Keiser is a very established fitness equipment manufacturer. Their spinning bikes are especially sought after and are used in gyms and spinning studios all around the world. This is because Keiser bikes have a reputation for being rugged, hardwearing, and easy to use. Requiring minimal maintenance, Keiser bikes are ultra-reliable and can stand up to a lot of heavy use.
The Keiser M3 Plus is a commercial spinning bike that is also suitable for home use. This popular bike is an update of the original M3 spinning bike. The main difference between the M3 and the M3 Plus is adjustability – the Keiser M3 Plus reviewed below has more adjustments for a more comfortable, customizable setup.
The Keiser M3 Plus is not cheap, but you really do get what you pay for. If you are a serious cyclist or simply want to buy a spinning bike that will still work many years from now, the Keiser M3 Plus is worthy of your consideration.
Keiser M3 Plus Review
Features
| Part Number | 5501BBC |
| Color | Raven Black |
When it comes to features, as you’d expect from a commercial-grade spin bike, the Keiser M3 Plus is not lacking. It has almost everything you need for enjoyable, effective, and comfortable workouts. The main features are:
Key Features
- V-shaped frame for stability and lightness
- Rear-mounted flywheel for smooth, realistic pedaling action and minimal maintenance
- Electromagnetic braking for precise control of resistance
- Belt drive for silent, maintenance-free operation
- 24 levels of resistance/gears
- 4-way adjustable ergonomic seat
- 4-way adjustable handlebars with multiple hand position options
- Multi-function performance monitor with Bluetooth telemetry
- Shimano 2-way pedals with toe clips and straps and SPD clipless pedal fittings
- Water bottle holder
- 4-point leveling adjusters
- Built-in transport wheels for easy moving
Dimensions and Specifications
Despite being a commercial quality spin bike, the Keiser M3 Plus is compact and light, and won’t take up much space in your home. The built-in transport wheels mean that it’s also easy to roll out of the way if you want to store it between workouts. The dimensions of the Keiser M3 Plus are:
- Size: 44.5” x 25.75” x 48.25”
- Weight: 125 pounds
- Maximum capacity: 300 pounds
- User height: 4’10” to 6’7”
- Power source: 2 AA batteries (supplied)
Spin bike design
Keiser spinning bikes feature a unique V-shaped frame and rear-mounted flywheel. This not only gives Keiser bikes a distinctive appearance, but it is also a very functional design.
The V-shaped frame has a single attachment point to the base, which means the Keiser M3 Plus is both light and stable – a hard combination to pull off.
The rear-mounted flywheel means that most of the working parts are behind the user and won’t be exposed to dripping sweat. This cuts down wear and tear, so the bike will require very little maintenance.
Where a lot of cheaper spinning bikes use felt pad friction brakes, the Keiser M3 Plus features an electromagnetic braking and resistance system. This means you can change gear/resistance at the flick of a lever instead of twisting an adjuster. In addition, your gear changes will always be smooth and precise. With 24 different levels of resistance to choose from, the Keiser M3 Plus will cater for absolute beginners and advanced riders alike.
The electromagnetic brake also means that the flywheel does not have to be as big as it would for a more traditional braking system. This means the Keiser M3 Plus is lighter than many of its competitors.
Combined with the electromagnetic braking system, the Keiser M3 Plus features a drive belt, which means this bike is all-but silent in use. The flywheel, braking system, drive belt, and crank are all sealed inside a plastic dust and sweat cover, which means it should be virtually maintenance-free.
The four-way adjustable seat and handlebars ensure that irrespective of your height or limb length, you should be able to set this bike up for optimal comfort and performance.
The Keiser M3 Plus features dual-sided Shimano pedals. On one side, you’ll find traditional toe clips and straps that are compatible with regular sneakers. On the other side, there are SPD fittings for use with clipless cycling pedals.
Computer Features
As any good spinning bike should, the Keiser M3 Plus has a built-in workout computer. Powered by two AA batteries (supplied), this backlit LCD screen displays useful information about your workout. The functions and features of the computer include:
- Revolutions per minute (RPM)
- Power – displayed in watts
- Heart rate*
- Elapsed time
- Gear/resistance level
- Current workout distance and odometer
- Average workout statistics
- Low battery indicator
- Automatic backlight – comes on when required
*The Keiser M3 Plus does not have built-in heart rate sensors but, because of its Bluetooth telemetry, it will display your heart rate if you wear a chest strap. However, you’ll need to purchase your own as no chest straps are supplied.
Ease of Use
The Keiser M3 Plus is very easy to use. Once you have adjusted the seat and handlebars, all you need to do is hop on your bike and start pedaling. Changing gears or resistance levels is as easy as shifting a lever.
The performance monitor will automatically turn on and start recording your workout when you begin your workout. The monitor turns off after 60 seconds of inactivity to save battery power.
While the general operation of the Keiser M3 Plus is straightforward, you will need to create your own workouts or follow an online workout or spinning DVD. There are no pre-programmed workouts available, and the computer will not link to any spinning or training apps. This may be a drawback for beginners and those who prefer to follow a pre-designed training session.
Assembly
The Keiser M3 Plus requires some assembly before use but much less than many other spinning bikes. The V-shaped frame and sealed drive system are already assembled, so it’s simply a matter of bolting the main components together. Most users report that this process takes no more than an hour. Assembly tools are not supplied, so you’ll need to provide these yourself.
Warranty
All Keiser spinning bikes are covered by comprehensive warranties, and the Keiser M3 Plus is no different. Because it’s such a high-quality machine, mechanical faults are rare. Still, it’s good to know that, in the unlikely event of a breakdown, you are covered. The terms of Keiser’s warranties are:
- 10 Years frame
- 3 Years cylinders, displays, processor boxes
- 2 Years compressor and dryer, cables, pulleys, and bearings
- 1 Year Chrome
- 90 Days paint, upholstery, seat belts, hand grips, and other rubber and plastic products.
Bottom Line
The Keiser M3 Plus is a commercial-quality spinning bike that is also suitable for home use. It’s built to last and will deliver many years of faithful use, even if you ride it daily. Fully adjustable, this bike is suitable for riders of all shapes and sizes, and the 24 resistance levels mean that beginner and advanced exercisers can use it. The Shimano dual-sided pedals are an especially nice feature, and the SPD clipless function will appeal to outdoor cyclists as well as serious spinners.
The electromagnetic braking system and belt drive mean that the Keiser M3 Plus is very quiet in use, which makes it ideal for shared households. The sealed-in drive system also means that this bike won’t require much maintenance.
If the Keiser M3 Plus is lacking anything, it is pre-programmed workouts to follow. Intermediate and advanced exercisers should have no problem designing their own training sessions, but beginners may need more guidance.
If you are looking for a spinning bike that is simple to use but will last a lifetime, the Keiser M3 Plus is an excellent option.
Patrick Dale is an ex-British Royal Marine and owner and lecturer for a fitness qualifications company. In addition to training prospective personal trainers, Patrick has also authored three fitness and exercise books, dozens of e-books, thousands of articles, and several fitness videos.
