Bowflex Dumbbells, SelectTech, Handle Will Not Fit Into the Base

Do you have a set of Bowflex SelectTech 1090 dumbbells and do you have issues with the handle not fitting into the base?

Let us help you troubleshoot the issue to find out why the handle will not fit into the base.

• Remove the handle from the base and set it on the floor or another level and stable surface. Flip the handle over exposing the button of the black locking mechanism. See the example below.
  The arrow in the example above shows the button for the black locking mechanism.
• With a blunt object, carefully press the button of the black locking mechanism. Hold the button while turning the adjustment knob or selection dial to the lowest setting.
• You will want to remove each plate from the handle. Inspect each plate for damage. Closely inspect the weight plate selection tabs. Click here to read more about inspecting the weight plates.
• Put the plates back into the dumbbell base. Be sure that the plates are all facing the same direction. Plates sit in the base with the weight selection tabs facing out toward the end of the base. The plates should align properly. The plates should be able to be removed and put back in place with ease. If any plate is damaged, it needs to be replaced.
• If, after all this, the issue still exists, remove all the weight plates from the base. Test the handle again in the base with one pair of weight plates at a time. Add a pair of weight plates and test the selection knob or dial again. Repeat the steps after each added pair of weight plates.
  • If the problem occurs when a specific plate is added, replace the affected plate or plates.
  • If the problem still exists after completely reassembling everything, replace the handle.
• After all the parts are reassembled, finish by performing a lock test. Click here to read about how to perform a lock test.

This completes our troubleshooting to help you understand why a handle will not fit into the base of your Bowflex SelectTech 1090 dumbbells.

Note: As of June 2025, Bowflex has discontinued production of the SelectTech 1090, DB1090 dumbbells and the SelectTech 552 dumbbells. Parts are no longer available.