Best Exercise Bikes 2024 – Expert Tested & Reviewed

Last Update: March 19, 2024

After many saddle and handlebar post adjustments, tightened toe cages, and sore quads, we are happy to bring you our Best Exercise Bikes for 2024. Cycling indoors offers a great alternative to biking outdoors. One of the biggest challenges of outdoor cycling is sharing the road with cars or the path with other bikers and pedestrians. Eliminate all the fuss with indoor biking! Learn everything you need about flywheels, pedals, saddles, and more.

Here’s Our List Of The Best Exercise Bikes for 2024

• Best Exercise Bike 2024: NordicTrack S22i Studio Cycle Bike
• Best Exercise Bike Runner-Up: Bowflex Velocore Exercise Bike
• Best Exercise Bike Workout: Carol Bike
• Best Exercise Bike with Netflix: Sole SB1200 Exercise Bike
• Best Exercise Bike For Beginners: Freebeat LIT Bike
• Best Exercise Bike with Screen: NordicTrack S27i Studio Cycle Bike
• Best Exercise Bike without Screen: Bowflex C6 Exercise Bike
• Best Exercise Bike For Garage Gyms: Concept2 BikeERG
• Best Air Bike: AssaultBike Pro X
• Best Rear Wheel Exercise Bike: Echelon EX-5S Exercise Bike
• Best Exercise Bike Studio Classes: Peloton Bike+
• Best Exercise Bike For Taller Riders: MYX II Exercise Bike

Best Exercise Bike 2024: NordicTrack S22i Studio Cycle Bike

The NordicTrack S22i is our best exercise bike for 2024. Unlike other stationary bikes, it has incline and decline capabilities, so you really feel like you are slogging up those hills. The S22i has great smart features and functionality to please outdoor cyclists moving indoors and indoor cyclists looking for a unique ride. The NordicTrack S22i is compatible with iFIT’s impressive fitness platform for an even more immersive ride paired with its 22” touchscreen.

The NordicTrack S22i is from the brand’s commercial studio bike line, the only stationary bikes with incline and decline abilities. The -10% to 20% incline range makes it feel like you are riding the terrain on the screen. A DC motor is mounted on the rear of the bike, powering this incline up and down. An incline or decline affects not only the angle of the bike but the amount of resistance applied to the flywheel. Inclining the bike increases the resistance proportional to the steepness of the grade while declining the bike reduces resistance. The S22i is one of the best all-around exercise bikes, but it will appeal particularly to cyclists trying to replicate their outdoor rides.

iFIT is a premium fitness platform with globally filmed fitness content. The S22i’s 22-inch touchscreen is built for viewing iFIT content. The first 30 days of iFIT are free, but a monthly or yearly subscription is required afterward to continue accessing most of the S22i’s content. There are classes filmed on every continent. With one subscription, you can access the biking and non-biking content. The 22” screen pivots for off-bike viewing. When you wrap up your next ride, you can hop on the mat for strength training or a yoga session. iFIT can enhance your entire workout routine.

The NordicTrack S22i has 40 levels of silent magnetic resistance. While this may not sound as impressive as the 100 levels found on Peloton and Bowflex bikes, the S22i has more variability in resistance than 40 levels. The incline adjustment acts as a modifier on each of the resistance levels for more training variability. The flywheel is 32 lbs, making the ride fluid with each pedal stroke. There are two 3 lb dumbbells included for a bit of upper-body resistance. These dumbbells are not textured, so they don’t have the best grip for sweaty hands. Yet, we are happy they are included at no extra cost.

Because of its incline abilities and large screen, the NordicTrack S22i is quite a heavy bike. When lifted by its rear stabilizer, it can be rolled around on its two front-mounted wheels. Its strong build keeps it stable for the most intense workouts. The saddle is adjustable forward/backward and up/down, while the handlebars can only be adjusted up and down. The pedals are hybrid with SPD clips and toe cages. The S22i is a well-built and uniquely designed exercise bike.

Read Our Full Review Of The NordicTrack S22i Studio Cycle Bike Here

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Best Exercise Bike Runner-Up: Bowflex VeloCore Exercise Bike

What our top two bikes have in common is their ability to add something new and unique to their studio bikes. The VeloCore is our Best Exercise Bike Runner-Up because of its intriguing leaning mode. This mode allows indoor cyclists to lean from side to side, introducing core and balance training to the mix. The VeloCore feels like an arcade game, which motivates me to ride it even more.

