digital resistance, two-sided SPD and toe cage pedals, handlebar adjustment, vertical/horizontal seat adjustment and a premium steel frame. The flywheel on the S22i is 32 pounds compared to the SB700’s 48 pounds. The S22i also has a slightly higher user weight capacity at 350 pounds, and the bike itself weighs 205 pounds.
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Sole SB700 FAQs
How much does the Sole SB700 weigh?
The Sole SB700 weighs 141 pounds fully assembled.
Is the Sole SB700 a spin bike?
The Sole SB700 is considered a spin bike. It's an upright bike with a heavy flywheel designed to offer a similar experience as road cycling.
Does the Sole SB700 have Bluetooth?
The Sole SB700 does not have Bluetooth capabilities.
Final Thoughts
Sole Fitness is a tried-and-true name in the world of cardio-equipment manufacturers with a reputation for delivering high-quality products at an affordable price. Sole’s commitment to quality is evidenced in the Sole SB700. It's designed to offer a smooth and comfortable ride with no need to worry about overly complicated operation. While it lacks the tech found on some higher-end bikes, it's a great option for cyclists who place a premium on the build and performance of the bike itself.
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.
