Fitness
Trainers Say This Exercise Bike Is Just As Good As A Peloton For A Quarter Of The Price
No matter the cost, “exercise bikes can be a great, low-impact method for improving or maintaining cardiovascular health,” says Doug Sklar, CPT. They can also help you tone up and build strength, whether they’re under $500 or way more expensive, points out Kaleigh Ray, a certified exercise physiologist.
Based on our testing experience and expert feedback, it’s important to consider size, resistance levels, and maximum weight before taking the plunge on an upright or recumbent bike.
What To Consider
Size
Upright bikes tend to take up the least amount of space, while recumbent bikes (which puts the rider in a leaning-back sitting position) are usually bulkier. You should carefully measure the area where you plan to put a bike and make sure to leave extra space around the sides for getting on and off. Some models have wheels or even fold up. If you plan to move your machine around frequently, this is definitely something to consider.
Resistance Levels
Some exercise bikes have limited resistance levels, which means less tension while pedaling, while others (usually studio-style bikes) have a lot of options to allow you to fine-tune the resistance. “That includes higher-intensity sprint things or lower-intensity, slower rides,” says Albert Matheny, RD, CSCS. Either way, you’ll want to be able to adjust the resistance to challenge yourself. Consider the type of workouts you plan to do before deciding on one option over another.
Maximum Weight
Every bike will have a maximum weight—meaning, how heavy the rider can be. The bikes we recommend on this list have a generous limit, which means all family members can feel safe while pedaling. Manufacturers will usually clearly state this information, so be sure to read the fine print. Using a bike when you’re heavier than the maximum weight could void the warranty, if there is one, or even worse—break and cause you to injure yourself.
How We Chose
Women’s Health editors consulted with five personal trainers who regularly use exercise bikes and implement them into their clients’ workout regimes. Using their advice on important features to look for, we evaluated popular models on factors like size, resistance levels, and maximum weight. We included a range of styles to suit a variety of needs and fitness levels. With that in mind, these are the best exercise bikes under $500 to help you get in a solid low-impact workout without blowing your budget.
” data-next-head/>
Best Recumbent Exercise Bike Under $500
Sunny Health & Fitness Heavy-Duty Recumbent Bike
A recumbent bike, like this one from Sunny Health & Fitness, is ideal for people with back issues thanks to its wide extra-supportive seat that helps reduce strain For this reason, it’s “preferred by many older adults,” says Melissa Hendrix Wogahn, CSCS, and exercise physiologist. While our top choice has 100 resistance levels, this model only has eight. It limits intense workouts on the bike, which is something to keep in mind if you’re used to fast-paced cycling classes. Matheny says this is “best for beginners or older people who have never cycled or taken a spin class.”
Users can adjust the intensity level by turning the dial, while the seat position is equally easy to tweak—just pull up the lever. At 59 pounds, this bike is surprisingly lightweight for a recumbent and can hold up to 300 pounds, which makes it technically sturdier than the YOSUDA. But, it’s still bulkier and wider than other options on this list. If you have limited space or live in an apartment, this is probably not the best choice.
The display is small and basic but shows time, speed, distance, calories burned, and pulse (if you grip the sensors on the handles). There’s also a water bottle holder positioned between your legs, although it requires you to lean over while pedaling to grab your drink.
Read more: Best Recumbent Bikes
| Size | 56.3 x 26.3 x 42.9 in. |
|---|---|
| Resistance Levels | 8 |
| Maximum Weight | 300 pounds |
Best Compact Exercise Bike Under $500
ATIVAFIT Foldable Exercise Bike
Nearly every exercise bike is going to hog floor space in your home, but the ATIVAFIT Folding Exercise Bike has a genius design that allows the bike to fold up into a compact package the size of a vacuum so you can stash it away in a closet, corner, and the tiniest of city apartments. It also has a small footprint when it’s unfolded and is the most lightweight option on this list at only 34 pounds. Plus, the frame is surprisingly sturdy since it can withstand up to 264.5 pounds (!).
Sklar says this bike is “a good option for those with limited space who want the challenge and benefits of cycling.” The bike has seven adjustable seat height options, although the recommended max height is 5’8”. Similar to our recumbent bike option, there are only eight resistance levels. “It’s suitable for beginners, but may not be ideal for more experienced cyclists,” Ray says. If you need a challenge, the YOSUDA bike is the best option.
Like all the bikes on this list, a device tray on the display can hold your phone or tablet, while the display itself gives data on your time, speed, calories, and pulse.
Read more: Best Foldable Treadmills
| Size | 34 x 10 x 15 in. |
|---|---|
| Resistance Levels | 8 |
| Maximum Weight | 264.5 pounds |
Meet The Experts
- Albert Matheny, RD, CSCS, is a co-founder of New York City’s SoHo Strength Lab. He also serves as the consulting dietitian for DB Track Club, a professional track and field training group.
- Doug Sklar is a CPT and founder of the New York City fitness training studio PhilanthroFIT.
- Kaleigh Ray is a certified exercise physiologist at Treadmill Review Guru.
- Melissa Hendrix Wogahn is a CSCS and exercise physiologist.
- Taylor Beebe is a CPT based in California. She’s also a national qualifier for USA Powerlifting.
Korin Miller is a freelance writer specializing in general wellness, sexual health and relationships, and lifestyle trends, with work appearing in Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Self, Glamour, and more. She has a master’s degree from American University, lives by the beach, and hopes to own a teacup pig and taco truck one day.
Albert Matheny, RD, CSCS, is he founder of Promix Nutrition and co-founder of SoHo Strength Lab in New York City. As a track and field athlete at the University of Florida and with USA Triathlon, Albert earned a master’s of science in exercise physiology and dual bachelor’s in food science and human nutrition and human performance. Albert consults as a registered dietitian with everyone from olympic gold medalists to high-school athletes.
Watch Next
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
Advertisement – Continue Reading Below
Haudenschild Eyes World Of Outlaws Championship – SPEED SPORT
Donatella Versace’s Future at Fashion Brand Uncertain Amid Contract End
McKinney Shopping Center Taking Shape – Connect CRE
AG Nessel is Sending out a notice about Health and Travel Clubs
Jimmy Butler’s relationship with the Heat has run its course
Travel And Live Events Will Drive Experience Economy Growth In 2025
Optimum customers unable to watch NY sports teams amid dispute with MSG over fees | amNewYork
311, Generald Wilson highlight Sunday’s game entertainment
How Tech Influences and Aids Gambling in the Big Games – WDEF
