Exercise bikes have become an indispensable part of countless lives, offering a convenient and effective way to stay fit and healthy. In 2024, we present the best exercise bikes that promise to elevate your fitness journey to new heights.
| Best Overall | Bang for Your Buck | Best on a Budget | Best for Small Spaces | Best for Serious Cyclists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Peloton Bike+ | NordicTrack Commercial VU 29 | Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike | ATIVAFIT Folding Exercise Bike | Keiser M3i Indoor Cycle |
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The Peloton Bike+ offers an immersive total-body workout experience with its seamless integration of cycling, strength, yoga, and meditation classes, powered by advanced technology. | The NordicTrack Commercial VU 29 Exercise Bike combines an immersive 14-inch HD touchscreen with automatic trainer control, offering dynamic workouts led by elite personal trainers from the comfort of home. | The Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike provides versatile workout options with 13 built-in programs, 16 levels of magnetic resistance, and enhanced Bluetooth connectivity for tracking progress and monitoring fitness goals. | The ATIVAFIT Folding Exercise Bike offers a space-saving fitness solution with its compact design, 8 levels of adjustable magnetic resistance; ideal for home gyms and small living spaces. | The Keiser M3i Indoor Cycle stands out for its exceptional build quality and versatile resistance levels, providing a premium workout experience for serious cyclists. |
What Is an Exercise Bike?
An exercise bike, also known as a stationary bike, is a fitness equipment designed to simulate the experience of cycling outdoors without the need to leave your home. It consists of a comfortable saddle, pedals, and handlebars, providing a low-impact cardiovascular workout. Exercise bikes come in various types, including upright, recumbent, spin, and air bikes, catering to different fitness goals and user preferences.
Why Buy an Exercise Bike?
Exercise bikes are a versatile fitness tool with numerous advantages. First and foremost, they provide a safe and efficient way to engage in cardiovascular workouts, promoting heart health and endurance. Additionally, exercise bikes facilitate calorie burning and weight management, making them an excellent choice for those looking to improve their overall fitness.
Convenience is another key benefit of exercise bikes. They enable you to work out at your own pace and schedule, regardless of external factors like the weather. Furthermore, many modern exercise bikes come equipped with advanced technology and connectivity features, allowing you to track your progress, set fitness goals, and access pre-set workout programs. This integration enhances the overall workout experience and provides valuable data to tailor your exercise routine to your specific needs.
Lastly, exercise bikes come in various types, including upright, recumbent, spin, and air bikes, catering to different fitness goals and comfort preferences. This diversity ensures that you can select the type that best suits your fitness level and personal requirements. In summary, exercise bikes offer a convenient, efficient, and adaptable means to improve cardiovascular fitness, manage weight, and enhance your overall well-being.
Exercise Bikes: What to Look For
When selecting an exercise bike, consider the following 10 criteria, categorized into four essential areas, to ensure you make an informed choice:
Best Overall: Peloton Bike+
Image credit: Peloton
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The Peloton Bike+ stands out as the best exercise bike for several reasons. Firstly, it offers an unparalleled workout experience. Its immersive technology allows you to seamlessly shift from cycling to a variety of other workouts like strength, Pilates, yoga, and more. The 360° rotating screen enhances the viewing experience, making transitions between on-Bike and off-Bike workouts effortless.
What truly sets the Peloton Bike+ apart is its expansive library of classes across multiple disciplines, with motivating instructors to guide you. The Auto-Resistance knob automatically adjusts resistance, keeping you in sync with instructors’ cues. The on-screen metrics help you track your progress, and it’s compatible with Apple Watch or Android watch devices for convenient fitness tracking.
The Peloton Bike+ is not just a piece of exercise equipment; it’s a fitness ecosystem. The Peloton All-Access Membership, though an additional cost, grants you access to a wealth of content and classes that cater to all fitness levels and preferences. Whether you’re a beginner, an advanced athlete, or someone looking for variety in their workouts, the Peloton Bike+ delivers it all.
