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We put the 13 best exercise bikes through an epic shootout test: Peloton, NordicTrack, Schwinn, Wahoo, Yosuda, and more
Credit: Matt Lighthart
By Joshua Hutchens ⋅ Senior Review Editor ⋅ Updated October 13, 2026
You know you've found the perfect exercise bike when the resistance feels less like a punishment and more like a challenge you actually want to win.
The clear best overall exercise bike is the Peloton Bike+. It is the gold standard of at-home cycling with a large, rotating screen that seamlessly transitions your workout from the saddle to the floor. With its famously smooth magnetic resistance, best-in-class instructors, and an auto-resistance feature that adjusts to the trainer's cues, it delivers the most complete and engaging at-home fitness experience available.
The Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike is our pick for the best budget exercise bike. It's highly adjustable, uses friction to create resistance, and won't cost you any additional app subscription fees.
If you are looking to pull out all the stops, the best premium exercise bike is the NordicTrack X24. It delivers an immersive workout experience that targets more muscle groups than a typical spin bike. Using iFit, the bike can automatically adjust your incline, resistance, and even the fan to match the terrain and speed you're riding. It's amazing, but not cheap.
We rigorously tested the top 12 stationary bikes on the market to identify their key strengths and differences. We bought the apps, hit the classes, and worked up a sweat to judge the bikes, their accessories, and the instruction. Here are some of our favorites at differing price levels.
Editor's Note: On October 13, we totally overhauled the specs and metrics and added in a few new models.
Quick Picks
Here's a quick list of our favorite Exercise Bike recommendations.
The Peloton Bike+ is the best exercise bike we have ever used because of a critical differentiator: instead of staring at the equipment with dread, you actively want to get on, see the instructors, and chase a personal best. While the 100 levels of silent magnetic resistance and a pedal setup that feels like a real road bike are nice, the real value is how world-class coaching gets you excited to work out. Its Auto-Follow system seamlessly adjusts resistance to match the instructor's cues, keeping you locked into the motivation of the daily live and on-demand classes. That programming continues off the bike, as the rotating screen makes it easy to transition into Yoga, Core, and Meditation routines with the same instructors. The premium experience extends to the delivery, which includes professional assembly. Validating how seamlessly the hardware and software work together, tester Joshua Hutchens notes, “No one else is making an exercise bike that integrates this well with their fitness app.” Tester Victoria McNamara agrees, stating, “The Peloton workout is incredibly engaging and makes me want to spend more time spinning away the miles on this bike.” For riders who want that immersive studio feel and coaching that eliminates workout dread, look no further.
The main drawback of the Peloton Bike+ is the total cost, which combines a high upfront price with a mandatory monthly All-Access membership. Without that active subscription, the built-in screen is basically useless. Riders who want a wider variety of programming outside of spin classes might prefer something like the NordicTrack X24, which costs half as much. If you don't get excited by the instructors, look elsewhere. All that said, the Peloton is our favorite bike because of the incredible equipment quality and instructors.
Compact footprint with surprisingly stable out-of-saddle performance
Belt drive and heavy flywheel provide quiet operation
CONS
Friction-based resistance pad feels less smooth than magnets
Basic monitor lacks Bluetooth and built-in workout programming
Short seatpost restricts fit for riders over six feet
SPECIFICATIONS
Style
Upright
Software & Subscription
None
Display
LCD display
Measured Weight
68.8 lbs
Measured Dimensions
40.5" L x 21.5" W x 45" H
The Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike delivers an impressive, budget-friendly spin workout by pairing a heavy 35-pound flywheel with a quiet belt drive. Its minimal 40.5" x 20.5" footprint makes it ideal for tight spaces, and at just 68.8 pounds, it is easy for one person to assemble and wheel out of the way. Despite being half the weight of premium studio bikes, the frame remains stable and handles intense, out-of-the-saddle efforts surprisingly well. Most testers praised the comfortable seat, adequate handlebar adjustments, and convenient additions like cage pedals, a water bottle holder, and a built-in device shelf. This straightforward design has remained unchanged for years, earning a solid reputation for long-term durability.
