The concept behind the Trixter Xdream is to combine innovations in fitness and gaming technology to create an interactive exercise bike that simulates outdoor cycling. It looks the part; like a spin-bike on steroids. Then there is the LCD screen, transporting the rider out of gym and into a virtual world of desert tracks and highland trails.
While there are still limitations, the Xdream succeeds in closely mimicking the feel of cycling, and in immersing the rider in the virtual world it creates. The gears can be worked manually, although I found that the automatic default setting accurately reflected the terrain and the gradients. The brakes work too, and while the steering is intuitive to a degree, I crashed often and quite spectacularly, especially in higher levels when I was more intent on winning than braking or steering.
There is a quick-start mode, a group ride mode (obviously requiring two or more bikes), and a structured fitness option. I chose the latter, which offers a steady progression through 20 fitness levels, over a variety of courses, and covering four main terrain types. After creating the profile of my on-screen avatar, I was joined by five virtual opponents who I was required to defeat in the race in order to progress to the next level.
I found the early races relatively easy, although the laterally moving handlebars were somewhat disconcerting at first. This does, however, introduce an upper-body element to the workout and strengthens the core muscles.
As I moved through the levels the race duration increased, the gradients steepened and my virtual companions quickened. By the end of the month I had completed 12 levels and was on the cusp of “expert”. I was also obsessed, not only with winning, but doing so in style. I am not a fan of cycling, indoors or out, but I love this bike. However, at around £6,000 it is an expensive mistress. So I must say adieu, until I find a gym where I can rekindle my love.
· This article was amended on Thursday August 28 2008. We originally misspelled the Trixter X-Dream’s name as Trickster X-Dream. This has been corrected.
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