If you're a fan of spin classes, you know it's an excellent way to get in cardio that's low impact on your joints. It's also a perfect way to cross-train for other sports. However, getting into spin classes can sometimes prove to be an expensive, competitive, and problematic experience. That's why adding an exercise bike to your home gym can be a great way to add variety, boost overall fitness, return from injury, and add low impact strength.
Luckily for your home gym, exercise bikes have come a long way in recent years. Instead of the bulky, heavy, ugly pieces of exercise equipment from '90s gym culture, newer stationary bikes have been designed for the home.
Our ACTIVE Reviews Team tested an array of at-home bikes and decided on this collection of the best stationary bikes to buy in 2023. Each exercise bike has unique strengths and features, meaning there is bound to be one that fits your needs.
Why Trust Us?
The ACTIVE Reviews Team is made up of fitness experts that include athletes, coaches, and certified trainers who bring years of knowledge and experience to each review. More importantly, each member of our team is a fitness enthusiast. Fitness may be our job, but it is also our passion. Therefore, we strive to bring you products that we trust and would personally use.
Best Exercise Bikes of 2023 - Our Top Picks
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- Best Overall Exercise Bike: Sole SB700 Bike
- Best Exercise Bike with Screen: Echelon GT + Connect
- Most Popular Exercise Bike: Peloton Stationary Bike
- Best Peloton Alternative: NordicTrack S27i Studio Bike
- Best Exercise Air Bike: Rogue Echo Bike
- Best Value Exercise Bike: ProForm Carbon CX
- Best Luxury Exercise Bike: Sole Fitness Sole SB900
- Best Exercise Bike for Home: Diamondback Fitness 910ic Indoor Cycle Magnetic Trainer
- Best Exercise Bike Under $1000: Sunny Premium Indoor Cycling Smart Stationary Bike
- Best Folding Exercise Bike: XTERRA FB150 Folding Bike
Best Overall Exercise Bike - Sole SB700 Bike
Specs
- Overall dimensions: 40"L X 27"W X 42"H
- Screen: LCD data screen
- Shoes: Flat
- Features: Adjustable seat, handlebar and pedals, and Kevlar braking
The lightweight SB700 is an ideal option for bringing the spin class studio to your home without spending a fortune. This stationary bike was designed to mesh the best of both indoor and outdoor riding for a smooth and powerful workout. Use the bright display which allows you to easily view workout data such as speed, cadence, calories, and more. And just because this bike is more affordable than most doesn't mean it's lacking in durability—a heavy-duty, steel frame and chrome-plated flywheel with magnetic braking ensure a smooth, stable ride.
Adjust the seat and pedals to what feels comfortable to you, while the console displays essential metrics like heart rate, distance, calories burned, speed, and more. Plus, the bike comes with a 30-day trial of Sole Studio to connect you with a fitness partner and over 3,000 instructor-led on-demand classes. At just $800 (and currently marked down even less than that), this Sole bike is just as budget-friendly as it is reliable.
What We Like
- Backlit LCD screen
- Adjustable seat, handlebars, and pedals
- Chest strap heart-rate compatible
What We Don't Like
- No clip-in pedal
- Turn dial resistance
Best Stationary Bike with Screen - Echelon GT + Connect
SPECS
- Overall dimensions: 54”L x 24”W x 57”H, 88 lb.
- Screen: Pairs with Echelon Fit app to track real-time performance, leaderboard ranking
- Shoes: SPD shoe clips with toe cage
- Features: Adjustable seat and handlebars, dumbbell rack, emergency stop brake, pulse sensors, and floor stabilizers
Echelon, maker of one of the industry-leading workout mirrors, brings the same passion for high-quality interactive fitness to its flagship spin bike, the GT+ connect. This isn’t just a bike: it’s a workout machine that targets the little inconveniences and discomforts that (let’s be honest) keep us from working out regularly.