The primary compromise with the Yosuda is its reliance on friction-based resistance, which requires a physical brake pad rubbing against the wheel rather than the smooth, silent magnets found on bikes like the Schwinn IC4. Sizing is also a constraint; our 6-foot tester completely maxed out the seat height, making this bike a poor fit for taller riders. Technologically, the Yosuda is as basic as it gets—the small 1.5" LCD screen displays only one metric at a time, offers zero built-in workouts, and has no Bluetooth connectivity for fitness apps. You are entirely in charge of your own pacing and entertainment. If you have the budget and the floor space, stepping up to the Schwinn IC4 provides a much smoother magnetic ride and a far more informative display, but for pure affordability, the Yosuda is hard to beat.
We set up the Yosuda at home to test how easy it was to assemble, how little space it took up, and how the overall workout experience rated. Credit: Jeremy Benson
Huge swiveling touchscreen supports streaming apps like Netflix
CONS
We experienced hardware defects and frustrating customer support
The massive 200-pound frame is very difficult to move
SPECIFICATIONS
Style
Spin
Software & Subscription
iFit - $39/mo (Screen) or $15/mo (App)
Display
24" touchscreen
Measured Weight
205 lbs
Measured Dimensions
59.5" L x 22.2" W x 64.7" H
The X24 delivers an incredibly immersive cycling experience that goes far beyond a traditional stationary bike. Its innovative SmartAdjust technology physically tilts the entire frame to replicate outdoor terrain, automatically changing your incline and resistance as you ride. The magnetic resistance provides a smooth, quiet pedal stroke, while a built-in fan automatically speeds up as you work harder to mimic outdoor wind. The bike's standout feature is its massive, swiveling HD touchscreen powered by the iFit app. While it offers plenty of studio classes, the Follow Trainer workouts truly shine. These scenic global rides pair engaging coaching with the SmartAdjust system, so the bike automatically handles the resistance and you can focus on the ride. As one tester noted, “The production quality, automatic adjustments, and large screen create an immersive experience unlike any other.” The sturdy frame comfortably supports up to 350 pounds, and the pivoting display makes it easy to transition to off-bike workouts.
The X24's main drawbacks are its massive footprint and our frustrating customer service experience. The bike demands a large 59.5 x 22.2" dedicated space, and because the frame weighs nearly 200 pounds and lacks a rear lift handle, moving it around your home is exceptionally difficult even with the front transport wheels. More concerningly, our test unit arrived with a defective screen, which required a challenging and tedious replacement process through the manufacturer's tech support team. Dealing with quality control and service hurdles is highly disappointing at this premium price point. However, once the machine is fully operational, the ride quality itself is undeniable. As tester Joshua Hutchens put it, “While the customer service left a bad taste in my mouth, the working bike is spectacular.”
Motorized flywheel lets you actually coast on virtual downhills
Unmatched adjustability perfectly mimics your real outdoor road bike
CONS
Massive price tag is overkill for average indoor fitness routines
You must provide your own screen to view training apps
SPECIFICATIONS
Style
Road Trainer
Software & Subscription
Wahoo SYSTM - $18/mo optional
Display
None
Measured Weight
93 lbs
Measured Dimensions
60" L x 30" W x 46" H
The Wahoo KICKR Bike Pro is unlike every other bike in this review. This isn't a spin bike or casual exercise machine; it is the ultimate training tool for serious cyclists who want to replicate their exact fit and bike dynamics. The bike is a masterpiece of fit and elegance, with a 5-point micro-adjustment system and quality touchpoints that deliver the most realistic cycling feel we've ever experienced. With Reality Shift brake hoods that can emulate any drivetrain, fully programmable gearing, and physical grade changes that actually tilt the bike, it feels more like a bike than anything that has come before it.
The KICKR offers up to 2500 watts of resistance, from an electromagnetic resistance unit paired with a motor. This gives the drivetrain a realistic feel, allowing for hard sprints, coasting, and even inertia while descending. While the bike is compatible with a bevy of apps, Wahoo SYSTM and Zwift feature prominently; controllers built into the brake hoods allow you to control a gamified ride in Zwift or change grades in SYSTM. While this is a seriously expensive piece of equipment, it far surpasses the ride quality of any trainer or exercise bike. If you're a serious road or gravel cyclist who wants to commit to off-season training, this could be your ticket.
