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We put the 14 best exercise bikes through an epic shootout test: Peloton, NordicTrack, Schwinn, Renpho, Echelon, Yosuda, and more.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
By Joshua Hutchens ⋅ Senior Review Editor ⋅ Updated January 7, 2026
We put the top 14 stationary bikes available today through rigorous testing to identify their key strengths and differences. We bought the apps, hit the classes, and poured out the sweat to determine the quality of the bikes, their accessories, and instruction. Here are some of our favorites at differing price levels.
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.
The Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike is the best budget exercise bike. It's highly adjustable, utilizes friction to create resistance, and won't burden you with additional app subscription fees.
The X24 delivers an immersive cycling experience that goes beyond traditional stationary bikes. Its innovative SmartAdjust tilt technology physically angles the entire bike to replicate mountain terrain, dynamically adjusting resistance as you engage different muscle groups throughout your climb. The weighted flywheel responds to your intensity, and the integrated fan automatically accelerates as you pedal harder, recreating the sensation of wind resistance. Using Silent Magnetic Resistance, the X24 offers one of the most authentic indoor rides available.
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight Limit
350 lbs
Display
24" touchscreen
Resistance Settings
24 levels
Resistance type
Magnetic
Measured Dimensions
59.5" L x 22.2" W x 64.7"
Companion App
iFit (subscription required)
Style
Spin
Pedal type
Cage / SPD
The X24's standout feature is its iFit integration on a 24" HD touchscreen. Using Bluetooth FTMS protocol, resistance and incline adjust automatically to match your virtual rides, while the adjustable frame, ergonomic saddle, and pivoting display provide comfort and versatility.
iFit features over 180 trainers offering various classes, but the Follow Trainer workouts truly shine. These on-location rides through global destinations pair engaging instruction with SmartAdjust technology that handles resistance automatically. As one tester noted, “The production quality, automatic adjustments, and large screen create an immersive experience unlike any other.”
The swiveling screen enables off-bike workouts, though the 59.5 x 22.2" footprint requires adequate space. The sturdy frame supports up to 350 pounds but weighs nearly 200 pounds itself, with transport wheels but no rear lift handle. Note that we encountered a defective screen requiring a challenging replacement process through tech support. As tester Joshua Hutchens put it, “While the customer service left a bad taste in my mouth, the working bike is spectacular.”
The Peloton Bike+ is Peloton's flagship model, upgrading the original with a 23.8-inch swiveling HD touchscreen, enhanced speakers, and Auto-Follow resistance that adjusts automatically to instructor cues. Though pricey, it includes free delivery and professional assembly.
The sleek design features 100 levels of silent magnetic resistance and a 170mm q-factor for an authentic ride feel. As tester Joshua Hutchens notes, “No one else is making an exercise bike that integrates this well with their fitness app.” Daily live classes and thousands of on-demand options across various lengths and genres showcase why Peloton has cultivated such a devoted community. The swiveling screen also enables off-bike workouts beyond cycling.
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight Limit
297 lbs
Display
23.8" HD rotating touchscreen
Resistance Settings
100 levels
Resistance type
Magnetic with Digital Adjustment
Measured Dimensions
59" L x 22" W x 59" H
Companion App
Peloton (subscription required)
Style
Spin
Pedal type
Road Clipless
The Peloton Bike+'s main drawback is cost—both the upfront price and the required All-Access membership. Without the membership, the bike loses much of its appeal. While Peloton excels at studio-style spin workouts, those seeking more variety might prefer the NordicTrack X24 at half the price. However, for dedicated studio cycling enthusiasts, our testers unanimously agreed the Bike+ is unmatched. Peloton also offers monthly rentals with membership included, or refurbished bikes at 60% off for a lower commitment. Tester Victoria McNamara has this to say, “The Peloton workout is incredibly engaging and makes me want to spend more time spinning away the miles on this bike.” She rotates the screen to do Yoga, Core, and Meditation classes and adds, “The Bike+ is so much more than a bike, but the app still feels expensive.” If you're shopping for a used Peloton bike, be aware that Peloton now charges a $95 “used equipment activation fee.”
The Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike offers budget-friendly spin workouts with a belt-driven 35-pound flywheel and continuous resistance adjustment. Its compact 40.5 x 20.5" footprint suits smaller spaces, though the friction-based resistance lacks the smoothness of magnetic systems like the Renpho AI Smart Bike. Sizing may be a challenge for taller riders—our 6-foot tester maxed out the seatpost height, and Yosuda doesn't publish height specifications. However, most testers praised the comfortable saddle, stable frame, and adequate handlebar adjustability.
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight Limit
270 lbs
Display
LCD display
Resistance Settings
Unlimited
Resistance type
Weighted flywheel and adjustable resistance pad
Measured Dimensions
40.5" L x 21.5" W x 45" H
Companion App
time, speed, distance, calories, odometer
Style
Upright
Pedal type
Cage / Flat
One person can easily assemble the Yosuda, and at 68.8 pounds, it's easy to relocate. Despite weighing half as much as some competitors, it handles intense spin sessions and standing efforts admirably. Cage pedals, a device shelf, and a water bottle cage add convenience. This unchanged design has proven reliable over years of use.
The Yosuda delivers excellent value but minimal tech—its 1.5" display shows one metric at a time with no connectivity or programmed workouts. You control your training entirely, though entertainment options are limited. For slightly more, the Schwinn IC4 offers magnetic resistance and a more informative LCD display, though it requires additional floor space.
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
The Schwinn AD6 offers the best airdyne experience we've tested—user-friendly, affordable, and effective. Its large fan creates resistance while cooling you down, requiring no electricity. Work your arms, legs, or both for a fluid, low-impact workout at your own pace. With its 20" fan, the AD6 suits leisurely workouts while streaming or listening to music rather than hardcore training. For a premium airdyne, the Schwinn AD7 offers superior refinement and smoothness. Serious athletes should consider the Assaultfitness Assaultbike Classic, which delivers intense resistance despite its industrial feel. The AD6 remains completely self-contained—no apps, internet, or power required.
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight Limit
300 lbs
Display
LCD display: 2.5" W x 6" H
Resistance Settings
Unlimited
Resistance type
Fan
Measured Dimensions
46" L x 25"W x 51.75" H
Companion App
time, speed, distance, calories, watts, pulse
Style
Airdyne
Pedal type
Toe Strap
Accessing the device holder and water bottle through moving handles proves awkward. However, tester Joshua Hutchens notes, “The AD6 is far more impressive than I imagined and a great way to get some cardio; it's comfortable and low impact.” It's ideal for seniors or anyone minimizing joint strain, with easy mounting and dismounting. The basic display tracks time, speed, distance, watts, and calories but lacks app connectivity. For interactive entertainment, consider the Echelon EX-5s, though at a higher price. The AD6's combination of quality, comfort, and value earns it Top Pick status.
Less expensive than screen-equipped connected bikes
Lots of included features
Bluetooth to pair with your device for use with JRNY or third-party apps
Comes with a 1-year JRNY membership
CONS
No display included
Resistance levels and power readings don't integrate perfectly with Peloton or Zwift
The Schwinn IC4 delivers quality spin workouts at an exceptional price. While functional offline, its real strength is tablet compatibility with JRNY, Peloton, and Zwift apps. You'll save $20 monthly using Peloton on your tablet versus their bike, and the IC4 costs $1500 less than the Peloton Bike+ while offering a similar exercise quality. Testers praised its stability up to 330 pounds and ranked it among the most comfortable bikes tested, despite unremarkable aesthetics and tech.
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight Limit
330 lbs
Display
LCD (measure)
Resistance Settings
100 levels
Resistance type
Weighted flywheel with adjustable magnetic resistance
Measured Dimensions
48.75" L x 21.25" W x 52" H
Companion App
distance, time, speed, calories, RPM, heart rate
Style
Spin
Pedal type
Cage / SPD
The IC4 features 100 levels of quiet magnetic resistance, ample adjustability, and a 190mm Q-factor. Bluetooth connects your device and included heart rate armband, while a USB port and shelf keep your device charged and visible. The JRNY app offers studio classes, virtual coaching, scenic rides, streaming entertainment, and off-bike workouts for total-body fitness. The 4-inch LCD console displays workout metrics but lacks visual appeal. Included accessories: 3-pound hand weights, hybrid pedals, and bottle holders. Note that Schwinn and Bowflex share ownership—the Bowflex C6 is identical to the IC4, so buy whichever offers the better price.
