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Exercise bikes are a key part of most public gyms and have become increasingly popular tools for home gyms. They’re generally smaller and relatively 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 even your arms (if you do your handlebar push-ups right, of course).
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? Do you need a quiet piece of equipment? How much money are you willing to spend? With these questions in mind, we’ve narrowed the options down to eight of the best exercise bikes on the market to make your decision just a little bit easier.
Best Exercise Bikes
Best Exercise Bike Overall
To nab the top spot, an exercise bike has to be versatile and able to accommodate both streaming and low-tech riding options. Our top pick excels in those areas and features a great price point with quiet operation.
Sole SB900
The SB900 may not include a huge fancy screen, but it does have a lot of other features that more than make up for that. Instead of delivering online workout programs to a big (and expensive) screen, the SB900’s integrated tablet holder allows you to follow along with whatever streaming service you like. If you don’t have one, you can use one of over 3,000 classes using the 90-day free trial ($19.99 per month after) of Sole’s streaming workout service, Studio™ — a workout streaming service.
Sole SB900 Exercise Bike
The Sole SB900 is a durable and high quality addition to any home gym, featuring stat tracking, an adjustable seat and handlebars, quiet magnetic resistance and front wheels for easy portability. Its display is simple and you won’t find any added technological distractions within its console.
Avid cyclists will like that the pedals can accommodate both clip-in cycling shoes or regular trainers, so you don’t have to buy special footwear, but you have the option to. The integrated three-by-four-inch console display, while somewhat basic, is compatible with a wireless heart rate chest strap and shows key information about your workout, like RPMs, time, distance, and speed. The sturdy steel frame and silent magnetic resistance on the 48-pound flywheel make this a great choice for home use to work up a sweat no matter when you find the time to pedal. You can pick the SB900 up for around $899, which is a fair price considering the included features.
Specs
Dimensions: 21 inches wide by 40 inches long by 42 inches tall
Resistance Type: Eddy Current Magnetic Resistance
Resistance Levels: 100
Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Bike Weight: 160 pounds
Pros
You can ride this bike early in the morning or late at night without waking up the whole house.
No need to pay more money for a bike with advanced technology that you might not need or want.
This bike is durable and more cost-effective than high-end models while still sporting many of the same features.
Cons
This piece of equipment doesn’t come with a heart rate monitor or hand-grip pulse sensors.
Customers who prefer to have the latest technology installed in their bike’s console might want to check out other options on this list.
If you’re on a particularly tight budget, there are cheaper options out there despite the reasonable price of the SB900.
Though you won’t find the most advanced tech in this pick, it’s a great price for a versatile bike that will allow for any type of workout — coached or not coached. You can also ride quietly for the entirety of your spin so you can work out in peace no matter when you find the time to pedal.
Read our full review of the Sole SB900.
Best Exercise Bike for the Money
Sometimes less is more. That rings true for this exercise bike that provides a nice combination of affordability and features that make it a great value.
Sole SB700 Exercise Bike
The beauty of the SB700 is its simplicity. It has all the features you need to work up a good sweat without a ton of add-ons to work up the price. For a basic workout, you can track your stats on the screen without being distracted by a large display. Feel like streaming a class? Simply pop your tablet in the included holder and you’re ready to go.
Sole SB700 Exercise Bike
The Sole SB700 was built for riders who like to keep their workouts simple. It sports a 48-pound flywheel with adjustable resistance, adjustable handlebars and seat, and a tablet holder that allows for third-party fitness class streaming while you ride.
The integrated turn dial allows you to crank up the difficulty, and it features micro-adjustments, so you can ensure you always have just the right amount of burn. If you’re worried about noise, the SB700 features a kevlar braking system for a smooth and quiet ride. Also, you won’t have to worry about buying cycling shoes since the toe cages work with nearly all running shoes and sneakers. You can pick this up for the modest price of about $699 — half the price of some other bikes.
Specs
Dimensions: 21 inches wide by 40 inches long by 42 inches tall
Resistance Type: Felt Pad Brake Resistance
Resistance Levels: 20
Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Bike Weight: 141 pounds
Pros
The SB700 is a versatile bike at a lower price point than many others. This bike is well-built without any extraneous features to jack up the price.
You can simply want to hop on and ride without fussing with touchscreens and other displays.
There’s no need to switch between running shoes and clip-ins since this can accommodate either.
Cons
The tech that’s built into the console isn’t the latest and greatest.
Athletes who want incorporated heart rate monitoring in their bike will want to look at other bikes on this list.
The SB700 doesn’t have power-adjustable resistance.
The SB700 has everything you need to have a great workout and enjoy some quality time pedaling. The no-frills nature of this bike helps to keep the price down, but you still have the option to stream on a tablet if you want a more tech-centered workout.
Read our full review of the Sole SB700 Exercise Bike.
Best Exercise Bike for Weight Loss
This pick provides a unique cycling workout that works both your upper and lower body for a full-body burn. There’s also a built-in calorie tracker so you can see how much you’ve burned as you go.
Assault AirBike
The Assault AirBike is unique in that instead of classic handlebars, this bike features moving arms, so you can work both your upper and lower body simultaneously. Known as the “calorie bike,” the added movement torches extra calories and is great for interval training, cross-training, and CrossFit.
This bike does utilize fan resistance, so things can get a bit noisy and windy, but the resistance limits are endless — the harder you go, the more resistance you’ll feel.
Assault AirBike
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.
Specs
Dimensions: 23.3 inches wide by 50.9 inches long by 48.4 inches tall
Resistance Type: Air via Fan Blade Wheel
Resistance Levels: Infinite
Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Bike Weight: 98.1 pounds
Pros
The Airbike can provide a full-body burn from a single piece of equipment.
There are infinite resistance levels on their bike. Simply push harder for more of a challenge.
The Assault Airbike is good for bikers who like following along with pre-programmed workouts — especially interval workouts.
Cons
This isn’t exactly a quiet piece of equipment for home use.
The Airbike isn’t compatible with clip-in shoes.
There isn’t a lot of tech here with only a basic screen and there aren’t really any options for streaming workouts.
The Assault AirBike is definitely not your average indoor bike, but with its moving arms, you can expect an above-average burn that can torch extra calories and build both your strength and endurance.
Read our full review of the Assault AirBike.
Best Exercise Bike for Apartments
Life in apartments can become cramped quickly, so it pays to find exercise equipment with a small footprint. This exercise bike is small but mighty with a modest footprint and easy-to-move weight.
Schwinn 170 Exercise Bike
The Schwinn 170 seems made for those with limited space, as its footprint is only 41 inches long, 21 inches wide, and 56 inches tall. This means it fits neatly into a two-foot by four-foot area. When you inevitably need to move it to another unit or room then you’ll be glad that it only weighs about 58 pounds, which is a fraction of the weight of some other exercise bikes.
Schwinn 170 Exercise Bike
This bike is built for those who need efficiency. It’s lightweight, has a small footprint, is affordable, and still packs the features in. The Schwinn 170 comes with 29 programs and 25 levels of resistance to accommodate all skill levels.
Its small stature doesn’t imply weakness, however. The bike’s steel frame boasts a weight limit of 300 pounds, and its dual LCD screen is loaded with 29 programs and 25 levels of computer-controlled resistance. Also, the high-inertia drive system makes for smooth and quiet workouts, so your neighbors won’t hear every time you spin up the pedals. The Schwinn 170 won’t put you back a month’s rent either, as it costs only about $549.
Specs
Dimensions: 21.4 inches wide by 41.3 inches long by 55.6 inches tall
Resistance Type: Inertia Drive Magnetic Resistance
Resistance Levels: 25
Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Bike Weight: 58.4 pounds
Pros
The smooth drive system and small footprint are optimal for apartment dwellers looking to stay quiet and save on floor space.
This bike comes with 29 pre-set programs so anyone who wants options will be happy.
You don’t have to pay a higher price for added technology. You won’t find any fancy touchscreens or ultra-wide displays here.
Cons
Customers who prefer to have a high-tech exercise bike may be disappointed with the comparatively basic tech in this one.
This doesn’t have a screen for built-in streaming.
Those who want a bike that comes with weights will want to check out other options on this list.
Affordable, lightweight, and space-saving, the Schwinn 170 Exercise Bike is a great option for those who reside in an apartment. The price and size allow you to save some space and still have some money left over to upgrade your sofa or add another plant to your ever-growing indoor window-ledge garden.
Best Exercise Bike for Beginners
If you’re just testing the waters when it comes to cycling, this pick has all the basics, a couple of upgrades, and definitely won’t break the bank.
Sole SB700 Exercise Bike
As a beginner, you likely don’t want to be dropping a ton of money on an indoor bike you may not end up liking. However, you’re still going to want a quality product that will aid in your training journey. The Sole SB700 is just that — it has stat tracking, a tablet holder, basic toe cages, and smaller dimensions that won’t consume your entire space.