Affordable alternative to expensive touchscreen studio bikes
Bluetooth easily connects your tablet to third-party apps
Includes hand weights, heart monitor, and hybrid pedals
CONS
Requires your own tablet to stream video classes
Resistance numbers do not perfectly match Peloton classes
SPECIFICATIONS
Style
Spin
Software & Subscription
Tablet Required (Zwift, Peloton, JRNY)
Display
LCD display
Measured Weight
106 lbs
Measured Dimensions
48.75" L x 21.25" W x 52" H
The Schwinn IC4 delivers high-quality spin workouts at an exceptional price by letting you bring your own screen. Its biggest strength is Bluetooth compatibility, which lets you mount your tablet on the built-in device shelf and connect directly to popular apps like JRNY, Zwift, or Peloton. Because you are using the app-only version of Peloton rather than their premium hardware tier, you'll save around $20 per month on subscriptions, and the bike itself costs nearly $1,500 less than the Peloton Bike+ while offering very similar ride quality. The IC4 features 100 levels of quiet magnetic resistance, excellent seat and handlebar adjustability, and a highly stable frame. Testers consistently ranked it among the most comfortable bikes in our lineup. Schwinn also adds excellent value with hybrid pedals (compatible with both regular shoes and cycling cleats), dual water bottle holders, 3-pound hand weights, and a Bluetooth heart rate armband.
The main compromise with the IC4 is its basic, utilitarian aesthetic. Instead of a massive, glowing touchscreen, you get a small, uninspiring 4-inch LCD console that simply displays raw workout metrics. While this functional display works perfectly fine when you aren't using a tablet, it lacks visual appeal. Additionally, our testing revealed that the bike's internal power readings (wattage) run approximately 10% higher than a calibrated professional power meter. This slight inflation is fine for casual fitness and basic app integration, but it could frustrate serious cyclists focused on strict, accurate power training. Finally, watch pricing; Schwinn and Bowflex share ownership, and the Bowflex C6 is the same bike as the IC4, so buy whichever model is on sale.
The surprisingly capable, sturdy, and affordable IC4. We have tested this bike for over five years and are still impressed with its performance, durability, and value. Credit: Jeremy Benson
Padded, ventilated seat provides exceptional lower back support
Highly adjustable track accommodates a wide variety of heights
Bluetooth easily connects your tablet to third-party apps
CONS
Large, heavy frame requires significant dedicated floor space
Wide pedal spacing may cause hip or knee discomfort
SPECIFICATIONS
Style
Recumbent
Software & Subscription
Tablet Required (Zwift, JRNY)
Display
LCD display 7"
Measured Weight
108 lbs
Measured Dimensions
64.5" L x 28.5" W x 46.5" H
The Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike successfully combines extreme comfort with serious workout capability. We dubbed it active furniture because its large, padded seat and ventilated backrest provide exceptional lumbar support during long cardio sessions. Finding the right fit is easy thanks to a sliding seat track that accommodates a wide variety of heights, and the 25 levels of magnetic resistance deliver a smooth, quiet ride. Tester Rachael Lamore noted, “Even during hard pushes, the drivetrain felt consistent and balanced.” Compared to cheaper models like the Marcy ME-709, testers immediately noticed the 290's superior stability and solid construction. The built-in display outperforms most competitors at this price, and Bluetooth connectivity to fitness apps like JRNY provides a real training advantage.
The 290's main drawback is its size: it demands a substantial 1838 sq. inch footprint—400 sq. inches larger than the Marcy—and weighs 108 pounds, though front transport wheels make it somewhat manageable to move. While the step-through design is generally easy to mount, the narrow frame opening might challenge users with severely limited mobility. Additionally, the pedal spacing is exceptionally wide—the widest we've tested—which could cause hip or knee discomfort for some riders over long distances. Finally, while the seat slides back and forth smoothly, neither the seat back nor the handlebars can tilt, limiting your ability to fine-tune your upper body posture. Despite these issues, the excellent ride quality and robust build make this a comfortable, highly capable machine.
The Schwinn 290 is a large and comfortable machine that has enough tech to keep you engaged and motivated. Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Product Comparison Table
We tested all of the bikes in this review for an extended period to learn their ins and outs and identify their strengths and weaknesses. Credit: Jeremy Benson
How We Tested
We've tested exercise bikes for years, continuously expanding our selection from budget spin bikes to premium connected models. After purchasing each bike, we document the assembly process (noting exceptions where professional assembly was included). We then spend months using each model, often comparing them back-to-back across the full resistance range—from easy spins to intense intervals. Multiple testers evaluate exercise quality across various classes and utilize their adjustments. We purchase all app memberships to explore features and workout programs thoroughly, logging dozens of hours assessing comfort and functionality. You can read more about how we tested exercise bikes here.
