Avoid the Weslo Pursuit R 4.8 Recumbent Bike

The Weslo Pursuit R 4.8 recumbent bike is a cheap model that should be avoided, especially since you have alternatives with a number of better-built bikes out there.

The Bike

The large LCD tracks your time, distance, speed, pulse, and calories. It includes a Target Pacer, which is an indicator light to let you know if you need to slow down or speed up during your programmed exercise.

The Weslo Pursuit R 4.8 features:

• Adjustable Resistance
• 5 Personal Trainer Workouts
• Dual-Grip Easy Pulse Heart Rate Monitor
• Adjustable seat
• CoolAire Workout Fan
• Max user capacity: 250 lbs
• Dimensions/Weight: 55"L x 20"W x 42"H / 81 lbs
• Warranty: 90-day parts and labor

The Buzz

UPDATE:  The Pursuit R 4.8 recumbent has been discontinued.  If you're interested in buying a Weslo exercise bike check out the selection of popular models on sale at Amazon.

The Weslo Pursuit R 4.8 recumbent bike features a step-through design, digital resistance control, built-in dual-grip heart rate sensors on the handlebars, and adjustable resistance to make the workout intensity easier or more difficult.

Other features include an oversized seat with lumbar support backrest, a 250-pound user capacity, and a personal workout fan on the console to help keep you cool.

All of these features sound great, but reviews from dissatisfied Weslo owners indicate that many features don’t work as advertised.

Our Take

Even at the low price of $249, the Weslo Pursuit R 4.8 recumbent bike is actually the top-of-the-line model of Weslo’s seven models.

However, the weak 90-day parts warranty is a red flag that this recumbent is built with cheap components on a flimsy frame, and something will break on it soon enough.

We suggest you forget the Weslo brand and check out the solid reviews coming in on the inexpensive line of Stamina recumbents, particularly the Magnetic Fusion Exercise Bike for less than $299, or the surprising Marcy Recumbent Cycle for under $200.

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