Body-Solid® Bench (GFID31)

Comment: Pretty much an ideal incline bench, with the opportunity to attach preacher curl attachment. Gap between pads when flat is about 1". Bench is very stable in use, and the bench itself has a solid structure so can be used as a support for rear dips. The frame is very sturdy - I'd say club-gym quality. The bench came with touch-up paint for any scratches caused during use - there were no scratches when delivered. The vinyl has a semi-mat finish that is probably a little thiner than on the club-gym equipment I've used - but it's still thick and looks like it should be tough. Ease of construction has been discussed. Yes, the instructions are in the form of exploded diagrams. However, spend a few minutes playing out and identifying the parts and it's pretty obvious how to build. We started with the base and worked up. With 2 of us working on it it took about 90 mins from starting to unpack the box to having it built. Delivery was speedy. We'd definitely buy Body Solid equipment again.

Comment: This is a decent product for low-load lifting. The manufacturer's claims regarding the frame load capacity (1000 lbs.) seem misleading. The weak points are small, metal tubes where the back support attaches to the support post and where the support post attaches to the body, as well as the frame welds. Solid metal pins would increase my confidence in the product.

Compatibility: This bench works with the Valor BD-6, although only with the safety catches fully extended (bench is taller to support leg developers). I think it would also be fine with any standard squat cage, although, due to downsizing, I'm replacing my squat cage with the Valor.

If I could do things over again, I would probably look for something a little more study, although I might still get this product based on the price.

Pros: Decent for low-load lifting, expandability (e.g., leg developer), fits in most racks/cages, reasonable price

Cons: Fragile design, a bit high to work with some BP safety catches

Comment: Very good product but has some flaws. Mainly the fact that when using attachments the other side of the bench will get off the ground so you have to weigh it down with some extra plates before using attachments. If you have space look into GFID71 - from what i heard that one doesn't have this issue. Otherwise, if you are tight on space, this bench will do just fine if you're willing to deal with this problem.

Comment: The bench came from Bayou fitness and I was delighted with the speed of delivery. It only took three or four days from Louisianna to NY and they shipped the next day. The bench was in very good condition when received. I took my time assembling it and it went together easily, only referred to the sketchy directions twice, after all it is a bench. Not too taxing.

This bench is solid! No wiggles, or shakes, and it can support more weight than I am able to lift, but then I'm an old guy. Some have mentioned the gap between the seat and backrest in the flat and full decline position. I have not found it to be a problem. I have never felt it. Just in case, I had some extra foam to fit in there, but haven't needed it. The only knock I would have is that it is a little tall for my squat rack in the decline position, but it's really a nit.

This is my second piece of Body Solid equipment, I have their cable crossover. I also have a Powerline ab bench (made by body Solid). I am very happy with their equipment and would definitely buy again.

Comment: I got great service buying this bench through Amazon. All expectations were greatly exceeded. The bench was easy to assemble, but the instructions could have been better. If you are good with figuring things out on your own, you won't have a problem. For those who need 1-2-3 instructions, maybe a little more complex. But this is a quality product. My only minor complaint is one of design. I wish that it had MORE available positions. You get a generic incline and decline each at a preset level. For heavy lifters incline and decline arent that special, but for the bodybuilder this could be improved on. Also, It would be nice if the seat-back could come to a full 90 degree postion for supported seated lifts. As it is, you can certainly sit erect, but with no back support. The frustrating thing here is that there appears to be a "groove" that would all a 90 degree position, but the seat and back cushion are so close that it will not allow it. Other than that, I am enjoying this product along with the power rack and new 7 foot barbell!