Sometimes I get to test and review cool things like smart workout mirrors. Other times I’m tasked with testing things I didn’t even know existed and, quite frankly, didn’t see a purpose in.
I’m talking about Foldable Fitness Bikes, which my barbell-focused self never considered. But hey, I guess that’s just part of being the best fitness equipment review team on the internet—bringing readers like you unbiased reviews on products I may not necessarily use myself. (To be fair, I did end up liking one enough to keep it in my home gym permanently.)
Without further ado, I bring you the Garage Gym Reviews’ guide to the best foldable fitness bikes.
Dozens of Fitness Bikes Tested and Reviewed by Certified Personal Trainers
Our team is full of experts in fitness and gym equipment, including cardio machines. We’ve reviewed some of the top cardio machines, from compact treadmills to ellipticals to stationary bikes and air bikes. For this guide, three members of our team tested indoor foldable fitness bikes to find the ones with standout features.
Top Foldable Fitness Bikes of 2024
Best Overall Foldable Fitness Bike: Marcy Foldable Upright Exercise Bike
Good for: Fitness enthusiasts of all levels seeking a sturdy foldable bike with varied resistance
Best Overall Foldable Fitness Bike
Marcy Fitness Upright Foldable Exercise Bike
Marcy Foldable Upright Exercise Bike product image
GGR Score: 4.3
Product Highlights
- Robust 14-gauge steel frame
- Adjustable seat height for user comfort
- Integrated transport wheels for easy movement
- Comfortable padded seat for longer workouts
- 8 levels of resistance to suit different fitness levels
- Lightweight design at only 37 lbs
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Stable and durable, even during intense workouts
- Appealing and modern design
- Comfortable padded seat enhances workout experience
- Constructed with heavy-duty 14-gauge steel for longevity
Cons
- Heavier compared to other foldable bikes in its class
- Basic LCD display showing limited metrics (time, distance, calories)
- No integrated heart rate monitoring features
Bottom Line
A robust and budget-friendly foldable fitness bike ideal for home gyms of any size.
This foldable fitness bike is the model that shifted my perspective on foldable bikes, becoming a permanent fixture in my home gym. While the resistance isn’t intense enough for my primary workouts, it’s become essential for my warm-up and cool-down routines.
What I appreciate about the Marcy Foldable Exercise Bike is its substantial build and sturdiness, surpassing others I’ve tested. The thicker steel tubing, constructed from 14-gauge steel, provides superior strength compared to the 16- or 18-gauge steel typically used in foldable fitness bikes. (Remember, a higher gauge number indicates thinner steel.)
This robust construction translates to exceptional stability during use. Even when pushing hard, I felt no instability. Its strong steel frame makes it an excellent choice for beginners starting their cardio journey. While not “heavy-duty,” the Marcy bike’s stability allows most users to achieve a more challenging workout compared to less sturdy alternatives.
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Exerpeutic Recumbent Bike for comparison]
RELATED: Effective Treadmill HIIT Workouts
It also features a larger-than-average LCD screen, displaying essential metrics: time, distance, and calories. The Marcy foldable fitness bike prioritizes simplicity, lacking advanced tech features common in higher-end models, but aligns with the no-frills nature of most foldable fitness bikes.
While not the most compact foldable fitness bike (unfolded dimensions: 34″ L x 19″ W x 44″ H; folded: 18.5″ L x 18.5″ W x 51.5″ H), it includes transport wheels for convenient relocation and storage.
RELATED: Top-Rated Fitness Trackers for Monitoring Progress
Best Adjustable Foldable Fitness Bike: LEIKE X Bike Ultra-Quiet Foldable Fitness Bike
Good for: Users seeking a comfortable bike for extended workouts and shared use
Best Foldable Fitness Bike for Adjustable Comfort
LEIKE X Bike
LEIKE X Bike foldable fitness bike product image
Product Highlights
- Effortless folding mechanism for quick storage
- Versatile upright and recumbent riding positions
- Comfortable seat designed for extended use
- Integrated media holder for entertainment
- User-friendly basic LCD screen display
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptionally easy to fold and store, fits easily behind furniture
- Offers both upright and recumbent riding positions for varied workouts
- Comfortable seat suitable for workouts lasting over an hour
Cons
- Can be slightly shaky during high-intensity pedaling
- Requires occasional screw tightening (every few months with regular use)
- Limited advanced tech or convenience features
Bottom Line
A quiet and affordable foldable fitness bike ideal for apartment living and users prioritizing comfort.
