As someone who spends hours at a desk, this mini bike has been a game-changer. The first thing I noticed was how surprisingly heavy and sturdy it feels - none of that flimsy plastic nonsense. When I pedal during Zoom calls, the motion is buttery smooth and completely silent (my coworkers never suspect a thing!).

The 8 resistance levels offer real versatility. On lazy days I keep it light while binge-watching Netflix, but when I want a challenge, level 8 makes my legs burn in the best way. Pro tip: Pointing your toes forward really helps stabilize the side-to-side movement some reviewers mentioned.

What surprised me most was the arm workout option. Swapping the pedals takes seconds, and the resistance bands add a nice upper body burn. Though fair warning - you can't use bands and pedals simultaneously as they get tangled. I wish it came with a proper non-slip mat though; the included 'exercise mat' is basically just a floor protector.

After 3 weeks of daily use, I'm sleeping better and my restless leg syndrome has improved dramatically. For $100, this compact machine delivers serious value - especially with the lifetime warranty that actually means something (they sent me a replacement unit no questions asked when I reported a minor noise issue).

If you're debating between models, go for the Plus version. The app connectivity and additional accessories make it worth the extra $30. Just measure your desk clearance first - at 5'6", I had to scoot my chair back a few inches to avoid knee bumps.