Similar to traditional cycling, exercise bikes provide numerous physical and health benefits. Exercising from the comfort of your living room, or even while watching TV, sounds like a fantastic idea, doesn’t it? Here’s our guide to making the right choice.
What Is the Best Exercice Bike ?
JOROTO X2PRO
Magnetic braking system, wide saddle, non-slip pedals with cage. App-compatible for varied, motivating workouts.
1-year warranty
BikeERG Concept2
Compact, Bluetooth connectivity, lightweight, durable aluminum frame. Compatible with HIIT training app,
2-year warranty
Schwinn AD6 Airdyne
Infinite-resistance echobike for upper- and lower-body training. Ideal for cardio / weight training. LCD display, heart rate belt.
2-year warranty
Echelon EX-15 Smart Connect
32 resistance levels, access to 3,000 fitness classes, compact design. Wide saddle, adjustable pedals with cages, large LCD display.
1-year warranty
DeskCycle 2
Desk bike for exercising while working. 8 resistance levels, silent operation, ultra-low profile for use under any desk.
1-year warranty
Sportstech ESX500
26 lbs flywheel belt, 16 resistance levels, coaching with Kinomap, 5.5” digital display. Very compact and quiet.
2-year warranty
Ultrasport F-Bike 200B
Exercise bike with 8 difficulty levels, LCD screen, integrated computer support, folding and lightweight (41 lbs).
2-year warranty
Sportstech SX400
Sportstech is a leading brand in high-quality exercise bikes! Sportstech’s bikes surpass typical apartment bikes made in China; they are robust and crafted with the meticulous care typical of German manufacturers.
The SX600 model stands out in its class, featuring a balanced flywheel with fluid bearing designed for durability, minimizing wear and tear. It’s perfect for effective endurance training to maintain fitness.
This high-performance exercise bike is self-contained, allowing versatile use throughout your home. It features a highly comfortable saddle adjustable both vertically and horizontally (for inclination), along with fully adjustable handlebars to suit your body type. Padded supports on the handlebars reduce strain on your arms during extended training sessions.
The non-slip pedals with integrated straps allow you to adjust the pedal fit to your foot, providing stability during intense training sessions.
The frame includes a water bottle holder, and a stainless-steel bottle is included with the bike. Additionally, there’s a tablet holder for visualizing routes on your own tablet. The bike’s materials are highly durable, supporting up to 330 lbs while maintaining stability.
Ingeniously designed transport wheels underneath the frame allow easy movement of the exercise bike around your home without lifting, preventing floor damage. Any family member can maneuver the bike safely.
For workout monitoring, the SX400 features handlebar-mounted heart rate sensors and supports connection with a heart rate belt.
Why Choose the Sportstech SX400?
- Exceptionally durable, you can use it daily for years without signs of wear.
- The 49 lbs inertia ensures efficient and effective workouts.
- The bike’s sporty design offers a delightful feel.
- Includes the Kinomap application for realistic training experiences.
The best-selling exercise bike from this German brand offers both ease of use and quality materials.
QUALITY / PRICE: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Perfect!
PRACTICAL: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very easy to use on a daily basis
COMFORT: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The inertia wheel provides real comfort
SAFETY: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Stable and durable with its quality materials
2. Ultrasport F-Bike
This affordable exercise bike is undoubtedly the best basic option available. It’s straightforward and perfect for regular home workouts. Equipped with an LCD screen for real-time pulse and speed display, it offers 8 resistance levels to adjust workout intensity.
It folds easily for compact storage in a cupboard or garage, comparable in size to an ironing board. The adjustable saddle ensures comfort. Suitable for athletes weighing less than 220 lbs and measuring between 4’11” to 5’11”.
While not ideal for elite athletes, this bike is perfect for those looking to stay fit with a minimalist, budget-friendly option.
This budget-friendly exercise bike is suitable for occasional use, featuring full foldability for space-saving storage.
QUALITY / PRICE: ⭐⭐⭐⭐★ Correct
PRACTICAL: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Folds easily for storage
COMFORT: ⭐⭐⭐⭐★ Minimalist but sufficient for occasional use
SAFETY: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Stable under 220 lbs
3. Sportstech SX600
This top-of-the-range exercise bike features cutting-edge technology, ideal for experienced athletes. It boasts a 57 lbs flywheel, a silent maintenance-free transmission system, and a powerful 32-speed electric motor!
The 3-in-1 handlebars provide versatile training positions: aerodynamic (both hands on central grips), relaxed outboard, and pulse-capture positions. The pedals are exceptionally comfortable with ball bearings and stopper baskets.
