XTERRA Fitness FB350 Folding Exercise Bike Review
The XTERRA Fitness FB350 Folding Exercise Bike has a design and set of features similar to that of the FB150 model of which it is an upgrade. There is an additional set of handlebars attached to the seat of FB350 as well as a small backrest.
Due to these additional features, FB350 comes under the category of semi-recumbent bikes.
Published: December 9, 2019.
Specifications of XTERRA FB350 Bike
- Dimensions when assembled: 40.5L x 21W x 48H inches (103L x 53W x 121H cm)
- Weight when assembled: 42.3 lbs. (19.2 kg)
- Flywheel weight: 3.3 lbs. (1.5 kg)
- Maximum user weight capacity: 225 lbs. (102 kg)
- Seat: 2-way adjustable
- Resistance: 8 levels, magnetic
- Pedals: With straps
- Fitness meter: Distance, time, speed, pulse, calories, odometer, scan
- Warranty: Frame 1 year, parts 90 days
Features of XTERRA FB350 Bike
Assembly
Assembly of FB350 is easy because the two main parts of the frame, driver and resistance elements come pre-assembled. Users only need to connect the base tubes, backrest, pedals, seat, console and handlebar. Thus the assembly doesn’t have to take more than an hour. The package includes all tools needed for the assembly and the manual has clear step-by-step instructions.
Frame
The FB350 has a durable X-type frame made of steel tubing with its main part containing two parallel tubes a bit curved at the top where there are handlebars attached. Through these two parallel tubes goes the seat bar which attaches to them at the center. The drive and resistance elements are connected to the bottom section of the seat tube.
All the steel components in the frame are coated with a corrosion-resistant powder finish. The color of the coating is light gray, which is the only color available in this model. The drive system is enclosed with a cover made of ABS material and their colors are gray and blue.
Size
When the frame is unfolded, the machine is not very large. Its base takes up around 31″ x 21″ (79 x 53 cm), however, the full length of the unit from front grips of the handlebar right up to the backrest is around 40.5″ (103 cm). That being said, the unit should fit a usage area of at least 60″ x 50″ (152 x 127 cm).
Folding Design
FB350 has a folding design. The two main parts of the frame can be folded together from the middle and locked in a folded or unfolded position using a pop-pin. After folding, the unit takes up only 20.5" x 20", thus can be very conveniently stored away.
Weight and Portability
The fully assembled unit isn’t too heavy either. Its weight is around 42.3″ (19.2 kg), which means it can be shifted and assembled only by one person. In addition, once it’s assembled, it can be easily relocated via its front base wheels.
Exercise Meter (Console)
The exercise meter of FB350 provides the same set of features as that of the Sunny SF-B2721. It sports a 2”x1” LCD display with conspicuous digits to track the most important exercise stats. These include distance, total distance, time, speed, pulse and calories. Distance is displayed only in miles and speed only in miles/hour. There is no provision of metric units.
The meter unit is not telemetric i.e. it can read only users’ pulse through the integrated stainless steel sensors. It cannot contact with Polar or similar types of HR chest strap transmitters.
The meter unit doesn’t comply with any online fitness apps or doesn’t sport any preset programs. It also doesn’t feature goal settings. It just has one button to cover all the functions. When users press this button repeatedly, they can choose the desired workout metric to be displayed or they can choose the Scan Mode which rotates all the stats showing each one for four seconds. It also has a Reset Function. By pressing and holding for a few seconds, all the values on the meter can be cleared to zero.
The angle of the console cannot be adjusted and no user profiles can be stored in it.
Power Source
Users need only two AA batteries as a power source. The unit starts up when the button is pressed or when users start pedaling. It also has a sleep mode which it enters when the bike is inactive for four minutes.
Maximum User Weight Capacity
The XTERRA FB350 is rated for a maximum user weight of 225 lbs. (102 kg).
NOTE: It should be noted that XTERRA FB350 is designed only for seated workouts and not for standing on the pedals exercises.
Seat
The saddle of FB350 is same as that of the FB150. It’s around 14″ (35 cm) wide and features a contoured surface that offers optimal comfort. It doesn’t feature air-cell cushioning like the seat of Exerpeutic 4000; but it does feature an internal layer of foam padding. The top of the seat is made of tough vinyl material with a synthetic mesh patch on the backside.
The seat is two-way adjustable i.e. up and down. Its post has seven adjustment notches. It’s meant to accommodate users from 4’10” and 5’10” (147 – 178 cm) and weighing up to 225 lbs. (102 kg).
Although XTERA FB350 doesn't weigh much and is generally gentle to the floors, it is highly recommended to place the unit on the good home gym mat in order to protect the floors, but also to make the ride even smoother.
Backrest
Backrest of FB350 is connected to a strong dual bracket. It’s not very large but has a thick foam padding that provides great lumbar support and is also foldable over the seat when the unit is folded for storage.
Handlebar
The handlebar is non-adjustable and attaches straight to the front portion of the main frame element with two bolts. Its side parts are covered by a layer of rubber-foam material so as to offer a secure and comfortable grip.
The side grips of the handlebar incorporate metallic pulse sensors. Thus, if users hold them while pedaling, the meter unit can track and display their pulse rate.
