BODi Bike Review (hands-on)

My Short Review after 6 Months of Hands-on Testing

I do think the Beachbody MYX II is worth it. Although, I have always been a sucker for a friction resistance style bike as they are what I have ridden the most in my past twenty years of teaching, and I like how adding or decreasing resistance feels more natural. However, my opinion of why the BODi is such a great bike includes so much more than that. I love how Beachbody has intertwined newer technological capabilities with a fantastic design, and I can’t wait to share all that I have experienced.

My Video Review on Youtube

Check out my Beachbody bike video review on YouTube, where I share many details about my experience with the BODi (MYX II).

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How was the order & delivery process

The ordering process was straightforward. Within only a few clicks, I purchased the BODi bike for just under $1,400. This price included a discount and also free shipping and assembly. From the time I clicked submit on my order to when the bike actually arrived was 23 days. I wasn’t surprised by the longer delivery window as the confirmation email was clear that most orders came within two weeks unless impacted by weather.

Since I ordered during the winter in Colorado, I expected a longer delivery window. I liked how I was informed every step of the way during the delivery process, so I knew exactly what to expect. While I waited for my bike, I also received an email with the directions to set up my OpenFit account and begin my free trial of various class formats. The same day I received notice my bike would be delivered the following day, the assembly team also contacted me to schedule a time to arrive at my house. The whole experience from order to delivery was very seamless.

BODi Bike Assembly

When the delivery team arrived, I was surprised that the bike was assembled entirely except for the pedals and the monitor. Since the bike arrived almost fully assembled, the delivery team was at my house for about twenty minutes. The delivery team checked every bike component before leaving and made sure I knew the next step to get started.

What factors did we include to rate the bike?

In order to accurately rate the MYX II, we selected five key factors to evaluate. We paid extra attention to these categories during our testing process. These factors included:

• quality of construction,
• apps & connectivity,
• smoothness of the ride,
• adjustability, and
• integrated platforms.

All of which will be discussed in greater detail later in this article.

The MYX vs. MYX II: Does The Upgrade Worth It?

Some time ago, MYXfitness announced they would discontinue their original MYX model and focus on the brand new MYX II, which is actually the BODi bike. Why would MYXfitness decide to retire the original MYX that has been widely successful? They retired the older model because they are clearing the way for their latest creation and platform, ready to take the fitness industry by storm. The unique pairing of two excellent Beachbody platforms and this new model will be discussed in greater detail later in this article, but below check out our comparison of how these two models stack up against each other.

Detailed Beachbody Bike Review Based on Hands-on Testing

Specifications

Note: Although the compact dimension includes 54 L x 21 W X 47 H (Inches), it is essential to note that a 4’ x 6’ space is ideal for accommodating the 21.5” touchscreen that swivels 360 degrees.

Main Features 

Customized Heart Rate Training

The Polar OH1 Heart Rate Monitor that arrives with the MYX 2 is more than an additional accessory that purchasers receive. Before taking any classes, riders are prompted to take a particular heart rate class that identifies their various heart rates. Then, MYXfitness uses the metrics obtained from the heart rate monitor to customize three different zone intensities based on each rider’s heart rate. These metrics are displayed on your screen during every ride to tell in which zone you are training.

How does knowing these three different heart rate zones affect your workout? First, it allows greater customization for workouts and will enable participants to reach their goals faster. Second, trainer-led classes guide users through the various stages to get the most out of their training no matter how much time participants can spend, whether it is only ten minutes or an hour long. Finally, it is also important to note that the MYX tech also assesses the rate at which users will fatigue and customizes the workouts to avoid injury. 

Live and On-Demand Capability

Beachbody is now combining its MYX 2 bike and its extensive on-demand library through BODi. The digital library contains cycling classes, and various other formats, including strength, kickboxing, Barre, HIIT, yoga, meditation, etc. Very few digital platforms offer live classes, but MYXfitness is now one of them. We will discuss Openfit and BODi that make all this possible later in this article.

BODcast

One of the most intriguing features of this bike is the camera included in the monitor. It is the first on the market to offer users the ability to see themselves and their classmates participating. This feature allows for instructor shoutouts to increase participant motivation and provide real-time feedback to maximize training sessions and help decrease the chance of injury.

Advanced Sensor

Even the original MYX bike was known for tracking heart rate and utilizing the metrics for advanced program customization. With this new model, an advanced tracker that is 10% more accurate than other sensors on the market is included and records speed, distance, and cadence with greater accuracy. This new sensor helps riders gain advanced insights into their progress. 

Note: If the sensor stops displaying the metrics to the monitor, simply restart the monitor, and the metrics will begin to show again.

Warranty & Refund Policy

MYXfitness offers a 12-month warranty for everything included in the purchase. This consists of the bike, touchscreens, firmware, accessories, and labor. In addition, the frame includes a 5-year warranty.

Currently, they are also offering a free 30-day trial. However, refund requests must be completed within 30 days of receiving the equipment to receive a full refund.

BODi (MYX II) Performance

Quality of Construction: 9/10

This MYX bike includes exceptional quality in its construction. Not only is it commercial-grade, but additional consideration has been taken to make it such a fantastic model, including an optimized Q-factor at 165mm. The Q factor is the distance between pedals to decrease knee stress. 