The electric bike features an Android console with a high-quality 7” LCD screen, allowing you to follow virtual courses via the FitShow app or train in HRC mode.
Like the SX400 model, wheels are included for effortless house-to-house movement. It supports up to 397 lbs and features a comfortable saddle for extended, pain-free workouts.
Sportstech offers the best spinning bike on the market, packed with compelling features to enhance your indoor workouts.
QUALITY / PRICE: ⭐⭐⭐⭐★ Excellent
PRACTICAL: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Equipped with all the necessary accessories
COMFORT: ⭐⭐⭐⭐★ Everything is adjustable from the handlebars to the saddle
SAFETY: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Extremely stable and durable
4. Ultrasport F-Bike 200B
This affordable exercise bike features a backrest, ideal for long training sessions.
The Ultrasport F-Bike 200B includes a backrest, perfect for extended workouts. The small LCD display indicates speed, intensity, workout duration, distance covered, calories burned, and pulse.
The bike is foldable for convenient storage and transport within your home. It features magnetic resistance with 8 intensity levels for progressive workouts. Supports users up to 220 lbs.
This budget-friendly exercise bike is ideal for occasional use or for those seeking affordable equipment without compromising quality.
Ideal for budget-conscious individuals seeking a comfortable, practical bike for 1-2 weekly workouts.
QUALITY / PRICE: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very good
PRACTICAL: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Easy to fold
COMFORT: ⭐⭐⭐⭐★ The seat back is a real plus
SAFETY: ⭐⭐⭐⭐★ Quite stable
5. Sportstech ESX500
The ESX500 is an advanced exercise bike equipped with all the features necessary to build muscle mass and enhance your cycling skills.
Featuring a 26 lbs flywheel, it is equipped with ball-bearing and belt-driven pedals, ensuring an extremely smooth and silent operation. Pedals are non-slip with adjustable straps for enhanced comfort. Both the saddle and handlebars are adjustable in height and inclination, allowing you to find the most comfortable position for your needs.
The display grants access to 12 pre-installed programs, allowing you to enhance your workout progressively. You can use your exercise bike in manual mode, watt training mode, or with one of the HRC programs designed to elevate your heart rate.
The tablet holder, located in front of the classic screen, allows you to place your tablet or phone and use the Kinomap application, which displays your training data and programs.
The exercise bike supports a maximum user weight of 264 lbs to ensure optimal performance, and it is equipped with castors for easy mobility within your home.
This lightweight version of Sportstech’s spinning bike is ideal for frequent use and improving cycling performance.
QUALITY/PRICE: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Awesome!
PRACTICAL: ⭐⭐⭐⭐★ Installation is easy
COMFORT: ⭐⭐⭐⭐★ Lightweight flywheel is a nice touch
SAFETY: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Strong and durable materials
6. Bluefin Tour SP
The Bluefin Tour SP is a connected exercise bike that competes with models from Sportstech. A tablet holder is provided for your phone or tablet, enabling immersive training experiences with the Kinomap application.
The 55 lbs flywheel provides a realistic outdoor cycling experience. The chain drive system is exceptionally quiet and features a magnetic safety brake for easy slowing down.
The seat can be adjusted to 9 different heights, and the handlebars are also adjustable vertically or horizontally to customize your position for optimal comfort during workouts. The bike is compatible with a training belt and includes an HRC mode for setting and maintaining a target heart rate during training, with automatic resistance adjustments.
The bike comes with non-slip pedals equipped with adjustable straps to fit your feet securely. Transport wheels have been integrated into the bike’s base for effortless mobility within any room where you wish to exercise.
7. Sportstech F-bike X100
The Sportstech F-bike X100 offers 2 training options with integrated pull cords and a pivoting guide pulley. Features an LCD screen with heart rate readouts from handlebar grips.
The comfortable seat includes a folding, padded backrest. Adjustable to 4 height levels, accommodating users up to 6’3”. The crankset is in 3 parts, with an 8.8 lbs inertia weight for effective workouts. Folds completely for compact storage.
How to Choose an Exercise Bike
The Exercise Bike: Sporty and… Comfortable
Imagine sitting at home, watching “Questions pour un Champion” (because, yes, our readers are curious and cultured), while also improving your endurance and muscles. There are few sports that can achieve this, aside from using an exercise bike.
You don’t need to venture out to the gym, whether it’s during COVID-19 or while it’s raining cats and dogs (if that expression still exists?). An exercise bike for home use is practical, time-saving, comfortable, stress-relieving, and above all, a genuine sport. It’s low-impact, reducing the risk of injury significantly.
