ProForm 235 CSX Recumbent Bike | Achieve Your Fitness Goals Faster

The ProForm 235 CSX Recumbent Bike is a much more affordable price than other Proform exercise bikes. However, it is still high with various smart functions and options like the 18 different resistance levels provided by the inertia enhanced very smooth magnetic flywheel, a maximum user weight, and quicker gear ratio for more natural cycling.

It has an extensive high-tech blue-tint LCD panel and even a pro-style power meter, an EKG heart rate monitor with the info collected from the sensors on both handles. The intelligent computerized panel is relatively easy to view and manage, and you will get to monitor your exercise goals and the whole thing is easy to use.

You don’t adjust the resistance levels through a knob in the middle like you would with other cheaper budget bikes, but you will find them on display through a resistance push button. And you can choose how much intensity and challenge you want to let you achieve your fitness goals faster, whether burning calories and fat or toning your lower body- legs and core and getting fitter and healthier.

The 235 CSX looks good in primarily gray with white and red bits. It weighs 102 pounds and can have a user with a maximum weight of 275 pounds and measures 46 x 24 x 44 inches- it has a space-saving design. It has a great step-through recumbent design, and the big comfy seat with lumbar support is adjustable for your comfort, depending on how tall or short you are.

Learn more in my complete review below!

Product: ProForm 235 CSX Recumbent Bike

Price: For a great deal on this bike, merely go here on Amazon

Warranty: Frame 7 years / Parts 90 days

My rating: 8/10

Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Affiliate Program participant, I earn commissions on purchases made through links in this post. Full disclosure

Details and Specifications

• Assembled dimensions: 56L x 24W x 44H inches (142L x 61W x 112H cm)
• Shipping weight: 102 lbs (46.2 kg)
• Weight capacity: 275 lbs (125 kg)
• Seat: Adjustable
• Pedals: With adjustable straps
• Resistance: Eddy current, 18 levels
• Drive: Belt
• Console: 18 workout programs
• Extras: Sound system, tablet holder, bottle holder
• Warranty: Frame 7 years, Parts 90 days

235 CSX Frame construction

The ProForm 235 CSX recumbent bike features a steel frame with a durable build that can withstand up to 275 lbs (125 kg). The base of the structure, along with the console mast and the seat’s frame, features a black paint finish, corrosion-resistant. The adjustment rail of the seat, on the other hand, features a gray finish. The bike’s construction also integrates several plastic parts, the console’s casing, and the covers of the resistance system.

Its weight is close to 100 lbs, and this weight adds quite a bit of stability. Plus, the rear base bar comes with a set of adjustable levelers. The relocation of the assembled unit isn’t too difficult, despite its weight. Its front base caps rotate and can act as transport wheels.

The assembled unit is relatively large; its assembled length is approx. 56″ (142 cm), while its width is 2′ (61 cm). Several other sources state that the bike’s height is 61″ (155 cm), which is incorrect. Its highest point is the top of the console and reaches approx. 44″ (112 cm) above floor level. Along with these dimensions, ProForm recommends assigning a usage space for the unit of a minimum of two feet all around it.

One last aspect to mention here regards the bike’s step-through design. For instance, this can be quite helpful for users with disabilities or elderly users as it provides easy access to the seat.

Seat and handlebars

The ProForm 235 CSX recumbent bike has an ergonomic seat. The seat and the backrest feature a 2″ layer of foam padding with durable vinyl upholstery. In addition, the base frame and adjustment rail are durable enough to support users up to 275 lbs (125 kg).

The whole seat assembly is adjustable. It can move forward or backward on its rail, and you can lock it in the desired position via the lever on the right side. If you’re wondering, the backrest cannot be adjusted independently from the seat. Instead, it moves along the rail with the whole seat assembly.

The bike has two handlebars, one attached to the seat and one attached to the console mast. Both handlebar sets are non-adjustable. They have rubberized grips for extra comfort, and the front handlebars also have integrated pulse sensors.

Now, there are two main downsides to mention here. The first one regards the pulse sensors. There would have been a better placement in the seat handlebars, not in the front handlebars. But since the console mast comes pretty close to the user, holding the front handlebars isn’t too awkward for other bikes.

The other downside regards the placement of the front handlebars. Several users, 5’8″ (172 cm) or taller, have reported that they have been hitting them with their knees during exercises. Therefore, I don’t recommend this recumbent exercise bike to users taller than 5’7″ (170 cm).

235 CSX Resistance System

The ProForm 235 CSX exercise bike features an eddy current resistance system that consists of a small servo motor and a magnetic brake. Therefore, the console requires 4 D-type batteries to function, which (are not included). The bike also has an optional power adapter, which is not included.

The bike’s resistance is only adjustable from the + / – buttons on the console. As you adjust the resistance, the servo motor changes the magnetic brake position to the flywheel, increasing or decreasing the intensity of the internal magnetic field. This way, the pedal resistance is also increased or decreased.

Like most other bikes with a magnetic resistance system, there is no contact between the brake pad and the flywheel. Thus, the usage of the cycle generates almost no noise.

