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Startseite | English | Comparison of the ElliptiGO models

Product families

Introduction

For people who are dealing with the topic for the first time, it may be a little difficult to find their way around the different models. The following description of the product families should provide a first impression.

The main difference between the two ElliptiGO product families is the movement when pedaling. This runs in a circle on stand up bikes (SUB, RSUB, MSUB), similar to normal bicycles. An elliptical orbit is described on the elliptical or long stride models (3C, 8C, 11R).

This manufacturer video gives a good overview of the two product families…

With a view to running, all ElliptiGO bikes allow training that is much gentler on the joints. From this point of view, in my experience, the elliptical models stand out positively from the stand up bikes, especially for longer workouts. The elliptical motion is closer to running than the circular orbit.

Stand up bikes

Technically, the stand up bikes are basically normal bicycles with a slightly different structure, a comparatively high handlebar and – of course – without a saddle.

The SUB is no longer available as a new bike. Since I own it myself, I’ll leave it in the comparison below. Successor models are the RSUB for the road and the MSUB for use on unpaved roads.

The RSUB has the same frame as the MSUB, but 28 inch wheels with street tires (ETRTO 42-622), a rigid fork and the same 8-speed gears as the SUB, although this has a different effect on the RSUB.

I have never ridden an RSUB myself, but in the comparison table below it can probably be classified mostly as the SUB, but in terms of handling it is more like the MSUB.

With a minimum gear range of 3.15 m, the mountain suitability is probably medium to good, the speed achievable on straight roads and downhill as well as the range can be rated as very high.

Technical data stand up bikes

Elliptical bikes

The pedals on the elliptical models run on tracks. So they don’t really have much in common with a traditional bicycle…

Due to this construction, they are significantly more maintenance and care-intensive and also place higher demands on the condition of the surface.

The three models all have the same frame and the track/ load wheel sytsem is also identical. While the 3C (Sturmey-Archer 3-speed hub) and 8C (Shimano 8-speed hub) are quite similar except for the gearshift and minor differences in the equipment, the top model 11R stands out from the C models with a Shimano Alfine 11-speed gear hub, carbon pedals instead of aluminum/plastic, a foldable aluminum steering column instead of a removable steel one, and improved equipment details. It is the lightest of the three models.

By shifting gears sensibly, you can further reduce the strain on your knees on the hills. Therefore, as many gears as possible are of course an advantage.

In my opinion, three gears are not enough for serious running training. Just for leisurely rides in flat reas, I would recommend a 3C.

However, the 8C can definitely be a cheaper alternative to the 11R. The minimum gear range of the 8C is 35 centimeters longer than that of the 11R, which should only have an impact on longer journeys with steeper slopes. The three additional gears of the 11R should be more noticeable on faster journeys on straights or downhill and lead to an overall better gradation of the gears.

If speed and range are the main priorities when using the bike on flat terrain, it may be a good idea to convert to the SUB’s 60 tooth chain wheel, which is available as a spare part. This fits on the crank of the elliptical bikes and increases the gear range accordingly.

What I find disadvantageous about the 3- and 8-speed gearshifts is that they have to be disassembled for lubrication. With the Shimano Alfine 11 of the 11R, the oil is changed quite easily using a drain plug.

Technical data elliptical bikes

Further information

More is described in my articles on the respective models.

Additional information, user manuals and instructional videos can be found on the websites of the manufacturer or the German importer.

Older models and conversions

There are older ElliptiGO models and several conversions that can sometimes be found on the used market.

Discontinued models

• The ElliptiGO Arc was an elliptical compact stride bike that was offered in three different gear variants:
  – Arc 3 with Sturmey-Archer 3-speed hub,
  – Arc 8 with Shimano 8-speed derailleur,
  – Arc 24 with a combination of both gearshifts mentioned above.
  All Arcs have a design flaw that can lead to frame breakage. The manufacturer recalled it in 2021.
  Therefore, an used Arc should not be purchased if you plan to ride it.
  The risk is probably manageable for use with an indoor trainer. Because of the hub gear model installed in the Arc 3 and 24 with the shift chain leading out through the axle, only the Arc 8 might work with the Fluid 365 trainer without technical adjustments.
• The ElliptiGO 8S was an earlier elliptical long stride model with the folding handlebars and carbon pedals of the 11R, but „only“ an 8-speed hub gear. The frame is the same as the current long stride models.
• I already mentioned that the SUB is no longer available for purchase.

Conversions

• There are conversions that are ually referred to as 11C, sometimes as 8R. In these, a Shimano Alfine 11 hub gear was installed on a 3C or 8C.
• This hub gear can be found in MSUB conversions as well.
• I have also seen conversions of various models to a Rohloff SPEEDHUB 14 hub gear or different versions of the stepless Enviolo NuVinci hub gear.
• Recently I even found on the Internet a conversion of a long stride model into a tricycle.

Assessment

Comparison

My personal assessment comparing the models in my fleet, including an assessment compared to running, is as follows…

Advantages and disadvantages

Overall, across all bikes, I see the following key advantages and disadvantages of training with an ElliptiGO compared to running…

Pros

• Joint and back protection
• Greater range with the same amount of time, therefore more variety
• Some core training included
• Fun factor

Cons

• Flexibility and spontaneity, e.g. when doing sports while travelling
• Cost
• Maintenance and care of the equipment
• Greater risk of accidents

Alternatives from other manufacturers

I had also looked at alternatives to ElliptiGO, e.g. stepper models (Streetstepper, Me-Mover) or the Bionic Runner, which is no longer manufactured but can sometimes be bought second-hand. However, these were somehow too technically complex/ too dubious or not practical enough for me, the support or the future of the brand or projects was unclear to me, or I just didn’t like the kind of movement that much.

More interesting seems to be the Cyclete, which is an symbiosis of moutainbike structure and elliptical movement. According to the manufacturer, the patented drive system provides a fluid, powerful running feeling.
It is a technically impressive machine. With a wheelbase of 137 centimeters and 29-inch wheels, it is comparatively large. Due to its design, it does not seem to be suitable for an indoor trainer and if you get a flat rear tire during a tour, you are probably in trouble without puncture spray.
The Cyclete is individually handcrafted in the US, which makes it comparatively expensive. When ordering there, shipping costs and import duties must also be taken into account. Because of the total costs, for me it is not a valid option. However, if there were an importer with spare parts supply in the European Union, a Cyclete might be an alternative.

Startseite | English | Comparison of the ElliptiGO models

Please note…

(Bike) ohne Sattel [without a settle] is a private, non-commercial project that has no connection to manufacturers, importers or dealers. I am a user only. This website is of German origin and subject to the relevant German legal framework. Please excuse any inaccuracies in the translation. The use of my hints, instructions and recommendations is at your own risk, I assume no guarantee or liability for this! Each user is responsible for complying with the relevant local technical and traffic regulations!

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