Editor’s Note: The Exerpeutic 400XL Recumbent Bike is no longer in production. We suggest viewing the Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Bike as the best alternative, or view our list of the best recumbent exercise bikes for more options.
Are you searching for an affordable and low-impact cardio workout solution for your home gym? You might have stumbled upon the Exerpeutic 400XL recumbent bike. This folding recumbent bike is designed to offer a gentle pedaling motion while being space-saving and compact.
Recumbent bikes, especially the best recumbent bikes, are often recommended for individuals recovering from injuries, surgeries, or those with limited mobility due to their easy step-through design. While the Exerpeutic 400XL isn’t a traditional step-through model, it’s considered a semi-recumbent bike, sitting slightly higher than fully reclined versions. This design can be advantageous if you’re focusing on building leg strength.
Over 20+ Recumbent Bikes Rigorously Tested
At Garage Gym Reviews, we pride ourselves on our independent and thorough testing methodology for fitness equipment. Our team comprises seasoned fitness industry professionals with extensive experience evaluating everything from budget-friendly ellipticals to top-of-the-line commercial treadmills.
For this detailed Exerpeutic 400XL recumbent bike review, Kate Meier, GGR’s senior director of content and a fitness expert, personally tested the bike. Kate assembled it and put it through various workouts. Her credentials include being a competitive weightlifter, a USAW-L1 coach, a CrossFit Level 1 trainer, and a NASM-certified personal trainer.
During testing, Kate evaluated the Exerpeutic 400XL across 12 key categories using our comprehensive fitness equipment testing methodology, scoring each on a scale of 1 to 5. Key categories included:
- Durability: Assessing the bike’s stability during workouts, its weight capacity, and flywheel weight.
- Adjustability and Ergonomics: Examining seat and backrest padding, and seat adjustability (vertical and horizontal).
- Tech Capabilities: Evaluating console information and Bluetooth connectivity for apps.
Seeking an Alternative to the Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike?
Considering the Exerpeutic 400XL is discontinued, the Marcy Recumbent ME-709 presents itself as a compelling alternative.
Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike
Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike angled product shot
GGR Score: 3.4
Product Highlights
- Recumbent exercise bike design
- 8 levels of silent magnetic resistance
- Step-through frame for easy access
- LCD display for essential workout metrics
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Easy step-through frame design
- Informative LCD display
- Weighted, counter-balanced pedals
- Free shipping availability
Cons
- Seat discomfort reported by some users
- Limited to 8 resistance levels
- Short 2-year warranty
- Sparse customer reviews
- Seat distance adjustment can be challenging
Bottom Line
The Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Bike is a budget-friendly, basic option, ideally suited for exercise beginners.
While the Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike is no longer available, numerous excellent alternatives are on the market. We recommend the Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Bike as a strong substitute.
The Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Bike ranks third on our list of the best recumbent exercise bikes due to its functionality and affordability. Priced around $200, it’s in a similar price range to the Exerpeutic 400XL.
This bike prioritizes simplicity and essential features over advanced technology, providing everything you need in a recumbent exercise bike for basic workouts. It boasts a wide 40-centimeter seat with comfortable padding. Coop, from Garage Gym Reviews, noted the seat is significantly more comfortable than typical bike seats.
The Marcy ME-709 includes an LCD display that tracks key stats like time, distance, calories, and speed. It’s designed for users who prefer straightforward metrics without complex features. Users toggle through stats using a mode button, ideal for those who value simplicity over data overload.
Coop’s testing indicated it’s a good fit for shorter individuals, noting its lightweight and easy maneuverability. Though not foldable, its portability allows for easy storage when needed.
Similar to the Exerpeutic 400XL, the Marcy ME-709 supports a 300-pound weight capacity, weighs under 65 pounds, has adjustable foot straps, and offers 8 resistance levels, making it a comparable and reliable alternative.
A Quick Overview of the Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike
Exerpeutic is a brand focused on health and therapeutic exercise equipment, offering low-impact cardio machines like ellipticals and various exercise bikes, including upright, traditional recumbent, and indoor cycling bikes.
RELATED: Stationary Bike vs Elliptical: Which is Best for Your Workout?
