Cycling for cardio, whether you’re perched on the best air bike money can buy or reclined on a recumbent bike, is an efficient way to burn calories, manage weight, and improve your cardiovascular fitness. (1) Exercise bikes are generally smaller and quieter than high-impact machines like treadmills, and they can take your endurance to new heights while also building strength in your legs, glutes, and (in the case of air bikes) even your arms.
An indoor bike can be a huge financial commitment, so it’s important to know exactly what you’re looking for before you pull the trigger. How much technology do you want in your bike? Do you have enough space? How often will you use your machine? How much money are you willing to spend? With these questions in mind, our team of certified trainers and cardio fiends pumped the pedals of more than 20 of the market’s most popular bikes to help narrow down their picks for the 10 best exercise bikes. Read on for our picks.
Best Exercise Bike with Live Classes: Peloton Bike
How We Tested the Best Exercise Bikes
We’ve got a stacked team here at BarBend, including cyclists, seasoned athletes, certified personal trainers, and fitness junkies. We’ve made it our mission to try out every piece of equipment we can get our hands on, spinning wheels on more than 20 of the best exercise bikes on the market, so that we can give you our honest feedback and opinion. We narrowed our list of the best exercise bikes down to 10 picks by scoring each machine from 1 (woof) to 5 (now we’re talking!) in the following categories:
Durability
Customizations
Adjustability and ergonomics
Footprint and portability
Delivery and setup
Workout experience
Tech capabilities
Conveniences
Dynamic programming
Customer reviews
Value
Warranty, financing, and returns
If you’re hoping to build the best home gym with the best equipment, an exercise bike will likely be an integral part of it. We made it our mission to find the best exercise bikes, taking into consideration tech features and available classes for those looking for a studio experience, as well as adjustment capabilities because the bike that doesn’t suit your body type is not the perfect bike for you.
Our team pedaled on every bike they could get their hands on (and feet clipped and strapped into), taking notes on things such as how comfortable the seat was and how easy it was to navigate the touchscreen (if there was a touchscreen). Our team also tested these bikes at every level of intensity and resistance to check for durability in their ride and note how noisy the bikes were.
Most importantly, we tried to mention who would most benefit from each bike, whether you’re wanting to ride with structured programming, looking to add some low-impact cardio to your rehabilitation, or curious about shaking it up with HIIT vs LISS cardio.
Best Exercise Bike Overall: NordicTrack Commercial S22i
NordicTrack Commercial S22i
NordicTrack Commercial S22i
The NordicTrack Commercial S22i is high-tech and high quality, featuring both advancements like a 22” touchscreen display, and solid specs like 24 levels of quiet magnetic resistance.
The S22i has a sturdy steel frame, multiple adjustability options, and seamless iFIT app integration.
The 22-inch HD touchscreen can swivel 360 degrees so you can take classes off the bike, too.
It’s one of the rare bikes with both a 20 percent incline and -10 percent decline.
The magnetic flywheel provides 24 whisper-quiet levels of magnetic resistance.
Cons
After your free 30-day trial, you’ll need to pay $39 for iFIT, which we feel brings out the bike’s full potential.
Strong Wi-Fi is necessary to reduce buffering and delay during classes.
Moving it can be tough due to its 205-pound weight, large screen, and lack of handle.
We’ll ride or die with the NordicTrack Commercial S22i, our pick for the best overall exercise bike. It excels in the fields of durability, comfort, and tech, with top-quality construction and thoughtful design that make its iFIT app integration that much more elegant.
You can access iFIT’s more than 16,000 classes via a 22-inch HD touchscreen, which swivels 360 degrees so you can take advantage of the app’s various types of strength training and flexibility classes in addition to its cardio rides. As an example of the bike and app’s symbiosis, the S22i can automatically adjust the incline and decline to the needs of each individual class or ride.
Kate riding a NordicTrack S22i
“I love all the technology loaded into this bike,” said our tester, Kate Meier, a certified personal trainer and BarBend editorial member. “The HD display makes it feel like you’re in a class or pedaling through Hawaii during a scenic ride.” Tech capabilities and dynamic programming scored a 5 out of 5.
The iFIT subscription will cost $39 a month after your first free month. That’s a sizable ongoing investment, but both our tester and Jake Herod, BarBend’s expert product tester, agree that much of the S22i’s value comes from how it interacts with iFIT.
“You don’t have to purchase iFIT, but I personally think that’s how this was meant to be used,” Herod says in the below video.
Customization scored a 5 out of 5 for its 24 levels of magnetic resistance and incline and decline options. “I haven’t seen very many bikes with incline and decline capabilities,” Meier said.
“At 205 pounds, some people will need help moving it,” she continued. “The front wheels are nice, but there’s no built-in handle. Also you have to be careful not to knock the screen during transport.” Footprint and portability scored a 3.5 out of 5.
Herod also noted that you’ll want a solid WiFi connection when utilizing the bike’s programming. “The quality of the graphics can take a while to [load and buffer] and give you that HD picture that the display is meant to deliver,” he says.