We're passionate about spin bikes and have numerous testers who love to grind out the miles to help us parse out the differences. All of our reviews follow the same approach: we personally purchase the top products and conduct scientific expert testing to compare, rate, and review them. We don't accept freebies, demo models for testing, or equipment in exchange for a review.
Why Trust GearLab
Over the past eight years, we have purchased and tested over 60 exercise bikes using strict performance metrics to isolate true differences in quality. Extensive ride testing lets us evaluate physical resistance alongside a deep dive into companion app integration—which today dictates a bike's overall value as much as the hardware itself.
Joshua Hutchens led our budget exercise bike test. Hutchens is the Senior Bike Review Editor at GearLab and has worked with bicycles his entire life. Hutchens maintains strict year-round cardio conditioning, transitioning to exercise bikes, indoor trainers, and treadmills when snow limits trail access. Leveraging his extensive background in bicycle fit and training, he rigorously field-tests everything from budget hardware to premium connected platforms like iFit. During the riding season, he logs hundreds of miles on Lake Tahoe single-track and instructs mountain biking at the local community college.
Also testing for this review is Jeremy Benson. Benson draws on decades of competitive cycling experience, racing at the pro level in endurance gravel and mountain bike events. A seasoned GearLab contributor, he maintains his off-season fitness through backcountry skiing and extensive indoor riding. Over the past 20 years, Benson has evaluated virtually every category of indoor trainer and stationary bike—from commercial studio rigs to budget home models—developing a highly refined understanding of the mechanics, ride feel, and features that separate the best hardware on the market.
From unboxing to pouring out the sweat, we analyze every aspect of these bikes.
Analysis and Test Results
Each model underwent the same rigorous testing process and evaluation. We identified several important metrics for each model's performance: exercise quality (including companion apps), comfort, user interface, features, and setup and portability. We took extensive notes during testing and scored each model on our predetermined metrics to identify our award winners and top recommendations.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
Modern connected fitness equipment hides its best features—HD touchscreens, metric tracking, and automatic hardware adjustments—behind steep upfront costs and ongoing monthly subscriptions. While this premium software integration is highly effective for maintaining consistent training habits, budget-conscious buyers have excellent alternatives that avoid paywalls entirely.
Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike: Strips away digital frills to provide a reliable, heavy-duty workout. It is an ideal, durable platform for self-motivated riders who don't need virtual coaching.
Schwinn AD6: A straightforward air bike requiring zero ongoing operating fees. While testers note, “It's not as entertaining as the more expensive competition,” its low initial purchase price and lack of subscription costs deliver outstanding long-term savings.
DeskCycle Under Desk Exerciser: The ultimate low-commitment option. It offers extreme portability, convenient storage, and an affordable, highly accessible entry point into daily activity.
It doesn't get much simpler or more compact than this. Credit: Jeremy Benson
Understanding App Integration & Total Cost of Ownership
When evaluating connected bikes, you must calculate the long-term operating costs. Fitness apps typically use a gated, two-tier subscription structure. Opting for the cheaper app-only tier will severely limit the equipment's functionality.
Subscription Costs
model
App
Recommended Monthly Subscription
Minimum Monthly Subscription
Monthly Cost Over 5 Years (machine and recommended subscription)
Peloton Bike+
Peloton
$44
$20
$86
Echelon EX-5S
EchelonFit
$40
$12
$67
Bowflex VeloCore
JRNY
$20
$12
$57
NordicTrack X24
iFit
$39
$15
$67
Echelon Connect EX-8s
EchelonFit
$40
$12
$82
BowFlex IC Bike SE
JRNY
$20
$12
$38
Ride Experience & Programming
Does it wobble, creak, or flex under load? Is the resistance level adequate for intense workouts? Are the handlebars and saddle ergonomic, comfortable, and high-quality? Are the adjustments indexed? Is the q-factor too wide? Do the pedals work for multiple shoe types? These are the questions we answer when we evaluate exercise quality.
Premium models like the Peloton Bike+, NordicTrack X24, and Schwinn IC4 share comparable build quality and stability, with robust frames that handle intense sprints and climbs without issue. All provide extensive fit adjustments for comfort and performance, though indexed settings on some models may leave you between ideal positions—slightly too high or too low. Each employs smooth magnetic resistance with varying adjustment levels (100, 32, or 24 gradations), yet their maximum and minimum resistance ranges are surprisingly consistent across models.
