When you don’t have time to go to the fitness room or your doctor has recommended exercise after knee surgery, you can buy an exercise bike. The device will help tighten muscles, recover faster from illness, and replace bicycles for cyclists in the wintertime.
The exercise bike is a good buy for home sporting activities. On the outside, it looks like a standard bicycle, only modified. Depending on their design, exercise bikes are suitable for beginners, people who are serious athletes alike and even seniors.
Note:
Portable exercise bikes (no handlebars, just a mechanism with pedals) are, at first glance, convenient, take up little space, but do not provide serious exercise. They are primarily intended for the elderly, for use in hospitals and at home during rehabilitation. Also, users have expressed many complaints about such models. We will not consider them here.
Here are the top exercise bikes in highest demand in 2021.
The ranking is based on data from online shops, taking into account the opinions of users. We focused primarily on feedback from customers who lead active lifestyles and have extensive experience with such fitness equipment. The fitness equipment is divided into three categories (budget, semi-professional, professional), with models within each category arranged in ascending order of price.
Exercise bikes are technically complex, so choosing a quality model that won’t break after a week of use is no easy task.
As a result of a comparison of features, user feedback, the following trainers are in the top 10:
- Oxygen Satori UB HRC
- Hasttings Spider SB300
- BRADEX SF0077 Aerobic New
- DFC B3.2
- Hasttings RB400 UFO
- Clear Fit CrossPower CR 200
- Belberg BE-05
- Carbon Fitness U804
- AMMITY Ocean OB 50
- KETTLER 7627-900 Axos Cycle M
Best upright exercise bike Oxygen Satori UB HRC
* multifunctional;
* for a user up to 150 kg;
* 16-level load.
The Oxygen Satori UB HRC is the top winner of the best exercise bikes for the home. With 16 resistance levels, this model is designed for cardiorespiratory fitness, weight management and endurance training.
Available as a heavy-duty frame with an upright comfort seat filled with helium. It is possible to adjust it both vertically and horizontally.
The pedal assembly consists of three components. The flywheel weight is 10 kg, the entire structure weighs 34 kg. Transport wheels and a system for positioning the unit on uneven floors are included. The stationary handlebars are fitted with standard grips.
The console of the simulator is a touchscreen LCD display. It reflects the performance of the programmes. The number of programmes is 21, some are manually adjustable, others are heart rate dependent.
If you’re looking to stay in shape, strengthen your muscles and enjoy cycling, you can choose this comfortable exercise bike with excellent technical features. Suitable for anyone concerned about their health.
Reviews
Oxygen Satori UB HRC is one of the highest quality recumbent bikes. In terms of functionality, build reliability and materials, it is in the premium class. People of different heights and weights can train comfortably. The user-friendly, informative computer with colour monitor and touch keys makes it easy to select a mode and adjust the workload.
Pros:
* Appearance;
* price;
* Many programmes for classes.
Against:
* For women, the seat is stiff.
Best horizontal exercise bike Hasttings RB400 UFO
* horizontal;
* The seat with high backrest is more comfortable;
* for a user up to 135 kg.
The leader of the horizontal exercise bike ranking is the Hasttings RB400 UFO. Designed for a complete, comfortable workout at home. Has a magnetic load system that is electronically regulated. It works silently, the flywheel weighs 22 kg. The seat is horizontally adjustable. There are handles on the sides for easy holding during exercise.
The base is fitted with castors for easy transport. The ergometer is equipped with a computer with 24 programmes, and the LSD colour display shows all parameters.
The structure weighs 48.2 kg and comes with a 2-year warranty on this model.
Whether you’re young or old, a stylish and modern recumbent ergometer is the right choice. The comfortable seat lets you train comfortably at home and forget about the gym.
Reviews
During exercise, there is no strain on the spine, and the load is evenly distributed. With an MP3 connector, you can study music, or combine learning a foreign language with lessons. There is a special shelf-stand for a tablet or a book for those who like to read or watch a film in their spare time. There’s a built-in cardio sensor to help make your workout more efficient.