Sole SB700 Exercise Bike
The Sole SB700 was built for riders who like to keep their workouts simple. It sports a 48-pound flywheel with adjustable resistance, adjustable handlebars and seat, and a tablet holder that allows for third-party fitness class streaming while you ride.
Additionally, the Kelvar braking system makes for a smooth ride, so you won’t have to worry about the wobbles, allowing you to focus on building your skill and technique. This bike goes for just under $700, which keeps your first bike purchase on the less expensive end of the market.
Specs
Dimensions: 21 inches wide by 40 inches long by 42 inches tall
Resistance Type: Felt Pad Brake Resistance
Resistance Levels: 20
Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Bike Weight: 141 pounds
Pros
The SB700 has a tablet holder for the option to stream classes from a third-party app.
You can keep things basic and nix the advanced technology many more expensive options have.
This is a quality bike at a lower price point than many others with similar features.
Cons
There isn’t a lot of tech built into this bike so if you want that you may be disappointed.
This bike isn’t compatible with clip-in shoes.
You won’t find automatic or electronic resistance adjustment here. You’ll need to manually adjust it.
The Sole SB700 is a great place to start when it comes to cycling. You can track your stats, stream classes on your tablet to learn, and know that you won’t be dishing out too much money on a brand-new form of exercise.
Read our full review of the Sole SB700.
Best Exercise Bike for Interactive Classes
If you’re a studio-goer who loves a good inspirational quote from a fitness coach, the NordicTrack Commercial S22i allows you to bring that experience into your home.
NordicTrack Commercial S22i
Though the NordicTrack Commercial S22i will cost you a pretty penny, you’ll get all of the technology you need to bring the studio cycling experience home with you. Not only does this bike have a 22” HD touchscreen display that allows you to interact with coaches and other users throughout your streamed classes, but your purchase also comes with a free month of iFit, so you won’t have to pay the membership fee for this experience for the first 30 days.
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.
On top of this technology, the NordicTrack Commercial S22i also has 22 levels of resistance, and incline and decline options that range from -10 to 20 percent, making it one of the more advanced and versatile options on the market.
Specs
Dimensions: 22 inches wide by 61 inches long by 58 inches tall
Resistance Type: Silent Magnetic Resistance (SMR™)
Resistance Levels: 24
Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
Bike Weight: 205 pounds
Pros
Bring home the studio experience instead of driving across town and potentially save money on expensive membership fees.
NordicTrack included a large display and advanced technology built into this bike.
The Commercial S22i has lots of resistance levels, as well as incline and decline options.
Cons
All of the added technology may serve as a distraction instead of being helpful for some people.
This bike is significantly more expensive than some other models on the market, though they may not have the same features.
The NordicTrack S22i is in some heavy competition when it comes to class streaming and technology (we’re looking at you, Peloton and Soul Cycle), but it holds up and even costs less than its direct competitors. That’s not to say this is a cheap option, but if you’re after a studio experience, this bike will be worth every penny.
Read our full review of the NordicTrack Commercial S22i.
Best Exercise Bike for Heavier Athletes
For a sturdy steel bike that can accommodate heavier builds, look no further than the NordicTrack Commercial S15i.
NordicTrack Commercial S15i
This 203-pound bike can hold users who weigh up to 350 pounds, which is more than the 300-pound average you’ll find across the market. It’s made of commercial-grade steel and offers a padded saddle for extra comfort for users of all sizes.
NordicTrack Commercial S15i Exercise Bike
The NordicTrack Commercial S15i is great for anyone who wants modernizations like an included fitness subscription, a large touchscreen display, and incline and decline options. Plus, the sturdy build and padded seat will hold up throughout years (possibly even decades) of usage.
In addition to its quality, durability, and stability, this bike also features a ton of technology, including a 14-inch, 360-degree rotating touchscreen display, a free month of iFit, and Bluetooth connectivity for the ultimate immersive experience both on and off the bike. It’s worth noting that you will pay for the high quality of this piece of equipment — the NordicTrack S15i goes for just under $1,600.
Specs
Dimensions: 22 inches wide by 60 inches long by 58 inches tall
Resistance Type: Silent Magnetic Resistance (SMR™)
Resistance Levels: 22
Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
Bike Weight: 203 pounds
Pros
This is a more stable build that can handle weights up to 350 pounds.
The S15i is a bike made of high-quality, commercial-grade steel that’s built to withstand lots of use.
NordicTrack included the latest in technology built into this bike.
Cons
Some people may find the large screen and high-tech distracting.
This bike is more expensive than many other options, likely due to the included tech features.
You can’t easily relocate or store this bike since it weighs 203 pounds.
Not only is the NordicTrack Commercial S15i a high-quality build that can accommodate heavier athletes, but it’s also one of the most technologically advanced options out there.
Read our full review of the NordicTrack S15i.
Best Exercise Bike with Weights
Sometimes cardio isn’t enough by itself to give you the workout you want. This exercise bike comes with a set of weights to allow you to give your upper body a great burn as well.
Schwinn IC4
Hand weights are commonly used in many cycling studios to provide a full-body workout. Exercise bikes that are sold for home use often neglect to include this piece of equipment, but the Schwinn IC4 comes with a pair of three-pound dumbbells with cradles within reach for seamless use on and off the bike. To make the most use of those dumbbells, you can stream workouts on a tablet using the built-in tablet holder. You receive one year of streaming with JRNY for free with your purchase but the IC4 is also compatible with Peloton and Zwift programming.
Schwinn IC4 Exercise Bike
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.
Aside from offering top-notch streaming and weights, this bike is excellent for cardio, with 100 levels of smooth magnetic resistance to cycle through. Dual sided-pedals are included for shoes with clips and regular running shoes to satisfy all footwear fans. Schwinn has this versatile bike priced at around $999.
Specs
Dimensions: 21.25 inches wide by 48.75 inches long by 52 inches tall
Resistance Type: Electromagnetic Resistance
Resistance Levels: 100
Weight Capacity: 330 pounds
Bike Weight: 106 pounds
Pros
The included weights are there to add upper body strength work into your cycling session, much like a spin class.
You can use Peloton, Zwift, or the free year of JRNY that comes included to follow a coached virtual class while you pedal.
Anyone who wants a variety of resistance levels will enjoy that they can select from 100 different ones here.
Cons
You’ll have to provide your own display with the built-in tablet holder here to stream workouts.
If you don’t need the hand weights there are other options available to choose from.
Those who are on a budget can find more cost-effective options on this list.
Schwinn’s IC4 is an all-around well-made machine with many features to support complete workouts. A wide range of resistance available and included dumbbells make for a full-body burn, while compatibility with multiple streaming platforms allows users to choose their favorite workouts.
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. (1) Exercise bikes offer a lower joint impact form of cardio, you can perform the exercise while seated, and they’re inherently safer than road cycling. Let’s dig more into these benefits below.
Low-Impact Exercise
Unlike 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 as resistance. This can decrease the stress your joints feel and often allow you to progress more quickly since you don’t have to wait for your joints and connective tissues to recover as much.
This can be particularly beneficial for larger or heavier athletes whose joints will have to endure more stress during forms of cardio that use body weight as the resistance instead of mechanical resistance. (2)
Seated Exercise
It might not seem like a big consideration at first, but remaining seated while performing a workout can have multiple benefits. If you suffer from vertigo or become dizzy sometimes, you should consult a physician, but being seated on an exercise bike might help to reduce head movement, which can help with vertigo. (3)
Additionally, those who suffer from low back pain may find that sitting can help them perform full workouts that they may have otherwise not been able to on a standing machine, like an elliptical or treadmill.
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 road 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 recovering from mishaps.
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
All of the bikes on this list are built to last. You won’t find one pick on here that won’t live out its average 10- to 20-year lifespan if you treat it right. Of course, that means cleaning it properly, wiping away any stray sweat droplets, and using the front wheels with care.
Image via Shutterstock / PeopleImages.com – Yuri A
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
We want everyone, on every budget, to have an option on this list. We’ve included bikes from all price points, each one worth every dollar and then some. You’ll find bikes with fewer features at a less expensive price as well as more technologically advanced bikes at a higher price, so no matter your individual price range, we have a pick that will suit you.
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 interactive touchscreens and motivational quotes to stay inspired throughout their sessions.
Image via Shutterstock / Alfredo Lopez
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.
How Much Do Exercise Bikes Cost?
Exercise bikes, like nearly all cardio machines, are a significant investment and represent a commitment to working out regularly when you purchase one. Nearly all of them come with the ability to access some sort of workout streaming service, which is an additional fee that you should consider when weighing your options.
