Finding the best exercise bike can transform your home workout routine, offering a convenient and effective way to stay fit. With numerous options available, it’s crucial to choose a bike that meets your specific needs and fitness goals. This guide delves into some of the top exercise bikes on the market, based on rigorous testing and analysis, to help you make an informed decision.
Bowflex VeloCore: A Sturdy and Innovative Option
The Bowflex VeloCore stands out as a robust and well-constructed exercise bike, offering a unique feature that sets it apart: a lean mode. This bike is available in 16-inch ($1,800) and 22-inch ($2,200) screen sizes and includes a one-year membership to Jrny, Bowflex’s workout-streaming app.
Unique Lean Feature and Performance
The VeloCore’s lean mode simulates the experience of riding a traditional bicycle, allowing you to lean from side to side during your workout. While this feature adds an element of novelty, it requires practice and may not feel entirely natural compared to outdoor cycling. The bike boasts fully adjustable seat and handlebars, catering to various body types and preferences. Its dual-sided pedals are compatible with both cycling shoes (SPD cleats) and regular sneakers using toe cages, providing versatility for different users.
With 100 levels of magnetic resistance, the VeloCore offers precise control over workout intensity. However, some screen shaking may occur at higher pedaling cadences, especially when standing. Despite this minor issue, the bike generally provides a solid and enjoyable riding experience.
Workout Content and App Integration
The Jrny app, included with the VeloCore, provides on-demand, instructor-led video workouts for both on and off-bike exercises. While informative, the workout content might lack the dynamic energy and diverse intensity levels found in platforms like Peloton. The Jrny subscription costs $20 per month after the initial free year.
For users who prefer other workout platforms, the VeloCore is compatible with apps like Peloton and Zwift via external devices. However, syncing the VeloCore’s cadence monitor with the Peloton app was not successful in tests. The bike also supports streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and Disney+ (subscriptions required), allowing for entertainment during workouts.
Diamondback 510ic: Availability Challenges
The Diamondback 510ic was tested in 2022 but faced significant issues during the evaluation process. The initial unit arrived with a broken motor, and a subsequent replacement bike also presented problems with a malfunctioning RPM sensor, requiring a replacement part. Due to these reliability concerns and current unavailability, the Diamondback 510ic may not be a dependable option for those seeking the Best Exercise Bikes.
Echelon Connect Bike EX-5: App-Dependent and Resistance Concerns
The Echelon Connect Bike EX-5 utilizes your own tablet (mounted on a holder) to connect to the Echelon Fit app ($39 per month), offering a similar experience to Peloton with features like a leaderboard and dual-sided pedals.
Unpredictable Resistance and App Dependency
During testing, the resistance knob on the Echelon EX-5 was found to be less predictable compared to the Peloton Bike. There was often uncertainty about whether the displayed resistance level accurately reflected the actual pedaling resistance. Notably, the resistance is not adjustable when the bike is not connected to the app and engaged in a class, significantly limiting its stand-alone functionality.
Workout Content and App Organization
Echelon’s app offers a comparable number of daily live classes to Peloton, along with a library of over 3,000 on-demand workouts, both on and off the bike. While the instructors are generally enthusiastic and capable, the overall app organization is not as streamlined as Peloton’s, and the quality of rides and trainers can vary.
Echelon Connect Bike EX-5s: Inconsistent Performance
The Echelon Connect Bike EX-5s is an upgraded version featuring a built-in screen for Echelon’s workout content. Despite smooth rides, the EX-5s exhibited inconsistent resistance during testing. Testers reported feeling like they were making significant adjustments to the resistance knob without a clear and reliable response from the bike. Handlebar wiggle and a pedal placement that felt too forward were also noted as drawbacks. The busy and cluttered home screen of the Echelon app and subpar water-bottle holders further detracted from the overall experience.
Keiser M3i: Premium Design and App Versatility
The Keiser M3i is recognized for its elegant design, featuring V-shaped handlebars and sleek aesthetics. It seamlessly connects to the Keiser M Series app and other cycling and workout apps, including Strava and Peloton.
