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We put the 15 best exercise bikes through an epic shootout test: Peloton, NordicTrack, Bowflex, Schwinn, Renpho, Echelon, Yosuda, and more.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
By Joshua Hutchens ⋅ Senior Review Editor ⋅ Updated September 9, 2025
Exercise bikes offer a convenient, low-impact way to get some cardio, burn calories, and strengthen your lower body without putting undue stress on your joints, or leaving the house. A home exercise bike can allow you to hop on and spin at your leisure, whether following a class, reading a book, or watching TV.
We put the top 15 stationary bikes available today through rigorous testing to identify their key strengths and differences. We purchased companion app memberships, attended the classes and programs, and evaluated 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.
Nordic Track is known for its high-quality, innovative exercise equipment, and the X24is the latest and arguably coolest new exercise bike on the market. Using a SmartAdjust tilt feature, the bike can simulate riding in the mountains. Not only does your resistance increase, but the entire bike tilts to mimic the geometry of a real mountain ascent. This shift changes the muscles that you use to power the weighted flywheel and provides one of the most realistic ride experiences we've tested. Pushing faster into the Silent Magnetic Resistance, the fan speed even increases to mimic your headwind.
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
While the bike's automatic features are incredibly impressive, with ample adjustability, an ergonomic saddle, and a tilting screen, the iFit software is the star of the show. Using a 24" HD Touchscreen, the world of iFit is the most immersive and enjoyable fitness experience we've come across. Using a proprietary form of Bluetooth FTMS, the bike automatically adjusts to match the resistance, incline, and headwind of your virtual rides.
Your portal to the iFit experience is a crisp, clear 24" HD Touchscreen. iFit offers several types of fitness classes from over 180 trainers. Their studio classes are fairly typical, but their Follow Trainer workouts are outstanding. Hundreds of on-location cycling classes around the world are led by engaging trainers through awe-inspiring environments. SmartAdjustallows you to focus on your breathing and form while the bike and trainer handle the details. One of our testers had this to say, “The production quality, automatic adjustments, and large screen create an immersive experience unlike any other.”
If you have the space, the large screen can swivel for off-bike workouts. The footprint of 59.5 x 22.2" makes it larger than most, but its sturdy, wise frame has a weight capacity of 350 pounds. The bike weighs almost 200 pounds, and while it has transport wheels, it lacks a handle to lift the rear. The first bike we received had a defective screen, just like the last NordicTrack bike we tested; obtaining a replacement through tech support was challenging and time-consuming. “While the customer service left a bad taste in my mouth, the working bike is spectacular,” says tester Joshua Hutchens.
Console can stream entertainment and JRNY App (subscriptions required)
Feature loaded
Works with 3rd party apps like Zwift and Peloton
CONS
JRNY app has limited studio classes compared to some others
Slightly larger footprint than other models
The touchscreen has limited mobility
Lean in with the Bowflex VeloCore 16 that tilts into corners or allows you to rock the bike back and forth while out of the saddle. The bike gives you a more well-rounded, full-body experience than any of the other spin bikes and gives us an immersive feel. You can lock the lean out for a standard spin experience , or go all in with the JRNY app's lean classes. Tester Jeremy Benson felt, “It works core muscles in a way that makes you feel like you've been on a real bike; using your upper body and lower back to counter your quad power is awesome.” A 16" touchscreen gives you access to JRNY, which offers a wide range of studio classes, virtual coach, and Explore the World scenic rides. "The scenic rides aren't quite as good as the iFit-linked bikes like the NordicTrack X24, but they're a nice reprieve from studio classes." If classes aren't your thing, you can stream entertainment from Netflix, Hulu, and HBO Max (subscriptions required). While JRNY doesn't offer the sheer number of classes that Peloton or iFit do, it does offer a variety of non-bike workouts. The app costs about half as much as Peloton or Echelon. For those who follow Peloton or Zwift, the bike will share or export workout data to your device, but not through the bike's display.
