14 Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes in 2024

Today’s topic is all about the best recumbent exercise bike. I have amazing ones that are sure to complement any home gym.

When you walk into a gym, you’re probably going to see a plethora of treadmills. Then, you’ll surely also see a bunch of regular stationary exercise bikes. And a lot of them are bound to be occupied, as well.

If you are not all that familiar with gym equipment and you didn’t try out more than a few machines, you’d probably hop on a regular exercise bike sooner than on a recumbent one. It is not necessarily a mistake, but a recumbent exercise bike has a lot to offer.

Sure, it looks a bit weird. And it also doesn’t look like it provides a super effective workout because you’re almost reclining in it. But don’t judge it by its looks because a seated exercise bike has so much benefits (which we will get to later).

Hop on and let’s see some recumbent exercise bike reviews, what it is about recumbent exercise bikes that makes them so cool, and which ten are currently the best ones out there.

Our team of certified personal trainers and professional athletes has tested 23 recumbent bikes and only 14 of them made it to this list. We have dedicated a total of 414 hours to testing most of them, and we’ve based our evaluations on 7 most important factors. To complement this, we have also examined hundreds of online user reviews. Share your experiences in the comments section because our list is updated all the time!

Top 14 Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes Reviewed

1. NordicTrack Commercial R35 – Top Pick
2. Sunny Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike – Best Lightweight Recumbent Bike
3. Sunny Magnetic Folding Recumbent Bike – Best Folding
4. Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike – Budget Pick
5. Stamina Wonder Exercise Bike – Budget Folding
6. Sunny Performance Interactive Recumbent Bike – Best With Moveable Handles
7. 3G Cardio Elite RB Exercise Bike – Premium Pick
8. Schwinn Fitness 290 Recumbent Bike – Best Interactive For Its Value
9. Circuit Fitness Recumbent Magnetic Exercise Bike – Recumbent Bike With Small Footprint
10. SOLE R92 2020 Recumbent Bike – With Big LCD Display
11. Ironman Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike – Best Lightweight Folding Recumbent Bike
12. Stamina Conversion II Recumbent Exercise Bike/Rower – Recumbent Bike + Rower
13. KURONO Stationary Exercise Bike – 4-In-1 Foldable Recumbent Bike
14. Evo-Fit Recumbent Bike

Product	Total	Adjustability	Durability	Comfort	Drive System	Assembly	Portability	Price/Quality
NordicTrack	68.5	10	10	10	10	9.5	9	10
Sunny Magnetic Recumbent	67	9	9.5	9.5	9	10	10	10
Sunny Magnetic Folding	65.5	8.5	9	9.5	9	9.5	10	10
Marcy	65	8.5	9	9	9	9.5	10	10
Stamina Wonde	64	9	9	9	9	8	10	10
Sunny Performance	63.5	9	8.5	9	9	10	9	9
3G Cardio	62.5	9	8.5	9	9	9	9	9
Schwinn	62	9.5	8.5	9	9	9	8	9
Circuit	62	9	9.5	9	9	8	9	8.5
SOLE	61.5	8.5	9	9	8.5	9	9	8.5
Ironman	61	8	9	8	8.5	8.5	10	9
Stamina Conversion	60	10	8	9	8	8	8	9
Kurono	59.5	8.5	8	8.5	8	9	9	8.5
Evo-Fit	59	8	8	9	8	9	9	8

1. NordicTrack Commercial R35 – Top Pick

This bike is a league of its own. I honestly wouldn’t expect anything less from NordicTrack, but they still managed to surprise me. 

• Dimensions: 68.22″ L x 23.69″ W x 53.42″ H
• Adjustable Height (Min/Max): Max 53.42’’
• Display: HD Touchscreen
• Built-in programs: Available with iFit
• Resistance levels: 26
• Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
• Product Weight: 192 lbs. (package weight)
• Assembly (Required/Not, Paid Assembly/Not): Assembly required
• Maximum Weight Capacity:350 lbs.
• Special Features: Speed Monitor, Foldable, Adjustable Seat
• Warranty: 10-year frame warranty, 2-year parts warranty, and 1-year labor warranty
• Package (What’s Included): Machine, 30 days free iFit membership

This one’s definitely at the top of the pack, the apex in the recumbent food chain and whatever else you can think of. 