Overall, we find this to be a solidly constructed bike, with special nods towards its sturdy steel body, seat and handlebar adjustments, hybrid pedals, and 350-pound weight limit, which is around 50 pounds heavier than many of its competitors.
The Assault AirBike is a moderately priced bike with a solid build that features a powder-coated steel frame. It’s an upright indoor bike with moving arms that’s designed to burn calories and integrate seamlessly into cross-training and interval workouts.
This tough, motorless air bike is built for longevity with a powder-coated steel frame and 20 sealed cartridge bearings.
The extra-wide metal pedals are reinforced to handle intense pedaling.
The console features pre-loaded HIIT and stamina workouts.
It has integrated steel pegs so you can just focus on your upper body.
Cons
Its chain drive and fan-generated rush of air makes it louder than most standard exercise bikes.
It’s a pretty low-tech bike, with no speakers or Bluetooth connectivity.
Air bikes differ from standard exercise bikes in that they’re motorless, with resistance being generated naturally by a fan that responds to the intensity of your movement. There’s plenty of great air bikes on the market, but our favorite is the Assault AirBike Classic.
Forged from steel with a corrosion-resistant powder coat and extra-wide metal pedals, the bike is fortified by 20 sealed cartridges built into its pivots and moving parts. “With proper maintenance, there’s no reason this bike shouldn’t last decades in your home gym,” said our tester, a certified CrossFit level 1 coach, who rated it a 4 out of 5 in terms of durability.
Credit: BarBend
The AirBike is beloved by CrossFit enthusiasts for how quickly it can deliver high levels of resistance, which makes it ideal for HIIT and Tabata training. It even includes seven built-in HIIT, Tabata, and stamina workouts via the console.
Also, as Jake Herod, BarBend’s expert product tester, notes in his video review, you’ll likely “burn a lot more calories” on an air bike since it includes elliptical-style handles that offer an upper-body workout.
“I promise you won’t be bored with the Assault AirBike, but you might want to be tapping out after just a few quick minutes,” he says. “It tends to kick my butt every time I get on.”
Since it was designed for performance and not comfort, we rated both its customizations and tech capabilities a 3 out of 5. We also rated it a 3.5 out of 5 in terms of adjustability, since its seat only has six levels of height adjustment — the Rogue Echo, a top competitor, has eight. Also, as Herod notes in his review, the air generated by the fan is going to make a lot more noise than a standard exercise bike, so it’s not ideal for those trying not to disturb their housemates.
Still, our tester gave it a 4.5 out of 5 in terms of overall value. “When I get around to buying an air bike, it’ll be this one. It rides very smooth for a fan bike, and I know it’s built to stick around for years.”
The Schwinn IC4 combines upper and lower body work with its included set of dumbbells and 100 levels of cycling resistance for a complete upper and lower body burn. Dial up your favorite streaming app and hop on, this bike is compatible with JRNY, Peloton, and Zwift.
Bluetooth connectivity allows beginner and seasoned riders the ability to try out apps like Peloton, Zwift, and JRNY.
This bike allows for handlebar and seat adjustments so novices can pinpoint their most comfortable position.
This bike comes with a pair of 3-pound hand weights so you can give your upper body some love while you’re pedaling.
Cons
There’s no screen for streaming content or programming attached to this bike.
Many of the apps that this bike pairs with require a monthly subscription.
Starting something new can leave us filled with worry and excitement — your first day at a new job, buying your first-ever spin bike, or even kicking off a beginner workout plan. We like the Schwinn IC4 as a bike for beginners because it’s reliable, simple, and compatible with several different fitness apps (JRNY, Peloton, and Zwift), thus granting you a vast array of classes to see what kind of ride makes you most comfortable.
Also, the price is right at $999, making it roughly $500 to $1,000 cheaper than digitally-connected bikes like the Peloton, NordicTrack S22i, and Echelon Connect EX-8s-22. Value, conveniences, and durability all scored a 5 out of 5.
Our tester riding a Schwinn IC4 exercise bike
What keeps its price lower than its competitors is its lack of a touchscreen with streaming capabilities. In lieu of a screen, it has a full-color backlit LCD display that tracks your stats. Our expert tester Kate Meier, a certified CrossFit level 1 coach and BarBend editorial team member, rated its tech capabilities a 4 out of 5. “You’re able to make 100 micro-adjustments to your level of resistance just by pressing up or down on the LCD,” they said, “Andwith the bike’s Bluetooth connectivity, you can connect with other apps where your bike settings can be auto adjusted.”
The bike comes with a media holder, so you can stream programming from an app of your choosing, and a set of 3-pound hand weights to get in some of the best arm exercises. There are also transport wheels if you want to move the bike around. Meier noted, “At 112 pounds, it’s not super heavy if you want to move it, but surprisingly, the ride was really stable when I was using it.” Durability scored a 5 out of 5.