The Exerpeutic 400XL folding exercise bike is designed for low-impact cardio workouts. It features eight levels of magnetic resistance and a built-in heart rate monitor on the handlebars to help you track your target heart rate.
Key Considerations Before You Buy
- The Exerpeutic 400XL’s availability on Amazon can fluctuate.
- It features a semi-recumbent design, a middle ground between upright and traditional recumbent bikes.
- Utilize the hand pulse sensors on the seat handles to monitor your heart rate during workouts.
Is the Exerpeutic 400XL Recumbent Bike a Good Value?
According to our expert product tester, Kate Meier, the Exerpeutic 400XL is a basic, budget-oriented piece of fitness equipment. “With this bike, you truly get what you pay for,” she states.
However, if you prioritize compactness, affordability, and reasonable durability, this bike could be a great option. Its small footprint, lightweight design, and folding capability make it ideal for small spaces and easy storage.
It’s not the right choice if you’re seeking advanced features like a touchscreen display or interactive programming. The Exerpeutic 400XL has a simple LCD display showing distance, calories, time, speed, and heart rate—essential workout metrics without extra frills.
RELATED: The Best Exercise Bikes With Virtual Courses for Immersive Training
Ideal For:
- Small living spaces
- Users with limited mobility
- Individuals needing low-impact exercise
Not Recommended For:
- Avid cyclists seeking high performance
- Users over 6’2” or heavier than 300 lbs
- Exercisers desiring dynamic and interactive workouts
Exerpeutic 400XL Recumbent Bike: Detailed Specs
| Price | Around $200 on Amazon |
|---|---|
| Footprint | 33″ L x 19″ W x 46″ H |
| Product Weight | 53 lbs |
| Weight Capacity | 300 lbs |
| User Height Range | 5’2″ to 6’2″ |
| Display | 3.3″ W x 1.5″ H LCD |
| Resistance Type | Magnetic |
| Resistance Levels | 8 |
| Warranty | 1-year frame, 90-day parts |
Workout Experience on the Exerpeutic 400XL Recumbent Bike
GGR expert tester and certified personal trainer Kate Meier not only assembled the Exerpeutic 400XL but also rigorously tested it across multiple workout sessions, including interval training to assess its performance at higher intensities.
Kate immediately noticed its semi-recumbent nature, which provides a more upright posture compared to more reclined recumbent bikes, such as the NordicTrack Commercial R35 featured in our NordicTrack Commercial R35 review.
However, folding exercise bikes are not common in the market of best exercise bikes. We’ve tested several and included top picks in our best folding exercise bike guide. If space-saving cardio equipment is your priority, the Exerpeutic 400XL is noteworthy.
Exerpeutic Recumbent Bike setup in a living room setting
Footprint and Portability Analysis
The Exerpeutic 400XL folding exercise bike excels in footprint and portability, earning a 5-out-of-5-star rating. It includes transport wheels, is lightweight at 53 pounds, and features a folding mechanism, meeting all our criteria for top scores in this category.
Even unfolded, the Exerpeutic has a small footprint of 33 inches in length and 19 inches in width. Folding it nearly halves its length, making storage exceptionally easy.
“When folded, it’s about 8 inches long,” Kate mentioned. “And with the built-in wheels, it’s incredibly easy to move around, just like a small suitcase.”
RELATED: Marcy Foldable Exercise Bike Review: A Budget-Friendly Option for Small Spaces
Durability and Construction Assessment
Our exercise bike testing methodology sets a benchmark of a 275-pound user weight limit for a 3-star durability rating. We assess user weight limit, flywheel weight, and real-world workout experience to determine the final score.
Kate was impressed by the stability of this budget-friendly, compact recumbent bike during use. It earned a 4.5-out-of-5-star rating for durability, attributed to its 300-pound user weight limit and effective leg stabilizers that keep the bike firmly grounded.
“For such a compact bike, it feels very solid,” Kate remarked. A half-point was deducted because the flywheel weight isn’t specified, only described as a precision-balanced flywheel.
RELATED: Stationary Bike Workouts for Beginners: Get Started with Cardio
Ergonomics and Adjustability Features
Our product testers evaluate ergonomics and adjustability to determine how well a product accommodates a diverse range of users. Kate first noted the extra-large seat on the Exerpeutic 400XL. “It’s unlike a typical bike seat; it’s extremely cushioned and wide,” she explained.