The interactive touchscreen, smooth adjustments, iFit workouts, everything about it feels high-end. And it’s especially good for beginners. Sure, you’ll have to pay for it after your free trial, but the value you get for the membership is absolutely fantastic. It adds a crazy amount of variety to your workouts and the iFit trainers can actually adjust the resistance on your bike in real time. Technology has come pretty far, right?

The pedals are wide and comfortable, and the straps keep your feet comfy and secure. The seat is also oversized and provides exceptional lumbar support.

This is premium in every sense of the word, which unfortunately includes the price. I will say: the value for the money is superb, but…

That price is sure to take a hit on your wallet. Hard. Still, gym equipment is always an investment, and if you want a high-end machine that will last for a long time, this is it.

2. Sunny Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike – Best Lightweight Recumbent Bike

For anyone who wants a super lightweight bike, Sunny has your back. This bike is not only lightweight and easy to put together but also highly functional.

• Dimensions: 56.3’’L x 26.3’’W x 42.9’’H
• Adjustable Height (Min/Max): 30.7’’-40.2’’
• Seat adjustment (inseam): Forward/back, 30.7’’-40.2’’
• Display: Digital
• Resistance levels: 8
• Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
• Product Weight: 59 lbs
• Assembly (Required/Not, Paid Assembly/Not): Assembly required
• Maximum Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
• Special Features: Pulse sensor, self-leveling pedals
• Warranty: 3-year structural frame, 180 days for other parts and components
• Package (What’s Included): Recumbent bike, two pieces of tools for the assembly

The bike’s adjustable seat allows you to move both forward and backward without having to dismount, which means that anyone can find a comfortable position regardless of their size, and the self-leveling pedals with adjustable straps make it easy to secure your feet.

The bike has 8 levels of resistance, which is not a crazy high amount, but for the price and for how lightweight it is, it’s okay. You can easily adjust the tension with an adjustment knob and make your workouts as intense as you want them to be.

Although the monitor is small, it shows all the information you need: time, speed, distance, calories burned, and heart rate. There’s also an odometer to track your progress and built-in pulse grip sensors on the handles to monitor your heart rate. Of course, we can’t forget about the device holder, so you can stay entertained while you exercise because you’ll be comfortable enough to do that. The wide cushioned seat is very nice and the seat adjuster allows you to fine-tune your seating position with a flick of a handle.

Overall, it is a great bike that has a lot of features that make it both comfortable and effective, and it comes at a great price.

3. Sunny Magnetic Folding Recumbent Bike – Best Folding Bike

This little bike can best be described as just cute. Doesn’t it look like something you would find at Barbie’s Dream House? It’s another bike from Sunny that made it to the list, and this has so much to offer. Also… it’s pink!

• Dimensions: 32L X 18.5W X 46H
• Adjustable Height (Min/Max): 31’’-33’’
• Seat adjustment (inseam): up/down
• Display: Digital
• Resistance levels: 8
• Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
• Product Weight: 37 lbs
• Assembly (Required/Not, Paid Assembly/Not): Assembly required
• Maximum Weight Capacity: 220 lbs
• Special Features: Self-leveling pedals
• Warranty: 3 Year Structural Frame, 180 Days Other Parts And Components
• Package (What’s Included): Machine

This bike is not just plain pretty but there’s also no space it won’t fit in. It is such a compact bike that you can use it anywhere in your house. It’s like Sunny wanted to pack everything possible in the most compact bike ever. After you’re done with your workout, just fold it up and roll it to the nearest closet. And believe it or not, it will fit in your closet just fine.

When you take its overall size into account, the size of the seat and backrest is substantial. You can work out for a long time and your back is going to be comfortable and supported. The seat is adjustable, and the handlebars and adjustable pedals add even more to the comfort.

The performance monitor shows your progress and helps you stay motivated. You can see everything you would want on it: distance, speed, time, calories burned… No metrics missed here!

The 8 adjustable levels of resistance are great, but it would be great to see more of them. Compared to 20+ levels some bikes offer, 8 seems like not enough. Nevertheless, this bike is so cute and compact that it won’t be hard to look past the low number of resistance levels.

4. Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike – Budget Pick

My budget pick proves you don’t need to spend thousands of dollars to get a good quality machine! Marcy made a compact, affordable recumbent bike that will last you a long time and provide a great workout.