SPECIFICATIONS
Weight Limit
325 lbs
Display
16" HD tilting touchscreen
Resistance Settings
100 levels
Resistance type
Magnetic
Measured Dimensions
59.8" L x 25.5" W x 52.5" H
Companion App
JRNY (also works with Peloton and Zwift) (subscriptions required)
Style
Spin
Pedal type
Cage / SPD
We liked the VeloCore's 16-inch display, but the 22" model (+$400) is better and closer to the 23.8" screen on the Peloton Bike+. Unfortunately, the screen doesn't swivel like the NordicTrack X24 for off-the-bike viewing. Due to the bike's 25.5" width and lean feature, it has a wider footprint than other bikes we tested and needs additional space. At 158.3 pounds, the bike is relatively heavy, but that mass gives it a solid and stable feel, even when leaning over several degrees. Our team remarked that they remained comfortable on the VeloCore longer than on other spin bikes; leaning and streaming had much to do with that. If you'd rather get lean than lean to the side, check out the Peloton Bike+ that occupies 200+ fewer square inches. The Bowflex was a bit more complex to assemble but still took our tester less than an hour. If you're a dedicated road cyclist, the wider-than-normal Q-factor of 203mm, may cause discomfort.
Taking the VeloCore from unpacking to deep testing. Assembly was involved, but when it was all put together, the VeloCore impressed us. The lean at first seemed like a gimmick, but over time, we came to appreciate the variation.
Peloton is just about synonymous with spin workouts and the Peloton Bike+ is their flagship model. While structurally similar to the original Bike, the Bike+ brings some fresh updates, including a 23.8-inch swiveling HD touchscreen, better speakers, and Auto-Follow automatic resistance adjustments. While we love the new features, the price increase seems disproportionate. While costly, the price includes free delivery and professional assembly. Bike+ features a modern, streamlined design, and has 100 levels of nearly silent magnetic resistance, providing sufficient range for beginners to pros. A moderate 170mm q-factor gives the Bike+ a more authentic “bike feel”, and none of the bike's ergonomics were disappointing. The new HD screen is 2.3" bigger than the standard Peloton bike and integrates seamlessly with the Peloton app. “No one else is making an exercise bike that integrates this well with their fitness app,” says tester Joshua Hutchens. With live classes daily, thousands of on-demand studio classes of all types, lengths, and music genres, and some highly engaged instruction, our testers were impressed with the variety. After a few months on the bike, it was easy to see why Peloton and its instructors have such a devoted following and a large user community. The new Auto-Follow resistance option automatically adjusts your resistance based on the instructor's prompts, allowing you to pedal without needing to make adjustments to the resistance knob. Since the screen swivels for viewing off the bike, you can use it for a broad range of non-cycling workouts, a feature we wished for on the Bowflex VeloCore 16.
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 only real downside to Peloton bikes is their high cost. The Peloton Bike+ is pricey, and the ongoing Peloton All-Access membership adds a substantial additional cost. While the bike is perfectly functional without the membership, it really loses its appeal. Most Peloton workouts are studio-spin-style; if you're seeking more variety, the Bowflex VeloCore and NordicTrack X24 offer similar performance for about half the cost, and still have a compelling diversity of classes. That said, if the at-home studio cycling experience is what you're after, it doesn't get any better than the Peloton Bike+; our testers all agreed that if they could have just one spin bike for the next several years, this is it. If you'd like to try one with less commitment, Peloton offers monthly rentals of their bikes, which include a membership and refurbished bikes for approximately 60% of the original cost.
Long-Term Thoughts: After testing the Bike+, we decided to keep it for long-term testing and compare it to future exercise bikes. Tester Victoria McNamara tells us, “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.” Our test bike has held up quite well. We check its bolts monthly and wipe away the sweat, but that's about it. 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 is an upright spin-style, stationary bike with a competitive price. The bike features a belt-driven 35-pound flywheel and an infinite resistance adjustment range. The compact design at 40.5 x 20.5", allows it to fit in a smaller area than most spin bikes. This bike uses friction to create resistance, so it doesn't have the smooth, magnetic feel of bikes like the Renpho AI Smart Bike. Our testers noted that this bike feels smaller than others; while Yoduda doesn't specify a height range, our 6-foot tester used the highest setting on the seatpost. The rest of our testers found the bike to be comfortable and stable, thanks to a quality saddle and a fair range of handlebar height adjustment options.
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
Assemblign the Yosuda isn't rocket science and can easily be accomplished by one person. At 68.8 pounds with front mounted transport wheelsm the bike is easy to move. Even at half the weigh tof someof its competitors, the bike felt sturdy enough for pedal-mashing spin classes and out-of-the-saddle efforts. The Yosuda has cage pedals, a device shelf, and a water bottle cage that make your workouts a bit more comfortable. While the bike has been around and unchanged for many years, it's stood the test of time and still gets our recommendation.
