Comparison

SOLE vs Matrix Bike Comparison | Features, Pros & Cons

Woman in workout clothes stands next to a SOLE exercise bike in living room

Key Takeaways

  • SOLE bikes offer higher resistance levels, providing more workout intensity.
  • SOLE’s ergonomic designs and adjustable features ensure comfort across all bike types.
  • Matrix bikes come with larger screens and longer warranties but at a higher price.
  • SOLE bikes are more affordable while offering comparable or better features.
  • Matrix bikes are bulkier, making them less portable.

SOLE vs Matrix Bike Comparison | Features, Pros & Cons

Choosing the best exercise bike can be tricky, especially when you’re deciding between top brands like SOLE and Matrix. Both offer high-quality bikes, but they have been developed to address different needs and preferences. Let’s see which is right for your home gym.


At SOLE Fitness, we're proud to offer the best treadmills for your home or gym. These machines are crafted to meet the highest standards of quality and performance, ensuring they are ideal for anyone - from fitness novices to seasoned athletes.

Featured Product

SOLE Bikes: Starting at $1,099.99, SOLE bikes are the top choice for durability, ergonomic design, and competitive pricing. Ideal for both fitness enthusiasts and beginners, they offer a superior cycling experience with smooth, quiet operation and user-friendly consoles for easy progress tracking. Adjustable seating and handlebars ensure ultimate comfort, while compatibility with heart rate monitors optimizes workouts. Known for their build quality, reliability, and customer satisfaction, SOLE bikes also boast exceptional warranties and customer service, making them the best choice for a gym-quality workout at home. For unmatched quality and performance, choose SOLE bikes.
    Man in athletic gear riding SOLE exercise bike in living room, focused on workout.Indoor cycling bikes with more resistance levels can offer a more customizable and intense workout.
    Bike Type & Resistance Levels

    The type of bike and its resistance levels play an important role in shaping your workout experience. Here’s a look at SOLE and Matrix models across 3 categories: recumbent, upright, and indoor cycling bikes.

    Model

    Type

    Resistance Level

    SOLE LCR

    Recumbent

    40 levels/Magnetic

    Matrix Cycle R30

    Recumbent

    20 levels/Electronic

    SOLE LCB

    Upright

    40 levels/Magnetic

    Matrix Cycle U30

    Upright

    20 levels/Electronic

    SOLE SB1200

    Indoor Cycling

    100 levels/Magnetic

    Matrix Cycle ICR50

    Indoor Cycling

    11 levels/Magnetic, quick-adjust lever

    Why It Matters:
    Recumbent Bikes: These bikes have a reclining seat that supports your back and renders a low-impact workout, which is great for joint issues. The has 40 resistance levels for more precise intensity control, while the Cycle R30 has 20 levels.

    Upright Bikes: These bikes mimic a regular bicycle, working your core and upper body. The SOLE LCB, with 40 resistance levels, gives you more control over your workout compared to the Cycle U30’s 20 levels.

    Indoor Cycling Bikes: These bikes are built for intense workouts and simulate road cycling. The SOLE SB1200 comes with an impressive 100 resistance levels for fine-tuning your workout, while the Cycle ICR50 has 11 levels with a quick-adjust lever, which is good for interval training but less customizable overall.

    Comfort

    Model

    Seat Comfort

    Ergonomics

    SOLE LCR

    Large and plush seat, supportive back

    Adjustable

    SOLE LCB

    Cushioned gel seat designed to reduce pain

    Vertical/horizontal adjustment

    SOLE SB1200

    Racing-style seat

    Up/down, fore/aft adjustment

    Matrix Cycle R30

    Comfort Arc™ seat with mesh seat back

    Fore/aft adjustment via easy-adjust lever

    Matrix Cycle U30

    Comfort Arc™ upright seat, interchangeable

    Up/down adjustment via turn and pull knob

    Matrix Cycle ICR50

    Padded sport saddle

    Vertical/horizontal adjustment

    Why It Matters:
    Recumbent Bikes: The SOLE LCR has a large, plush seat that helps with tailbone pain and is easy to adjust for long rides. The Cycle R30 has a mesh seat back for breathability and easy adjustments.

    Upright Bikes: The SOLE LCB has a gel seat that reduces pain and can be adjusted both up/down and forward/back for a better fit. The Cycle U30 has a Comfort Arc™ seat with simple up/down adjustments.

    Indoor Cycling Bikes: The SOLE SB1200 lets you adjust the seat both up/down and forward/back for optimum riding position. The Cycle ICR50 has a padded saddle with similar adjustments.

    Choose a recumbent bike with a comfy, adjustable seat to ease joint pain.

