Stationary Bikes Exercise Bikes | Buy Guide And Review
Stationary Bikes Exercise Bikes
L NOW Exercise Bike Indoor Cycling Bike
【Whisper Quiet】Magnetic resistance and belt drive system create an unbelievably smooth and nearly silent ride, this bike is very suitable for indoor exercise. It will NEVER disturb the families or roommate and virtually no maintenance requested
【Solid Build】The solid type frame, 50mm thickened frame tube and 350lbs max user weight give this indoor cycling bike a rock solid build. 4 horizontal adjustment knobs under the front and rear stabilizer to keep the bike stable on different surfaces, the bike provides you a safe riding
【Fully Adjustable】The wide seat is completely adjustable to fit those users with different heights (Suitable inseam: Max 35.4″-Min 22.5″). The steel toe-caged pedals are designed with adjustable straps, it can fit for different size feet well. There is also a convenient adjustable knob, with a simple twist, you can adjust the resistance to fulfill different workout plans
【Magnetic Resistance】Virtually no maintenance, micro-adjustable resistance creates an unbelievably smooth ride creating multiple levels of riding for enthusiasts of all levels. Belt drive mechanism
【Safe & Convenient】Emergency stop brake and handlebar-adjust tube bump for safety. Multi-use holder can support the tablet, phones, water bottle, and other things. 2 transportation wheels for easy movement and digital monitor for easy tracking workout data
L NOW Exercise Bike Indoor Cycling Bike
- This smooth and quiet indoor exercise bike makes your riding more convenient and effective even in your house, Because of the belt drive system, You won’t disturb anyone in your home. Fully adjustable seat and adjustable handlebar offer a completely customizable experience for ultimate user comfort and compatibility. Equipped with one metal bottle holder. your long-term ride won’t be so boring anymore. Transportation wheels make it easy to move. Maximum weight up to 350lbs.
- Equip with display
- Materials: Steel
- Flywheel: 35lbs
- Overall Dimensions: 41”x 21” x 52”
- Max weight supporting capacity: 350lbs
- Resistance type: Magnetic Resistance
- Press the adjust knob, Stop the bike immediately
leikefitness LEIKE X Bike Ultra-Quiet Folding Exercise Bike
【2-in-1 Frame】This leikefitness spinning bike can be used as an Upright and Recumbent Exercise Bike to maximize your workout and utilize different muscles.
【10 level magnetron resistance】Customize your home exercise bike routine with 10-levels of adjustable magnetic tension control system.The exercise bike ideal for both beginners and professional athletes;
【Non-noise without disturbing the neighbours】There is no impact of foot trample, so there will be no noise naturally. Moreover, there is magnetron resistance to ensure the quiet and silent cycling process;
【Aesthetic design of details】Comfortable pedal,tread soft, moderate tightnes;Wide Seat & Foldable Backrest;7 levels adjustable seat height for different users;
【Real-time data at a glance】Hd electronic dial, all sports data display in real time ;Heart rate handrail design, monitor your heart rate in real time.
Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike
Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike by Sunny Health & Fitness – SF-B0418
By Sunny Health & Fitness
Burn some extras calories during your productive days at work or while watching TV, with the new Sunny Health & Fitness Mini Exercise bike that can be easily used under your work desk due to its portability and size. It features a reliable and quiet magnetic system, with 8 Level micro tension knob that allows for a moderate or intense resistance. The Digital displays Time, Speed, Distance, ODM, Calories. Mini Exercise Bike comes with safety pedal straps, that work well with both feet and hands.
- Magnetic mini stationary bike with handle for easy portability
- Safety pedal straps, pedals work well with both feet and hands
- 8 Level micro tension controller
- LCD displays Time, Speed, Distance, ODM, Calories
- 220 lbs maximum user weight
- Place the cycle on-top of a desk or table and you can even use it as an arm exerciser
DeskCycle Under Desk Cycle,Pedal Exerciser – Stationary Mini Exercise Bike
STAY FIT IN THE OFFICE – Our high-quality portable under desk bike keeps you focused, improves productivity and burns calories at your home desk or in the office
WORKS WITH LOW DESKS – As low as 27 inches
PATENTED MAGNETIC RESISTANCE MECHANISM- Quiet, smooth, and healthy pedal motion – great for your joints, and lets you focus on your work
8 CALIBRATED RESISTANCE SETTINGS – from very easy to challenging and more than 2x the range of other pedal exercisers!
1000 MINUTE, 5 FUNCTION LCD DISPLAY – shows speed, time, distance, calories and scan; Online calorie burned calculator available
Joint-free, low-impact cycling helps you conveniently burn calories while sitting.
