Thane USA, which produces dozens of "as seen on tv" fitness products, makes the OrbiTrek elliptical. This is a small, light, compact elliptical machine designed for residential use. The OrbiTrek has foot pedals and upper body arms, so you get a full-body workout. Although compact, the OrbiTrek elliptical can handle user loads equal to larger, standard elliptical machines.
Specifications
The OrbiTrek elliptical is a compact machine with a small footprint at 37 inches long and 20 inches wide. The entire machine only weighs 53 lbs as the frame is comprised of mostly plastic and some light steel. Thane USA claims the OrbiTrek elliptical is designed to "safely and effectively" hold up to 275 lbs. However, you may or may not feel comfortable working out vigorously on a machine that only weighs a little over 50 lbs. if you weigh 250 lbs.
Features
The OrbiTrek elliptical has a manual tension knob. Turn the knob clockwise to increase the pedal resistance or turn the knob counterclockwise to decrease the pedal resistance. The basic OrbiTrek elliptical includes a four function workout computer. The deluxe OrbiTrek elliptical includes a five function monitor. The monitor screen displays your workout time, distance, approximate calories burned and speed. The five function monitor includes an odometer. The OrbiTrek elliptical sells for around $200, as of 2011.
Comparison
Standard elliptical machines are much larger and heavier than the OrbiTrek elliptical. Depending on the type and model, a standard elliptical typically weighs between 150 and 300 lbs. However, the maximum user weight for some standard ellipticals is 275 lbs., the same as the Thane OrbiTrek. Other ellipticals have maximum user weight limits up to 400 lbs. The OrbiTrek elliptical is lighter and more portable than a standard elliptical, but it may not seem as sturdy.
Warning
Some versions of the Thane OrbiTrek elliptical have been recalled. In 2009, Thane recalled two OrbiTrek ellipticals due to a falling hazard. According to the recall file on the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website, the owner's manual instructs the buyer to place a spring washer in an incorrect position. The washer causes several bolts to loosen, resulting in a fall hazard; however, no actual incidents or injuries were reported.
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