Choosing the right exercise bike can transform your home workouts, making fitness more accessible and enjoyable. With a plethora of options on the market, from basic stationary models to high-tech interactive bikes, finding a Good Exercise Bike that fits your needs and budget is crucial. This guide delves into some of the top contenders, evaluating their features, performance, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
Bowflex VeloCore: Leaning into Innovation
The Bowflex VeloCore stands out with its unique lean mode, mimicking the experience of outdoor cycling. Available in 16-inch and 22-inch screen versions, this bike offers a robust build and a comprehensive workout experience through a one-year membership to Jrny, Bowflex’s workout streaming app.
The lean feature, while intriguing, requires practice and might not feel entirely natural initially. However, it adds a new dimension to indoor cycling, engaging core muscles and enhancing the workout. The VeloCore is highly adjustable, featuring a fully customizable seat and handlebars. It also accommodates both cycling shoes with SPD cleats and regular sneakers with toe cages, offering versatility for different users. The magnetic resistance, with 100 levels, provides precise control over workout intensity.
Despite its innovative lean feature and solid construction, the VeloCore’s screen can wobble at higher speeds, especially when standing. Moreover, while the Jrny app provides a range of on-demand and instructor-led workouts, some users may find its content less engaging compared to platforms like Peloton. However, the VeloCore does offer compatibility with other apps like Peloton and Zwift via external devices and supports streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu, offering entertainment during longer sessions.
Diamondback 510ic: A Test of Durability
The Diamondback 510ic, while tested in 2022, faced significant quality control issues during the review process. Initial units arrived with motor problems and sensor malfunctions, raising concerns about its reliability and long-term durability. This experience highlights the importance of considering brand reputation and quality control when choosing a good exercise bike.
Echelon Connect Bike EX-5 and EX-5s: App-Driven Workouts with Inconsistencies
The Echelon Connect Bike EX-5 relies on your own tablet and the Echelon Fit app for its functionality. It offers a Peloton-like experience with dual-sided pedals and a leaderboard display. However, the resistance knob’s unpredictability and dependence on the app for resistance adjustment can be drawbacks. Without app connectivity, the bike’s riding potential is significantly limited.
The upgraded Echelon Connect Bike EX-5s, featuring a built-in screen, aims to address some of these issues. While it offers a smooth ride, inconsistencies in resistance and wobbly handlebars were noted during testing. The pedal positioning was also criticized for feeling awkward in certain riding positions. The Echelon app, while offering a substantial library of live and on-demand classes, may lack the polished organization and consistent instructor quality found in competing platforms.
Keiser M3i: Sleek Design for Serious Cyclists
The Keiser M3i is praised for its elegant design, V-shaped handlebars, and broad compatibility with various cycling apps. It seamlessly connects with the Keiser M Series app and other popular platforms like Strava and Peloton. The bike’s lever-based 24 resistance levels offer smooth adjustments, and it accommodates a wide range of user heights and weights.
The Keiser M3i is a strong contender for serious cyclists seeking a high-quality indoor training bike. Its robust build and compatibility with training apps make it a versatile option for structured workouts and performance tracking. However, its focus on performance metrics might appeal less to casual users seeking a more entertainment-focused experience.
Myx II Plus: A Comprehensive Home Gym Package
The Myx II Plus distinguishes itself as a complete home gym solution, including a Star Trac bike and a range of workout equipment. A subscription to BODi (Beachbody On Demand Interactive) provides access to live and on-demand classes. The bike features a tablet with an upgraded sound system and camera, along with equipment like mats, resistance bands, dumbbells, and a kettlebell.
The included Polar OH1 heart-rate monitor encourages personalized workouts based on effort levels. While this approach is beneficial for optimizing training, it requires users to be comfortable with heart-rate monitoring. The Myx II Plus is ideal for those seeking a holistic home fitness system with varied workout options beyond just cycling. The Myx II, a more affordable version without the extra equipment, is also available.
NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike: Feature-Rich but with Build Concerns
The NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike is packed with features, including a 22-inch tablet displaying iFit workouts and automatic resistance, incline, and decline adjustments during rides. iFit, NordicTrack’s workout streaming platform, offers a wide variety of studio and scenic rides.
However, the S22i has faced criticism for screen shaking, unsteady handlebars, and pedal durability issues. Some users have reported pedals falling off, raising concerns about the bike’s overall build quality. Its bulky size and difficulty in moving it are also drawbacks. Despite its feature-rich nature, potential reliability issues and build quality concerns should be carefully considered.
Sole SB900: An Undefined Experience
The Sole SB900, while not entirely disliked, failed to impress testers. Its resistance was described as undefined, requiring significant knob turning for noticeable changes. The separate safety break lever was deemed unnecessary, and the overall feel of the bike was underwhelming. Cheap-feeling components and uncomfortable handlebars further detract from the experience. The LCD console’s need for external charging adds an inconvenience. The Sole SB900 may be a functional bike, but it lacks the refinement and engaging experience offered by top-rated models.
SoulCycle At-Home Bike: Rhythm-Based Riding
The SoulCycle At-Home Bike caters to those who enjoy dance party-style indoor cycling classes focused on riding to the beat of music. It requires a subscription to the Equinox+ app, providing access to SoulCycle classes and other fitness options. The bike boasts a solid build, comfortable design, and a clear 21.5-inch touchscreen.
The magnetic resistance is responsive and smooth, and the handlebars offer fore and aft adjustments. However, the SoulCycle experience prioritizes “beat match” metrics over traditional performance tracking, which may not appeal to all users. The off-bike workouts are not accessible on the bike’s screen, requiring a separate device. The SoulCycle bike is ideal for fans of the SoulCycle workout style and those seeking a fun, music-driven fitness experience.
Yosuda Pro Indoor Cycling Bike L-010: A Disappointing Budget Option
The Yosuda Pro Indoor Cycling Bike L-010 fell short of expectations due to its cheap feel and poor performance. Testers described it as a “tin can” due to unresponsive resistance, a loud flywheel, and a dim LCD screen that was difficult to read. This bike serves as a cautionary example of budget options that may compromise on quality and user experience. Investing in a slightly more expensive, reputable brand is generally advisable for a good exercise bike experience.
Conclusion: Choosing Your Good Exercise Bike
Selecting a good exercise bike depends on individual needs and preferences. The Bowflex VeloCore offers innovation with its lean feature, while the Keiser M3i is a top choice for serious cyclists. The Myx II Plus provides a comprehensive home gym solution. The SoulCycle At-Home Bike is perfect for rhythm-based workouts. However, bikes like the Diamondback 510ic, Echelon series, NordicTrack S22i, Sole SB900, and Yosuda Pro L-010 presented various drawbacks in testing, ranging from quality control issues to underwhelming performance. Carefully consider your workout style, desired features, budget, and brand reputation when choosing the best exercise bike to enhance your home fitness routine.