For example, it adjusts easily to work for a wide variety of heights, including the shorter ones among us. Oversized padded comfort seat? Yes, please. How about 40+ daily live classes, plus thousands of on-demand workouts? All of that is loaded on the Echelon Fit App, which pairs with your bike and tracks every pedal, calorie, and mile along the way. And if you DON’T feel like getting pushed to the limit in a class (we’ve all been there), you can tap into the library of over 20 million songs and playlists. Or maybe you’re somewhere in the middle and you want to shake your booty on a bike in a class. They have special on-demand classes featuring music from Pitbull. ¡Dale!
What We Like
- Easily adjustable seat and handlebars
- 32 different difficulty levels, from super-light to a full grind
- Class teachers get great reviews for being caring, supportive, and energetic
- Enough classes and music choices to last a lifetime
- Enclosed spin wheel to protect kids and pets
What We Don't Like
- Class menus and categories can be confusing and overwhelming
- Small wheels on frame make it hard to move around house
BUY: Echelon GT + Connect Bike
Most Popular Exercise Bike - Peloton Stationary Bike
Specs
- Overall dimensions: 59”L X 23”W X 53”H
- Screen: 22” HD multitouch screen
- Shoes: Delta-compatible clip-in
- Features: Resistance knob, 2-channel rear-facing stereo speaker system with 16 watts of total power, USB microport, 3.5mm headphone jack, Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity, 5-megapixel front-facing camera, built-in microphone
Peloton hit the market in 2012, and shortly thereafter it developed a cult following. It’s easy to see what people like about the original Peloton bike. Its generous 22-inch screen keeps you focused on your workout while it tracks and displays metrics such as speed, resistance, heart rate, and output. You can even view your workout stats after each class to track your progress.
One thing that makes Peloton stand out among its competitors is its All-Access Membership, which grants you access to its huge library of content, including thousands of classes and training programs for both in and out of the saddle. One drawback is the $44/month membership fee, which may be hard to swallow after shelling out about $1,500 on the bike. Without the membership, you only have access to three programs so the price of the bike may not be worth it to some without the monthly membership.
What We Like
- Adjustable seat, handlebar, and screen
- Monthly subscription grants access to a huge library of content
- High customer rating
What We Don't Like
- No free membership trials with purchase
- Very limited programs available without paying for monthly all-access subscription
Best Peloton Alternative - NordicTrack S27i Studio Bike
Specs
- Overall dimensions: 57”L X 28”W X 65”H
- Screen: 27” Smart HD Touchscreen, 360° rotating
- Shoes: SPD clip-in and cage
- Features: Auto-adjust technology, handlebar adjustment lift assist, Bluetooth headphone connectivity, inertia-enhanced flywheel, ergonomic padded saddle, 30W premium sound
If you like a good-performing bike with plenty of bells and whistles but don’t want to jump on the Peloton bandwagon, the NordicTrack S27i is a great alternative. Like Peloton, it offers metric readouts to keep track of your performance, and an impressive catalog of streaming live events, on-demand workouts, and studio classes with the iFIT subscription. Plus, it comes with a few features that Peloton doesn’t have.
The NordicTrack S27i has a huge 27-inch Smart HD Touchscreen that rotates 360 degrees so you can easily hop off the saddle and continue your workout on the floor. It also comes with technology that automatically adjusts the resistance, incline, and decline based on trainer commands or workout terrain. The NordicTrack S27i does ring in about $1,000 more than the original Peloton, but financing options help lessen the sticker shock.
What We Like
- 360° rotating screen
- 30-day free iFIT trial
- Two 3-lb dumbbells included
What We Don't Like
- More expensive option
- Limited programs available without paying for a monthly iFIT subscription
BUY: NordicTrack S27i Studio Bike
Best Exercise Air Bike - Rogue Echo Bike
Specs
- Overall dimensions: 52.75" x 29.8" x 58.75"
- Screen: 6.4" LCD, battery operated
- Shoes: Flat
- Features: Magnetic resistance, steel belt-driven, and LCD screen
If you're really looking to up your heart rate and burn some serious calories, an air bike is an excellent way to do so. The Rogue Echo Bike is our pick in this category and consists of a 127-pound unit that offers a sturdy ride equipped to handle even the most intense interval training. Unique to most spin bikes, the Rogue Echo has movable handlebars, allowing the user to torch their upper body and enjoy a more comprehensive workout.
