Bowflex SelectTech 1090: Replace 17 Sets of Dumbbells with One Revolutionary System

The Space-Saving Revolution

Traditional dumbbell sets create an immediate problem: space. A complete set from 10 to 90 pounds requires 17 pairs of dumbbells. With a commercial dumbbell rack, you're looking at roughly 10 feet of wall space and several hundred pounds of equipment. For home gyms in spare bedrooms, garages, or basements, this footprint is often impractical or impossible.

The SelectTech 1090 system condenses this entire weight range into two dumbbells measuring approximately 17 inches long. When stored on the optional stand, the complete system occupies less than 2 feet of floor space. This dramatic space reduction makes serious strength training accessible in homes where traditional dumbbell sets simply won't fit.

The Dial-a-Weight Selection System

The heart of the SelectTech innovation is its dial mechanism. Each dumbbell features large, easy-to-grip dials at both ends. Turn these dials to your desired weight, lift the handle, and internal mechanisms automatically engage only the selected weight plates. Leave the rest in the tray, grab your dumbbells, and start working.

The weight selection process takes literally two seconds per dumbbell once you're familiar with the system. Turn, lift, train. When your set is complete, place the dumbbell back in its tray, turn the dial to your next weight, and continue. This seamless adjustment eliminates the workflow disruption of traditional weight changes.

Weight Range and Increments

The SelectTech 1090 adjusts from 10 to 90 pounds per dumbbell in the following increments:

• 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90 pounds

This provides 17 different weight settings, covering the range needed for virtually all dumbbell exercises. The 5-pound increments work well for most movements, though some users wish for smaller 2.5-pound jumps for exercises like shoulder raises where smaller progressions matter.

Why the Range Matters

The 10-90 pound range handles everything from light rehabilitation exercises and precise shoulder work at the bottom end to heavy chest presses, rows, and shrugs at the top. Most intermediate and advanced lifters find this range sufficient for all dumbbell training needs.

Elite powerlifters or bodybuilders might eventually need weights beyond 90 pounds for certain exercises, but for 95% of home gym users, this range provides years of progressive training before you'd ever approach the upper limit on major lifts.

Build Quality and Durability

Bowflex has refined the SelectTech design through multiple generations, and the current 1090 model represents years of engineering improvements. The weight plates are steel with a durable molded coating that protects against chipping and reduces noise during weight changes.

Internal Mechanism

The selection mechanism uses precision-engineered plastic components and metal pins that engage the weight plates. While early SelectTech models had durability issues, the current generation has proven remarkably reliable with proper use. The mechanism is designed for tens of thousands of weight changes over the product's lifetime.

The key to longevity is proper handling—always place the dumbbells back in their trays before turning the dials, never drop them, and ensure they seat completely in the tray before changing weights. Follow these guidelines and the SelectTech system will serve you faithfully for many years.

Handle Design

The contoured handle features a textured grip surface that prevents slipping even when hands are sweaty. The handle diameter is slightly larger than traditional dumbbells, which some users prefer for comfort while others need time to adapt. The grip feels secure and well-balanced across the entire weight range.

Using SelectTech Dumbbells in Real Workouts

Superset Efficiency

Supersets—performing two exercises back-to-back without rest—become remarkably efficient with SelectTech dumbbells. Want to superset heavy chest presses at 80 pounds with light lateral raises at 15 pounds? Place the dumbbells in the tray after presses, dial down to 15, grab them, and continue. Total transition time: under 10 seconds.

This speed advantage over traditional dumbbells is significant. No walking to the rack, searching for the right weight, carrying them to your bench, then returning them and grabbing the next pair. Everything happens right at your workout station, maintaining exercise intensity and minimizing rest periods.

Drop Sets and Progressive Training

Drop sets—reducing weight and continuing a set past failure—work beautifully with the SelectTech system. Finish your working set at 70 pounds, rack the dumbbells, dial down to 50, grab them, and continue to failure again. The quick weight changes make advanced training techniques practical that would be cumbersome with traditional dumbbells.

