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The Best Stationary Bikes for Better Indoor Exercise

Pedal into your best self yet with these high-performing home fitness machines.

By Ben Emminger

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Thanks to their compact sizes, versatile designs and easy-to-use nature, stationary bikes remain one of the most popular home gym machines on the market. Plus, today’s environment has a slew of worthwhile brands offering engaging courses and live, on-demand workouts for the sake of more intriguing training — a highlight once reserved for a singular company that seemed to take the home gym sector by storm.

Yet still, while the brands have caught up to one another in terms of performance, the question still remains: which is the best stationary bike for your needs? To help cipher through the crowded market, we spoke to Gregg Wilson, product manager at Nautilus, to identify some key factors to consider when choosing an indoor cycling rig, as well as why the equipment category as a whole has remained popular throughout the years.

Products in the Guide

How We Tested

Naturally, having an arsenal of indoor cycling rigs side-by-side is a tall order for any budding home gym enthusiast, but thankfully, we’ve been at this fitness thing for a while now and have had the pleasure of saddling up atop many of the below picks. Qualities including how large the stationary bikes were in storage, how effective the workouts were in practice and how seamless the adjustments were mid-training all played a role in the curation of this guide. Plus, it’s hard to deny how prevalent our apps are in our fitness regimens, so we also looked at how integrative these bikes were with our favorite training platforms like Strava, Zwift and other services.

To learn more about our testing methodology and how we evaluate products, head here.

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The Best Stationary Bikes

Best Overall Stationary Bike

Pros

  • Compatible with Peloton and Zwift apps for easier workout integration
  • Pedals with toe-clips and clipless options offer a closer feel to on-road cycling

Cons

  • Complex set up that can take away from training
  • A larger, heavier footprint limits where you store and house this fitness equipment option

The VeloCore Bike feels like it’s playing in its own world. The adjustable touchscreen isn’t just a way to engage with a rich offering of guided classes and customized workouts; it’s a portal to scads of digital rides across the globe, from the deserts of Utah to the canals of Amsterdam. That’s all before adding in the lean function that gives this indoor bike its moniker.

In a snap, the VeloCore becomes an interactive platform that allows you to lean left and right of center, engaging your core muscles for a surprisingly intense workout. And, if you tire of the gut-busting guided session and scenic rides, we really appreciated how simple it was to log into the top streaming services — Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Prime Video and HBO Max — to binge our favorite shows.

Best Upgrade Stationary Bike

Pros

  • Premium training experiences that rival on-road cycling
  • Exceptional stability regardless of training intensity

Cons

  • Some athletes complain of a cramped thigh positioning in relation to the seatpost
  • Easily one of the most expensive indoor cycling setups on the market

Need an indoor cycling setup that rivals your on-road rig? Consider this impressive build from Garmin. The Tacx Neo Bike Plus is one of the closest simulations to actual cycling we’ve found, and the built-in quality is top notch from the cranks to the saddle. There’s even a pair of integrated fans across the handlebars to help you stay cool throughout training.

The Tacx Neo Bike Plus is also plenty sturdy, which can be a breath of fresh air when rising out of the saddle and pushing your intensity toward newfound levels. Unfortunately,, all this performance comes at a heavy cost: at nearly $4,000, this Garmin rig is one of the mot expensive indoor cycling setups you can choose.

Best Budget Stationary Bike

Pros

  • 4-way adjustable seat and 2-way adjustable handlebars serve up a comfortable riding experience
  • Very approachable platform that welcomes novice and veteran riders, alike

Cons

  • Not as stable as other indoor bikes on this list — make sure all bolts are tightened properly
  • Basic LCD monitor doesn’t offer up the bells and whistles of other indoor bikes

Yosuda’s YB001 is surprisingly likable despite its shockingly low price. The flywheel is smooth and quiet, and it has a massive range of resistance, making it good for even fairly strong riders. You sit in an upright, comfortable position, and the seat is adjustable for many heights. With so much going for it, however, this indoor bike could benefit from an enhanced interface — its basic LCD monitor only displays your time, speed, distance and calories burned. However, it’s still one of the most popular bikes on the market because of its approachability. The Yosuda YB001 is a no-frills bike — but it’s no-frills done right in our opinion.

Best Stationary Bike for Live Classes

Pros

  • Impressive library of live and on-demand courses
  • Rotating display allows for on- and off-bike workouts

Cons

  • Peloton app subscription is practically a must-have
  • Only compatible with Delta cycling cleats

In today’s day and age, it’s actually more impressive if you haven’t heard of Peloton indoor cycling bikes. The brand’s premium offering, the Bike+, is a go-to silhouette for athletes wanting that signature live and on-demand training experience, as the ever-growing library still offers some of the best, most engaging workouts in the space. If you’re thinking about Peloton as a solution to your home gym dilemmas, odds are is that you landed on the brand for the digital platform rather than the quality of the bike itself (not that there’s anything wrong with that).

