Last updated on February 10th, 2021
On owning an exercise bike, you can work-out to the fullest without crossing the threshold of your house which can provide a potent boost to your wellness goals. However, it might be a hard task to find the right fit especially when you are on a stringent budget.
Stationary bike can be the perfect choice for people who cannot ride a bicycle outdoors round the year.
By opting for this choice, you can get your heart pumping although you might not be able to ride amongst the finest offerings of mother nature.
On owning an exercise bike, you can work-out to the fullest without crossing the threshold of your house which can provide a potent boost to your wellness goals. However, it might be a hard task to find the right fit especially when you are on a stringent budget.
Today, we have come up with ten such bikes that can serve your need without burning a hole in your wallet and will have a look at the pre-requisites of buying an exercise bike.
10 Best Exercise Bikes Under $200
| Image | Name | Price |
|---|---|---|
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Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Bike | Check Price |
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Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike | Check Price |
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XTERRA Fitness FB150 Folding Exercise Bike | Check Price |
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Akonza Stationary Exercise Bike | Check Price |
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Marcy Foldable Exercise Bike | Check Price |
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Sunny Health and Fitness Indoor Cycling Bike | Check Price |
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Exerpeutic 900XL Recumbent Bike | Check Price |
 |
Marcy Upright Exercise Bike | Check Price |
 |
DeskCycle Desk Exercise Bike Pedal Exerciser | Check Price |
 |
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B0418 Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike | Check Price |
1. Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Bike with Pulse
Buy on Amazon
The Folding Magnetic Bike with an x-frame design is capable of supporting up to 300 pounds of body weight which comes as a surprise given its entry-level price range.
Its belt-driven design diminishes the quantum of maintenance requirement while the foldable characteristics aid in storing away the machine easily almost anywhere making it a perfect choice for apartment dwellers running short in floor area.
The bike is coupled with sensors in the grips which will retain your cycling position while tracking your heart rate and ensuring that you are in the requisite heart zone. This option can be of great help as you can gain a clear understanding of the level of intensity that is being put into a particular exercise.
Key performance metrics such as distance traveled, calories burned, speed and length of the workout. You can also add more resistance to the workout coupled with eight different resistance settings.
Assembling the bike is extremely easy as you will have to attach the stabilizer levelers, pedals, seat and handlebars using the three wrenches and following the user-friendly manual which surely won’t take more than an hour.
Pros
- Very easy to get on and off.
- The large seat cushion can accommodate people of various shapes and sizes.
- Large LCD display indicating calories burned, heart rate monitor and much more.
- 8 level magnetic tension control system allowing users to adjust their desired tension level for an effective workout session.
- Consistent pedaling motion ensured by 3 pieces ‘high torque’ cranking system.
- V-belt drive and precision balanced flywheel pave the way for quiet operation.
- Highly portable with transportation wheels and compact design.
Cons
- Not designed for intense workouts.
- Resistance pads might deteriorate with time.
2. Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike with Resistance ME-709
Buy on Amazon
This budget bike coupled with variable resistance levels is suitable for both first-timers and experts. It’s easy to access seat can be adjusted in sync with the individual preference of the rider to make his workout more comfortable.
Thus, this bike can be used by people having different heights and weights. Coupled with eight levels of magnetic resistance, the Marcy Recumbent Cycle controls the difficulty level using the tension knobs which simulate riding in various terrains for customizing the workout in sync with different fitness levels.
The reclining nature of the cycle has a powder-coated finish and 14-gauge steel tubing is particularly preferred by people whose weight loss and fitness efforts have been hampered by mobility issues, pain and injury.
Although the exercise cycle does not come with any preset workout program, it is well-braced to guarantee a potent workout just like its expensive peers which come loaded with accessories and programs, most of which are not even used by the purchasers.
The ultra-functional LCD screen along with its sharp display panel shows speed, distance, time as well as calories burned. The ergonomically designed saddle crafted using high-density foam which has been contoured to precision for providing extra support to arms and back while exercising.
Its adjustable foot straps help users in attaining the perfect fit for their feet while the counterbalanced pedals offer ultimate control and maximal foot support.
Pros
- Easy to set up courtesy the intuitive manual.
- Hassle-free mounting and dismounting facilities.
