The best recumbent exercise bike is one that will help you to get a full-body workout without putting too much pressure on your joints. It is not just a piece of equipment, it’s an investment in your health. It can be the difference between staying healthy and being sick or injured. The right recumbent bike will get you into shape by burning calories, strengthening muscles, and improving balance. In this blog post, I’ll outline what to look for when buying a recumbent exercise bike and offer reviews on some of the top models available today. Read on for more details!
What is the Best Recumbent Exercise Bike?
To find the Best Recumbent Exercise Bike for you we have used several of recumbent bike and selected the absolute top 5 recumbent exercise bikes.
This is based on our first-hand experiences, years of practice as well as individual research on what others have to say, so that we can give you a more well-rounded review.
Feel free to scroll to the end of this article for a short buying guide and some frequently asked questions.
1. Vanswe Recumbent Exercise Bike 16 Levels Resistance
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 53 pounds (24.04 kg) Size: 45 x 40 x 20 inches (114.3 x 101.6 x 50.8 cm) Resistance Type: Magnetic Resistance Levels: 16 levels Material: Alloy Steel Screen Type: LCD Screen Size: 6 inches |
The Vanswe Recumbent Exercise Bike is another popular entry-level option that provides great value for its price point. It features a heavy-duty alloy steel construction that gives it a high maximum weight of 380 pounds. On the other hand, it has a lightweight build that makes it easy to maneuver and has a low-profile design that makes it ideal for seniors and the infirm. The recumbent features a magnetic resistance system with 16 levels, and one would expect it to offer more tension than bikes with 8. However, most users have noted that there isn’t a significant difference, especially in the lower positions while the higher levels deliver moderate intensity. Therefore, I would not recommend this exercise bike to anyone who isn’t elderly, obese, or recovering from joint and back problems.
The maximum height allowance is another exaggerated feature where the manufacturer indicates that the seat adjustment would be comfortable for 6’3″ people. But, users have noted that its maximum height is less, and a 6-foot person may not get the proper leg extension to use the recumbent safely. However, I like that the seat adjustment is infinite and allows you to fit without getting off the saddle. The console is another outstanding feature that I would like to highlight. Although it displays the typical metrics you find in most recumbents, it also comes with Bluetooth connectivity that helps you sync with the free fitness data app. The console also features a media shelf to hold your tablet or kindle to keep you entertained while you work out.
Pros
- Easy to assemble and maneuver,
- Lightweight construction with a compact design,
- Features Bluetooth and tablet holder, Ideal for seniors and overweight people,
- Offers 10-year warranty on the frame,
- Comes with highly responsive customer service
Cons
- Maximum saddle adjustment is below six feet,
- It doesn’t provide high-intensity workouts,
- Seat padding is not adequate
2. SCHWINN 270 Recumbent Bike
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Size: 64 x 49.9 x 27.7 inches (162.6 x 126.7 x 70.4 cm) Resistance Type: Friction Resistance Levels: 25 levels Material: Carbon Steel Screen Type: Dual-Track LCD Screen Size: 5.5 inches |
The Schwinn 270 is a high-priced model suitable for seasoned cyclists and people who want a high-intensity fitness regimen. The bike handles a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds and is ideal for people with a height of between 4’10” on the low end to 6’4″ on the upper side. Additionally, it features the least cumbersome seat adjustment systems that use an aluminum rail system with a lever to slide the seat. You can also pre-set the seat position and exercise program to twelve user profiles. The recumbent features a perimeter-weighted flywheel and a friction resistance mechanism with 25 levels that helps to simulate riding the bike outside. It comes with a fully loaded dual-track LCD console that offers 29 pre-set workout programs and 13 workout metrics. The console also features an iPad holder if you prefer to watch a movie and Bluetooth connectivity to sync your workout details with apps such as MyFitnessPal. The handles monitor your heart rate, and you also have the option of getting a chest strap for telemetry reading.
Other features I like include a USB charging port, an MP3 input port to connect your phone to the built-in speakers, an adjustable fan, a side-mounted water bottle holder, and a ventilated comfortable seat. I also like that it comes with two inline roller wheels at the front and a grab bar at the back that allows you to lift it and conveniently roll it in place. The recumbent also features leveling adjustments for uneven floors, and you can buy a protective floor mat separately.
