The Essential RT8 is a nice recumbent bike.  It gets you in very good shape fast.  It has a few different programs and you can customize some other programs for yourself.  It has heart monitor grips as well as a heart monitor band to make sure your heart rate is where you would like it to be. This is also required for some of the programs to work correctly.   The seat is extremly comfortable as well as the back support and both of them can be adjusted.  The pedals are comfortable and can be adjusted.  The only draw back to the Essential RT8 is that it is hard to peddle.  Even on the easiest level it takes a lot of strength and endurance to ride.  I'm not sure if this is just something that can be adjusted or if it is what this model bike is supose to be.  This can be a drawback or a plus depending on if you stick it out.  It has enabled me to get in great shape quickly due to the extra work required to peddle.  I would recommend this bike for the serious bike rider that would like to get in shape.

stevenkathee

Huntington Beach, CA