Although cycling is an excellent way to exercise, cyclists may have to make compromises when faced with seasonal changes or unpredictable weather. No matter the weather outside, exercise bikes can be a great way of getting your work done. They can be used all year, which makes them an excellent option for keeping to a regular workout program. An indoor exercise bike is a great option if you want a quick and convenient way to get the same results, no matter what the weather. You will find the best exercise bikes with many features that allow you to train the same muscles as a regular bicycle, and can easily transition back outdoors without any hassle.
Although I love my roadbike, I wouldn’t be the same cyclist without my home exercise bike. Indoor cycling on my stationary bicycle keeps me active, whether I’m training for a century ride during the week or just getting up in the morning. It’s easy to ride for an hour every day, and I feel great doing it. To find the best indoor exercise bike for me, I spent a lot time trying out different models.
Every cyclist is different. Each one has their own unique needs. It all comes down to the space you have, the type of riding you do, and the budget you have. This article will help guide you in choosing the right bike for you. Each of these bikes have been tested by me, either as anecdotally, or in a complete review. In one instance, I used a very similar model.
Are you looking for a list devoted exclusively to Peloton style bikes? Check out our list for Best alternatives to PelotonThis option has some overlap with those here.
Bowflex
The content of the screen is the most important thing you can control when selecting the best exercise bike for you. You can only train with videos from certain exercise bikes. Although this is not necessarily a problem, there are many great spin classes and endurance-building sessions on the exercise bikes. However, it is possible for some videos to become a bit stale over time.
Bowflex Velocore bikes offer a lot. The bike is modular and you can bring your own shoes, seats and weights as well as tablets. The handlebars of the Bowflex indoor cycling exercise bicycle were able to support Zoom meetings on multiple occasions. You can have a challenging workout regardless of your level of skill. The tilt system also allows you to work your core and legs. This is a fantastic all-round experience. But the best part about it is what you can do on your screen.
Bowflex offers its own platform that has instructors who can help you train in many ways, just like with most exercise bikes. But there is so much more. Netflix, Disney Plus, HBO Max and HBO Max are just a few of the apps available onboard. This allows you to watch TV while riding long distances. Zwift can be used to ride with friends online, but it is worth noting that your performance on the bike may not be as accurate as on an indoor trainer approved by Zwift. You can track your performance and use it to help you improve.
This bike’s only problem is its size. The bike measures in at 60 inches long by 24 inches wide. This makes it one of our most popular indoor bikes. It’s a sturdy 158-pound bike, but smaller frame users may find it difficult to maneuver the front two small wheels.
Peloton
Peloton is the name you should know if you have been searching for an exercise bicycle. Peloton is the bike that you see in all of the commercials, the bike celebrities use and the one most likely to be purchased. Make fun of yourself somewhere. The most common thing you see about this bike is the high price. But, if you don’t pay attention to that detail you might miss something important: You’re getting much more than you usually get anywhere else.
Pelotons are much more comfortable than traditional exercise bikes. It feels like it was made for you. Every inch of it is comfortable and secure. The screen, handlebars and seat can be adjusted. It does not feel like an added feature, but it is purpose-built to fit this bike. This is a high-end design that sets the standard for exercise bikes.
Peloton bikes have been compared to Apple products because of their appearance and feel. But, the biggest problem with Apple products is that they only allow you to use them the way Peloton tells you to. Peloton bikes require special cycling shoes that lock in to the pedals. This adds to the overall cost. Although it is true that cleats improve your performance, it can be difficult for beginners to get started with special shoes.
Peloton offers a range of classes. But what makes them unique is their semi-live feel. Your performance can be viewed in real-time alongside other participants in the class. This is a great way for you to motivate yourself to go even further. After a while, you will find that the course structure can become monotonous. Many long-term riders report difficulty staying motivated when they reach a plateau in their performance.
Peloton offers two bikes. Bike PlusIt’s the newest and most advanced exercise bike, but it is also the most expensive. Peloton bikes have seen their prices drop recently, making them more affordable and easier to install in your home.
The Beachbody Company
After Myx’s acquisition by The Beachbody Company there was much speculation as to what would happen to the bikes. With the Myx II, Myx II Plus and other Myx II models now available, we know the answer. Instead of replacing the Myx experiences that fans have come to love, the new parent company also added the BODi exercise platform. This is something you can do if you wish.