The X24 draws you in with captivating cinematography and excellent instruction. Credit: Natalie Kafader
The NordicTrack X24 has an automatically adjustable incline/decline, and the iFit app's trainer-led scenic rides and SmartAdjust resistance and incline help simulate real-world riding and deliver a unique, immersive experience. Peloton's Auto-Follow feature is similar to iFit in that your resistance changes automatically, but Peloton has the upper hand in studio classes, while iFit excels in scenic, on-location rides. The ability to tilt and turn the screen adds versatility, letting you follow non-biking classes in front of or next to the bike. These classes can help justify or offset the high cost of an app subscription.
The AssaultBike display isn't much to look at, but it covers the basics well. Credit: Abriah Wofford
In the budget category, the Schwinn IC4 sacrifices some style and adjustability but makes up for it with an extensive resistance range and Bluetooth connectivity for seamless app integration. It's ideal for moderate exercisers who appreciate its simple design. The Yosuda strips away virtually all premium features yet delivers a solid workout experience, letting you provide your own entertainment. The savings could easily cover a Netflix subscription or other streaming service to enjoy during rides.
Excellent exercise quality combines with a high level of integration for an immersed feel that is hard to beat on the X24. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Companion App/Connectivity
Today's exercise bikes have evolved from simple machines into sophisticated connected devices with sensors and large internet-enabled displays. While not everyone needs advanced connectivity and apps, they deliver genuine value through entertainment, engagement, and community building. Our testers initially approached connected fitness with skepticism, yet most discovered that these features became powerful motivators. Whether drawn to a charismatic instructor, scenic virtual locations, or structured programs, the apps consistently inspired us to ride more frequently. An unused bike is wasted money at any price point. Conversely, a compelling fitness experience that excites you daily is truly priceless.
The Bike+ touchscreen is excellent, and the picture quality is the best of all the models we tested. Credit: Laura Casner
All the bikes we tested can be used with apps, but not all of them have screens or require an app. Exceptions, like the Echelon bikes, cannot be used at all without Wi-Fi and an active membership. While Peloton has the biggest name in home spin classes, it has worthy competitors, but none offer spin classes as engaging.
The display provides a significant amount of information, and there's room for entertainment. Credit: Joshua Hutchens
JRNY offers standard studio classes (fewer than Peloton's library), Explore the World scenic rides, and numerous “virtual coach” programs. What sets JRNY apart is its customization—pair virtual coach workouts with your preferred music genre or scenic route, or stream Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ (subscriptions required) directly on the screen. The bike's compatibility with Peloton and Zwift via your own device keeps you from being locked into a single platform.
The iFit app feels engaging, informative, and enjoyable. Exploring new areas of the world was a great distraction from burning quads and dripping sweat. Credit: Natalie Kafader
The NordicTrack X24's iFit app delivers exceptional immersion. Classes automatically adjust resistance, incline, and fan speed while charismatic instructors guide you through stunning global locations and share insights about local history, wildlife, and landscapes. The cinematic production quality transforms indoor cycling into virtual travel experiences spanning continents.
You get terrain changes, visual appeal, instruction from a fitness professional and loads of data to help you enjoy the process. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Screenless bikes can still deliver connected experiences through your tablet or Smart TV. Budget-friendly options like the Schwinn IC4 and Yosuda let you choose your preferred entertainment platform.
The low-impact, choose-your-own-intensity AD6 quickly became a tester favorite. Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Fit & Adjustability
We evaluate each model's fit range, comfort features, and critical touchpoints, including seats and handlebars. Our testing includes precise measurements of vertical and horizontal adjustability for both seats and handlebars, which determine accommodation for various rider heights and body types. We assess seat and handlebar comfort through multiple rides of varying durations and intensities to understand real-world performance.
Adjusting the Peloton seat and resistance is fast and intuitive. Credit: Chris McNamara
Non-indexed adjustments on the X24 allow you to get exactly the fit you want without compromise. Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Echelon EX-5s and Schwinn IC4 provide both vertical and horizontal handlebar adjustments to reduce upper-body strain. Performance-oriented saddles on many models may prompt you to invest in padded cycling shorts. While the NordicTrack X24 and Peloton Bike+ both offer extensive adjustability, the X24 distinguishes itself with infinite adjustment rather than indexed positions. Most bikes use notched settings, which can be problematic—I found Echelon's seat height options always fell slightly above or below my ideal position, compromising comfort. Standard saddle adjustments include vertical and fore-aft positioning, enabling you to modify the effective seat tube angle, engage different muscle groups, and fine-tune your reach to the handlebars.