This ProForm exercise bike provides 18 levels of resistance. The lower levels (1-3) give very little pedal tension, which is excellent for users with disabilities or needing recovery training. The 17-18 levels of resistance, on the other hand, simulate a steep climb and offer the possibility to perform a more intense cardio workout and leg muscle burn.

Drive System

Like most other exercise bikes with a magnetic resistance system, the ProForm 235 CSX features a belt drive system. Its internal transmission integrates a heavy-duty poly-v belt, which is stretch-resistant and lasts for many years of use. Like any other belt drive system, it comes with three main advantages. First, you don’t have to lubricate it; two, it generates less vibration than a chain; three, it promotes an almost entirely silent drive.

The bike’s internal flywheel is inertia-enhanced. In other words, most of its weight is in its perimeter to provide a more consistent momentum and a steadier motion. It weighs 14 lbs (6.3 kg), a mid-range weight for a recumbent bike.

The crankset features solid steel crank arms. However, since this is a recumbent bike, it’s not made for standing up on the pedals. Both pedals are weighted and feature a non-slip surface. In addition, they’re equipped with adjustable straps to secure your feet during pedaling correctly.

Console

The ProForm 235 CSX recumbent bike features a pretty impressive console for this price range. To begin with, it has an LCD with a blue LED backlight. The display has three main sections.

The top part indicates the speed in revolutions per minute (RPM), the power output in watts, and your heart rate when using the handlebar sensors.

It also shows the resistance level for a few seconds when you change it. The display shows each one of these metrics for several seconds.

The center section of the display shows distance and time. The distance can be set either in miles or kilometers. If a goal for time is selected, the display will show the time remaining for reaching that target instead of the elapsed time. These two metrics will display alternatively, each one for a few seconds.

The bottom section of the display shows pedaling speed and calories burned. You can set up the unit to indicate speed in km/h or mph. The speed and calories metrics will alternate for the middle and top sections of the display; each one displays for a few seconds.

The console does not have any online connection capabilities. However, it does have 18 preset workout programs in its memory. There are two categories: Watts Workouts and Calorie Workouts. The Watts Workouts focus on resistance and watts, while the Calorie Workouts concentrate on strength and speed.

Each program category has its button on the console. When selecting a preset workout, the bike will auto-adjust resistance depending on each program segment.

Amenities

Apart from the fitness-oriented features, the console also integrates two extras. One is the sound system; the other is the tablet holder. The sound system consists of two small speakers placed on the bottom of the unit. In addition, there’s an audio jack input on the console and controls for sound volume.

The console is compatible with most smartphones, tablets, or MP3 players. The tablet holder is above the unit’s controls, and it can accommodate most tablets or phones. However, a tablet placed on it will cover the console display at least partially.

235 CSX Assembly and Maintenance

The internal parts, including the servo motor, the flywheel, the belt, the pulley, and the crank arms, are pre-assembled and attached to the mainframe. Thus, you only have to connect the base bars, the seat, the backrest, the console mast, the handlebars, the console, and the pedals.

Therefore, it may take up to an hour of your time. An essential toolkit (is included), but you will need a Phillips screwdriver. The manual provides all the necessary information and schematics for the unit’s assembly.

You only have to check the bike for any loose bolts and parts from time to time and remove the dust from it for maintenance. The internal components don’t require lubrication or any other maintenance, not for a few years of use.

Pros

• Sturdy frame – can support users up to 275 lbs;

  

• Adjustable stabilizers on the rear base;
• Step-through design;
• Foam-padded seat and backrest;
• Adjustable seat;
• Pulse sensors integrated into the front handlebars;
• Silent eddy current resistance system with 18 tension levels;
• Weighted pedals with adjustable straps;
• Three-panel LCD console with blue LED backlight;
• 18 workout programs available;
• The sound system included;
• Tablet holder included;
• Bottle holder included;
• Little maintenance is required;
• Easy to assemble;
• Excellent warranty.

Cons

• Front handlebars are too low for users taller than 5’8″;
• Batteries do not come with the machine;
• A power adapter does not come included with the machine;
• A tablet placed on the tablet holder will cover the console LCD.

ProForm 235 CSX Recumbent Bike Summary

The ProForm 235 CSX is a mid-range recumbent bike featuring an automatic magnetic resistance system with 18 tension levels and a console with 18 preset workout programs. It comes with a comfortable and adjustable seat, and it’s sturdy enough to support users up to 275 lbs.

It’s excellent for light to medium-intensity cardio workouts, weight loss, stamina development, recovery training, and muscle toning. And finally, it’s one of the most affordable recumbent bikes with a motorized magnetic resistance system.

I hope you found this article helpful and informative. Would you please speak up if you have anything you’d like to share on the topic or any opinions about my website? I look forward to your comments, questions, and the sharing of ideas.

Please note: Before starting any exercise program, you should consult your physician to determine if you have any medical or physical conditions that could put your health and safety at risk or prevent you from using the equipment properly. In addition, your physician’s advice is essential if you are taking medication that affects your heart rate, blood pressure, or cholesterol level.