Octane XR4 Recumbent Elliptical

Overview: The Octane XR4 is the base model in the company’s recumbent elliptical lineup, combining the benefits of a traditional machine with the comfort of a seated bike. It’s the best of both worlds, with more muscle activation and ideal motion technology.

Here are some of the best features…

PowerStroke Technology

The Octane recumbent ellipticals all have 16″ PowerStroke technology which gives you maximum extension in the legs and puts more emphasis on your leg muscles than a recumbent bike, making it a much more effective workout.

Multiple Seat Positions

Unlike on recumbent bikes and other seated elliptical trainers, the Octane XR4 gives you 15 different seat heights to choose from, as well as 5 different seat tilts, so you can find the ideal position to ensure a great workout. The 45 degree angle of the seat eliminates much of the lower back stress that you experience when the seat is positioned perpendicular to the ground.

Space Friendly

The XR4 is more compact than similar cardio machines, at only 53″ long and 35″ wide. It is the shortest in the recumbent elliptical series, and as such a great choice for those with space constraints.

Workout Boosters

A hallmark of Octane Fitness, in addition to the 6 built in workout programs that you can choose from, you have three workout boosters. These are like hitting the turbo button and adding an additional element to your workout to make it even more challenging. You have X-Mode, Leg Press and Chest Press, which you can engage at any time to take your workout to the next level and target specific muscles.

Other Great Features

The XR4 also includes MOM safety mode, digital heart rate sensors, 20 resistance levels, 300 lb. max user weight and a solid warranty.

Octane Fitness XR4 Elliptical Test Drive

The recumbent ellipticals from Octane are ideal for those who prefer to sit while working out and take a little pressure off the back, but anyone can use it and get a great workout. It is definitely a lot more engaging than a recumbent bike, that’s for sure.

What you’ll notice right away with the XR4 is its compact size. It is 18″ shorter than the other models in the series: XR6, XR650 and XR6000. So for those of you that have a small gym at home, this one is the best option.

Getting on the machine is very easy with the step through design, and the fact that you can adjust the seat so many different ways is great. The tilt angle really does take some of the pressure off the lower back, which helps you stay on longer and work out harder.

You have a nice variety of programs to choose from, and the workout boosters, something you find on all Octane ellipticals, really ramp up the muscle targeting. We particularly like X Mode, which is a series of random intervals that you can follow along with the machine’s personal trainer. If you just want to work on the upper body you can choose Chest Press mode, and if you want to hit the legs even more, choose the Leg Press option.

The motion is very smooth and natural, as it is on all of Octane’s machines. You can choose from 20 different resistance levels and monitor your heart rate on the lower stationary arms. All in all it is a fantastic workout, and much more effective than we thought a recumbent elliptical could offer.

Any negatives? Sure. it is definitely on the pricey side at around $2899, but they do have sales from time to time. Also, it doesn’t have a touch screen or workout tracking. Still, for Octane it is all about the workout, and on that account it delivers in spades.

Final Thoughts

The Octane XR4 is a great recumbent elliptical trainer offering everything you need for a great workout. There’s a nice variety of built in programs, workout boosters, 20 resistance levels, enhanced muscle targeting and a comfortable, impact free motion.

If you can afford it, it’s a great addition to any home gym, and will provide years of maintenance free workouts for you and your family.

Get more info, specs and the best price on this recumbent elliptical here