The 6 Best Home Exercise Bikes
Looking to get your cardio in at home and want to do it on an exercise bike? Love it! Exercise bikes are a great, low-impact way to get in a workout.
I’ve curated the best exercise bikes across three categories:
From Tosca
Enjoy this summer activity throughout every season
Cycling is one of the most effective cardio workouts—it seems a shame to relegate such beneficial exercise to one season. I like to watch POV videos of rides all over the world while I’m on my stationary bike; it’s almost as good as getting the experience first-hand. I hope this list inspires you to add an exercise bike to your home workout space.
Upright Exercise Bikes
An upright exercise bike is exactly what it sounds like; the seat, handlebars, and pedals are positioned so you don’t have to lean forward like you would on an actual bicycle. This position makes upright bikes more comfortable for some users.
Nautilus U616
$289
Pros
- Bluetooth connectivity for integration with fitness apps
- Comes with 29 workout programs 25 resistance levels
Cons
- Firm seat isn’t for everyone
- Only connects with iPhones
The Nautilus U616 is a plug-in upright option that uses magnets as a resistance mechanism. This model works with Explore the World, showing you over 50 global routes and adjusting the resistance to match the terrain.
Goal-specific programs Dual-track display lets you keep an eye on your device & your stats. Backed by a 10-year warranty on the frame and 3 on mechanical and electrical components.
NordicTrack S22i Comercial Studio Cycle
$1,499
Pros
- Large color display Bluetooth connectivity for wireless headphone
- Automatic adjustments with iFit workout
Cons
- One of the more expensive options on this list
The NordicTrack S22i gives you the experience of a spin studio from your own home. Its 22” rotating touchscreen display is perfect for streaming workouts with iFIT trainers. With 24 levels of magnetic resistance, this bike offers a challenging and varied workout.
This NordicTrack comes with a 30-day iFit Family Membership nd 3-pound dumbbells. Backed by a 10-year frame warranty and 2-year parts warranty
Recumbent Exercise Bikes
Rather than a bike seat, recumbent exercise bikes have a seat similar to a chair, with the pedals out in front. The setup of a recumbent bike requires less balance and reduces strain on your joints. This type of bike is popular for older adults or people trying to rehabilitate an injury.
Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Bike
$210
Pros
- 8 resistance levels
- Transport wheels to move into storage
- Very low price point
Cons
- Shorter warranty than other options
- Requires batteries for the display
The NS-40502Ris a great entry-level recumbent bike because it’s inexpensive, has excellent reviews, and offers all the essential functions you might want. This battery-powered bike offers 8 levels of magnetic resistance.
While this is an entry-level option, its portability and accessibility make it a great first (or next) exercise bike for any home.
Schwinn Recumbent 290
$799
Pros
- Comes with 2 free months of JRNY mobile app membership
- Zwift-compatible
- Built-in Bluetooth speakers
Cons
- Most workouts require JRNY membership
The Schwinn Recumbent 290 is a corded electric bike with 25 levels of magnetic resistance. And with Bluetooth capability, you can enjoy dynamic workouts from apps like JRNY and Zwift. The media shelf makes getting the most out of your JRNY membership easy.
Dual-Action Exercise Bikes
While other bikes have stationary handlebars, a dual-action exercise bike has vertical handles that swing forward and back, similar to the handles on an elliptical. Dual-action bikes engage more of your body during your workout, so you burn more calories.
Schwinn Airdyne AD6
$545
Pros
- Battery-powered display
- Operates reasonably quietly
- Produces wind to keep you cool
Cons
- Nowhere to put mobile devices
- Uncomfortable to “ride” if you aren’t holding the handles
The Schwinn Airdyne A6 is an air bike style dual-action bike, meaning it uses air to generate resistance. While you ride, the fan on the front creates wind which helps keep you cool. Plus, the LCD display lets you track your metrics while working out.
MarcyPro JX-7301
$310
Pros
- 8 resistance levels
- Display shows time, calories, distance, & speed
- Mobile device shelf
Cons
- Arm bars are not adjustable
The MarcyPro Jx-7301combines the intensity of a dual-action bike with the comfort of a recumbent bike. This battery-powered bike offers 8 levels of magnetic resistance. Plus, the JX has a shelf for your mobile device and a drink holder, so you have a safe place to put them while you work your arms.
Buyer’s Guide
What to Look for When Buying an Exercise Bike
While almost anyone can benefit from an exercise bike, not everyone needs the same thing from their bike. Consider the following things before purchasing your exercise bike.
Comfort
Your workout won’t last long if you can’t get comfortable. Make sure your bike has a nice comfortable seat, and consider any chronic joint issues you may have. If your joints give you trouble, it’s probably best to stick with a recumbent bike.
Metrics That Matter to You
You get to decide what a successful workout looks like—whether it’s the length of time, calories burned, or distance traveled. Before buying your exercise bike, consider what metrics mean the most to you and ensure your choice ticks the necessary boxes.
Display Type
How fancy do you want your display to be? Do you want a colorful touchscreen? Or are you happy with buttons and an LCD screen? Deciding what display functionality you want will help narrow your search for the perfect bike.