Most users will recognize the stop/resistance knob mounted to the VeloCore’s frame, but a mysterious second button is just above it. Pushing down on the button unlocks the VeloCore’s leaning abilities. Cyclists can lean from side to side to engage their core and train their balance. To lock the bike back into place, simply pull up on the red and gray button until it clicks. It takes some getting used to, but the leaning mode is perfectly safe and secure. The front and rear stabilizers maintain perfect contact with the floor as you sway back and forth.

Unlock the VeloCore Bike’s true potential with a JRNY subscription. The subscription is free for the first two months. Then, exercisers will need to pay monthly to continue accessing JRNY’s awesome platform. We love JRNY because it provides a good mix of training and entertainment content. JRNY gives you access to entertainment streaming apps like Netflix and Hulu as you ride. You can take an outdoor class, a studio ride, or cruise to that next episode you have been meaning to watch. JRNY’s platform may not be as thorough as its competitors, but it is making strides in that direction. It is also more affordable than the competition.

The VeloCore Bike has two different console options–a 22” or 16” screen. Either would deliver a good viewing experience, but our testing suggests screens over 22 inches deliver a cinematic experience. The rest of the specs for the two bikes are almost identical, save for their product weight and footprint. They have 100 levels of magnetic resistance, plenty of adjustment potential for training. There is also a device rack beneath the screen for another viewing option. Thus, if you choose not to subscribe to JRNY, your indoor cycling is not over. The VeloCore bike is versatile and unique, offering smart features if you want them but still granting a great ride if you don’t.

Read Our Full Review Of The Bowflex VeloCore Exercise Bike Here

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Best Exercise Bike Workout: Carol Bike

With AI technology, the Carol Bike tailors to your fitness level and increases it in as little as 8 weeks. This bike is backed by research and has an array of workouts unmatched by other exercise bikes. In addition to its native content, the Carol Bike allows you to download many third-party apps to import your favorite non-Carol rides. It was a no-brainer that the Carol Bike earned our award for the best exercise bike workout.

Time constraints are the biggest barriers to exercise for working adults. There are so many other things vying for our attention that it’s easy to put exercising on the back burner. Even if you can spare a few minutes, what can you realistically accomplish? The Carol Bike is designed to give you the most effective workout possible in only a few minutes. For less than 15 minutes per day, you can train in a REHIT program that is proven to increase your fitness in as little as 8 weeks. One of the most exciting benefits is an improvement to your VO2 max. Your VO2 max is a measurement of how much oxygen your body can use in 1 minute per kilogram of body weight. The more, the better.

The Carol bike’s REHIT workouts are HIIT workouts reimagined. With their key workout consisting of only 2 x 20 second maximum effort sprints, you’ll be done in no time. The hardest part about these workouts is learning to dig deep and give your maximum effort during these short bouts. Fortunately, the AI controls the resistance, so you just have to focus on pedaling as hard as you can. As you get stronger, the AI will up your resistance. It will decrease it if things get too hard to sustain. Carol also has a wide selection of other workouts to supplement your training between your 2 to 3 REHIT sessions per week.

Unlike other exercise bikes, you aren’t locked into Carol’s training format. They also allow you to download apps from Peloton, Zwift, Kinomap, and even more popular cycling apps. The AI will hand the resistance control over to you so you can follow along with these workouts. Or, you can choose how many watts you want to aim for and have the resistance automatically adjust to keep you in range. If you need a more relaxing ride, check out the entertainment apps from Netflix and more.

Because the tablet isn’t a fully integrated touchscreen like other bikes, you have more options, but you could also run into connectivity issues. Make sure the tablet Bluetooth is on and all wires are connected if you run into issues.

When you first set up your Carol bike, you can schedule an introductory call with someone from the Carol Bike team. This meeting teaches you how to use the bike and how to reach your goals with it.

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Best Exercise Bike with Netflix: Sole SB1200 Exercise Bike

If you don’t want to be tied into a subscription but still want to watch entertainment content and access training classes, check out the Sole SB1200. This exercise bike is for the cyclist who want the freedom to choose how they train every day with very few restrictions.

Not everyone wants to take studio classes nor does everyone want to watch TV as they train. The Sole SB1200 is the perfect compromise, allowing exercisers to do either. For no additional fee, you can access your Netflix account or watch the Sole+ training content on the SB1200. If the built-in content options aren’t enough for you, screen mirror your phone or tablet for even more fun.

