Bowflex Revolution Home Gym - Another Perspective

by Hal Davis
(Las Vegas, Nevada)

So I posted the original review of the machine shortly after the yellow strap inside the engine assembly snapped around February of 2011. Well, in November of 2011, it snapped again! This was absolutely incredible to me. It was again the left side strap (as you are looking toward the engine assemble from the leg press side), and it was again a violent event. I was doing leg presses with only 85# on each side of the bars.

This time, I believe I have discovered the reason for the failure. Behind the yellow strap, in what appears to be the method used to reduce friction between the strap and the hub it rides against, is a thin piece of what may be some type of plastic non-sticky clear strap-like material (teflon maybe?).

The place the yellow strap split/tore/failed was right where the end of the tape ended on the hub. I don't know for sure (but I pretty much am), but the end of the plastic strap must have been rubbing against the underside of the yellow strap, causing it to wear out and tear/fail much faster. The yellow strap break was right where the end of the plastic strap was. I believe if the plastic strap would have been longer, at least past the point on the hub where the yellow strap would make contact with the hub, the strap may have lasted a lot longer. C'mon Nautilus, can't we figure this out?

Because you cannot see into this portion of the machine to inspect it regularly, and because I seemed to get almost 5 years out of the first/original part, I had no reason to conduct an inspection of the strap at only 9 months after replacing the original part. One thing for sure now though, the engine cover is no longer bolted on. I did this for easy inspection of the internal parts.

One thing I was happy about. Nautilus again gladly replaced the part. Kudos to them.

If you own or use this machine, one thing I would strongly suggest...take the engine cover off and look at the yellow bands inside. If they are frayed, call Nautilus and request new ones. By conducting this simple inspection you may avoid the shock of having the machine fail during an exercise, and quite possibly save yourself an injury.

I will continue to use the machine...but the ten year warranty period is approaching...anyone want to buy a Bowflex Revolution? :-)