Our writer and reviewer Anthony O’Reilly not only tested this indoor cycling bike but has used it consistently for nearly two years, accumulating over 3,000 miles. Despite being 6 feet, 3 inches tall, he confirms it comfortably accommodates users of various heights.
This is among the best adjustable foldable fitness bikes due to its ability to fit both tall and shorter individuals (thanks to seven seat height adjustments), while maintaining essential features like a comfortable seat and a wide seat with a backrest option. The handlebars and pedals are also adjustable for a customized fit.
It includes a stand suitable for most laptops and features 12 levels of magnetic resistance, exceeding the typical eight. It functions as both a recumbent and upright bike, allowing daily workout variety. While lacking a dedicated tablet holder, a lip above the LCD monitor can hold devices. Tech features are minimal, consistent with most foldable fitness bikes.
Anthony easily stored the LEIKE X Bike in his 300-square-foot NYC apartment. Moving to a larger space was seamless, with the bike fitting into the moving truck without disassembly.
Furthermore, this bike supports a higher maximum user weight compared to many foldable fitness bikes, accommodating up to 300 pounds, exceeding the typical 250 to 275-pound limit.
Best Budget Foldable Fitness Bike: Pooboo Foldable Exercise Bike
Good for: Value-conscious buyers seeking extra features at an affordable price
Best Budget Foldable Fitness Bike
Pooboo Foldable Exercise Bike
Pooboo Foldable Exercise Bike product image
Product Highlights
- 8 levels of adjustable magnetic resistance for varied workouts
- High 300-lb weight capacity for broader user range
- Semi-recumbent and upright bike versatility
- Budget-friendly price point under $200
- Includes resistance bands for added workout variety
- Integrated phone and water bottle holders for convenience
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Functions as both a recumbent and upright fitness bike
- 300-lb weight capacity is exceptional for its price
- Magnetic resistance for smooth and quiet operation
- Comes with resistance bands for upper body workouts
- Highly affordable, typically under $200
- Space-saving foldable design
Cons
- Very small LCD screen may be difficult to read for some
- Seat size is on the smaller side, may not be ideal for all users
- Assembly instructions could be clearer
Bottom Line
The Pooboo foldable fitness bike offers exceptional value, packing features usually found in more expensive models.
This indoor fitness bike provides more than the average foldable fitness bike, especially considering its price. It includes resistance bands and push-up handles, enabling upper-body workouts alongside cardio and lower body exercises, facilitating a comprehensive full-body workout.
Beyond these extras, the Pooboo Foldable Exercise Bike offers numerous conveniences, enhancing its value. With resistance bands, push-up capability, pulse sensors, an informative LCD screen, eight resistance levels, adjustable seat and pedals, and a phone holder, it delivers remarkable features for its approximate $200 price.
RELATED: Best Resistance Bands for Home Workouts
Durability over time will be a key factor, but it includes a one-year warranty for reassurance.
Best Compact Foldable Fitness Bike: Sharper Image Space Saving Stationary Bike
Good for: Individuals prioritizing maximum space saving above all else
Best Compact Foldable Fitness Bike
Sharper Image Space Saving Stationary Bike
Sharper Image Space Saving Stationary Bike product image
Check Price
Product Highlights
- Folds into a remarkably small rectangular shape for storage
- Arrives fully assembled, ready to use out of the box
- Compact design may fit under some desks for discreet use
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Folds completely into a tiny, space-saving rectangle
- No assembly required, saving time and effort
- Unfolded, it’s compact enough to potentially fit under a desk
Cons
- Lacks a screen, providing no workout metrics
- Pedals positioned closely together, which may feel unnatural
- Ride quality can feel unstable or shaky
Bottom Line
A uniquely space-saving foldable fitness bike prioritizing compactness and ease of storage.
Another Garage Gym Reviews staff writer, Caroline Lubinsky, tested the Sharper Image Space Saving Stationary Bike. At $350, it’s pricier than most stationary foldable fitness bikes, but its unparalleled space-saving design might justify the cost for those with extremely limited space. It truly folds into a small rectangle, unlike most foldable bikes that simply become thinner when folded.
Caroline highlighted the exceptional no-assembly feature. Unpacking and setting it up for a workout took only about 10 minutes. This is a rare convenience in fitness equipment today.
