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DeskCycle versus the MagneTrainer

How the DeskCycle is like the MagneTrainer

MagneTrainer DeskCycle
Exercise Legs Yes Yes
Physical Therapy Yes. The MagneTrainer is used for upper and lower body physical therapy. Consult your physical therapist to help you choose the right bike.

For most people the MagneTrainer is a better choice because the pedal stroke is 10 inches. However in some cases a therapist will recommend the shorter 7 inch stroke that the DeskCycle has. Consult your physical therapist to help you choose the right bike.

Exercise At Work Yes, only if your desk is at least 33 inches tall from the ground to the underneath side of the desk. At least 36 inches is preferred. The DeskCycle is a better bike for exercising at the average desk because of it's low profile. The maximum pedal height is 5 inches lower than the MagneTrainer.
Magnetic Resistance Yes Yes
Smooth Pedal Motion Yes Yes
Quiet Operation Yes Yes
Bidirectional Yes. You can pedal forwards and backwards. Yes. You can pedal forwards and backwards.
Display 5 Function: Speed Time Distance, Calories, Scan Same display as the MagneTrainer
Velcro Tether Yes Yes
Velcro Foot Straps Yes Yes
Warranty 1 Year on All Parts and Labor 1 Year on All Parts and Labor

How the DeskCycle is different from the MagneTrainer

MagneTrainer DeskCycle
Exercise Arms Yes. The pedals that come with the MagneTrainer work with your hands and feet. You can also use the ergo handles with the MagneTrainer. The ergo handles are sold separately.

Not recommended. The DeskCycle comes with pedals that are designed for feet use only. You cannot use the ergo handles with the DeskCycle. They would hit the ground when you pedal. Having said that, some people do use the DeskCycle with their hands and feet.

Exercise At Work Yes, only if your desk is at least 33 inches tall from the ground to the underneath side of the desk. At least 36 inches is preferred. The DeskCycle is a better bike for exercising at the average desk because of it's low profile. The maximum pedal height is 5 inches lower than the MagneTrainer.
Maximum Resistance
  • 170 Watts @ 60 RPM
  • 480 Watts @ 120 RPM
  • 130 Watts @ 60 RPM
  • 390 Watts @ 120 RPM

The MagneTrainer has 30% more resistance at the maximum setting (at 60 RPM). However they feel about the same at the maximum setting because the pedal arms on the DeskCycle are 1.5 inches shorter than those of the MagneTrainer.

Maximum Pedal Height 15 inches 10 inches
Pedals Standard Pedals work with hands and feet. Comes with Large Pedals, which are a $20 optional Accessory for the MagneTrainer. Large pedals are for use with feet only.
Number of Resistance Steps

Infinite - 5 Rotation Dial

You rotate the adjustment dial over 5 complete revolutions to go from the minimum to the maximum resistance.

8 steps
Pedal Stroke Circumference 10 inches 7 inches
Length of pedal arms 5 inches 3.5 inches
Width of Legs Front and rear legs are both 15 inches wide. Front leg is 20 inches wide, rear leg is 15 inches wide.
Optional Accessories sold separately
  • Large Pedals,
  • Ergo Handles,
  • Quick-Connects,
  • 22-inch Leg,
  • Medical Level Foot Pedals,
  • Large Display,
  • Hospital Chair Kit,
  • Adjustable Height Stand.
  • Leg that Lowers the DeskCycle by another inch