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Working out at home has become an incredibly popular activity, especially with all the closures associated with COVID-19.
Since treadmills and elliptical machines are not everyone’s dream workout, stationary bikes are another option to help improve your cardiac health and strengthen and tone all of your major muscle groups.
If you’ve ever been to a spin class, you know exactly how effective and exhausting a stationary bike can be.
Plus, the exercise has a low impact on your joints so can be a great workout for anybody.
Since stationary bikes are highly customizable for your comfort and safety, even the most hesitant individuals would enjoy the experience.
Stationary bikes have a lot of benefits to you, but knowing which one is the RIGHT one can be a challenge.
You have to consider things like price, resistance levels, comfort, tracking capabilities, and more.
We have investigated 47 products over 32 hours and considered 430 consumer reviews in order to bring you the best stationary bikes Canada has to offer.
Following our last update, we recommend the DMASUN Indoor Cycling Bike for its durability, comfort, and stability.
In a rush? Buy it Now on Amazon!
Stationary Bike Comparative Table
| Product | Summary | Rating | Price | |
|
TOP PICK
|
DMASUN Indoor Cycling Bike
|
|
9.5/10 | See price on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
UPGRADE PICK
|
JOROTO Belt Drive Indoor Cycling Bike
|
|
9.6/10 | See price on Amazon |
|
COMPACT PICK
|
TODO Mini Exercise Bike
|
|
9.0/10 | See price on Amazon |
|
BUDGET PICK
|
Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Exercise Bike
|
|
8.9/10 | See price on Amazon |
Our Pick for The Best Stationary Bike
DMASUN Indoor Cycling Bike Review
The Best Overall
Dmasun
When shopping for a new stationary bike, most shoppers want some semblance of balance between quality and affordability. Though the adage “you get what you pay for” is almost always true, we’ve managed to find a reasonably priced, highly effective option: the DMASUN indoor cycling bike.
What We Think of The DMASUN Indoor Cycling Bike
This DMASUN stationary bike has everything to offer and almost no downsides. Its price is a bit high for the market average, but it is incredibly fair for the quality you receive. This bike weighs 95 lbs, so while you will likely need some help getting it in place in your home, its weight makes it one of the most stable stationary bikes money can buy. With a 330 lb weight capacity, pretty much anyone could feel secure on this bike.
Both the seat and handlebars are adjustable in height, so whether you are very short, very tall, or somewhere in the middle, you can find a setup that is comfortable for you. The magnetic resistance works on a dial system rather than presets, so you can really tailor the difficulty to your experience level and fitness level. The wide, soft seat ensures comfort for long and short rides in equal measure.
I have been working on completing a home gym for a couple of years now. I have a treadmill and elliptical that I love, and I’ve even developed a weight collection quite well. A stationary bike was one of the last pieces I was waiting on, and I am so happy I chose this DMASUN model. It is really comfortable and stable, and the dial system really helps me increase the resistance at my own pace.
carrie m.
This stationary bike is outfitted with an iPad holder and a water bottle holder, and its large LCD monitor can display and record workouts stats such as exercise time, speed, distance, calories, and even your pulse. No matter whether you are training for a real life bike event or you are just looking for a great way to get in shape, this bike has the comfort and adjustability to make your training a great experience.
DMASUN Indoor Cycling Bike Specifications
- Dimensions: 41.4” x 21.7” x 46.2”
- Weight: 95 lbs
- Resistance Levels: Dial system
- Adjustable Handlebars: Yes
- Adjustable Seat: Yes
- Weight Capacity: 330 lbs
- Warranty: 1 year for parts replacement
DMASUN Indoor Cycling Bike Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Will track and record your exercise time, speed, distance, calories, and pulse
- One of the most stable stationary bikes on the market
- Has a large LCD monitor, an iPad holder, and a water bottle holder
- Has a wide, soft seat for optimum comfort and support
Cons
- Quite expensive
Our Final Opinion about the DMASUN Indoor Cycling Bike
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 3.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the DMASUN indoor cycling bike is a great choice for everyone interested in an all around high quality stationary bike. Its price tag is a bit high but is representative of the quality, and its comfort and tracking capabilities ensure a premium experience with each use.