Power readings run approximately 10% high compared to our Garmin meter—fine for casual riders but potentially problematic for serious training. At 106 pounds with front transport wheels, the bike moves easily. Its 49-inch length makes it less imposing than Peloton or Echelon models. The IC4's performance earned it Top Pick status with a 270-pound weight capacity and high comfort ratings. Budget-conscious buyers seeking no-frills quality should consider the Yosuda.
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
The Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike combines comfort with serious workout capability. Its large, padded seat features a ventilated backrest and 13.2" of track adjustment for optimal positioning. Twenty-five levels of magnetic resistance deliver smooth, quiet operation. Tester Rachael Lamore noted, “Even during hard pushes, the drivetrain felt consistent and balanced.” Compared to the Marcy ME-709, testers particularly appreciated the 290's superior stability and solid construction.
The 290 has a substantial 1838 sq. inch footprint—400 sq. inches larger than the Marcy—and weighs 108 pounds. Front-weighted design and transport wheels make relocation manageable. We dubbed the 290 active furniture for combining comfort with serious cardio capability. Its display outperforms most competitors at this price, and JRNY app connectivity provides a significant advantage.
Some drawbacks: The narrow frame opening may challenge users with limited mobility, though mounting is otherwise straightforward. The 222mm Q-factor—the widest we've tested—could cause knee or hip discomfort for some. While the seat adjusts smoothly along its full range (unlike the Marcy's indexed settings), only fore-aft positioning is available; neither seat nor handlebars tilt. Despite these issues, the excellent exercise quality makes this a comfortable, worthwhile machine for most users.
The Marcy ME-709 embraces simplicity as its strength. This straightforward recumbent bike delivers comfortable, accessible exercise without unnecessary features. Its step-through frame, generously padded seat with backrest, and cushioned handlebars create an inviting workout experience for users of all body types. Eight inches of fore-aft adjustment can accommodate most riders while keeping the bike's footprint compact. At just 54.2 pounds, the bike is light enough to tilt and roll away on its transport wheels.
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight Limit
300 lbs
Display
LCD display: 3" W x 1.5" H
Resistance Settings
8 levels
Resistance type
Magnetic
Measured Dimensions
58"- 46" L x 24.75" W x 38.5" H
Companion App
time, speed, distance, calories, odometer, and scan
Style
Recumbent
Pedal type
Toe Strap
The Marcy offers half the resistance of the Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike, limiting its intensity potential. As tester Jeremy Benson observed, “This bike is great for passive exercise and in the light to moderate-intensity range, especially while reading or watching TV.” Its basic display cycles through workout metrics individually rather than showing multiple data fields simultaneously, making them easy to read. Despite its minimal features, testers praised Marcy's user-friendly design and consistent workouts. While it's not ideal for serious athletes, its combination of comfort, compact size, and affordability makes it perfect for anyone seeking low-intensity calorie burning. Put the Marcy in front of the TV and you can gain fitness while relaxing.
The Marcy Recumbent is one of the most comfortable exercise bikes we tested. Credit: Jeremy Benson
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
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 beware Peloton's used bike activation fee.
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 thoroughly explore features and workout programs, logging dozens of hours assessing comfort and functionality. You can read more about how we tested exercise bikes here.
We use five performance metrics to score:
Exercise Quality: including companion apps (weighted 35% of the overall score)
Comfort: seat, grips, and overall ergonomics (weighted 20%)
User Interface: screens, buttons, and apps (weighted 20%)
Features: additional accessories and unique abilities (weighted 15%)
Portability and Setup: both speed assembly and ease of moving around (weighted 10%)
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. There are no freebies, and we don't accept demo models for testing or equipment in exchange for a review.