Myx II measures in at 54 inches long and 21 inches wide. It takes up less space than other bikes that have a screen attached. The screen is 21.5 inches in size and can be used for a variety of workouts. But its true function lies in the fact that it can pivot around. You can also use the included mat for more than just cycling and sitting. The weights, resistance bands and kettle bell included allow you to exercise your entire body. You also have a lot of classes available to help you achieve that. Similar to what you will find in the Peloton Bike Plus. But for a fraction of the cost.
Myx II Plus supports Apple Watch integration to make it easy for you to connect your workout with Apple Health. However, the Polar heart rate monitor also works well. You can wear shoes with or without cleats with the reversible pedals. This bike is easily adjustable thanks to the numerous ways you can adjust the seat position, handlebar height, and distance.
A monthly subscription is available for classes that your Myx II Plus can access, just like other exercise bikes. You can choose from multiple subscriptions, which is unlike many indoor bikes. OpenFit is a popular option that can be purchased if you are a fan. Access to the BODi platform, which offers live classes and workouts at The Beachbody Company’s location, is required separately. The bike becomes more expensive if you buy both.
Bowflex
While the Bowflex Velocore may be cool, it’s not cheap. The Bowflex C7 offers core benefits and a lower price. The C7 has no side-toside leaning to core workouts. It also has a smaller display and speakers that aren’t very good. However, it is much more affordable than most exercise bikes. (I have tested similar). C6.)
This screen offers all the same great features as the Velocore. It also allows you to stream Netflix and all other streaming services along with your standard workouts. This bike is an excellent compromise, especially if your only goal is to have a sturdy magnetic resistance bike that you can use outside. If you are looking for a budget-friendly bike that is actually fun to use, this might be the best option.
Wahoo Fitness
Although exercise bikes can give you a good workout and feel almost like a bike for a workout, it is not enough for those who spend hours outside on their bikes. There’s only one way to make your indoor riding experience feel as challenging and real as the outdoor experience.
Wahoo kickr is very similar to a real bicycle, with customizable gearing and simulated shifting. The Wahoo Kickr’s aggressive seating position was designed to simulate a racing roadbike. You can also feel the resistance of the software when you ride it. This means that when Zwift’s virtual ride starts going uphill, Zwift adjusts the resistance to give you the most realistic riding experience. It’s the only exercise bike that can make you feel like you’re riding exactly where you see it on the screen.
If you’re a serious cyclist looking to improve your performance when it gets cold and dark outside, and you’re unwilling to sacrifice that real bike feeling to get it, the Wahoo Kickr bike is your best option. However, like everything else in the cycling world that is designed for hyper-accuracy, the price will be steep. This route is the best, as you can forget for a second that you’re actually inside if you add wind fans and large screens.
Saris
Indoor bikes are the best! The outdoor bike I already have. If you are like me and love your bike, it’s not a good idea to keep it up on your wall. A Direct Drive Trainer is a better option than buying an exercise bike that you can ride outdoors. If you plan to take your workouts to this extent, it is important that the trainer can intelligently adapt to your favorite apps.
You can swap your rear wheel for the Saris H3 to get a balanced surface that has built-in speed, cadence and power sensors. This will give you the information you need to measure performance. These sensors are compatible with Zwift BKOOL, TrainerRoad and Rouvy. This allows for an interactive experience. Your resistance will change based on the information you see in your app. Since you are riding a real bike, your power, shifting, and speed will also reflect this real-world feeling.
There are many indoor trainers that you can choose from, but this one is smart, price-sensitive, and performance-monitoring.
Schwinn
Schwinn has been a trusted name in cycling since the beginning. The IC4 indoor bike is a compact, lightweight option that features a magnetic resistance system as well as a small LCD display for basic performance statistics. It is surprisingly customizable and light at 106 pounds. This bike’s main purpose is to plug into other apps. You can do this with the tablet dock or a TV in your gym.
The basic display of the Schwinn IC4 connects via Bluetooth with your smartphone or tablet that has cycling apps. With the ability to translate the data from the bike to these apps, the performance can also be easily transferred to the phone. You can easily use Zwift or the Peloton app to get the results you desire, on whatever screen you prefer.
It is worth noting that the default configuration of this bike, and some apps, can have slight accuracy discrepancies. Zwift will, for instance, show you going faster than you are actually going. This can cause problems if you race friends or take part in daily challenges. This can be corrected with a calibration, but this is something you need to do if you are concerned about accuracy in third-party apps.
This article is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not meant to be a diagnosis or treatment. For any questions regarding a medical condition, or to achieve your health goals, consult a qualified physician.
