Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer Review

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A very good mid range elliptical trainer option to consider, the Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer has a whole lot of neat features that you are probably going to like. In terms of mid range elliptical machines, it is quite impressive that this particular model comes in at a fairly low price, yet manages to still be one heck of a piece of equipment.

Overview

If you would like a nice little overview of the Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer, you can take a look at this description video.

Main Features

  • 24 levels of magnetic resistance
  • Resistance is easy to adjust
  • Double transmission for smoothness
  • 3-piece crank
  • 18-inch stride length
  • Dual action handlebars
  • Heartbeat sensors
  • Comes with transportation wheels
  • 270-pound user weight limit
  • Leg stabilizers
  • Backlit LCD computer with 21 preset programs
  • Water bottle holder
  • Phone and tablet holder
  • Adjustable base with non-slip feet

Dimensions & Weight

Yes, the Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer is not the smallest of the mid range elliptical trainers around, but also not the largest by far. This particular elliptical is actually of a decent size considering how high quality it is.

  • Length: 57.5 inches
  • Width: 24 inches
  • Height: 66 inches
  • Weight: 93 pounds

Assembly

The assembly process for the Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer is not overly difficult, but it is not easy either. One person should be able to get it done in a little over 1 hour. The instructions are well detailed and all of the parts and tools for assembly come included. The machine itself does weigh close to 100 pounds and there are many individual parts, but all in all, in terms of assembling a full piece of workout equipment, the Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer is comparatively easy.

Warranty

The warranty for the Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer is not all that great. It is a 1-year limited warranty.

What We Like About The Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer

When it comes to mid range elliptical machines, the Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer has some pretty neat features that we definitely need to talk about in some detail.

One of the things that we like about the Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer is that it functions very smoothly. This is in part thanks to the 21 levels of magnetic resistance provided to you. The magnetic resistance is very quiet, it functions well, and can be easily adjusted with the backlit LCD display. When it comes to the quality of the resistance, the Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer uses a double transmission system which is shown to be much smoother than a single transmission system.

Something else that we like about the Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer is that it is very durable. It is made with high-quality metals to ensure that it will last for years to come. Moreover, the Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer uses an advanced 3-piece crank system which is extremely rugged. This elliptical machine is so durable that it can hold up to 270 pounds in user weight.

Yet another aspect of the Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer that we like is the advanced backlit LCD display. It is large and easy to read, plus it has backlighting to make seeing it in dark conditions a breeze. This display will show you details such as your RPM, time, speed, distance, calories burned, and much more. The heartbeat sensors on the static handles will also allow the display to show your cardio output. The LCD display comes with 3 computer goal programs as well as over 20 different preset workout programs.

Another thing that we like about the Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer is its extreme versatility. It has 2 pairs of handlebars, one pair which is static, and the other which moves. This means you can work out your upper body if you so choose.

The comfort and user friendliness factor of the Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer are also something we like. The double transmission it uses is compact and allows for a narrow stride path that feels natural. Also, the size of the Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer makes it pretty convenient for a smaller space. There is also the fact that the textured foot pedals are non-slip and comfortable to stand on, plus the handlebars are padded for the comfort of your hands. What makes the Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer even more convenient is the set of transportation wheels that it comes with.

What We Don’t Like About The Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer

In all reality, the Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer is a very good mid range option to go with, but there are a couple bones that do need picking.

One of the things that we don’t like about the Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer is that it does not allow the user to change the incline, which can be a problem for anyone looking for a more intense workout session.

Some people have noted that the Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer is a little bit wobbly and might squeak a little bit. This is not a major issue, but definitely worth mentioning.

Alternatives To The Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer

So you have a little point of comparison, let’s talk about some of the other mid range models which you could compare the Fitness Reality E5500XL to.

Nautilus E614 Elliptical

When it comes to functionality and comfort, the Nautilus E614 Elliptical is a good alternative to consider. It is going to cost you several hundred dollars more than the Fitness Reality E5500XL, but it does come with a fan, speakers, a USB port, data export capabilities, it has a higher user weight limit, and is a little more durable and stable, plus the incline can be adjusted. On the other hand, the Fitness Reality E5500XL does have more resistance levels and a neat dual transmission system, plus it is more space friendly too.

Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine

When compared to the Fitness Reality E5500XL Elliptical Trainer, the Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine is more expensive, but also has many more features. In terms of what the Schwinn 430 can do, it is actually fairly similar to the Nautilus E614, both of which have great stability, are built to last, have fans, speakers, USB drives, and data export, and both of which have a higher user weight limit than the Fitness Reality E5500XL. The Fitness Reality E5500XL will however help you save some money, plus it has more resistance levels, not to mention that it saves more space and weighs less too.

Final Thoughts On The Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer

The bottom line is that the Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer is money well spent. As far as mid range elliptical trainers go, this one is actually fairly inexpensive, yet it manages to not sacrifice too much integrity or too many features. If you are looking for a challenging workout, the Fitness Reality E5500XL Magnetic Elliptical Trainer is a fantastic option to consider.