Pros:
* multifunctional;
* the model is well thought out in every detail.
Against:
* Price, dimensions and weight.
The best Belberg BE-05 portable exercise bike
* Pedal speed adjustment;
* high-quality materials;
* 1-year warranty.
The stationary recumbent bike is made from sturdy metal. The straps on the pedals lock your feet in one position, preventing them from slipping. You can use the simulator at work or at home. Thanks to its lightweight, you can easily take it with you to the countryside. When choosing a place to exercise, it is better to prefer a comfortable chair or armchair – this way you can combine training and reading or knitting.
There is a knob on the side for adjusting the pedal resistance. The metal frame withstands heavy loads, and the anti-slip coating of the legs keeps the trainer in one place. Its affordable price, simple design, and efficiency make it the portable home exercise bike ranking leader.
The device can be recommended for those who have had an injury, surgery and need a stationary bike for rehabilitation: patients and the elderly can use it to improve their health. The exercise puts a strain on the legs, improving blood circulation—a good, reliable and straightforward cardio training device.
Reviews
This model is a short, compact, easy-to-use exercise bike. The first results appear after 1-3 weeks of regular training—a reliable trainer for little money.
Pros:
* high efficiency;
* the strength of the material;
* Pedal speed adjustment;
* cheap;
* doesn’t take up much space;
* one year warranty.
Minuses:
* The spring is weak.
Choosing the right exercise bike for your home: tips and advice
Bicycle simulators help shorten the rehabilitation period after illness, keep cyclists fit, replace gym sessions and accelerate weight loss. We will tell you how to choose a stationary bike for your home. There are a few things to consider:
Device type
Manufacturers produce several fitness equipment types that differ in terms of the kind of fit and the loading system’s operating principle.
There are horizontal and vertical fit models. In the first case, the seat is flush with the pedals. These devices are suitable for the elderly, pregnant women or those who need to regain their strength and shape after a severe illness. When exercising on them, the entire load is distributed to the buttocks and leg muscles.
The upright models are similar to a classic bicycle – the saddle is mounted above the pedals. If the future owner is keen on cycling, these devices will help keep in shape during the winter months.
Load system
According to this characteristic, all devices are divided into mechanical, magnetic and electromagnetic.
When selecting whether a magnetic or belt-driven exercise bike is better, you need to determine your budget and requirements. Mechanical ones are of two types – belt-driven and inertia-driven.
The former cost less, but are bumpy and noisy. The load can be adjusted during exercise by adjusting the strap tension. These models are suitable for beginners. In inertia units, the load is adjusted by the brake pads – running is smoother, and they produce less noise, but repairs will prove more expensive.
The exercise intensity is adjusted by a magnet that brakes the flywheel on magnetic exercise bikes—the bigger the flywheel, the smoother the ride. Models with automatic adjustment are more comfortable to use. If you choose devices with manual adjustment, you will have to periodically step away from the process to change the load. These trainers are more expensive but more durable and quieter.
If you choose an electromagnetic model, you might consider a recumbent bike – the intensity is also adjusted by an electromagnet, but the training becomes more comfortable – the devices take into account the athlete’s physical condition, body mass index, heart rate, etc. These exercise bikes are either mains-powered or self-powered.
When choosing between electromagnetic, mechanical or magnetic exercise bikes, you should correctly assess your fitness level, objectives, and devices’ functionality.
For the elderly, you can choose portable models that are assembled from a compact frame and pedals with straps. You can exercise sitting in an armchair, on a sofa or a chair. The mini simulator can be taken to the cottage.
For teenagers, trained athletes, these devices will seem like a lot of fun. Whether this model is worth buying will have to be decided for yourself.
To make the right choice, you can study specific machines on the internet and ask your physiotherapist or fitness room trainer for advice.
Technical data
The DFC B3.2 upright exercise bike is an inexpensive model for teenagers.
With this trainer, you can perform a complete workout by monitoring key metrics – speed and distance covered over time, heart rate, and calories burned. Battery operated.