The SB1200 has speakers and Bluetooth audio for a customized listening experience. You can also pair a Bluetooth heart rate monitor. The 100 magnetic resistance levels make it easy to keep up with a Peloton workout if you desire. You could also try Zwift or Kinomap with the SB1200. The only downside is the lag between making an adjustment to the resistance or changing your pedaling cadence and the metric that appears on screen. It isn’t as instantaneous as other bikes I’ve tried.

Sole makes equipment with sturdy frames. To back up their quality construction, the SB1200’s frame is covered by a lifetime warranty. The SB1200 is suitable to a large range of users. The saddle and handlebar adjustments are some of the easiest I’ve tried. The screen doesn’t get stuck and weigh down the handlebars like many other exercise bikes.

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Best Exercise Bike For Beginners: Freebeat Lit Bike

The Freebeat Lit Bike is great for beginners. It is great motivation with its incredibly engaging classes. I have yet to encounter a higher energy platform than what Freebeat offers. Its gamified cycling is enough to make you forget you are working out. It just feels fun! The Freebeat Lit Bike comes in four different colors to fit into almost any design scheme. Beginners and seasoned riders will find something new and exciting in the Freebeat Lit Bike.

I am typically drawn to more rugged outdoorsy exercise experiences, but the Freebeat wowed me. Riding the Freebeat feels like riding Rainbow Road on Mario Kart or gumdrop-unicorn-land from your childhood dreams. Even when I get onto the Freebeat, intending to take it easy, the high-energy instructors and classes draw me into a hard workout, and I don’t even notice it happening! The subscription is definitely worth having, as it transforms indoor cycling.

The classes are synced to the music beat. You have the option of riding along to the ‘easy’ RPM or aiming for the ‘hard’ double-time RPM. The bike gives you the percentage of how accurately you hit the beat, bumping you up higher on the leaderboard the more accurate you are. If you are on the beat for longer periods of time, you rack up combo multipliers to boost your score even further. There is also a game, similar to Guitar Hero, that encourages you to hit the notes as they soar toward you by pedaling. I absolutely love it, and if you are looking for gamified exercise, you will too.

The bike comes in ‘Moonbow Beige,’ ‘Snowpeak White,’ ‘Space Black,’ and ‘Aurora Pink.’ I was fortunate enough to test out the Aurora Pink Lit Bike. (Is it too cliche to say my experience was lit?) The bike is very sturdy, which is necessary for how much you will be in and out of the saddle and dancing in your seat. The Lit Bike holds up to the intense and fun workouts. The touchscreen is 21.5”, so you get a crystal clear view of the instructors in the studio. The Freebeat Lit Bike is an enthralling exercise bike.

Read Our Full Review Of The Freebeat LIT Bike Here

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Best Exercise Bike with Screen: NordicTrack S27i Studio Cycle Bike

The NordicTrack S27i’s touchscreen takes the cake for Best Exercise Bike with Screen. At 27”, the smart HD touchscreen is the largest screen on this list. It is my personal opinion that exercise bike screens cannot get any bigger than this without creating a worse viewing experience. If you want the best of the best when it comes to your training content viewing, the NordicTrack S27i is it.

The NordicTrack S27i has a 27” smart HD touchscreen. The screen displays iFIT’s premium content. Without a subscription to the premium fitness service, the screen shows only a few featured classes and the manual activity screen. This exercise bike really shines when used with an iFIT subscription. iFIT films all over the world, so you can explore sunny, tropical climes even when the weather is not suitable for outdoor riding.

The large touchscreen is not the only standout feature on the S27i. It is also one of the only bikes with incline and decline settings. The range is -10% to 20%, replicating the outdoor terrain seen on the screen. It has a DC motor mounted on the rear stabilizer that powers the incline and decline. The resistance adjusts to make riding up and downhill seem more lifelike, meaning the uphills are harder while the downhills are easier. In addition to the incline, the S27i has 40 silent magnetic resistance levels. Cyclists will be impressed with the S27i’s training capabilities.

All of these bold features require a sturdy base to support them. It may take a few rides to get used to the steep grades of the S27i, but the bike will keep you stable. The front and rear stabilizers ensure the bike does not wobble. The hybrid pedals have toe cages and SPD cleats. The flywheel is a hefty 32 lbs, so each pedal stroke is fluid. The bike is heavier than its competitors, but its robust features warrant the extra weight. The NordicTrack S27i can be lifted by its rear stabilizer to engage the front wheels (just be mindful of the giant screen).

