Cubii JR2 Review After Using It For One Month

By Katie Pierson

Certified Spinning® Instructor & Personal Trainer

Katie has been a certified fitness professional for twenty years and holds ten fitness certifications, including Spinning Elite and Personal Training. She has shared her expert knowledge in many fitness outlets like Bicycling & Verywellfit.

At a time in our lives when people are spending more time at their desks than ever, the Cubii provides a much-needed solution to this problem. Not only is this device ideal for long periods of sitting throughout the day, but for those that are also rehabbing an injury or suffer from low mobility issues. For example, I, unfortunately, ruptured one of my calf muscles recently, so my doctor placed strict stipulations on my activity level. Luckily, I received my Cubii JR2 shortly after my injury and used it during my recovery. 

I have to admit that through the years, I have purchased various products in this category, including the original AirClimber from QVC years ago. However, I have to say that the elliptical design is what I love most about the JR2 compared to others on the market. The design of the JR2 makes each pedal stroke smooth. Read on as we discuss our hands-on experience with the Cubii JR2.

Our Rating: 4.9 / 5.0

Cubii JR2 Elliptical

4.9

25% lighter & 10% more compact than Cubii JR1. Unlike any other Cubii elliptical, the Cubii JR2 includes built-in adjustable foot straps.

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Detailed Review

The Order & Delivery Process

The order and delivery process for the Cubii JR2 was a breeze; I was able to complete my order in a matter of minutes in the official Cubii Store. I fully anticipated receiving this equipment in one to two weeks, but I was pleasantly surprised when it arrived at my doorstep only days after submitting my order.

Assembly

I am always leery when something says, “some assembly required,” but I was excited about the minimal assembly needed for the JR2.

The pedals were the only components of this Cubii model that needed to be assembled. The packaging included the screws, screwdriver, and clear instructions on assembling the pedals correctly. It actually took me longer to unpack the box contents than it did to build the JR2. However, it was a very straightforward assembly process. 

How We Rated the JR2

When deciding how to rate the JR2, we chose the features that we felt painted the best picture of this equipment category. We focused on factors such as

• construction quality
• riding experience
• resistance
• connectivity and apps
• portability
• storage

My Detailed Review Based on Hands-On Testing

The Cubii JR2 features eight levels of magnetic resistance, a belt-drive train system, and accommodates riders up to 250 lbs. and all activity levels. This model also features a free Studio+ app from Cubii.

Although the Cubii JR2 is one of many under-desk ellipticals on the market, this model offers a little more than its competitors. It is reasonably priced at $249, and the JR2 packs a powerful punch in the form of low-impact cardiovascular training. Since this model is only made to be used when seated, it decreases the potential for falls and other injuries sometimes associated with exercise. Due to its compact size easily fits underneath tables and desks, making it an ideal companion during your workday. 

After having the opportunity to test this model firsthand while recovering from my injury, I loved its convenience. I found that permanently keeping it under my desk gave me the opportunity (and a reminder) to use it regularly. Like with anything, establishing a routine helped. I would try to pedal for 5-10 minutes every hour. I added a reminder on my Smartwatch that helped me follow my routine. I found that I wasn’t as stiff after more prolonged bouts of sitting, and I also felt that I got a little exercise in. The fantastic design of this elliptical makes each pedal rotation fluid and balanced, which is not always the case with this fitness equipment category. Do I compare the workouts on the JR2 to getting on my indoor cycling bike? Well, no, since this machine is not designed with that goal in mind. It does not allow for the amount of overall muscle activation, range of motion, and intensity level for which other pieces of equipment are made. Still, as an under-desk elliptical, this piece of equipment delivers. 

One of the most significant advantages that Cubii has over its competitors is the free Cubii Studio+ application. This application is available for download for iPhone and Android devices. We loved dialing the intensity up a notch and taking recorded or even live classes from real instructors using various Cubii models. You can easily select the workout that fits your needs with the dashboard. Users can choose workouts based on collection, format, duration, instructor, or functionality. Although we wish the JR2 linked to the app via Bluetooth like a few other Cubii models, the app still allows you to upload your data manually to keep track of your progress. Other great features of the app include accountability groups and fitness challenges that can all be joined for free. Usually, apps like this require a monthly fee, so it was refreshing to have this be just another bonus of owning a Cubii model.

Cubii JR2 Performance Rating

We put the Cubii JR2 to the test to see what this compact elliptical had to offer and how it would perform. Below are our ratings for this model. 

Mechanics & Parts of the Bike

Note: I never needed to use the ring, as I found that the machine stayed in place with the non-slip rubber pads.

Cubii Support / Customer Service

Since I have not experienced any issues with my JR2, I have not used Cubii’s support firsthand, but Cubii makes it easy to contact them via the website. Currently, the website states that the customer service team is taking longer to respond to the increased volume of requests. Therefore, Cubii has put together a number of resources for customers to find answers to their questions rather than waiting to hear back from customer service. 

Warranty

The Cubii JR2 offers a free 30-day trial and free returns. It also includes a two-year warranty that begins when the product is registered. This warranty covers normal wear and tear. In addition, Cubii will repair, provide replacement parts, or replace the product depending on the issue. 

What Are The Customers Saying?

Before spending your hard-earned cash on home fitness equipment, it’s essential to do some research. One of the best places to start is checking reviews from verified customers.

So as you can see, overall, the Cubii JR2 is a solid elliptical machine that meets your fitness needs. It’s simple to set up, and the instruction manual is clear and concise.

Comparison with the Other Cubii Models

Cubii offers many models to fit its consumers’ various needs. Below is a breakdown of the models that they currently offer.

