Beyond the Basics: What Makes the 3G Cardio Elite UB X Worth Every Penny
Are you seeking a workout buddy that won’t take up half your living room? Meet the 3G Cardio Elite UB X Upright Bike. It’s built like a tank but fits in a cozy corner. Don’t let its compact size fool you—this little powerhouse is reinforced with heavy-duty steel and can support up to 350-pound riders. The best part? Thanks to its step-through design, you can hop on and off easily, perfect for those early morning workouts when you’re still half asleep.
Want a smooth, quiet ride that won’t wake up the whole house? The Elite UB X’s magnetic resistance system has got you covered. With 16 different resistance levels, you can switch between “easy breezy” and “okay, now I’m sweating” whenever you want. Boredom? Not a chance. You’ve got 16 different programs to play with – 12 preset workouts, three heart rate programs, a one-watt program, and you can even create custom routines.
The control panel is refreshingly simple (because who needs a PhD to ride a bike?). One dial controls everything, and the large digital display shows all your stats in big, precise numbers. Track your time, RPM, watts, distance, calories, and heart rate while pedaling to fitness. Up to four people can save their profiles – perfect for turning your home workouts into a family affair.
If you’re old school, grab the pulse sensors on the handlebars or use the wireless heart-rate strap for hands-free monitoring. Either way, you’ll know exactly when you’re in the sweet spot for maximum results.

Learn more in my complete review below!
Product: 3G Cardio Elite UB X Upright Bike
Price: For a great deal on this bike, merely go here on Amazon
Warranty: Frame lifetime / Parts 7 years / Labor 1 year (see light-commercial warranty below)
My rating: 9.25/10
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: 41″L x 22 1/2″W x 55″H (104L x 57W x 140H cm)
- Assembled weight: 91 lbs (41 kg)
- Supported weight: 350 lbs (159 kg)
- Handlebars: Fixed, with pulse sensors
- Seat: 4-way adjustable
- Pedals: With adjustable straps
- Resistance: Motorized magnetic, 16 levels
- Console: 16 programs (plus manual mode), four user profiles
- FreeSync with FTMS Bluetooth
- Amenities: Bottle holder, accessory holder, tablet shelf
- Warranty:
In-Home: Frame lifetime / Parts 7 years / Labor 1 year
Light Commercial: Parts 3 years / Labor 1 year
Built Like a Tank (But Not as Heavy)

Let’s discuss what makes the 3G Cardio Elite UB X upright bike special. First up, this thing’s built to last. Its rock-solid steel frame will happily support riders up to 350 pounds. Think light-commercial quality—the bike you’d find in a small gym, but perfect for home use. Sure, it has some plastic parts covering the inner workings, but where does it count? It’s all steel, baby.
Now, if you’re worried about space (who isn’t these days?), here’s some good news: this bike’s got a surprisingly small footprint. At just 44 inches long and 22.5 inches wide, it’ll fit nicely in that corner of your room you’ve been eyeing for your home gym. Just remember to leave about two feet of space around it – you know, so you can hop on and off without doing an awkward sideways shuffle.
Here’s something cool: while the bike weighs 91 pounds (about twice your average road bike), that extra heft is a feature, not a bug. It means this bike stays put when you’re pushing through those high-intensity intervals: no wobbling, no rocking – just stable, solid performance. And don’t worry about moving it around; they’ve added transport wheels at the front, so you can still roll it out of the way when needed.
The frame comes wrapped in a rugged, double-coated paint job that fights off scratches and rust like a champ. Keep it inside, though – this bike’s like a cat; it’s strictly indoor-only. Let it get rained on; those electronic bits won’t be too happy with you.
Let’s Talk About Comfort: The Seat and Handlebars
If you’re tired of those tiny, uncomfortable spin bike seats that feel like torture devices, you’ll love what the 3G Cardio Elite UB X brings. This upright bike has a full-sized seat designed for human comfort (imagine that!). They’ve added plenty of cushioning and wrapped it in sweat-proof faux leather with nice contouring – your backside will thank you.