Apps & Connectivity: 5/10

Applications such as Strava, Sufferfest, and Zwift are not available for this model as the touchscreen-only supports MYXfitness content. However, it does include Bluetooth connectivity and pairs nicely with the Apple watch.

Smoothness of Ride: 9/10

This model provides an incredibly smooth ride. The smoothness is in part to the weighted flywheel located at the front of the bike. In addition, the inertia generated from the 41-pound flywheel helps to create a great riding experience.

Adjustability: 9/10

The three-way adjustability of the seat and handlebars is ideal for riders close to 5’ and over 6’. It allows riders to find the correct riding position for maximum comfort and safety.

Integrated Platforms: 9/10

The bike works with BODi, a popular platform with many workout options.

Mechanics & Parts of the Bike

BODi (MYXII) Pros and Cons

BODi Bike vs BODi Bike+ Main Differences

Besides price, the only difference between the BODi Bike & BODi Bike+ ( Formerly MYX II & MYX II Plus) is the additional equipment accompanying the purchase. BODi Bike+ buyers receive the following extra equipment:

For a complete comparison of what these two purchasing options include, please look below.

How To Set Up The BODi (MYX II) Bike

The monitor included great prompts and videos on how to complete the set-up. For example, after I logged into my OpenFit account (we highly recommend you set this up before your bike arrives), I was prompted to activate my cadence sensor and pair my heart rate monitor. 

The cadence sensor was one of the most important bike components that needed to be set up before riding. It took a second to find where the sensor was located in order to pair it with the monitor. I knew it had to be located on one of the crankarms, and I found it on the left. The most challenging part of the whole bike setup was trying to get the battery out of the sensor to remove the tab.

The first video helped explain the heart rate monitor and how to wear it. Then, an additional video described setting up your bike’s handlebars and saddle correctly. They were both very easy to follow. 

Within about twenty minutes, I was already taking the heart rate test to set my target heart rate zones.

Beachbody On Demand Interactive (BODi)

Important Note: Openfit and MYXfitness on-demand libraries have been merged into BODi app. So, you can have access to all the 3 platforms with a subscription to the BODi app.

BODi, also known as Beachbody On Demand Interactive, now offers 1,500 pre-recorded classes and daily live classes. These classes are currently available on the web and mobile app. In addition, you can enjoy a wide range of classes taught by Beachbody’s renowned trainers, including Shaun T (P90 X), Jennifer Jacobs (former Peloton instructor), Amoila Cesar (645), Elize Joan (3 Week Yoga Retreat), Idalis Velazquez (Total Body Pregnancy), and many more. In addition, these fantastic instructors are now creating new workout programs to share with the Beachbody community. Class formats include Bootcamp, yoga, Pilates, meditation, strength, cycling, cardio, Barre, and core and the new programs currently being created.

The live and on-demand classes are not only fitness-based, but users can also learn how to prepare nutritious meals in the comfort of their own homes. In addition, you can select from different nutrition support programs, including 2B Mindset and Portion Fit. I tried both and found them to provide great information.

BODi also allows users to utilize the exciting BODcast feature of the MYX II. You can now receive real-time personalized instruction and shoutouts from the expert trainers since the trainers can view your video while taking their class. Not only can the trainers see you, but your video is displayed on a large backdrop behind the instructor. This feature is not currently offered with any other at-home cycling experience. We enjoyed seeing the shoutouts and form corrections from most of the instructors. However, in particular, one instructor used this feature to ridicule a rider who picked up their phone during the class, which we felt went against the welcoming community that the rest of the BODI instructors have worked hard to create. Like any platform, you will need to find the instructor style and vibe you most enjoy.

You can buy (separately) a BODi subscription with the price ranging from $10 – $30 per month, depending on how many months you pre-pay.

Beachbody Bike Cost & Where to Buy

The MYX II is currently sold only on the Official MYX Fitness Website. The price is ranging from $1399 for the MYX II & $1599 for the MYX II Plus. You can always check the MYX site for a special discount or coupon code.

Alternatives

Below, we will explore some of the most popular competitors of the MYX bike. Although these models have many similarities, they have notable differences that will influence buying decisions. 

Peloton

The Peloton experience of their platform is what makes this bike so enticing to customers. The most affordable Peloton model is $1,895 and requires a $39/month membership fee. Peloton bikes include a touchscreen and provide 100 levels of magnetic resistance. In addition, the inspiring instructors, cycling experience, and plethora of different class formats offered are what make this bike unique.

Related: You can also read our comparison with the Peloton.

Schwinn IC4 / Bowflex C6

The Nautilus models, Bowflex C6 & Schwinn IC4, offer a great product at an affordable price. Priced at less than $1,000, riders can enjoy 100 levels of magnetic resistance and a quiet and comfortable ride. Unfortunately, live classes are not available with these models, and nor is a touch screen. Instead, the console integrates with various riding applications such as Peloton and Zwift via your tablet or phone.

Check also our C6 vs BODi bike comparison!

Bottomline

The BODi (MYX II) bike is a fantastic model, and now with the added content from Beachbody and the lower price point than similar bikes, this is an awesome option. However, it is essential to note that purchasing the membership is vital to enjoying this model’s maximum potential.