As such, though, there are some pitfalls when it comes to this widely-recognized indoor cycling setup. For one, those that don’t cycle with Delta clips will need to pick up a new pair of cycling shoes. Additionally, the Peloton app subscription is practically a must-have when it comes to this rig. While some apps are compatible with the Bike+ setup, the equipment is more attuned, naturally, to the brand’s own services, which are be more costly than some other platforms.

Best Stationary Bike for On-Demand Courses

Pros

  • Large display provides excellent pictures mid-training
  • Incline and decline settings better mimic on-road cycling

Cons

  • Can be difficult to assemble for some
  • Over 200-pound frame can be strenuous to move

If you want a well-developed library of training courses yet don’t necessarily care for the live renditions, consider this NordicTrack indoor cycling silhouette powered by the brand’s expansive iFit library of workouts. The 22-inch, rotating display only adds to the at-home training possibilities, too, allowing for off-bike workouts that go beyond the typical pedals, climbs and finishes.

There’s also a good sense of stability when in the saddle of this stationary bike, mostly due to its 205-pound frame. While this weight can be great for instilling confidence mid-training, it can make for a cumbersome moving process if you need to switch your settings into a different room. Additionally, some have claimed that at-home assembly can be a bit of a chore, so be sure to clear enough time in your schedule to get this impressive machine built properly before scheduling out your regimen for the week.

Best Stationary Bike for Beginners

Pros

  • Small footprint, perfect for riders with less available space
  • Compatible with Zwift and other platforms for a variety of training opportunities

Cons

  • Interactive training routines require a separate tablet, no built-in screen available
  • RPM Tracker can click at times, which can prove to be a minor annoyance if not working out with headphones

The C6 is a Goldilocks option for those looking for an indoor bike that can offer guided digital training sets — albeit through the use of your own tablet — while holding true to a rugged analog feel. Compact yet ergonomic, the C6 is easy to jump on and ride out of the box and offers a smooth feel, quiet flywheel and simple backlit LCD metric console to help you keep your eye on cadence, resistance and output. Taking it to the next level is easy with the JRNY app, too, which allows you to convert the C6 into a more immersive digital trainer. We also appreciated the C6’s compatibility with Zwift and other platforms, allowing us to fine-tune our training to our personal needs and desires.

Best Stationary Bike for Minimalists

Pros

  • Sturdy frame doesn’t jostle during workouts
  • Included free weights adds versatility to your training regimen

Cons

  • LCD display is not as advanced as others in this guide
  • App integration can lag according to some

Not every athlete needs all the bells and whistles associated with today’s fitness environment. If that’s you, consider the Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike. The no-frills profile is perfect for delivering a damn fine workout experience, and the included three-pound free weights also allow for off-bike exercises as well. Plus, the sturdy frame can be great for creating that rock-solid base for novice indoor cyclists just learning the ropes of the discipline.

While this indoor stationary bike can be great for a number of athletes, it’s not an absolute solution of every indoor cyclist. The LCD screen is pretty minimalist when compared to others in this roundup, and the app integration is somewhat buggy, according to some testers. For those that just want to pedal across their weekly goals, this could be a great solution. For athletes wanting a more involved training experience, however, it may be best to look elsewhere.

Best Stationary Bike for Multitasking

sole fitness sb900Amazon

SOLE Fitness SB900 2020Sole Fitness SB900 Lightweight Indoor Stationary Bike

Pros

  • Sturdy steel frame promotes exceptional durability, and a lifetime frame warranty instills even more confidence in the build quality
  • 48-pound flywheel creates a smooth pedaling cadence without unnecessary noise

Cons

  • Smaller LCD display may be difficult to read at times
  • No fan for added comfort, which can lead to more sweat-drenched training

While we found this indoor bike to be rather cumbersome to move, once you get the SB900 set up in your desired spot in front of your monitor or screen, the training possibilities are top-notch. Our tester appreciated the analog experience as it didn’t compromise their viewing, and the magnetic resistance across the 48-pound flywheel provides a smooth riding setup without any added noise or whirring.

We also enjoyed the easy-to-navigate adjustment points across this sleek indoor bike, and the LCD display provides the right amount of data, provided you work out in a well-lit room. This can be avoided, though, if you track your metrics across a fitness tracker or smartwatch instead of the on-bike module. Also, we should note that the SB900 doesn’t include a built-in fan, so be prepared with a sweat towel or water bottle at the ready to help keep your body hydrated and comfortable.