The exercise bike is an upright structure consisting of a seat, pedals with straps and an adjustable handlebar. Equipped with a magnetic loading system. The flywheel weight is 5 kg. The support compensators ensure that the trainer stands firmly in position even on an uneven floor.
This exercise bike is the easiest way to keep fit for anyone who can’t walk, jog or go to the gym.
Reviews
The bike is satisfactory in many respects: price, smooth running, no-frills, compactness. Easy to assemble, adjustable, quiet and space-saving. But unfortunately not suitable for obese people.
Pros:
* low price;
* for a user weighing up to 100 kg and up to 190 cm in height;
* 8-level load;
* Vertically adjustable seat;
* clear menus;
* Smooth gear shifting;
* Robust design.
Against:
* The seat is rigid and not very comfortable.
Silent magnetic Hasttings Spider SB300 with LCD display
A model with a choice of eight resistance levels to suit any task – weight loss, fitness and circulation. The seat can be raised or lowered. The handlebar angle and resistance are also manually adjustable.
The LCD display with various parameters (speed, calories burned, effort, etc.) allows you to monitor your workout and achieve the results. The frame is made of high-quality steel. The plastic parts are rubber-coated, so the trainer runs quietly and smoothly.
Optionally, the trainer is equipped with pedal straps, wheels for easy transport, a book holder, speakers with 3.5mm jack for connecting a player or smartphone for listening to music, audiobooks and watching films. The unique levelling mechanism allows the exercise bike to be placed on any floor. The structure weighs 31.9 kg.
You can easily save money on expensive gym memberships by buying one of these exercise bikes. Especially if you do it as a family.
Reviews
Hasttings Spider SB300 is a handy and versatile tool for shedding extra pounds and promoting health recommended by doctors. But the seat and pedals are not comfortable for everyone.
Pros:
* simple assembly;
* Cardio sensor on the handlebar;
* a reasonable price;
* Versatility;
* A handy bookend;
* for a user weighing up to 125 kg;
* 8-level load;
* The seat is vertically adjustable.
Against:
* Weak maximum load.
Clear Fit CrossPower CR 200 – the most stable electromagnetic model
The Clear Fit CrossPower CR 200 ergometer, with a frame made from high-quality and durable material, can support a user weighing up to 135 kg. The chair can be adjusted horizontally for maximum comfort during exercise.
The display shows the results achieved – energy expenditure, heart rate, BMI and basal metabolic rate. Simple, self-explanatory menu for selecting a programme and load level. The computer has several effective fat-burning programmes: Each user can choose the right one for him or herself.
The device can be recommended for people with spinal problems and overweight. Also suitable for elderly users with aching joints. The pedals are placed horizontally about the seat to minimise strain on the knees and feet.
Reviews
Efficient and easy to use the trainer with smooth running and switchable speeds, modes. Doesn’t take up much space in the flat and looks compact in the corner of the room.
Pros:
* Adjusting the position of the comfortable seat;
* Adjustable load;
* high-quality materials;
* There are built-in programmes;
* compact;
* Russified menu;
* high efficiency;
* There is a shelf for a book and a bottle.
Against:
* high price.
Compact mini aerobic trainer BRADEX SF0077 Aerobic New
A floor-standing model is consisting of a prefabricated frame with rubberised feet and pedals. The device is designed for full-fledged workouts in a seated position during the rehabilitation period.
The metal body with comfortable pedals, secured by rubberised straps, weighs 2.2 kg. The inertial load system is adjusted by turning a valve.
Even a woman can put it together – the kit comes with all the necessary screws, a wrench and a self-explanatory instruction manual.
If your doctor has recommended gentle exercise for your health, cardiovascular and respiratory system, you can choose this inexpensive machine.
Reviews
A simple yet effective exercise machine for rehabilitation or everyday use for a low price. Suitable for the elderly.
Pros:
* cheap;
* small size and weight;
* Can be stored under the table;
* mobile;
* you can take it to the cottage.
Against:
* small amplitude of pedal movement;
* it makes noise during operation;
* Some models have loose fasteners, check when you buy them;
* During intensive exercise, it may slip on the floor;
* there are some faulty ones.