Read Our Full Review Of The NordicTrack S27i Studio Cycle Bike Here

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Best Exercise Bike without Screen: Bowflex C6 Exercise Bike

The Bowflex C6 Exercise Bike wins the Best Exercise Bike without Screen award for obvious reasons–it has no screen. Exercise equipment from every brand has become more and more encumbered by high-tech features. Unfortunately, this often comes at an added expense to consumers. Not only must you pay for expensive equipment, but now you have to pay monthly, or the equipment isn’t even usable! Not so with the Bowflex C6 Bike!

William Cowper’s poem turned saying states, “Variety is the spice of life.” The C6 bike allows for variety. Though Bowflex has its own subscription service (JRNY), the C6 is openly advertised as a great bike to use with Peloton. I did just that when I tested the C6, though I also tested the JRNY content. The C6 has 100 resistance levels which match well to the Peloton resistance levels, so you can follow along with the trainer’s recommendations. The C6 has a simple LCD console, but you can place a phone or tablet in its device holder for viewing JRNY or third-party content. Contrarily, the lack of smart features built into the C6 actually increases the bike’s utility over its smarter competitors.

Bowflex generously includes a few extras with the purchase of the C6 Bike. It comes with two 3 lb dumbbells and a heart rate monitor armband. If you do want to try a subscription service, you can try the 2-month free trial of JRNY gifted with the purchase of the bike. The pedals are hybrid, so you don’t have to worry about replacing them regardless of whether you use SPD cleats or regular athletic shoes with toe cages. This bike appeals to a variety of cyclists with its unrestrictive features.

Read Our Full Review Of The Bowflex C6 Exercise Bike Here

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Best Exercise Bike For Garage Gyms: Concept2 BikeERG

The Concept2 BikeERG is a staple in garage gyms. It may not be the only piece of Concept2 equipment exercisers own. Concept2 has a knack for convincing users of their equipments’ superior build. A lot of it comes down to the impressive flywheel. The BikeERG is an amalgamation of a studio bike and an air bike. If you want a bike you can wheel in and out of your garage and onto your driveway, the Concept2 BikeERG is a top contender.

The Concept2 flywheel provides air resistance, but it isn’t as strong of a breeze as you get from most air bikes. That’s not to say the resistance isn’t powerful. The resistance can be changed with the use of the 10-level damper. The harder you pedal, the stronger the resistance becomes. By increasing the damper’s level, you get more resistance at a lower RPM. It’s not as easy to stand up on the Concept2 BikeERG, but it is doable if you increased the damper level and maintain a high cadence.

The BikeERG weighs only 68 lbs. It is very easy to lift and relocate using its two front transport wheels. Despite its light weight, the BikeERG does not feel unstable during exercise. Most users will find staying in the saddle more comfortable, but it is okay for standing, too. If you like to ride your stationary bike outside in the driveway or on a patio, the BikeERG is a great option. It is not a pain to roll in and out of your garage or home. The frame is aluminum with steel feet.

Concept2 is known for its trustworthy PM5 monitor. It is remarkably accurate and recalibrates regularly to appease the metric fiends. The BikeERG is also compatible with the ERGData app, which has daily workouts and a social community. If you are looking for an exercise bike community, Concept2 delivers. There is an active online forum, and the app has plenty of competitive features. Fortunately, there is no additional cost to access the app.

Read Our Full Review Of The Concept2 BikeERG Here

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Best Air Bike: AssaultBike Pro X

When I think air bike, I think Assault Fitness. Sure, there are tons of other popular air bike brands, but AssaultFitness does a great job of making me suffer. Plus, it has a belt drive, which feels smoother and sounds slightly quieter. The AssaultBike Pro X may be a better option for users under 6 feet tall compared to bikes like the Rogue Echo Bike. We really liked it for exercisers of average height (about 5’2” to 6’2”).

The AssaultBike Pro X is the midrange option from Assault Fitness’s air bike lineup. It’s nearly half the price of the AssaultBike Elite, but its quality is about the same. This makes the Pro X a great deal. The steel frame is 2mm thick like the Elite, and its weight limit is 330 lbs, only 20 lbs less than the Elite. The Pro X has a commercial-grade construction with a 7-year frame warranty and 3-year non-wear parts. Unfortunately, labor is not covered by a warranty.