Best Exercise Bike Overall
Sole SB900 Exercise Bike
$899.99 before optional streaming service
Best Exercise Bike for the Money
Sole SB700 Exercise Bike
$699.99 before optional streaming service
Best Exercise Bike for Weight Loss
Assault AirBike
$699
Best Exercise Bike for Apartments
Schwinn 170 Upright Bike
$549 before optional streaming service
Best Exercise Bike for Beginners
Sole SB700 Exercise Bike
$699.99 before optional streaming service
Best Exercise Bike for Interactive Classes
NordicTrack Commercial S22i
$1,899 before optional streaming service
Best Exercise Bike for Heavier Athletes
NordicTrack Commercial S15i
$1,149 before optional streaming service
Best Exercise Bike with Weights
Schwinn IC4
$999 before optional streaming service
The bikes themselves can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to thousands for commercial or studio-level bikes. The ones on this list rest somewhere between $550 and $1,900. Streaming services generally cost somewhere in the realm of around $20 to $40 per month, though most offer annual subscriptions for a discounted price.
How to Choose the Best Exercise Bike for You
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 are a few of the most important ones.
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 as your main form of exercise, you’ll want a durable steel frame and a powerful 30+ pound flywheel that will be able to withstand your daily usage and live out its full lifespan (which tends to be anywhere between 10 and 20 years). 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.
Image via Shutterstock / nazarovsergey
However, if your bike is going to be supplemental to other equipment you use more frequently — like weights 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’re spending a lot, make sure you’re getting the powdered steel frame and heavy flywheel that will last you those 20 years. If you’re paying a little less, expect to take a few years off of that 20-year lifespan.
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 modernized technology. 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.
Image via Shutterstock / GaudiLab
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
Upright, air and recumbent bikes 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 into the motion. Recumbent bikes typically allow for a less intense workout and feature a full seat in a reclined position.
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.
Types of Exercise Bikes
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 spin 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
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
How long will an indoor bike last?It depends on how often you use your bike, but the general lifespan is 10 to 20 years. If you use your bike every day as your main form of exercise, you can expect to trim a few years off of that range. And on the contrary, if your bike is only supplementing your other forms of exercise, you can expect to hit that 20-year mark.
What’s the best exercise bike on the market?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 liking the Sole SB900 right now thanks to its commercial quality, heavy-duty flywheel, and integrated tablet holder for streaming. The price is also cheaper than many other comparable options.
Are exercise bikes good for weight loss?On top of potentially improving their cardiovascular health, many people turn to exercise bikes as a way to increase the amount of calories they burn by upping their activity level. If you burn more calories than you eat, then you may lose weight. Exercise bikes aren’t the only way to achieve this, but they are one of the more compact and efficient ways.
What kind of resistance is the best?There’s no resistance that’s better than the other, but there are some that will suit your particular situation better. For example, if you live in a big home and like to workout early in the morning, you’ll want a magnetic resistance bike that will stay fairly quiet. If you aren’t as conscious of the noise, friction or air resistance will be the same quality, just a little louder.
Is it worth it to buy a more expensive indoor bike?If it’s technology you’re after, yes. The more expensive bikes are typically more expensive not for their quality, but for their advanced technology (like touchscreen displays and streaming options). If you’re a fitness class enthusiast or just want the latest tech in your console, it will be worth your while to dish out the extra cash.
However, you can find a good build with high durability even at lower price points. If you’re not interested in added technology, there are plenty of more cost-effective bikes on the market that will give you the same quality workout as those at a higher price point.
References
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.
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).
Lion, A., Vibert, D., Bosser, G., Gauchard, G. C., & Perrin, P. P. (2016). Vertigo in downhill mountain biking and road cycling. European journal of sport science, 16(1), 135-140.
Exercise bikes are a key part of most public gyms and have become increasingly popular tools for home gyms. They’re generally smaller and relatively 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 even your arms (if you do your handlebar push-ups right, of course).
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? Do you need a quiet piece of equipment? How much money are you willing to spend? With these questions in mind, we’ve narrowed the options down to eight of the best exercise bikes on the market to make your decision just a little bit easier.
Best Exercise Bikes
Best Exercise Bike Overall
To nab the top spot, an exercise bike has to be versatile and able to accommodate both streaming and low-tech riding options. Our top pick excels in those areas and features a great price point with quiet operation.
Sole SB900
The SB900 may not include a huge fancy screen, but it does have a lot of other features that more than make up for that. Instead of delivering online workout programs to a big (and expensive) screen, the SB900’s integrated tablet holder allows you to follow along with whatever streaming service you like. If you don’t have one, you can use one of over 3,000 classes using the 90-day free trial ($19.99 per month after) of Sole’s streaming workout service, Studio™ — a workout streaming service.
Sole SB900 Exercise Bike
The Sole SB900 is a durable and high quality addition to any home gym, featuring stat tracking, an adjustable seat and handlebars, quiet magnetic resistance and front wheels for easy portability. Its display is simple and you won’t find any added technological distractions within its console.
Avid cyclists will like that the pedals can accommodate both clip-in cycling shoes or regular trainers, so you don’t have to buy special footwear, but you have the option to. The integrated three-by-four-inch console display, while somewhat basic, is compatible with a wireless heart rate chest strap and shows key information about your workout, like RPMs, time, distance, and speed. The sturdy steel frame and silent magnetic resistance on the 48-pound flywheel make this a great choice for home use to work up a sweat no matter when you find the time to pedal. You can pick the SB900 up for around $899, which is a fair price considering the included features.
Specs
Read our full review of the Sole SB900.
Best Exercise Bike for the Money
Sometimes less is more. That rings true for this exercise bike that provides a nice combination of affordability and features that make it a great value.
Sole SB700 Exercise Bike
The beauty of the SB700 is its simplicity. It has all the features you need to work up a good sweat without a ton of add-ons to work up the price. For a basic workout, you can track your stats on the screen without being distracted by a large display. Feel like streaming a class? Simply pop your tablet in the included holder and you’re ready to go.
Sole SB700 Exercise Bike
The Sole SB700 was built for riders who like to keep their workouts simple. It sports a 48-pound flywheel with adjustable resistance, adjustable handlebars and seat, and a tablet holder that allows for third-party fitness class streaming while you ride.
The integrated turn dial allows you to crank up the difficulty, and it features micro-adjustments, so you can ensure you always have just the right amount of burn. If you’re worried about noise, the SB700 features a kevlar braking system for a smooth and quiet ride. Also, you won’t have to worry about buying cycling shoes since the toe cages work with nearly all running shoes and sneakers. You can pick this up for the modest price of about $699 — half the price of some other bikes.
Specs
Read our full review of the Sole SB700 Exercise Bike.
Best Exercise Bike for Weight Loss
This pick provides a unique cycling workout that works both your upper and lower body for a full-body burn. There’s also a built-in calorie tracker so you can see how much you’ve burned as you go.
Assault AirBike
The Assault AirBike is unique in that instead of classic handlebars, this bike features moving arms, so you can work both your upper and lower body simultaneously. Known as the “calorie bike,” the added movement torches extra calories and is great for interval training, cross-training, and CrossFit.
This bike does utilize fan resistance, so things can get a bit noisy and windy, but the resistance limits are endless — the harder you go, the more resistance you’ll feel.
Assault AirBike
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.
Specs
Read our full review of the Assault AirBike.
Best Exercise Bike for Apartments
Life in apartments can become cramped quickly, so it pays to find exercise equipment with a small footprint. This exercise bike is small but mighty with a modest footprint and easy-to-move weight.
Schwinn 170 Exercise Bike
The Schwinn 170 seems made for those with limited space, as its footprint is only 41 inches long, 21 inches wide, and 56 inches tall. This means it fits neatly into a two-foot by four-foot area. When you inevitably need to move it to another unit or room then you’ll be glad that it only weighs about 58 pounds, which is a fraction of the weight of some other exercise bikes.
Schwinn 170 Exercise Bike
This bike is built for those who need efficiency. It’s lightweight, has a small footprint, is affordable, and still packs the features in. The Schwinn 170 comes with 29 programs and 25 levels of resistance to accommodate all skill levels.
Its small stature doesn’t imply weakness, however. The bike’s steel frame boasts a weight limit of 300 pounds, and its dual LCD screen is loaded with 29 programs and 25 levels of computer-controlled resistance. Also, the high-inertia drive system makes for smooth and quiet workouts, so your neighbors won’t hear every time you spin up the pedals. The Schwinn 170 won’t put you back a month’s rent either, as it costs only about $549.
Specs
Best Exercise Bike for Beginners
If you’re just testing the waters when it comes to cycling, this pick has all the basics, a couple of upgrades, and definitely won’t break the bank.
Sole SB700 Exercise Bike
As a beginner, you likely don’t want to be dropping a ton of money on an indoor bike you may not end up liking. However, you’re still going to want a quality product that will aid in your training journey. The Sole SB700 is just that — it has stat tracking, a tablet holder, basic toe cages, and smaller dimensions that won’t consume your entire space.
Sole SB700 Exercise Bike
The Sole SB700 was built for riders who like to keep their workouts simple. It sports a 48-pound flywheel with adjustable resistance, adjustable handlebars and seat, and a tablet holder that allows for third-party fitness class streaming while you ride.