While the Yosuda is an excellent spin bike for the money, it's not a high-tech device. The tiny 1.5" display only shows one data field at a time, and no pre-programmed workouts or connectivity features are available. As a result, you have complete control over your training, but not much in terms of motivational entertainment. Nonetheless, this is still a reasonable-quality, affordable option for anyone seeking a bike to get their spin on. For a few extra dollars, the Schwinn IC4 gives you smoother exercise quality with magnetic resistance but occupies a bit more floor space. The IC4 has a user-friendly interface with a bit more data on its LCD screen.
Airdynes provide a unique full-body workout experience, and the Schwinn AD6 is the most compelling of all models we've tested. It's user-friendly, relatively inexpensive, and incredibly effective at comfortably burning off calories. Based around a large fan that creates resistance while it cools you off, this cardio machine doesn't even need to be plugged in. You can use just your arms, just your legs, or a combination of both to get a fluid, low-impact workout at your speed.
Using a 20" fan, this isn't the model for hardcore fitness, but an almost leisurely way to get fit while watching a show or listening to music. If you want the deluxe airdyne experience, the Schwinn AD7 is more refined and incredibly smooth. If it's hardcore training that you're after, the Assaultfitness Assaultbike Classic is the answer, but it's a little rough around the edges and feels more industrial. The amount of resistance from the fan blew away our fittest testers. No apps, no internet, no electrical connection, this bike is self-contained.
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
While the bike has a spot for a device, reaching through the moving handles is tricky. Testers also noted that grabbing a water bottle holder is similarly “not ideal.” Tester Joshua Hutchens had this to say, “The AD6 is far more impressive than I imagined and a great way to get some cardio; it's comfortable and low impact.” This is an ideal exercise machine for seniors or those wanting to minimize strain; it's incredibly easy to mount and dismount. The simple interface displays your elapsed time, speed, distance, watts, and burned calories, but it lacks the interactivity found on bikes with connectivity. Stepping up to a bike with a display and app, like the Echelon EX-5s, can provide motivation and entertainment while you ride, but you'll pay for it. Considering the exercise quality, comfort, and price of the AD6, it's easy to see why we made it a Top Pick.
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 offers a quality spin bike experience at a very reasonable price. The IC4 can be used without an internet connection, but its real value lies in its compatibility with your own tablet, allowing you to use it with JRNY or several third-party apps, such as Peloton and Zwift (subscriptions required). Using the Peloton app on their bike costs $44 per month, and using it on your own tablet costs only $24 per month. While the Peloton Bike+ is great, the IC4 costs $1500 less and provides arguably better exercise quality. Our testers loved how stable the Schwinn felt up to its 330-pound weight limit. While the bike doesn't wow with its appearance or tech, testers ranked it one of the most comfortable exercise bikes we've tested.
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 has 100 levels of quiet magnetic resistance, ample adjustability, and a Q-factor of 190mm. The bike uses Bluetooth to connect to your device and an included heart rate armband. Schwinn includes a USB port and a device shelf to keep your device charged and in view while spinning out the miles. The JRNY app offers a variety of workouts, with studio classes, a virtual coach, Explore the World scenic rides, and the ability to stream entertainment from your favorite subscription services (like Netflix, Hulu, etc.). In addition to cycling workouts, JRNY has a full range of off-the-bike classes to help you achieve total body fitness. The IC4's color console provides a variety of metrics for your current workout, but the 4-inch LCD isn't much to look at. Like the Bowflex IC Bike Se, the IC4 includes 3-pound hand weights, dual-function hybrid pedals, and bottle holders. Keen-eyed readers will notice the similarity in model nomenclature; that's because Schwinn and Bowflex are essentially the same company. If you find the Bowflex C6 for a better price than the IC4, snap it up as it's the same bike.
When I tested the power on the IC4, the display showed a power reading 10% higher than our Garmin power meter pedals, indicating that the power output reading was slightly high. While this isn't an issue for casual riders, using the bike for hardcore training could be problematic. With forward mounted transport wheels, I found the IC4 fairly easy to move despite its 106 pound weight. At just under 49 inches, you won't likely be hiding it in a closet, but it has a far less imposing presence than the Peloton or Echelon bikes. The IC4 excelled in our testing and pleased our testers enough to award it the Top Pick, but if you are on a tight budget and want good exercise quality with no frills, check out the Yosuda. It has a maximum rider weight of 270 pounds and is ranked high on our comfort scale. The IC4 is quite simple.
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.
The Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike is a solid-feeling piece of exercise equipment that allows the user to sit back in a relaxed position, but still put in a serious effort. The seat is large and padded with a ventilated backrest and 13.2" of adjustability on its inclined track. The bike has 25 levels of magnetic resistance, giving it solid resistnace with minimal noise. “Even during hard pushes, the drivetrain felt consistent and balanced,” remarked tester Rachael Lamore. What testers liked most about the 290 as opposed to the Marcy ME-709 was how solid and stable the machine felt.
The 290 is a big bike with a substantial footprint, occupying 1838 sq. inches, 400 sq. inches larger than the Marcy. The Schwinn is also fairly heavy at 108 pounds; fortunately, most of that weight is in the front of the machine, and transport wheels make moving it around possible.
We nicknamed the 290 active furniture for its inviting seat and capacity to dish out the cardio. The display is more engaging than most at this price point, but the ability to connect to fitness apps like JRNY scores this machine extra points and sets it apart from bikes that lack connectivity.
Do we have some gripes? Of course: The frame's shape leaves a narrow space for your foot to pass through, and while it was easy enough to sit down and swing a leg over, this machine may not be ideal for users with impaired mobility. The width between pedals, known as the Q-factor is a whopping 222mm, wider than anything else we've tested and may cause knee or hip discomfort for some riders. Testers appreciated that the seat could be adjusted anywhere within its range, not just in indexed settings like the Marcy, but the fore and aft positions are the only fit adjustments available on this machine, the seat and handlebars do not tilt. These gripes aside, we were thrilled with the exercise quality and feel like this machine will be a comfortable and useful piece of equipment for many.
The Marcy ME-709 isn't fancy, and that's part of its appeal. This simple, effective stationary recumbent provides no frills, easy access, and comfortable exercise. An easy step-through design, a large padded seat with backrest, and a padded handlebar give riders little reason not to sit down and spin. Eight inches of fore-aft adjustment accommodate most riders, while minimizing the bike's storage footprint. The bike has transport wheels, but we found it easier to lift than roll, as it's only 54.2 pounds.
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
With only half as much resistance as the Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike, the Marcy isn't ideal for hard efforts. “This bike is great for passive exercise and in the light to moderate-intensity range, especially while reading or watching TV,” remarked tester Jeremy Benson. The rudimentary display shows pertinent workout information one field at a time, rather than multiple data fields like the Schwinn 290.
While not feature-packed, testers loved its ease of use and remarked that its workout quality always feels consistent. This isn't the machine for serious fitness, but considering its comfort, size, and price, it's an excellent option for those wanting a gentle way to spin off some calories.
Works with Zwift and Peloton apps, USB charging port, device shelf, 2 water bottle holders, 3 lb weights, weight cradles, Bluetooth Heart rate armband, dual sided pedals with cleats
Transport wheels, 2 bottle holders, dual-sided pedals, front and rear power ports, handweight cradles, USB port
Weighted pedals with straps, transport wheels, water bottle holder, device shelf, USB-A charging
Transport wheels, works with popular training apps, device holder, adjustable handlebar height, USB charging port
Pedals with safety straps, transport wheels, water bottle holder, device holder
Works with JRNY, Zwift, and Peloton, bottle cage, dual-sided pedals, adjustable handlebars, transport wheels, tablet shelf
Works with Zwift and Explore the World, bottle cage, pedals with adjustable straps, heart rate sensors, adjustable handlebars, transport wheels, device shelf
Transport wheels, 2 bottle holders, dual-sided pedals, handweight cradles, USB A+C ports
Bottle cage, device shelf, cage pedals, flywheel brake, transport wheels
Transport wheels, water bottle and cage
Recumbent handlebar, transport wheels, adjustable seat, digital display, pedals with straps
Pedals with straps, digital display
Warranty
Frame: 10 years, Parts: 2 years, Labor: 1 year
Frame and Parts: 2 years, Electronics: 1 year, Labor: 1 year
1-year limited warranty
Frame: 10 years, Parts: 3 years, Labor: 1 year
1-year limited warranty
Frame: 10 years, Parts: 2 years, Electronics: 1 year Labor: 90 days
1 year
Frame: 10 years, Parts: 2 years, Electronics: 1 year
Frame: 10 years, Parts: 2 years, Electronics: 1 year
Frame: 10 years, Parts: 2 years, Electronics: 1 year
1-year limited warranty
1 year parts replacement
Frame: 5 years, 2 years on non-wear parts
Frame: 2 years
1 year
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 and there are deals to be had but beware of Peloton's used bike activation fee.