- Computer screen displaying distance, speed, calories burned and time.
- Super comfortable paddling seat offering supreme support.
- Counterbalanced pedals keep the foot straps in the proper position.
- Sturdy enough to withstand heavy-duty usage on a daily basis.
Cons
- People having shorter legs might feel difficulty in reaching the pedals.
3. XTERRA Fitness FB150 Folding Exercise Bike
Buy on Amazon
If you are on the lookout for an effective calorie-burning method, then it’s time to bring home the XTERRA Fitness FB150 Folding Bike.
You can now pedal away those love handles with this easy to store exercise bike.
The solid X-frame design of the FB150 comprises of a silent belt drive system and thick steel tubing which can guarantee its longevity in spite of being subjected to heavy-duty usage.
You can take your pick between the 8 different resistance levels and even keep a tab on all your workout data from the easy to use console.
The FB150 also provides one-touch feedback about time, distance, pulse, calories, speed so that you can assess your various health parameters.
The hand pulse sensors mounted on its handlebar serves as an effective way of monitoring your heart rate while undertaking rigorous workouts.
In spite of having a steel construction, the FB150 is pretty lightweight. The small wheels located at the front base bar help in relocating the same when not in use.
All of its metallic parts are coated with a chip and rust-resistant paint which helps in keeping this exercise bike looking like new even after being used for long.
Pros
- It can support users weighting up to 225 pounds coupled with its sturdy and durable frame.
- It comes with transport wheels which assists in easy storage post usage.
- Has a multi-grip handlebar featuring EKG sensors.
- Self-leveling pedals having adjustable straps.
- Ensures a smooth and quiet operation so that you don’t disturb others while burning away those extra calories.
- It can be assembled very easily and requires minimal maintenance for its smooth functioning.
- It comes with a fitness meter so that you can keep a tab on your daily improvement.
- Narrow Q-Factor does not levy any lateral stress on the ankles and knees while using this exercise bike.
Cons
- It does not have a bottle holder.
- The fitness meter does not have a backlight.
4. Akonza Stationary Exercise LED Display
Buy on Amazon
Combining the best of home-fitness convenience and club-style quality, the Akonza exercise bike coupled with an easy brake mechanism and manual resistance knob can help you set the intensity and pace for gaining the most out of workout sessions.
You can now take a break and hydrate in between those grueling exercises before pedaling on. Adjustable seat, handlebars and pedals can accommodate various types of users and motivate them to stay fit.
This sleek-looking exercise bike comes with an LED display that displays the usual stats pertaining to calories, time, speed, distance as well as pulse rate which is linked with the handle sensors.
The Akonza bike designed especially for indoor aerobic exercises can be of great help in burning calories and fat, increasing metabolism, working on various body muscles and ultimately staying fit to the core.
Its heavy and efficient flywheel helps the bike in maintaining an ultra-quiet level so that you can burn away those love-handles without disturbing your family members.
The bike comes with a metal bottle as well as a bottle holder which can quench your thirst in between workout sessions. Coupled with its robust steel frame, the Akonza bike supports up to 440 pounds of weight so that you can juggle both home and work front while taking care of your health statistics.
Although the bike does not sport a folding design, its integrated wheels located in the front help in easy storage and relocation.
Pros
- Manual tension knob for adjusting the pace and intensity of the workout.
- Easy brake mechanism to stop the workout easily.
- Sporty PU saddle having an ergonomic design.
- Smart LED display having accurate indicators.
- Heavy 33-pound flywheel ensuring smoother and quieter rides.
- Fairly low price tag offering supreme value for money.
Cons
- The seat might come off as a bit uncomfortable.
5. Marcy Foldable Exercise Bike NS-652
Buy on Amazon
This X-frame exercise bike can suit the cardio workout requirements of both new and intermediate level users. This space-saving machine which can be folded and stored away after usage comes with a versatile seat that allows quick adjustment of height for fitting the requirement of various users.
The basket cage and gripped pedals help in exercising complete control and prevent the feet from slipping off while in use.
Users can simulate exercising in various terrains such as an outdoor bike ride coupled with its manually adjustable 8-level magnetic resistance feature and keep track of their progress in the terms of distance, speed, time and calories burned using the included monitor.