• Dimensions: 25"D x 58"W x 38"H
• Adjustable Height (Min/Max): 27’’-36’’
• Seat adjustment (inseam): 27’’-36’’
• Display: LCD
• Resistance levels: 8
• Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
• Product Weight: 53 lbs.
• Assembly (Required/Not, Paid Assembly/Not): Assembly required
• Maximum Weight Capacity: 300 lbs.
• Special Features: Weighted pedals
• Warranty: 2 year limited manufacturer
• Package (What’s Included): Warranty card, user manual, machine

The LCD screen will give you all the information on your workout, but if you want to listen to some music from your phone or tablet while you work out – you won’t be able to. There’s no device holder, but the bike is so silent, you can just turn your TV on and play some music, watch Netflix, or whatever it is that entertains you. 

he counterbalanced pedals have straps for security and the seat is nicely padded. You’ll be able to work out for quite a while and you’ll get bored of it sooner than you’ll get uncomfortable. Usually with affordable machines, you’ll notice that features like padding, straps, handlebars, etc. are where the manufacturer decided to save some money. Not with this one, though. Everything is really nice on this one.

Your workouts will be surprisingly efficient for such a compact bike. You can burn some serious calories with it without it taking up half of your room. And all of this for such a great price. Good job, Marcy!

5. Stamina Wonder Exercise Bike – Budget Folding Bike

A foldable recumbent bike can be a bit harder to find if you’re on a budget, but luckily, Stamina made one that’s really good. It’s compact, easy to store and won’t take up a lot of space. 

• Dimensions: 48’’D x 29.5’’W x 52.5’’H
• Adjustable Height (Min/Max): 20.7’’-41.7’’
• Seat adjustment (inseam): 20.7’’-41.7’’
• Display: LCD
• Resistance levels: 8
• Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
• Product Weight: 42 lbs
• Assembly (Required/Not, Paid Assembly/Not): Assembly required
• Maximum Weight Capacity: 250 lbs
• Special Features: Foldable design, wonder arms with plastic bands for upper-body exercises
• Warranty: 90 days for parts, 1 year for the frame
• Package (What’s Included): Bike, two instructor guided online workout videos

Something that stands out immediately are the Wonder Arms, which allow resistance training for the upper body. It’s a great feature, but there’s just not enough resistance to get an actual upper-body workout, so don’t count on these being suitable for anything remotely intense.

The bike has textured pedals, padded hand grips, ergonomic handlebars, and a cushioned seat and backrest. It’s nice to see so much thought came into making the bike comfortable, and it really is - the resistance is easy to adjust and you’ll feel comfortable while working out.

The LCD monitor shows all the metrics you would want to keep an eye on, so you can stay motivated and see how you progress. The bike is also supported by the müüv app, which offers smart guided coaching, exercise demo videos, personalized workouts, assembly videos, and more. And speaking of assembly, it’s pretty easy to do, but keep an eye on the screws that come in the package, because sometimes they’re the wrong size, so you may have to run to your hardware store to get ones that fit.

6. Sunny Performance Interactive Recumbent Bike – Best With Moveable Handles

Moveable handles make all the difference, and they make your whole body involved in the workout! Recumbent bikes with moveable handles are excellent, and Sunny makes the best one.

• Dimensions: 63.8L X 26.4W X 49.6H inches
• Adjustable Height (Min/Max): Min 29.9 In/Max 38.6 inches
• Seat adjustment (inseam): Forward, back
• Display: Digital
• Resistance levels: 8
• Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
• Product Weight: 77.4 lbs.
• Assembly (Required/Not, Paid Assembly/Not): Assembly required
• Maximum Weight Capacity: 265 lbs.
• Special Features: Connects To SunnyFit® App
• Warranty: 3 Year Structural Frame, 180 Days Other Parts and Components
• Package (What’s Included): Machine

This one has all the benefits as a regular recumbent bike does. The seat is comfortable and adjustable and there are several levels of resistance to adjust to your liking. The pedals are non-slip, and the straps do a great job at securing your feet in place.

The digital screen is minimal but shows everything you need. There’s no fancy touchscreen here, but there is absolutely nothing the digital screen lacks. The frame is super sturdy, and the Sunny Fit App is a fantastic addition to your workouts! You can track your progress, get personalized workout plans and compete with other people to get on top of the leaderboard. I find that a little healthy competition can give you that extra boost so you can get results faster than you usually would.

And you know what will help you get those results even more? The moveable handles. You’ll work your entire body with this bike, and after you’re done, you’ll feel it in all the right places.

This one is slightly noisier than other recumbent bikes on the list, and I’m assuming the handles play a part in this. But even with that, your workout will still be silent enough not to disturb other members of your household.

