Keppi Fitness Bench 5000
INTRODUCTION
This is a $279 Bench (with my PROMO CODE). Therefore, you may not expect much from a bench with such a price tag. However, this bench has features that only $600-700 benches have (i.e., REP Fitness BlackWing Bench). Of course the Keppi Bench 5000 is not as nice as the BlackWing. Here are the major differences:
“ZERO GAP” benches allow you to slide the seat against the back pad so that you never have a metal hinge digging into you back/butt. However, before you decide on this bench – you should fist determine if you want a “ZERO GAP” bench in the first place. BECAUSE what you have to know up front is that the “ZERO GAP” feature has a PRO and a CON. The PRO is of course the greater comfort. However, the CON is – it takes longer to so set up. At many Back pad angles you will be prevented from adjusting the back pad until you first slide the seat pad out of the way (or you cannot set the seat pad at your desired angle without first sliding it forward).
You can check out more details on the Rep Fitness BlackWIng here: https://bit.ly/DBL-REP-BLACKWING
Pros
The VALUE. The bench is not incredible compared to options that are in excess of $400. However, for $279, I think that this bench is a STEAL!
For $279 you get:
5 year Warranty
“Zero Gap”
F.I.D. bench – meaning it can be used as a FLAT bench, INCLINE bench, and a DECLINE bench.
Vertical Storage: Many other FID options out there cannot be stored vertically. SOME can – many cannot. This is huge for me. Personally, due to space constraints, I will never buy a bench that does not store vertically.
Included Leg Attachment
Firm padding
Laser cut trim on the Angle Adjustment
Stability: Due to the crazy width of the rear feet (32.5”) – it has CRAZY STABILITY.
Back Pad Hinge is made up of massive Pillow Block Bearings are massive - not just a bolt like MOST adjustable benches.
10 Adjustments angles on the back Pad
6 Adjustment angles on the front seat pad
CONS
Packaging: The packaging is one way that Keppi saves on cost to keep prices down. Asa result, some of my arts had some scuffs/scratches. This is to be expected at this price point.
Aesthetics: I find the labels on the pad, and sides to be a little too bold almost obnoxious…..my guess they do this so that you can see the model and manufacturer clearly when people share photos and videos on social media. I personally prefer more subtle branding.
Stabilizer feet – not sure I would trust a heavy load being propped up the threads on two small bolts with thin plastic ends. SO – I don’t think those will last – in fact – I would not use them at all ( and of course you do not have to – just keep them completely screwed in and you will be straight).
Pop pin knobs need a wider handle. They are uncomfortable to tighten/loosen. Not terrible, but worth mentioning. Further, you may need to add some threadlocker if the pop pin’s housing rotates when you tighten/loosen the pop pin.
Rubber feet come off a little too easily for my taste
Upright storage attachment bar needs a storage location - or it could have a magnet on it so that I have somewhere to store it while the Leg attachment is in use.
14 gauge steel: This is NOT 11-gauge steel like the Rep BlackWing. The bench is made out of14-gauge steel based on my measurement of the square tubing under the removable rubber endcaps. In this sub $300 Bench category – this gauge of steel is typical. Further, unless you plan on setting new world bench press records, 14-gauge steel should be perfectly safe for you.
Powerlifting: If your training is powerlifting focused – as opposed to bodybuilding focused – then this is probably not the bench for you because:
Tapered pad: Powerlifters tend to prefer a rectangular pad that supports their scapulas more – which can help prevent shoulder pain, and help you with your bench press.
Slippery Pad: Powerlifters tend to prefer grippy upholder to really lock yourself in…whereas the Bench 5000 upholstery is not grippy. However, since it is smooth it can be more easily cleaned – because this grippy material traps dirt, dust, chalk, dead skins cells, etc.
Pad Height: The International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) specifies that the competition bench must be between 42 and 45 cm (approximately 16.5 to 17.7 inches) high. However, I personally am not a competitive powerlifter…so it really does not matter to me. SO while some of these drawbacks might be a dealbreaker is you a re powerlifter….most of these critiques are not necessarily drawbacks if your focus is on bodybuilding.
VERDICT
So - to be honest – my expectations for this bench were pretty low. Keppi seems to be a “AMAZON” fitness brand which tailors to budget-conscious home gym customers. However, I must I must say – I personally can say that this bench is quite a value when compared to other options with similar features (e.g., Rep Fitness BlackWing Bench). I don’t think you will be disappointed with paying $279 for this bench.
NOW if you wish to buy the bench based upon this video – please consider making that purchase via the shopping link here: https://bit.ly/DBL-KEPPI-BENCH5000 — and Use PROMO CODE DBL to get that extra 6% off to get down to that $279 price point.
SNEAK PREVIEW: Keppi just sent me their NEWEST bench: the BENCH 6000. It WAS designed with powerlifting in mind…so be sure to subscribe to the YouTube channel to be alerted the moment that, THAT video drops. Bench 6000 Details here: https://amzn.to/3WGovF9 (AMAZON) or https://bit.ly/DBL-KEPPI-BENCH6000 (KEPPI WEBSITE).