I’m 5’4”, so the AssaultBike Pro X felt more comfortable for me to use than other air bikes. The saddle felt a little close to the handlebars, and all of our reviews had to push it all the way back. Despite this one strange detail, the geometry of the Pro X felt much more comfortable than other air bikes I’ve tested.

A belt drive makes the Pro X quieter and smoother than the AssaultBike Elite and other air bikes that use a chain drive. You might not like this drivetrain if you prefer a more rugged feel, but I really liked it. The Pro X is still loud enough to wake up anyone sleeping, but it’s not as grating to listen to. I could hold a conversation or listen to music more easily.

The air resistance is plenty powerful, but it’s more beginner-friendly than many air bikes due to its smaller fan blades. However, I don’t want to lead anyone astray with the impression that this bike is easy. It’s definitely not. The resistance is unlimited, increasing when you increase your speed and force. The Pro X does not come with a windscreen, but a magnetic cover can be purchased separately. I wish it came with the screen. Consider adding the accessory if you don’t want the wind in your hair as you train.

Read Our Full Review Of The AssaultBike Pro X Here

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Best Rear Flywheel Exercise Bike: Echelon EX-5S Exercise Bike

The Echelon EX-5S is our choice for Best Rear Flywheel Exercise Bike. It is a great affordable alternative to Peloton with its black and red aesthetics and similar studio classes. The Echelon Exercise Bike’s rear-mounted flywheel keeps it out of the danger zone where you might drip sweat.

Rear-mounted flywheels serve one main purpose: to keep the flywheel out of your sweat. The relocation of the flywheel also creates a unique and modern exercise bike silhouette. The Echelon EX-5S Exercise Bike has a fairly compact footprint, making it a great choice for shared spaces like a living room. Overall, a rear-mounted flywheel does not affect an exercise bike’s performance compared to traditional front-mounted flywheel bikes.

The EX-5S is ideal for cyclists committed to a subscription program. Of all the exercise bikes I have tested, this one has the fewest abilities without a subscription. Echelon even makes you purchase a subscription plan when buying the bike. You can choose to pay monthly or annually. Though you can cancel your subscription, the EX-5S is nearly unusable without it. The resistance will not change nor is there a manual exercise screen without an active subscription.

That said, Echelon’s classes are highly reminiscent of Peloton’s studio classes. They have similar aesthetics and layouts, including the incorporation of trendy music. The classes are fun and motivating. A bonus is that the bike and membership costs are less than what Peloton charges. An Echelon membership grants you access to more than the studio classes. You can take a scenic ride or hop off your bike for strength and yoga training.

The design of the Echelon EX-5S Bike is quite comfortable. I love the ergonomic shape of the handlebars. The straight bar portion of the bullhorn handlebars is flattened, which feels nice to grip or rest your arms on while using the aero bars. The saddle is pretty comfortable, so you don’t have to worry about replacing it with another seat. There are front-facing speakers and Bluetooth audio for two different listening options. Other comfort features include a device rack, two water bottle holders, and hybrid (SPD and toe cage) pedal

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Best Exercise Bike Studio Classes: Peloton Bike+

No Exercise Bike is more recognizable than the Peloton Bike or the Bike+. Though the bike itself is great, it is the Peloton studio classes that beat the competition, which is why we have awarded it Best Exercise Bike Studio Classes. The classes are fun and energetic. They live up to the hype and then some.

Peloton classes bring the heat and the energy. They are designed around the trainer playlists. The incorporation of music into the workout is so much fun and incredibly motivating. Peloton trainers are top-tier instructors. The Peloton Bike+ complements the premium fitness platform very well, but I admit it’s perfectly feasible to follow Peloton classes on other studio bikes. The 24” touchscreen display is one of the best exercise bike screens as far as quality and clear graphics go. It is awfully convenient to have Peloton’s content blown up so big right in front of you.

The Bike+ has an edge over its younger sibling, the original Peloton Bike. The Bike+ has been upgraded with an automatic trainer following feature. This allows the Bike+ to adjust to the middle of the recommended resistance range without your interference. It is convenient for getting a hands-free workout. As someone who can be a little paranoid about following the trainer’s exact instructions, I really like this feature.

The Peloton Bike+ has 100 magnetic resistance levels. This makes the bike quiet and challenging. Despite a recall on the original Peloton Bike, we have not had issues with the Bike or the Bike+. The saddle and handlebar posts have enough adjustability for a wide range of cyclists to find a comfortable fit. The Bike+ is great for those committed to the Peloton platform.