7. 3G Cardio Elite RB Exercise Bike – Premium Pick

Although not everyone wants to spend a lot of money on expensive equipment, some of it is really worth it. This bike is an investment for sure, but it has some great features and gives a very premium feel. 

• Dimensions: 49’’D x 27’’W x 43’’H
• Adjustable Height (Min/Max): Suitable for people of 5 ft-6.5 ft tall
• Seat adjustment (inseam): 25 forward/back positions, 5 tilt positions
• Display: Console with programmable electronics display
• Built-in programs: 12
• Resistance levels: 16
• Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
• Product Weight: 115 lbs
• Assembly (Required/Not, Paid Assembly/Not): Assembly required
• Maximum Weight Capacity: 350 lbs
• Special Features: Airflow Mesh Flex adjustable backrest, handheld heart rate sensors and a wireless heart rate strap
• Warranty: Lifetime for the frame, 7 years for the parts
• Package (What’s Included): Bike

This bike is designed by 3G Cardio, which is an Arizona-based company that has 50 years of experience in the fitness industry.

The bike is very comfortable and adjustable. The seat is oversized and cushioned and the bike will fit anyone between 5 and 6.5 feet in height. The Airflow Mesh Flex backrest will adapt to your body shape and size and keep you cool while you work out. The only thing that’s not so great about the seat is the fabric - it’s flimsy and shows signs of wear soon, so you may want to be careful with it.

The bike’s size is compact and it’s designed to easily roll through a standard doorway, so there should be no issues with moving it around your house. You’ll be able to customize your workouts to whatever you want because there are 16 levels of resistance, which means you can really challenge yourself. There are also 12 preprogrammed workouts and 3 heart rate interactive workouts.

There are often memberships and additional fees when it comes to premium equipment, but this bike doesn’t have anything like that. You can use it freely without any additional costs or subscriptions. Although its price is high upfront, its premium feel makes it worth it.

8. Schwinn Fitness 290 Recumbent Bike – Best Interactive For Its Value

Schwinn’s 290 recumbent bike has a sleek black design and robust build. Since it weighs 110 pounds, there’s no worry about sturdiness, and you can count on it to maintain its stability even during the most intense workouts.

• Dimensions: 66.5’’L x 26.3’’W x 46.8’’H
• Display: 7’’ LCD
• Built-in programs: 13
• Resistance levels: 25
• Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
• Product Weight: 110 lbs
• Assembly (Required/Not, Paid Assembly/Not): Assembly required
• Maximum Weight Capacity: 330 lbs
• Special Features: Terrain Control Technology
• Package (What’s Included): Bike, hardware card, owner’s manual, AC adapter

The 290 has a Distance Travelled Monitor, which will allow you to track your progress and set goals to remain motivated. The 7’’ display is informative and gives you access to 13 built-in workout programs, fitness metrics, and goal tracking. It also has an impressive number of resistance levels — 25!

There’s another really neat feature — the Terrain Control Technology. This will automatically adjust the resistance during changes in elevation when you select the Explore the World workouts, and once you try it, you’ll love it. This makes the whole workout experience immersive, but challenging at the same time and it’s a game-changer.

The bike itself is quite heavy, but it is not necessarily a bad thing. The weight makes it stable so you can push your limits and never worry about stability. On the other hand, it can be a pain to move it, so it would be great if the bike had a dedicated space in your home.

9. Circuit Fitness Recumbent Magnetic Exercise Bike – Recumbent Bike With Small Footprint

The Circuit Fitness Recumbent Magnetic Exercise Bike is as heavy-duty as possible. It has a robust, high-grade steel frame and is a combination of durability and performance. 

• Dimensions: 25’’D x 55’’W x 48.5’’H
• Adjustable Height (Min/Max): 5’-7’
• Seat adjustment (inseam): Forward/back, up/down (slightly)
• Display: LCD
• Built-in programs: 15
• Resistance levels: 32
• Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
• Product Weight: 86 lbs
• Assembly (Required/Not, Paid Assembly/Not): Assembly required
• Maximum Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
• Special Features: Pulse sensors for heart rate monitoring, ergonomic handles and safety pedals
• Warranty: 1 year
• Package (What’s Included): Warranty card, bike, user manual

The best thing about this bike is its adjustable seat — it’s extremely comfortable and will fit perfectly for anyone up to 300 pounds. The seat is designed to promote good body form, which can make your workouts more effective. The magnetic resistance has 15 preset programs to add some variety in your workouts and it simulates different terrains for customized workouts.