Additionally, the Kelvar braking system makes for a smooth ride, so you won’t have to worry about the wobbles, allowing you to focus on building your skill and technique. This bike goes for just under $700, which keeps your first bike purchase on the less expensive end of the market.
Specs
Read our full review of the Sole SB700.
Best Exercise Bike for Interactive Classes
If you’re a studio-goer who loves a good inspirational quote from a fitness coach, the NordicTrack Commercial S22i allows you to bring that experience into your home.
NordicTrack Commercial S22i
Though the NordicTrack Commercial S22i will cost you a pretty penny, you’ll get all of the technology you need to bring the studio cycling experience home with you. Not only does this bike have a 22” HD touchscreen display that allows you to interact with coaches and other users throughout your streamed classes, but your purchase also comes with a free month of iFit, so you won’t have to pay the membership fee for this experience for the first 30 days.
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.
On top of this technology, the NordicTrack Commercial S22i also has 22 levels of resistance, and incline and decline options that range from -10 to 20 percent, making it one of the more advanced and versatile options on the market.
Specs
Read our full review of the NordicTrack Commercial S22i.
Best Exercise Bike for Heavier Athletes
For a sturdy steel bike that can accommodate heavier builds, look no further than the NordicTrack Commercial S15i.
NordicTrack Commercial S15i
This 203-pound bike can hold users who weigh up to 350 pounds, which is more than the 300-pound average you’ll find across the market. It’s made of commercial-grade steel and offers a padded saddle for extra comfort for users of all sizes.
NordicTrack Commercial S15i Exercise Bike
The NordicTrack Commercial S15i is great for anyone who wants modernizations like an included fitness subscription, a large touchscreen display, and incline and decline options. Plus, the sturdy build and padded seat will hold up throughout years (possibly even decades) of usage.
In addition to its quality, durability, and stability, this bike also features a ton of technology, including a 14-inch, 360-degree rotating touchscreen display, a free month of iFit, and Bluetooth connectivity for the ultimate immersive experience both on and off the bike. It’s worth noting that you will pay for the high quality of this piece of equipment — the NordicTrack S15i goes for just under $1,600.
Specs
Read our full review of the NordicTrack S15i.
Best Exercise Bike with Weights
Sometimes cardio isn’t enough by itself to give you the workout you want. This exercise bike comes with a set of weights to allow you to give your upper body a great burn as well.
Schwinn IC4
Hand weights are commonly used in many cycling studios to provide a full-body workout. Exercise bikes that are sold for home use often neglect to include this piece of equipment, but the Schwinn IC4 comes with a pair of three-pound dumbbells with cradles within reach for seamless use on and off the bike. To make the most use of those dumbbells, you can stream workouts on a tablet using the built-in tablet holder. You receive one year of streaming with JRNY for free with your purchase but the IC4 is also compatible with Peloton and Zwift programming.
Schwinn IC4 Exercise Bike
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.
Aside from offering top-notch streaming and weights, this bike is excellent for cardio, with 100 levels of smooth magnetic resistance to cycle through. Dual sided-pedals are included for shoes with clips and regular running shoes to satisfy all footwear fans. Schwinn has this versatile bike priced at around $999.
Specs
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. (1) Exercise bikes offer a lower joint impact form of cardio, you can perform the exercise while seated, and they’re inherently safer than road cycling. Let’s dig more into these benefits below.
Low-Impact Exercise
Unlike 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 as resistance. This can decrease the stress your joints feel and often allow you to progress more quickly since you don’t have to wait for your joints and connective tissues to recover as much.
This can be particularly beneficial for larger or heavier athletes whose joints will have to endure more stress during forms of cardio that use body weight as the resistance instead of mechanical resistance. (2)
Seated Exercise
It might not seem like a big consideration at first, but remaining seated while performing a workout can have multiple benefits. If you suffer from vertigo or become dizzy sometimes, you should consult a physician, but being seated on an exercise bike might help to reduce head movement, which can help with vertigo. (3)
Additionally, those who suffer from low back pain may find that sitting can help them perform full workouts that they may have otherwise not been able to on a standing machine, like an elliptical or treadmill.
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 road 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 recovering from mishaps.
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
All of the bikes on this list are built to last. You won’t find one pick on here that won’t live out its average 10- to 20-year lifespan if you treat it right. Of course, that means cleaning it properly, wiping away any stray sweat droplets, and using the front wheels with care.
Image via Shutterstock / PeopleImages.com – Yuri A
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
We want everyone, on every budget, to have an option on this list. We’ve included bikes from all price points, each one worth every dollar and then some. You’ll find bikes with fewer features at a less expensive price as well as more technologically advanced bikes at a higher price, so no matter your individual price range, we have a pick that will suit you.
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 interactive touchscreens and motivational quotes to stay inspired throughout their sessions.
Image via Shutterstock / Alfredo Lopez
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.
How Much Do Exercise Bikes Cost?
Exercise bikes, like nearly all cardio machines, are a significant investment and represent a commitment to working out regularly when you purchase one. Nearly all of them come with the ability to access some sort of workout streaming service, which is an additional fee that you should consider when weighing your options.
Best Exercise Bike Overall
Sole SB900 Exercise Bike
$899.99 before optional streaming service
Best Exercise Bike for the Money
Sole SB700 Exercise Bike
$699.99 before optional streaming service
Best Exercise Bike for Weight Loss
Assault AirBike
$699
Best Exercise Bike for Apartments
Schwinn 170 Upright Bike
$549 before optional streaming service
Best Exercise Bike for Beginners
Sole SB700 Exercise Bike
$699.99 before optional streaming service
Best Exercise Bike for Interactive Classes
NordicTrack Commercial S22i
$1,899 before optional streaming service
Best Exercise Bike for Heavier Athletes
NordicTrack Commercial S15i
$1,149 before optional streaming service
Best Exercise Bike with Weights
Schwinn IC4
$999 before optional streaming service
The bikes themselves can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to thousands for commercial or studio-level bikes. The ones on this list rest somewhere between $550 and $1,900. Streaming services generally cost somewhere in the realm of around $20 to $40 per month, though most offer annual subscriptions for a discounted price.
How to Choose the Best Exercise Bike for You
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 are a few of the most important ones.
Durability
If you work out a lot, you want a bike that...
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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? Do you need a quiet piece of equipment? How much money are you willing to spend? With these questions in mind, we’ve narrowed the options down to eight of the best exercise bikes on the market to make your decision just a little bit easier.
Best Exercise Bikes
Best Exercise Bike Overall
To nab the top spot, an exercise bike has to be versatile and able to accommodate both streaming and low-tech riding options. Our top pick excels in those areas and features a great price point with quiet operation.
Sole SB900
The SB900 may not include a huge fancy screen, but it does have a lot of other features that more than make up for that. Instead of delivering online workout programs to a big (and expensive) screen, the SB900’s integrated tablet holder allows you to follow along with whatever streaming service you like. If you don’t have one, you can use one of over 3,000 classes using the 90-day free trial ($19.99 per month after) of Sole’s streaming workout service, Studio™ — a workout streaming service.
Sole SB900 Exercise Bike
The Sole SB900 is a durable and high quality addition to any home gym, featuring stat tracking, an adjustable seat and handlebars, quiet magnetic resistance and front wheels for easy portability. Its display is simple and you won’t find any added technological distractions within its console.
Avid cyclists will like that the pedals can accommodate both clip-in cycling shoes or regular trainers, so you don’t have to buy special footwear, but you have the option to. The integrated three-by-four-inch console display, while somewhat basic, is compatible with a wireless heart rate chest strap and shows key information about your workout, like RPMs, time, distance, and speed. The sturdy steel frame and silent magnetic resistance on the 48-pound flywheel make this a great choice for home use to work up a sweat no matter when you find the time to pedal. You can pick the SB900 up for around $899, which is a fair price considering the included features.
Specs
Dimensions: 21 inches wide by 40 inches long by 42 inches tall
Resistance Type: Eddy Current Magnetic Resistance
Resistance Levels: 100
Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Bike Weight: 160 pounds
Pros
You can ride this bike early in the morning or late at night without waking up the whole house.
No need to pay more money for a bike with advanced technology that you might not need or want.
This bike is durable and more cost-effective than high-end models while still sporting many of the same features.
Cons
This piece of equipment doesn’t come with a heart rate monitor or hand-grip pulse sensors.
Customers who prefer to have the latest technology installed in their bike’s console might want to check out other options on this list.
If you’re on a particularly tight budget, there are cheaper options out there despite the reasonable price of the SB900.
Though you won’t find the most advanced tech in this pick, it’s a great price for a versatile bike that will allow for any type of workout — coached or not coached. You can also ride quietly for the entirety of your spin so you can work out in peace no matter when you find the time to pedal.