How We Tested
We've been tracking and tersting exercise bikes for years and each season we add more to our testing group. Our varied selection includes budget-friendly spin bikes to the most advanced connected, screen-equipped bikes on the market. After purchasing each model, we assemble them while taking notes and recording the process. There are a few exception where the purchased bike included assembly and we note that in our review. We then spent months using each model, often back to back for direct comparison. We explored and measured the full range of resistance, from easy spins to rigorous interval workouts. To assess each bike's exercise quality, we had several testers run through a series of classes and make adjustments to the bikes. We bought all of the app memberships, explored their features, and joined classes and workout programs. Our testers assessed the comfort and features of each model while riding dozens of hours in different programs. 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 put the same passion into testing exercise bikes as we do for many other fitness products. 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.
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?
While the list of features in modern exercise bikes continues to grow, so does the price. You might not need an HD touchscreen, app integration, and the mountain of data some of the new bikes provide, but for some of us, these features are the key to staying engaged and motivated to use the bike. If you're on the bike multiple times a week and enjoying the experience of getting fit and healthy, it's hard to put a price tag on that. But can you do it for less? When we look at the price-to-performance ratio, a few models stand out as particularly good values. The Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike offers a great workout without the flashy features of higher-end models. If you have more motivation than cash, it's a great choice. The Schwinn AD6 has a low cost of entry but also no subscription fees. Our testers say, “It's not as entertaining as the more expensive competition,” but everyone agrees that it provides a solid workout, saving you money over the long haul. If you want to start small, consider the DeskCycle Under Desk Exerciser, which is simple, affordable, and easy to store.
It doesn't get much simpler or compact than this.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Here is a comparative look at the cost of the apps and the price of ownership. Several of these apps have tiers of pricing, and we recommend the tier that gives you full functionality of your equipment. Lower-cost memberships often do not connect to the bike or are not available on the bike's display, meaning you have to supply your own device and place it over the top of the screen. In those cases, the machine doesn't communicate with the app, so you're essentially just watching and following along without having the bike's data show up in the app or the incline or speed prompts being relayed to the bike.
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.
Among the higher-end models like the Peloton Bike+, Bowflex, NordicTrack X24, and Schwinn IC4, the bikes are structurally similar and offer a similar level of stability. The frames are well-built and don't falter in all-out sprints or hard climbs. These bikes offer a wide range of fit adjustments for comfort and performance, but some use indexed adjustments that might force you to choose between a saddle height that is a little too low or a little too high. These all use magnetic resistance that is highly adjustable, and despite having different gradations of adjustability (100, 32, 24), the highs and lows are remarkably similar.
The X24 paired with iFit provides a uniquely immersive experience that is hard to beat.
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. Bowflex adds something unique with the lean feature on the VeloCore. The bike rides in a traditional stationary position or can unlock to enter lean mode, where you can lean the bike side to side on a horizontal axis while working your core to the JRNY app. Being able to push the bike side to side gives you the sensation of climbing on a road bike and lets you engage more muscle groups than on a traditional spin bike.
The VeloCore essentially floats on a high pivot, allowing the bike to sway back and forth, emulating natural climbing on a road bike.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
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 Renpho is simple but effective.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Amongst the less expensive bikes, the Renpho AI Smart Bike doesn't offer the same stability and comfort but has a wide range of resistance and FTMS Bluetooth connectivity, which gives you more integration between the bike and your chosen app. It would be a great bike for someone who isn't pushing the limits of athleticism and values the clean aesthetic it provides. The Yosuda has almost none of the fancy features that stand out on other models, but provides an excellent workout experience that leaves the entertainment to you. You can save enough to pay for Netflix or some other form of entertainment to enjoy while you ride.
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
What was once a simple stationary bike is now a computer full of sensors and an enormous internet-enabled screen. Maybe you don't need all of the fancy connectivity and apps, but for many users, they provide entertainment, engagement, and even community. Some of our testers were skeptical of the connected fitness world, but most of us found the apps added an incentive to get on the bike. We'd enjoy an instructor and want to follow their classes, enjoy a location and want to see more of the area, or enjoy a particular fitness program and it would provide the motivvartion to keep going. Even the cheapest bike is a waste of money if you're not using it. Conversely, it's hard to put a price on a captivating fitness routing that you're excited to experience each day.
The Peloton app is arguably the most important aspect of the Peloton Bike+. If you like the studio-style workouts they offer, it is the best out there.
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, can not be used at all without wifi and an active membership. While Peloton has the biggest name in home spin classes, there are some worthy competitors, but none quite as engaging.