The LCD monitor tracks all your metrics, but it’s not of the highest quality, because the timer freezes way too often and there’s no information on how to fix this issue. It doesn’t affect the functionality of the bike itself, but it’s still annoying.

One of the bike’s strengths is the step-through design — it’s easy to get on and off, which may not sound like a big deal for most people, but for those that have issues with mobility, this is going to be a very nice feature. There are also two pairs of ergonomic handles and the adjustable pedals have straps that secure your feet in place.

Overall, it’s a good bike, but there are things that could use some improvement.

10. SOLE B94 Recumbent Bike – With Big LCD Display

Big LCD displays aren’t an absolute necessity, but they make your workout more comfortable. Sole is aware of this, so their R92 (the 2020 model) comes with a big 9’’ screen that’s very nice to look at. 

• Dimensions: 46D x 18’’W x 31’’H
• Seat adjustment (inseam): Adjustable to height
• Display: Digital
• Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
• Product Weight: 109 lbs
• Assembly (Required/Not, Paid Assembly/Not): Assembly required
• Maximum Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
• Special Features: Oversized pedals, ergonomic design
• Package (What’s Included): Bike

The seat is adjustable and offers excellent back support. You can safely use this bike early in the morning or late at night because it’s very quiet and you won’t disturb anyone around you. In addition, the seat comes with generous padding and is designed to improve your posture, so not only is it comfortable, it’s also going to help you maintain good form. There’s also a water bottle holder, so you can take a sip without pausing your workout.

The screen is big enough so you can see all of the metrics comfortably and track your metrics. This is a great way to stay motivated, because your results are right in front of you!

The bike does have its drawbacks, and the biggest one is probably the inconsistent resistance, which can get pretty irritating. You may also notice a strange knocking sound on higher resistance levels, as a few users complained about it.

11. Ironman Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike – Best Lightweight Folding Recumbent Bike

This bike is not only lightweight but also folding! The Ironman 400XL is one of the most home-gym-friendly recumbent bikes you’ll even find, because it takes up so little space, is surprisingly lightweight, and you can move it without breaking a sweat.

• Dimensions: 33’D x 19’’W x 46’’H
• Adjustable Height (Min/Max): 60’’-75’’
• Display: LCD
• Resistance levels: 8
• Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
• Product Weight: 43 lbs
• Assembly (Required/Not, Paid Assembly/Not): Assembly required
• Maximum Weight Capacity: 145 lbs
• Special Features: Folding design
• Warranty: 1 year limited warranty
• Package (What’s Included): Bike, manual, tools for assembly

Although it has only 8 resistance levels, you can still get a decent workout out of it, and the flywheel will provide you with seamless transitions between resistance levels. You can use the bike anywhere because it’s easy to move around, so you’re not limited to your home gym. If the day is nice and warm, enjoy your workout on your patio, in the fresh air!

The Ironman is made of alloy steel, and the material quality is very good and doesn’t seem like it would get damaged easily. You can also use it as a desk bike if you combine it with a height-adjustable desk.

It has a large cushioned seat that looks comfortable, but the cushioning is rather stiff, so you may need to spend some time breaking it in. Another issue is that the bike won’t suit people over 6’’ comfortably, and this complaint is very common. Although it’s supposed to suit tall people, and Exerpeutic claims it does, that’s not really the case, so keep this in mind if you’re tall. 

12. Stamina Conversion II Recumbent Exercise Bike/Rower – Best Recumbent Bike + Rower

Why settle for a recumbent bike when you can have a recumbent bike, a rower, and still do upright rows and curls – all with a single piece of equipment?

• Dimensions: 78" L x 23" W x 31" H
• Display: Digital
• Resistance levels: 8
• Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
• Product Weight: 96 lbs.
• Assembly (Required/Not, Paid Assembly/Not): Assembly required
• Maximum Weight Capacity: 250 lbs.
• pecial Features: Supported by müüv
• Warranty: 3 years frame/90 days parts
• Package (What’s Included): Machine

This machine is going to engage all your muscle groups. Your upper body will get an excellent workout out of it, and you can adjust the resistance easily to whatever you feel most comfortable with.

The recumbent bike will be great for toning your lower body and it’s low-impact. The rower, on the other hand, is low-impact as well and will work all of your major muscle groups. This means that it’s just going to torch those calories in a blink.

The rowing handle is padded to make it more comfortable and the machine is supported by müüv. If you haven't heard of it – you need to get on board. It's an app that has personalized workouts, iHeart radio, and assembly videos.