Read our full review of the Sole SB900.
Best Exercise Bike for the Money
Sometimes less is more. That rings true for this exercise bike that provides a nice combination of affordability and features that make it a great value.
Sole SB700 Exercise Bike
The beauty of the SB700 is its simplicity. It has all the features you need to work up a good sweat without a ton of add-ons to work up the price. For a basic workout, you can track your stats on the screen without being distracted by a large display. Feel like streaming a class? Simply pop your tablet in the included holder and you’re ready to go.
Sole SB700 Exercise Bike
The Sole SB700 was built for riders who like to keep their workouts simple. It sports a 48-pound flywheel with adjustable resistance, adjustable handlebars and seat, and a tablet holder that allows for third-party fitness class streaming while you ride.
The integrated turn dial allows you to crank up the difficulty, and it features micro-adjustments, so you can ensure you always have just the right amount of burn. If you’re worried about noise, the SB700 features a kevlar braking system for a smooth and quiet ride. Also, you won’t have to worry about buying cycling shoes since the toe cages work with nearly all running shoes and sneakers. You can pick this up for the modest price of about $699 — half the price of some other bikes.
Specs
Dimensions: 21 inches wide by 40 inches long by 42 inches tall
Resistance Type: Felt Pad Brake Resistance
Resistance Levels: 20
Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Bike Weight: 141 pounds
Pros
The SB700 is a versatile bike at a lower price point than many others. This bike is well-built without any extraneous features to jack up the price.
You can simply want to hop on and ride without fussing with touchscreens and other displays.
There’s no need to switch between running shoes and clip-ins since this can accommodate either.
Cons
The tech that’s built into the console isn’t the latest and greatest.
Athletes who want incorporated heart rate monitoring in their bike will want to look at other bikes on this list.
The SB700 doesn’t have power-adjustable resistance.
The SB700 has everything you need to have a great workout and enjoy some quality time pedaling. The no-frills nature of this bike helps to keep the price down, but you still have the option to stream on a tablet if you want a more tech-centered workout.
Read our full review of the Sole SB700 Exercise Bike.
Best Exercise Bike for Weight Loss
This pick provides a unique cycling workout that works both your upper and lower body for a full-body burn. There’s also a built-in calorie tracker so you can see how much you’ve burned as you go.
Assault AirBike
The Assault AirBike is unique in that instead of classic handlebars, this bike features moving arms, so you can work both your upper and lower body simultaneously. Known as the “calorie bike,” the added movement torches extra calories and is great for interval training, cross-training, and CrossFit.
This bike does utilize fan resistance, so things can get a bit noisy and windy, but the resistance limits are endless — the harder you go, the more resistance you’ll feel.
Assault AirBike
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.
Specs
Dimensions: 23.3 inches wide by 50.9 inches long by 48.4 inches tall
Resistance Type: Air via Fan Blade Wheel
Resistance Levels: Infinite
Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Bike Weight: 98.1 pounds
Pros
The Airbike can provide a full-body burn from a single piece of equipment.
There are infinite resistance levels on their bike. Simply push harder for more of a challenge.
The Assault Airbike is good for bikers who like following along with pre-programmed workouts — especially interval workouts.
Cons
This isn’t exactly a quiet piece of equipment for home use.
The Airbike isn’t compatible with clip-in shoes.
There isn’t a lot of tech here with only a basic screen and there aren’t really any options for streaming workouts.
The Assault AirBike is definitely not your average indoor bike, but with its moving arms, you can expect an above-average burn that can torch extra calories and build both your strength and endurance.
Read our full review of the Assault AirBike.
Best Exercise Bike for Apartments
Life in apartments can become cramped quickly, so it pays to find exercise equipment with a small footprint. This exercise bike is small but mighty with a modest footprint and easy-to-move weight.
Schwinn 170 Exercise Bike
The Schwinn 170 seems made for those with limited space, as its footprint is only 41 inches long, 21 inches wide, and 56 inches tall. This means it fits neatly into a two-foot by four-foot area. When you inevitably need to move it to another unit or room then you’ll be glad that it only weighs about 58 pounds, which is a fraction of the weight of some other exercise bikes.
Schwinn 170 Exercise Bike
This bike is built for those who need efficiency. It’s lightweight, has a small footprint, is affordable, and still packs the features in. The Schwinn 170 comes with 29 programs and 25 levels of resistance to accommodate all skill levels.
Its small stature doesn’t imply weakness, however. The bike’s steel frame boasts a weight limit of 300 pounds, and its dual LCD screen is loaded with 29 programs and 25 levels of computer-controlled resistance. Also, the high-inertia drive system makes for smooth and quiet workouts, so your neighbors won’t hear every time you spin up the pedals. The Schwinn 170 won’t put you back a month’s rent either, as it costs only about $549.
Specs
Dimensions: 21.4 inches wide by 41.3 inches long by 55.6 inches tall
Resistance Type: Inertia Drive Magnetic Resistance
Resistance Levels: 25
Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Bike Weight: 58.4 pounds
Pros
The smooth drive system and small footprint are optimal for apartment dwellers looking to stay quiet and save on floor space.
This bike comes with 29 pre-set programs so anyone who wants options will be happy.
You don’t have to pay a higher price for added technology. You won’t find any fancy touchscreens or ultra-wide displays here.
Cons
Customers who prefer to have a high-tech exercise bike may be disappointed with the comparatively basic tech in this one.
This doesn’t have a screen for built-in streaming.
Those who want a bike that comes with weights will want to check out other options on this list.
Affordable, lightweight, and space-saving, the Schwinn 170 Exercise Bike is a great option for those who reside in an apartment. The price and size allow you to save some space and still have some money left over to upgrade your sofa or add another plant to your ever-growing indoor window-ledge garden.
Best Exercise Bike for Beginners
If you’re just testing the waters when it comes to cycling, this pick has all the basics, a couple of upgrades, and definitely won’t break the bank.
Sole SB700 Exercise Bike
As a beginner, you likely don’t want to be dropping a ton of money on an indoor bike you may not end up liking. However, you’re still going to want a quality product that will aid in your training journey. The Sole SB700 is just that — it has stat tracking, a tablet holder, basic toe cages, and smaller dimensions that won’t consume your entire space.
Sole SB700 Exercise Bike
The Sole SB700 was built for riders who like to keep their workouts simple. It sports a 48-pound flywheel with adjustable resistance, adjustable handlebars and seat, and a tablet holder that allows for third-party fitness class streaming while you ride.
Additionally, the Kelvar braking system makes for a smooth ride, so you won’t have to worry about the wobbles, allowing you to focus on building your skill and technique. This bike goes for just under $700, which keeps your first bike purchase on the less expensive end of the market.
Specs
Dimensions: 21 inches wide by 40 inches long by 42 inches tall
Resistance Type: Felt Pad Brake Resistance
Resistance Levels: 20
Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
Bike Weight: 141 pounds
Pros
The SB700 has a tablet holder for the option to stream classes from a third-party app.
You can keep things basic and nix the advanced technology many more expensive options have.
This is a quality bike at a lower price point than many others with similar features.
Cons
There isn’t a lot of tech built into this bike so if you want that you may be disappointed.
This bike isn’t compatible with clip-in shoes.
You won’t find automatic or electronic resistance adjustment here. You’ll need to manually adjust it.
The Sole SB700 is a great place to start when it comes to cycling. You can track your stats, stream classes on your tablet to learn, and know that you won’t be dishing out too much money on a brand-new form of exercise.
Read our full review of the Sole SB700.
Best Exercise Bike for Interactive Classes
If you’re a studio-goer who loves a good inspirational quote from a fitness coach, the NordicTrack Commercial S22i allows you to bring that experience into your home.
NordicTrack Commercial S22i
Though the NordicTrack Commercial S22i will cost you a pretty penny, you’ll get all of the technology you need to bring the studio cycling experience home with you. Not only does this bike have a 22” HD touchscreen display that allows you to interact with coaches and other users throughout your streamed classes, but your purchase also comes with a free month of iFit, so you won’t have to pay the membership fee for this experience for the first 30 days.
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.
On top of this technology, the NordicTrack Commercial S22i also has 22 levels of resistance, and incline and decline options that range from -10 to 20 percent, making it one of the more advanced and versatile options on the market.
Specs
Dimensions: 22 inches wide by 61 inches long by 58 inches tall
Resistance Type: Silent Magnetic Resistance (SMR™)
Resistance Levels: 24
Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
Bike Weight: 205 pounds
Pros
Bring home the studio experience instead of driving across town and potentially save money on expensive membership fees.
NordicTrack included a large display and advanced technology built into this bike.
The Commercial S22i has lots of resistance levels, as well as incline and decline options.
Cons
All of the added technology may serve as a distraction instead of being helpful for some people.
This bike is significantly more expensive than some other models on the market, though they may not have the same features.