    Display, Metrics, & Features

    The display and additional features of a bike can greatly enhance your workout experience. Here’s a look at what each model offers:

    Model

    Display

    Metrics

    Features

    SOLE LCR

    10.1” Touchscreen

    Time, speed, distance, calories, pulse, RPM, level, laps, heart rate

    Bluetooth, WiFi, SOLE+ App, preloaded apps, phone/tablet holder,

    reading rack

    SOLE LCB

    10.1” Touchscreen

    Time, speed, distance, calories, pulse, RPM, watts, MET

    Bluetooth, WiFi, SOLE+ App, preloaded apps, phone/tablet holder,

    reading rack

    SOLE SB1200

    10.1” Touchscreen

    Wireless LCD readout for watts, speed, time, RPM, calories, BPM, distance

    Bluetooth, WiFi, SOLE+ App, preloaded apps, phone/tablet holder

    Matrix Cycle R30

    16” touchscreen

    Time, speed, distance, calories, pulse, RPM, pace, heart rate

    WiFi, bluetooth, iFIT® (30-day membership), water bottle holder

    Matrix Cycle U30

    16” touchscreen

    Time, speed, distance, calories, pulse, RPM, level, pace, heart rate, MET

    WiFi, bluetooth, iFIT® (30-day membership), water bottle holder

    Matrix Cycle ICR50

    22” non-touch display

    Time, speed, distance, calories, pulse, RPM, heart rate

    Bluetooth connects with training apps, water bottle holder

    Size & Portability

    Size and portability are important factors, particularly if you have limited space in your home.

     

    Model

    Dimensions

    Weight

    Portability

    SOLE LCR

    57” L x 29” W x 50” H

    152 lbs

    Moderate

    SOLE LCB

    48.5” L x 23” W x 60” H

    112 lbs

    Easy

    SOLE SB1200

    57” L x 21” W x 63” H

    127 lbs

    Moderate

    Matrix Cycle R30

    62.2” L x 25.2” W x 47.6” H

    192 lbs

    Limited; heavier and bulkier.

    Matrix Cycle U30

    48” L x 24.6” W x 56.3” H

    146 lbs

    Moderate

    Matrix Cycle ICR50

    55.7” L x 22.2” W x 49” H

    131 lbs

    Moderate

    Why It Matters:
    Recumbent Bikes: The is moderately portable given its size and weight, suitable if you need to reposition it occasionally. The Matrix Cycle R30, being bulkier and heavier, offers limited portability.

    Upright Bikes: The SOLE LCB, being lighter, is easier to move and a good option if you need to shift it around your home. On the other hand, the heavier Matrix Cycle U30 may require more effort to reposition.

    Indoor Cycling Bikes: The SOLE SB1200 is compact and offers moderate portability. The Matrix Cycle ICR50 also has a similar portability level.

    Price & Warranty

    Price and warranty are crucial considerations when choosing an exercise bike. Here’s how SOLE and Matrix bikes stack up:

    Model

    Price

    Warranty

    SOLE LCR

    $1,799.99

    Lifetime frame, 3 years parts

    SOLE LCB

    $1,599.99

    Lifetime frame, 3 years parts

    SOLE SB1200

    $1,599.99

    Lifetime frame, 2 years parts

    Matrix Cycle R30

    From $2,299.00

    Lifetime frame, 5 years parts

    Matrix Cycle U30

    From $1,699.00

    Lifetime frame, 5 years parts

    Matrix Cycle ICR50

    From $1,199.00 (No console option)

    5 years frame, 3 years parts

    Why It Matters:
    Price and warranty are important for getting good value from your bike. SOLE offers strong warranties and great pricing, making their bikes a smart choice for quality and durability. While Matrix bikes have longer warranties, SOLE gives you a reliable product at a better price.

    Make the Right Choice for Your Home Gym

    As far as quality, affordability, and strong warranties are concerned, SOLE bikes offer the best value for your money. Whether you’re after comfort, durability, or advanced features, SOLE has a bike that fits your needs without breaking the bank. Matrix bikes have their strengths, but SOLE provides the perfect balance of performance and price.

    SOLE Has the Perfect Bike for You

    When choosing a bike, think about your fitness goals, budget, and space.

    For Beginners: The SOLE LCB combines comfort, performance, and value - perfect for starting out.

    For Cycling Enthusiasts: The SOLE SB1200 delivers a smooth ride with customizable comfort, ideal for dedicated cyclists.

    For Seniors: The SOLE LCR delivers a heart-healthy, low-impact workout with top-tier comfort and app connectivity.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

    Which SOLE Bike Is Best for Beginners?
    The SOLE LCB is perfect for beginners, as it provides a great mix of comfort, performance, and value, making it easy to start and stick with your fitness routine.

    How Does the SOLE SB1200 Compare to the Matrix ICR50 for Indoor Cycling?
    The SOLE SB1200 comes with 100 levels of magnetic resistance, providing a more customizable ride. The Matrix ICR50, while a decent choice, has fewer resistance levels.

    What Makes the SOLE LCR a Good Option for Seniors?
    The SOLE LCR is designed with a large, plush seat and a low-impact, heart-healthy workout in mind. Its adjustable seat and app connectivity make it perfect for seniors seeking comfort and ease of use.

    Is the Warranty Offered by SOLE Better?
    SOLE bikes come with a lifetime warranty on the frame and up to 3 years on parts, making them a cost-effective and reliable choice for long-term use.

    How Do SOLE and Matrix Bikes Compare in Terms of Value?
    Both SOLE and Matrix bikes offer strong features and durability. SOLE bikes are known for their competitive pricing and solid warranties.

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