Our Upgrade Pick for a Stationary Bike
JOROTO Belt Drive Indoor Cycling Bike Review
The High Performance Pick
Joroto
Whether you’re a cycling pro or a total novice, it’s okay to choose quality over pinching pennies. If you’re willing to splurge and feel you deserve a high-quality, super effective stationary bike to improve your fitness, the JOROTO belt drive indoor cycling bike has everything you’re looking for.
JOROTO Belt Drive Indoor Cycling Bike Video Review
What We Think of The JOROTO Belt Drive Indoor Cycling Bike
This stationary bike by JOROTO is one of the best possible choices on the market. With a 300 pound weight limit, most individuals will feel secure on the bike. With a weight of 108 lbs and both front and rear stabilizers, this bike takes safety-consciousness to a while new level. There is a reason this bike is one of the most expensive models on the market after all.
The resistance works on a dial system to give you complete control over the intensity of your workouts. Plus, pushing down on the resistance dial will help stop the flywheel in just a few seconds when you are finished your workout or need a quick stop. The magnetic resistance with the belt drive means this is one of the quietest possible stationary bikes, ensuring there is never any disruption to your family life or work-from-home life.
I honestly could not imagine a more fitting bike for my needs. I don’t mind its price because I can already see the value of this product in the first week I’ve been using it. I ride three times a week for now while I get back into things, but I can tell this bike will take me as far as I want to push myself. I love the resistance system, and I can use it while my baby is napping in the next room without waking her.
john m.
One of the more unique things about this stationary bike is that both the seat and handlebars are 4-way adjustable. This means you can change both their horizontal and vertical position. No matter your height or posture preference while you ride, this bike can accommodate you. You’ll receive a 1-year warranty for parts replacement in case anything goes awry in your first 12 months of use.
JOROTO Belt Drive Indoor Cycling Bike Specifications
- Dimensions: 42.9” x 19.7” x 42.5”
- Weight: 108 lbs
- Resistance Levels: Dial system
- Adjustable Handlebars: Yes
- Adjustable Seat: Yes
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Warranty: 1 year for parts replacement
JOROTO Belt Drive Indoor Cycling Bike Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- 300lb weight limit is generous
- Very quiet magnetic resistance system
- 4-way adjustable seat and handlebars
- Front and rear stabilizers for user safety
Cons
Cons
- Very expensive
Our Final Opinion About the JOROTO Belt Drive Indoor Cycling Bike
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 3.0 out of 5.0 stars
All in all, the JOROTO belt drive indoor cycling bike is an impressive product designed for the user experience. With its near silent operation, it can be used anytime without disrupting family or work life. It is incredibly adjustable as well. Essentially, this a product that will not steer you wrong.
Our Compact Pick for a Stationary Bike
TODO Mini Exercise Bike Review
The Compact Pick
Todo
Not everyone has the luxury of carving out even 30 minutes to an hour for a workout at home, be it because of children, community engagements, or long shifts. If including a cycling workout under your desk or while watching TV sounds like the perfect compromise, the TODO mini exercise bike is for you.
TODO Mini Exercise Bike Video Review
What We Think of The TODO Mini Exercise Bike
If you’re looking for a way to improve your mobility and blood flow and just stay active in typically sedentary activities, then this is the perfect machine for you. It can be used by anybody since it doesn’t have a weight capacity (you’ll never put your entire body weight on this machine), and its portability means you can take it to and from work or move it easily around your house for different purposes.
If a true cardio workout or resistance training is what you’re after, this is not a great choice. This is due to two things; first of all, the weak flywheel doesn’t offer much resistance, so you will quickly outgrow the difficulty. It also cannot involve your whole body at once and does not offer the intensity needed to improve your cardiac fitness. However, it is a great machine for increasing blood flow and working on mobility.