The NordicTrack S22i is in some heavy competition when it comes to class streaming and technology (we’re looking at you, Peloton and Soul Cycle), but it holds up and even costs less than its direct competitors. That’s not to say this is a cheap option, but if you’re after a studio experience, this bike will be worth every penny.
Read our full review of the NordicTrack Commercial S22i.
Best Exercise Bike for Heavier Athletes
For a sturdy steel bike that can accommodate heavier builds, look no further than the NordicTrack Commercial S15i.
NordicTrack Commercial S15i
This 203-pound bike can hold users who weigh up to 350 pounds, which is more than the 300-pound average you’ll find across the market. It’s made of commercial-grade steel and offers a padded saddle for extra comfort for users of all sizes.
NordicTrack Commercial S15i Exercise Bike
The NordicTrack Commercial S15i is great for anyone who wants modernizations like an included fitness subscription, a large touchscreen display, and incline and decline options. Plus, the sturdy build and padded seat will hold up throughout years (possibly even decades) of usage.
In addition to its quality, durability, and stability, this bike also features a ton of technology, including a 14-inch, 360-degree rotating touchscreen display, a free month of iFit, and Bluetooth connectivity for the ultimate immersive experience both on and off the bike. It’s worth noting that you will pay for the high quality of this piece of equipment — the NordicTrack S15i goes for just under $1,600.
Specs
Dimensions: 22 inches wide by 60 inches long by 58 inches tall
Resistance Type: Silent Magnetic Resistance (SMR™)
Resistance Levels: 22
Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
Bike Weight: 203 pounds
Pros
This is a more stable build that can handle weights up to 350 pounds.
The S15i is a bike made of high-quality, commercial-grade steel that’s built to withstand lots of use.
NordicTrack included the latest in technology built into this bike.
Cons
Some people may find the large screen and high-tech distracting.
This bike is more expensive than many other options, likely due to the included tech features.
You can’t easily relocate or store this bike since it weighs 203 pounds.
Not only is the NordicTrack Commercial S15i a high-quality build that can accommodate heavier athletes, but it’s also one of the most technologically advanced options out there.
Read our full review of the NordicTrack S15i.
Best Exercise Bike with Weights
Sometimes cardio isn’t enough by itself to give you the workout you want. This exercise bike comes with a set of weights to allow you to give your upper body a great burn as well.
Schwinn IC4
Hand weights are commonly used in many cycling studios to provide a full-body workout. Exercise bikes that are sold for home use often neglect to include this piece of equipment, but the Schwinn IC4 comes with a pair of three-pound dumbbells with cradles within reach for seamless use on and off the bike. To make the most use of those dumbbells, you can stream workouts on a tablet using the built-in tablet holder. You receive one year of streaming with JRNY for free with your purchase but the IC4 is also compatible with Peloton and Zwift programming.
Schwinn IC4 Exercise Bike
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.
Aside from offering top-notch streaming and weights, this bike is excellent for cardio, with 100 levels of smooth magnetic resistance to cycle through. Dual sided-pedals are included for shoes with clips and regular running shoes to satisfy all footwear fans. Schwinn has this versatile bike priced at around $999.
Specs
Dimensions: 21.25 inches wide by 48.75 inches long by 52 inches tall
Resistance Type: Electromagnetic Resistance
Resistance Levels: 100
Weight Capacity: 330 pounds
Bike Weight: 106 pounds
Pros
The included weights are there to add upper body strength work into your cycling session, much like a spin class.
You can use Peloton, Zwift, or the free year of JRNY that comes included to follow a coached virtual class while you pedal.
Anyone who wants a variety of resistance levels will enjoy that they can select from 100 different ones here.
Cons
You’ll have to provide your own display with the built-in tablet holder here to stream workouts.
If you don’t need the hand weights there are other options available to choose from.
Those who are on a budget can find more cost-effective options on this list.
Schwinn’s IC4 is an all-around well-made machine with many features to support complete workouts. A wide range of resistance available and included dumbbells make for a full-body burn, while compatibility with multiple streaming platforms allows users to choose their favorite workouts.
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. (1) Exercise bikes offer a lower joint impact form of cardio, you can perform the exercise while seated, and they’re inherently safer than road cycling. Let’s dig more into these benefits below.
Low-Impact Exercise
Unlike 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 as resistance. This can decrease the stress your joints feel and often allow you to progress more quickly since you don’t have to wait for your joints and connective tissues to recover as much.
This can be particularly beneficial for larger or heavier athletes whose joints will have to endure more stress during forms of cardio that use body weight as the resistance instead of mechanical resistance. (2)
Seated Exercise
It might not seem like a big consideration at first, but remaining seated while performing a workout can have multiple benefits. If you suffer from vertigo or become dizzy sometimes, you should consult a physician, but being seated on an exercise bike might help to reduce head movement, which can help with vertigo. (3)
Additionally, those who suffer from low back pain may find that sitting can help them perform full workouts that they may have otherwise not been able to on a standing machine, like an elliptical or treadmill.
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 road 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 recovering from mishaps.
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
All of the bikes on this list are built to last. You won’t find one pick on here that won’t live out its average 10- to 20-year lifespan if you treat it right. Of course, that means cleaning it properly, wiping away any stray sweat droplets, and using the front wheels with care.
Image via Shutterstock / PeopleImages.com – Yuri A
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
We want everyone, on every budget, to have an option on this list. We’ve included bikes from all price points, each one worth every dollar and then some. You’ll find bikes with fewer features at a less expensive price as well as more technologically advanced bikes at a higher price, so no matter your individual price range, we have a pick that will suit you.
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 interactive touchscreens and motivational quotes to stay inspired throughout their sessions.
Image via Shutterstock / Alfredo Lopez
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.
How Much Do Exercise Bikes Cost?
Exercise bikes, like nearly all cardio machines, are a significant investment and represent a commitment to working out regularly when you purchase one. Nearly all of them come with the ability to access some sort of workout streaming service, which is an additional fee that you should consider when weighing your options.
Best Exercise Bike Overall
Sole SB900 Exercise Bike
$899.99 before optional streaming service
Best Exercise Bike for the Money
Sole SB700 Exercise Bike
$699.99 before optional streaming service
Best Exercise Bike for Weight Loss
Assault AirBike
$699
Best Exercise Bike for Apartments
Schwinn 170 Upright Bike
$549 before optional streaming service
Best Exercise Bike for Beginners
Sole SB700 Exercise Bike
$699.99 before optional streaming service
Best Exercise Bike for Interactive Classes
NordicTrack Commercial S22i
$1,899 before optional streaming service
Best Exercise Bike for Heavier Athletes
NordicTrack Commercial S15i
$1,149 before optional streaming service
Best Exercise Bike with Weights
Schwinn IC4
$999 before optional streaming service
The bikes themselves can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to thousands for commercial or studio-level bikes. The ones on this list rest somewhere between $550 and $1,900. Streaming services generally cost somewhere in the realm of around $20 to $40 per month, though most offer annual subscriptions for a discounted price.
How to Choose the Best Exercise Bike for You
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 are a few of the most important ones.
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 as your main form of exercise, you’ll want a durable steel frame and a powerful 30+ pound flywheel that will be able to withstand your daily usage and live out its full lifespan (which tends to be anywhere between 10 and 20 years). 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.
Image via Shutterstock / nazarovsergey
However, if your bike is going to be supplemental to other equipment you use more frequently — like weights 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’re spending a lot, make sure you’re getting the powdered steel frame and heavy flywheel that will last you those 20 years. If you’re paying a little less, expect to take a few years off of that 20-year lifespan.
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 modernized technology. 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.
Image via Shutterstock / GaudiLab
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
Upright, air and recumbent bikes 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 into the motion. Recumbent bikes typically allow for a less intense workout and feature a full seat in a reclined position.
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.
Types of Exercise Bikes
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 spin 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
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
How long will an indoor bike last?It depends on how often you use your bike, but the general lifespan is 10 to 20 years. If you use your bike every day as your main form of exercise, you can expect to trim a few years off of that range. And on the contrary, if your bike is only supplementing your other forms of exercise, you can expect to hit that 20-year mark.
What’s the best exercise bike on the market?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 liking the Sole SB900 right now thanks to its commercial quality, heavy-duty flywheel, and integrated tablet holder for streaming. The price is also cheaper than many other comparable options.
Are exercise bikes good for weight loss?On top of potentially improving their cardiovascular health, many people turn to exercise bikes as a way to increase the amount of calories they burn by upping their activity level. If you burn more calories than you eat, then you may lose weight. Exercise bikes aren’t the only way to achieve this, but they are one of the more compact and efficient ways.
What kind of resistance is the best?There’s no resistance that’s better than the other, but there are some that will suit your particular situation better. For example, if you live in a big home and like to workout early in the morning, you’ll want a magnetic resistance bike that will stay fairly quiet. If you aren’t as conscious of the noise, friction or air resistance will be the same quality, just a little louder.
