Adjustable strength and connected cardio equipment

BowFlex Review 2026: Are Its Adjustable Weights and Connected Cardio Machines Worth It?

A detailed review of BowFlex SelectTech 552i and 1090i dumbbells, the T6 Treadmill and IC Bike SEi, including specifications, space requirements, app costs and international buying considerations.

★★★★★★★★★★4.9/5· 2 reviews
Updated July 1, 2025
BowFlex
Review note

We may not have personally tested every product. This review is based on official product information, product specifications and comparative research. It is not medical advice.

Official BowFlex SelectTech 552i adjustable dumbbell set
BowFlex SelectTech 552i Dumbbells. Official product image from BowFlex.

BowFlex is one of the most recognizable home-fitness brands, with an international catalog covering adjustable weights, treadmills, indoor bikes, compact home gyms, benches and connected training through JRNY. Its strongest appeal is space efficiency: one adjustable dumbbell can replace a rack of fixed weights, while folding cardio machines bring structured training into a home environment.

This review focuses on four products currently featured on BowFlex’s global website: the SelectTech 552i Dumbbells, SelectTech 1090i Dumbbells, T6 Treadmill and IC Bike SEi. We compare their specifications, training uses, space requirements, app dependence and important international-purchase considerations.

Pricing note: BowFlex’s global website does not publish one universal retail price. Local availability, currency, taxes, delivery, assembly, warranty and return terms vary by country and authorized seller. Every product below is therefore marked “Check local price.”

Four standout BowFlex products

1. BowFlex SelectTech 552i Dumbbells — Check local price

The 552i is BowFlex’s more accessible adjustable-dumbbell platform. Each dumbbell changes from 2 to 24 kg using a selection dial, providing 15 weight settings without requiring a full rack of fixed dumbbells.

  • Best for: general home strength training, beginners and intermediate users with limited storage space.
  • Weight range: 2–24 kg or approximately 5–52.5 lb per dumbbell.
  • Weight settings: 15 per dumbbell.
  • Space claim: designed to replace 15 conventional weight sets.
  • Dimensions: approximately 43 × 21.2 × 22.8 cm per dumbbell.
  • Included: storage trays; a dedicated stand is sold separately.
  • Main trade-off: the long dumbbell body remains the same size at light settings, and the dial mechanism should not be dropped.

2. BowFlex SelectTech 1090i Dumbbells — Check local price

Official BowFlex SelectTech 1090i adjustable dumbbell set
BowFlex SelectTech 1090i Dumbbells. Official product image from BowFlex.

The 1090i is designed for users who need substantially more resistance. Each dumbbell adjusts from 4 to 41 kg and offers 17 settings, making it more suitable for heavy rows, presses, squats and deadlift variations than the 552i.

  • Best for: experienced home lifters who need heavier adjustable dumbbells.
  • Weight range: 4–41 kg or approximately 10–90 lb per dumbbell.
  • Weight settings: 17 per dumbbell.
  • Space claim: designed to replace 17 conventional weight sets.
  • Dimensions: approximately 44.4 × 24.2 × 25.3 cm per dumbbell.
  • Included: storage trays; the stand remains optional.
  • Main trade-off: the units are large and very heavy at maximum load, making careful tray placement and controlled handling essential.

3. BowFlex T6 Treadmill — Check local price

Official BowFlex T6 folding connected treadmill
BowFlex T6 Treadmill. Official product image from BowFlex.

The T6 is a connected folding treadmill built around fast physical controls rather than a large integrated touchscreen. Users place a phone or tablet on the adjustable media shelf and can connect to supported fitness services.

  • Best for: walking, running, interval training and buyers who prefer using their own tablet or phone.
  • Top speed: up to 20 km/h or 12 mph.
  • Incline: up to 15% motorized incline.
  • Running area: 50 × 152 cm.
  • Machine weight: approximately 106 kg.
  • Maximum user weight: 147 kg or 325 lb.
  • Connectivity: supports JRNY and selected third-party services such as Peloton, Kinomap and Zwift, subject to device, country and subscription requirements.
  • Main trade-off: it needs substantial floor and ceiling clearance even when folded, and third-party digital services may require separate paid memberships.

4. BowFlex IC Bike SEi — Check local price

Official BowFlex IC Bike SEi indoor exercise bike
BowFlex IC Bike SEi. Official product image from BowFlex.

The IC Bike SEi is an indoor cycling bike with a 7-inch color display, 100 magnetic-resistance levels and broad fit adjustment. It includes small dumbbells and dual-sided pedals for either toe cages or compatible SPD cycling shoes.