Carbon Fitness U804 is a budget ergometer with a smooth ride.
Available as a stable frame with 6kg flywheel, comfortable seat, 16 loading levels. The operating mode can be selected via a user-friendly monochrome display with an intuitive interface. The display shows heart rate, calories burned, training time, distance and current programme.
The trainer has several types of programmes:
* 12 classics;
* 4 user-defined;
* 5 heart rate-independent;
* a fixed-load programme.
The pedals are equipped with anti-slip pads and transport wheels. The device can be recommended for people who are overweight or have bad joints.
You can tighten your muscles and improve your health if you exercise regularly.
Reviews
The best build quality model. It weighs 25 kg. Wheels are provided to roll the frame rather than carry it. Doesn’t take up much space in the flat – all it takes is to free up a small corner.
Pros:
* Complete training at home;
* Removable transport wheels;
* clear menus;
* there is a cup holder;
* seat adjustment;
* takes the pulse;
* inexpensive model.
Against:
* An outdated black and white screen instead of a modern colour LCD.
AMMITY Ocean OB 50 premium aeromagnetic
The AMMITY upright consists of a one-piece frame made of high-quality and sturdy steel, active handrails for working the back, shoulder girdle and whole-body stretching. The aeromagnetic resistance system adapts to each athlete’s pace and workout intensity. The load can be set automatically or manually by the user.
The pedals are fitted with a fixation strap. Unique footrests prevent the unit from slipping during exercise. It features a colour display with a Russified menu that allows you to customise the model, set the workload and operate the media player. The maximum load capacity is 180 kg, the weight of the trainer itself is 62 kg.
Recommended for use at home: thanks to the distributed workout, you can get your body in shape and get rid of excess weight in a month. If you have extensive training experience, you can also choose this professional-level model.
Reviews
A functional and useful trainer can be adapted to any type of workout and works specific muscle groups and the entire body. The seat adjustment makes exercising more comfortable.
Pros:
* Availability of automatic programmes;
* Adjustable seat;
* Multifunctional colour display;
* heart rate sensor;
* professional model;
* 1 year warranty.
Against:
* weight;
* very expensive.
KETTLER 7627-900 Axos Cycle M – a simple and lightweight model with an upright fit
The miniature steel-body multi-gym weighs just 29 kg. The saddle is height-adjustable, and the locking straps on the pedals prevent your foot from slipping. The display is easy to operate and informative: you can select six automatic programmes and monitor your calorie burn, and distance travelled.
The handlebar has a built-in heart rate monitor to monitor your heart rate. Removable wheels are provided for easy transport. Suitable for people weighing no more than 110 kg.
If you need a bit of body shaping and muscle toning, look no further than this model. The trainer acts on the primary muscle group and improves blood circulation. It is affordable.
Reviews
A reliable exercise bike that has been running smoothly for several years. The functionality, features and equipment are entirely in keeping with the price.
Pros:
* light;
* integrated heart rate sensor;
* Seat height adjustment;
* Effective;
* 2-year warranty.
Against:
* Cannot be connected to a computer;
* runs on batteries.
Conclusion
When deciding which stationary bike is best for your home, you can go for the leaders in the rankings:
– Among upright ergometers, the Oxygen Satori UB HRC has the best performance and supports 150kg. The mode and programme can be selected via the touch panel on the LCD display.
– Among the horizontal models, the Hasttings RB400 UFO offers useful functionality and efficiency. Designed for athletes weighing up to 135kg. Suitable for all ages – the pedals, positioned opposite the saddle, reduce strain on the spine.
– The most compact Belberg BE-05 portable mini trainer. Can be enjoyed for ease of assembly, adjustment, use – there are 2 pedals on the steel frame. The inertial load system reduces noise and ensures smooth movements during torsion.
Additional features such as calorie consumption analysis, heart rate measurement, heart rate monitor and the ability to connect an mp3 player increase the equipment’s cost, but help make exercising more efficient and comfortable.