If you are not feeling the standard seat? No worries! You’ve got options. You can easily swap it out for any compatible replacement seat or add a gel cover for extra cushiony goodness. It’s all about making it work for you.
Here’s where it gets terrific: this bike is the chameleon of exercise equipment. The seat adjusts four ways (up, down, front, back), with ten different height positions spaced about 1.5 inches apart. Plus, you can slide the seat forward or back several inches. Whether you’re 5 feet tall or tower at 6’5″, this bike’s got you covered. And it’s built tough – ready to support riders up to 350 pounds.
Now, about those handlebars – while they’re fixed in place (no adjustments here), they’re pretty clever in their design. You can grip them several different ways – parallel, horizontal, or upright – whatever feels natural for your riding style. They’ve even built pulse sensors into the lower section so you can keep tabs on your heart rate during your workout. The whole thing is wrapped in thick, high-density foam that gives you a secure grip, even when things get sweaty.
Introducing the Elite UB X’s Resistance System
Meet the 3G Cardio Elite UB X upright bike, a real game-changer with its motorized eddy current resistance system. It’s on par with the Life Fitness C1, giving you smooth and automatic resistance adjustment from the console. Just plug it into a power outlet (100V—240V—50/60Hz) to get started, but don’t worry—it comes with an adapter and power cord.
Here’s the cool part: the resistance system includes a magnetic flywheel, a magnetic brake pad, and a servo motor. When you tweak the resistance on the console, the servo motor shifts the magnetic brake pad to change the flywheel’s drag. Since the flywheel and brake pad never actually touch, there’s no wear and tear, and it’s super quiet!
The console’s large dial makes adjusting the resistance easy. Several preset programs can also automatically handle resistance changes.
With 16 resistance levels, this 3G Cardio upright bike has something for everyone. If you’re looking for a challenge, levels 14-16 mimic a steep climb for intense cardio that gets those muscles burning. On the flip side, levels 1-3 offer a gentle resistance, perfect for warming up or recovery training.
What Makes It Move?
Let’s talk about what powers this bike. The 3G Cardio Elite UB X uses a belt drive system – and trust me, that’s a good thing. Have you ever been annoyed by a squeaky exercise bike? Not happening here. The belt drive is whisper-quiet when you pedal, and you won’t have to mess around with greasy lubricants.

It isn’t some flimsy belt that’ll give up on you after a few months. It’s built to last, tough enough to handle years of daily abuse – even in those busy commercial gyms where it’s running practically non-stop.
Now, about that flywheel – it’s a pretty clever piece of engineering. It’s weighted around the edges (that’s what “perimeter-weighted” means in plain English), giving you a smooth ride without that jerky, stepping-machine feeling. While it’s not the heaviest flywheel out there, it hits that sweet spot where your pedaling feels natural and consistent.
Want to mix things up? You can pedal backward, too! This technique is targeting different muscle groups.
The crankset (the part connecting the pedals) is solid steel and built in three pieces – pretty robust stuff. But here’s an important heads-up: even though it’s sturdy, this bike’s design doesn’t support standing up while you ride. Keep your butt in the seat, and you’ll be good to go.
Let’s finish with those pedals—they’re pretty neat. They have a metal core with heavy-duty nylon wrapped around it. Here’s a cool feature: they have little weights that make them always flip right-side-up when you’re not using them. No more awkward reaching down to flip your pedal over! Plus, they come with adjustable straps and standard threads, so you can swap them out for different ones if you want to.
Let’s Talk About the Elite UB X Console
Have you ever stared at a fitness equipment display and felt you needed a PhD? Well, good news – the 3G Cardio Elite UB X upright bike keeps things refreshingly simple. It shares the same user-friendly console as its recumbent sibling, featuring a large LCD screen with bright blue backlighting that’s readable (no squinting required!).
Here’s what makes this console special: instead of forcing you to play that annoying game of cycling through different stats, it shows you everything at once on a multi-panel display. Time, distance, speed, RPM, watts, calories, pulse – it’s all right there, all the time. Pretty neat, right?