The X24 offers unmatched adjustability. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Even the least expensive models, like the Yosuda, Schwinn 130, and Schwinn IC4, offer a wide range of saddle adjustability but have limited handlebar adjustments, larger seats, and more basic handlebars.
Not only does it swivel and tilt, but the touchscreen on the Peloton Bike+ has the best resolution and color of all the models we tested. Credit: Jeremy Benson
Display & Controls
The user interface refers to how a rider interacts with their exercise bike. Some models have simple dials or buttons to control resistance and digital displays to view metrics and information pertinent to your workout. In contrast, others feature touchscreens that connect to companion apps, letting you view workouts while you ride. Between the basic bikes and the premium models are bikes that connect via Bluetooth to your tablet or phone, which becomes your display, so you can use various training apps.
The Peloton Bike+ impressed us the most among the screen-equipped models we tested. The 23.8-inch HD touchscreen has excellent resolution, color, and touch sensitivity. Plus, it swivels and tilts, so you can position it for viewing from any angle. The Bike+ includes a knob for manual resistance control and an optional Auto-Follow mode that adjusts resistance automatically, so you can focus more on your workout.
Workout quality is reasonable but plagued with “features” Credit: Abriah Wofford
The NordicTrack X24 features a 24-inch HD touchscreen with vibrant color and sharp resolution, comparable to Peloton's display. The screen swivels and tilts for versatile viewing, though its tilt range somewhat restricts positioning for floor-based workouts. The X24 integrates seamlessly with iFit, delivering an immersive app experience. Unlike other premium models that rely on resistance knobs, the X24 uses handlebar-mounted buttons for manual incline and resistance adjustments, or lets SmartAdjust handle changes automatically.
The ability to rotate the screen gives the bike a bit more versatility, many of the apps offer strength and yoga classes. Credit: Jeremy Benson
Two additional screen-equipped models offer quality displays with limited adjustability for off-bike workouts. The Echelon EX-5s pairs a manual resistance knob with a 22-inch screen that tilts and flips, enabling front-facing viewing but not side angles. Among screenless models, the Schwinn IC4 features a resistance knob, a compact digital display showing multiple metrics, and a device holder for Bluetooth app connectivity. The Schwinn 130 Upright uses buttons for resistance control and offers Bluetooth pairing to turn your device into a display with compatible apps.
The Bowflex VeloCore has lots of features like bottle holders, hand weights, and dual-function pedals, plus its lean feature is very unique. Credit: Jeremy Benson
Build Quality & Accessories
Some exercise bikes are pleasantly simple to use and operate, with few features, while others come loaded with features ranging from water bottle holders to heart rate monitors, and other helpful additions like storage areas for your smartphone or tablet. You can get a great workout on a no-frills machine, but many models now come with all the extras you could dream up. The best features are useful and impactful for the rider or offer something unique to the overall experience.
The NordicTrack X24 offers something a little extra with its incline feature. It might not suit everyone, but seasoned cyclists will appreciate the added realism in ride quality. The bike also includes dumbbells, fans, a USB outlet, and water bottle holders.
Easy-to-reach dumbbells let you engage your upper body while you spin out the miles. Credit: Abriah Wofford
The Peloton Bike+ also has a swiveling screen you can position in any direction for on- and off-bike workouts, plus excellent speakers and the new Auto-Follow feature that automatically adjusts resistance based on the class you're following. For the models without a screen, the Schwinn IC4 offers a lot, including dual-function pedals, hand weights, water bottle holders, and Bluetooth connectivity to pair with your device and connect with the JRNY app and various third-party apps.
Most bikes look like this when removed from their packaging. The NordicTrack X24 was the most time-consuming to assemble, and it arrived with a non-functional screen. Credit: Jeremy Benson
Size & Setup
Most exercise bikes, except those that include professional assembly, arrive in a large box and require some assembly before use. We assembled each bike using the included instructions and tools to evaluate setup ease. We noted the relative difficulty and time it took to complete the process. For portability, we considered each model's weight, how easy it is to move around, and its footprint and overall dimensions to see how much space it occupies. These bikes take up a fair amount of space, although the higher-end models with large touchscreens tend to be slightly larger overall.
