Valor Fitness BE-11KBCB Smith Machine Multi-Function Power Rack Review: Can It Handle 500 Lbs?
A solid starter smith machine for home gyms with counterbalanced bar and linear bearings, but limited 500 lb capacity and missing safety features restrict serious lifting.
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Key Specifications
Best For
How this product scores for different use cases
The 500 lb weight capacity, smith bar with linear bearings, and counterbalanced design make this solid for dedicated home training. The 85x80 inch footprint and plate storage pegs support comprehensive home gym setups.
The counterbalanced bar reduces starting weight for progressive training. Vertical bar path and linear bearings provide smooth, guided movements ideal for learning proper form and rehabilitation.
The 500 lb capacity falls short for serious powerlifters who typically need 1000+ lbs. Missing safety arms and J-cups limit heavy compound lift safety during solo training sessions.
Has smith bar and free weight station but lacks cable crossover, pull-up bar, lat pulldown, and low row. Limited to basic pressing and squatting movements without comprehensive exercise variety.
The 85x80 inch footprint requires 47 square feet of floor space, which is excessive for apartments. The 266 lb weight makes relocation difficult in rental situations.
Missing commercial-grade construction, 500 lb capacity is insufficient for commercial use, and lacks critical safety features like safety arms. Not designed for high-volume daily use.
Our Verdict
The Valor Fitness BE-11KBCB offers a counterbalanced smith machine at $1,521.98 with basic home gym features. You get linear bearings for smooth bar movement and plate storage for organization. The 500 lb capacity handles moderate lifting.
This machine works best for beginners and intermediate lifters. The counterbalanced bar helps you learn proper form with lighter starting weight. The vertical bar path keeps movements stable and controlled.
Safety features fall short for solo heavy lifting. You get no safety arms or J-cups to catch failed reps. Advanced lifters need higher capacity and better safety systems.
The 85x80 inch footprint needs 47 square feet of floor space. You need a dedicated room or large garage area. Apartment users should look for more compact options.
Exercise variety stays limited to pressing and squatting movements. The free weight station adds some options. You miss out on cable exercises, pull-ups, and rows that all-in-one gyms provide.
You pay $3.04 per pound of weight capacity. This sits in the average range for home smith machines. The counterbalanced bar and linear bearings add value for the price point.
What We Like
- Counterbalanced smith bar reduces starting weight for beginners and rehab training
- Linear bearings provide smooth vertical bar movement for controlled lifts
- Built-in plate storage pegs keep weights organized near workout station
- Free weight station adds barbell training options beyond smith bar exercises
- 266 lb frame weight provides stable base for pressing and squatting movements
What Could Be Better
- 500 lb weight capacity is below 1000 lb average for smith machines
- No safety arms or J-cups for solo training protection
- Missing cable crossover system limits upper body exercise variety
- No pull-up bar or dip station for bodyweight training options
- 47 square foot footprint requires significant dedicated floor space
Full Specifications
Dimensions
| Height | 53" |
| Length | 85" |
| Width | 80" |
| Footprint | 47.2 sq ft |
| Weight | 266 lbs |
Build Quality
| Commercial Grade | No |
| Linear Bearings | Yes |
Movement System
| Smith Bar | Included |
| Bar Path | Vertical |
| Counterbalanced Bar | Yes |
Features
Included Features
Not Included
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Valor Fitness Smith Machine Multi-Function Power Rack - 500lb Squat Rack or Bench Press Station - 2" Plate Storage Pegs- Attached Sliding Knurled Barbell - Home Gym
What is the weight capacity of this smith machine?
The BE-11KBCB has a 500 lb weight capacity. This works for beginners and intermediate lifters but falls below the 1000 lb average for serious strength training.
Does this smith machine include safety arms or spotter bars?
No, this model does not include safety arms or J-cups. You need to lift within your limits or have a spotter present for heavy lifts.
How much floor space does this machine require?
The dimensions are 85 inches long by 80 inches wide. You need approximately 47 square feet of dedicated floor space for safe use and movement around the machine.
Does the smith bar have a counterbalance system?
Yes, the BE-11KBCB has a counterbalanced bar. This reduces the starting weight below a standard 45 lb barbell, making it easier for beginners to start training.
Can I do cable exercises on this smith machine?
No, this model does not include a cable crossover system. You can only do smith bar pressing, squatting, and free weight barbell exercises on the included station.
Best For
How this product scores for different use cases
The 500 lb weight capacity, smith bar with linear bearings, and counterbalanced design make this solid for dedicated home training. The 85x80 inch footprint and plate storage pegs support comprehensive home gym setups.
The counterbalanced bar reduces starting weight for progressive training. Vertical bar path and linear bearings provide smooth, guided movements ideal for learning proper form and rehabilitation.
The 500 lb capacity falls short for serious powerlifters who typically need 1000+ lbs. Missing safety arms and J-cups limit heavy compound lift safety during solo training sessions.
Has smith bar and free weight station but lacks cable crossover, pull-up bar, lat pulldown, and low row. Limited to basic pressing and squatting movements without comprehensive exercise variety.
The 85x80 inch footprint requires 47 square feet of floor space, which is excessive for apartments. The 266 lb weight makes relocation difficult in rental situations.
Missing commercial-grade construction, 500 lb capacity is insufficient for commercial use, and lacks critical safety features like safety arms. Not designed for high-volume daily use.
Scores
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