I was contemplating buying one of those seated elliptical machines that fit under desks and such, but I am so relieved I chose this mini exercise bike instead. I really enjoy cycling but I don’t have the time for it anymore. This is the perfect compromise, and I think its pretty cool that I can use it for my arms as well. It’s easy to move around the house to use while reading as well. Very happy with it.
henrietta l.
The display on this little machine can track all of your important stats, but it isn’t anything fancy. Our favorite feature is the finger grips in the pedals, because they make arm pedaling a lot easier and a lot more comfortable. You can use this machine while working, reading, watching tv, feeding your baby, and so much more. It is the perfect way to add activity to your sedentary life, and its affordability makes it accessible to everyone.
TODO Mini Exercise Bike Specifications
- Dimensions: 16” x 13.75” x 12.6”
- Weight: 11 lbs
- Resistance Levels: Dial system
- Adjustable Handlebars: N/A
- Adjustable Seat: N/A
- Weight Capacity: N/A
TODO Mini Exercise Bike Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Portable and easily maneuverable
- Finger grips make arm pedaling comfortable
- Affordable
- Display tracks all important stats
Cons
Cons
- Not designed for true cardio training
- Weak flywheel doesn’t offer much resistance
Our Final Opinion About the TODO Mini Exercise Bike
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 3.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the TODO mini exercise bike is the perfect way to stay active during the day if you don’t have the time or space for a standard size stationary bike. It is compact and can be used for both lower body and upper body training. The smaller size doesn’t offer the best resistance, but it can help with blood flow and mobility.
Our Budget Pick for a Stationary Bike
Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Exercise Bike Review
The Budget Pick
Exerpeutic
If you’ve always been interested in adding a stationary bike to your home gym but have thus far been turned off due to the prices on most stationary exercise bikes, the Exerpeutic folding magnetic upright exercise bike is the best choice for a great cycle at an affordable price, no matter how strict your budget.
Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Exercise Bike Video Review
What We Think of the Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Exercise Bike
This Exerpeutic stationary bike has a surprising weight capacity of 300 lbs. This is right on par with higher end models on the market and will therefore not be a limitation for budgeted shoppers. Since the bike in its entirety weighs only 39 lbs, it won’t feel nearly as stable as heavier, more solid stationary bikes. The handlebars on this model are not adjustable, but the seat is, so everyone should still be able to find a comfortable way to ride.
One spec you’ll need to pay attention to is that this bike is compatible with individuals ranging in height from 5’3” to 6’1”. If you are outside of this range, you won’t find the bike very comfortable, or maybe not even usable. Although this is a highly affordable model, you’ll still receive a 1-year warranty on the frame and a 90-day parts warranty to ensure you make it through your first few months without any trouble.
This is a pretty awesome exercise bike. I live in an apartment, so my second bedroom functions as my home office and my home gym. This bike fits perfectly against one wall, and I love that it folds up to provide more walking space when I am not actively using it. It didn’t cost nearly as much as I expected either, which made my bank account very happy. I would prefer a dial for the resistance, but you can’t have everything.
jeremiah k.
The built in digital monitor can track stats such as your pulse, calories burned, time, and distance. It also has a scan feature if you’d prefer to see your progress in all areas on a rotation as you cycle. There are 8 various resistance levels to choose from, so you’ll be able to advance as you gain experience and improve your fitness. This bike even folds upright to take up less space when not in use.
Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Exercise Bike Specifications
- Dimensions: 31” x 19” x 46”
- Weight: 39 lbs
- Resistance Levels: 8
- Adjustable Handlebars: No
- Adjustable Seat: Yes
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Warranty: 1 year on frame, 90 days on parts
Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Exercise Bike Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Tracks pulse, calories burned, time, speed, scan, and distance
- Folds for simple storage
- Suitable for users ranging from 5’3” to 6’1” with adjustable seat
- 300 lb weight limit
Cons
- Not as sturdy
- Just 8 levels of resistance offer limited choice compared to dial systems
Our Final Opinion About the Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Exercise Bike
Quality 3.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 3.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
All in all, the Exerpeutic folding magnetic upright exercise bike is the best possible choice for individuals looking for an affordable, easy to use stationary bike. It is foldable for easy storage and has a weight capacity comparable to the top end models on the market.
Alternative Products to Consider
Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike Review
The Best Long-Distance Alternative
Marcy
Biking is one of the most popular exercises for improving cardio fitness, but the standard bike, stationary or otherwise, will become uncomfortable fairly quickly. For those longer stationary rides, the Marcy ME-709 recumbent exercise bike is the best choice for low-impact, higher-comfort long-distance stationary cycling.
Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike Video Review
What We Think of the Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike
This Me-709 stationary bike by Marcy is one of the more unique bikes we are excited to tell you about. Its recumbent style makes it much more comfortable for long-distance cycling, and it is also suitable for people with more limited mobility that would struggle to either get on a standard bike, or STAY on. This recumbent model weighs 61 lbs and can support a weight of up to 300 lbs.
Due to the style of this bike, the handlebars are not adjustable, but the extra-padded seat is adjustable. You will be pleasantly surprised by the ergonomic design of this stationary bike, and the back support is exceptional as well. Whether you are an older individual looking for an exercise back that is easier to get on, or you need these additional comfort features for long distances, you really can’t go wrong with this model.
My mum was looking for a way to exercise in her home that wouldn’t be too difficult on her joints but was still fairly effective. She enjoys staying fit, so I thought a recumbent exercise would be the perfect compromise for her. She loves to cycle but isn’t able to stabilize herself on a regular bike the way she used to. I feel better knowing she is exercising safely, and she has enjoyed working her way up the resistance levels.
mary r.
With eight preset resistance levels, you won’t have the same customizability as dial models, but you’ll still have the opportunity to increase the difficulty as your fitness improves. The handlebars may feel tight on your body if you have wider hips, so that is something to keep in mind. Also, you can’t adjust the display from your recumbent position, so you won’t be able to view different stats without pausing your cycling.
Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike Specifications
- Dimensions: 58” x 20” x 38”
- Weight: 61 lbs
- Resistance Levels: 8
- Adjustable Handlebars: No
- Adjustable Seat: Yes
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Great back support and ergonomics
- Extra-large padded seat offers more support than standard bike seats
- Counterbalanced pedals for support and control
- Easy to get on even for older people
Cons
- Fairly expensive
- Can’t adjust the display from the seat to see varying stats
- Handlebars may be a tight fit for wide hips
- Set resistance levels instead of adjustable
Our Final Opinion About the Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 3.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 3.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Marcy ME-709 recumbent exercise bike is the perfect option for people who enjoy long-distance cycling or are not mobile enough to use a standard design. This bike will require some give and take on different features, but it certainly does have its uses, and it will be a perfect fit for many people.
Women’s Health Men’s Health Indoor Cycling Exercise Bike Review
The Connected Alternative
Women’s Health Men’s Health
Working out whilst staring at a blank wall is a recipe for disaster – boredom will kill your motivation 10 times faster than any pain associated with building muscle or pushing your cardio limits. For a more engaged workout, the Women’s Health Men’s Health indoor cycling exercise bike is a must.
Women’s Health Men’s Health Indoor Cycling Exercise Bike Video Review
What We Think of The Women’s Health Men’s Health Indoor Cycling Exercise Bike
With a five-year warranty on the frame and a three-year warranty for parts, this stationary bike has the best coverage we’ve seen. As such, we have a lot of confidence in the quality and performance of this bike. It can support up to 300 lbs which is fairly standard for the industry, and at 89 lbs itself, this is a fairly stable model even if you max out its carrying capacity.