We find the IC4 comparable to bikes priced at nearly twice its cost. “You’re getting a seat and handlebars that you can adjust to make your ride fit you,” Meier said. “It’s a really smooth ride and it reminded me of the Peloton Bike, but at half the cost.” They scored both customizations and adjustability a 5 out of 5.
The CAROL bike's AI capabilities provide you with tailored training, designed to give you the best workout in the least amount of time. Customers have a 100-day trial period to decide whether or not this bike is right for them.
With 10-minute workouts, you can stay committed to your weight loss goals without spending hours at the gym.
AI technology chooses your resistance, so all you have to do is just show up for the work.
Its 330-pound weight capacity is between 30 and 80 pounds than many bikes we tested.
Cons
A $15 monthly membership fee is required for users to be able to adjust resistance.
Monitoring your heart rate is a key factor for its AI programming, so you’ll have to wear a chest strap.
It only has a 5-year warranty — we generally see warranties for 15 years or more at this price range.
Maybe you’ve dabbled with some of the best weight loss programs, or are just looking for the right cardio equipment to support your fat loss goals. Regardless, the CAROL bike provides. This bike takes the guesswork out of your workout, with AI programming that quickly ascertains your fitness level so that it knows how hard to push you. Across the board, this bike scored a 4.5 out of 5 in the fields of adjustability, customizations, dynamic programming, and footprint and portability.
Its AI programming is the bread and butter of this specific bike. Each time you jump on for a ride, the AI learns more about your capabilities, providing you with a workout that’s specifically built for you. “There’s programming for fat burn, so you’ll have either a 15-minute ride or a 30-minute ride,” noted our expert tester. “However, a big draw of this bike is how quick and efficient the most popular programming is. All you need is about 10 minutes to get a killer workout in.”
Our tester rides a CAROL bike
We know weight loss doesn’t happen overnight, and this bike is built to last for as long as you do. “The rear-mounted flywheel, belt drive, and frictionless magnetic brake is good for longevity, and it makes this a really quiet ride. The build feels superior to what you’d find with Peloton,” said our tester. Plus, with a 330-pound weight limit, about 50 pounds more than the average bike we’ve tested, you should feel supported no matter your size. “The powder-coated steel frame will also help fight against corrosion, but you probably won’t have to worry about that if you keep your bike inside,” they noted, giving durability a score of 4 out of 5.
The main draw for this bike is the AI programming, and you’ll have to continue paying a $15 monthly subscription to keep this active. If you decide to drop the monthly subscription, you’ll lose the ability to adjust any of the resistance levels on this bike. There’s also only a 5-year warranty, about 5 to 10 years less than other bikes at this price point. Our tester, however, did note that they didn’t foresee any issues with the bike, so they weren’t too concerned.
If you’re looking for a comfortable ride to help you lose weight, and don’t mind the necessary monthly subscription, this bike’s AI technology will help you on your weight loss journey.
Best Folding Exercise Bike: Marcy Foldable Upright Exercise Bike
Marcy Foldable Upright Exercise Bike
Marcy Foldable Upright Exercise Bike
An affordable exercise bike that can fold up for easy storage. With vertical seat adjustments for an inseam between 28" and 33", the recommended height of users ranges from 5'1 to 6'3".
When folded, this bike shrinks from 33.5 inches in length to just 18.5 inches.
There are transportation wheels attached to the bike, making moving it around simple.
At 37 pounds, feel free to fold this bike up and move it when you need the floor space.
Cons
There’s no screen or heart rate sensors to help track your workout, only an LCD monitor.
This bike doesn’t have a phone or water bottle holder.
There’s limited tech with this bike and no Bluetooth compatibility.
Folding bikes are great considerations when space is tight but you still want the benefits of cardio from home. And while these exercise bikes are often cheaper — with some models costing as little as $250 — the quality of materials pales in comparison to many non-folding bikes. The Marcy Foldable Upright Exercise Bike is the most durable folding exercise bike we’ve tried, scoring a perfect 5 out of 5 for durability, which is higher than any of the 10 other folding exercise bikes we’ve tried.
“The base is made with what seems to be a higher-grade steel when I’m comparing this to other folding exercise bikes, plus the tubing is wider and the bike is heavier,” our tester, a certified CrossFit level 1 coach, said. “The ride experience is smooth and stable, I don’t feel like I’m going to topple over.”
When folded, this bike shrinks from 33.5 inches in length to just 18.5 inches. “When folded up, it’s easy to move around and can fit into really small spaces,” said our tester, who scored its footprint and portability a 4 out of 5.
There’s an LCD screen that’ll track basic workout stats like speed, time, and calories burned, but no screen for streaming or programming, and “there’s no Bluetooth capabilities to connect to apps,” said our tester. Tech capabilities scored a 3 out of 5. You also won’t find water bottle holders, a media holder, or heart rate sensors, which is why we scored conveniences a 2 out of 5.
