Indoor cycling bikes have revolutionized home fitness, offering a convenient and effective way to exercise regardless of the weather or time constraints. For those looking to bring the studio experience home, choosing the Best Indoor Cycling Bike can be a game-changer. This guide analyzes some of the top models on the market, based on rigorous testing and real user experiences, to help you find the perfect fit for your fitness journey.
Bowflex VeloCore: Innovative Leaning and Immersive Experience
The Bowflex VeloCore stands out with its unique leaning feature, designed to mimic the feel of outdoor cycling. Available in 16-inch ($1,800) and 22-inch ($2,200) screen sizes, this bike offers a robust build and a comprehensive workout experience through a one-year membership to Jrny, Bowflex’s workout-streaming app.
While the leaning mode is an intriguing addition, it requires practice and might not feel entirely natural compared to riding a traditional bike. The VeloCore excels in adjustability with fully adjustable seat and handlebars, catering to a wide range of users. It also features dual-sided pedals, compatible with both SPD cleats for cycling shoes and toe cages for regular sneakers. The 100 levels of magnetic resistance provide precise control over workout intensity. However, some screen shake at higher cadences, especially when standing, was noted during testing.
The Jrny app, costing $20 per month after the initial year, offers a variety of on-demand and instructor-led workouts, both on and off the bike. While the content is informative, it may lack the high energy and diverse intensity levels found in platforms like Peloton. Despite this, the VeloCore offers compatibility with other apps like Peloton and Zwift via external devices, though syncing the VeloCore’s cadence monitor with Peloton was not successful in tests. Streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and Disney+ are also accessible directly on the bike’s screen for entertainment during longer sessions.
Diamondback 510ic: Challenges in Reliability
The Diamondback 510ic faced significant hurdles during testing in 2022. The initial unit arrived with a faulty motor, and a replacement bike also presented issues with a malfunctioning RPM sensor, requiring a replacement part. These reliability concerns raise questions about the overall durability and quality control of this model. As of the latest information, the Diamondback 510ic is currently unavailable, which may reflect ongoing issues or a product update.
Echelon Connect Bike EX-5: Tablet-Based and Budget-Conscious
The Echelon Connect Bike EX-5 utilizes a user-provided tablet to connect to the Echelon Fit app ($39/month), offering a more budget-friendly entry point into connected fitness. Connectivity is established via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. The bike includes dual-sided pedals and a display similar to the Peloton Bike, including a leaderboard for competitive workouts.
However, the resistance knob on the EX-5 was found to be less predictable compared to the Peloton Bike, making it difficult to accurately gauge and adjust workout intensity. Notably, resistance adjustment is disabled when not connected to the app and engaged in a class, significantly limiting its standalone usability. While Echelon offers a comparable number of daily live classes and a large on-demand library (3,000+ workouts) to Peloton, the app organization is less refined, and the quality of instructors and workouts can vary.
Echelon Connect Bike EX-5s: Integrated Screen and Inconsistent Performance
An upgraded version, the Echelon Connect Bike EX-5s, features a built-in screen for a more streamlined experience. While the EX-5s provides a smooth ride, the resistance inconsistency issue persists, making it challenging to confidently adjust workout intensity. Handlebar wobble was also reported during testing. One tester noted an awkward riding position due to the forward placement of the pedals, creating a feeling of being too close to the handlebars and screen. The Echelon home screen interface was described as cluttered and busy. Improvements could be made to the water bottle holders as well. Overall, the Echelon Connect Bike EX-5s did not fully meet expectations given its upgraded status.
Keiser M3i: Premium Design and Broad Compatibility
The Keiser M3i is distinguished by its sleek design, V-shaped handlebars, and wide compatibility with various cycling and workout apps. It seamlessly connects to the Keiser M Series app for ride tracking and integration with apps like Strava. The bike offers 24 smooth resistance levels adjustable via a lever and accommodates a broad range of user heights (4’10” to 7’0″) and weights (up to 350 pounds).