Both the seat and the handlebars are adjustable on this model, so everybody will be able to set it up so they are comfortable, no matter their height or reach or riding preferences. With 14 preset resistance levels, this is a highly customizable bike for resistance training. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cyclist, this stationary bike can help get you to another level.
I am a BIG fan of having an interactive screen on my workout machines, because once I get bored I completely lose my will to keep pushing myself. Having the app for training help keeps me motivated for my entire workout and eager to come back the next day to beat my personal bests. I am comforted by the long warranty coverage and I love how quiet it is while I’m on it.
jamieson l.
This is one of the quietest stationary bikes on the market, so if you keep odd hours and like to cycle at night, or need to sneak in a workout once your baby is napping, this is the perfect choice. Plus, this is one of the only models that has a fitness app that can be used while riding to offer advanced training and keep you connected at all times.
Women’s Health Men’s Health Indoor Cycling Exercise Bike Specifications
- Dimensions: 42.5” x 7.9” x 32.7”
- Weight: 89 lbs
- Resistance Levels: 14
- Adjustable Handlebars: Yes
- Adjustable Seat: Yes
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Warranty: 5 years on frame, 3 years for parts
Women’s Health Men’s Health Indoor Cycling Exercise Bike Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Comes with MyCloudFitness app for advanced training
- Whisper quiet magnetic resistance flywheel
- 14 resistance options for every fitness level
- Adjustable seat and handlebars for every body
Cons
- Very expensive
Our Final Opinion About the Women’s Health Men’s Health Indoor Cycling Exercise Bike
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 2.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Women’s Health Men’s Health indoor cycling exercise bike is the premium choice for people looking for some extra engagement and connectivity with their stationary bike. With great adjustability and super quiet performance, this is a pretty flawless bike, aside from the price tag.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B901 Indoor Cycling Bike Review
The Adjustable Alternative
Sunny Health & Fitness
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B901 indoor cycling bike is the best choice if you’re looking for a stationary bike that is completely adjustable, from your seat to the handlebar height to your hand positioning and resistance level. If you want variety in your workout, standing or sitting, this is the stationary bike for you.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B901 Indoor Cycling Bike Video Review
What We Think of the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B901 Indoor Cycling Bike
Sunny Health & Fitness is one of the best known brands for all things fitness. It is no surprise that their SF-B901 cycling bike has stolen one of our top 7 picks for Canadian stationary bikes. This model has a lower weight capacity than is normal for the industry at only 275 lbs, but this should still be inclusive for most of the people out there looking to start cycling at home or needing a replacement for an old bike.
Aside from the lower weight capacity, our only gripe with this model is that its warranty coverage doesn’t apply in Canada. However, it is a very well-made bike offered at a fair price, so we don’t expect too many people will run into problems anyways. The resistance dial system allows you to precisely tune each workout to your fitness and increase it at your own pace as you improve, rather than following presets.
My boyfriend brought this stationary bike with him when he moved into my house last month, and I now use it more often than he does. The dial system is awesome and I love how the both of us can be extremely comfortable on it with a few quick adjustments of the seat and handlebars. It is perfectly suited to both our experience levels, and I can recommend this to everyone.
sheila n.
Both the seat and handlebars are adjustable for your comfort, and the versatile handle options guarantee you are supported no matter what kind of cycling you are doing. The emergency stop feature is a huge asset for this bike, and it is one that should be included on every model, in our opinion. No matter what your fitness level is currently or where you want it to be, this bike will help you achieve your goals.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B901 Indoor Cycling Bike Specifications
- Dimensions: 46.5” x 20” x 48.4”
- Weight: 97.2 lbs
- Resistance Levels: Dial system
- Adjustable Handlebars: Yes
- Adjustable Seat: Yes
- Weight Capacity: 275 lbs
- Warranty: Unavailable in Canada
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B901 Indoor Cycling Bike Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Emergency stop
- Micro-adjustable resistance for every fitness level
- 4-way adjustable seat
- Multiple handle options for every hand position
Cons
Cons
- No warranty coverage in Canada
- Lower weight capacity
Our Final Opinion About the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B901 Indoor Cycling Bike
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
All in all, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B901 indoor cycling bike is one of the most adjustable and therefore inclusive bikes on the market. No matter what position you find comfortable for cycling or how finely you want to tune your resistance level, this bike can support your preferences.