Is it worth it to buy a more expensive indoor bike?If it’s technology you’re after, yes. The more expensive bikes are typically more expensive not for their quality, but for their advanced technology (like touchscreen displays and streaming options). If you’re a fitness class enthusiast or just want the latest tech in your console, it will be worth your while to dish out the extra cash.
However, you can find a good build with high durability even at lower price points. If you’re not interested in added technology, there are plenty of more cost-effective bikes on the market that will give you the same quality workout as those at a higher price point.
References
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.
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).
Lion, A., Vibert, D., Bosser, G., Gauchard, G. C., & Perrin, P. P. (2016). Vertigo in downhill mountain biking and road cycling. European journal of sport science, 16(1), 135-140.
Exercise bikes are a key part of most public gyms and have become increasingly popular tools for home gyms. They’re generally smaller and relatively 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 even your arms (if you do your handlebar push-ups right, of course).
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? Do you need a quiet piece of equipment? How much money are you willing to spend? With these questions in mind, we’ve narrowed the options down to eight of the best exercise bikes on the market to make your decision just a little bit easier.
Best Exercise Bikes
Best Exercise Bike Overall
To nab the top spot, an exercise bike has to be versatile and able to accommodate both streaming and low-tech riding options. Our top pick excels in those areas and features a great price point with quiet operation.
Sole SB900
The SB900 may not include a huge fancy screen, but it does have a lot of other features that more than make up for that. Instead of delivering online workout programs to a big (and expensive) screen, the SB900’s integrated tablet holder allows you to follow along with whatever streaming service you like. If you don’t have one, you can use one of over 3,000 classes using the 90-day free trial ($19.99 per month after) of Sole’s streaming workout service, Studio™ — a workout streaming service.
Sole SB900 Exercise Bike
The Sole SB900 is a durable and high quality addition to any home gym, featuring stat tracking, an adjustable seat and handlebars, quiet magnetic resistance and front wheels for easy portability. Its display is simple and you won’t find any added technological distractions within its console.
Avid cyclists will like that the pedals can accommodate both clip-in cycling shoes or regular trainers, so you don’t have to buy special footwear, but you have the option to. The integrated three-by-four-inch console display, while somewhat basic, is compatible with a wireless heart rate chest strap and shows key information about your workout, like RPMs, time, distance, and speed. The sturdy steel frame and silent magnetic resistance on the 48-pound flywheel make this a great choice for home use to work up a sweat no matter when you find the time to pedal. You can pick the SB900 up for around $899, which is a fair price considering the included features.
Specs
- Dimensions: 21 inches wide by 40 inches long by 42 inches tall
- Resistance Type: Eddy Current Magnetic Resistance
- Resistance Levels: 100
- Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
- Bike Weight: 160 pounds
- You can ride this bike early in the morning or late at night without waking up the whole house.
- No need to pay more money for a bike with advanced technology that you might not need or want.
- This bike is durable and more cost-effective than high-end models while still sporting many of the same features.
- This piece of equipment doesn’t come with a heart rate monitor or hand-grip pulse sensors.
- Customers who prefer to have the latest technology installed in their bike’s console might want to check out other options on this list.
- If you’re on a particularly tight budget, there are cheaper options out there despite the reasonable price of the SB900.
Read our full review of the Sole SB900.
Best Exercise Bike for the Money
Sometimes less is more. That rings true for this exercise bike that provides a nice combination of affordability and features that make it a great value.
Sole SB700 Exercise Bike
The beauty of the SB700 is its simplicity. It has all the features you need to work up a good sweat without a ton of add-ons to work up the price. For a basic workout, you can track your stats on the screen without being distracted by a large display. Feel like streaming a class? Simply pop your tablet in the included holder and you’re ready to go.
Sole SB700 Exercise Bike
The Sole SB700 was built for riders who like to keep their workouts simple. It sports a 48-pound flywheel with adjustable resistance, adjustable handlebars and seat, and a tablet holder that allows for third-party fitness class streaming while you ride.
The integrated turn dial allows you to crank up the difficulty, and it features micro-adjustments, so you can ensure you always have just the right amount of burn. If you’re worried about noise, the SB700 features a kevlar braking system for a smooth and quiet ride. Also, you won’t have to worry about buying cycling shoes since the toe cages work with nearly all running shoes and sneakers. You can pick this up for the modest price of about $699 — half the price of some other bikes.
Specs
- Dimensions: 21 inches wide by 40 inches long by 42 inches tall
- Resistance Type: Felt Pad Brake Resistance
- Resistance Levels: 20
- Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
- Bike Weight: 141 pounds
- The SB700 is a versatile bike at a lower price point than many others. This bike is well-built without any extraneous features to jack up the price.
- You can simply want to hop on and ride without fussing with touchscreens and other displays.
- There’s no need to switch between running shoes and clip-ins since this can accommodate either.
- The tech that’s built into the console isn’t the latest and greatest.
- Athletes who want incorporated heart rate monitoring in their bike will want to look at other bikes on this list.
- The SB700 doesn’t have power-adjustable resistance.
Read our full review of the Sole SB700 Exercise Bike.
Best Exercise Bike for Weight Loss
This pick provides a unique cycling workout that works both your upper and lower body for a full-body burn. There’s also a built-in calorie tracker so you can see how much you’ve burned as you go.
Assault AirBike
The Assault AirBike is unique in that instead of classic handlebars, this bike features moving arms, so you can work both your upper and lower body simultaneously. Known as the “calorie bike,” the added movement torches extra calories and is great for interval training, cross-training, and CrossFit.
This bike does utilize fan resistance, so things can get a bit noisy and windy, but the resistance limits are endless — the harder you go, the more resistance you’ll feel.
Assault AirBike
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.
Specs
- Dimensions: 23.3 inches wide by 50.9 inches long by 48.4 inches tall
- Resistance Type: Air via Fan Blade Wheel
- Resistance Levels: Infinite
- Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
- Bike Weight: 98.1 pounds
- The Airbike can provide a full-body burn from a single piece of equipment.
- There are infinite resistance levels on their bike. Simply push harder for more of a challenge.
- The Assault Airbike is good for bikers who like following along with pre-programmed workouts — especially interval workouts.
- This isn’t exactly a quiet piece of equipment for home use.
- The Airbike isn’t compatible with clip-in shoes.
- There isn’t a lot of tech here with only a basic screen and there aren’t really any options for streaming workouts.
Read our full review of the Assault AirBike.
Best Exercise Bike for Apartments
Life in apartments can become cramped quickly, so it pays to find exercise equipment with a small footprint. This exercise bike is small but mighty with a modest footprint and easy-to-move weight.
Schwinn 170 Exercise Bike
The Schwinn 170 seems made for those with limited space, as its footprint is only 41 inches long, 21 inches wide, and 56 inches tall. This means it fits neatly into a two-foot by four-foot area. When you inevitably need to move it to another unit or room then you’ll be glad that it only weighs about 58 pounds, which is a fraction of the weight of some other exercise bikes.
Schwinn 170 Exercise Bike
This bike is built for those who need efficiency. It’s lightweight, has a small footprint, is affordable, and still packs the features in. The Schwinn 170 comes with 29 programs and 25 levels of resistance to accommodate all skill levels.
Its small stature doesn’t imply weakness, however. The bike’s steel frame boasts a weight limit of 300 pounds, and its dual LCD screen is loaded with 29 programs and 25 levels of computer-controlled resistance. Also, the high-inertia drive system makes for smooth and quiet workouts, so your neighbors won’t hear every time you spin up the pedals. The Schwinn 170 won’t put you back a month’s rent either, as it costs only about $549.
Specs
- Dimensions: 21.4 inches wide by 41.3 inches long by 55.6 inches tall
- Resistance Type: Inertia Drive Magnetic Resistance
- Resistance Levels: 25
- Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
- Bike Weight: 58.4 pounds
- The smooth drive system and small footprint are optimal for apartment dwellers looking to stay quiet and save on floor space.
- This bike comes with 29 pre-set programs so anyone who wants options will be happy.
- You don’t have to pay a higher price for added technology. You won’t find any fancy touchscreens or ultra-wide displays here.
- Customers who prefer to have a high-tech exercise bike may be disappointed with the comparatively basic tech in this one.
- This doesn’t have a screen for built-in streaming.
- Those who want a bike that comes with weights will want to check out other options on this list.
Best Exercise Bike for Beginners
If you’re just testing the waters when it comes to cycling, this pick has all the basics, a couple of upgrades, and definitely won’t break the bank.
Sole SB700 Exercise Bike
As a beginner, you likely don’t want to be dropping a ton of money on an indoor bike you may not end up liking. However, you’re still going to want a quality product that will aid in your training journey. The Sole SB700 is just that — it has stat tracking, a tablet holder, basic toe cages, and smaller dimensions that won’t consume your entire space.