  • Best for: connected indoor cycling, interval sessions and households that want multiple app choices.
  • Resistance: 100 magnetic levels.
  • Display: 18 cm or 7-inch color LCD.
  • Included weights: two 1.5 kg or 3.3 lb dumbbells.
  • Machine weight: approximately 64.1 kg with dumbbells.
  • Maximum user weight: 150 kg or 330 lb.
  • Recommended user height: approximately 147.3–195.6 cm.
  • Connectivity: JRNY-compatible and designed to connect with supported Peloton or Zwift experiences; separate subscriptions and regional restrictions may apply.
  • Main trade-off: riders supply their own phone or tablet for richer app content, and the machine is too heavy to move casually between rooms.

What makes BowFlex useful for a home gym?

BowFlex’s strongest products reduce the number of separate pieces needed for a varied workout. The adjustable dumbbells replace many fixed pairs, while the connected cardio machines support multiple training styles without requiring a dedicated commercial gym.

Space efficiency does not mean zero space. The dumbbells need stable trays and enough room for pressing, rowing and lower-body movements. The treadmill and bike require permanent floor areas, safe access around moving parts and adequate ceiling height.

SelectTech 552i versus 1090i

The deciding factor is resistance rather than technology. Both models use a weight-selection dial, storage trays and long adjustable bodies. The 552i reaches 24 kg per dumbbell and is sufficient for many users, while the 1090i extends to 41 kg for heavier strength work.

The 552i is easier to lift from the tray, move and use during high-repetition workouts. The 1090i provides more room for strength progression but requires greater care at the highest settings. Buyers should select the lightest model that still supports their realistic long-term goals.

Are adjustable dumbbells as good as fixed dumbbells?

Adjustable dumbbells offer exceptional space efficiency and quick weight changes. They are well suited to controlled presses, rows, curls, lunges, squats and Romanian deadlift variations.

Fixed dumbbells remain simpler and more tolerant of rough handling. SelectTech products contain plates, dials and internal selection components, so they should be returned carefully to their trays and never dropped. Their long shape can also feel different during curls and movements close to the torso.

T6 treadmill space and installation

The T6 measures approximately 194.1 × 89.8 × 179.5 cm when open and about 111.8 × 89.8 × 172.7 cm when folded. BowFlex lists a minimum ceiling height equal to the user’s height plus 52.7 cm.

At roughly 106 kg, the treadmill should be assembled in or near its intended training area. Buyers should confirm doorway clearance, electrical requirements, floor protection and delivery options before ordering.

T6 controls, cushioning and app flexibility

QuickDial controls are designed for rapid speed and incline changes during intervals. The MaxReact drive system focuses on responsive adjustment, while the FlexZone deck provides cushioning across the 50 cm-wide running surface.

The machine can work as a conventional treadmill without committing to one large built-in display. This gives users freedom to replace their tablet independently, but it also means the richest connected experiences depend on a separate device and app membership.

IC Bike SEi fit and riding experience

The IC Bike SEi provides vertical and horizontal adjustment at the seat and handlebars, covering a recommended user-height range from about 4 feet 10 inches to 6 feet 5 inches. Dual-sided pedals support ordinary athletic shoes through toe cages and compatible cycling shoes through SPD clips.

Magnetic resistance generally produces a smooth, relatively quiet ride, but setup still matters. Saddle height, reach and handlebar position should be adjusted carefully to avoid unnecessary knee, hip, back or wrist discomfort.

JRNY membership and third-party subscriptions

The featured products currently advertise a two-month JRNY trial for eligible new members. BowFlex states that the membership automatically renews at the then-current rate unless cancelled under the applicable app-store or regional terms.

Third-party services such as Peloton, Zwift or Kinomap may require their own subscriptions. Compatibility can differ by country, operating system and product model. Buyers should confirm that the exact app they want is supported in their region before purchasing equipment around that feature.

International pricing, warranty and returns

BowFlex’s global site provides specifications and a “Where to Buy” route rather than one international checkout price. Local distributors may set different prices and may bundle delivery, assembly, extended protection or membership offers differently.

Warranty length, spare-parts support and return eligibility also depend on the country and seller. Large equipment can be expensive to return, so the authorized retailer’s written policy should be reviewed before payment. Buyers should also confirm whether adjustable dumbbells are sold as a pair or individually in their market.

Maintenance and durability

SelectTech dumbbells should be kept clean, dry and stored in their trays. The selection dial should only be turned when the dumbbell is fully seated. Damaged plates or a dial that does not engage correctly should not be forced.

