LifeCore LC985VG Elliptical Trainer Review

The LifeCore LC985VG elliptical trainer has been getting a lot of hype because of the "Best Buy" rating it got from a prestigious consumer magazine, whose name cannot be spoken. However, if you want to get the real scoop go and talk to the people who sell and service these machines. Which is what I did. I went to U.S. Fitness in Raleigh and talked to the general manager, Clint Arm.

The LifeCore LC985VG is deceptive, because it is a compact elliptical trainer. And when people think of compact ellipticals, they correlate them to the cheap compact models like Weslo and Image. However, there are several elliptical trainer manufacturers that make rock solid compact cross trainers, LifeCore happens to be one of them.

Note: As of 3/11/10 the LifeCore LC985VG was selling for $999 with shipping. Go to the LifeCore Store for the latest deal.*

There is a demand for compact ellipticals for two reasons. First, they have smaller strides that accommodate smaller users. Second, they have a small footprint, which makes them ideal for people who has limited space. For example, apartment dwellers.

Features on the LifeCore LC985VG Elliptical Trainer

Compact Design - As mentioned the LC985VG is very compact. When assembled it has a 52" x 30" footprint. It's not unusual for an elliptical trainer to have a footprint length in excess of 80". For those with a limited space, this is an ideal option. However, with any compact elliptical trainer there are two limitations. First, they usually do not weigh much. In the case of the LC985SV the unit weight is 125 lbs. So a heavy individuals who work out strenuously may find that this elliptical is not as stable as larger and heavier machines. Second, the stride is short, which makes this elliptical best suited for small to average height people.

Adjustable Foot Pedals - You can adjust the pedals to the position that is ideal for your stride. You can also change up the positioning and concentrate your workout on different muscles.

Enclosed Bearings in Pivotal Parts - Many elliptical manufacturers use bushings in some of their pivotal parts. The problem is they wear and give after awhile. The LifeCore LC985VG uses enclosed bearings on all their pivotal parts, consequently reducing wear and service issues.

Console - You get a LED display, making it easy to read. This is a vast improvement over the non-backlit LCD displays you find on cheaper models. It gives simultaneous readouts on time, speed, distance, calories, watts and pulse. I particularly like the dial gauge like you find on an MP3 player to adjust the resistance, and I like the simplicity of the layout.

Warranty - The LC985VG has one of the more generous parts warranty for the price - 5 years. This says something about the quality of the components. You also get 1-year labor coverage.

Our Review - LifeCore LC985VG Elliptical Trainer

At around $1,000 the LifeCore LC985VG is probably one of the best compact ellipticals at this price. It was best described as a "Small machine with a big machine feel." I keep getting testimonials from people who bought a cheap compact elliptical and it was either broken out of the box or soon after. This is not one of those throw-away cross trainers.

The LC985VG is built for durability, and due to the design and engineering, is extremely quiet. And the feeback I get from U.S. Fitness is that LifeCore ellipticals are low maintenance machines.

If you are in need of a compact elliptical and want one that will last - this is the model for you.