And while we're on the subject of assembly, I have to say that this takes a bit longer than expected to put together. But once you do, you'll get a workout like no other!

13. KURONO Stationary Exercise Bike – 4-In-1 Foldable Recumbent Bike

The Kurono exercise bike is very versatile and can be used by people of all fitness levels. It has 16 levels of resistance, 8 seat height adjustments, 2 seat angle adjustments, and 3 posture adjustments (upright, recline, folding).

• Dimensions: 22’’D x 32’’W x 48’’H
• Adjustable Height (Min/Max): 6’’-40.2’’
• Seat adjustment (inseam): 8 Seat height adjustments, 2 Seat angle adjustments, 3 posture adjustments: upright, recline, and folding
• Display: Digital LCD
• Resistance levels: 16
• Resistance Mechanism: Magnetic
• Product Weight: 48 lbs
• Assembly (Required/Not, Paid Assembly/Not): Assembly required
• Maximum Weight Capacity: 330 lbs
• Special Features: 4-in-1 design
• Warranty: 1 year
• Package (What’s Included): Bike

When in use, the bike is supposed to be quiet, but there’s a constant knocking noise. Sometimes it’s louder, sometimes you can hardly hear it, but it’s always there, and the level of resistance does not affect it in any way.

Apart from the irritating sound, the bike is relatively well-made and remains stable despite being lightweight. The 2022 version has upgraded reinforced seats, so it can support weight up to 330 lbs, which is very impressive for such a lightweight bike. Some people have complained about the belt being flimsy and breaking soon, but this issue is not as common as the knocking sound.

There are built-in resistance bands, so when you combine them with the number of exercise positions, you can easily get a full-body workout. This kind of versatility is hard to find, and equipment like this is perfect for home gyms because it saves space.

14. Evo-Fit Recumbent Bike

• Dimensions: 62.6L X 25W X 49.2H inches
• Adjustable Height (Min/Max): Min 26 In/Max 34 In
• Seat adjustment (inseam): 26’’-34’’, forward/back
• Display: Digital
• Built-in programs: 36
• Resistance levels: 24
• Resistance Mechanism: Electro-magnetic
• Product Weight: 100 lbs.
• Assembly (Required/Not, Paid Assembly/Not): Assembly required, paid
• Maximum Weight Capacity: 300 lbs.
• Special Features: Floor stabilizers, integrated fan, dual device holders
• Warranty: 3 Year Structural Frame, 180 Days Other Parts And Components
• Package (What’s Included): Machine

With 24 levels of resistance, it does not matter if you see a recumbent bike the first time or if you already have experience with them. You can adjust the resistance to whatever feels comfortable for you and set the intensity you want. And if you don’t really know what you exactly need, have no fear – 36 built-in programs will adjust the resistance based on which one you choose.

If you like working out to your favorite music, the Evo-Fit has your back (literally and figuratively!). You can use Bluetooth to connect any of your gadgets to it and crank up your favorite tunes. And don’t worry where to place the mentioned gadget. This bike has 2 device holders, so there’s more than enough room for everything you could want to connect to it.

The seat is super comfortable. It’s ergonomic and supports your back so your focus can be on your workout. And you can adjust the seat however you please. Keep in mind, though, that you’ll need to put some muscle into setting it up because the handle is a tiny bit stiff.

I love it when manufacturers design their products with care, and the really did a good job here. They included floor stabilizers and wheels, so you can be sure the bike won’t wobble even on uneven floors. You can also easily roll it around your home. This recumbent bike is as close to perfection as you can get.

7 Recumbent Bike Benefits

If you’re wondering whether it’s worth it to get a recumbent bike or not, then you might look at some of the benefits, more precisely eight of them, that it brings to the table – that’ll definitely help make your mind up!

✅ Less Stress On The Lower Back

The most prominent advantage of recumbent bikes over the more traditional upright bikes is the reduced stress and work on the lower back. That is due to the comfy and reclining seating position. Because of that position, the spine maintains a natural alignment while you’re pedaling, which reduces the risk of straining your back.

✅ Comfort

The position at which you’re seated may look a teensy bit strange if you’re not familiar with recumbent bikes. But it’s actually highly comfortable. Your back won’t be strained as much as it would with regular bikes, and the seats are usually ergonomically designed.