While it may require an initial investment, the Peloton Bike+ offers a premium, comprehensive, and customizable fitness solution that is hard to match in the exercise bike market. It’s the perfect choice for those who are serious about their fitness and appreciate a diverse range of workout options.
Read full Peloton Bike+ review
Bang for Your Buck: NordicTrack Commercial VU 29 Exercise Bike
Image credit: NordicTrack
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The NordicTrack Commercial VU 29 Exercise Bike emerges as a pinnacle of modern fitness equipment, seamlessly blending cutting-edge technology with ergonomic design to redefine home workouts. Its oversized seat, featuring cushioned comfort and adjustable settings, prioritizes user comfort during prolonged exercise sessions. Coupled with a recumbent frame that promotes low-impact cardio, this bike offers an inviting platform for individuals seeking effective yet gentle workouts, making it ideal for those with back or joint concerns.
At the heart of the NordicTrack Commercial VU 29 lies its immersive 14-inch HD touchscreen, which serves as a gateway to a world of fitness possibilities. Users can stream live and on-demand iFIT workouts directly to the bike, led by elite personal trainers who guide them through immersive workouts across the globe. With 24 digital levels of resistance and automatic trainer control, the bike dynamically adjusts to match global terrain in real-time, ensuring a challenging yet enjoyable workout experience that evolves with the user’s fitness journey.
Moreover, the NordicTrack Commercial VU 29 Exercise Bike isn’t just a fitness machine; it’s a comprehensive wellness solution. Backed by a 30-day iFIT Family Membership, users gain access to an extensive library of workouts, studio classes, and global adventures. With features like ergonomic support grips and wide pedals, the bike caters to users of all fitness levels, encouraging them to embark on a fitness journey that’s both engaging and rewarding. While the initial investment may be significant, the NordicTrack Commercial VU 29 stands as a testament to NordicTrack’s commitment to excellence, offering a holistic approach to home fitness that empowers users to achieve their wellness goals with unparalleled convenience and efficacy.
Best on a Budget: Schwinn Fitness Recumbent Bike 230
Image credit: Schwinn
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The Schwinn Fitness Recumbent Bike 230 is a standout choice for those seeking a high-quality exercise bike on a budget. It excels in providing an affordable yet effective workout experience.
First and foremost, the enhanced Bluetooth connectivity is a valuable feature for budget-conscious users. It allows you to utilize popular app-based tracking tools, helping you set and monitor your fitness goals. This means you can track your progress without the need for additional fitness devices, making it a cost-effective solution for staying on top of your workouts.
The 5.5″ LCD display on the Schwinn 230 offers access to 13 workout programs. These programs provide a variety of fitness routines and goal-tracking features that can keep you motivated and engaged in your workouts. With this versatility, you can tailor your exercise regimen to your specific fitness needs, all without the need for a costly gym membership or personal trainer.
One of the key advantages of the Schwinn 230 is its 16 levels of adjustable magnetic resistance. This feature ensures that you can fine-tune your workout intensity to match your fitness level, making it suitable for beginners and more advanced users. The ability to customize your resistance settings allows you to maximize the effectiveness of your workouts without breaking the bank.
While the Explore the World subscription is an additional cost to access global routes, the Schwinn Fitness Recumbent Bike 230 offers a compelling budget-friendly exercise solution for those who want a feature-rich yet affordable way to maintain their fitness goals. Its adjustable resistance levels, versatile workout programs, and Bluetooth connectivity make it the best budget exercise bike for cost-conscious individuals who value versatility and affordability in their fitness equipment.
Best for Small Spaces: ATIVAFIT Folding Exercise Bike
Image credit: ATIVAFIT
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The ATIVAFIT Folding Exercise Bike represents a revolution in compact fitness solutions, ingeniously crafted to deliver a powerful workout experience without compromising on space or functionality. Its innovative folding design allows users to effortlessly store the bike in even the tightest of living spaces, making it a perfect fit for apartments, small homes, or offices. Equipped with smooth-rolling wheels, relocating the bike becomes a breeze, ensuring users can seamlessly integrate their fitness routine into their daily lives.