It uses a belt-driven steel fan blade to create an ultra-quiet, smooth ride. An LCD screen also displays intervals, distance, calories burned, and heart rate metrics so you can track your progress.
What We Like
- Sturdy build
- Detailed LCD console
- 2-way seat adjustment
- 350 lb. weight limit
What We Don't Like
- Does not include a water bottle cage
- No media holder
Best Value Exercise Bike - ProForm Carbon CX
Specs
- Overall dimensions: 51”L x 21.9”W x 52.5”H
- Screen: 3” LCD window display
- Shoes: Flat, optional to cages
- Features: Multi-position, adjustable handlebars, and seat, automatic resistance control technology, integrated tablet holder
Not everyone has $1,000-plus to drop on an exercise bike. For those looking for a good value, we like the ProForm Carbon CX, which rings in at just under $600. This bike syncs with iFIT, enabling you to stream outdoor rides to your phone or tablet following personal trainers. And during your workout, your bike automatically adjusts the tension to match your workout. You can also follow your time, speed, distance, and calories burned with the on-screen metrics display.
For the price, you get a good quality bike with solid steel construction. The inertia-enhanced flywheel with magnetic resistance provides a smooth, frictionless, and silent ride. Be aware that the ProForm Carbon CX doesn’t have a screen for viewing iFIT content—you’ll need your own tablet or smartphone for that. But, it does come with an adjustable tablet holder.
What We Like
- 16 digital levels of resistance
- 30-day free iFIT trial
- Two 3-lb. dumbbells included
What We Don't Like
- Tablet not included
- Limited programs available without paying for a monthly iFIT subscription
Best Luxury Exercise Bike - Sole Fitness Sole SB900
Specs
- Overall dimensions: 40”L X 21”W X 42”H
- Screen: 3” X 4” LCD display
- Shoes: SPD clip-in and cage
- Features: Chest strap compatible, integrated console displays workout metrics, chrome-plated flywheel, magnetic braking design, integrated tablet holder
If you like the Sole SB700 (our Best Overall pick), you'll love the Sole SB900 model. The bikes look the same—both have a heavy-duty 48-inch flywheel and adjustable seats and handlebars. But, there are some distinct differences with the stepped-up SB900 model. For one, the SB900 feels much more durable and stable, weighing a full 20 pounds more than the SB700.
The SB900 also has some premium features that the SB700 doesn’t have, such as manual magnetic resistance to help set the level of intensity as opposed to felt pad friction brakes. Magnetic resistance provides a much quieter ride. Plus, it comes with a dual pedal option for SPD shoes on one side and cages with straps for normal athletic shoes on the other. As with the SB700, the SB900 only has a small LCD display for workout metrics. But if you want to take advantage of the Studio program membership, you’ll need your own smart device.
What We Like
- Great sales make this a very affordable luxury bike
- Competitive-priced monthly membership to Studio programs and discount for pre-paid annual membership
- 90-day free trial of Studio membership
What We Don't Like
- Tablet not included
- Small display screen
Best Exercise Bike for Home - Diamondback Fitness 910ic Indoor Cycle Magnetic Trainer
Specs
- Overall dimensions: 49"L X 22"W X 46.5"H
- Screen: Basic workout data display
- Shoes: Flat, caged
- Features: adjustable seat and handlebars, polar heart rate compatible, 12 workout programs, and 32 resistance levels
If you're looking for an exercise bike that provides a solid at-home workout without a steep learning curve or fancy accessories, the Diamondback Fitness 910ic is worth checking out. With a heavy flywheel capable of 32 resistance levels and high RPM for a range of intensities, you can alternate between varying speeds, challenging yourself with interval work. The multi-position handlebars allow different muscle groups to be used to mimic dynamic gym spin classes. And with 12 workout programs to choose from, you have a wide range of options to keep you motivated from home.
