I bought this thing because I wanted something easy to put together, cheap, and where I can use it while watching TV. This has been perfect for that! It's been 2 months, and I've had many days where I'll take this little thing out, turn on the TV, and just go. When I'm done 30 minutes later, I'll put it away in my closet easily. I've even added some 5 lbs. dumbbells for assistance.

I will totally acknowledge that...
...if you're looking for a vigorous workout, this won't do it.
...if you're looking for all-inclusive sports equipment, this isn't it.
...if you're looking for something that'll count your calories or time for you, this won't do it. (It comes with a timer, but it's nothing special.)
...if you're looking for something to replace your daily workout, this isn't it.

However, if you're looking for a cheap option that will complement your regular exercise routine while sitting, this is a great option. 4 stars

You can use this thing for about 30 minutes before it gets too hot and starts to squeak horribly. You can tell it's from overheating because the pedal arms get too hot to touch! We have two of them bought from amazon and we took them apart to see if we could lubricate the mechanism (not easy to do) but with wd40 and lithium grease it still squeaks like you're strangling a goose. The manufacturer has a laughable return policy requiring original packaging, packing slips, paid shipping and mandatory insurance which makes it not worth it to try to return and therefore not worth buying if you are worried about the noise. OTHER than all that, it works fine. 2 stars

Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R20C7O9MGQ84TV Video review of the Instride exercycle. 4 stars

I have had several of these floor-type cycles and this one is the most sturdy of the bunch. My only quibble is that the digital timer/odometer does not work. 4 stars

I bought this product for my 90 yr old mom who enjoys walking, but often is unable to due to the weather or tiredness. Looking at the product online, I really was not expecting much - just a simple machine for my mom to use occasionally when she is watching TV or otherwise unable to walk.
That is exactly what I got. Simple to assemble, simple to use. Anyone would really be hard-pressed to get fit and buff from this machine. Basically it just keeps my mom a little limber in arms and legs and occupy her interest for a few minutes each day.
I can see a usefulness in the middle of an office day where you can keep one under your desk and do a modicum of leg exercises to mildly keep your legs toned. That's it.
You don't get much and do not expect much. But for what it can do, it's not bad. 3 stars