Designed with versatility in mind, the ATIVAFIT Exercise Bike features 8 adjustable magnetic resistance levels, providing users with the flexibility to tailor their workouts to their desired intensity. Whether aiming for a leisurely ride or a more challenging cardio session, users can easily adjust the resistance to suit their fitness goals. The magnetic resistance mechanism not only offers quiet operation but also ensures a smoother and more consistent pedaling experience, enhancing overall comfort during workouts.
Despite its compact footprint, the ATIVAFIT Folding Exercise Bike doesn’t compromise on durability or stability. Crafted from robust alloy steel, its sturdy frame can support users weighing up to 265 pounds, providing a secure platform for intense cardio workouts. The bike’s spacious and relaxed seat, coupled with adjustable height options, ensures users of varying sizes can find their optimal riding position for maximum comfort and efficiency. With its user-friendly LCD display providing essential workout metrics and its sleek, modern design, the ATIVAFIT Exercise Bike is not just a piece of fitness equipment but a versatile and convenient tool for individuals looking to prioritize their health and wellness.
Best for Serious Cyclists: Keiser M3i Indoor Cycle
Image credit: Keiser
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The Keiser M3i Indoor Cycle is the ultimate choice for serious cyclists looking for a top-tier exercise bike that can meet their rigorous training needs. It stands out as the best exercise bike for this audience for several compelling reasons.
First and foremost, the build quality of the M3i is exceptional. It’s the only indoor bike built in the U.S., which speaks to its commitment to high-quality manufacturing. Serious cyclists demand durability, and the M3i delivers. It’s virtually maintenance-free and built to withstand the intensity of regular, high-performance workouts. This level of durability ensures that the bike can handle the demands of even the most dedicated cyclists.
The 24 levels of magnetic resistance offered by the M3i are a key feature for serious cyclists. This broad range of resistance options allows for highly challenging workouts, making it suitable for both strength training and cardiovascular conditioning. The bike’s resistance system mimics the experience of outdoor cycling, which is essential for cyclists who want to replicate real-world riding conditions.
Additionally, the V-shape frame is an innovative design that sets the M3i apart. It enables seat and handlebar adjustments, making the bike suitable for riders of all sizes. Serious cyclists, regardless of their height, can achieve a customized fit, ensuring comfort and proper posture during intense training sessions.
While the Keiser M3i is an investment due to its premium price point, it’s a worthwhile one for serious cyclists who demand the best in terms of build quality, resistance variety, and customizability. Its durability and versatility make it the top choice for those who are committed to their cycling training and require a reliable and challenging indoor exercise bike.
Are exercise bikes suitable for beginners?
Exercise bikes are incredibly beginner-friendly due to their low-impact nature, making them perfect for those new to fitness or recovering from injuries. With adjustable resistance levels, beginners can start at a comfortable intensity and gradually increase as they build endurance and strength. The stationary nature of the bike allows users to control the pace and intensity of their workout, providing a safe and accessible option for beginners.
How often should I use an exercise bike to see results?
The frequency of exercise bike use depends on individual fitness goals and current activity levels. For general health and fitness maintenance, experts recommend aiming for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity cycling most days of the week. However, those seeking weight loss or significant fitness improvements may need to increase both the duration and intensity of their workouts. Consistency is key, so finding a schedule that aligns with your goals and lifestyle is essential for seeing results.
Can I use an exercise bike if I have joint pain or injuries?
Yes, exercise bikes are often recommended for individuals with joint pain or injuries because of their low-impact nature. Cycling provides a smooth, continuous motion that’s gentle on the joints, allowing users to stay active without exacerbating existing injuries. However, it’s crucial to adjust the bike’s settings to ensure proper alignment and reduce the risk of discomfort. Consulting with a healthcare professional before starting a new exercise routine is recommended, especially for those with specific concerns or conditions.