Plus, a wireless heart rate monitor helps you track your progress. A self-generating electronic resistance system also means you can use this bike indoors or outside (like on your deck or patio) whenever you're craving a change in scenery.
What We Like
- 12 workout programs
- Multi-position handlebars
- High RPM capacity
- 32 resistance levels
- No power or electricity needed to ride
What We Don't Like
- No clip-in pedal
- Users should be taller than 5'3"
BUY: Diamondback Fitness 910ic Indoor Cycle Magnetic Trainer
Best Exercise Bike Under $1000 - Sunny Premium Indoor Cycling Smart Stationary Bike
Specs
- Overall dimensions: 50.8"L x 23.4"W x 47.6"H
- Screen: Digital monitor
- Shoes: Clip-In/Caged pedals
- Features: Micro-adjustable resistance levels, device holder, Bluetooth capabilities, and bottle holder
The Premium Indoor Cycling Smart Stationary Bike from Sunny Heath is versatile, comfortable, and adjustable. The handles are equipped with hand pulse sensors for monitoring your fitness status. There’s also a digital monitor that keeps track of distance, calories, time, speed, odometer readings, and more.
For being under $1,000, this exercise bike offers tons of features. Use the micro-adjustable resistance levels to get the perfect workout. Plus, the seat adjustment capabilities and dual pedal types help you sit comfortably through the longest rides. You can even mount your tablet to follow different workout apps.
What We Like
- Smooth and quiet ride
- Transportation wheels for easy movement
- 4-way adjustable seat and handlebars
What We Don't Like
- No backrest
BUY: Sunny Premium Indoor Cycling Smart Stationary Bike
Best Folding Exercise Bike - XTERRA FB150 Folding Bike
Specs
- Overall dimensions: 31.89"L x 18.1"W x 43.40"H, folds to 18.1" x 18.1" x 51"
- Screen: 2" x 1" basic data display
- Shoes: Flat, caged
- Features: Battery-powered display, high-density foam seat, magnetic resistance, 8 resistance levels, and heart rate sensor grips
Whether your home is tight on space or you're looking for a portable piece of gym equipment, the foldable XTERRA stationary bike is a great option for tucking away when not in use. It features a comfortable anatomically designed seat, eight resistance levels, and handlebar sensors to help you break a sweat until you fold it back up and stash it away. Lightweight and compact, it also comes with a smooth flywheel that uses magnetic resistance.
An LCD screen shows basic metrics like speed, distance, time, and calories, the XTERRA bike also comes with wheels for easy transport. At just $250, this bike is a good choice for budget bike shoppers who want to up their cardio game without overspending.
What We Like
- 8 resistance levels
- Weighs just 32 lbs.
- Folds to 18.1" x 18.1" of floor space
What We Don't Like
- Small display
- User weight limit of 225 lbs.
- Not good for athletes over 5'10"
BUY: XTERRA FB150 Folding Bike
Will An Exercise Bike Help My Performance?
When it comes to performing an effective cardio workout with limited space, it's hard to beat a stationary bike. If you lack the room for a dedicated home gym, their size profile makes them ideal for small spaces. Stationary bikes are a standout option for low-impact cardio and lower-body strength. Many brands also incorporate features like moving handles and leaning to achieve a full-body workout, helping to target your upper body more. So, if you're trying to cut down your cycle studio membership expenses, it's time to invest in a home stationary bike.
Stationary Bike Factors to Consider
Types of Exercise Bikes
You've probably noticed that while stationary bikes all have a few familiar structural similarities—pedals, wheels, handlebars—they can otherwise look quite different. The machines that most resemble one another probably fall in the same exercise bike type:
- Recumbent: A recumbent exercise bike comes with a backrest and thus can be used in a reclined position. These are great for riders with lower back pain who still want to get a good workout in.
