I was looking for a multi-incline utility bench for training with free weights. I picked the Valor DD11 for its solid construction and how the seat angles upward to match the incline. While you don''t have the liberty of independently adjusting seat angle, the degree of angulation is suited to seat-back position--that''s one less step during a rapid circuit workout. There is very little gap between the seat and back support when the bench is flat and NO gap whatsoever when flexed upright (+)The pin lock for the multi-position brace, once assembled/screwed into place, does not separate from the bench (+). It''s a spring loaded pin that is withdrawn when you want to move the back rest. There is also sufficient friction between the sliding support tubes that the bench won''t slam down when you pull the pin. Moving the backrest requires a nudge to get it moving.
The seat cushions are very firm and I am hoping they will hold up for a long time. The only preliminary concern I have is whether the composite fiberboard backing the cushions will hold up over the long run. The seat is held in place by two bolts, the back, by three bolts; all thread into meatl receivers embedded in the fiberboard. There may be potential for uneven weight distribution to stress the fiberboard from left to right and work the threaded metal receiver out of the board. I am a small guy and I don''t lift super heavy weights so I feel very well supported with minimal flex in the bench right now. It''s a narrow bench which forces you to pay attention to balance when lying down; if you are broad shouldered you may find this a bit narrow--good if you want the freedom of movement to hyper-extend your shoulders with flys/presses; not-so-good if you want your shoulders supported.
The bench comes nearly fully-assembled. The moving armature is all assembled, all that remains for you to do is attach the cross-bar at the head of the bench, the bench cushions, and the locking bolt mechanism. The tools supplied with the bench were not really adequate for assembly; these consist of a pair of wrenches sized to the hex bolts for the bench cushions and foot-piece. One bolt under the seat was impossible reach with the supplied tools but workable with a pair of pliers. They are flimsy stamped metal and will slip off the bolts easily. Use your own wrench or spanner and save yourself a bruised fingernail. (editorial: if you''re getting one of these mofos you should have a wrench around the house, yes?)
I noticed a little bit of rust on the support arm where it attached to the seat back. I think if I keep the part well-oiled that shouldn''t be a problem here in sunny, dry SoCal.
The bench came with a small nail-polish sized bottle of touch up paint. Cute. Maybe I will give myself a gunmetal pedicure.
Plastic caps on the feet are a nice touch, molding quality is excellent (flat, even contact surfaces, snug fit to the metal legs, and a pretty high density material)
Minimal branding on this bench, just a Valor sticker by the footpiece.
One star off just for the minor cosmetic blemishes, goofy tools, rough spots on the metal welds and frame joins. Otherwise it works. I''m happy.
Outlet Trail got it to me in four days thru FedEx. It would have been three days but I had to request a hold at a local pick up station because I came home late from work on the expected delivery day. Outlet Trail were also careful enough to send me an e-mail notice when FedEx alerted them to the hold request. Someone''s paying attention over there. Strong work.
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