✅ Great Cardio

Working out on a recumbent bike is great cardio! It improves blood circulation, and it’s very good for heart health. Aerobic capacity directly translates to longevity. You can also pick one of the higher intensity interval programs (or do it yourself) to add variety to your routine and improve heart contractile and diastolic functions.

✅ Leg Endurance

The workout you do is basically pedaling like crazy, repetitively. That’s great for increasing leg endurance  and toning leg muscles.

✅ Weight Loss

It’s cardio, so it surely burns a ton of calories and may promote weight loss. Please ensure you choose the workout intensity wisely because with different levels come different results. If you watch what you eat and work out regularly on a recumbent bike, you’ll most likely lose quite a few pounds. If weight loss is the goal - make sure you’re on a calorie deficit - without that, you can ride a bike the whole day and still won’t lose a pound. However there are plenty of health benefits so keep going 😉

✅ Joint Mobility

Regular workouts on a recumbent bike can significantly increase the mobility of your joints, and it can do wonders for your range of motion. At the same time, please keep in mind that the riding mileage or time should be increased progressively.

✅ Rehabilitation

The nature of a recumbent bike is low-impact, and its workouts are usually gentle. That means it’s great even if you’re recovering from an injury or surgery.

Who A Recumbent Bike Is Good For? 

Recumbent bikes are good for almost everyone, but especially for those who want a low-impact cardio workout that won’t hurt their joints and stress back. These bikes are comfortable, supportive, and used in a seating position. They have a large and usually cushioned seat and a backrest, so they’re ideal for people who are dealing with back pain and want to stay active. They’re also good for anyone who wants a workout but doesn’t want the strain that’s associated with upright bikes or cycling outdoors.

The great thing about recumbent bikes is that they’re suitable for beginners and experienced users, so their use is very wide. They’re also popular with seniors since they are easy to use and have less risk of injury compared to traditional bikes.

You can do it all with a recumbent bike: you can use it for rehabilitation, to shed a few extra pounds, or to just stay active in a comfortable way.

Recumbent Bikes Vs Stationary Exercise Bikes: 4 Main Differences

Let me just preface this section by saying, there’s no winner here. You won’t see me saying one is better than the other. There are pros and cons to each of them, and this is meant to help you decide which would be more suitable for your needs.

Criterias	Recumbent Bike	Stationary Exercise Bike
Seating Position	Reclined	Upright
Comfort	Superior comfort	Can cause discomfort
Muscle Engagement	Mostly lower body	Mostly lower body
Impact on Joints	Low	Higher than a recumbent bike
Impact on Low Back	Low (more support)	High (less support)

1. Seating Position

If you’re working out on a recumbent bike, you’re in a reclined position, which is very friendly to your back. Stationary exercise bikes, on the other hand, put you in an upright position.

2. Comfort

I know I said there’s no winners here, but in this category, the regular bike has nothing on the recumbent bike. The recumbent bike has a large, usually padded, ergonomic seat that supports your back. The stationary bike is okay for a shorter workout but can cause back and neck discomfort.

3. Muscle Engagement

Both recumbent and stationary bikes mainly target the lower body (quads, hams, and glutes). However, with the stationary bike you also have the option to target the upper body (not with the same level of effectiveness as the lower body) if you opt to use the handlebars intensely. With recumbent bikes, you can also opt to target the core if you focus your efforts on maintaining stability during the whole exercise. But, regardless of what you do, the majority of the engagement in both bikes, when it comes to muscles, is towards the lower body.

4. Impact on Joints

Recumbent bike for home use has far less impact because your weight is distributed over a large area. Stationary bike, however, puts more impact on your joints. 

What To Look For In A Recumbent Bike?

Let’s imagine you’re sold on the idea of getting a recumbent bike. But you’d like to do your own research on which one is best for you. That’s amazing! Here are a couple of pointers on what you need to pay attention to when looking for one that will fit your needs the best.

1. Adjustability & Comfort

Your recumbent bike needs to be adjustable to different heights and body sizes. Look for straps, adjustable seat positions (at least 5 positions), and large pedals.

Recumbent bikes are known for being comfortable, but there are still a few things you need to pay attention to. A padded seat is a must, or you’ll have to put a cushion on it, which can sometimes throw your balance off. An ergonomically designed seat is a huge plus. Try sitting on your bike before buying it and check if it provides enough support.

2. Durability

Durability is one of the things that are going to determine whether a recumbent bike is good and how long you will be able to use it. Look for bikes that are made of high-quality materials, such as alloy steel or heavy-duty steel.

