Best Exercise Bikes 2023 — Do NOT Buy Before Reading This!

Finding the Best Exercise Bike: Factors to Consider

So what to look for in an exercise bike? There are lots of features and components so let’s take a look at the most important ones:

Cost

The price of an exercise bike is based on the components and frame. Look for the following features:

• When evaluating a bike, pay attention to the frame. It should have steel stabilizers and support posts to keep it stable while riding. Most solid bikes weight between 125 – 200lbs. Leveling feet under the stabilizers will also help keep the bike from rocking. Also check the weight of the flywheel. Typically, heavier is better.
• You also want to check for multiple points of adjustment:
  • You should be able to raise/lower the saddle and handlebars. If you are a tall person, make sure the bike offers enough vertical lift to bring the handlebars up away from your knees.
  • Moving handlebars and saddle forward/aft is also tremendously helpful in getting the right fit.
• Make sure you know what you are paying for. Some bikes are more expensive because they feature an attached screen that is designed for subscription content. If you don’t want to pay a monthly fee for an app, then look for a bike without a screen — or one with a tablet holder for your personal tablet or phone.

Design

There are several different styles of exercise bikes:

• Upright – This design is similar to a beach cruiser, where the seat is lower with handlebars higher. This design allows you to sit up while riding so your torso is not compressed. Upright bikes typically feature a wider, more comfortable seat and handlebars that gently angle up.
• Studio – Your typical “spin” bike where the seat is level with the handlebars for a more aero-style position. Riders lean forward from the hips so torso is lower. Handlebars typically extend horizontally so riders can rest arms on the handlebars. Studio bikes have a narrower, less-padded seat similar to outdoor road bikes.
• Recumbent– a recumbent bike allows you to sit back, behind the pedals rather than over them. This provides more lumbar support and less knee tension. Recumbent bikes are also lower to the ground and easier to get on and off. These bikes work well for those with hip or spine issues, mobility issues, or anyone recovering from an injury. Recumbent bikes typically feature a very wide seat with a backrest and wide, ergonomic pedals. Check out our list of best recumbent bikes.
• Rear Flywheel –These bikes move the flywheel — or front wheel — to the rear of the bike. This keeps the flywheel out of the “sweat zone” so you don’t drip moisture down on your flywheel while riding. It also allows riders to sit up more like they would on an upright bike. Handlebars often can be adjusted to angle upward or stay horizontal.
• Air Bikes– Air bikes have large fans attached to the front of the bike. When you’re using the bike, air is sucked into the fan and the fan’s blades push against the air to create resistance for you to pedal against. Most air bikes have moving handles that move in conjunction with the pedals to work your entire body. The handles move forward and backward in a push/pull motion. Typically, air bikes are used for short bursts of high-intensity like HIIT training. The fans generate sound so these bikes aren’t best for areas where noise could be an issue.

Flywheel

The flywheel on a bike is the heavy, suspended wheel that moves when you pedal. The heavier the flywheel, the more momentum it will gain as you pedal, which keeps it spinning evenly.

• Bikes that feature a “perimeter weighted flywheel” or “inertia-enhanced flywheel” utilize the weight of the flywheel to create a smooth pedal stroke that glides along with you. Weighted flywheels support riders both in the saddle or when standing for a hill climb.
• Freewheels are much lighter and do not offer the same fluid motion of a weighted flywheel. However, freewheels are safer. As soon as you stop pedalling, the wheel stops — there is no inertia to keep it going. This makes it so the pedals will not spin out of control if you stop pedaling. Freewheels are a little harder to use if you like to stand up out of the saddle and they can feel jerky if you don’t have enough resistance.

Pedal

Exercise bikes typically feature four different kinds of pedals:

• SPD cleat pedals – These are the “clip in” cleats found on indoor spin bikes and mountain bikes. You must buy a cycling shoe and SPD cleats that “clip” down into the metal casing attached to the pedal.
• Delta LOOK cleat pedals – These are the cleats used most often by road bikers. They require specific shoes and cleats that attach to the sole of the shoe. These are larger than SPD cleats and lock right down into the pedal itself. Peloton bikes use LOOK pedals.
• Hybrid Pedals – Most indoor bikes (except for Peloton) feature hybrid pedals, with a cleat on one side and a standard flat pedal on the other side. Check the kind of pedal on each bike so you know if you need additional cycling shoes to ride.
• Flat, Ergonomic Pedals – This is the standard flat pedal. It is wide and textured and will work with any athletic shoe. Often flat pedals also have a “cage” or “strap” that comes around the pedal to hold your shoe in securely.

Screen/Console

Screens are relatively new on exercise bikes and they offer exciting features and content! A few things to watch for with a bike screen:

• Full-Color Touchscreen – Many high-end bikes offer touchscreens where you can choose a program or manage data and navigation through the screen. The size of the screen will affect how well you can see any program. Even if it is full-color touchscreen, if it is less than 10” you may find it hard to see. Also, check to see if the screen rotates side-to-side or swivels up and down. This helps avoid overhead glare and makes it so you can see your screen if you are doing classes off the bike. However, be aware — most touchscreens do not allow riders to access the internet while riding. Most screens are designed to feature specific apps and programs, so don’t assume just because it has a screen you can watch Netflix or browse the web — this is most often NOT the case.
• Compatible Screen – Some bikes offer screens that will show a limited number of full-color outdoor routes even if you don’t have a subscription app. While most bikes with screens are intended to be used with subscription content, you may be able to access a number of onboard programs through the screen. However, if you don’t pay for the subscription service, you won’t get all the classes and features.
• LCD Screen – This is the standard, digital screen found on traditional workout equipment. It will not display a subscription program with classes and trainers. It will display of your metrics and stats while riding. LCD screens are typically found on more economical bikes and usually offer just a few onboard programs.