While the seat is accommodating, adjustability is limited. The height is adjustable via a pop-pin, and pedal straps are adjustable to secure feet. However, there are no front-to-back seat adjustments. This may affect users with particularly short or long torsos, potentially impacting their riding comfort.
Exerpeutic Recumbent Bike parts laid out before assembly
Kate also pointed out that the handlebars are not adjustable, and the seat cannot be replaced. Consequently, the Exerpeutic Recumbent Bike received a 3.5-out-of-5-star rating for ergonomics and adjustability.
In terms of customization, exercise bikes are also rated. The Exerpeutic achieved a 3-star middle-of-the-road score. We typically look for at least 12 resistance levels. The Exerpeutic offers eight levels of magnetic resistance, manually controlled with a tension knob. Kate noted, “For a budget bike, you still get a decent level of customization.”
RELATED: Recumbent Bike vs Upright Bike: Which is Better for Your Home Gym?
Technology and Convenience Features
In technology and convenience, this approximately $200 bike offers basic features. It includes a basic LCD screen, just over 3 inches wide, for displaying time, distance, and speed. Tester Kate appreciated the inclusion of pulse grip sensors for heart rate monitoring, resulting in a 3.5-out-of-5-star rating for technology.
For conveniences, we assess features that enhance the workout experience. The Exerpeutic 400XL received a 1-star rating in this area. “It has a small phone holder but lacks a media shelf or water bottle holder,” Kate mentioned. “However, the console’s low profile is convenient for watching movies or shows while pedaling.”
RELATED: Best Exercise Bike With a Screen: Interactive and Immersive Options
Exerpeutic 400XL vs Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Bike: A Detailed Comparison
Marcy Recumbent ME-709
Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike
Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike angled product shot
GGR Score: 3.4
Product Highlights
- Recumbent exercise bike build
- 8 magnetic resistance levels, silent operation
- Step-through frame design for accessibility
- LCD console for workout data
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Step-through frame for easy access
- LCD display included
- Weighted pedals for smooth motion
- Free shipping available
Cons
- Seat comfort issues reported by users
- Limited 8 resistance settings
- Short 2-year warranty period
- Few customer reviews online
- Difficult seat distance adjustment
Bottom Line
The Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Bike is a simple, budget-friendly choice, best suited for those new to exercise.
While the Marcy ME-709 isn’t foldable, both it and the Exerpeutic recumbent bike are similarly priced and were both featured in our best budget recumbent bike roundup. Neither bike is a top recommendation among our testers, both receiving mid-range ratings. However, they offer affordable home exercise options for beginners, seniors, and individuals recovering from injuries.
Both bikes are available for under $200 on Amazon and feature basic LCD screens displaying essential metrics like speed and distance. The Exerpeutic 400XL includes pulse grip sensors for heart rate monitoring, a feature absent in the Marcy bike.
Another difference is the Exerpeutic 400XL requires plugging into a power outlet, while the Marcy ME-709 operates wirelessly on two AA batteries, allowing for placement anywhere without cord constraints (it also has transport wheels).
For comprehensive details, see our full Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike review.
| Exerpeutic 400XL Recumbent Bike | Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike |
|---|---|
| Footprint | 33″ L x 19″ W x 46″ H |
| Weight Capacity | 300 lbs |
| Display Type | LCD screen |
| Seat Adjustability | Yes, 27” to 37” inseam range |
| Pulse Grip Sensor | Yes |
| Warranty | 1-year limited |
Customer Experience with Exerpeutic
Exerpeutic cardio equipment is available on Amazon, offering fast delivery and free returns within a 30-day window. If the Exerpeutic recumbent bike doesn’t meet your needs, Amazon’s “Returns and Orders” section simplifies the return process.
Amazon lists the warranty as one-year limited, but further investigation on Paradigm Health & Wellness (Exerpeutic’s parent company) website reveals a more detailed policy: one year on the structural frame and 90 days on all other components, including the display, electronics, upholstery, foam, V-belt drive, and internal mechanisms.