However, she considers it expensive for a fitness bike lacking a backrest or screen. She also advises against it for users with balance issues due to its small base and closely positioned pedals. It performs best on hard floors rather than carpet due to potential shakiness.
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Woman riding Sharper Image Space Saving Bike in a gym setting]
Despite its small footprint, the Sharper Image foldable fitness bike is the most compact equipment we tested. Folded dimensions are just 25.5″ L x 7″ W x 23″ H, easily storable under a bed or in a small closet. Even unfolded, it might fit under a desk for workouts during work.
Despite its size, it accommodates riders from 5’ to 6’4” with a 250-pound weight capacity and features eight levels of magnetic resistance, standard for foldable fitness bikes.
Other Foldable Fitness Bikes We Tested
Besides our top selections, we tested other foldable fitness bikes worth mentioning. While not top picks, one might suit your specific needs.
Fitnation Flex Bike Ultra
This is a decent magnetic upright fitness bike. It includes basic features—magnetic tension control, cushioned seat, adjustable resistance, LCD display, folding design—but is pricier without clear advantages. The Fitnation Flex Bike Ultra felt unremarkable for its $300 MSRP. Similar features are available for less. However, it uniquely folds into a semi-recumbent position, uncommon for upright bikes.
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XTERRA foldable fitness bike product image]
XTERRA Fitness FB350 Folding Exercise Bike
The XTERRA Fitness FB350 foldable bike is a standard X-frame model. It uses magnetic belt drive, like others on our list, and provided a satisfactory cycling experience post-assembly. Assembly was a significant drawback, taking over two hours. Instructions were poor, pre-drilled holes misaligned, and solo assembly was awkward. If considering this bike or the XTERRA Fitness FB150 Folding Exercise Bike, assembly assistance is recommended.
ShareVgo Bluetooth Smart Folding Exercise Bike
Caroline tested the ShareVgo bike and found it underwhelming. Key points: comfortable backrest, but less comfortable seat; flimsy and creaky during rides; and a weak warranty. “I lack confidence in its long-term durability,” she noted. “Weighing 100 pounds under the 250-pound limit, it creaked noticeably during use. The 90-day warranty is also suspiciously short compared to the standard year or more on other foldable bikes.”
How We Picked and Tested the Best Foldable Fitness Bikes
Our product testing team rigorously evaluated each foldable fitness bike. From ordering to assembly and extensive use, we spent hours with each bike to determine its value. Here’s a glimpse into our process for selecting the best foldable fitness bikes:
Research: We began with thorough research and our limited prior experience with foldable fitness bikes. With numerous options on Amazon and elsewhere, we narrowed down choices based on overall ratings, customer reviews, and brand reputation.
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XTERRA folding exercise bike parts laid out for assembly]
Ordering and assembly: We personally ordered all shortlisted foldable fitness bikes through Amazon or manufacturer websites, experiencing standard customer delivery. Assembly was performed following typical user instructions.
Workouts: Our team used the foldable fitness bikes for warm-ups, workouts, and cool-downs, incorporating both endurance and interval training. We tested all features, including resistance levels and seat/handlebar adjustability, noting ease of resistance adjustment, stability during intense intervals, and comfort for long workouts.
Benefits of Foldable Fitness Bikes
Biking is excellent exercise. Here’s why you might want to add a foldable fitness bike to your home gym:
RELATED: Benefits of Stationary Bikes for Cardio and Health
Low-Impact Exercise
For those needing joint-friendly workouts, biking is ideal low-impact cardio. It elevates your heart rate without stressing ankles, knees, or hips like higher-impact exercises such as running.
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RELATED: Discover the Best Treadmills for Seniors with Low Impact Design
Cardiovascular Health
Using a foldable fitness bike improves cardiovascular health by boosting aerobic fitness, reducing cardiovascular disease risk. Regular biking can lower resting heart rate, blood pressure, and improve cardiac output (heart’s blood-pumping efficiency).
Improved Circulation
Using a stationary bike, especially intermittently, promotes blood flow and reduces leg fluid buildup. For desk workers, a foldable fitness bike can alleviate swollen knees and ankles from prolonged sitting.
Increased Daily Activity
Investing in a foldable fitness bike encourages more daily movement. You can easily take work calls while biking or hop on for quick breaks, increasing non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT), burning calories outside structured exercise.
Budget-Friendly
Foldable fitness bikes typically cost a few hundred dollars max, unlike premium bikes like Peloton or NordicTrack s22i Studio Bike. While lacking advanced tech, they’re perfect if you prioritize pedaling and saving money.
