For those looking to bring the studio cycling experience into their homes, finding the Best Stationary Bike is a crucial step. A high-quality stationary bike can offer a fantastic full-body workout, improve cardiovascular health, and provide a convenient exercise option regardless of weather conditions. This guide delves into some of the top stationary bikes available, based on rigorous testing and expert reviews.
Top Stationary Bikes: A Detailed Look
Several models stand out in the crowded market of stationary bikes. Each offers a unique set of features, catering to different needs and preferences. Let’s explore some of the leading contenders.
Bowflex VeloCore: The Innovative Leaning Bike
The Bowflex VeloCore is a standout for its unique leaning feature, mimicking the feel of outdoor cycling. Available in 16-inch ($1,800) and 22-inch ($2,200) screen versions, this bike includes a year’s membership to Jrny, Bowflex’s workout streaming service.
Key Features and Performance:
- Leaning Mode: This innovative feature allows riders to lean from side to side, engaging core muscles and adding a new dimension to indoor cycling. While it takes practice and may not feel entirely natural initially, it offers a unique workout experience.
- Adjustability and Comfort: The VeloCore offers full adjustability in seat and handlebars, accommodating various body types. Dual-sided pedals are compatible with SPD cleats and toe cages for regular sneakers.
- Resistance and Technology: With 100 levels of magnetic resistance, users can fine-tune their workout intensity. However, some screen shake at higher cadences, especially when standing, was noted during testing.
- Workout Content: The Jrny app provides on-demand, instructor-led workouts, both on and off the bike. While informative, the content may lack the energy and intensity range found in platforms like Peloton. The bike does allow streaming from services like Netflix and Hulu. It is also compatible with other apps like Peloton and Zwift through separate devices, though syncing the cadence monitor with Peloton proved challenging.
Echelon Connect Bike EX-5 Series: App-Driven Fitness
The Echelon Connect Bike EX-5 and the upgraded Echelon Connect Bike EX-5s offer app-based workout experiences. The EX-5 uses your own tablet, while the EX-5s includes a built-in screen. Both require a $39/month Echelon Fit app subscription.
Key Features and Performance:
- App Integration: Echelon bikes heavily rely on their app for classes and functionality. The app offers live and on-demand classes, comparable in number to Peloton. However, the app’s organization and class quality can be inconsistent.
- Resistance Issues: Testers found the resistance knob unpredictable and inconsistent, making it hard to gauge workout intensity. Without app connectivity, resistance adjustability is lost.
- Build Quality Concerns (EX-5s): The EX-5s model had handlebars that wiggled, and the pedal placement felt awkward for some users.
Keiser M3i: Sleek Design and Wide Compatibility
The Keiser M3i is praised for its elegant design and broad compatibility with various fitness apps.
Key Features and Performance:
- Design and Build: The M3i boasts a visually appealing design with V-shaped handlebars and a robust build.
- Connectivity: It easily connects to the Keiser M Series app for ride tracking and syncs with apps like Strava and Peloton.
- Resistance and Adjustability: The bike features 24 smooth resistance levels adjusted via a lever and accommodates a wide range of user heights and weights.
- Target User: While enjoyable for general use, the M3i is particularly well-suited for serious cyclists with specific training goals due to its precise metrics and compatibility with advanced cycling apps.
Myx II Plus: A Complete Home Gym Package
The Myx II Plus offers more than just a stationary bike; it’s a comprehensive home gym solution with included fitness equipment and the BODi workout platform ($39/month).
Key Features and Performance:
- All-in-One Fitness Solution: The Myx II Plus comes with a Star Trac bike, a 21.5-inch tablet, exercise mats, resistance bands, dumbbells, a kettlebell, and a foam roller.
- BODi Workout Platform: Subscription provides access to live and on-demand classes.
- Heart Rate Monitoring: Includes a Polar OH1 heart-rate monitor to personalize workouts based on effort levels. This feature is central to the Myx workout philosophy but may require some user acclimation.
NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike: Feature-Rich but with Drawbacks
The NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike is packed with features, including a 22-inch screen and iFit workout streaming ($39/month family plan).
Key Features and Performance:
- Feature Overload: Offers automatic resistance, incline, and decline adjustments during iFit rides.
- Stability Issues: The screen shook noticeably during testing, and the bike felt bulky and hard to move.
- Quality Concerns: Reports of pedal failures and handlebar height adjustment difficulties raise concerns about long-term durability.
Sole SB900: A Basic Option with Undefined Resistance
The Sole SB900 is a more basic stationary bike that didn’t particularly impress testers.
Key Features and Performance:
- Undefined Resistance: Testers found the resistance vague and requiring significant knob turns for noticeable changes.
- Unconventional Design: Features like a separate safety break lever and less comfortable handlebars were noted as drawbacks.
- Basic Console: The LCD console requires off-bike charging.
SoulCycle At-Home Bike: Music and Rhythm Focused
For those who prioritize music and rhythm-based workouts, the SoulCycle At-Home Bike is designed for the SoulCycle experience, requiring an Equinox+ app subscription ($40/month).
Key Features and Performance:
- SoulCycle Experience: Classes focus on riding to the beat of music, with “beat match” as a primary metric.
- Solid Build and Comfort: The bike is well-built and comfortable, with a responsive magnetic resistance.
- Specific Focus: Appeals to those who enjoy the SoulCycle workout style but may not satisfy users seeking traditional performance metrics.
Yosuda Pro Indoor Cycling Bike L-010: Budget Option with Compromises
The Yosuda Pro Indoor Cycling Bike L-010 is a budget-friendly option but received negative feedback from testers.
Key Features and Performance:
- Low Quality Feel: Described as feeling “cheap” and “tin can”-like.
- Poor Performance: Unresponsive resistance, loud flywheel, and dim LCD screen detracted from the workout experience.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Stationary Bike
Selecting the best stationary bike depends heavily on individual needs, preferences, and budget. While models like the Bowflex VeloCore offer innovative features and the Keiser M3i provides a premium experience, other bikes cater to specific workout styles or budget constraints. Carefully consider your priorities in terms of workout experience, technology integration, and build quality to make an informed decision and find the ideal stationary bike for your home gym.