Exercise Versatility

The SelectTech 1090 handles the full spectrum of dumbbell exercises:

• Pressing Movements: Bench press, shoulder press, incline press—the dumbbells balance well and handle heavy weights securely
• Rowing Variations: One-arm rows, bent-over rows—the handle shape and balance work perfectly
• Curl Exercises: Bicep curls, hammer curls—the contoured handle feels natural
• Isolation Work: Lateral raises, front raises, flies—quick weight adjustments make these practical
• Lower Body: Goblet squats, lunges, Romanian deadlifts—the weight range supports leg training

Length Considerations

One characteristic that requires adaptation is the dumbbell length. At approximately 17 inches, the SelectTech 1090 is significantly longer than traditional dumbbells of equivalent weight. A traditional 50-pound dumbbell might measure 12 inches, while the SelectTech 1090 at 50 pounds is 17 inches.

Exercises Affected by Length

The extra length doesn't impact most exercises, but some movements require minor technique adjustments:

Chest Press: At the bottom of the movement, the longer dumbbells might touch before your hands reach full depth. Most users adapt by slightly adjusting hand position or accepting a slightly reduced range of motion.

Shoulder Press: Works perfectly—the length doesn't create issues on pressing movements where dumbbells don't meet.

Certain Curl Variations: Concentration curls or preacher curls might feel slightly different due to length, though most users find the difference minimal after brief adaptation.

The length is a trade-off worth accepting for the space and convenience benefits. After a few workouts, the feel becomes normal and most people stop noticing the difference.

The SelectTech App and Connectivity

Bowflex offers the SelectTech App (formerly JRNY) which provides workout tracking, exercise demonstrations, and training programs. While the basic dumbbells work perfectly without any app, the digital integration adds value for people who want structured programming.

Optional Bluetooth Connectivity

You can purchase the SelectTech dumbbells with or without Bluetooth connectivity. The Bluetooth-enabled version automatically tracks your weights and reps through the app. The non-Bluetooth version requires manual tracking but costs less.

Most serious lifters track workouts anyway using apps like Strong, JEFIT, or simple notebooks. The Bluetooth feature is nice but not essential unless you specifically want automated tracking through Bowflex's ecosystem.

Assembly and Setup

The SelectTech 1090 ships fully assembled except for inserting the handle rods into the weight cradles. Setup takes perhaps 5 minutes—unpack the components, slide the handles into the weight trays, and you're ready to train. No tools required, no complex assembly, no frustration.

Storage Solutions

The dumbbells work fine stored on the floor in their included trays. However, Bowflex sells an optional stand that elevates them to a more convenient height for weight changes and reduces bending during workouts. The stand is sturdy, compact, and worthwhile if budget allows.

Some users build custom storage solutions or modify existing furniture to hold the SelectTech trays at optimal height. The trays measure approximately 17" x 8", making them easy to incorporate into various storage configurations.

Maintenance and Care

Maintaining SelectTech dumbbells is straightforward:

• Keep the mechanism clean—wipe away dust and chalk that could interfere with the dial system
• Always place dumbbells completely in trays before adjusting weight
• Never drop the dumbbells—this can damage the internal mechanism
• Periodically check that all weight plates engage and disengage smoothly
• Store in climate-controlled areas—extreme temperature swings can affect plastic components

Following these basic guidelines, the SelectTech system should provide reliable service for many years. Bowflex offers a two-year warranty covering mechanical and functionality issues, providing peace of mind about build quality.

Cost Analysis and Value

At approximately $700 for a pair, the SelectTech 1090 represents significant upfront investment. Let's compare to alternatives:

Traditional Rubber Hex Dumbbells

Quality hex dumbbells cost roughly $1.50-2.00 per pound. A complete set from 10 to 90 pounds totals approximately 1,700 pounds of dumbbells. At $1.75 per pound average, you're looking at roughly $3,000 plus several hundred dollars for a quality storage rack. Total: $3,300-3,500.

The SelectTech 1090 provides the same weight range for $700. You save $2,600+ while gaining massive space savings and faster weight changes.

Budget Adjustable Dumbbells

Budget adjustable dumbbells using spin-lock collars cost $100-200 for a pair going up to 50-60 pounds. They save space but require 30+ seconds to change weights by manually removing and adding plates. The SelectTech's 2-second weight changes provide dramatically better workout flow.

For serious training where you're changing weights frequently, the SelectTech efficiency justifies the premium price.

Who Should Buy the SelectTech 1090?