Cubii JR2+

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Cubii JR2+ Elliptical

4.7

Cubii JR2+ is the upgraded version of the JR2. The main improvement is that it can connect to the Cubii mobile app via Bluetooth, allowing you to sync your progress across our app, Apple Watch, Fitbit, and HealthKit.

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Priced at $249, the Cubii JR2+ is one of the few models that offer Bluetooth connectivity. As a result, users can easily monitor their progress through Smartwatch connectivity and integration with the Studio+ app. In addition, this model also provides a backlit monitor to track and view your metrics easily.

Cubii GO  

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Cubii Go Under Desk Elliptical

4.8

Cubii Go is made with glass-filled nylon, a material that allowed us to build you a lightweight, continuous unit that is perfect for micro-positioning; a feature to ensure Cubii Go fits seamlessly into your day-to-day life. When not in use, the compact design can be rolled and stored away.

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The Go’s built-in handles and wheels make it an ultra-portable model with eight magnetic resistance levels and a belt system. Unfortunately, the GO requires manual entry of metrics into the Studio+ app. This model is priced at $299. This model has over 200 five-star ratings on the Cubii website.

Cubii Move

Weighing only 17.6 lbs, the Move is the lightest of the Cubii of the models. This model is touted as being a “starter model” and is priced at $199. The Move is the only elliptical of the fleet that does not have a handle for easy portability and offers six resistance levels. However, this model does include a basic LCD monitor that tracks various metrics. 

Cubii Pro

Cubii PRO

4.7

The Cubii Pro is an under the desk elliptical - and the only Bluetooth enabled elliptical on the market with an app.

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Bluetooth connectivity is available with the Cubii Pro, allowing all metrics to transfer into the Studio+ app and other health-tracking devices quickly. This model also offers eight levels of magnetic resistance and includes a built-in handle for easy portability. This model is available for $199.

Cubii Total Body +

The Cubii Total Body+ is the newest Cubii model on the market. This piece of equipment delivers a total body workout experience with the addition of an ergonomic pulley system of a rowing machine. The Total Body + also includes Bluetooth connectivity to the Studio + app. Additionally, this model offers twelve magnetic resistance levels, the most provided by any Cubii model. This model is priced at $449.

Cubii JR 

Cubii JR1

4.7

The leading ergonomic under desk elliptical that lets you workout or rehab while you sit at home or the office.

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The Cubii JR is one of the original Cubii models. It includes eight levels of resistance and is heavier than the newer models. Unfortunately, this model is only available as a refurbished option but can be purchased from the Cubii website for $169.00. You can also find it on Amazon.

Alternatives & Comparison with Cubii JR2

Before we break down additional alternatives to the Cubii JR2, let’s discuss the difference between an elliptical and a cycle. The main difference is the shape of the pedal stroke. Although they both go around in a fluid motion, a cycle has a circular stroke compared to an elliptical with an oval shape. Often desk cycles require additional desk height because of the circular pedal stroke and the need for more knee clearance. 

Another difference between these two types of models is the pedal type. An elliptical style will have a larger pedal for the whole foot to be placed. Compared to a cycle style that will offer more of a traditional bike pedal with a foot strap.

Below are a few other non-Cubii brands to consider.

DeskCycle

DeskCycle 2 Bike

4.7

A high-quality portable under desk bike that keeps you focused, improves productivity and burns calories.

Price & Reviews

The DeskcCycle products are incredibly popular in the under-desk cycle category and have excellent ratings. This brand offers DeskCycle 1 and DeskCycle 2. Below you can view the differences between these two models.

DeckCycle 1

The DeskCycle 1 has a 4.6 out of 5 consumer rating with over 7,000 reviews and retails for $199. Users love that this model is “smooth and silent” and that this product is “surprisingly awesome.” Since this is the “cycle” category, the pedal stroke is circular. This model weighs four pounds more than the Cubii Jr2, weighing 23 pounds. This cycle has eight levels of magnetic resistance that provide almost 40 pounds worth of resistance. Rider’s progress can be tracked through a removable console, via Smartwatches such as Apple and FitBit, or on their app when using a desktop or phone. One exciting feature is that the maximum weight recommendation is a whopping 500 pounds!

DeskCycle 2

This other model from DeskCycle is adjustable, allowing it to fit under most desk heights. This model is also well-liked, with over 4,000 reviews rating it 4.6 out of 5. Users tout this cycle as “the real deal” and “the best investment I have ever made.” The DeskCycle 2 is slightly more expensive than the DesckCycle1, with a retail price of $229. This model also includes a larger display. In addition, this model also consists of eight levels of magnetic resistance that offer 39 pounds of resistance. Connectivity for this model is the same as DeskCycle 1. 

Sunny Magnetic Under Desk Elliptical 

Sunny Under Desk Elliptical (SF-E3872)

4.6

Use the tension knob to select 8 levels of belt drive magnetic resistance paired with a low maintenance design to provide a wide variety of exercise intensities to fit your specific needs.

Price & Reviews Buy from Sunny Health

The Sunny SF-E3872 is manufactured by the company Sunny Health and Fitness. This under-desk elliptical includes eight levels of magnetic resistance and a belt drive system and features a seven-inch stride length, and retails for $149.99. With almost 10,000 reviews, this model scored 4.5 out of 5 from purchasers. While many purchasers raved about the price and quality, a few older consumers said it was challenging to move since it weighs 25 pounds. Other great features of the SF-E3872 include a max user weight of 280 lbs and a screen that tracks many metrics. The workout metrics include elapsed time, distance, speed, and calories. Unfortunately, a free app is not included.

Bottom Line

The Cubii JR2 is a powerful piece of workout equipment when you consider the smooth pedal stroke it provides and the size of the machine. If you want to get back into fitness, add a little exercise to your office routine, or are trying to rehabilitate an injury, then the Cubii JR2 is a machine you should consider.