How do I maintain an exercise bike?
Proper maintenance is essential for keeping your exercise bike in optimal condition. After each use, wipe down the bike to remove sweat and debris, paying attention to the seat, handlebars, and console. Regularly check and tighten bolts and screws to prevent loosening, and lubricate moving parts such as the pedals, flywheel, and resistance mechanism as needed. Inspecting the bike for signs of wear and tear, and addressing any issues promptly, can prevent further damage and prolong its lifespan. Refer to the user manual for specific maintenance instructions and recommended service intervals to ensure the bike remains in top condition.
Can I lose weight using an exercise bike?
Absolutely! Exercise bikes are an effective tool for weight loss as they provide a challenging cardiovascular workout that burns calories and improves overall fitness. By cycling regularly and maintaining a healthy diet, individuals can create a calorie deficit, leading to weight loss over time. Varying workouts with different intensities and durations, and incorporating strength training exercises, can help maximize results. Sustainable weight loss requires patience and consistency, so staying committed to a regular exercise routine and healthy lifestyle habits is key to achieving long-term success.
Best Exercise Bikes of 2023
NordicTrack Commercial S22i Studio Cycle
Image credit: NordicTrack
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The NordicTrack Commercial S22i Studio Cycle is an exceptional exercise bike that provides incredible value for your investment. It excels in several key areas, making it the best “bang for your buck” option.
First and foremost, the 30-day iFIT family membership included with the bike adds substantial value. This membership allows you to create up to 5 user profiles, giving your entire household access to the extensive iFIT library of live and on-demand workouts. You can explore global workouts and studio classes, all of which are led by elite trainers. This variety ensures that you can tailor your workouts to your preferences and fitness goals.
The S22i also boasts an upgraded 22-inch rotating HD touchscreen display with improved graphics performance and faster WIFI connectivity. This luxury display offers a premium workout experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in live and on-demand workouts from the comfort of your home. The screen’s 360-degree rotation provides flexibility and convenience during workouts, ensuring you can follow along from the best angle.
What truly sets the NordicTrack S22i apart is its automatic trainer control feature. This hands-free experience allows the bike to automatically adjust your resistance and incline levels as guided by the iFIT Trainers. The result is a seamless and immersive exercise experience that ensures you get the most out of each workout.
While the upfront cost and the ongoing iFIT membership fee may be a consideration, the NordicTrack Commercial S22i Studio Cycle delivers a premium, versatile, and engaging workout experience that is hard to beat in its price range. It’s a fantastic investment for those who are serious about their fitness and want a comprehensive and interactive exercise bike.
Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Exercise Bike
Image credit: Exerpeutic
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The Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Exercise Bike is the best choice for individuals seeking a compact and space-saving exercise solution. It excels in providing an effective workout experience while being designed with small spaces in mind.
The bike’s standout feature is its foldability. When fully assembled, it measures 19″ D x 31″ W x 46″ H, but it can be conveniently folded to half its size, reducing the footprint significantly. This makes it perfect for small apartments, dorm rooms, or any space where storage is a concern. The inclusion of transportation wheels further enhances its mobility, allowing you to easily relocate the bike within your living space.
The Exerpeutic bike is also designed to accommodate users of varying heights, from 5’3″ to 6’1″. The large adjustable seat cushion ensures that users can sit upright with proper posture and alignment during their workouts. This ergonomic design is vital for a successful and comfortable exercise session, especially for those with limited space.
While it offers 8 levels of magnetic resistance, which may be considered limited for advanced athletes, the Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Exercise Bike provides a sufficient range for most users, including beginners and those seeking regular cardiovascular workouts. It’s a budget-friendly and space-saving exercise bike that doesn’t compromise on quality and comfort, making it the best choice for small spaces without sacrificing the effectiveness of your workouts.