Moving the Peloton around is awkward but not too heavy or difficult. Credit: Chris McNamara
The clear winner for setup is the Peloton Bike+, which includes delivery and professional assembly in the purchase price. You'll need to clear space for the delivery team to assemble the bike. The bike has a relatively average footprint compared to other high-end models, but its large touchscreens make it tall and noticeable in any room. At 140+ pounds each, these bikes are best kept in a dedicated workout space, though their transport wheels make them fairly easy to move on firm, flat surfaces.
Some assembly required. Credit: Jeremy Benson
The Schwinn Upright 130 and Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike performed well in this metric for their quick, easy assembly and smaller dimensions. Unlike heavier, higher-end bikes with more complicated assemblies, these models required fewer steps and less time to set up. With the smallest footprints of all the bikes tested, they also take up much less space in your home.
The Schwinn AD6 and Echelon EX-5s weren't particularly difficult to assemble, but their heavier weight and the number of steps involved make them more time-consuming. Set aside 1-2 hours and enlist another person for several steps, especially when connecting the wires and attaching the consoles to the Bowflex and Echelon bikes. Because it lacks a large screen, the AD6 is lighter and has a smaller footprint, while the EX-5s are a fair bit larger and heavier but comparable to other similar bikes with screens.
While the assembly was a bit more involved, the instructions were clear and all of the tools were provided. Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different types of exercise bikes?
Spin Bikes: These are the most common type of exercise bike used for building fitness and getting intense workouts. They have a large flywheel with magnetic or friction resistance. Spin bikes also generally come with apps and classes. Generally, the highest-rated exercise bikes are spin bikes. With spin bikes, your legs are always moving; you don't coast. This makes the workout more intense than riding a road bike, where you often coast on flats and downhills.
Upright Bikes: These put you in a more upright position compared to a spin bike and are generally for more moderate workouts. Most upright bikes don't have built-in large screens for classes; instead, they have smaller LCD screens for basic built-in workouts. Some upright bikes offer a folding option for storage in a closet or corner of your room. Folding bikes are generally lighter but less stable, so be more careful when getting on and off them, and don't stand up during a workout.
Recumbent Bikes: These bikes put you in a leaned-back sitting position that is generally more comfortable and easier on your back. People use recumbent bikes for lower-intensity workouts and rehabilitation.
Under-Desk: These are the smallest exercise bikes and can generally fit under a couch or in a tight space. Many people use them while sitting in an office chair or living room chair for a light workout and to get the blood flowing. They typically don't come with apps and are not ideal for intense workouts.
Fan Bikes: These bikes engage both your arms and legs while moving a fan. It's a very intense, specific workout popular with CrossFit and other high-intensity routines. They generally don't come with programs or online classes.
Do You Need Online Classes?
The type of online classes you want to take (or not) is a major factor in both the upfront cost of an exercise bike and the monthly and total lifetime cost. The most expensive bikes often require subscriptions that can cost anywhere from $10 to $50 a month. Conversely, the least expensive bikes often don't require subscriptions or don't even offer them. Are the subscriptions worth it? That's an individual question. In general, subscription classes like Peloton can motivate some people or entertain others, but they add high cost to your training program.
Are You Better Off With a Bike Trainer?
Bike trainers allow you to attach your road bike after removing the rear wheel. This lets you use equipment you may already have without fitting a new bike or buying a large piece of equipment. Bike trainers generally occupy very little space and are more affordable, but some high-end options rival the price of the best exercise bikes. The downside is that you'll need to supply your own road bike, and it will take some mechanical wear. Depending on how dedicated you make your road bike to the trainer, you may need setup time every time you want to work out. Check out our review of bike trainers to see why dedicated cyclists rely on these clever and compact machines.
Four spin bikes are ready for our side-by-side tests. Credit: Jeremy Benson
Other Notable Exercise Bikes to Consider
-We loved the Schwinn IC4, which is essentially the same bike as the Schwinn 800IC and the Bowflex C6, depending on which market you're in. The bike is a solid workout companion, and you can sometimes find one of the models at a lower price.
-The Peloton Bike, which is the predecessor to the Bike+ we reviewed above, is a quality machine and a great way to experience the Peloton classes at a lower cost. The bike itself is virtually identical, but its older screen is slightly smaller. Deals are available, but watch out for Peloton's used-bike activation fee.
Conclusion
An indoor bike is a critical hardware investment for year-round conditioning. Whether you require precision magnetic resistance to train fitness or a durable friction-based workhorse for raw power, choosing the right mechanics ensures long-term reliability and performance.