Treadmills require belt, deck and fastener inspection according to the manual, while indoor bikes benefit from periodic checks of pedals, crank hardware, adjustment knobs and frame stability. Software-connected products may also require firmware or app updates.

Safety considerations

Adjustable weights should be checked before every lift to confirm that all selected plates are secure. Exercises should be performed over a clear surface, and the products should never be dropped intentionally.

Cardio users should begin at conservative speed, incline and resistance settings. People with cardiovascular, balance, orthopedic or other medical concerns should obtain individualized professional advice before beginning a demanding program.

What we like

  • SelectTech dumbbells replace large fixed-weight collections.
  • The 552i and 1090i serve clearly different strength levels.
  • T6 provides full running speed and incline without requiring a built-in touchscreen.
  • IC Bike SEi offers 100 resistance levels and broad rider adjustment.
  • JRNY and selected third-party integrations provide flexible training options.
  • Storage trays, folding design and media holders support home use.
  • Official international pages provide detailed metric and imperial specifications.

What could be better

  • International prices and policies are not standardized.
  • SelectTech dumbbells are bulky and must not be dropped.
  • The 1090i units are difficult to handle at maximum weight.
  • T6 requires significant floor, ceiling and delivery clearance.
  • Connected features may involve several separate subscriptions.
  • Large machines are expensive and inconvenient to return.
  • App compatibility can vary by region and operating system.

Which BowFlex product should you choose?

  • Choose SelectTech 552i for the best balance of space savings and general home strength training.
  • Choose SelectTech 1090i when heavier progressive strength work is the priority.
  • Choose T6 Treadmill for connected walking and running with your own phone or tablet.
  • Choose IC Bike SEi for smooth indoor cycling, broad fit adjustment and app flexibility.

Who should consider BowFlex?

BowFlex is best suited to households that want recognizable, space-conscious fitness equipment and are willing to pay for integrated adjustment systems and connected features. The adjustable dumbbells are particularly compelling when a fixed rack would use too much room.

The brand is less suitable for people who regularly drop weights, buyers who move frequently or users seeking the least expensive equipment per kilogram of resistance. Large cardio machines also require a stable long-term training space.

Final verdict

BowFlex remains a strong home-fitness option because its best products address real space and convenience problems. The SelectTech 552i is the broadest recommendation for general strength training, while the 1090i serves users who would otherwise outgrow a lighter adjustable set.

The T6 and IC Bike SEi are more complex purchases. Their performance specifications are competitive, but the final value depends on local price, delivery, warranty support and whether the buyer will use JRNY or another connected platform consistently.

Overall, BowFlex equipment is worth considering when space efficiency and connected home training are priorities. International buyers should treat the global specifications as a starting point and obtain a complete local quote—including delivery, assembly, warranty and subscription costs—before ordering.

Editorial note: This review is based on official BowFlex global product information checked on August 1, 2026. Availability, prices, promotions, app compatibility, warranties and return policies vary by country and can change. The article does not claim firsthand product testing or guaranteed fitness outcomes.

Pros and cons

What stands out

  • Excellent space efficiency
  • Broad strength and cardio range
  • Useful app flexibility
  • Clear product specifications
  • Strong home-gym convenience

Trade-offs

  • No universal global pricing
  • Adjustable weights are bulky
  • Equipment must be handled carefully
  • Large machines need permanent space
  • Subscriptions may add cost

Rating details

Space efficiency4.8
Product versatility4.9
Build and specifications4.7
Connected training4.8
International value clarity4.7

Product details

BrandBowFlex
Website reviewedBowFlex Global
Primary categoryHome strength and cardio equipment
552i range2–24 kg per dumbbell; 15 settings
1090i range4–41 kg per dumbbell; 17 settings
T6 performanceUp to 20 km/h and 15% incline
IC Bike SEi resistance100 magnetic levels
JRNY offer checked2-month trial for eligible new members
PricingVaries by country and authorized retailer
Review typeIndependent editorial research review

Learn More

Health disclaimer

Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using supplements or making significant changes to diet, exercise or treatment.

Customer reviews

What readers say

2 reviews

Kindra Waldrup
★★★★★★★★★★5.0

Greetings

Include wellchoiceguide.com in Google's Search Index to be visible in Google search results!

Include wellchoiceguide.com now:

helpindex.pro

Eloy Zarate
★★★★★★★★★★5.0

Greetings

Submit wellchoiceguide.com in Google's Search Index and have it be displayed in web search results!

Feature wellchoiceguide.com here:

searchregister.org

Join the discussion

Write a review

Share your experience with other readers.

Your rating
Keep comparing

More in Fitness Equipment