Now, regarding heart rate monitoring, you have options. If you want to get fancy, the console comes with a wireless chest strap, but if that’s not your style, grab the handlebars. They have built-in EKG sensors that’ll do the job just fine. Your choice; no pressure!
Want to know how many calories you’re burning? The console has you covered. Enter basic information about yourself—the usual suspects like gender, age, height, and weight—and it’ll give you accurate calorie and energy output readings. And yes, it displays everything in miles and kilometers because the console is thoughtful.
The best part? Using this thing is a breeze. There’s one central control knob that handles both resistance adjustments and menu navigation (whoever designed this clearly understands the value of simplicity). The Start/Stop button is particularly clever – it lets you pause your workout without messing up your entire program. Perfect for those times when you’re mixing bike sessions with other exercises or, let’s be honest when you need a quick water break.
Do you ever need to start fresh? Just hit Reset, and boom—everything goes back to zero. There’s also a recovery function button because sometimes you need to know how well you’re bouncing back from that intense workout you just crushed.
Your Complete Guide to the 3G Cardio Elite UB X Bike’s Workout Options
Let’s talk about making your workouts more exciting! Turn your tablet or mobile device into a fully interactive display for free! You don’t have to pay for technology you already own. With 3G Cardio, you can own the best of both worlds.
If you want simple-to-use, old-school built-in programs, they have them. No updates, no memberships, no problems! If you want to connect to the world, they also have that free, with FreeSync™. Connect your 3G Cardio equipment to your tablet or phone with FreeSync™ using FTMS Bluetooth.
Enjoy an interactive experience by choosing different Play Store apps from Android™ and Apple ™ like Zwift™ or Kino Maps™ (some apps require monthly memberships). Let your tablet or mobile device become a fully functional, interactive electronic display. FreeSync™ allows your device to change elevation or resistance, send and receive workout data, and, if you get bored with an app from the Google Play Store or Apple Store, find a new app and move on!

Built-in Programs
Here’s where it gets interesting: You’ve got 12 preset programs that will help you crush different fitness goals. Whether you’re trying to shed a few pounds, boost your endurance, or tackle some heart-pumping intervals, there’s a program for that: three heart rate programs and a unique watt program round things out.
But wait, there’s more! (Sorry, couldn’t resist.) The bike lets you set specific goals for your workouts. Want to burn 300 calories? Ride for 30 minutes? Hit a certain distance? Just punch in your target, and the bike will keep track until you hit it.
One of the most remarkable features is the ability to create four different user profiles. Therefore, if you share the bike with family members or roommates, they get their custom settings and programs. No more messing with someone else’s preferred resistance levels!
And here’s a neat trick: after each workout, the bike gives you a recovery score from F1 (you’re Superman/Superwoman) to F6 (room for improvement). It’s like getting a fitness report card that helps you track your progress over time.
Setting Up Your Elite UB X Bike – Easier Than You Think!
Good news: when your Elite UB X bike arrives, it’s almost assembled! The complicated parts—like the drive system and resistance mechanisms—are constructed and safely tucked away under protective covers.