Best Fan-Driven Stationary Bike

Pros

  • Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity for easier tracking and training sessions
  • No electricity required

Cons

  • Fan-driven can be a loud training experience
  • Heavier frame can be cumbersome to move

Fan-driven bikes can be a great solution for athletes wanting complete control of their training, as your resistance is determined by how hard you push yourself mid-workout. The faster you pedal, the more drag created through the fan, and this Pro X model from Assault Fitness is one of our favorites. We enjoy the sturdy, stainless steel frame that promotes exceptional durability, and the Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity is a welcome perk to help monitor your stats and progress throughout your workouts, too.

Additionally, the AssaultBike Pro X is fairly flexible in its placement, since there’s no electricity required to operate the machine (minus the batteries for the LCD screen). Of course, though, you may want to ask for help when moving this structure from room to room, as the bulkier frame can be a bit of a chore to maneuver on your own.

Best Foldable Stationary Bike

Pros

  • Simple design can be great for novice fitness enthusiasts
  • 14-gauge steel frame for boosted durability and security

Cons

  • 30” max seat height may be too short for taller athletes
  • No heart rate sensors for improved data tracking

Foldable stationary bikes can be a great solution for apartment-dwelling fitness enthusiasts or athletes who don’t have the necessary space for a full-fledged rig. This impressive profile from Marcy boasts a durable 14-gauge steel frame that stores compactly yet still has enough brawn across the silhouette for effective, efficient training. Additionally, the included transport wheels make getting this storage-friendly stationary bike into place a breeze.

The eight resistance levels also give every training session a bit of versatility, and the adjustable seat is prime for finding that ideal setup … if you’re average height. The 30-inch max seat height may be a little short for taller athletes, so this is definitely a measurement to consider if looking to add this machine to your at-home setup.

Best Recumbent Stationary Bike

Pros

  • Compatible with Zwift and JRNY for engaging digital training
  • Padded, ventilated seat improves comfort across the setup

Cons

  • Longer profile is not ideal for athletes tight on space
  • Rather basic console despite the larger design

Want to take part in indoor cycling yet fear the strain it could put on your lower back? Consider a recumbent bike for a cozier in-training setup like this high-quality silhouette from Schwinn. The 290 Recumbent Bike boasts a padded, ventilated seat that provides excellent support and cushioning for all your workout needs, and the Bluetooth compatibility grants you connection to your favorite apps like Zwift, JRNY and more.

We also appreciate this recumbent bike because of the approachable price point despite the larger footprint. At less than $1,000, it’s one of the most affordable recumbent profiles on the market. While the console is a little lacking in terms of embedded tech — it’s still just a basic LCD display — this can be a worthwhile solution for at-home fitness enthusiasts wanting a cozier aesthetic for each cardio-focused session.

Best Stationary Bike for Taller Athletes

Pros

  • One of the quietest stationary bikes in this roundup
  • Straightforward, simple assembly thanks to clear, detailed instructions

Cons

  • Handles adjust at a 45-degree angle, which can place them too close or far away for some
  • Media holder sold separately

For taller athletes that need extra adjustments across your stationary bike, consider this rig from Keiser. The handlebars move at a 45-degree angle inward or outward, which creates a further throw from the saddle that can suit lankier frames better mid-training. Granted, this adjustment point may not be the best for every athlete, but we feel it accentuates the taller physique better than most.

Additionally, the M3 stationary bike is sturdily built and shouldn’t jostle during use. This is also a quiet piece of home fitness equipment, so there’s no need to soundproof your training space before getting into the throws of a workout. While we would appreciate an included media holder to house our smartphones or tablet for easier class integration, this Keiser silhouette is tough to beat.

Carol Bike 2.0

Pros

  • AI-controlled resistance adjustments for seamless, simplistic workouts
  • Friction-free magnetic brake cuts down on mid-training noise

Cons

  • ”Shortened” workouts may not be the best for every athlete
  • Smaller display than others in this guide

Rather than bombarding your training regimen with studio-centric courses or instructor-led sessions, the updated Carol Bike employs a smart, AI-driven workout regimen designed to keep your training minutes short yet results as expansive as ever. The bike’s integrated software utilizes the REHIT (reduced exertion high-intensity interval training) principle to improve cardiovascular fitness and burn calories at a rapid rate — all you have to do is give your all for two 10-, 15- or 20-second sprints. While it may not be effective for all athletes, we appreciate this break from the norm.

From an aesthetics perspective, the Carol Bike is also not one to ignore thanks to its clean lines and stylish profile. Sure, the display unit could be helped with some added inches of its screen size, but other than that, this is a unique, intriguing silhouette that’s worth considering tor your at-home fitness needs.

