For those looking to bring the gym experience home, finding the Best Static Bike is crucial. A high-quality static bike, also known as an indoor cycling bike or stationary bike, can provide effective cardiovascular workouts, improve fitness levels, and offer convenience regardless of weather conditions. This guide examines several top models available on the market, highlighting their features, strengths, and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
Bowflex VeloCore: A Leaning Experience
The Bowflex VeloCore stands out with its unique lean feature, mimicking the side-to-side motion of outdoor cycling. Available in 16-inch ($1,800) and 22-inch ($2,200) screen sizes, this well-constructed bike includes a one-year membership to Jrny, Bowflex’s workout streaming service.
The lean mode, although innovative, might require a learning curve and may not feel entirely natural compared to riding a traditional bicycle. The VeloCore offers fully adjustable seat and handlebars, dual-sided pedals for cycling shoes (SPD cleats) or sneakers, and 100 levels of magnetic resistance. While the resistance is generally precise, the screen can shake at higher pedaling cadences, especially when standing.
Jrny app provides on-demand, instructor-led workouts both on and off the bike. While informative, the content may lack the energy and intensity variety found in platforms like Peloton. However, the VeloCore is compatible with other apps like Peloton and Zwift via separate devices, although syncing the cadence monitor with Peloton app was not successful in tests. For entertainment, streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and Disney+ are accessible directly on the bike’s screen with subscriptions.
Diamondback 510ic: Challenges in Testing
In 2022, testing the Diamondback 510ic proved challenging. The initial unit arrived with a broken motor, and a replacement bike suffered from a malfunctioning RPM sensor, requiring a part replacement. These issues highlight potential quality control concerns with this model.
Echelon Connect Bike EX-5: Tablet Integration
The Echelon Connect Bike EX-5 utilizes your own tablet (mounted on a holder) to connect to the Echelon Fit app ($39/month) via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. It features dual-sided pedals and a display similar to the Peloton Bike, including a leaderboard.
However, the resistance knob was found to be less predictable compared to Peloton, making it difficult to gauge the actual resistance level. Furthermore, resistance adjustment is disabled when not connected to the app and engaged in a class, limiting its standalone functionality. Echelon offers a comparable number of daily live classes and a large on-demand library, but the app organization and workout quality can be inconsistent compared to Peloton.
Echelon Connect Bike EX-5s: Built-in Screen and Inconsistent Resistance
The Echelon Connect Bike EX-5s is an upgraded version with a built-in screen for Echelon’s workouts. While providing a smooth ride, the resistance was again noted as inconsistent, with testers feeling unsure if the bike was responding accurately to knob adjustments. Handlebar wiggle and pedal positioning were also mentioned as concerns, contributing to a less-than-premium experience. The crowded home screen and basic water bottle holders further detract from the overall appeal.
Keiser M3i: Premium Design and App Connectivity
The Keiser M3i is praised for its elegant design, featuring V-shaped handlebars and seamless connectivity with various cycling and workout apps. It easily connects to the Keiser M Series app for ride tracking and syncing 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 M3i is enjoyable to use, especially with apps like Peloton, but its features and performance may be best suited for serious cyclists with specific training goals.
Myx II Plus: Complete Home Gym Kit
The Myx II Plus is an upgraded version of the Myx Plus, offering a comprehensive home gym package. It includes a Star Trac bike with sensor tracking, a 21.5-inch tablet, and a range of accessories like mats, resistance bands, dumbbells, and a kettlebell. A subscription to BODi (Beachbody On Demand Interactive) provides access to live and on-demand classes.
The included Polar OH1 heart-rate monitor encourages heart-rate based workouts, which can be effective but may require some familiarization for new users. While the Myx II Plus offers convenience and a lot of equipment, relying heavily on heart rate monitoring may be a drawback for some. The Myx II is also available without the extra exercise equipment.
NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike: Feature-Rich but Unstable
The NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike boasts a 22-inch tablet and iFit integration for studio and scenic rides with automatic resistance, incline, and decline adjustments. However, the screen shaking during rides and unsteady handlebars were significant issues during testing.
Pedal durability issues were reported, and the bike’s bulky size makes it difficult to move. Handlebar height adjustment was also challenging due to the screen’s weight. Despite its features, the NordicTrack S22i’s stability and build quality raise concerns.
Sole SB900: Undefined Resistance and Basic Features
The Sole SB900, while not entirely disliked, failed to impress testers. The resistance felt undefined, requiring excessive knob turning for noticeable changes. The safety break lever’s separate placement was considered unnecessary, and the device and water bottle holders felt cheap. Uncomfortable handlebars and a basic LCD console requiring external charging further contributed to its underwhelming performance. Testers found it “fine” but not studio-worthy.
SoulCycle At-Home Bike: Music and Rhythm Focus
The SoulCycle At-Home Bike prioritizes a dance party-like indoor cycling experience focused on riding to the beat of music, rather than metric tracking. It requires a $40/month Equinox+ app subscription for classes.
The bike is well-built and comfortable with a clear 21.5-inch touchscreen. Responsive magnetic resistance and adjustable handlebars are positives. However, the SoulCycle style is niche, emphasizing “beat match” over traditional progress tracking, which may not appeal to all users. Off-bike workouts are not accessible on the bike’s screen.
Yosuda Pro Indoor Cycling Bike L-010: Cheap Feel and Poor Performance
The Yosuda Pro Indoor Cycling Bike L-010 disappointed testers with its cheap construction and poor performance. Unresponsive resistance, a loud flywheel, and a dim LCD screen made for an unenjoyable experience, with one tester describing it as a “tin can”.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Static Bike
Selecting the best static bike depends on individual needs and preferences. The Bowflex VeloCore offers a unique leaning feature but consider if this novelty justifies its price. Echelon bikes offer app-based workouts but have inconsistencies in resistance and build quality. Keiser M3i excels in design and connectivity, appealing to serious cyclists. Myx II Plus provides a home gym package, while NordicTrack S22i is feature-rich but suffers from stability issues. Sole SB900 and Yosuda Pro models offer basic functionality but lack the refinement of higher-end options. SoulCycle At-Home Bike caters to a specific rhythm-focused workout style. Ultimately, consider your budget, desired features, workout preferences, and space constraints when choosing the best static bike for your home gym.