Why Should You Trust Us?
All the recommendations we make on The Good Choice are the result of many hours of research, comparisons, analysis of consumer reviews and, if necessary, expert feedbacks. The products we recommend here are the ones that will best perform their daily tasks, passing all security, reliability and efficiency tests while having an appealing price-quality ratio for everyone.
What are our criteria for judging the products reviewed and selected by The Good Choice?
- Quality: Does the product have a solid construction? Will it be reliable over time? Does it have a good warranty?
- Efficiency: Is the product efficient in its task or do you need to give it some help? Is it for example powerful, fast, quiet?
- Usability: Is the product easy to handle, easy to use and maintain?
- Price: Is the price of the product and/or accessories and/or spare parts reasonable compared to the rest of the market?
In addition to these main criteria, we then establish a list of specific criteria for each product category, detailed a little further down in this article.
In the end, the products we recommend are the ones we would want to buy, and the ones we would also choose for our friends and family.
Things to Know Before Buying a Stationary Bike
Benefits of Using a Stationary Bike
The benefits of including a stationary bike in your home gym are numerous and very convincing; we think everyone would want a stationary bike after learning how they can improve your life and health. Let’s start with the most obvious; riding a stationary bike is a great way to boost cardio health and fitness, burn body fat, and lose weight safely. Stationary bikes provide a low-impact workout that is good for your joints and still provides enough of a challenge for building leg strength. They are also highly ideal for interval training, which burns more calories and makes your workouts more effective.
Aside from the physical, stationary bikes help you save money on gym memberships, are much safer than cycling on city streets, and are incredibly convenient for cycling year-round regardless of weather. Plus, cycling will promote good cholesterol, release endorphins, and boost your energy levels just like any other exercise.
What Are the Different Types of Stationary Bikes?
“Stationary bike” is an all-encompassing term for any exercise machine that spins with pedals. It includes recumbent bikes, upright bikes, and under-desk bikes. Depending on your budget, favoured cycling position, and preferred workout intensity, one style will appeal to you above the others.
Recumbent bikes are horizontal bikes that place the seat and pedals nearly parallel to each other. The seat is larger, users are supported by a back rest, and the handles are placed low at your hips. Your legs extend out in front of you to pedal, further reducing stress on your joints during your exercise. This style does not include an upper body workout, and they don’t fold. They are often chosen by people who cannot lift their leg to mount an upright bike or who fear falling from the taller seat.
An upright stationary bike looks most similar to a standard bicycle, and they are the most popular choice in professional and home gyms alike. Most often, these upright bikes can fold as small as half their size to make storage easier. The seat and handlebars are usually both adjustable so you can find a comfortable position regardless if you’re barely 5’ or exceed 6’.
The most portable option is the under-desk stationary bike. These miniature versions are very simple – they include a flywheel and two pedals, and that’s it. Many people use them for arm workouts as well, especially since many of these mini stationary bikes include finger grooves for that purpose. Under-desk bikes are very lightweight and the most affordable options. However, they don’t offer the same level of workout that the other types of exercise bikes offer since the flywheel is so small.
How to Set Up Your Seat and Handle Positions ?
Getting set up on your stationary bike is a very similar process to setting up with a normal bike no matter which style of bike you’re using. When sitting, your leg should remain slightly bent when your foot is on the far side of the pedal, ensuring you don’t strain to complete the circle. Your seat should be far enough away that your knee doesn’t bend up too far. With an upright bike, you’ll have the option of standing or siting while you cycle, and you may position your body to sit upright or lean forward over the handlebars. Since the handlebars are usually adjustable or offer various grip points, you’ll be able to find a comfortable position no matter what.
