Indoor bikes have become a popular choice for home fitness enthusiasts, offering a convenient and effective way to stay active regardless of the weather. If you’re looking for the Best Indoor Bike to add to your home gym, understanding the features, benefits, and drawbacks of different models is crucial. This guide explores some of the top indoor bikes available, helping you make an informed decision.
Bowflex VeloCore: A Leaning Experience
The Bowflex VeloCore stands out with its unique leaning feature, designed to mimic the feel of riding a road bike. Available in 16-inch ($1,800) and 22-inch ($2,200) screen sizes, this bike offers a sturdy build and access to a variety of workouts through a one-year membership to Jrny, Bowflex’s workout-streaming app.
While the lean mode is an interesting addition that can add some fun to your indoor cycling, it may require some practice to master, and it might not feel as natural as turning on a real bike. The VeloCore features adjustable seat and handlebars, dual-sided pedals for cycling shoes (SPD cleats) or sneakers, and 100 levels of magnetic resistance. The resistance is generally precise, but the screen may wobble at higher speeds, especially when standing.
The Jrny app provides on-demand, instructor-led workouts, both on and off the bike. However, some users might find the content less energetic and diverse compared to platforms like Peloton. The VeloCore does allow connection to other apps like Peloton and Zwift via external devices, but syncing the cadence monitor with Peloton app may not be seamless. Streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and Disney+ are also available for entertainment during your rides.
Diamondback 510ic: Availability Issues
In 2022, the Diamondback 510ic was tested, but encountered significant issues. The first bike received had a broken motor, and the replacement unit also presented problems with a malfunctioning RPM sensor. These issues raise concerns about the reliability and quality control of this model. Currently, the Diamondback 510ic is unavailable, making it difficult to recommend as a best indoor bike option.
Echelon Connect Bike EX-5 and EX-5s: App-Dependent Experience
The Echelon Connect Bike EX-5 operates using your own tablet and the Echelon Fit app, which costs $39 per month. It offers dual-sided pedals and a display similar to the Peloton Bike, including a leaderboard. However, the resistance knob can feel unpredictable, making it hard to gauge the actual resistance level. A significant drawback is that resistance adjustment is limited when not connected to the app and engaged in a class, reducing its versatility for casual riding.
The Echelon app offers a comparable number of daily live classes to Peloton and a large on-demand library. While instructors are enthusiastic, the overall app organization might not be as user-friendly as Peloton’s, and the quality of rides and trainers can vary.
The upgraded Echelon Connect Bike EX-5s features a built-in screen for Echelon’s workouts. While it provides a smooth ride, the resistance inconsistency persists, and the handlebars may feel wobbly. Some users might find the pedal positioning too forward, leading to an awkward posture. The home screen interface is also considered cluttered, and the water bottle holders are basic. These aspects might detract from the overall user experience, especially when considering it as a best indoor bike.
Keiser M3i: Premium Design and Connectivity
The Keiser M3i is praised for its beautiful design, V-shaped handlebars, and broad compatibility with various cycling and workout apps. It easily connects to the Keiser M Series app, which tracks rides and syncs with apps like Strava. The bike offers 24 smooth resistance levels adjustable via a lever and accommodates a wide range of user heights and weights.
The Keiser M3i provides a pleasant riding experience and works well with apps like Peloton. It is particularly suitable for serious cyclists with specific training goals due to its precise resistance and data tracking capabilities. Its premium features and robust build quality position it as a strong contender for the best indoor bike, especially for dedicated cyclists.
Myx II Plus: Comprehensive Home Gym Kit
The Myx II Plus is a complete home gym package. It includes a Star Trac bike with sensors for cadence, distance, and speed, along with a 21.5-inch tablet for streaming Beachbody On Demand Interactive (BODi) workouts. BODi subscription costs $39 per month and offers live and on-demand classes.
Beyond the bike, the Myx II Plus includes a variety of exercise equipment like mats, resistance bands, dumbbells, a kettlebell, and a foam roller. A Polar OH1 heart-rate monitor is also included to personalize workouts based on effort levels. While the comprehensive kit is convenient, acclimating to heart-rate based training might take time. If the heart-rate monitor is not available, a significant aspect of the Myx workout experience is lost. The Myx II, a more basic version without the extra equipment, is also available.
NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike: Feature-Rich but Unstable
The NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike is packed with features, including a 22-inch tablet for iFit workouts ($39/month family plan, $15/month individual plan). It automatically adjusts resistance, incline, and decline during iFit rides. However, the screen shakes noticeably during rides, and the overall build feels unsteady. There have been reports of pedal issues, adding to concerns about its durability.
The NordicTrack S22i is large and bulky, making it difficult to move. Adjusting handlebar height can also be challenging due to the screen’s size and weight. While feature-rich, the stability and potential durability issues might make it a less appealing option for those seeking the best indoor bike.
Sole SB900: Undefined Resistance and Basic Features
The Sole SB900 provides an adequate riding experience but lacks standout features. The resistance feels undefined, requiring significant knob turns for noticeable changes. The safety break lever is separate from the resistance knob, which is considered less convenient than combined systems. The device and water bottle holders feel cheap, and the handlebars are not particularly comfortable. The LCD console requires external USB charging. Overall, the Sole SB900 is a functional but unexciting option that may not be the best indoor bike for most users.
SoulCycle At-Home Bike: Music-Focused Experience
For those who enjoy indoor cycling classes as dance parties, the SoulCycle At-Home Bike is tailored to rhythm-based riding. It requires a $40/month subscription to the Equinox+ app for SoulCycle classes, which prioritize riding to the beat of music over metric tracking. Off-bike workouts are not accessible on the bike’s screen.
The SoulCycle bike is solidly built and comfortable, featuring a clear 21.5-inch touchscreen and responsive magnetic resistance. Handlebars are adjustable for a customized fit, and dual-sided pedals accommodate SPD or Delta cleats. However, the SoulCycle experience is specific to its style, focusing on “beat match” percentage rather than traditional progress metrics. This may not appeal to users seeking data-driven workouts for the best indoor bike experience.
Yosuda Pro Indoor Cycling Bike L-010: Budget Option with Drawbacks
The Yosuda Pro Indoor Cycling Bike L-010 is a budget-friendly option but suffers from a cheap feel and performance issues. Testers found the resistance unresponsive, the flywheel loud, and the LCD screen dim and difficult to read. The overall experience was unsatisfactory, making it hard to recommend as a best indoor bike unless budget is the absolute primary concern and compromises on quality are acceptable.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Indoor Bike for You
Selecting the best indoor bike depends heavily on individual needs and preferences. Factors to consider include budget, desired workout experience (data-driven vs. music-focused), connectivity with apps, build quality, and required features. While some bikes like the Keiser M3i stand out for their premium design and performance, others like the Bowflex VeloCore offer unique features. Bikes like the Echelon series and NordicTrack S22i provide app-integrated experiences, while models like the SoulCycle At-Home Bike cater to specific workout styles. Budget options like the Yosuda Pro come with significant compromises. Carefully evaluate your priorities and compare the pros and cons of each model to find the best indoor bike that fits your home gym and fitness goals.
