Good Cross Trainer, flawed console software
Good Cross Trainer, flawed console software
This is a longer review than I would normally provide because I wanted to explain what was behind the title.
I chose the Viavito Sino after reading some very good reviews on seemingly professional, unbiased sites and much of what they said holds true but I now doubt many of them went beyond the Sweatband website information.
First the good bits, and there are plenty good things to report, before I explain why the cross trainer was eventually returned.
I agree with others that the construction manual is awful but they have a great YouTube video with step by step instructions that are easy to follow. Also, the small components such as bolts, washers, etc are laid out on a sheet of cardboard with the component silhouette behind, fully labelled and held in place by a tight plastic cover. It is an excellent way to pack these components and I only wish other companies would do the same.
The cross trainer itself has an excellent action, good stride length, is very smooth - I really liked using it and it’s a shame it was finally returned.
The user instructions are poor - they are part of the construction manual and are equally awful. Unfortunately there isn’t a YouTube user guide to explain the programmes but experienced gym members will have no real problems working most of it out.
The console problems first arose with the calorie count and effort meter (Watts). These were roughly 80% above the readings I’m familiar with from various gym cross trainers and I soon learned to ignore them. I realise these counters are only for guidance and generally not accurate but these readings are way off and I would not recommend the Viavito Sino if you need to use it for calorie control / counting.
The real problem is with the Heart Rate Monitor system, especially when using Viavito’s own remote chest strap. The Sino’s handlebar pulse sensors are fitted to the static handles, not the moving ones. However, the Heart Rate Control only work with a chest strap and one is therefore essential if you wish to fully exercise whilst using the HRC programmes. This is quite common in home cross trainers and would not be a problem if it worked but it does not.
Mid exercise and occasionally using the handlebar sensors my heart rate was recorded as 140 - 150 bpm but the reading with the chest strap sensors would never go above 80 - 85 bpm. That meant the automatic HRC speed / effort controls did not kick in and I could not monitor my heart rate.
The Sweatband Support Team were excellent and really tried to solve the problem but a replacement chest strap and two replacement consoles all gave the same result and I decided to return the cross trainer for a refund.
Looking back across previous reviews I found other references to problems with the console readings so this is not a new problem. Also, Sweatband and Viavito are part of the same company group so the solution is totally within their hands - just sort out the console / software. When that is done this will be an excellent home cross trainer once again.
21 août 2020
Avis spontané