I've used an array of in-home ellipticals and this one by far is my favorite! First I was extremely impressed with the fast shipping for a freight item, it took less than 5 days from the time the order was placed until it arrived on my doorstep. Installation wasn't difficult at all but definitely required some good prep work to make the process smooth (e.g., laying out all the parts, separating screws from packaging, reviewing the installation video guide on YouTube). Preparation took about 15 minutes and installation took about 2 hours. This elliptical operates super quiet and revolutions are very smooth and low impact on knees. I'm primarily using the BXE116 model for HIIT training and the 25 resistance levels are more than sufficient for my needs. The sound effects are super motivating and really help propel you through your workout and the built in speakers are surpringly loud and feature decent audio quality. The design of the bxe 116 exceeded my expectations after I assembled it, and didn't look like cheap at home fitness equipment I've seen. Overall, i highly recommend the Bowflex BXE116 over any of the Sole Elliptical models (E. G. E35).
Be prepared...this box is HUGE! The machine is very big as well and weighs over 300lbs. The shipping was fast and it took 3 hours to assemble. I never do well assembling things that I order but the directions were very clear and easy to follow. I would recommend assembling the item in the room in which you plan to leave it. It is very heavy and big. However as far as the workout goes, it is awesome. I never exercise and my job consists of sitting at a desk between 8-12 hours a day. I purchased this machine because my health was going downhill due to work. I am very pleased with my purchase and I am noticing I have more energy and feel less pain during the day as I am sitting at my desk. (I have arthritis and fibromyalgia so being active is important) I highly recommend this product for anyone who is wanting to get into shape and in need of an elliptical that is easy on the joints.
Pros: Easy To Use, Operates Smoothly, Quiet
Cons: Hard To Store
I would recommend this to a friend!
Response from nautilus.comBy bowflexpwr, bowflexpwr, October 13, 2025
Hey Darlene - We are so happy to hear you're loving your BXE116 elliptical and it's helping with your workout routine. You're a rock star, keep up the great work! --Bowflex Team
Response from nautilus.comBy bowflexpwr, bowflexpwr, October 6, 2025
Hey Darlene - We are so happy to hear you're loving your BXE116 elliptical and it's helping with your workout routine. You're a rock star, keep up the great work! --Bowflex Team
I was surprised at how challenging this elliptical is - even in the manual setting. Seems like the ellipticals at the gym have much less resistance and I'm able to go at a faster pace. This BowFlex elliptical (even on the easiest settings) is a much tougher workout than I expected.
Pros: Easy To Use, Operates Smoothly, Quiet, Sturdy Base
Cons: Had to assemble the whole thing, Hard To Store
I've had it for a week, it is heavy. It only took about an hour to put it together with no help. Instructions are clear. Itd be easier with 2 people to build but is possible doing it alone. It works great. I'm still learning different modes and what works best for my desired outcome.
Pros: Easy assembly, Easy To Use, Operates Smoothly, Quiet, Sturdy Base
I am over 65 have had two back surgeries and suffer with Fibromyalgia so feeling Exhausted and in pain makes it hard to work out or go anywhere to work out in just a few min a day in my home i have seen some improvements and i could not be happier.
Pros: Easy To Use, Operates Smoothly, Quiet, Sturdy Base