Perfect For:

• Home Gym Builders: Anyone creating a functional strength training space with limited room
• Apartment Dwellers: People training in small spaces where traditional dumbbell racks won't fit
• Serious Lifters: Intermediate to advanced trainees who need wide weight ranges and quick changes
• Superset Enthusiasts: People whose training incorporates frequent weight changes
• Multi-User Households: Families where different people need different weight ranges
• Quality Investors: Those who prefer buying premium equipment once rather than upgrading later
• Busy Professionals: People who value time efficiency and streamlined workouts

Consider Alternatives If:

• Budget is very limited (spin-lock adjustable dumbbells work for $100-200)
• You need weights beyond 90 pounds regularly
• You want 2.5-pound increment adjustments
• You perform exercises where dumbbell length significantly matters
• You prefer the exact feel of traditional dumbbells over innovation

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Replaces 17 pairs of dumbbells in compact 2-foot footprint
• Weight changes in 2 seconds with simple dial mechanism
• 10-90 pound range covers all dumbbell training needs
• Significantly cheaper than buying complete traditional dumbbell set
• Durable construction designed for years of use
• Contoured handle with secure grip
• Enables efficient supersets and drop sets
• Optional Bluetooth tracking available
• 2-year warranty coverage
• No assembly required beyond inserting handles
• Works for all standard dumbbell exercises
• Optional stand available for convenient storage
• Quiet operation—plates don't rattle

Cons:

• Premium price at $700 (though cheaper than alternatives)
• 17-inch length longer than traditional dumbbells
• 5-pound increments only—no 2.5-pound jumps
• Requires careful handling—cannot be dropped
• Maximum 90 pounds per dumbbell
• Slightly bulkier than equivalent traditional dumbbells
• Mechanism requires clean environment to function optimally
• Stand sold separately adds to cost

Comparison to Other Adjustable Dumbbells

Bowflex SelectTech 1090 vs. PowerBlock Elite

PowerBlock offers competing adjustable dumbbells with similar weight ranges. PowerBlocks use a pin-based selector system and have a more compact shape. However, many users find the SelectTech dial mechanism more intuitive and faster. Weight capacity and price are similar. Choice often comes down to personal preference for dial vs. pin selection.

Bowflex SelectTech 1090 vs. SelectTech 552

Bowflex also makes the SelectTech 552 model adjusting from 5 to 52.5 pounds. The 552 costs less ($300-400) but tops out at 52.5 pounds. For serious strength training, most intermediate lifters will eventually max out the 552 on major exercises. The 1090's 90-pound capacity provides room for years of progression.

Bowflex SelectTech 1090 vs. Spin-Lock Dumbbells

Traditional spin-lock adjustable dumbbells cost $100-200 and work fine for basic training. However, changing weights requires unscrewing collars, adding or removing plates, and resecuring collars—a process taking 30-60 seconds. The SelectTech's 2-second changes transform workout efficiency, easily justifying the price premium for frequent users.

Long-Term Ownership Experience

I've used SelectTech 1090 dumbbells for six years across countless workouts. The mechanism functions as smoothly today as when new. I've experienced zero mechanical issues, zero plates failing to engage or disengage, zero problems with the dial system.

The space savings remain one of the best aspects of ownership. My home gym is a converted spare bedroom, and the SelectTech system allows serious strength training in a space where a traditional dumbbell rack would be impossible. The quick weight changes have also improved my training—I do more supersets and drop sets because they're practical rather than logistically challenging.

The Feel Adaptation

The first few workouts felt slightly different due to the length and balance compared to traditional dumbbells I'd used in commercial gyms. Within two weeks, the SelectTech feel became normal. Now I actually prefer them because the convenience and efficiency outweigh any minor feel differences.

Final Verdict

The Bowflex SelectTech 1090 represents one of the smartest investments available for home gym strength training. The engineering achievement of condensing 17 dumbbell pairs into one compact, quick-changing system solves the fundamental space and cost problems that limit home dumbbell training.

Yes, they're expensive at $700. But compared to $3,500 for a complete traditional set, they deliver exceptional value. The space savings alone make them essential for anyone training in typical home environments. The 2-second weight changes improve workout efficiency and enable training techniques that would be impractical otherwise.

For American home gym builders who are serious about strength training but realistic about space constraints, the SelectTech 1090 is simply the best solution available. They're expensive enough to ensure quality but reasonably priced considering what they replace. This is premium equipment that performs premium results.

If you want serious dumbbell training capability without dedicating a room to weight storage, the Bowflex SelectTech 1090 delivers. This is innovation done right—solving real problems with elegant engineering that works reliably for years.