Drive System
Being a light-capacity exercise bike, the FB350 doesn’t feature an extremely heavy flywheel. Its approximate weight is 3.3 lbs. (1.5 kg) and its design is balanced in such a way as to give a smooth pedaling motion. It’s bi-directional i.e. it can be pedaled in a reverse direction. However, users cannot coast on the bike; while pedaling in reverse, the resistance remains constant.
The internal drivetrain of the machine uses a V-belt. However, the pedaling motion is almost totally quiet. It also doesn’t need greasing as a chain transmission.
The 3-piece crankset has strong steel arms. The core of the included pedals is metallic and its ABS surface is non-slip and durable. Pedals are weighted and feature adjustable straps; thus feet can be secured.
Despite the fact that the crankset is quite durable, it’s not recommended to stand on the pedals. Not only it may cause unnecessary internal wear, but also because of the particular frame design, the position would be quite awkward and can cause the user to lose balance.
The Q-factor (space between the pedals) of the bike is quite narrow. Although its exact dimension is not specified, it should be around 150mm to 160mm. This being said, users’ feet are positioned naturally on the pedals and no additional lateral stress is exerted on the knees and ankles while pedaling as that of bikes having a wider Q-factor.
Resistance System
The FB350 has a mechanical magnetic resistance system. It doesn’t need any external power source. Also, there is no role for the console to play in the resistance system.
The resistance system contains a small magnetic brake connected to the dial atop the front portion of the frame with a steel wire. When users turn the dial clockwise, the brake moves near the flywheel which causes an increase in the pedaling difficulty. This may seem old-fashioned to users who are accustomed to digital equipment, but looking at the price of FB350, it’s justified.
There are 8 levels of resistance in the unit. The first one is very, very light, which is great for warming up or recovery training. On the other hand, the 8th level provides a significantly increased pedal tension, providing users the possibility to achieve an increased cardiovascular rate within a short period of time.
Accessory Holder
The FB350 features an accessory holder which users can use to store phone, keys, remote control etc.
Maintenance
The FB350 doesn’t require much maintenance. Users just have to keep checking for loose parts and bolts regularly. The internal components don’t need any lubrication for a long period of time.
Pros of XTERRA FB350 Bike
- Strong frame which can support users up to 225 lbs.
- Padded backrest for additional lumbar support
- Large seat for optimal comfort providing 2-way adjustability
- Multi-grip handlebars with integrated pulse sensors
- Fitness meter that tracks distance, total distance, time, speed, pulse and calories
- Batteries for the meter included
- Weighted pedals having adjustable straps
- Foldable design which is great for small spaces
- Small footprint even after fully assembled
- Narrow Q-factor to eliminate any lateral stress on knees and ankles
- Transport wheels for easy portability
- Accessory holder included
- Smooth and silent operation
- Easy assembly
- Very little maintenance needed
- Affordable price
Cons of XTERRA FB350 Bike
- No preprogrammed workouts
- The fitness meter has no backlight
- Low weight limit
- No water bottle holder, aux port, speakers or workout fan included
- Console lacks Bluetooth connectivity
- Console doesn’t store any user profiles
XTERRA FB150 vs XTERRA FB350 Exercise Bike
XTERRA FB150 and XTERRA FB350 are two very similar exercise bikes, but they differ in few key features. Their most important features and specifications are given in the following chart:
| Model | XTERRA FB150 | XTERRA FB350 |
| Photo |  |
 |
| Console | LCD (Speed, Distance, Time, Calories, Pulse) | LCD (Speed, Distance, Time, Calories, Pulse) |
| Dimensions | 31.5 x 18.1 x 45.3 inches | 40.5 x 21 x 48 inches |
| Folded Dimensions | 18.1 x 18.1 x 50.97 inches | 20.5 x 21 x 50.5 inches |
| Maximum User Weight | 225 pounds | 225 pounds |
| Resistance Levels | 8 | 8 |
| Folding Frame | Yes | Yes |
| Seat Back | No | Yes |
| Seat Handles | No | Yes |
| Accessory Holder | No | Yes |
| Pulse Grip Handles | Yes | Yes |
| Amazon Link | XTERRA FB150 |
XTERRA FB350 |
Note: Amazon affiliate links open in the new windows, feel free to check them for most up-to-date offers and prices.
Main difference between XTERRA FB150 and XTERRA FB350 is that XTERRA FB350 features seat back with seat handles, which may be rather important for people with lower back issues. Also, people not having such issues may spend more time spinning their bike and thus they may burn more calories.
Also, XTERRA FB350 features accessory holder, while FB150 does not.
Note: Both units feature so-called 'Folding X-Frame', allowing the units to be folded, helping with the storage. However, elderly people may consider some 'step through' recumbent bike, which is much easier to sit on and off, like fore example, Schwinn 230 or 270 recumbent bikes.
Bottom Line
With its foldable design, quiet belt drive, manual-magnetic resistance system and fitness meter to track important workout stats, the XTERRA FB350 Bike is a great semi-recumbent bike ideal for light cardio training, stamina development, weight loss and muscle toning, for users of all fitness levels.
Although it has no pre-programmed workouts, it offers 8 levels of resistance that make the workout versatile and challenging. Its price is reasonable; thus it offers the best bang for the buck.
For more reviews and recommendations, check XTERRA Fitness FB350 Folding Exercise Bike Amazon link (link opens in the new window).