Why Trust GearLab
Over the past eight years, we have bought and tested over 60 exercise bikes. We use these predetermined metrics to focus on product performance differences while testing and evaluating them. Spending many hours riding each bike allows us to get a feel for the range of exercise intensity and the overall quality of the experience. This includes the range of resistance and a deep dive into the bikes' respective programs and companion apps to examine the variety, quality, and options offered and how the apps differ. These days, the apps often dictate the experience many exercise bikes offer and can be as important a consideration as the bike itself. We weigh exercise quality at 35% of the total score because exercise is the point of an exercise bike. The other metrics are still important but less critical to overall performance and are therefore weighted less. The combined scores across our rating metrics help us determine our award winners.
Our budget exercise bike test was led by Joshua Hutchens. Hutchens is the Senior Bike Review Editor at GearLab and has worked with bicycles his entire life. Hutchens has found that taking a break from cardio isn't good for the head or legs, so he keeps fit on exercise bikes, indoor trainers, and treadmills when snow covers the trails. Joshua has worked extensively with bicycle fit and fitness and enjoys connected, on-location workouts like iFit. In addition to constantly testing new models, he routinely uses several different models of budget exercise bikes in his fitness quest. In the “On” season, he can be found on the hundreds of miles of single-track surrounding Lake Tahoe or teaching mountain bike classes through the local community college.
Also testing for this review is Jeremy Benson. Benson has decades of cycling experience and has spent many years contributing to GearLab cycling reviews. In addition to testing and reviewing mountain bikes, this Lake Tahoe resident races in the Pro class in endurance gravel and mountain bike races. During winter, Benson maintains his fitness while backcountry skiing and spending long hours spinning away the miles on indoor trainers and stationary bikes. He has ridden indoors for over two decades and has tried every type of trainer and exercise bike imaginable, from commercial spin and training bikes to at-home exercise models. In that time, he developed a keen sense of performance, qualities, and features that differentiate the styles and models on the market.
From unboxing to puring 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 exercise bikes pack increasingly sophisticated features—HD touchscreens, app integration, comprehensive data tracking—but these upgrades come at a premium. While not essential for everyone, such features can be crucial for maintaining motivation and consistency. If they keep you riding multiple times weekly, the investment in your health becomes invaluable. Still, budget-conscious buyers have excellent options. The Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike delivers quality workouts without premium frills, ideal for self-motivated riders. The Schwinn AD6 requires no subscription fees beyond its low initial cost. Though our testers note “It's not as entertaining as the more expensive competition,” it provides solid workouts with long-term savings. For minimal commitment, the DeskCycle Under Desk Exerciser offers simplicity, affordability, and convenient storage.
It doesn't get much simpler or compact than this. Credit: Jeremy Benson
Below is a comparison of app costs and total ownership expenses. Many apps offer tiered pricing—we recommend selecting the tier that unlocks your equipment's full capabilities. Budget memberships typically lack bike connectivity or native display support, requiring you to use your own device mounted over the screen. Without this integration, the bike and app can't communicate, meaning you'll simply follow along visually while missing out on data syncing and automatic resistance or incline adjustments.
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 Commercial S22i
iFit
$39
$15
$67
MYX II Plus
Openfit
$15
$15
$42
Echelon Connect EX-8s
EchelonFit
$40
$12
$82
BowFlex IC Bike SE
JRNY
$20
$12
$38
Exercise Quality
Does it wobble, creak, or flex under load? Is the level of resistance 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 automatically adjustable incline/decline, and the iFit app's trainer-led scenic rides and SmartAdjust resistance and incline help simulate the feel of real-world riding and provide a unique, immersive experience. The Auto-Follow feature that Peloton uses is similar to iFit in the sense that your resistance changes automatically, with Peloton having the upper hand in studio classes, but iFit excels in scenic, on-location rides. Being able to tilt and turn the screen adds a layer of versatility to these bikes, 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 it but it conveteys the basics well. Credit: Abriah Wofford
In the budget category, the Renpho AI Smart Bike sacrifices some stability and comfort but compensates with an extensive resistance range and FTMS Bluetooth connectivity for seamless app integration. It's ideal for moderate exercisers who appreciate its minimalist 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, there are some worthy competitors, but none with 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 distinguishes JRNY is its customization—pair virtual coach workouts with your preferred music genre or scenic route, or stream Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ (subscriptions required) directly through the screen. The bike's compatibility with Peloton and Zwift via your own device ensures you're not 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, sharing 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
creenless 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 Renpho AI Bike includes the free AI Gym app and supports multiple third-party apps via Bluetooth FTMS, enabling bidirectional communication that automatically adjusts resistance to match virtual classes or terrain.