You can gain well-developed toned legs and add inertia to your weight loss process aided by the bicycle pedals which target hamstrings, quads and glutes.
The bikes main frame is constructed using 14-gauge top-quality steel having a scratch-resistant and powder-coated finish to provide you with greater durability.
Comfortable seating is ensured by its high-density foam seat which can be raised or lowered for accommodating people of various heights. The ergonomically designed seat reduces lower back pressure while promoting good posture of the exerciser.
Pros
- The uncomplicated design makes it easily usable by beginners.
- Compact size comes as a blessing for people having limited floor area.
- The Marcy Foldable Exercise Bike comes with a 2-year warranty which is longer than the warranty given by other exercise equipment available in a similar price bracket.
- The simple assembly takes less than 30 minutes by following the easy instructions.
- Pre-assembled main cross-frame and flywheel casing.
- Smooth flywheel guarantees wobble-free exercise sessions.
- 14-gauge steel frame making the bike well-suited for repeated usage.
Cons
- Limited weight capacity decreases the level of versatility.
- Lack of built-in pulse sensors for tracking the heart rate of users.
6. Sunny Health and Fitness Indoor Cycling Bike
Buy on Amazon
This entry-level upright cycle comes with a decent-sized flywheel weighing 22 pounds and a heavy steel frame which aids in keeping the bike grounded even when you are pedaling with maximum thrust.
You can keep a track of your progress by using its Digital Monitor screen which showcases both time and distance to keep you focused on attaining your fitness goal. However, it does not come with any entertainment options or preset workout programs.
You can even opt to have these features repeated continuously using the convenient scan mode for keeping up with the calculations. Its heavy flywheel has been specially engineered to impart stability and strength for the creation of momentum for longer periods.
Thus, you can bid adieu to out of control and jerky movements regardless of resistance level or speed coupled with the Sunny Health and Fitness SF-B1203. It’s convenient transportation wheels’ aid in rolling it out for storage whenever necessary.
The smooth fabric brake pad system allows various tension levels which can help you in burning more calories by undertaking an intense workout and thus gifting you with a toned physique. The assembly instruction of the Sunny bike is very easy to follow and most of the parts come pre-assembled.
You just need to attach the seat support, base stabilizers and handlebar unit to get the workout started in less than 30 minutes.
Pros
- Ergonomically designed bike to usher in optimum comfort.
- Road-bike style saddle which is adjusted both horizontally and vertically.
- Easy to add or remove resistance by twisting the knob.
- LCD monitor tracks speed, time, calories burned and distance covered.
- The chain drive mechanism of flywheel guarantees a smooth and sturdy ride.
- Caged pedals provide more support and prevent feet from slipping off.
- Easy to assemble exercise bike providing quiet cycling motion.
- Sturdy frame retains its durability even during high-intensity interval workouts.
Cons
- No attachment for storing a water bottle.
7. Exerpeutic 900XL Extended Capacity Recumbent Bike
Buy on Amazon
This recumbent exercise bike has been specially engineered to provide extra comfort to people suffering from lower back and joint problems.
Its extra-wide seats having thick padding can be of great help for larger framed people who wish to exercise with comfort. The seat can be adjusted completely in every direction and the equally large back pad comes with plush padding to provide requisite support during paddling.
Coupled with 8 levels of magnetic resistance, the Exerpeutic 900XL can pave the way for a challenging workout which will suffice both experienced exercisers and beginners without creating any interrupting sound. The conveniently located knob helps in toggling between resistance levels.
The LCD screen provides a clear notion about heart rate, exercise time, distance, speed and calories burned. Given its budget tag, the inclusion of a heart rate sensor feature surely comes off as a pleasant surprise.
The V-belt drive and precision balanced flywheel of the Exerpeutic 900XL comes together to bring along fluidic pedaling motion devoid of any jerkiness.
The ‘Step Thru’ design of this bike makes getting on and off extremely easy as it supports people weighing up to 300 pounds who wish to proceed towards a healthier tomorrow. The bike weighing 63 pounds can be relocated easily coupled with its transportation wheels.
Pros
- Hand pulse sensors help in staying within the target heart rate zone.
