SOLE vs Matrix Bike Comparison | Features, Pros & Cons

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.

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.