Pros
- Accommodates up to twelve separate user profiles,
- Allows you to customize your workout programs,
- Convenient seat adjustments with a single lever, Easy to move the bike for storage with inline wheels,
- Compatible with various media for entertainment,
- Resistance mechanism simulates outdoor riding
Cons
- The heart rate monitor is not accurate,
- Mechanical components may wear out quickly,
- Poor customer service
3. Mousport Recumbent Foldable Fitness Cycle with Arm Resistance
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 46.41 pounds (21.05 kg) Size: 45.4 x 15 x 8.9 inches (115.3 x 38.1 x 22.6 cm) Resistance Type: Magnetic Resistance Levels: 8 levels Material: Steel Screen Type: LCD Screen Size: 15 inches |
This Mousport stationary exercise bike features a semi-recumbent design that gives you the benefits of an upright bike and is foldable for easy storage. It features a recumbent style saddle with a high-density sponge seat and backrest that is height adjustable with a knob. The bike features a foldable design that makes it ideal for tight spaces and comes with roller wheels for easy movement around your house. The location of the pedals gives the rider an upright form compared to the reclined form of the ordinary recumbent bike. The advantage of this design is that it gives you more intense workouts that burn more calories. It also allows for anaerobic training like you would have on a spin bike, which helps develop lean muscles and accelerates weight loss. Additionally, the bike comes with tension ropes to exercise your arms and shoulders.
Pros
- The semi-recumbent design provides a full-body workout,
- Has quick assembly as most parts are pre-assembled,
- Excellent tension on the pedals for HIIT training,
- Compact design for tight spaces
Cons
- Foldable design makes it unstable for heavy cycling,
- It may not be ideal for short people under 5-feet
4. Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike with Resistance ME-709
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 66 pounds (29.94 kg) Size: 55.5 x 37.5 x 25 inches (141 x 95.3 x 63.5 cm) Resistance Type: Magnetic Resistance Levels: 8 levels Material: 14-Gauge Steel Screen Type: LCD Screen Size: 12 inches |
Marcy ME-709 is an entry-level recumbent that comes highly recommended due to its ease of use and affordable price point. The bike features a low-profile design that makes it ideal for seniors, overweight people, and people on the path of recovery as it is easy to mount. One of its most attractive attributes is its ease of assembly, and most people can assemble it alone in under an hour. It also has a sturdy and lightweight construction that makes it easy to move around with its built-in glider wheels. It also has a high weight limit of 300 pounds, but my research shows that it can easily accommodate people who weigh up to 400 pounds.
The ME-709 is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to include exercise in their daily routine, but it’s not ideal for professional cyclists as it only comes with limited features. For instance, it features a quiet magnetic resistance system with eight low-impact resistance levels. It is lightweight with low inertia, so it is easy for seniors to pedal but not challenging enough for people looking to get a heavy workout. It also comes with an LCD screen that displays four exercise metrics. They include time, distance, speed, and calories burned. The seat is also relatively large to accommodate overweight people and provides excellent ergonomic support. The saddle is adjustable by moving the steel tube frame closer or further away from the pedals with six pre-set lengths, but you can drill extra holes on the tube frame to accommodate your height. I also like the weighted pedals with adjustable foot straps to prevent your feet from slipping.
Pros
- Highly rated and affordably priced,
- Low profile design for easy mounting,
- Wide ergonomic seat for heavyweight people,
- Sturdy structure with a high weight limit
Cons
- Bike parts wear out quickly,
- Pedaling action is not stable
5. Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike
| Specs |
|---|
| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 59 pounds (26.76 kg) Size: 54.4 x 39.5 x 26 inches (138.2 x 100.3 x 66 cm) Resistance Type: Magnetic Resistance Levels: 8 levels Material: Steel Screen Type: LCD Screen Size: 10 cm |
The Sunny RB4616 is another entry-level recumbent exercise bike that features a step-through design, a comfortable saddle, and a magnetic resistance mechanism. It is similar to other budget recumbents that I’ve reviewed here, with a minimal offering of features. However, if you are looking for a reliable cardio trainer for fitness, weight loss, or rehab, the RB4616 is an excellent choice. The bike features the typical tube steel frame with a low-profile design and has a small footprint that doesn’t take up much space in your storage. It also features wheels that make it easy to move around your home. However, the attribute I appreciate the most is the saddle adjustment that allows you to slide the seat closer or further from the pedals with just a lever. Plus, you don’t have to get off the saddle while you move it, which helps you get the best fit. The RB4616 is a lightweight exercise bike that can be assembled and relocated by one person. On the other hand, the steel frame is sturdy and robust to accommodate a 300-pound maximum weight limit, and it comes with stabilizers and levelers to prevent movement while you cycle. The magnetic resistance system features manual adjustment with a tension knob. The advantage is it has few mechanical parts to maintain, and the V-belt drive system helps to smoothen the pedaling action. On the downside, it comes with a lightweight flywheel which means that the resistance levels give you low to moderate intensity. So if you’re looking to lose weight with this exercise bike, I recommend combining your workout with a nutrition diet like paleo. Finally, it features a no-frills display console that gives you six workout metrics, including your heart rate. However, since it doesn’t include input data such as your age and weight, metrics such as calories burned may not be accurate. Another plus is it comes with a 3-year warranty on the frame compared to the 1-year warranty on the Exerpeutic recumbents reviewed here.
