A dumbbell rack that you never wanted to buy because it takes up space, costs money and, in the end, only gets half-used. BowFlex has claimed for years to have the answer to precisely this problem: the SelectTech. Now the next generation – the SelectTech 52 – is here, and it brings with it a few changes.
How it works:
When you lift the barbell, it automatically picks up the set weight; the remaining plates remain in the supplied rack. In practice, the system is quicker than reloading the bar – a real bonus for supersets or when switching between exercises.
Same principle, better ingredients
The basic concept remains the same: a dial on the side, set the weight, lift – that’s it. The changes lie on the inside. The rotating mechanism, previously made of plastic, is now made of metal components in the SelectTech 52. It may sound unspectacular, but this is the part where older models tended to give way after intensive use. Whether this makes the difference BowFlex promises in practice remains to be seen in everyday use – at least on paper, it’s a sensible step.
"Anyone investing today expects a dumbbell that will still work perfectly even after years of intensive use."
Joachim Beckert, Director of D2C at Johnson Health Tech
Flat rather than conical
Visually, too, there have been some changes. The tapered weights of the previous model are a thing of the past – the SelectTech 52 features flat discs, as seen on classic dumbbells. This is not only intended to look better, but also to provide a more balanced training experience across all weight levels. Whether this is actually noticeable or just marketing talk remains to be seen – but the design is certainly a winner.
15 steps, one piece of equipment
The weight adjustment offers 15 settings between 2 and 24 kilograms: 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 14, 16, 18, 20, 23 and 24 kg. The increments aren’t always even – there’s a gap between 11 and 14 kilograms, which can be frustrating depending on your fitness level. However, if you’re looking for a piece of equipment that covers everything from bicep curls to heavy squats, this will still serve you well.
A pair of SelectTech 52s is the equivalent of 15 pairs of traditional dumbbells. For anyone who doesn’t have the space or doesn’t fancy a fully stocked rack, the case is clear.
Optional: The Dumbbell App
BowFlex supplies the SelectTech 52 with connectivity to the JRNY app. Without a subscription, you get trainer-led strength and full-body exercises – available in German, although the workouts themselves are in English. If you want more, you’ll need to pay: the paid subscription offers personalised workouts, more coaches and performance tracking. You get two months free – after that, it’s up to you. The subscription isn’t compulsory; the dumbbells work just fine without it.
Price and availability
The pair of dumbbells costs 598 euros, whilst a single dumbbell costs 299 euros. Each dumbbell measures 44 × 21 × 21 centimetres and weighs 25.2 kilograms, including the base. If you’d like a stand to go with them, you’ll need to buy it separately.
Technical Specifications
| Weight categories | 15 (2–24 kg) |
| Adjustment | Rotary control with metal components |
| Weight form | Flat discs |
| Dimensions | 44 × 21 × 21 cm |
| Weight (including shelf) | 25.2 kg |
| App | JRNY (German/English) |
| Price of a single dumbbell | €299.00 |
| Price for a pair of dumbbells | €598.00 |
Editorial assessment:
The pros show us how it’s done: strength training and cycling – a combination that really pays off. Fitness expert Lorenz Westner confirms: “Even amateur cyclists can benefit from this.” Does that mean you have to fork out 600 euros for a set of dumbbells? Definitely not. The idea behind the Vario dumbbell is clever and saves you from constantly shuffling weights back and forth – but for less than half the price, you get a solid set of dumbbells, a barbell and two kettlebells (e.g. 8 and 12 kg). Sounds like the better deal to me.
BIKE editor Laurin Lehner
Laurin Lehner
Editor