The low-impact, choose-your-own-intensity AD6 quickly became a tester favorite. Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Comfort
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 spanning different durations and intensity levels 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 Renpho, offer a wide range of adjustability in the saddle, 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
User Interface
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 fancy touchscreens to connect to companion apps and 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, to 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 optimize its position for viewing from any angle. The Bike+ features a knob for manual resistance control and an optional Auto-Follow mode that adjusts resistance automatically, allowing you to focus even 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, while the Renpho AI Smart Bike employs a dial—both offer Bluetooth pairing to transform your device into a display when using 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
Features
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. While a great workout is possible on a no-frills machine, many models now come with all the extras you could dream up. The best features are those that 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 be for everyone, but seasoned cyclists will appreciate the extra dose of realism in the ride quality. The bike also includes dumbbells, fans, a USB outlet, and areas for water bottles.
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 that can be positioned in any direction for viewing on and off-bike workouts, excellent speakers, and the new Auto-Follow feature that makes automatic resistance changes 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 S22i and X24 were the most time-consuming to assemble and both arrived with non-working screens. Credit: Jeremy Benson
Setup and Portability
Most exercise bikes, except those that include professional assembly, are delivered in a large box and require some assembly to get them ready for use. We assembled each bike using the included instructions and tools to evaluate the ease of setup. We took note of the relative difficulty and time it took to complete the process. In terms of portability, we considered the weight of each model, how easy it is to move around, and measured the footprint and overall dimensions to see how much space they occupy. 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 must clear a space, and the delivery team will assemble the bike. The bike has a relatively average footprint compared to other high-end models, but its large touchscreens make it somewhat tall and stand out in any room. At 140+ pounds each, these bikes are best left in a dedicated workout space, although they are fairly easy to move around on firm, flat surfaces thanks to their transport wheels.
Some assembly required. Credit: Jeremy Benson
The Renpho AI Smart Bike, Schwinn Upright 130, and Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike performed well in this metric for their quick, easy assembly and smaller dimensions. Unlike the heavier, higher-end bikes with more complicated assemblies, these models required fewer steps and time to complete the setup. 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. You'll want to set aside 1-2 hours and enlist another person's help for several steps, particularly when connecting the wires and attaching the consoles on the Bowflex and Echelon bikes. Because it lacks a large screen, the AD6 is lighter and has a smaller footprint, while the EX-5s is 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 are also the types that generally come with apps and classes. Generally, the highest-rated exercise bikes are spin bikes. Note that with spin bikes, your legs are always moving; there is no coasting. 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 do not have built-in large screens for classes but instead 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 you need to be more careful when getting on and off them, and standing up during a workout is not recommended.
Recumbent Bikes: These bikes put you in a leaned-back sitting position that is generally more comfortable and easier on your back. Recumbent bikes are used 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 to get a light workout and 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 and specific workout popular with CrossFit and more intense exercise 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 don't) is a major factor influencing not only the upfront cost of an exercise bike but also 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 help motivate some people or entertain others, but they'll 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 allows you to utilize the equipment you may already have without having to fit a new bike or purchase 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 to bike trainers is that you'll need to supply your own road bike and it will endure some mechanical wear. Depending on how dedicated you make your road bike to the trainer, there may be setup time involved every time you want to do a workout. 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
Conclusion
A quality exercise bike can be a great way to train fitness or meet new goals without ever leaving home. Are you starting your fitness journey or looking for more intense training? Either way, we have a recommendation for you. We've tested a variety of exercise equipment so you can build out your home gym. See our best portable home gym review for more advice on building out your home workout space.
