Like everything else about the Deskcise Pro V9, its design is pleasantly simple and minimalist. I have the white version, which blends in seamlessly with the rest of my home. I’m also a big fan of the wheels (which also have the option to lock) on the bottom because they make it easy to move the desk around from room to room.
Even the display is straightforward—it tracks things like your time, distance, calories burned, and speed (among others). Want to adjust the flywheel’s resistance as you work? You can choose from eight different levels and ramp things up or cool ‘em down with the turn of a knob.
Both the desktop and chair height are adjustable via an easy-to-use lever, and the desktop also moves forward and back for a more comfortable experience. A padded cushion helps keep your wrists in a neutral position—something I personally love, because I deal with occasional carpal tunnel symptoms (but, as always, consult with a medical professional instead of taking my word for it).
In between the seat and the display, there’s also a textured cup holder for drinks. While convenient, be warned: I’ve knocked over multiple coffees while getting on the bike and have now learned to place beverages in the holder after I’ve already settled into the seat.
Original photo by SELF writer Esther Carlstone
The footprint
Also surprising: how compact the entire unit is. Like many people, I invested in a Peloton bike during the pandemic, so I was expecting the Deskcise to be a similar size. According to the brand, it measures 37.6 inches long, 22.8 inches wide, and 42.5 to 48.4 inches high (depending on how you adjust the desktop). It also weighs 51 pounds. My Peloton is significantly heavier and longer.
The wheels even tuck underneath the Deskcise to create even more floor space if needed. It’s so slim that I can roll it into my coat closet to keep it out of sight when guests come over. (That said, the compactness is relative to your space: Make sure to measure before buying and take note of the Deskcise’s dimensions.)
How it works
The first thing I noticed was that typing while cycling is much easier than it sounds. The Deskcise’s pedals turn smoothly and quietly—plus, the machine is fairly sturdy, so there was zero wobble as I was working away.