Wahoo Kickr Smart Bike

Pros

  • Users can swap in their own handlebars and seat
  • Bluetooth connections to Garmin, Suunto, Zwift, Strava and other popular apps

Cons

  • Price is significantly higher than other profiles
  • No built-in screen

The Kickr Bike from Wahoo Fitness is to cycling what a NASA flight simulator is to space travel. The classic road bike handlebars with integrated shifters and sleek roadie saddle melt into a futuristic-looking frame-actuator-flywheel combo. Not surprisingly, it made indoor training sessions feel a lot more like the real thing for us (and weirdly fun). In fact, this is where Kickr shines. For example, with a little futzing, you can match the Kickr’s shifters to your actual road bike and leverage the built-in actuator that tilts 20 percent for climbs and 15 percent for descents to virtually clone real-world conditions.

Yet while the Wahoo app is good, easy to use and easily paired to the bike, there’s no place on the bike to anchor a phone or tablet. Keeping things screen-free while you ride is likely to charm outdoor cyclists looking for an awesome off-season trainer, but could frustrate riders wanting a more plugged-in workout.

Concept2 BikeErg

Pros

  • Compatible with Zwift and other training apps
  • Seat and handlebars easily adjust for that personalized setup

Cons

  • Basic LCD screen is lacking when compared to other stationary bikes in this guide
  • No on-demand workout courses available

Concept2 already makes one damn fine rowing machine, so it makes sense that it would supply HIIT enthusiasts with a worthwhile stationary bike, too. The easy-to-adjust, sturdy frame is prime for those hard-nosed training circuits, and the ability to connect your progress to multiple fitness apps is a definite plus, too. Sure, this stationary bike doesn’t come equipped with a robust display unit for live or on-demand courses, but if you already know what you’re trying to accomplish in training, do you really need all those bells and whistles?

Myx Fitness MYXII Plus

Pros

  • Myx Membership provides a wide range of workouts for up to five people
  • Multiple freeweight options allows for more personalized off-bike training opportunities

Cons

  • Lack of leaderboards and live classes can deter motivation for some
  • Pairing your Apple Watch for data analysis can be spotty at times

This stationary bike from Myx comes with nearly all the bells and whistles of Peloton at a more affordable price point. The well-built design also features dual-sided pedals, water bottle holders, Bluetooth compatibility, a 21.5-inch touchscreen console and a surprisingly enjoyable app (which costs $39 a month) with music, trainers and personalized heart rate zone training. Still lacking live classes and leaderboards as well as integration with Strava and Zwift, the Myx isn’t for everyone, but is one of the best bikes we’ve tested. The extras are nice, too, including a 6-piece weight set, kettlebell, stabilizing mat, exercise mat, resistance band and foam roller. While Apple Watch integration could be improved upon, this is a great digitally-minded option for tech-savvy athletes.

Editor’s Note: If you’d rather just purchase the bike without the added weights, mats and other gear, Myx does offer a standalone MYXII for a few hundred dollars less.

The Benefits of Stationary Bikes

According to Wilson, stationary bikes are a popular home gym staple because of their small footprint and easy-to-master makeup. “They don’t take up a bunch of space in your home, they’re easy to learn on; they hit the major muscle groups — thighs, glutes, the bigger muscle groups in the body.”

In addition to their intuitive practice, stationary bikes are also plenty versatile, according to Wilson. “You can do trainer-led videos, you can do intervals, you can sit-stand-sprint or you can just chill and watch tv,” he says.

The Different Styles of Stationary Bikes, Explained

Searching for an indoor stationary bike can be a bit confusing, especially given the number of varying silhouettes that make up the category. To help you break down the types of exercise bikes on the market, here’s a few key indicators.

Spin or Indoor Cycling bikes are those that mimic setups you’d see in spin courses, or those that closely mimic on-road cycling. Exercise bikes, on the other hand, place you in a more upright riding position for a more casual training scenario. “It’s a more leisurely workout, more comfort oriented with larger saddles and a more upright position,” Wilson states.

Finally, recumbent bikes place your frame in a seated position with your legs and pedals in front of your body, rather than underneath as per the typical cycling setup. This can be a perk for those that suffer from lower back issues or athletes that may not be able to sit in a cycling saddle for extended periods. Recumbent bikes can also be worthwhile for older users, too, but their elongated seating experience can take up more floorspace than other silhouettes.

How to Choose a Stationary Bike

If you’re looking for a home-gym experience that will guide you through your workouts, bikes with robust apps and built-in screens are key. If you’re an avid rider looking for a way to augment or replace rides outside; consider the bike’s resistance range and type, as well as the equipment’s overall design. You can also opt for an indoor bike trainer, creating a perfect setup that utilizes your trusty outdoor ride without the need for preferable outdoor riding conditions.

Digital compatibility is also an important feature for indoor riders to consider. Many of today’s options offer syncing features to your favorite training apps, or come equipped with virtual workouts and programs at the ready. Some models go beyond the saddle, offering accessories like dumbbells and rotating displays for added training possibilities as well.

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