Active circulation enhances productivity, increases energy, and improves mood.
From fitness enthusiasts to fidgety children, the DeskCycle works for everyone.
Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Bike Exercise Bike
HANDLEBARS: Moveable handlebars transform the recumbent bike into the ultimate low impact fitness machine. Handlebars move back/forth while pedaling to increase the amount of effort during the entire movement resulting in increased calories burned
PULSE SENSORS: Integrated pulse sensors to read heart beats per minute
8 LEVELS OF RESISTANCE: Magnetic resistance systems allows users from all different fitness levels to achieve a challenging effective work-out.
OVER SIZED SEAT AND BACK: The large seat supports the hips and seat back to ensure correct posture and increase comfort during the workout
PEDALS: The non-slip adjustable foot pedals have a large surface area to push hard and keep users feet stable during the entire pedal stroke. The adjustable straps keep users feet secure and avoid from sliding forward or to the side
EASY ADJUSTABLE SEAT: Seat will move while still seated to find the optimal distance to the pedals and handle bars
EXTENDED WEIGHT CAPACITY:The sturdy heavy duty frame can accommodate weights up to 350 lbs.
TRANSPORTATION WHEELS: Built in wheels make portability convenient
Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Bike Exercise Bike, 350lb High Weight Capacity, Cross Training, Arm Exercisers – SF-RB4708
By Sunny Health & Fitness
Achieve a full body workout and burn more calories with Cross Training Magnetic Recumbent Bike. The moveable handle bars transform this recumbent bike into the ultimate low impact home fitness machine. Handle bars move back and forth while pedaling involving, the arms, back, and shoulders, this will increase the amount of effort during the entire movement resulting in increased calorie expenditure. Maximum weight capacity of 350 lb accommodates most users. Portable wheels make moving simple.
- Digital monitor measures speed, time, distance, calories, and total distance
- Adjustable Inseam Height Min 26.5 in / Max 34 in
- Multi-control magnetic resistance system
- Max User Weight: 350 lb
- Product Weight: 94.8 lb
- Product Dimensions: 60L x 25.5W x 52H inches
10 Tips: How to Choose the Right Exercise Bike
A squeaking stationary bike, an uncomfortable seat, an exercise bike without resistance… follow our buying tips and advice to avoid bad surprises! Here are the 10 most important criteria to look for when choosing an exercise bike.
1) The flywheel weight: comfort and fluidity
The flywheel weight determines the comfort and fluidity of cycling. The higher is the weight, the more fluid and comfortable will the cycling be on the stationary bike. When the flywheel is too light, you may feel jolts when pedaling. The flywheel weight that you choose will therefore depend on your goals, whether you aim for climbing Mont Ventoux or simply cycling peacefully around the lake, and secondly on your budget, rather 300-600€ or towards 1.000€ or more.
| Flywheel weight | Profile / Usage | Exercise Bikes |
|---|---|---|
| > 15 kg | Experienced | Kettler Racer S |
| 9-14 kg | Sporty / Reeducation | DKN AM-3i, Skandika Cardiobike |
| 7-9 kg | Beginner | BH Fitness i.Pixel |
OUR ADVICE : We recommend to choose a stationary bike with a flywheel of at least 7 kg for a comfortable pedaling without bumps. If you plan to exercise 2 to 3 times a week, you should consider a stationary bike with a flywheel above 9 kg.
2) The resistance : mechanical or magnetic?
The mechanical resistance is activated by turning the adjustment wheel on the stationary bike, whereas the magnetic resistance can be directly modified from the bike’s console (controlling a magnet that comes into contact with the wheel of the bike). Only the magnetic resistance allows you to have predefined workout programs with dynamic change of the resistance.