- Recumbent characteristics minimize stress on back and joints while increasing the challenges of a cardiovascular workout.
- Extreme customization coupled with eight-levels of magnetic tension control.
- Easy-to-read LCD indicating distance, speed, time, calories burned and heart rate information.
- It can be folded up and stored when not in use.
- Quick assembly aided by easy to understand manual.
- Extended leg stabilizers protect the bike from wobbling and tipping over even when you are pedaling with maximum intensity.
Cons
- The seat adjustment procedure is cumbersome.
8. Marcy Upright Exercise Bike with Resistance ME-708
Buy on Amazon
Weighing at just 41 pounds, this lightweight exercise bike coupled with stabilizer bars and a 14-gauge steel tube frame can impart the requisite durability to help you during those grueling workout sessions. The bike might sway side to side if the floor is uneven.
This, however, can be sorted out by turning the rear stabilizer end caps or placing an exercise mat or rug underneath. The seat height can be altered for guaranteeing a better fit to people of various frames although it is best suited for short heighted people.
Adjusting the seat involves loosening the adjustment knob and pulling it for releasing the pin. The seat is thereafter slid into the desired position and the pin is re-inserted into a pre-set hole for being tightened back.
Coupled with 8 levels of magnetic resistance the exercise bike paves the way for smooth movement devoid of any jerkiness. The resistance level is perfect for both beginners and those having a moderate level of experience for getting their heart rate up.
Users can also engage in interval training coupled with this exercise bike. Its belt drive requires minimal maintenance and comes with a protective covering to safeguard the device from sweat jamming and dirt.
The straps on the pedals help in keeping your feet from slipping off. Although adjusting the plastic straps might feel tasking initially, it softens up with continued usage. The oversized seat prevents back pain even when the bike is used for extensively long periods of time.
Pros
- Premium steel construction imparting greater durability.
- State-of-art LCD screen acts as an odometer and displaying speed, time, distance and calories burned.
- Smooth magnetic resistance system designed for fitness enthusiasts of all skill levels.
- Adjustable seat for accommodating users of various body types.
- Counterbalanced pedals to provide maximal foot support and optimal control.
Cons
- No extra accessories to cater to your media devices and water bottles.
- Not designed for spinning type workouts.
9. DeskCycle Desk Exercise Bike Pedal Exerciser
Buy on Amazon
This small and low-profile foot-pedal machine has been designed specifically to fit snugly under your work desk. They are much cheaper compared to their full-sized cousins and well suited for people who don’t get time to exercise given their hectic work schedules.
A knob mounted on the unit’s front helps in adjusting the level of resistance while the LCD display is positioned on your work desk or on the bike itself. Installing the DeskCycle is extremely easy as you just need to make use of the wrench tool for attaching the pedals and legs and plugging in the small display.
However, the biggest cause of concern is the height of the desk as most of the workplace desks are about 30-inches high and the maximum pedal height of the DeskCycle is ten inches.
Thus, the taller users might end up bumping their knees against the desk. Its magnetic resistance system helps in making pedaling a smooth and silent affair coupled with its 39-pound flywheel.
Its wide base prevents the bike from rocking back and forth like its taller peers. Speed, distance, time, calories burned and scan is revealed by its egg-shaped display. Your cumulative cycling time is measured by the timer which comes to a halt whenever you cease pedaling.
Pros
- 8 calibrated resistance settings help in choosing the workout intensity with utmost precision.
- Bidirectional pedal motion allowing both legs to be moved in the same or opposite direction.
- Lowest pedal height of 10 inches makes it a top pick of taller individuals.
- More than twice the resistance range compared to other pedal exercisers.
- Magnetic resistance helping with quiet pedal motion.
- Velcro straps to prevent your feet from slipping.
Cons
- The calorie counter is not very accurate and has a tendency to overestimate.
- It becomes difficult to operate if you are seated in a swivel chair.
10. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B0418
Buy on Amazon
This miniature stationary bike can fit perfectly in our busy lifestyles coupled with some bombastic functionalities. A smooth and silent usage gets guaranteed by its magnetic pedaling systems which makes it a perfect choice for office usage.
It also comes as a significant improvement over friction tension pedals which add up resistance by making use of pads which in turn diminishes their longevity. Weighing at a little over 20 pounds, the bike can surely be branded as a highly portable model.