Here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Attach the base
- Pop in the seat post and seat
- Connect the console mast
- Set up the handlebars
- Install the console
- Snap-on the pedals
Don’t worry—even if you’re not particularly handy, this whole process should take about 30 minutes, tops. The manual provides crystal-clear instructions for each step and includes all the tools you’ll need right in the box. No desperate searches through your garage are required!
Taking Care of Your Bike
Keeping your Elite UB X in tip-top shape is surprisingly simple. Just wipe it down regularly to keep it clean, and occasionally check that all the parts are secure and the bolts aren’t loose. The best part? All the internal components come pre-lubricated from the factory, so you won’t need to worry about greasing anything up for quite a while. It’s the low-maintenance exercise buddy you’ve been looking for!
Pros
- Durable, commercial-grade construction;
- Aesthetic, professional-looking design;
- Can support users up to 350 lbs;
- Adjustable stabilizers;
- Transport wheels at the front;
- Ergonomic, large seat;
- The seat is 4-way adjustable;
- Multi-grip handlebar;
- EKG sensors integrated into the handlebars;
- Motorized magnetic resistance system with 16 settings available;
- Very smooth, almost silent belt drive;
- Balanced, perimeter-weighted, mid-range flywheel for consistent momentum;
- Weighted pedals with adjustable straps;
- A large LCD with a backlight;
- FreeSync with FTMS Bluetooth;
- 12 preset programs, three heart rate programs, one 1-watt program, and one manual program;
- Four user profiles;
- Countdown settings for time, distance, calories, and heart rate;
- Telemetric console (can read pulse via an HR chest strap);
- HR chest strap included;
- Tablet holder included;
- The bottle holder included the following;
- Maintenance-Free;
- Excellent warranty.
Cons
- It doesn’t have quick resistance settings (only the turn dial on the console);
- No cooling fan;
- It doesn’t have a sound system.
Final Thoughts on the 3G Cardio Elite UB X Upright Bike: A Premium Fitness Investment
Are you seeking a gym-quality upright bike that won’t buckle under pressure? The 3G Cardio Elite UB X might be your perfect match. This light-commercial exercise bike packs incredible features into a surprisingly compact frame, making it a standout choice for home gyms and small fitness studios.
At its core, the bike features a smooth, whisper-quiet motorized eddy current resistance system. With 16 distinct resistance levels, you can easily transition from gentle warm-ups to leg-burning sprints. The bike also comes loaded with 16 pre-programmed workouts, taking the guesswork out of your training sessions, whether aiming for weight loss, endurance building, or high-intensity intervals.
The innovative design doesn’t stop there. The bike’s telemetric console features a large, backlit LCD that’s readable in low light (unlike many competitors). Up to four unique user profiles can be created, perfect for households where multiple people want to track their progress. A recovery function even helps you monitor your fitness improvements over time.
3 Cardio built this bike like a tank, supporting riders up to 350 pounds—a testament to its commercial-grade construction. While the price tag might raise some eyebrows, the 3G Cardio Elite UB X delivers professional-grade quality that justifies the investment. If you’re serious about cardio training and want equipment that will last for years, this bike deserves a spot on your shortlist.
Important Safety Note:
As with any new exercise program or equipment, it’s essential to consult your physician to ensure the equipment is safe for you to use. It is especially crucial if you have any medical or physical conditions impacting your ability to exercise properly or putting your health at risk. Additionally, if you’re taking medication that affects your heart rate, blood pressure, or cholesterol level, your doctor’s advice is vital to create a workout plan that suits your needs.
Share Your Thoughts and Questions
I hope this in-depth review of the 3G Cardio Elite UB X upright bike was helpful and informative. I encourage you to share your thoughts and questions on the topic. Have you used the Elite UB X before, or have experience with similar rowing machines? Your insights can help others make an informed decision. Additionally, I welcome any feedback about my website and suggestions for future content. Your input is invaluable in creating a supportive and informative community.
I look forward to hearing from you and continuing the conversation!
Hey, I enjoyed reading your review a whole lot and found it very helpful for fitness lovers like me. The 3G Cardio Elite UB bike features both pulse grip sensors in the handlebars and is telemetry enabled with a wireless heart-rate strap included to help us stay within our target heart-rate zone as we cycle. An advantageous product for fitness lovers.
I like the compact step-through frame on this bike. Notably, I like the fact that it has wheels on the front so that you can put it away when you’re not using it, and it’s not so heavy that an average user couldn’t do this. It seems to have all of the functionality and ergonomics of many other bikes, as well as a proper stance so that it won’t fall over easily. This looks like the bike for me, as I don’t think I need a more massive model.
Great choice! After you’ve had the bike for a while please come back and give us an update.
All the best!
The only downside that I see to the 3g cardio elite UB bike is that there is no internet connectivity and no cooling fan. Every other feature is incredible. This bike will keep the user challenged and help them to achieve higher goals. Thank you for this thorough review. I will share it with my friends.
You’re welcome, Benny.
All the best!
Just got and assembled my bike. Cannot seem to get the resistance level to change. It changes on the console but the pedal resistance remains at the difficult level no matter what I try. Quite possibly I am doing something wrong. Any ideas?
Hello Otto
I’m sorry to hear that you are having a problem adjusting the resistance. Have you tried powering off the console and turning it on again? Is the problem with the manual adjustment? Are any of the preset programs that automatically adjust the resistance working for you? In any case, I would contact 3G Cardio directly by calling 1-888-888-7985. They are the experts and will help you troubleshoot the problem you are experiencing.
Fantastic review. We have a 20 year old Life Fitness C7i that my wife, two boys (elite runners) and I have put MANY miles on. It was a good bike, but it finally conked out. Based on reviews, I have been looking hard at this 3G Cardio as the replacement. My wife is 5′ 3″, 105 lbs and I’m 6’2″, 270 lbs – any reason this bike would not do the trick? I’d appreciate your thoughts Robert. Many thanks.
Hello Ted,
The 3G Cardio UB Upright Bike would be a perfect choice. This bike comfortably accommodates users between 5’0″ and 6’5″ and has a 350 lb maximum user weight capacity. I also like that it comes with an HR chest strap included. However, the one thing that I don’t like is the bike’s handlebars. They are non-adjustable, but they do offer a multi-grip design, with the possibility of a parallel, horizontal, or upright grip. I don’t believe the non-adjustable handlebars would be a reason for not choosing this bike, but I did want to point it out to you. The 3G Cardio UB matches up well to the Life Fitness C7i in terms of quality, and it would be an excellent choice.
Robert