Best Recumbent Exercise Bike: NordicTrack Commercial R35
NordicTrack Commercial R35 Exercise Bike
NordicTrack Commercial R35 Exercise Bike
This recumbent bike features a 25-pound flywheel and 26 levels of magnetic resistance. With your purchase, you'll receive a 30-day trial to iFit, granting you access to over 16,000 workout classes ranging from cardio to strength training.
An oversized seat with lumbar support keeps users comfortable in the recumbent position.
iFIT compatibility gives users access to thousands of on-demand classes.
It has a 350-pound weight capacity, which is about 50 pounds heavier than the industry standard.
Cons
Water bottle holders are placed in an inconvenient location behind the rider.
It’s difficult to move the machine around, so we recommend this only for those who have a dedicated space for it.
iFIT requires a monthly $39 monthly subscription after the initial 30-day free trial.
The best recumbent bikes are great for those with limited mobility, those in rehabilitation, and older adults looking for a low-impact workout with some back support. If you find the upright seated posture on the average exercise bike uncomfortable or inaccessible, a recumbent bike may be just the ticket. We like the NordicTrack Commercial R35, a recumbent bike we scored a 5 out of 5 for its iFIT-compatible dynamic programming. We also gave it high marks —a 4 out of 5 — in the fields of value, warranty, durability, and adjustability.
Recumbent bikes put you in a more comfortable position for cycling, as compared to upright bikes, and it’s here the machine shines. “The seat is oversized, so users of all sizes should fit comfortably. Plus, it has lumbar support to keep your focus on your workout instead of any back discomfort,” our tester, a certified CrossFit level 1 coach, said.
Our tester on the NordicTrack Commercial R35
“With a 350-pound weight limit, it’s also inclusive for larger people,” said our tester.That’s a weight limit that’s about 50 pounds heavier than the average industry standard. Another tester noted, “I tried getting the machine to shake. I was going hard at higher speeds and everything, but this thing is sturdy.”
This bike also includes a touchscreen with access to iFIT, a fitness app loaded with thousands of on-demand classes. iFIT can also relieve you of making adjustments during workouts. “The auto adjust feature with iFIT makes it so that your resistance is adjusted automatically in your workout, so you don’t even have to think about it,” said our tester. After your free 30-day trial ends, the app will cost an additional $39 a month. For these features, tech capabilities scored a 4 out of 5 while dynamic programming scored a 5 out of 5.
We did struggle with the placement of the water bottle holders, which are inconveniently located behind the seat. Moving it around was also a bit of a challenge. “This thing is really pretty, but that sleek design makes it so that there’s nothing to hold onto if you want to tip it up and move it,” said our tester, who rated its portability a 1 out of 5. “If you don’t mind keeping this bike setup permanently in one room, I think it’ll be fine.”
Best Budget Exercise Bike: Yosuda YB001R Exercise Bike
Yosuda YB001R Exercise Bike
Yosuda YB001R Exercise Bike
Smooth and quiet cycling with a 35 lb flywheel and attached transport wheels so you can cruise where you want to. Simple LCD screen with a lip for an iPad, tablet, or phone.
At $279.99, this bike is between $1,000 and $2,000 less expensive than many bikes we’ve tested.
It has a 35-pound heavy-duty flywheel and an impressive 300-pound weight capacity.
With transportation wheels, you can easily move this bike around.
Cons
It contains many plastic parts, meaning it’s not built for long-term use or intense bouts of riding.
The LCD monitor has limited tech and feels wobbly during rides.
We like to highlight the best budget home gym equipment because getting fit shouldn’t result in a slimmer wallet. Our choice for the best budget exercise bike is the Yosuda YB001R, which is priced at under $300, around $1,000 to $2,000 cheaper than many of the bikes we’ve tried. We scored its footprint, portability, delivery, and set-up a 4 out of 5.
That’s a great deal, but a bike at that price point isn’t designed for longevity. It’s built from a combination of high-grade commercial steel (which we like) and lots of plastic pieces (which we don’t). Our tester, a certified personal trainer, noted, “This is a fantastic, approachable price, but just be aware that it’s not the most durable bike,” they said. “Don’t be surprised if you need to replace the entire thing in a few years.” As such, it’s not the kind of bike that can withstand intense rounds of pedaling on a daily basis.
It does, however, come with a full year’s warranty on replacement parts and a three-month warranty on the frame. For this, warranty scored a 3 out of 5.
Our tester riding a Yosuda YB001R exercise bike
The YB001R measures 45 inches tall, 40 inches long, and 22 inches wide, making it between 5 and 13 inches shorter and 4 and 20 inches smaller in length than many popular exercise bikes. Attached transport wheels will also make moving this 68-pound bike much easier. Footprint and portability scored a 4 out of 5.
This bike comes with a 35-pound heavy-duty flywheel, a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds, and a simple LCD display with a flimsy media shelf that can fit a phone or tablet. Our tester noted, “The LCD display keeps moving when I’m riding, and when I start pushing my speed, I feel like it’s going to fall off!”
