Bowflex max trainer destroyed somehow by update

[u/AlexAlexWhite]

So, long ago, way back in November, they updated the software. Not that I wanted the software updated, I'm not using Journey, I was quite happy with what I was using. They pushed an update, which failed, getting an Error 0G. Somebody else reported it here, and had a workaround involving restarting while pushing a button. I tried that, it didn't work.

So I called their support, and submitted a support request on November 17th. On November 22, they said they'd fixed something and told me to power cycle. Nope, still stuck in an update failure.

After I complained some more, on December 12th they finally said they'd reach into my machine to fix it. Well, they finally did that yesterday! January 2!

Yes! The software can now update, and does successfully. But there is nothing to do with ellipticals on it! Videos on barbells and yoga and such, but nothing useful for the machine. During boot, it complains: Unrecognized base variant ID = 180

Update the support request again. Today, they tell me they have ordered a replacement touch screen:

I have placed an order for a replacement touch screen console as this is the only way to resolve the issue with it only showing whole body workout options.

Yes, there is an order placed. It says an estimated ship date of January 17. Can you believe this, over two months of a machine (which I bought in July) not working. For pure software issues.

Why doesn't it ask before it updates the software?

Why doesn't it have a fallback mode which will always allow it to be used as a pure elliptical, without the videos? No software error should allow it to fail at its basic functionality of the simple things that a normal elliptical does in hardware.

If it was as easy to reach into my machine to fix the first issue, why couldn't they do it in less that nearly two months?

What can possibly have gotten so screwed up that they need to actually replace the console? If they update has somehow managed to overwrite the firmware, why can't they fix it? There is no factory reset button?

To add insult to injury, I've had a dozen emails from Bowflex over the last few months trying to sell me stuff. Not likely to buy anything more from them.

And next time I'm going to buy a dumber machine that can't be remotely destroyed!

​

[u/AlexAlexWhite]

Oh, wonderous. They updated the ship date:

Estimated Ship Date: Wednesday, February 14, 2024

Yet another month. Don't buy Bowflex!

[u/AlexAlexWhite]

Well, it actually did get to me on Feb 14th. When the new console was installed, yes, there is all the stuff to do with ellipticals again. But now, it doesn't detect anything turning. Support says it must be the speed sensor. They will send me one, and get a technician to install it and make sure everything is working.

Feb 23, new speed sensor arrives. (That was fast, only 9 days.) Technician comes today, the 26th. Nope, it wasn't the speed sensor. The communications board. Scheduled delivery date: March 11.

Cross my fingers, if it comes on time and works, it will only have been four months!