Pros
- Low-profile design allows easy access,
- Lightweight and robust construction for portability,
- Offers quick assembly with little maintenance care,
- Adjustable base stabilizers keep it sturdy,
- Good value for money
Cons
- Some metrics may be inaccurate,
- Low inertia for intense workouts
Verdict
To sum up, out of the top 5 Best Recumbent Exercise Bike, our absolute top pick is Vanswe Recumbent Exercise Bike 16 Levels Resistance.
If you have the money, you can go for SCHWINN 270 Recumbent Bike which is our premium pick.
However, there’s nothing wrong with going for the budget option, which we found to be the Mousport Recumbent Foldable Fitness Cycle with Arm Resistance.
Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:
- Best Folding Recumbent Exercise Bike
- Best Recumbent Bike For Back Problems
- Best Recumbent Exercise Bike Under 1000
What You Should Know Before Buying recumbent exercise bikes
Types of Recumbent Exercise Bikes
While recumbent road bikes vary greatly in construction, recumbent exercise bikes have slight variations in design features. These differences include digital versus manual consoles, the various seat adjustment, and drive mechanisms, and sizes. We have described these features in detail below.
The Key Features Of Recumbent Exercise Bikes
The key design feature of recumbent exercise bikes is the adjustable reclined seat with a backrest that allows one to be comfortable while working out their lower body. Other critical features include the size and weight of the bike, materials for durability, a display panel to monitor your workout, and resistance levels. One noticeable feature that stationary recumbent bikes lack is the handlebars you would find on upright bikes. Instead, most come with support bars on the sides of the seat or moving handlebars to work out your arms, such as you would find on the Sunny Recumbent Exercise Bike. However, dual-action exercise bikes such as the Xspec Dual Exercise Bike give you the option of using it as an upright or recumbent bike. Hence it features handlebars for the straight position alongside the support bars on the sides of the seat when you recline.
Resistance
Resistance helps you determine the intensity of your workout, and the most affordable recumbent exercise bikes feature 8 – 12 levels. Generally, exercise bikes use a resistance mechanism that applies various degrees of pressure on the bike’s flywheel to make the pedaling harder or easier to simulate riding up a hill or a flat surface. There are various types of resistance systems that include friction, magnetic, and electromagnetic. All work the same except that the friction magnetic resistance bike delivers an experience closest to a road bike where a change in the resistance level is immediate as you turn the knob.
On the other hand, magnetic bikes are manual and do not require electricity to work while electromagnetic mechanisms do. The disadvantage of magnetic bikes is they have a slight lag when you switch the resistance level, and electromagnetic systems are typically more expensive.
Comfort
Comfort is a critical design attribute of any recumbent exercise bike and is ideal for people who need upper body support while exercising. The bikes feature a low-profile design that makes it easy for the elderly, overweight, and infirm to get on the bike safely, while the bucket seats provide back support and balance with minimal pressure on the lower body joints.
Adjustability
Saddle adjustments allow you to fit the bike to the length of your legs and reach the pedals. There are two types of adjustments depending on the design of the recumbent exercise bike. The most affordable type involves sliding two movable parts of the frame to bring the saddle closer to the pedals, such as the Marcy ME-709 bike. The frame features pre-set holes that you align to position the seat and lock with a holding pin and knob.