Subscription Content

The most well-known subscription app is probably Peloton. However, NordicTrack and ProForm offer iFit, Echelon offers FitPass, and other companies are now following suit with additional fitness apps. Subscription content can typically be accessed three ways:

• Included or Prepaid for a limited time: Many companies will offer their app free for 1 to 3 years when you buy an exercise bike. A code allows you to login and set up your free account which includes all the classes and features. After the prepaid period ends, you must then subsequently pay for the service.
• Subscription app required – Some bikes are built to feature the app and if you don’t plan to use it or pay for it, I would look for a different bike. The Peloton bike is built around the app — the screen doesn’t really do anything if you aren’t paying for the service. Similarly, the NordicTrack s22i features a 22” touchscreen with iFit free for 1-year. Some of the functionality of the bike is integrated into the app — for example, the incline/decline feature on the bike will adjust to match the actual terrain of whatever route you are riding. There are some really cool features on these subscription services, just make sure you know how the app is integrated with the bike.
• Subscription app supported – This option is often found on mid-range bikes where the color screen will play a limited number of onboard programs if you don’t want to use an app. But if you decide to subscribe, it will play all the features and content.

Subscription app available via compatible tablet or phone

This option is found on more economical bikes that have a tablet holder so you can watch the app of your choice while riding. Be advised, some of the functionality of specific apps will be limited. For example, you will not show up on the Peloton leaderboard if you are just using the tablet app because the trainer can’t quantify how hard you are working. Similarly, the automated incline/decline feature in iFit cannot adjust your bike from a tablet.

Resistance Type and Calibration

There are a few different ways resistance is created and measured. Both affect how the bike feels and functions

• Resistance Type
  • Magnetic Resistance – this the best kind of resistance on an exercise bike. Magnets adjacent to the flywheel oppose the motion of the wheel. Magnetic resistance is quiet and easily calibrated. Because no friction is generated with magnetic resistance, it is noticeably quieter; it also creates less wear on the wheel.
  • Friction Resistance – this type of resistance is created when a brake pad creates drag as it rubs against the wheel to generate resistance. Tension resistance causes wear on the flywheel and the pads must occasionally be replaced. Also, as the pads wear down, it affects the amount of resistance on the flywheel, so it is not as easy to measure the actual tension.
• Resistance Calibration
  • Digital Levels – Preset digital resistance is the most accurate way to measure resistance. With digital resistance levels, you can set and find the same tension each time. There is no guesswork when increasing tension. It is also superior for moving quickly between resistance levels. Digital resistance is measured using preset levels that correspond to numbers on the console or screen.
  • Manual Knob Tension – Knob tension is usually found on bikes with friction resistance. This tension is much more difficult to measure and there are no preset levels you can automatically select.

Chain Drive vs. Belt Drive

Bike pedals connect to pedal arms that turn the crank wheel. A belt or chain loops around the crank wheel and connects to the flywheel to create rotation.

• Chain Drive System – A metal chain loops around the crank wheel and connects to the flywheel. One benefit of a chain drive is it is slightly more durable. However, chain drives are noticeably louder due to the movement of the chain. Users often report hearing rattling inside the drivetrain cover.
• Belt Drive – A rubber or composite belt connects the crank wheel to the flywheel. This design is much quieter, however, belts are known to wear out before chain drives with heavy use.

Incline/Decline Features

One of the most exciting features on recent bikes is actual incline and decline built into the bike. A motor on the rear stabilizer and an arm under the flywheel lift and tilt the bike to mimic outdoor terrain. Rather than just use resistance to simulate a hill climb, some of the new bikes actually pivot and tilt as you ride. This is a valuable feature and greatly enhances the functionality of the bike. Check out the NordicTrack and ProForm bikes for this feature.

Quality and Warranty

Exercise bikes are economical, but check for quality and warranty before you buy. Read reviews on how the bike typically holds up and what warranties are offered. In our reviews, we include warranty information on every bike. An extensive warranty usually indicates a well-built bike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of exercise bikes?

The kinds of exercise bikes on this list are also referred to as “spin: bikes or indoor cycling bikes. Other types of exercise bikes include upright bikes, recumbent bikes, and air bikes. You can learn more about each type here.

Is cycling better than running?

Depending on if you have joint issues or if you just want a low impact exercise, you will probably prefer cycling over running. One isn’t necessarily better than the other, it just depends on which one works better for your body and your overall preference. Both provide excellent health benefits and are popular workout activities

What type of resistance should I use on a stationary bike?

One of the most common types of resistance on an exercise bike is magnetic resistance because it is smooth and really quiet. On some bikes, it is even practically silent. This type of resistance also requires less maintenance than others and lets you see workout metrics like watt output and resistance level.

Magnetic bikes are usually more expensive. Friction resistance bikes are typically less expensive, but can make a little bit more noise and require a little bit more maintenance because they use a brake against a pad that can cause a bit more wear overtime. Friction resistance usually isn’t measured in levels like magnetic resistance so it’s often not displayed on the bike.

Air resistance is another form of tension that uses air which is louder than other types. Air resistance offers unlimited amounts of tension though. Each of these resistance types come with pros and cons though.

Which exercise cycle is best for home use?

We’ve rated the NordicTrack s22i Studio Cycle as our top exercise bike for home use. Along with having iFit content on the touchscreen, the s22i inclines and declines to give you an even more realistic indoor riding experience at home.