Coupled with its rubber feet, the SF-B0418 can retain its balance in all forms of floor surfaces including carpet. The compact design of the bike makes it easy to be stored by tugging at its built-in handle which also enhances its transportability.
The adjustable foot straps can accommodate any foot size and keep it firmly on the pedal so that you can enjoy a pulling dynamic even while pedaling.
Duality was kept in mind while designing the SF-B0418 pedals which offer a seamless transition between the lower and upper body during workouts. You can track your progress using the digital LCD screen which turns on once you start pedaling to reveal speed, distance, calories and time.
Pros
- Compact and space-saving design perfect for modern-day households.
- LCD monitor can keep track of your progress.
- Pedals can be used both by hands and feet with safety straps.
- Durable design supporting up to 220 pounds of body weight.
- Adjustable resistance levels for an effective fitness journey.
Cons
- LCD units of measurement are not very clear.
Why do You Need an Exercise Bike?
Your busy schedule is in the way of your healthy lifestyle? Or is it the laziness that doesn’t allow you to go out daily? Say no more to all the excuses because you’re living in an era where everything is becoming accessible day by day, even health.
Yes, it’s true, now you don’t have to drive all the way to the gym anymore because you can have a gym setup of your own in your house.
And if cycling appeals to you, exercise bikes are the best fit, it’s a stationary bike with a weighted wheel which have all the advantages you’re looking for, from fitness and muscle definition to stress reduction. Furthermore, it’s a low-impact exercise so you don’t have to worry about getting injured.
Also, the idea of pedaling in the comfort of your own house rather than in a crowded environment is a pleasant one, isn’t it?
Just How Advanced You Need Your Exercise Bike to Be?
Before buying an exercise bike, do a reality check on yourself. Find out what your goals are and how hard you’re going to push yourself. Most people overestimate themselves and buy expensive bikes thinking that they are going to use it often and will stick to their workout plans.
So, before you get yourself in getting exercise bikes make realistic estimations regarding your workout. Once you do that it will get easier for you to find a suitable exercise bike for you
Things To Consider Before Buying An Exercise Bike
1. Fitness Goals
Hard-core cycling enthusiasts would prefer riding a spinning bike given the actual road like feeling it tags along. They also resemble the actual road bikes in terms of appearance.
2. Resistance
The most important feature of exercise bikes is resistance. Resistance can be adjusted according to your needs. By changing your resistance, you can work against different intensities.
These are ideal for interval training which means you can alternate your intense exercises of shorter duration with longer duration of easy pedaling.
To give the rider a feeling of riding an actual road bike, exercise bikes provide resistance in different ways. There are four ways by which resistance is applied in exercise bikes. Each type of resistance has its unique way of production
Turning the adjustment wheel on a stationary bike can activate mechanical resistance while magnetic resistance gets modified directly from the bike’s console. You can benefit from a predefined workout program coupled with the dynamic change of resistance only on availing the magnetic resistance bikes.
Let’s get deeper into the four types.
i. Brake-based resistance:
Most of the exercise bikes include a flywheel that maintains it energy by storing it in the form of rotational energy. This rotatory force gains momentum which is released on pedaling.
Fly-wheel is connected with pedals through chains and belts, and normally you can’t see the fly-wheel because it is enclosed in a casing.
Fly-wheel is basically a heavy metal disc that weighs around 40 to 50 pounds, also, it is bigger in size. All these features provide the initial resistance to the rider.
ii. Direct-contact resistance:
Unlike regular bikes these kinds of bikes allow you to choose resistance according to your needs. They work on the principle of friction, in which the rotational speed is reduced by brakes. These brake pads contact the flywheel to provide resistance. You can also use friction bands instead of brake pads.
The major drawback here is that constant application of friction causes a lot of wear and tear because they face extreme mechanical abuse. Also, they make loud noises as the system is entirely mechanical. So at some point in your life, you’re going to have to replace those pads.
iii. Magnetic-resistance:
Magnetic resistance bikes have taken the place of the direct resistance bikes. All the challenges direct resistance bikes were facing magnetic resistance bikes overcome those.