How to Properly Choose Your Stationary Bike
- Price.
Depending on the type of stationary bike you choose, you could be looking at paying less than a hundred bucks or shelling out more than a thousand for a gym-quality upright or recumbent exercise bike. The type and caliber of resistance offered is the next most influential factor in stationary bike pricing, so athletes should expect to spend more than novice or casual cyclers who don’t need to be challenged quite as much.
- Size.
Depending on your available gym space, you may be limited by the type of stationary bike you can choose. Under-desk bikes are great if you need something to take between home and work, or if you don’t have the space for a full-size piece of exercise equipment. Recumbent bikes are longer but much shorter, so they can be tucked away fairly easily when not being used, but they don’t fold. Upright bikes may require more headspace, but they often fold to up to half their usual size to be put away in a small storage closet.
- Weight Capacity.
The standard weight capacity is 300 lbs, but some bikes may only support 250 lbs while others can support up to 500 lbs. The quality of the bike you choose will be the most important factor when looking at weight capacities, but even affordable options can usually support 300 lbs with strong steel frames and wide feet. Of course, if the weight capacity will be an issue, an under-desk bike is a great first step since they have no weight limit (your couch or desk chair provides your seat).
- Resistance Levels.
When using a stationary bike, there are two options for resistance. You either have pre-set levels of resistance, usually ranging from 8 to 14 difficulty levels, or dial systems that allow for micro adjustments and much more precise control over the challenge the bike offers. Though pre-sets are more common, the dial systems are the more popular choice since they can be set for your specific fitness level with better accuracy.
- Data Monitoring.
Data monitoring and stat tracking is the ideal way to stay motivated during your exercise, and with a stationary bike, it is incredibly easy. All models come with a display that shows your time, speed, distance, count, and calories burned. More advanced bikes will also include pulse tracking to monitor your heart rate – a very useful feature particularly with interval training.
- Comfort.
Not all stationary bikes are as comfortable as they should be. There are a few key features to look for to make sure you’ll be comfortable while riding. The first is a large seat. Bike seats are notoriously uncomfortable, but stationary bikes often have thick padding and a wider structure than the normal bicycle for greater comfort. Another feature to keep an eye out for is a handlebar that offers multiple padded grip options. Variety in your positioning will help you avoid fatigue, so handlebars that offer several grip options are preferred over the basic handle design. Recumbent bikes are the most comfortable option since the seat is large and square and you’ll be supported by a back rest for optimal posture while pedaling.
- Adjustability.
An adjustable seat and handlebars are incredibly important for your posture and safety while exercising on a stationary bike – it is too easy to hurt yourself if you’re working out without the proper form. Unfortunately, not all stationary bikes have adjustable handlebars, so if you’re significantly taller or shorter than the average height, you may need to only choose bikes with adjustable handlebars to avoid discomfort. A vertically adjustable seat is virtually guaranteed on a stationary bike, but not all of them will slide front to back as well, so this is an extra feature to look out for to make sure you can comfortably reach the handlebars – especially if the handles don’t move.
- Warranty.
As with any piece of exercise equipment, a warranty on a stationary bike is very important. There are many moving parts that can break or degrade over time, so a warranty coverage can mean the difference between getting a free replacement part and having to purchase a brand new bike. You can expect to receive a 1-year warranty on most stationary bikes, but there are some that have different coverage periods for parts versus the frame. The higher-quality stationary bikes may have warranties as long as 5 years on the frame and 3 years on parts, but every bike is different.
We do our best to provide you with a comparative guide of stationary bikes allowing you to choose the best product possible. If we are missing information or new models, do not hesitate to leave a comment below or to send us a message.