- Spinner: Spinner bikes, also known as spin bikes, generally have seats that are almost level with the handlebars, putting the cyclist in an aerodynamic position akin to a Tour de France rider. Spin bikes are a great choice for people looking to up the cardio burn and increase workout intensity. Check out the best shoes for spin bikes here.
- Upright: Upright bikes look and feel similar to spin bikes, given that both mimic the IRL cycling experience. However, the upright bikes more closely imitate a casual outdoor bike because the handles are higher than the seat, making for a more relaxed exercise position. The pedals are also right under your feet, as opposed to out in front of you.
- Dual-action: Dual-action exercise bikes have a similar appearance and function to upright exercise bikes. The difference: moving handlebars, which allow you to incorporate arm movements while cycling for a full-body workout experience.
Flywheel Types
The type of flywheel, which is the wheel at the front of your bike, will determine a lot about your stationary bike, like its general feeling, noise level, and weight.
- Direct-contact flywheel: With direct-contact resistance, also known as friction resistance, you use manual gears or digital inputs to modulate friction on the flywheel. This lets you increase or decrease your cycling intensity. This method often found on lower-end exercise bikes, is louder and prone to needing mechanical fixes.
- Magnetic: Magnetic force creates resistance with this flywheel type. Because the magnets never physically touch the flywheel, the magnetic force is applied as the magnets move toward or away from the flywheel. This makes magnetic cycle bikes whisper quiet.
- Fan: Fan-based cycling bikes use air to regulate resistance in the flywheel. Your pedaling powers the fan's air blade, meaning more noise but also a neat, built-in cooling apparatus.
Resistance Control
An exercise bike will almost always have some sort of mechanism to modulate the resistance, aka how hard you have to push to pedal. Some bikes will be manually adjustable, where you turn a knob on the bike to change resistance while on others, resistance will be digitally programmed, where a tap of a button on the console can adjust resistance levels. With air bikes, the amount of exertion you give determines the resistance.
Extra Features
Many higher-end indoor cycling bikes will come with more technological bells and whistles: heart rate monitors for on-the-spot fitness tracking, fancy, crystal clear LCD screens, and Bluetooth connectivity. It's up to you to decide what you'll need to achieve your best possible workout. If you want something cheaper or don't need the extra features, there are plenty of options that will include a place to mount your smartphone or tablet and hold your water bottles.
READ THIS NEXT: How to Incorporate Indoor Cycling Into Your Running Routine
FAQs About Exercise Bikes
Is 30 minutes on a stationary bike enough?
The answer to this question largely depends on your personal fitness goals. By exercising on a stationary bike for 30 minutes, you can expect to burn anywhere from 200 to 300 calories based on your individual weight, resistance level on the bike, and the intensity with which you're biking. For most people, cycling for 30 minutes is a long enough time to get a solid workout in, whether you're riding at a moderate pace or performing HIIT (high-intensity interval training).
Are there any benefits to riding a stationary bike?
There are many benefits to riding a stationary bike, the main one being improving your overall cardio endurance level. Biking is a great way to become better at cardio while still protecting your joints that would otherwise take a hit in more high-impact exercises like running or jogging. By consistently exercising on a stationary bike, you can also strengthen your lower body muscles and burn fat. If there are dynamic handlebars that allow for leaning or other movements, you can target your upper body as well. Not to mention, riding a stationary bike is also safer than cycling on the road since you can perform this exercise from either the comfort of your home or at a gym.
Is a stationary bike better than a treadmill?
A stationary bike isn't necessarily better than the other—it's more about which one works better for you. Stationary bikes offer low-impact workouts with less risk of overuse injury, making them excellent for improving general fitness or as cross-training for runners. Treadmills, while great for improving endurance and performing interval training, tend to be harder on joints like the knees when used for a long period of time.