3. Portability

Wheels, wheels, wheels… You want built-in wheels so you can roll it around your house without difficulty. 

4. Price/Quality

Don’t go into debt because of a recumbent stationary bike, but don’t buy a cheap, flimsy bike that will break on you after a month. Strike a balance between price and quality. Today, there are a lot of recumbent bikes that come at a great price and offer exceptional quality.

5. Program Variety

A good recumbent bike will have a range of workout programs to keep your exercises challenging and interesting. Look for bikes that have pre-set programs - the more, the better. 

6. Built-In Technologies (Interactivity)

Another critical aspect of a recumbent bike is the built-in programs. From preset to routines and interactive training features – a top-of-the-line bike will offer diverse and effective programs for an enjoyable working experience.

7. User Interface

Recumbent bikes come with screens to track your progress. You want an interface that’s user-friendly and intuitive that shows all the information you need – time, speed, distance, heart rate, and calories burned.

How To Use A Recumbent Bike?

Beyond the classic “Sit down and pedal!”, you might be looking for a bit more comprehensive guide on how to use recumbent bikes. Well, here you go!

1. Make The Adjustments

The first thing you need to do is to adjust the seat height and the distance between the pedals on your stationary recumbent bike. Your knees need to be slightly bent after you make all the adjustments.

2. Resistance Levels

That is another thing you need to adjust. If you’re a beginner, start with a lower level.

3. Warm Up

It’s important to warm up before any training, and this one is no different. Pedal slowly for 5-10 minutes to prepare your body for the workout.

4. Smooth Pedaling 

Don’t do any jerky movements; your pedaling should be slow and controlled. 

5. Breathe

Pay attention to how you breathe. Keep your breath relaxed and at a steady rhythm.

6. Mix It Up

Don’t get stuck at the same level of intensity. You’ll get bored and soon get to a plateau. Mix it up, combine high-intensity intervals with some recovery periods.

7. Cool Down

Just like you need to warm up, you also need to cool down. Slow pedaling for 5-10 minutes should do the trick.

FAQ

Do Recumbent Bikes Give A Good Workout?

They sure do! They’re great cardio, can do wonders to your cardiovascular health and burn calories. The workouts are low-impact, so your joints like recumbent bikes, too.

Is A Recumbent Bike Better Than A Treadmill For Cardio?

Both are great for cardio, and there’s no real winner here, as it depends on what you want. If you have joint issues, go for a recumbent bike, since it is easier on the joints. Treadmills, on the other hand, offer weight-bearing exercises and can burn more calories. Thus, it comes down to what your fitness goals and your physical condition are.

Is A Recumbent Bike OK For Bad Knees?

Yes, it is, and it’s often recommended for people with knee issues. It’s seated, low-impact, and minimizes stress on the knees. 

Is 30 Minutes On A Recumbent Bike Good Exercise?

It is. 30 minutes is enough to improve cardiovascular health, burn calories and work on your leg muscles. 

Is It Safe To Ride A Recumbent Bike Every Day?

Yes, riding a recumbent bike every day is safe. However, the most important thing is to listen to your body. If you feel exhausted, rest for a day or two.

Conclusion

We rode all the way to the end of the recumbent bike reviews! The absolute winner in the category of the best recumbent bikes is the NordicTrack Commercial R35 so if you’re looking for a new addition to your gym – look no further. If you don’t like any of my recommendations, now you know how to choose a bike for yourself and what you need to pay attention to.

So, what do you think? Do you like recumbant exercise bicycles or prefer regular ones? Have you tried any that I reviewed, and what do you think? Do you have a bike to recommend that I may have missed?

If you have anything to add that I might’ve missed, or if you have any questions regarding recumbent bikes – please do reach out via the comments section below!

Also read:

• Best Exercise Bike With Moving Arms
• Best Exercise Bike for Seniors
• Best Upright Exercise Bike
• Best Exercise Bike for Apartment
• Best Exercise Bike Under 1000

References:

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2. Maddy Biddulph, "Are exercise bikes good for weight loss?", LiveScience, https://www.livescience.com/are-exercise-bikes-good-for-weight-loss(December 14, 2021).
3. Catherine M. Said, "Recumbent cycling to improve outcomes in people with hip fracture", BiomedCentral, https://bmcgeriatr.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12877-021-02321-8(accessed June 29, 2021).
4. Raoul F Reiser 2nd, "Knee loads in the standard and recumbent cycling positions", NCBI, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15133932/(accessed Jun 1, 2004).
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