3) The Watts
The watts are a unit of measure of your pedaling power and are a good indication of the maximal power a bike can provide. High watts enable you to have a more precise and efficient training exercise. For example the stationary bike Kettler Ergo S has got a maximum of 600 watts. On the other hand the exercise bike Skandika Cardiobike Ulisses has got a maximum of 350 Watts.
4) The console: with or without Bluetooth ?
The stationary bike’s console had not been changing for ages… although our phones and screens keep evolving! The Bluetooth connection remedied that awkward (and unacceptable) situation since it allows to connect a smartphone, an iPhone, iPad or tablet to the exercise bike wirelessly and use it as the bike’s console.It is then possible to control the bike’s resistance directly from one’s smartphone, create new training programs and customize them, follow one’s training stats and even play a video game which is interactive with the speed and the resistance of the stationary bike (see the ). The Bluetooth is therefore a must!
5) The seat: adjustable?
Make sure the seat can be adjusted vertically to be able to adjust it to the height of your hips as it will prevent you from hurting your back and joints. The horizontal adjustment is a plus but is not necessary.
6) The handlebars: adjustable as well?
Make sure that the height of the handlebars can be adjusted so that you will be able to find your optimal position on the bike.
7) Upright bike or recumbent bike?
The stationary bike that we all know is the upright bike. The recumbent bike has a back support and enables you to seat properly on what looks like a chair. The recumbent bike is less demanding than the upright bike. Moreove, the range of the recumbent bikes is much more limited.
8) Maximum user weight supported
Have a look at the maximum user weight before buying your exercise bike. The stationary bikes from middle and high range usually support up to 130-150 kg whereas the cheapest models only allow up to 90-100 kg.
9) The design
Design both means the “industrial” conception or design but also its appearance (which is also important!). Look carefully at the material before buying your stationary bike: Are the pieces in metal (more durable) or in plastic? And choose an exercise bike that you like since it will probably stay in your bedroom or your living room!
10) Last but not least: the price of the exercise bike!
The price of an exercise bike may vary a lot, unfortunately like its quality! A 150 € bike is obviously much less robust than a 650 € bike, it has usually not the same pedaling fluidity and comfort (see 1. flywheel weight) and may be loud or even squeak after some time (even some days for the lowest quality stationary bikes). It is therefore recommended to think twice before buying a cheap exercise bike that won’t last more than a few weeks… and maybe invest a bit more in quality and durability. After all, good health and condition have no price 😉 almost! According to these criteria, our favorite at the moment is the DKN AM-3i.
Questions
What Muscles does a Stationary Bike Work?
The exercise bike offers a great cardio workout that is generally soft and smooth but it can also be very demanding, especially when the pedaling resistance is set at a very high level, and then have a significant effect on your calves and leg muscles, thighs and buttocks. In addition, cycling gives you well refined muscles since riding on a stationary bike involves a steady effort without jerks.
First and foremost, the exercise bike works out the most important of all muscles, namely your heart! Riding a stationary bike also has many health benefits, increases your endurance and stamina, and is an ideal sport to lose weight. The exercise bike can help you build muscle and target specific parts of your body, which is essential if you want to refine your body. The advantage with the stationary bike is that you can choose and modulate how much you want to work your muscles. The more you increase the pedaling resistance of your bike, the more you work your muscles and develop your muscle mass.
The muscles that work on a stationary bike
Besides the heart, the muscles targeted by the stationary bike are first the leg and thigh muscles as well as the buttocks (or glutes) and then the abdominals and back muscles.
You are not going to have beautiful thin legs or the perfect buttocks overnight without effort! For that, you need to workout regularly and be constant. You’ll see the results after a few weeks. Be patient and persistent and you will see the effect of the exercise bike on your body. If you want to track the evolution of your muscle mass, you can do it with a body fat scale.
In general, you should start seeing the first effects after a few weeks, about 4 to 6 weeks. Your legs, thighs and buttocks are more firm. And your workout should also feel easier and less demanding after 4 to 6 weeks than it was at the very beginning. After 6 weeks, continue working out at this pace and eventually increase the duration and intensity of your exercises, not too much though because doing too much could have a negative impact on your motivation.