Sole SB700 Exercise Bike
The Sole SB700 was built for riders who like to keep their workouts simple. It sports a 48-pound flywheel with adjustable resistance, adjustable handlebars and seat, and a tablet holder that allows for third-party fitness class streaming while you ride.
Additionally, the Kelvar braking system makes for a smooth ride, so you won’t have to worry about the wobbles, allowing you to focus on building your skill and technique. This bike goes for just under $700, which keeps your first bike purchase on the less expensive end of the market.
Specs
- Dimensions: 21 inches wide by 40 inches long by 42 inches tall
- Resistance Type: Felt Pad Brake Resistance
- Resistance Levels: 20
- Weight Capacity: 300 pounds
- Bike Weight: 141 pounds
- The SB700 has a tablet holder for the option to stream classes from a third-party app.
- You can keep things basic and nix the advanced technology many more expensive options have.
- This is a quality bike at a lower price point than many others with similar features.
- There isn’t a lot of tech built into this bike so if you want that you may be disappointed.
- This bike isn’t compatible with clip-in shoes.
- You won’t find automatic or electronic resistance adjustment here. You’ll need to manually adjust it.
Read our full review of the Sole SB700.
Best Exercise Bike for Interactive Classes
If you’re a studio-goer who loves a good inspirational quote from a fitness coach, the NordicTrack Commercial S22i allows you to bring that experience into your home.
NordicTrack Commercial S22i
Though the NordicTrack Commercial S22i will cost you a pretty penny, you’ll get all of the technology you need to bring the studio cycling experience home with you. Not only does this bike have a 22” HD touchscreen display that allows you to interact with coaches and other users throughout your streamed classes, but your purchase also comes with a free month of iFit, so you won’t have to pay the membership fee for this experience for the first 30 days.
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.
On top of this technology, the NordicTrack Commercial S22i also has 22 levels of resistance, and incline and decline options that range from -10 to 20 percent, making it one of the more advanced and versatile options on the market.
Specs
- Dimensions: 22 inches wide by 61 inches long by 58 inches tall
- Resistance Type: Silent Magnetic Resistance (SMR™)
- Resistance Levels: 24
- Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
- Bike Weight: 205 pounds
- Bring home the studio experience instead of driving across town and potentially save money on expensive membership fees.
- NordicTrack included a large display and advanced technology built into this bike.
- The Commercial S22i has lots of resistance levels, as well as incline and decline options.
- All of the added technology may serve as a distraction instead of being helpful for some people.
- This bike is significantly more expensive than some other models on the market, though they may not have the same features.
Read our full review of the NordicTrack Commercial S22i.
Best Exercise Bike for Heavier Athletes
For a sturdy steel bike that can accommodate heavier builds, look no further than the NordicTrack Commercial S15i.
NordicTrack Commercial S15i
This 203-pound bike can hold users who weigh up to 350 pounds, which is more than the 300-pound average you’ll find across the market. It’s made of commercial-grade steel and offers a padded saddle for extra comfort for users of all sizes.
NordicTrack Commercial S15i Exercise Bike
The NordicTrack Commercial S15i is great for anyone who wants modernizations like an included fitness subscription, a large touchscreen display, and incline and decline options. Plus, the sturdy build and padded seat will hold up throughout years (possibly even decades) of usage.
In addition to its quality, durability, and stability, this bike also features a ton of technology, including a 14-inch, 360-degree rotating touchscreen display, a free month of iFit, and Bluetooth connectivity for the ultimate immersive experience both on and off the bike. It’s worth noting that you will pay for the high quality of this piece of equipment — the NordicTrack S15i goes for just under $1,600.
Specs
- Dimensions: 22 inches wide by 60 inches long by 58 inches tall
- Resistance Type: Silent Magnetic Resistance (SMR™)
- Resistance Levels: 22
- Weight Capacity: 350 pounds
- Bike Weight: 203 pounds
- This is a more stable build that can handle weights up to 350 pounds.
- The S15i is a bike made of high-quality, commercial-grade steel that’s built to withstand lots of use.
- NordicTrack included the latest in technology built into this bike.
- Some people may find the large screen and high-tech distracting.
- This bike is more expensive than many other options, likely due to the included tech features.
- You can’t easily relocate or store this bike since it weighs 203 pounds.
Read our full review of the NordicTrack S15i.
Best Exercise Bike with Weights
Sometimes cardio isn’t enough by itself to give you the workout you want. This exercise bike comes with a set of weights to allow you to give your upper body a great burn as well.
Schwinn IC4
Hand weights are commonly used in many cycling studios to provide a full-body workout. Exercise bikes that are sold for home use often neglect to include this piece of equipment, but the Schwinn IC4 comes with a pair of three-pound dumbbells with cradles within reach for seamless use on and off the bike. To make the most use of those dumbbells, you can stream workouts on a tablet using the built-in tablet holder. You receive one year of streaming with JRNY for free with your purchase but the IC4 is also compatible with Peloton and Zwift programming.
Schwinn IC4 Exercise Bike
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.
Aside from offering top-notch streaming and weights, this bike is excellent for cardio, with 100 levels of smooth magnetic resistance to cycle through. Dual sided-pedals are included for shoes with clips and regular running shoes to satisfy all footwear fans. Schwinn has this versatile bike priced at around $999.
Specs
- Dimensions: 21.25 inches wide by 48.75 inches long by 52 inches tall
- Resistance Type: Electromagnetic Resistance
- Resistance Levels: 100
- Weight Capacity: 330 pounds
- Bike Weight: 106 pounds
- The included weights are there to add upper body strength work into your cycling session, much like a spin class.
- You can use Peloton, Zwift, or the free year of JRNY that comes included to follow a coached virtual class while you pedal.
- Anyone who wants a variety of resistance levels will enjoy that they can select from 100 different ones here.
- You’ll have to provide your own display with the built-in tablet holder here to stream workouts.
- If you don’t need the hand weights there are other options available to choose from.
- Those who are on a budget can find more cost-effective options on this list.
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. (1) Exercise bikes offer a lower joint impact form of cardio, you can perform the exercise while seated, and they’re inherently safer than road cycling. Let’s dig more into these benefits below.
Low-Impact Exercise
Unlike 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 as resistance. This can decrease the stress your joints feel and often allow you to progress more quickly since you don’t have to wait for your joints and connective tissues to recover as much.
This can be particularly beneficial for larger or heavier athletes whose joints will have to endure more stress during forms of cardio that use body weight as the resistance instead of mechanical resistance. (2)
Seated Exercise
It might not seem like a big consideration at first, but remaining seated while performing a workout can have multiple benefits. If you suffer from vertigo or become dizzy sometimes, you should consult a physician, but being seated on an exercise bike might help to reduce head movement, which can help with vertigo. (3)
Additionally, those who suffer from low back pain may find that sitting can help them perform full workouts that they may have otherwise not been able to on a standing machine, like an elliptical or treadmill.
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 road 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 recovering from mishaps.
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
All of the bikes on this list are built to last. You won’t find one pick on here that won’t live out its average 10- to 20-year lifespan if you treat it right. Of course, that means cleaning it properly, wiping away any stray sweat droplets, and using the front wheels with care.
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
We want everyone, on every budget, to have an option on this list. We’ve included bikes from all price points, each one worth every dollar and then some. You’ll find bikes with fewer features at a less expensive price as well as more technologically advanced bikes at a higher price, so no matter your individual price range, we have a pick that will suit you.
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 interactive touchscreens and motivational quotes to stay inspired throughout their sessions.
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.
How Much Do Exercise Bikes Cost?
Exercise bikes, like nearly all cardio machines, are a significant investment and represent a commitment to working out regularly when you purchase one. Nearly all of them come with the ability to access some sort of workout streaming service, which is an additional fee that you should consider when weighing your options.
Best Exercise Bike Overall
Sole SB900 Exercise Bike
$899.99 before optional streaming service
Best Exercise Bike for the Money
Sole SB700 Exercise Bike
$699.99 before optional streaming service
Best Exercise Bike for Weight Loss
Assault AirBike
$699
Best Exercise Bike for Apartments
Schwinn 170 Upright Bike
$549 before optional streaming service
Best Exercise Bike for Beginners
Sole SB700 Exercise Bike
$699.99 before optional streaming service
Best Exercise Bike for Interactive Classes
NordicTrack Commercial S22i
$1,899 before optional streaming service
Best Exercise Bike for Heavier Athletes
NordicTrack Commercial S15i
$1,149 before optional streaming service
Best Exercise Bike with Weights
Schwinn IC4
$999 before optional streaming service
The bikes themselves can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to thousands for commercial or studio-level bikes. The ones on this list rest somewhere between $550 and $1,900. Streaming services generally cost somewhere in the realm of around $20 to $40 per month, though most offer annual subscriptions for a discounted price.
How to Choose the Best Exercise Bike for You
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 are a few of the most important ones.
Durability
If you work out a lot, you want a bike that...
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