Space-Saving
Beyond cost savings, foldable fitness bikes conserve home space. Ideal for home gyms or small apartments, they leave room for other desired equipment.
What to Look for in a Foldable Fitness Bike
Consider these factors before buying:
Budget
Start with your budget. Filtering by price on Amazon or other retailers is helpful. Generally, $300 is high for foldable fitness bikes, with some as low as $80-$100. Value increases with price; aim for the $150-$250 range for the best balance.
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The unassembled parts of a Marcy foldable exercise bike]
Ordering and Assembly
Check delivery details. Heavy bikes may benefit from indoor delivery options. Assembly services are offered by some companies, but foldable bikes are usually easy to assemble yourself.
Resistance Types
Resistance type matters. Magnetic resistance is common, quietest, and maintenance-free. Air-powered flywheels are louder, may require more maintenance, but offer virtually unlimited resistance.
Conveniences and Comfort
Consider seat adjustability, backrests, handlebar types, water bottle holders, phone holders, and cooling fans. These features significantly impact your biking experience.
Portability
Check for transport wheels for easy movement, a crucial feature for a foldable bike.
Sturdiness
Ensure the bike remains stable during intense pedaling, particularly for heavier users. Wobbling indicates instability and potential safety concerns.
Best Foldable Fitness Bike FAQs
How do I choose a foldable fitness bike?
Consider budget, ordering/assembly, resistance type, comfort/convenience features, and portability when selecting a foldable fitness bike.
RELATED: Comprehensive Guide on How to Choose an Exercise Bike
Can you get a good workout on a foldable fitness bike?
Advanced exercisers might find foldable fitness bikes insufficient for intense workouts, needing bikes with higher resistance or programs. However, beginners can definitely get a good workout. Even experienced fitness enthusiasts can use them for warm-ups or increasing daily activity.
RELATED: How to Program Your Own Effective Workouts
Are exercise bikes good for losing weight?
Any exercise machine can aid weight loss, but it requires more than just exercise. Sustainable weight loss occurs by burning more calories than consumed, achieved through exercise, nutrition, sleep, and stress management.
RELATED: Can You Lose Weight Effectively on an Exercise Bike?
Is it okay to use an exercise bike every day?
Yes, daily exercise bike use is acceptable. Remember to incorporate rest days as needed.
Should I get an exercise bike, an elliptical, or a treadmill?
Treadmills, ellipticals, and exercise bikes have distinct uses, pros, and cons. Reading reviews for treadmills and exercise bikes can help you decide which cardio equipment best suits your needs.
Is a foldable fitness bike worth it?
Yes! They are space-saving, generally affordable, and promote daily activity.
How much should a foldable fitness bike cost?
Quality foldable fitness bikes are available under $500, often much less if you forgo advanced features.
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Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC
Further reading
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Complete Guide to Compound Exercises and Why They Reign King in the Weight Room
Looking for efficient gym exercises? Discover the best compound exercises to maximize your workout time! Read more
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TrueForm Trainer Treadmill Review 2024: Budget-Friendly Curved Treadmill
Our review of the TrueForm Trainer, a budget-friendly manual treadmill, comparing it to the TrueForm Runner. Read more
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How to Measure Jump Rope Length: 5 Steps to the Right Fit
Ensure your jump rope is the perfect length with our 5-step guide for optimal fitness results. Read more
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We’ve Tested and Rated Them: The Best NordicTrack Exercise Bikes
Our evaluation of the best NordicTrack exercise bikes for home gyms, assessing tech, durability, and user experience. Read more
table of contents
- Dozens of Fitness Bikes Tested and Reviewed by Certified Personal Trainers
- Top Foldable Fitness Bikes of 2024
- Best Overall Foldable Fitness Bike: Marcy Foldable Upright Exercise Bike
- Best Adjustable Foldable Fitness Bike: LEIKE X Bike Ultra-Quiet Foldable Fitness Bike
- Best Budget Foldable Fitness Bike: Pooboo Foldable Exercise Bike
- Best Compact Foldable Fitness Bike: Sharper Image Space Saving Stationary Bike
- Other Foldable Fitness Bikes We Tested
- How We Picked and Tested the Best Foldable Fitness Bikes
- Benefits of Foldable Fitness Bikes
- What to Look for in a Foldable Fitness Bike
- Best Foldable Fitness Bike FAQs