After 2 to 3 months, you should clearly see that your legs, your thighs and your buttocks are much more muscular than when you started exercising. Your muscle mass has increased and your fat mass decreased so that your body shape has become more athletic.
Does the exercise bike make your legs and thighs bigger? Don’t worry: cycling regularly will not make your legs or your thighs fatter! The exercise bike offers a cardio workout (cardio training) that will tone and refine your legs, thighs and buttocks. If you want to increase the volume of your muscles, then you will have to combine regular training on an exercise bike for 1 hour every day or even more at a very high resistance level with weight training to build muscle. Moreover, the results are (unfortunately) not coming overnight … you must persevere ;).
It all depends on your goal: lose weight (and fat) and tone your muscles or gain muscle mass and volume?
1. To tone and strengthen your legs and thighs muscles and get strong buttocks, you can for instance do a HIIT training on your stationary bike 2 times a week for 30 to 45 minutes, alternating between high intensity phases and recovery phases. Increase the resistance of your bike during the high intensity phases in order to make your muscles work. You should alternate HIIT with cardio workouts of 45 to 60 minutes or more once or twice a week in order to burn fat (aerobic exercise). You will combine fat and weight loss during cardio workout with muscle growth during HIIT training.
2. To muscle your legs and thighs, you can focus almost exclusively on HIIT training with high increases in the pedaling resistance of the bike. For example, you can do 3 to 5 HIIT workouts per week for 20 to 30 minutes.
Here are two exercise bike training plans for gaining muscle and losing weight (N ° 1) and for a greater muscle growth (N ° 2):
Training Plan – N°1
• Combined Cardio & HIIT Workout on Monday (30 to 45 min)
• Cardio Workout at a medium intensity on Thursday (45 to 60 min)
• HIIT Training every Saturday (20-30 min)
Training Plan High Intensity N°2
• HIIT Workout on Monday and Wednesday (20 to 30 min)
• Cardio Workout on Thursday (30 to 60 min)
• HIIT Training on Saturday (30 to 45 min)
The exercise bike is the perfect sports to tone and strengthen legs, thighs and buttocks but also to work the arms, abs and back muscles. Always start your training session with a warm-up at moderate intensity for 5 to 10 minutes and gradually increase the resistance of your stationary bike. The higher the resistance, the more your muscles work. It takes (a little) time to get results, gain muscle and get rid of fat. Perseverance is the key to success 😉
- The quadriceps and the harmstrings, muscles of the front and the back of the thigh, are constantly working while you are pedaling.
- The gluteal muscles or glutes (large, medium and small buttocks), also called glutes, are also working out when you are pushing the pedals.
- The calf muscles, called triceps sural, located at the back of the leg.
The muscles of the lower limb (in red on the diagram) are mostly working while you are exercising on your stationary bike. The muscles of the upper limb are also working, though to a lesser extent than your legs, thighs, calves and buttocks.
The muscles in the upper part of the body
- The abdominal muscles or abs ensure the posture and the balance of the pelvis and the spine.
- The back muscles, the quadratus lumborum muscle and iliopsoas (in yellow on the diagram), also help to maintain your position and support the spine.
- The biceps and triceps, muscles from the front and back of the arms, allow you to hold the handlebars. The arm muscles (in green on the diagram) work more when you tighten the handlebars, especially when sprinting, or when you are riding out of the saddle with high resistance.
When you are pedaling out of the saddle with high resistance, you put more pressure on your arm muscles (biceps and triceps) and on the muscles of the lower back while your thigh muscles (quadriceps) and your buttocks work less because you are using the weight of your whole body to cycle and thus your legs have less effort to provide.
Make sure you have a good position on your exercise bike and you set the saddle at the right height in order to avoid any problem, tendinitis or muscle pain.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW: Your muscles need resistance to work! The more you increase the pedaling resistance of your exercise bike, the more strength you need to provide and the more you work your muscles. On the contrary, if the pedaling resistance is too low, you will hardly increase your muscle mass.