Now that I’ve hopefully convinced you (unless you were already convinced before arriving here), let’s discuss how to choose the right exercise bike. Whether you’re deciding between an entry-level bike just over $110 or an ultra-sophisticated $2,500 model, consider your budget and fitness goals.
Define Your Training Intensity
If you’re preparing to climb the Ventoux or cross-train for a marathon, your needs will differ from someone simply looking to stay fit during winter. Consider these points first:
- How often do you plan to use the exercise bike each week?
- Are you involved in any other sports concurrently?
- Are you seeking a leisure activity for the whole family, or do you prefer intense and energetic workouts?
- Are you seeking a model for post-injury rehabilitation, or one that will serve you well in the long term?
Type of Model: Upright, Semi-Recumbent, Spinning
Semi-Recumbent Exercise Bike
Initially, choose between an upright or semi-recumbent exercise bike.
Simply put, the semi-recumbent bike (also known as a seated or recumbent bike) emphasizes comfort. It’s perfect for rehabilitation, maintaining fitness, or individuals with lumbar issues. The back is well-supported, and the wider seat offers significant comfort – almost like sitting on your sofa! Well, almost, because you still have to pedal! With the crankset positioned forward, the body experiences less gravity impact; however, the upper body exerts less effort.
Upright Exercise Bike
An upright bike allows you to engage both upper and lower body muscles. By adjusting your posture using the handlebars (such as torso curvature or bent arms) or engaging your abdominal muscles during exercise, you can effectively tone your body on an upright exercise bike. From a cardiovascular perspective, upright bikes offer a more intense workout and focus more on the athletic aspect than comfort.
Spinning Exercise Bike
For the most intense workouts, consider a spinning bike (or ergometric bike). Its unique design, numerous settings (saddle, handlebars, resistance), and array of built-in programs are optimized for performance. Let’s be clear: we’re talking about serious aerobics and calorie burning here! Spinning bikes are commonly used in cycling classes: with a little creativity and a motivating playlist, you can transform your living room into a personal gym. All you need is a fitness instructor to guide you.
The best spinning exercise bikes:
- Sportstech SX600
- Sportstech SX400
- Sportstech ESX500
Folding Exercise Bikes
If you live in a small apartment or don’t have a home gym, investing in a folding exercise bike could be worthwhile. There are many models of folding exercise bikes available, but it’s important to check the weight to ensure it’s manageable when folded.
Most professional exercise bikes (e.g., those with a flywheel) are not foldable due to the heavy wheel, but they come with casters for easy movement within the house.
The best folding exercise bikes :
- Ultrasport F-Bike
- Ultrasport F-Bike 200B
Mini Exercise Bikes
If space is limited for an exercise bike, consider a mini exercise bike. These compact models, often with just one pedal, can be used while sitting in a chair or at a desk to build muscle during work. While mini exercise bikes offer a gentle fitness option, they cannot replace a full-sized exercise bike.
Which Exercise Bike Is Best for Weight Loss?
Exercise contributes to weight loss, but certain exercise bikes are more effective than others for fat burning. Spinning bikes, in particular, offer pre-programmed training sessions that progressively burn calories.
Bikes equipped with flywheels mimic the pedaling action of a real racing bike, making them excellent for enhancing pedal technique and reducing fat mass in the legs or thighs.
Which Muscles Does the Exercise Bike Target?
Before delving into the muscles targeted by an exercise bike, recognize that cycling on one provides excellent cardiovascular exercise. Progressive workouts with heart rate control (HRC) programs adapt intensity based on heart rate.
However, beyond cardiovascular benefits, cycling on an exercise bike engages numerous lower body muscles, including:
- Gluteal Muscles: They work particularly hard when pedaling with your heels.
- Quadriceps and Hamstrings: They are engaged regardless of pedaling technique.
- Calf Muscles: They are heavily engaged when pedaling with your heels.
Depending on your exercise bike posture, upper body muscles can also be engaged:
- Back Muscles: Engaged when standing straight while pedaling.
- Abdominal Muscles: Engaged regardless of posture.
- Biceps and Triceps: Engaged when gripping handlebars at a fast pace.
To target specific muscles, increase pedaling intensity for deeper engagement.
Technical Features of the Exercise Bike
The Flywheel
The flywheel is a metal disc driven by the pedals that smooths pedaling and absorbs shocks.
One of the most important factors is the weight of the flywheel. The heavier the flywheel, the smoother and more realistic the pedaling experience will be, akin to actual cycling conditions. Conversely, a too-light flywheel may cause jerky movements.
Flywheels weighing less than 17 lbs are suitable for light use, like gentle rehabilitation. For more versatility, aim for a flywheel weight of 17 to 57 lbs, capable of enduring extended sessions. For guaranteed comfort, opt for a flywheel over 44 lbs, especially during demanding workouts!