Ordering and Assembly of the Exerpeutic 400XL Recumbent Bike
Ordering the Exerpeutic 400XL Recumbent Bike through Amazon is straightforward with one-click checkout. However, product availability can vary, so checking back may be necessary if it’s temporarily out of stock.
Exerpeutic Recumbent Bike packaged in its delivery box
Our tester, Kate, found both delivery and assembly seamless, rating the process 5-out-of-5 stars. Assembly took about 25 minutes, with user-friendly instructions and wiring detailed in the user manual.
Customer Reviews Analysis
The Exerpeutic 400XL folding recumbent bike has a 4.5-out-of-5-star rating on Amazon from over 5,000 reviews. Common feedback includes “good for the price” and “you get what you pay for.”
Some critiques mention pedal strap wear or breakage, issues with the magnetic tension control, and the console resetting at 999 miles. Mechanical issues are not unexpected for a bike in this price range.
Final Verdict: Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike Review
The Exerpeutic 400XL folding recumbent bike is an economical option, though not universally ideal. Our experts recommend it for individuals new to exercise or recovering from injury, as its resistance range is less challenging for advanced users. It’s also our top pick for the best exercise bike for seniors due to its stability and affordability.
Comprehensive Rating
Exerpeutic 400XL
Exerpeutic 400XL Recumbent Bike full product shot
This recumbent bike is surprisingly sturdy, lightweight, and foldable. It operates without needing to be plugged in and can be paired with an adjustable height workstation desk for use while working.
Product Brand: Exerpeutic
Product Currency: $
Product Price: 199.00
Product In-Stock: InStock
Editor’s Rating:3.3
Exerpeutic 400XL Recumbent Bike Ratings Breakdown:
Footprint and Portability – 5
Delivery and Setup – 5
Durability – 4.5
Customizations – 3
Adjustability and Ergonomics – 3.5
Tech Capabilities – 3.5
Conveniences – 1
Dynamic Programming – 0
Customer Reviews – 4.5
Value – 5
Financing, Warranty & Returns – 2
Customer Service – 3
Exerpeutic 400XL Recumbent Bike: Frequently Asked Questions
Who manufactures Exerpeutic bikes?
Paradigm Health & Wellness is the manufacturer and parent company behind the Exerpeutic brand.
What is a potential drawback of using a recumbent bike?
A potential disadvantage is less overall muscle engagement. The reclined position and backrest reduce core, back, and upper body engagement compared to upright or indoor cycling bikes.
Which recumbent bike is considered the best overall?
In our review of recumbent bikes, our top picks include:
- Best Overall: NordicTrack Commercial R35
- Best Value: Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike
- Best Budget: Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Bike
- Best for Seniors: Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike
- Best Foldable: Exerpeutic 400XL Recumbent Bike
- Best Adjustable: Sunny Health & Fitness Recumbent Exercise Bike
- Best Adjustable for Small Spaces: LEIKE X Bike Ultra-Quiet Folding Exercise Bike
Lauren Strong, CPT
Lauren Strong is a certified personal trainer with NSCA, working with clients across fitness levels. Specializing in squat, bench, and deadlift coaching, she introduces beginners to barbell training. Her background includes marketing roles after graduating from the University of Maine with a BA in Journalism. Writing for Garage Gym Reviews merges her passions for writing and fitness. Lauren enjoys cooking, reading, nature walks, and is a lifelong downhill skier. She lives in Maine with her husband and two cats.
Continue Reading
Transform Your Core with These Trainer-Approved Treadmill Workouts for Targeting Abs
Learn how treadmill workouts targeting abs can help define your midsection with routines and tips from a certified personal trainer. Read more
Best Recovery Shoes (2025): Expert-Tested Top 7 Footwear Picks
Discover the ideal post-workout recovery shoes with our expert review of the top 7 options. Read more
REP Bumper Plates vs Rogue Bumper Plates (2025): Plate Comparison Guide
The ultimate guide comparing REP Bumper Plates and Rogue Bumper Plates to help you decide which is best for your home gym. Read more
TimTam Percussion Massager In-Depth Review: Pain Relief and Recovery Tool
An in-depth review of the TimTam Percussion Massager, a handheld device for deep tissue massage and pain relief. Read more
