Exercise Bikes
The exercise bike  is one of the top three items purchased as home exercise equipment next to treadmills and elliptical trainers. Their popularity stems from their simplicity and joint-friendly motions. Despite being a nearly impact-free form of exercise, a bike can still give you an efficient workout, both for your muscles and heart.
In this guide you can find out about the types and features of stationary bikes, from recumbents to spinners. If you are at all skeptical about switching over to an indoor bike, you may want to read this guide to indoor training bikes versus outdoor cycling. It discusses bicycle trainers which can be used indoors with your outdoor bike.
Cost vs. Usage
The first consideration when buying any large piece of equipment usually has to do with the price tag. Exercise bikes range in style and quality, which of course affects their cost -- starting at a couple hundred dollars and spanning into the thousands. Thus, the most important consideration to measure before doing anything else is determining how much you exercise at home. Avid exercisers should spend the extra money and invest in a top-notch, quality machine that will last a lifetime, whether it be a standard upright or a spinner model. For enthusiasts, spinners are the crème de la crème of exercise bikes, but they start at around $1000. If you are a casual exerciser, go for a decent budget model that won't break the bank. The recumbents are a new breed and a class in their own, good for most beginners and moderate exercisers.
The recommended models below are those rated as top models by ConsumerSearch.com. As far as budget models, they recommend the Schwinn 113 for an upright and for recumbents the Schwinn 213 and the NordicTrack SL 728.
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Upright
The traditional upright is a standard indoor trainer that is built to last; however, they are notorious for having uncomfortable seats, and awkward pedals. Perfect for cyclers of all fitness levels. Recommended models:Life Fitness LifeCycle C7i bike |
Recumbent
Opt for a recumbent bike if you want an easier workout and a more supportive ride (particularly if you have back problems). Space-wise, they are bulky, so make sure that you have room. Recommended models: |
Professional Spinner
Spinners offer an advanced workout, since they are most similar to outdoor bikes. Their strong point is their high quality construction and improved program features that can meet the demands of the most experienced enthusiast. Recommended model: |
Dual Action Air Bike
These are less common upright bikes with moving arms that give you the added bonus of a light upper body workout. They have a fan mechanism to keep you cool while you pedal and they are fine for the leisurely home rider. Recommended model: |
Features and Options
Resistance - So that your workout resembles more of how you would feel while cycling outdoors, a stationary bike is made with settings for changing between various levels of resistance, similar to gears on an outdoor bicycle.
- The more you spend, the more options you will have for resistance settings. This is important since a variety of resistance gives you more training possibilities. The lower the resistance, the more aerobic the workout you will will be. The higher the resistance, the more strength training you get.
- There are two main types of resistance settings: manual and electronic.
- The majority of the models on the market today use electronic resistance adjustments (a.k.a. magnetic) instead of using the old-fashioned knobs and levers.
- Electronic resistance is easier and more convenient to adjust since everything is accessible from the electronic control display.
- Electronic resistance settings are easier to control and track. Plus, it is the most quiet and versatile form of resistance.
- Manual resistance may need several adjustments to get it to the right level.
- If possible, test the bike out before buying. You want to look for one that runs smoothly on all resistance levels.
Adjustments - Do not under or over estimate the comfort and adjustability of a bike.
- Comfort is important so that you won't tire from using the bike and give up on the workout.
- Adjustability is important for a number of reasons:
- The seats and/or pedals should adjust. This is crucial to getting a proper fit.
- Adjustability is useful when there are several users of different sizes using the same bike.
- Handlebar adjustment does not come standard, but it is a way of making cycling more comfortable and versatile. Uprights with T-bar handles keep the rider upright as if they were on a mountain bike, while others wrap around the console for a dropped riding position similar to that of a road bike.
- A tilting seat is an added comfort feature available on some models.
- Make sure that the handlebars and the saddle are spaced far enough apart that it is easy to mount and dismount.
Weight Limits- Stationary bikes often have weight limits, as do most exercise equipment.
- The high-end models have higher weight limits, allowing multiple users to enjoy the same bike.
- Always check the weight limits on the biks you want to buy before making a purchase.
Workout Console - On mid-range to high-end bikes an electronic console will usually come as part of the package. If you can test it before you buy, see that it is user-friendly. Also make sure that it is large and easy to read from the seated position.
- How many high-tech features it has depends on cost most of the time, but also on taste and budget.
- Basic features include measurements of distance, speed, and time.
- Advanced features tell you how many calories you have burned, the resistance level at which you are working, and your current heart rate.
- Premium models provide you with several workout programs based on type and length of the workout. of workout. This type of pre-programmed console is great for increasing and maintaining motivation. In addition, it is a helpful mechanism for athletes in training.
Extras - A weighted flywheel provides more stability and balance. It also makes moving the bike more of a hassle.
- Comfortable seats can make riding much more enjoyable. Look for those with extra padding.
- Foot straps make for an easier ride since there is no fumbling with the pedals.
- Heart rate monitors are a nice way to judge whether or not you are getting a proper aerobic workout. Opt for a chest strap model for the most precise reading.
- Non-slip handle bars are key.
- Do you need a spot to keep your water bottle?
- Is there a place to rest a magazine or book?
- Do you have children in the house? Make sure that you choose a model with covered wheels and chains, otherwise, it could be a safety hazard.
Warranty - Pay attention to the warranties for parts and labor, electronics, and frame.
- A one year warranty (with labor) is the minimum to accept on a decent model. Parts and frame warranties will usually be longer.
- Warranties on stationary bikes vary just as much as with other household goods and fitness equipment.
- Some machines can last a lifetime, and those are the ones that will have a warranty to match. Rule of thumb: the longer the warranty, the better the quality.
Major Manufacturers
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