Read Our Full Review Of The Peloton Bike+ Here

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Best Exercise Bike For Taller Riders: MYX II Exercise Bike

The MYX II Exercise Bike has a maximum height capacity of 6’8”. This is one of the tallest height allowances we have seen on an exercise bike, making it a shoo-in for our Best Exercise Bike for Taller Riders award. The MYX II Bike offers premium training content and unique aesthetics to stand out in the exercise bike market.

The MYX II Exercise Bike falls under the Beach Body (BODi) brand. Though MYX is newer, their bikes are based on StarTrac bike designs, a much more seasoned brand. The bike’s build is quite sturdy. It accommodates users from 4’11” to 6’8”, quite an impressive height range. The weight capacity is 350 lbs, higher than most other bikes’ cap of 300 lbs. The saddle is comfortable, but the handlebars are very slippery. If you sweat a lot (like I do), the MYX handlebars may be uncomfortable. The MYX II comes in white or black. Both colorways have navy accents. In a sea of black and red bikes, the MYX bike stands out!

The flywheel is a hefty 41 lbs, creating a great pedaling experience. This heavy flywheel pairs well with the friction resistance, which uses a leather pad to brake the flywheel. The other studio bikes on this list have magnetic resistance, for the most part. The benefit of friction resistance over magnetic resistance is the ability to increase the resistance to as heavy as you want. This is great for cyclists who are very experienced and find the upper limits of magnetic resistance bikes not quite enough.

The MYX II has a 21.5” touchscreen. The quality is decent. The speakers are not front-facing, so it muffles the sound a bit. The MYX is Bluetooth, so you can pair your headphones for a different listening experience. You can access BODi training content from the screen with an active subscription. The classes are a mainly studio classes, and there are also off-bike classes. The screen pivots nearly 360 degrees for viewing off-bike training content. Because the bike uses friction resistance, no “level” is associated with the resistance intensity. The MYX bike relies on heart rate and conveniently includes a heart rate armband for training alongside the instructor’s heart rate zone recommendations.

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Factors to Consider When Finding The Best Exercise Bike

What type of exercise bike do you want?

There are many different types of exercise bikes, including studio, upright, recumbent, and air bikes. Some bikes fit into a category of their own, like the Concept2 BikeERG. The exercise bike categories come with different pros and cons. We have mainly highlighted studio bikes to reflect their popularity and exciting features, but you may find a different type of bike works better for you.

Studio Bikes

These bikes are designed to most accurately resemble outdoor cycling, though they receive some competition from indoor cycling, which attaches an outdoor bike to an indoor trainer. The benefit of spin bikes is their features. The bikes on this list have magnetic resistance, belt drives, large touchscreens, and even incline/decline features. They are great for cyclists wanting to train alongside a spin-style class or mimic their outdoor training. Many studio bikes allow you to ride in an upright or more traditional, forward-leaning position.

A studio bike like the S22i is a great option for athletes who need an outdoor or boutique fitness alternative.

Upright Bikes

An upright indoor bike reduces the amount of forward lean you need to grab the handles. Many studio bikes can be oriented into this position. However, upright exercise bikes tend to offer more comfort features than studio bikes. They may have vertical handles near the saddle and a wider seat. This type of exercise bike suits individuals torn between the comfort of recumbent cycling and the sportiness of studio bikes.

Recumbent Bikes

These bikes offer the most comfortable sitting position with a lower seat that supports your trunk. These bikes are great for individuals who have spine or mobility issues. The pedals sit in front of you rather than underneath you, which allows you to generate more force. These bikes are typically targeted toward older individuals, but they can also be a great fit for other athletes. They resemble road or mountain bikes the least. However, there are outdoor recumbent bikes. If you already train outdoors on a recumbent bike, this type of indoor bike may complement your training the most.

The NordicTrack R35 is a great bike for users who need back support and want a more relaxed posture.

Air Bikes

Don’t forget about your arms! Despite the addition of light weights into studio bike workouts, indoor cycling typically neglects the arms. Fortunately, one type of exercise bike includes them: the air bike. These bikes have moveable arms that help you generate more force. For this reason, they are great bikes for a full-body workout. The air resistance provides unlimited resistance levels and a breeze, which is great for stuffy garage gyms.

Air bikes are hardcore machines, and the AssaultBike Elite will kick your butt.

What specs or build should the bike have?

