What do you get when you cross a bicycle with a elliptical trainer? That would be the Randy Ross stepper, a vehicle that looks like a bike at first glance, but has some notable — and useful — differences. The first is there's no seat, meaning you're always standing and working out while you're on it. Then you notice the steps where the pedals should be. Those simulate the motion of an elliptical trainer, letting you select the intensity of your workout by moving your feet farther back. But it's got a big advantage over those ellipticals since, well, it actually takes you places.
But is really better than cycling? With a promise that she could master the Stepper in five minutes, Vanessa bravely took this strange vehicular hybrid for a spin in Central Park. The verdict: It really is easy to master, and the speed is decent, too. But you may have to endure a few funny looks from cyclists. Check out the fast-moving review in the video above.
editor@dvice.com
By murray at 4:07 PM ON 03/24/08
Please don't make me wait so long between Vanessa fixes again. I almost didn't make it.
By Stone at 5:19 PM ON 03/24/08
Likewise, Murray
By Bone at 8:37 AM ON 03/26/08
Likewise, Stone
By Tony C at 9:04 AM ON 03/26/08
LOL, I love the old guy that tried to pick up on her! :D
By zelduh at 3:31 PM ON 03/27/08
I bought a Trikke a few years ago (see one in action youtube.com/watch?v=LK4RuGb4q5c&NR=1 ). I like it, but I did not get enough of a workout when on level ground - and I found it a bit too difficult at uphill grades steeper than 10%.
I am a sucker for this kinda stuff - and I already like elliptical trainers. I think I'll have to get me one of these elliptical bikes.
By Korpsaw at 9:10 PM ON 03/27/08
Likewise, All.
By Uilleam at 7:24 PM ON 03/29/08
Likewise, here too. Need more Vanessa.
By Midian at 9:12 AM ON 04/04/08
EEEWWWW GROSSS!!!!!! That old guy tried to hit on her!!!!
By fnh317 at 11:52 PM ON 04/19/08
sweet!!!!!!!!!nowmake on a recumbent
By Treoinmypocket at 9:52 AM ON 04/25/08
Sorry - but this is highly inaccurate. This in no way simulates the motion of an elliptical - it mimics a stepper. The motion on this is up and down only. An actual bicycle mimics an elliptical more accurately (or vice versa as the bicycle was the inspiration for the elliptical design).
The only reason I point this out is that many people - and hence a big reason for the popularity of ellipticals - experience knee pain with steppers. Ellipticals provide a way for those who like the work out of a stepper to get it, without that pain.
By stealth694 at 4:41 PM ON 05/18/08
Its got potential
It will depend on how much it costs and if they could install a gearing so that going up hills would be easier for a beginner
By bryano at 8:14 PM ON 05/18/08
the motion isn't at all elliptical--treoinmypocket is 100% correct. I give it points though for getting rid of the saddle. Fitness-seekers will work more core muscles balancing in a standing position, vs. seated. Mr Ross ought to know this though, and would do better to drop the elliptical trainer BS from his sales pitch.
By techgear at 9:57 AM ON 05/21/08
Where is the version for people that are not so tall?Vanessa seemed to be stretched out on the bike,maybe getting more workout in her abs than anywhere else while trying to stay on it.Looks more like 4 sK8ters to play with.Keep it on the flat....Boardwalk or park play.You'll never get me to buy one.I like the speed on a real bike..Ohh yeh that was funny with the older guy askin 4 her name.. ha. Who knows where the eyes were roaming from the guy w shades on all the time?
By Jay at 7:43 PM ON 05/29/08
Funny how people think the old man wants to hit on her....um, maybe he just wanted to know her name, could that in any way, in a remote galaxy, be possible?? I ask people I talk to their name, not necessarily because I'm hitting on them, but to be polite and I like to know who I'm talking to.