Our Picks for the Best Exercise Bike

Schwinn Airdyne AD4

Our Rating:

Voted Best Exercise Bike Overall by Gean-Edwards.com

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Schwinn 240

Our Rating:

Voted Best Recumbent Exercise Bike by Gean-Edwards.com

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Stamina 5325

Our Rating:

Voted Best Upright Exercise Bike by Gean-Edwards.com

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Exercise bikes come in two separate styles; Upright, and Recumbent. Recumbent bike’s are styled in such a manner that the person riding it is sitting down with a backrest, with his legs stretched out to the front of him. Upright bike’s are styled more vertically, and has the appearance that the person is riding a normal bicycle. Which is actually better between the two still continues to be debated today between bike enthusiasts and fitness experts. Some consumers have said to enjoy the comfort of Recumbent bikes because of the backrest. However a downside to that is that because of the way these Recumbent bikes are styled, the workout is slower, and less intense. Other consumers prefer the more “authentic” feel of Upright bike’s because they feel alot like they are riding an actual, non-stationary bike. These kinds of bike’s also receive their share of complaints from consumers (hard seats). In any case, the best exercise bike in regards to style appears to be a matter of preference, as there has been no reported real benefit to using one over the other.

What to look for

1. Goals – Before buying an exercise bike, regardless if its recumbent or upright, you must first consider what your goals are, and if you are really serious about achieving them. Having the right mindset from the start is the key to getting the most out of your exercise equipment. By creating a set of goals, it will increase your work output, and your overall use of the item.

2. Features – Try to make sure that your desired bike has the basic functionality with the most common (the “norm”) of features; Multiple resistance levels, an LCD display, and an adjustable seat, and varying programmable options being the most important. Having an on-board HRM (Heart Rate Monitor) is also a great feature, because it will allow you to keep good track of your target heart rate. Most bike’s now have handgrip monitors that do not require a chest strap.

3. Customization Settings – Your bike should have the ability to easily adjust the height. The seat should be comfortable, however in most cases the seat isnt comfortable, so consumers have advised buying a separate seat, or even a bike cover to avoid the stiff, uncomfortable seat that usually comes with the bike. Also, look for a shrouded wheel and chain to prevent children from being able to hurt their fingers from the machine.

4. Pedals – Make sure that the pedals are wide with some sort of strap to make sure that your foot stays inside.

5. Stability – Make sure that your bike is heavy, and sturdy. The heavier the better. Heaviness will determine how stable the bike will be, and will prevent it swaying from side to side with the possibility of you falling off while in intense workout sessions.

6. Warranty – A warranty is always the best idea, and we don’t suggest buying any type of exercise equipment without one. To some it would seem like a no brainer, but a lot of people buy these types of machines and forget about getting a warranty, only to have something happen to the machine and not be able to get a replacement. A warranty is also good because it can cover any malfunction or faulty parts on the manufacturers end.