Description

Compare it with a regular bike and the ElliptiGO 8C looks strange: there’s no seat. You stand on two foot platforms and push them around in an elliptical path, much like a gym elliptical trainer, except this one rolls down real roads and paths.

Why some people choose it

Runners and cyclists use it for standing cross-training outdoors. It suits people who like the elliptical motion but would rather be outside than in a gym. Because you stand, it works your body differently from sitting on a saddle.

Hills and gears

The drive turns the rear wheel through a Shimano 8-speed internally geared hub, shifted with a Shimano Alfine trigger on the handlebar. The gear range is 306%, with an average 17% step between gears. ElliptiGO rates it for hills of 20 to 30% grade, which covers rolling routes and some steep stretches.

Making it fit you

Stride length adjusts from 16 to 25 inches (41 to 64 cm), and steering height adjusts too. The operating height ranges from 50 to 58 inches. The rider weight limit is 250 lb.

Practical realities

Bike weight	44 lb (20 kg)
Length	75 in, with a 54 in wheelbase
Storing height	32 in, or 27 in with the front wheel off
Frame	7005-T6 aluminum, 20 in aluminum rims
Brakes	Linear-pull rim brakes
Warranty	5 years frame; 2 years fork, drive arms, crank arms, steering column; 1 year other parts

It arrives almost fully assembled; the steering column and front wheel go on without tools. You’ll need garage or storage space and some strength to lift it. Tires, tubes and brake pads wear out and are covered only for manufacturing defects.

Before your first ride

Wear a helmet. Check with a clinician before starting a new exercise routine, especially after surgery or an injury, or if you have balance problems, since you’ll be standing the whole time.

Coming back from an injury? The free Pain Check-Up can help you plan, and the sports injury and post-surgery groups are full of people rebuilding fitness.

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