They also made sure to note some of the problems they noticed, “A couple of pieces are already breaking off and I’m seeing this sort of thing mentioned in a ton of reviews.” For this, durability scored a 2.5 out of 5.
There are trade-offs when looking for budget options, and often those tradeoffs come in the form of a weaker frame and value. However, if you’re looking for an effective, affordable machine that you don’t plan on using every day, the Yosuda is a good place to start.
Best Exercise Bike for a Heavy Person: Echelon Connect EX-8s
Echelon Connect EX-8s Exercise Bike
Echelon Connect EX-8s Exercise Bike
The Echelon EX-8s can glam up your home gym with a dual-flywheel design outfitted with LEDs you can customize by color, tempo, and brightness. The 24-inch touchscreen is curved to offer a deeper sense of immersion during classes on the Echelon Fit app.
It has a weight capacity of 300 pounds and a flexing frame that works to reduce impact when you rise out of the seat.
32 levels of resistance will challenge users of varying strength and size.
The curved display rotates 180 degrees so you can use programming or stream content on or off the bike.
Cons
Although the bike is sturdy, we experienced some shakiness with the screen.
The large 24-inch curved screen makes moving this bike more cumbersome than the average bike.
It comes with only a one-year warranty.
Athletes come in all shapes and sizes, and finding the right equipment for your body type is one of the most difficult aspects of navigating the fitness market. For heavier riders, we like the Echelon Connect EX-8s, which has a 300-pound weight capacity and a flexing frame that can promote a lower-impact workout by absorbing some of the shock when users rise out of the seat.
This bike comes with impressive tech capabilities, a curved 24-inch screen, SPD shoe clips, toe cages, dumbbell holders, and 32 digital magnetic resistance levels. “There are stabilizers on the ground, which make the bike feel really sturdy,” said our tester, a Crossfit level 1 coach. “The seat and the handlebars can adjust so that users of various heights can use this bike comfortably.” Customizations and adjustability both scored a 4 out of 5.
Transport wheels make it easy to move around, although the large screen makes this a bit more of a task. “The Echelon Connect is only 124 pounds, so it isn’t crazy heavy. But the screen’s size might make it difficult to move from room to room,” said our tester. Footprint and portability scored a 3.75 out of 5.
Our tester riding the Echelon Connect EX-8s
It’s usually Peloton vs NordicTrack when it comes to connected fitness, but Echelon’s making a case for themselves.The swiveling touchscreen allows users to access programming via the Premier tier of the Echelon Fit app, which offers on-demand classes for cardio, strength training, yoga, and more. Tech capabilities scored a 5 out of 5, but our tester did call out the $34.99 a month subscription price. (Echelon’s FitPass tier costs just $11.99 a month and allows you access to off-equipment workouts, but won’t provide any on-bike training.)
At $2,499.99, this bike is between $500 and $1,500 more expensive than other popular exercise bikes. You can credit its tech for the hefty price tag, as well as its stylistic flourishes, such as its customizable LED flywheels that can pulse in concert with the effort you put into your rides.
There’s only a one-year warranty, which our tester thought was “such a disappointment for such an expensive bike.” However, having an active Premier membership extends your warranty by up to 4 years. You can also purchase an extended warranty for between $219 and $339, depending on the length.
Best Exercise Bike for Seniors: Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike
Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike
Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike
The Schwinn 230 has a solid build, a comfortable ride, and a host of user-friendly features. Not only that but an affordable price for the quality with 16 levels of resistance to select from while you follow along to workouts from popular streaming apps like Explore the World and Zwift.
The full-size seat and supportive backrest help provide a low-impact workout for senior riders with achy joints.
This bike’s recumbent seat places less stress on the ACL when compared to upright bikes, which is ideal for those with knee pain.
At 80 pounds, this bike is almost half the weight of other recumbent bikes we’ve tried.
We didn’t experience any shaking or wobbling during our rides.
Cons
The LCD is not backlit, which can make readability difficult.
The media shelf blocks the bike’s LCD screen.
This bike has many plastic parts, which may impact its longevity.
Cycling is one of the best low-impact exercises for people of all ages, and we’ve worked hard to find and test the best recumbent bikes for seniors. The Schwinn 230 is our choice for the best exercise bike for seniors due to its recumbent positioning, which provides ample back support for a workout that won’t stress your joints. Our tester scored their workout experience a 4.5 out of 5, and gave footprint, portability, delivery, and set-up a 4 out of 5.
The recumbent position puts less stress on your joints and ACL, and you can easily adjust the seat position to make the ride work for your body, making this bike great for older adults with bad knees. (1) Our tester noted, “The handlebars are comfortable and make getting on and off the bike super easy.”
Tech capabilities scored a 3 out of 5, with our tester noting the lack of a dedicated screen for streaming or programming. The LCD display provides basic workout stats, though we wish it was backlit to make reading it easier. “It might be especially difficult to read this screen if you have poor eyesight or you ride in the dark,” said our tester. There’s also a media shelf for your phone or tablet, but using this will block the LCD screen.
Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike
An important consideration for seniors is making sure they’ve chosen a piece of equipment that’s sturdy and stable. Our testers didn’t experience any wobble when riding. Also, senior riders will benefit from the ease of assembly. “It’s really easy to put together, but I always like to suggest having another person there to give you a hand,” said our tester. “I’d recommend this bike for seniors, or anybody just looking for a low-impact workout.”
With 13 built-in workout programs, Bluetooth connectivity, and a comfortable seat, there’s no denying the value of this bike, which is priced at $549, nearly $850 less than the NordicTrack R35 and $250 less than Horizon’s Comfort R Recumbent Bike.
At 80 pounds, it’s also lightweight compared to other recumbent bikes we’ve tried, many of which tend to weigh around 120 to 160 pounds.The trade-off for weight comes from the use of plastic parts, which may not last as long to bikes with more durable steel parts. However, many customer reviews have mentioned this bike holding up even with daily use.
Best Exercise Bike with Live Classes: Peloton Bike
Original Peloton Bike
Original Peloton Bike
The bike that started the Peloton craze offers a 22-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, a five-megapixel front-facing camera, and a built-in microphone. The Peloton membership offers access to thousands of live and on-demand cycling classes as well as progress tracking and leaderboards.
Peloton offers up to 14 daily live rides and thousands of on-demand classes with entertaining coaches and musically-themed rides.
The magnetic resistance and a 38 pound flywheel provides a smooth and quiet ride.
Community features like leaderboards and sharing high-fives can help users feel connected and stay committed.
Cons
The monthly $44 subscription fee is required to get the most out of your bike.
You’ll need to purchase shoes that can clip into the pedals, or purchase a pedal cage if you’d rather wear sneakers.
The one-year warranty is unimpressive — the average frame warranty we tend to see covers 10+ years.
The Peloton Bike took the world by storm, introducing a studio-like experience into the home fitness space with an app-connected machine that lets users stream thousands of on-demand classes focused on intervals, sprints, climbs, and endurance. Our team of testers love Peloton, with one of them having completed nearly 200 in the app. With a $44 subscription, users can also access up to 14 daily live classes, where they can compete for a place on the leaderboard, high-five other riders, and feel part of a like-minded fitness community.
Our tester, a certified personal trainer, scored the Peloton Bike’s dynamic programming, delivery, and set-up a 5 out of 5, with its footprint, portability, and tech capabilities coming in close behind with a score of 4.5 out of 5.
Our tester takes the Peloton Bike for a spin
These classes offer some of the best music playlists, and you’ll be able to navigate between classes based on your musical preferences, from pop and rock to hip-hop and showtunes. But the coaches are where Peloton truly shines. Cody Rigsby is my favorite instructor for how he can pair hilarious off-the-cuff commentary with challenging rides that’ll make you sweat. And with this subscription you also have access to strength sessions, yoga cooldowns, and one of the best running apps out there.
With a 21.5-inch screen, Bluetooth connectivity, and a camera and mic to chat with friends in class, tech capabilities scored a 4.5 out of 5. Adjustability, meanwhile, scored a 4 out of 5. “The seat can be moved forward and back, and up and down, to find the right fit. Also, the handlebars can adjust vertically,” said our tester. “There are clip-in pedals, so you’ll have to buy shoes that are compatible or buy cages separately.If you try to pedal without the right shoes, your feet are going to slip off.”
The warranty is where we take pause. It comes with a 5-year warranty for the frame and a one-year warranty for the HD screen, pedals, components, and labor. For the price of this bike, not to mention the monthly subscription, we would have liked a better warranty. “The industry standard for bike frames is closer to 15 years to life. We’ve only had this bike for a few years so who knows if it will hold up,” said our tester.
How We Chose the Best Exercise Bikes
We made multiple considerations before pulling together this best list. Here are a few of the things we weighed to ensure each pick on this list will get you the right bang for your buck.
Quality
Whenever possible, we chose bikes featuring durable construction that can withstand daily use or intense intervals. Even our budget options, which incorporate more plastic parts than their more expensive counterparts, are considered some of the toughest in their price range. Treated with care, the bikes on this list should be able to outlive the average 10- to 20-year lifespan for exercise bikes. That means cleaning it properly, wiping away stray sweat droplets, and using the front wheels with care.
Moving the NordicTrack S22i
These bikes have durable steel frames, heavy and high-quality flywheels, powerful resistance, and interchangeable options for seats and pedals that may wear quicker than the frame. Rest assured that when you pick a bike off of this list, we’ve vetted it for quality and durability that will make any price tag worth your while.
Price Range
From luxury options to some of the best budget home gym equipment, we’ve included bikes from all price points, each one worth every dollar and then some.