On the other hand, you can get bikes that only use a lever to lock the seat’s position. The advantage of this system is it allows you to adjust the saddle as you sit on it, unlike the previous method. However, these bikes are also more expensive and are ideal for commercial purposes such as the gym. While the recumbent exercise bike saddle design provides excellent support for your back and lower joints, how you position it ensures that you don’t suffer pain and injury while exercising. Generally, the seat should be such that your knees are not too bent or overextended to cause strain. Also, your legs should be at the same level or higher than your hips to protect your lower back.
Storage Space
Unlike upright stationary bikes, recumbent exercise bikes take up significantly more space due to their bulky design. The bikes come in different sizes, and you may want to consider the dimensions when shopping for one. Home exercise bikes are typically smaller than the commercial varieties, and you can get foldable designs such as the Exerpeutic 400XL if you have a tight space.
Drive mechanism
When you are shopping for a recumbent exercise bike, you will probably see the drive mechanism mentioned a lot. The drive mechanism includes the flywheel, which is a disc that sits in front of the bike. It is the component that creates resistance in an exercise bike. It is usually covered with a casing in recumbent exercise bikes and connected to the pedals via a belt or chain. The flywheel is weighted to generate resistance to simulate the experience of outdoor riding on your exercise bike. There are two types of weighted flywheels that include the perimeter weighted flywheel and the center-weighted flywheel. In a perimeter-weighted flywheel, the weight is positioned along the outside of the disc. It delivers the closest simulation to a road bike than the center-weighted option. They are also heavier and require more effort to pedal to start and stop. However, once you gain momentum, the pedaling gets smoother and is ideal for people with joint problems.
On the other hand, center-weighted flywheels are typically lighter and are commonly not used for exercise bikes. They are often more expensive, and the ride may not be as smooth as you would get on a perimeter flywheel. However, they are easier to start and stop as they are lightweight and are ideal for people with joint aches.
Maintenance
Like all equipment, recumbent exercise bikes require regular maintenance, and we recommend having your bike checked for wear and tear every six months or so. It is also necessary to ensure that you inspect the bike often for loose nuts and bolts and lubricate the mechanical parts to ensure that it remains in good working condition. In addition, you should also wipe down the handlebars, seat, and digital console with a soft cloth and antibacterial cleaner after every workout for hygiene reasons.
Display
The display console is a pretty standard feature for all recumbent exercise bikes, and they help track and display workout data such as speed, distance, time, RPM, calories burnt, and pre-set programs. The more advanced recumbents will feature a tablet shelf, Bluetooth connectivity, speakers, and possibly a cooling fan. Display screens vary in size, the backlight color, and whether it is a touch screen or comes with buttons.
Pedals
There are three types of stationary bike pedals which include clip-ins, flat, and hybrids. Clip-ins and hybrid pedals are found on upright and spin bikes, while recumbent exercise bikes typically come with flat pedals made of steel or plastic material. Most flat pedals are textured and come with a plastic strap or toe-cage adjustable strap that holds down the forefoot securely on the pedal to prevent slipping.
Extra Features
Some of the extra features recumbent exercise bikes come with include media racks to hold your tablet or phone, so you can watch something online or read a book while you exercise. Built-in speakers, Bluetooth connectivity, and USB drives are also included in the midrange models to enable you to link your devices to the bike for entertainment and upload your workout data to apps such as MyFitnessPal. Some extra comfort features to look out for include built-in fans to keep you cool and gel padding on the seats to reduce fatigue while performing lengthy workouts.
Weight
Recumbent exercise bikes typically have a user weight limit that one should consider when buying the bike. Budget-priced recumbent bikes that you can get for your home workouts feature maximum weight limits of up to 300 pounds. On the other hand, commercial-grade recumbents have a more robust structure that allows for a higher weight limit of up to 400 pounds and is ideal for heavy-weight people.
Portability
Most stationary recumbent bikes come with inline roller wheels on the front stabilizer bar to make it easy to move around your space. The bike’s size and structural weight will determine how portable it is, and if you have space constraints, these are the primary features you may want to consider when choosing your bike.
Questions and Answers About recumbent exercise bikes
How Much Do Recumbent Exercise Bikes Cost?