Testers enjoyed using the M3i, including its compatibility with the Peloton app. However, its strengths and features may be best suited for serious road cyclists with specific training goals, potentially making it more advanced than necessary for casual home users.
Myx II Plus: Complete Home Gym and Heart Rate Integration
The Myx II Plus is a comprehensive home gym package, building upon the earlier Myx Plus model. It requires a subscription to Beachbody On Demand Interactive (BODi, $39/month) for access to live and on-demand classes. The Myx II Plus includes a Star Trac bike with sensors for cadence, distance, and speed, along with a 21.5-inch tablet and upgraded sound system.
The package also includes a generous exercise mat, bike mat, resistance band, dumbbells, kettlebell, and foam roller. A Polar OH1 heart rate monitor is included and encouraged for use with every workout, allowing for personalized workout scaling based on effort levels. While the included equipment is convenient, acclimating to heart rate-based training may take time for some users. The Myx II is also available without the additional exercise equipment.
NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike: Feature-Rich but Unstable
The NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike is packed with features, including a 22-inch tablet displaying iFit workouts ($39/month family plan, $15/month individual). It boasts automatic resistance, incline, and decline adjustments during iFit rides. However, significant screen shake during rides of varying intensities and instability in the screen mount and handlebars were noted. A serious pedal malfunction occurred on the first test unit, and similar issues have been reported by other users. The bike is large and bulky, making it difficult to move, and handlebar height adjustment was challenging due to the screen’s size and weight.
Sole SB900: Undefined Resistance and Basic Features
The Sole SB900 offered a less compelling experience compared to top picks. The resistance felt undefined, requiring significant knob turning to perceive changes. The separate safety break lever was deemed unnecessary. The device and water bottle holders felt cheaply made, and the thin, inward-angled handlebars were uncomfortable. The LCD console requires off-bike USB charging. Testers found it “fine” but not particularly exciting or studio-worthy.
SoulCycle At-Home Bike: Dance Party Focus and Style-Driven Workouts
For those prioritizing rhythm-based, dance-party-style indoor cycling classes, the SoulCycle At-Home Bike is a strong contender. SoulCycle classes, accessed via a $40/month Equinox+ subscription, emphasize riding to the beat of the music rather than strict metric tracking. Off-bike workouts are not accessible on the bike’s screen and require a separate device.
The bike is well-built and comfortable, featuring a clear 21.5-inch touchscreen (non-rotating) and dual-sided pedals. Handlebar adjustability is a plus. The magnetic resistance is responsive and smooth. However, the SoulCycle experience is style-specific, with the primary metric being “beat match” percentage, which may not appeal to users focused on traditional progress tracking.
Yosuda Pro Indoor Cycling Bike L-010: Budget Bike with Performance Limitations
The Yosuda Pro Indoor Cycling Bike L-010 was a disappointment due to its cheap construction and poor performance. Testers described it as feeling like a “tin can.” The resistance was unresponsive, the flywheel noisy, and the LCD screen dim and difficult to read, making it an unsuitable option for serious indoor cycling enthusiasts.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Indoor Cycling Bike for Your Needs
Selecting the best indoor cycling bike depends on individual priorities and preferences. The Bowflex VeloCore offers a unique leaning feature and immersive experience, while the Keiser M3i stands out for its premium design and broad compatibility, potentially appealing to serious cyclists. The SoulCycle At-Home Bike caters to those seeking rhythm-based, high-energy workouts.
Models like the Echelon Connect Bike EX-5 and EX-5s offer more budget-friendly options but come with compromises in resistance consistency and app experience. The NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike, while feature-rich, suffers from stability and reliability concerns. The Diamondback 510ic and Yosuda Pro Indoor Cycling Bike L-010 faced significant issues in testing, making them less recommendable. Ultimately, careful consideration of features, performance, and budget is essential to finding the best indoor cycling bike to meet your fitness goals.