When it comes to budget bikes, we chose reliable pieces of equipment with smaller footprints and easier portability. What they lack are advanced tech capabilities, dynamic programming, and frames that aren’t as strong as many pricier bikes. As for the higher-end bikes, you’ll usually find access to interactive fitness apps via large touchscreens and multiple levels of resistance and incline. These bikes, however, do often require users to subscribe to an app, ranging from around $20 to $44 a month, to get the most out of their purchase.
We know everyone’s working with a different budget, so we tried to include options that cater to budgets of all kinds.
Features
We understand that not everyone wants a bike with big HD displays and loud fitness instructors screaming instructions through your speakers. But we also understand that some people need that kind of motivation to stay inspired throughout their workout.
We’ve included high-tech, mid-tech, and low-tech options within this list. Most high-tech options will have streaming platforms built into the console and larger display screens coupled with features like Bluetooth connectivity and built-in fans and speakers. The mid-tech options will have some of these features, but they may just have a tablet holder for third-party app usage and a small display screen for stat-tracking. And the low-tech options will be as basic as they come, tracking only the necessary stats you need to follow along with your workout. No matter your preference, you’ll find a fully vetted pick here.
What to Consider Before Buying an Exercise Bike
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or you’ve worked through many indoor bikes throughout your training, there are multiple considerations you’ll want to make before you start browsing the web. Here is what to look for when buying an indoor cycle.
Durability
If you work out a lot, you want a bike that can work with you. In other words, if you’re going to be using your indoor bike every day, you’ll want a durable steel frame and a powerful flywheel — the weighted metal disc that provides resistance and momentum — that will be able to withstand intense pedals and live out its full lifespan, which tends to be anywhere between 10 and 20 years with proper care. Bikes like this are typically a little pricier, but if you consider the number of years they will last you and the usage you’ll get out of them, they’re well worth the extra cash.
Riding the Yosuda YB001R Magnetic Exercise Bike.
However, if your bike is going to be supplemental to other equipment you use more frequently — likedumbbells, barbells, or a treadmill — you don’t need to consider this factor as heavily. Though you should always make sure you’re getting your money’s worth in durability, you may be able to get away with a less costly bike — maybe even a used bike — if you aren’t going to be wearing it down as much as daily users.
All in all, you get what you pay for, so if you’ve got the coin, we’d recommend getting a bike with a steel frame and a powder coat that can help prevent scratches, dents, and corrosion. You’ll also want a heavy flywheel — we recommend one over 30 pounds — that will last you those 20 years. If you’re paying a little less, you’ll want to lower its life expectancy by a few years.
Technology
One of the main differences you’ll find between bike consoles is the presence (or absence) of technology. Many of the pricier options on the market will include larger display screens, interactive class-streaming options, speakers, Bluetooth connectivity, incorporated heart rate monitoring, and other technological flourishes. The less expensive options often won’t have most of these features, which is why the price sometimes drops by over $1,000 for these bikes.
If you’re hooked on streaming platforms like iFIT or Peloton, you’ll want to opt for a bike that either has those classes built into the console or can at least accommodate a tablet to use for third-party app streaming throughout your workout. If you couldn’t care less about listening to a fitness instructor yell directions at you as you ride, you don’t need to dish out the extra cash for that added technology and can land on a much cheaper option and ride coach-free.
Different Types
Recumbent bikes vs upright bikes vs air bikes — they all have different benefits, and choosing the right one is important to ensure you get what you’re looking for out of your exercise bike. Upright bikes are great for those who are looking for a classic approach and are generally what people think of when picturing an indoor bike. Air bikes work using air resistance, as the name suggests, and allow you to incorporate your arms with handles that pump the fan of the bike in conjunction with pedaling. Recumbent bikes typically allow for a less intense workout and can ease the stress on your back with a reclined seat.
Depending on what kind of workout you’re looking for and the kind of support you need in a bike, you’ll want to choose the type that best suits your personal workout style, in addition to considering the durability and incorporated technology.
Benefits of Exercise Bikes
Of course exercise bikes can provide cardiovascular and aerobic improvements, but they have some other unique benefits over other cardio machines. (2) In addition to it being a seated workout, riding an exercise bike puts less pressure on the joints than other forms of cardio. Let’s dig in more to these benefits below.
Low-Impact Exercise
Unlike even the best treadmills or other types of cardio that have you pounding the pavement, exercise bikes support your weight and use a flywheel or some other magnetic system to provide varying levels of resistance. This is ideal for older athletes and those recovering from injury as the ability to get your heart rate up isn’t limited by your mobility. The low-impact nature of exercise bikes can decrease the stress on your joints and allow you to progress more quickly since it tends to require less recovery time. (3)(4)
This can be particularly beneficial for larger or heavier athletes, whose joints will have to endure more stress during forms of cardio that incorporate bodyweight resistance instead of mechanical resistance. (5)
Additionally, seated exercise is beneficial for those who suffer from low back pain. Recumbent bikes, for example, provide the kind of back support that standing machines, like an elliptical or treadmill, do not.