Resistance is produced in magnetic resistance bikes gradually. It contains two magnets around the flywheel. The rotation of flywheel is interfered by the magnetic of the magnets, as a result, the resistance force is produced.
As the magnets are not in direct contact with a flywheel, they will work with a smooth and continuous resistance and without any danger of the wear and tear of the parts.
iv. Fly-wheel resistance:
This type of resistance is different from all the above types, as instead of a flywheel it uses a large fan for resistance. It applies resistance through the air. As you start pedaling the fan will start to rotate and with the gradual increase of speed, the air resistance will also exceed. In short, the applied resistance depends upon the amount with which you pedal
3. Comfort
If you’re planning to spend a part of your day on exercise then comfort must be on your priority list. No doubt riding outside in fresh air is great but it is not as comfortable as indoor biking. Since you’re planning to exercise on stationary bikes you should consider a more comfortable position. Also, the seats of exercise bikes are designed in such a way to provide you comfort during your workout.
If you’re not comfortable in riding an upright bike you should take a look at recumbent bikes, as right now they are excelling in the ergonomics department.
In recumbent bikes, your body is in a reclined position with the back fully supported and pedals in front of the seat. This posture will put less stress on your lower back and will maintain the spinal posture. This position also helps in reducing upper body tension and fatigue.
The pedals should be big enough to hold your feet, also there must be strapping around the pedals to protect your feet from injuries and strain and enhance smooth pedaling.
Some additional comforts like water bottle holders, built-in speaker and fans can also be found in both upright and recumbent exercise bikes. But if you’re strapped for cash don’t get lured in buying some additional accessory which is not essential.
Recumbent bikes are perfect for people suffering from back problems with their chair-like seat offerings and reclined seating positions that offer maximum comfort. Horizontal adjustment comes as a potent addition but cannot be branded as a necessity. Vertical adjustment, on the other hand, can help in modifying the height of your hips for preventing chances of a joint or back injury. Adjustable handlebars can be of great help in finding an optimal position for operating the bike.
4. Weight
Prior to purchasing the bike, it is imperative to take a look at its maximum weight capacity as the last thing you would want is to have your weight loss aid crack under those layers of fat.
The last thing you want is to get yourself injured while working out. For this, you have to look for the exercise bike that will provide stability. Greater the weight of the exercise bike the more stable it will be. Make sure that heavy bikes must have wheels, otherwise, you’ll find it difficult to move it around.
With the weight of the exercise bike, you must consider your weight also. Most exercise bikes come with a weight limit of 250 to 300 pounds. Make sure that your weight lies within the maximum supported weight, otherwise you’ll risk your safety and can also provide damage to the equipment.
5. Motivation
Some of the latest models even allow you to play games by turning it into real-life performance. An LCD screen can also serve as additional motivation by displaying distance covered, calories burned and much more.
6. Price
Exercise bikes cost ranges from a couple of hundred dollars to thousands, depending upon the number of features and performance quality. Buying something within your range that offers all the necessary features is preferable.
Overspend on exercise bikes only when you are sure that you’re going to stick with your routine, otherwise, you’re going to regret it later.
Should you get a used bike?
If you’re strapped for money, you can also buy a used bike. Look for ads and ask retailers for a used exercise bike in a stable position.
Many health clubs that have indoor cycling classes when upgrading their exercise bikes, they will sell their used bikes. Those bikes are also suitable for workout.
Can you convert an outdoor bike into an exercise bike?
If you have an outdoor bike you can easily convert it into an exercise bike by buying a cycle trainer or rollers. Cycle trainers can convert an outdoor bike by elevating and mounting it and by removing the front wheel. While in rollers you have to balance your back wheel, this makes them far more experienced than trainers.
If you are running on a tight budget, you need to primarily determine the features which are an absolute must. Exercise bikes coupled with an integrated heart rate monitor come with a hefty price tag. If you feel that this functionality is redundant, then you can proceed with the budget models.
7. Floor Area
The size of your house has a direct relationship with the size of your bike as you surely cannot enjoy optimum benefit out of an exercising bike which cannot be folded and used properly due to lack of surface area. In case if you have abundant space, you can definitely opt for the spinning or non-folding models.