The Type of Resistance
The resistance of an exercise bike is provided by the flywheel brake, which adjusts the difficulty of pedaling. There are three primary types of resistance:
- Magnetic resistance: Magnets approach the flywheel to create resistance. This type of resistance can be adjusted manually using a knob or, ideally, directly from the console. This allows access to training programs where resistance automatically adjusts to vary difficulty levels. It’s the quietest option.
- Electromagnetic resistance: This type is more precise, using an electric current to control resistance via the magnets’ voltage. Pedaling is smoother and adjustments are more accurate. It’s a great option if you plan to ride at least 8 hours per week.
- Shoe brakes: This is the most aggressive and closest to competition bikes, commonly found on spinning bikes. Ideal for serious cyclists!
Choose the Right Exercise Bike for You
Pay attention to ensure the bike is suitable for your height and weight. A wide, padded saddle is ideal for longer rides, providing comfort and motivation to maintain your workout routine.
The more handlebar and saddle adjustments (both vertical and horizontal) available on your exercise bike, the better! Advanced models allow for precise positioning tailored to your needs. Don’t overlook the importance of adjusting the bike to ensure comfort, which is essential for an effective workout!
Sturdy Frame
Your pedaling style may be smooth, but vigorous sprints or intense climbs can stress the frame. Opt for an aluminum or steel frame, as they are more durable and resistant to shocks. The maximum weight capacity is also an important consideration.
An entry-level exercise bike weighing less than 220 lbs may struggle during fast pedaling; choose a bike with a weight capacity of over 264 lbs for stability, especially during vigorous sprints.
Console and Integrated Programs
We’re not focusing on screen quality or technical specifications. Instead, pay attention to the information displayed on the console. Look for measurements such as speed, time, distance, and calories burned, which are standard features.
However, not all models display advanced data like power output (in Watts), heart rate, or pedaling cadence. Determine if these metrics are important to you.
Evaluate the training programs available on the console to ensure they align with your goals and fitness level. Look for bikes that allow program customization as you advance.
Evaluate the training programs available on the console to ensure they align with your goals and fitness level. Look for bikes that allow program customization as you advance.
Is a Connected Exercise Bike More Than a Gadget?
Opt for a Bluetooth or Wifi-enabled exercise bike, also known as a connected home trainer, for access to specialized training apps. Enjoy coaching, performance tracking, and nutritional guidance.
Some bikes allow you to participate in online races, extending the community aspect of cycling to exercise bike users. Plus, you can view Google Maps during your workout, enhancing the experience.
Additional Considerations
While not essential, consider accessories like a water bottle holder and fan for added convenience. It’s unlikely you’ll have a lion-costumed spectator spraying you with Vittel during workouts!
Consider the size, weight, and portability of the bike, ensuring it has wheels for easy movement. If space is limited or you plan to use it seasonally, opt for a folding exercise bike for convenient storage.
Lastly, if you live in an apartment, choose a quiet bike to avoid disturbing neighbors during workouts.
Where to Buy an Exercise Bike?
Although some exercise bikes may be found in sports stores, the best models are typically not available in supermarkets. The bikes recommended in this article are popular and of high quality.
They are primarily available online, with manufacturers providing after-sales service and a one- or two-year warranty. Purchasing from Amazon ensures flexibility with returns if the product doesn’t meet your needs.
Our Favorite Exercise Bikes
JOROTO X2PRO
Magnetic braking system, wide saddle, non-slip pedals with cage. App-compatible for varied, motivating workouts.
1-year warranty
BikeERG Concept2
Compact, Bluetooth connectivity, lightweight, durable aluminum frame. Compatible with HIIT training app,
2-year warranty
Schwinn AD6 Airdyne
Infinite-resistance echobike for upper- and lower-body training. Ideal for cardio / weight training. LCD display, heart rate belt.
2-year warranty
Echelon EX-15 Smart Connect
32 resistance levels, access to 3,000 fitness classes, compact design. Wide saddle, adjustable pedals with cages, large LCD display.
1-year warranty
DeskCycle 2
Desk bike for exercising while working. 8 resistance levels, silent operation, ultra-low profile for use under any desk.
1-year warranty
Sportstech ESX500
26 lbs flywheel belt, 16 resistance levels, coaching with Kinomap, 5.5” digital display. Very compact and quiet.
2-year warranty
Ultrasport F-Bike 200B
Exercise bike with 8 difficulty levels, LCD screen, integrated computer support, folding and lightweight (41 lbs).
2-year warranty