Health Benefits
Spinning is winning, and the health benefits of using an exercise bike abound. Outside of just feeling good, there are clear connections between cycling and aerobic capacity, lowered blood pressure, and weight management. (6) Additionally, regular exercise has been shown to aid in the prevention of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, depression, cancer, and hypertension. (7) That’s a nice list of reasons to hop on for a ride.
Safer Cycling
No type of exercise is 100 percent safe, but in terms of risk, indoor cycling can be safer than road cycling. Generally speaking, there are fewer cars and other hazards in a home gym or exercise room. Since exercise bikes don’t move, there is also less risk of crashing or falling over, leaving you free to continue to make gains, rather than spending your time healing up from mishaps.
Type of Bike
There are three types of bikes you’ll want to consider: upright, air, and recumbent. Each one is aligned with different goals, so knowing the different types is a must when considering an exercise bike.
Upright
An upright bike is likely what you first think of when you picture an indoor bike. It’s your classic exercise bike that’s meant to feel and look closest to a road bike — there’s a saddle and a pair of handlebars, and you ride by either sitting upright in the saddle or pedaling from a standing position.
Air
An air bike is similar to an upright bike in that you sit in an upright position while you ride, but instead of handlebars, this bike has two large moving arms that you use in addition to the regular pedals. Both the moving arms and the pedals power a large fan wheel on this bike, giving users a full-body burn.
Recumbent
A recumbent bike provides a much less strenuous workout. It has a full seat that supports your back and is much more comfortable than an upright bike. While you still work your legs and glutes like you would on an upright or air bike, a recumbent bike is much easier on the joints.
Final Word
Some of the best cardio machines for weight loss can be found on this list. Whether you need a bike to supplement your strength training or to become your primary exercise modality, buying one is a big decision. It helps to consider the technology you want, price range, and specialized features. Whichever direction you choose, you’ll want to make sure you’re milking every penny out of your purchase.
Before you start scrolling the web and scouring the fitness equipment market, lay out a list of must-haves for yourself. Keep that list with you throughout your search and weigh it against every option to make sure you bring home the perfect bike for your workouts
FAQs
What’s the best exercise bike overall?
With so many options available in a saturated market, it can be difficult to select one exercise bike as the best one. That said, we’re particularly partial to the NordicTrack S22i thanks to its sturdy steel frame, 22-inch swiveling touchscreen, and compatibility with iFIT programming.
What type of exercise bike is best?
The best exercise bike is totally dependent on what you’re capable of and what you’re wanting to do. If you need some back support and would prefer to be in a reclined position, a recumbent bike is the best choice. If you’re looking for an exercise bike with interactive features, you’ll want to look at bikes with app compatibility such as iFIT and Peloton.
Is 30 minutes a day on an exercise bike enough?
Different goals require different levels of dedication. If you’re training for a century ride — that’s 100 miles — you’ll need to be spending hours upon hours on your bike. But, if you’re looking to kickstart a healthy habit, burn calories, and increase your cardiovascular fitness, 30 minutes a day is an excellent place to start. (2)
References
Reiser, R. F., 2nd, Broker, J. P., & Peterson, M. L. (2004). Knee loads in the standard and recumbent cycling positions. Biomedical sciences instrumentation, 40, 36–42.
Blumenthal, J. A., Emery, C. F., Madden, D. J., George, L. K., Coleman, R. E., Riddle, M. W., … & Williams, R. S. (1989). Cardiovascular and behavioral effects of aerobic exercise training in healthy older men and women. Journal of gerontology, 44(5), M147-M157.
McLeod, W. D., & Blackburn, T. A. (1980). Biomechanics of knee rehabilitation with cycling. The American journal of sports medicine, 8(3), 175–180. https://doi.org/10.1177/036354658000800306
Dong, X., Li, C., Liu, J., Huang, P., Jiang, G., Zhang, M., Zhang, W., & Zhang, X. (2021). The effect of running on knee joint cartilage: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Physical therapy in sport : official journal of the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Sports Medicine, 47, 147–155. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ptsp.2020.11.030
Newman, K., Gibson, K., Zeller, H., Carter, S., & Joyce, B. (2009). Recumbent Exercise Bicycle for Low-Impact Rehabilitation of Obese Individuals. Journal of Medical Devices, 3(2).
Chavarrias, M., Carlos-Vivas, J., Collado-Mateo, D., & Pérez-Gómez, J. (2019). Health Benefits of Indoor Cycling: A Systematic Review. Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania), 55(8), 452. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina55080452
Warburton, D. E., Nicol, C. W., & Bredin, S. S. (2006). Health benefits of physical activity: the evidence. CMAJ : Canadian Medical Association journal = journal de l’Association medicale canadienne, 174(6), 801–809. https://doi.org/10.1503/cmaj.051351
About Lauren Keary
Lauren Keary is a running and boxing enthusiast, contributing to BuzzFeed, Women’s Running, Fitt, Outside, TripSavvy, the Evening Standard, and Modern Luxury on topics related to fitness, lifestyle and travel.