Keep in mind the space of your house before buying an exercise bike. Normally, upright bikes take less space than recumbent bikes. Upright bikes are usually 1m long and 30cm wide, whereas, recumbent bikes are 130cm to 170cm long and with a larger width too.
If you have limited space and you don’t want to make your home look all stuffed up then take a look at folding bikes. They are easy to carry and can be easily moved around the house. They have all the features of exercise bikes, with the added function of the folding frame.
8. Display
Look for clear display with all the necessary features, i.e.number of burned calories, heart-rate monitor, average speed, time, distance traveled, resistance. An exercise bike without all these features will give the same workout but that experience will be less efficient.
9. Heart-rate monitor
It is of great importance in cardio workouts where your primary goal is to burn calories.
How it will help you?
Your body burns maximum calories when your heart is in a ‘fat-burning zone’, it is a lower cardio state which occurs around 60-70% of your maximum heart rate, also, workout at high heart rate will provide you cardiovascular benefits and strengthen your heart, but too high will cause damage, so a display of your heart rate will help you to maintain it in a targeted range.
There are a number of exercise bikes that will detect heart rate in a different way, some have pulse sensors in the handlebars that will display your heart rate whenever you’ll touch them, while others have chest straps.
Using chest straps is more convenient as you don’t have to touch handlebars again and again to find your heartbeat.
While the heart rate monitor is a must have feature that you can also buy later.
10. Handlebars
You should consider handlebars that are adjustable and moveable, and they must be placed at a height higher than your seat
This will help you to engage your upper body also, which is not possible without them, and they must be at the forearm’s distance away from you.
11. Exercise bikes with a video screen
We are surrounded by a whole lot of distractions that always comes in our way of working out, plus our never-ending excuses. Obviously, exercising is not at all an entertaining experience which results in the loss of interest with the passage of time.
Fortunately, exercise equipment manufacturers solved this problem by making exercise bikes with a video screen.
Video screen provides you an entertaining supplement to your boring workouts. Some of the exercise bikes consist of built-in games and can also display music, but the majority of the exercise bikes contain video screen whose main purpose is to provide necessary information regarding exercise data.
Exercise bikes with video screen not only makes your experience entertaining but educational as well. You may think that the addition of a video screen will make exercise bikes expensive, but actually the LCD or LED feature is becoming common, and there are plenty of bikes present below $500 price range.
The prices of exercise bikes with video screen vary according to the features it is displaying and the size of the screen.
12. Noise
Maybe it doesn’t bother you, but for some, it is an issue. For this, you must know that the noise depends upon the resistance which is used by bikes.
For example; fly-wheel resistance bikes cause noise due to the air which is producing resistance, also in direct-contact resistance due to the constant contact of brakes with wheel you’ll experience noise.
The harder you pedal the more noise will be produced but generally, this noise is not that unbearable. But if you’re watching television while working out this might cause a disturbance.
13. Safety
Exercise bikes might become dangerous especially when you are living with kids. Thousands of children get injured yearly due to exercise bikes, mainly by putting their fingers in fly-wheel chains and belts.
So, make sure that all the dangerous parts are covered when not in use and keep children away during a workout.
14. Warranty
Last but not least. Always, pay attention to the warranty details and check if the warranty is covering all the essential parts. The most important thing about a warranty is the duration.
A warranty of two to three years on major parts is enough. Also, it is recommended to stay away from extended warranties as they are not so beneficial, as the probability of failure and repair costs is more in them.
Conclusion
The market is filled with an array of exercise bikes each having a different set of functionality. Before taking your pick, it is essential to understand which one shall be in sync with your specific requirements.
Upright stationary bikes are similar in design to free road bicycles and consist of a traditional bicycle seat housed directly over the pedals.
Recumbent stationary bikes, on the other hand, are constructed in a laidback fashion with the chair-like seat lying at a horizontal level with the pedals.
This type of stationary bike is devoid of any handlebar. Indoor cycle bikes bring along the features of both the other two options mentioned above and is a popular choice of serious cyclists.
You can also check out other reviews RIGHT HERE
Alain is Cartbig’s managing editor, in charge of the research, production and editing of all content.
He has a BA in Journalism from Cornell University and is passionate about photography and technology.
He loves travelling but he lacks orientation so he never leaves home without his GPS. Really.