Smooth Resistance and Wide Compatibility
The M3i offers 24 levels of resistance, adjustable via a smooth lever. It accommodates a broad range of user heights (4 feet 10 inches to 7 feet) and a high maximum weight capacity (350 pounds), making it a versatile choice. Testers enjoyed using the M3i, particularly with the Peloton app. However, its features and capabilities may be best suited for serious cyclists with specific training goals.
Myx II Plus: Comprehensive Home Gym Kit
The Myx II Plus is an enhanced version of the Myx Plus, offering a complete home gym package. It includes a Star Trac bike, a 21.5-inch tablet with an upgraded sound system and camera, and a range of exercise equipment. A subscription to Beachbody On Demand Interactive (BODi, $39 per month) provides access to live and on-demand group classes.
Integrated Fitness Ecosystem
The Myx II Plus comes with a 6-by-4-foot exercise mat, a bike mat, resistance band, dumbbells, a kettlebell, and a foam roller. A Polar OH1 heart-rate monitor is also included and encouraged for use during workouts, allowing for personalized intensity adjustments based on heart rate. While effective for tailored workouts, acclimating to heart-rate-based training may take time, and losing or forgetting to charge the monitor can impact the Myx workout experience. The Myx II (without the extra equipment) is also available for those who prefer just the bike.
NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike: Feature-Rich but Unstable
The NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike is packed with features, including a 22-inch tablet that displays iFit workout content ($39 per month for family plan, $15 per month for individual plan). It automatically adjusts resistance, incline, and decline during iFit rides.
Stability and Durability Concerns
Despite its features, the S22i suffered from noticeable screen shaking during rides of varying intensities. The screen mount and handlebars also felt unsteady. A significant durability issue was encountered with the first test unit, where the left pedal fell off mid-ride. While a replacement bike was provided, similar pedal issues have been reported by other users. The bike is large and bulky, making it difficult to move, and adjusting handlebar height can be challenging due to the screen’s size and weight.
Sole SB900: Undefined Resistance and Disappointing Features
The Sole SB900 did not impress testers. The resistance felt undefined, requiring excessive knob turning to notice changes. The safety break lever is separate from the resistance knob, which seemed unnecessary. The device and water-bottle holders felt cheap, and the handlebars were uncomfortable. The LCD console requires external USB charging. Overall, the Sole SB900 offers a mediocre experience and is not a standout option among the best exercise bikes.
SoulCycle At-Home Bike: Music-Focused and Style-Driven
The SoulCycle At-Home Bike is designed for those who enjoy indoor-cycling classes centered around music and rhythm. It requires a $40-per-month subscription to the Equinox+ app, which includes SoulCycle and other fitness options.
Beat-Based Workouts and Solid Construction
SoulCycle classes prioritize riding to the beat of the music over traditional metrics. Off-bike workouts are not accessible on the bike’s screen and need to be viewed on a separate device. The bike is well-built and comfortable, featuring a clear 21.5-inch touchscreen (non-rotating). Dual-sided pedals and adjustable handlebars enhance user fit. The magnetic resistance is responsive and smooth. However, the SoulCycle approach is specific, focusing on “beat match” percentage rather than conventional progress tracking, which may not appeal to all users.
Yosuda Pro Indoor Cycling Bike L-010: Cheap Feel and Poor Performance
The Yosuda Pro Indoor Cycling Bike L-010 was a disappointment due to its cheap construction and unsatisfactory performance. Testers described it as feeling like a “tin can.” The resistance was unresponsive, the flywheel was noisy, and the LCD screen was barely readable. The Yosuda Pro is not recommended as one of the best exercise bikes due to these significant shortcomings.
Conclusion
Choosing the best exercise bike depends on individual priorities and preferences. While models like the Bowflex VeloCore offer innovative features and solid performance, others like the NordicTrack S22i come with trade-offs in stability and durability. Bikes like the Echelon series present app-dependent experiences, and the SoulCycle bike caters to a specific music-driven workout style. Ultimately, carefully considering factors like resistance, features, app integration, build quality, and workout preferences will guide you to the best exercise bike for your home fitness journey.