Most budget recumbents fall within the $200 – $500 price range and come with minimum features. However, they can deliver light to moderate intensity workouts suitable for seniors and people recovering from injury. As you go up the price range, the bikes get more advanced in features, and you can get pre-set programs and resistance levels that are ideal for people with high fitness goals.
How do recumbent bikes work your butt?
The gluteus maximus located in the butt are other muscle groups that you can tone with recumbent exercise bikes. These muscles become active during the pulling back motion of the pedaling action. As you push and pull back your legs, the hamstring muscles at the back of your thigh become active and cause your glutes to contract and relax to firm up your butt.
Are recumbent bikes a good workout?
Yes, you can get good cardio work with recumbent exercise bikes, depending on their type. Entry-level models provide low to moderate intensity, while midrange and commercial types provide more intense workouts for professional cyclists. Cycling with a recumbent bike helps build and tone your leg muscles and strengthen your lower body joints while providing upper body support. It is also an excellent option for anyone who needs low-impact cardio workouts, such as the elderly, people starting their fitness journey, or anyone recovering from illness.
How Do I Choose A Recumbent Bike?
Recumbent exercise bikes come with various aspects, and your choice depends on the fitness goals you want to achieve. The critical features to look out for include the resistance levels, where recumbents with more than 12 levels offer more intense workouts for advanced users than those with less. Comfort is another feature to consider, and it includes the saddle adjustment system and seat padding. Safety depends on how easy it is to mount and dismount the bike, and if you are not flexible, you may want to consider a recumbent with a step-through design. Many people consider price as a necessary factor, and there are many affordable recumbents to consider. However, as you look at how much it costs, you should also consider the build quality, durability, and manufacturer’s warranty to avoid buying junk equipment.
Can I lose weight on a recumbent bike?
Riding a bike is a great cardiovascular exercise that will help you to lose weight. While cycling you can burn a significant amount of calories, especially on long rides, so accompanied by the right diet you will likely hit a calorie deficit and lose weight.
Are recumbent bikes any good?
Recumbent exercise bikes offer a few benefits over upright exercise bikes, such as upper body support and low impact workouts for seniors, overweight people, and the infirm who most need it. On the other hand, you can get high-performance training that a professional cyclist would require on these bikes while reducing the risk of strained joints and back muscles due to the seating position.
What’s better recumbent bike or upright?
Both types of exercise bikes offer specific advantages depending on your fitness goals. Recumbents are more comfortable due to the saddle position, and they are more suitable for people with knee or lower back problems. However, upright bikes offer more intense, full-body workouts that make them ideal for professional cyclists and people with high fitness goals.
Is recumbent bike as good as walking?
Both recumbent biking and walking serve the purpose of cardio fitness and weight loss. Biking, thanks to resistance, can help shed more calories, but a lively walk might rival a slow-paced bike ride. Bikes, with their seated posture, are protective of joints, but walking takes the lead in bone fortification.
Do recumbent bikes work abs?
Core muscles are activated while cycling, which includes the abdominals muscles. Additionally, cycling is a great cardio exercise that will help you lose fat and expose your abs.
How long should I ride my recumbent bike?
Your fitness goals will determine the workout duration on the bike. For seniors and anyone looking for a low-intensity workout, 30 minutes daily on the recumbent exercise bike will provide adequate cardio to maintain health. On the other hand, if your goal is weight loss or to improve your overall fitness level and cycling performance, 60 – 90 minutes for five days a week can deliver the results you are targeting. However, always exercise within your limits to prevent injuries and muscle fatigue.
Does the recumbent bike tone legs?
Generally, any cycling exercises you engage in will tone your leg muscles. Although recumbent exercise bikes are easier to ride than upright stationary bikes, they are just as effective. The cycling action on a recumbent will engage your thigh, leg, and calf muscles while the butt and hip joints get a low-impact effect from the workout.
Do You Need Extra Features?
Midrange and premium-priced recumbents often come with extra features to enhance your workout experience and also provide convenience. These features include Bluetooth connectivity to help you link your workout metrics to fitness apps, speakers for listening to music from your phone or tablet, and 3-speed fans to help keep you cool while you work up a sweat. However, as nice as it is to have extra features, whether you need them or not is a matter of preference. Budget recumbents that feature the minimum functions may give you the results you need just as much as a bike with a water bottle holder. But, the performance features such as the resistance levels will determine if the recumbent will help you achieve your fitness goals.