Frames

Look for a steel frame for a sturdy exercise bike. Aluminum components are fine, as it is included on several very well-built bikes on this list. Two features to look for in a sturdy bike besides the material are the weight and the stabilizers. A heavier indoor bike will feel secure for most cyclists, though it may make the bike harder to move. Substantial front and rear stabilizers are also reassuring of a bike’s stability, lowering the likelihood of tipping or wobbling.

The Concept2 BikeERG has a lightweight aluminum frame, but it’s incredibly well-built and sturdy.

Handles

Many exercise bikes have multiple handles for various hand positions. Deciding what grip suits your needs the most can help you pick the right bike. We like to have a lot of grip options on a bike, so we can switch up our positions when we get fatigued in one or need to train differently. Fortunately, uncomfortable handles are not make-or-break for all bikes. Many exercise bike handles can be swapped out for a different pair. If you want to do this, ensure the exercise bike you choose is compatible with most standard road bike handles.

The Bowflex VeloCore has tons of handle options to accommodate its leaning feature.

Pedals

Like handles, pedals can often be replaced. Again, ensure the exercise bike’s compatibility with other bike pedals before purchasing. Fortunately, many exercise bikes come with hybrid pedals, allowing users to train with SPD cycling shoes or any athletic shoe while strapped into toe cages. Some bikes, like the Peloton bikes, have unique cleats, preventing cyclists from using the usual SPD shoes. Consider what type of pedals you would like. Toe cages or cleats allow you to pull and push on the pedals. Flat pedals only make use of the downstroke. Additionally, consider the cost of buying different pedals or new cycling shoes.

Outside of the pedal itself, indoor cyclists should also consider the length of the crank arm. This length affects the distance your legs are from each other, called the q factor. Too wide or narrow of a q factor can lead to knee pain and discomfort. Alignment of the hip, knee, and ankle joints leads to a more comfortable riding experience. 150mm is a good starting point for finding a comfortable and appropriate q factor for your body. Fortunately, indoor cyclists do not have to worry about the aerodynamics of outdoor cycling with wind resistance.

The SB1200’s pedals have SPD clips and flat pedals which is my preferred default style, but you can replace them with your favorite pedals.

Saddles

Saddles often provide the biggest complaint for new cyclists. Firm, narrow seats are difficult to get used to. To avoid saddle soreness, you may need to consider padded bike shorts, a bike cover, or a wider, softer saddle. Many exercise bike saddles will be replaceable with road bike seats. As with the handlebars and pedals, contemplate what additional components you may need to purchase to upgrade your bike. We do our best to accurately reflect the experience of using the components these bikes come with for your convenience.

The Freebeat LIT bike’s saddle detects if the rider is seated or not.

Flywheels and Drive Trains

Inexperienced indoor cyclists may not consider these components of a bike’s build, but they are very important, as they typically cannot be replaced. The flywheel or fan turns as the cyclist pedals. A heavier flywheel generally leads to a smoother ride. Very heavy flywheels can make lower bike resistances too hard for beginners, so the heaviest flywheel on the market isn’t necessarily the best. 30 to 40 lbs tend to be appropriate for flywheels.

An exercise bike may have two types of drive: chain or belt. Chain drives are louder and require more maintenance, but they tend to be cheaper. Many novice and intermediate cyclists will already be accustomed to this drive. We tend to prefer belt drives for their lower maintenance and quieter performance. Belt drives feel smoother while pedaling. Yet, chain-driven bikes like the AssaultBike Elite are still great and well-performing.

The Echelon EX-5S uses a belt drive for smooth and quiet pedaling.

What type of features do you need?

The fun of choosing an exercise bike doesn’t stop with basic bike components. It continues on with exciting extras.

Screens

Many exercise bikes have adopted HD touchscreens for smart training and content viewing. A touchscreen increases a bike’s cost, particularly if the screen is large. However, a touchscreen may be necessary if you plan to train alongside on-demand or live classes. Bikes with screens often have smart training features that training with content on TV or tablet cannot provide. Hands-free training is very convenient as the trainer takes control of your bike resistance, so you can focus on the ride and not making these adjustments. In addition to an increased price, a large screen may prevent the adjustability of the handlebars as the two are often attached.

The NordicTrack S27i has the largest screen we have seen on an exercise bike.

