Kettler Axos P Cross Trainer Review

Kettler-Axos-P-Cross-TrainerPrice: £299
Buy From:
Fitness Superstore

Ratings (out of 5)
Overall Rating:
3
Build Quality: 3
Ease of use: 3
Console Features: 3
Value for Money: 4

 

 

The Cross P is part of the Axos budget range of fitness products from Kettler. There is a cycle and a rower to complete the trio.

Usually synonymous with quality German engineering, Kettler’s new Axos range is manufactured in the Far East to keep costs down so what can we expect?  Firstly, this is a compact machine, measuring just 150cm long by 68cm wide which will suit the space conscious consumer but, like the majority of compact ellipticals, the stride length is compromised as a result.  At 16 inches and supplied with a rear drive flywheel, the Axos has that traditional, slightly up and down, step like quality to the movement which may feel a little inhibitive for taller users.

The footplates also seem to be quite far apart as they straddle a quite chunky looking casing which does cause your knees to invert towards the centre stem.  Over a lengthy workout it is possible that this could become quite uncomfortable for shorter individuals at higher resistance levels.  It isn’t the worst example I have seen and when compared to alternatives at this price like York’s X201, the Axos certainly feels a lot smoother. This is because unlike a lot of cheaper ellipticals, Kettler have incorporated a 14kg flywheel offering 16 levels of electronically controlled resistance.

Typical flywheel weights on budget ellipticals are usually less than 10kg so the Axos has a lot more resistance available than most.  There is a 130kg (20.4 stone) maximum user weight and the whole thing weighs 60kg so it feels stable to use.

Kettler Axos P Cross Trainer ConsoleThe console has a monochrome LCD display with a continuous display of feedback, including time, speed, distance, RPM, calories and heart rate.  There are 12 workout programs including a heart rate control option with an audible alarm when maximum pulse rate is exceeded.

There is nothing too spectacular but plenty of options available to maintain good variety and hand pulse grips on the static handlebars come as standard.  So, although the Axos doesn’t compare in terms of engineering quality to the German made offerings from Kettler like the Unix P or Elyx series, you wouldn’t expect them to at this price and Kettler still have no qualms about offering their standard 3 year parts and labour warranty.

PROS

  • 14kg flywheel provides smooth and challenging resistance for the price
  • Compact footprint
  • Good build quality

CONS

  • Issues with foot plate spacing may cause discomfort for some.

In summary then, at under £300 the Axos is better than the alternatives in terms of both resistance and build quality.  The biomechanics won’t suit everyone and I would certainly recommend you try before you buy but this is certainly one to seriously consider for those on a budget.

Price: £299
Buy From:
Fitness Superstore