Resistance

Exercise bikes don’t all have the same resistance. There is air, magnetic, and friction resistance. Magnetic resistance is typically found on higher-tech bikes as it can be assigned a number that a trainer can reference for following along with a class. Magnetic resistance is very quiet, making it a great choice for exercisers trying not to disturb others in their household. Friction and air resistance have nearly unlimited levels of intensity. They are harder to quantify on machine consoles, and some bikes may be restricted to heart rate or perceived exertion for assigning intensity. These types of resistance are great for experienced cyclists as they provide a constant challenge. However, they will require more maintenance. Air resistance may require the fan to be cleaned, while friction resistance requires the replacement of the friction pads used to brake the flywheel.

The Carol Bike has AI magnetic resistance that pushes you to your limit.

Do you want premium training content?

Peloton has attracted a large crowd to indoor cycling with its premium classes. Yet, this type of training adds a monthly fee that may be unnecessary for some users. Even if you decide to train with on-demand or live classes, free classes are available on many apps and YouTube channels. The bonus of Peloton, iFIT, and JRNY is their compatibility with the bike’s smart features. Everyone will have to decide for themselves what type of training is most suitable. Not all bikes maintain their functionality without an active subscription. If there is a chance that you won’t be a subscriber long-term, pick a bike that has more free features.

The MYX Bodi Bike requires a subscription to use the onscreen content.

Bottom Line – Best Exercise Bikes 2024

Exercise bikes have a lot of components to consider. A good pick is one that can be customized to your needs, whether that is seat and handlebar adjustments or swapping them out for new components. The right exercise bike will accommodate your body and training needs. Indoor cycling breeds a sense of community unmatched by almost any other indoor cardio equipment. Some brands cultivate larger communities which you can join through premium fitness platforms or train solo. With so many options to choose from, there is an exercise bike for pretty much everyone!

How We Test Exercise Bikes

One of the most important things we do with exercise bikes compared to other equipment is measure. We measure the saddle, the reach, the inseam length, and anything else that might help you decide if this exercise bike is right for you. Then, we also use the bike just as you would. We try all of the various content options and try out every feature. Other key features that we analyze are the difficulty of the resistance, how hard the bike is to move around, and how comfortable it feels to use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bike for a home workout?

To find the best exercise bike for a home workout, consider how you would like to use it, its storability and portability, and price. Cardio equipment does not have to become an obstacle to live around or an expensive coat rack. The best exercise bike for home is one you are excited to use regularly. It improves your space instead of cluttering it.

Exercise bikes have smaller footprints than treadmills, allowing them to be used in smaller spaces. The right one will complement your home. If you plan to train in front of a TV, the right bike might be lightweight without a screen. If your bike is in a home office or basement, it might have a screen, so you don’t have to relocate a TV or bring your phone or tablet. If you plan to ride it in a different place than it will be stored, the bike should have transport wheels and a light enough frame that you are not discouraged by the task of relocating it. Lastly, it should be a bike that fits your budget, considering the initial cost and ongoing subscriptions or maintenance.

What is the best exercise bike for losing weight?

This is no easy question to answer! On the one hand, the bike that helps you burn the most calories could be the answer. In that case, an air bike is a great tool as it engages the upper and lower body in exercise. On the other hand, a bike that keeps you motivated and going longer might be even better. This could be an immersive bike like the NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike or an energetic, fun bike like the FreeBeat Lit Bike. There are a lot of factors involved in weight loss. Overall, the best route is to develop a routine you enjoy and can stick to for the long term.

What happens if you use an exercise bike every day?

If you exercise every day without rest, you might get burnt out or injured. Sure, many people bike every single day. They likely vary their workout intensity from day to day to go hard or recover. This is feasible if the exerciser works their way up slowly to that intensity. Just like any other exercise, too much too soon spells danger.

With appropriate rest, a regular (or daily) exercise biking routine can improve cardiovascular fitness, leg strength, and leg power. It can improve aerobic or anaerobic fitness–or both! The outcome will largely depend on if you bike for a long time at an easy intensity, short, fast intervals, or a combination of the two. Heavy resistance can help build muscular strength for toned legs. Healthy bikers remember to engage their cores to protect their neck and back. This can build core strength and endurance. There are so many benefits to indoor cycling.

Regular cyclists should remember that cycling is a low-impact activity. While this can be easier on the body, it can also reduce bone density. Cyclists should consider incorporating weight-bearing activities into their exercise regimen. Besides air bikes, exercise bikes put less load on the upper body. Cyclists could benefit from supplementing their rides with upper body training. Thus, indoor cycling is a great foundation for a full-body fitness program.

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