The JRNY app is great because it provides lots of options. Studio classes, Explore the World scenic rides, virtual coach programs, the ability to stream entertainment, plus the bike is compatible with Peloton and Zwift.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
The Bowflex VeloCore uses JRNY, a less expensive app that provides the user with many options. JRNY has the typical studio classes (though significantly fewer than Peloton, for example), Explore the World scenic rides, and many “virtual coach” programs. One unique aspect of the JRNY app is that you can select the music genre or scenic ride to go with the virtual coach workout, and you can even stream entertainment on Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+ (subscriptions required) through the screen. This bike also works with Peloton and Zwift through your device, providing flexibility that doesn't constrain you to one 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 iFit app, which can be found on the NordicTrack X24, is wildly immersive. Riding in an iFit class, you can let the program control your resistance, incline, and even your headwind. You follow inspiring instructors in beautiful locations, often learning about the history, flora, and fauna of an area. The production quality is stunning, and the rides are all over the world.
You get terrain changes, visual appeal, instruction from a fitness professional and loads of data to help you enjoy the process.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Many bikes without screens can still connect to an app on your tablet or Smart TV. The Schwinn IC4 and Yosuda are both inexpensive bikes that let you find the entertainment that works for you. The Renpho AI Bike has access to a free AI Gym app, which lets it connect with a number of third-party apps. The Renpho uses Bluetooth FTMS to provide two-way communication between the app and the bike. This lets the bike auto-adjust to match the class or terrain.
The low-impact, choose-your-own-intensity AD6 quickly became a tester favorite.
Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Comfort
We examine models' fit range and comfort features, along with key touchpoints like the seat and handlebars. All the bikes we tested have fit adjustments to suit a range of rider heights. We measured the vertical and horizontal seat and handlebar adjustability range, as those numbers will determine a comfortable fit for riders of different shapes and sizes. During testing, we also considered the comfort of each bike's seat and handlebars on multiple rides of various lengths and intensities.
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 the Schwinn IC4 offer vertically and horizontally handlebar adjustments, which can help relieve pressure on your upper body. Many of these models have performance-oriented saddles that might make you consider wearing padded whorts. The Bowflex VeloCore, NordicTrack X24, and Peloton Bike+ have a wide array of adjustments, but the X24 stands out for not having detents that you need to choose from. Most bikes offer indexed adjustability, allowing you to choose between notches of adjustment, which might not be ideal for everyone. I found the Echelon bikes offered a seat height just above or below my ideal spot, which made it hard for me to get comfortable. Most saddles can be adjusted up/down as well as fore/aft, allowing you to change the effective seat tube angle of the bike, target different muscle groups, and adjust your reach.
While a bit more basic, the Yosuda still has a large range of fit adjustments and a fairly comfortable handlebar.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
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.
The MYX II Plus has a great touchscreen that swivels and tilts.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Similar to the Peloton, the NordicTrack X24 has a 24-inch HD touchscreen with vibrant color and great resolution, and it also swivels and tilts for optimal viewing both on and off the bike. The NordicTrack X24 has a 24-inch HD touchscreen with high resolution that integrates well with the iFit app. This screen also swivels, but its tilt range limits its position for off-bike floor workouts. Unlike the other high-end models, the X24 doesn't use a knob to control resistance; instead, there are buttons on the handlebars to adjust incline and resistance, or the bike will do it for you through its SmartAdjust features.
While it doesn't swivel, the screen on the Echelon EX-5s can flip all the way over for viewing from the front of the bike.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Two screen-equipped models have quality touchscreens, though they can't rotate to optimize the viewing angle for workouts off the bike. The Echelon EX-5s has a knob to control resistance and a 22-inch screen that tilts and flips over. This allows you to view workouts from in front of the bike but not from the sides. Similarly, the Bowflex VeloCore has a slightly smaller 16-inch screen, although it has a more limited range of tilt adjustment that works only to find the perfect angle for viewing while you ride.
The Schwinn IC4 has a digital display, and when connected to a device there is a shelf to hold it in view.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Of the models without screens, the Schwinn IC4 has a resistance adjustment knob, a small digital display that shows many metrics while you ride, and a device holder if you choose to connect the bike to an app via Bluetooth. The Schwinn 130 Upright and the Renpho AI Smart Bike have buttons and a dial to control resistance, respectively, along with Bluetooth capabilities to pair with your device to be used as a display when using a compatible app.
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 Bowflex VeloCore and NordicTrack X24 both offer something a little extra with their respective lean and incline features. These might not be for everyone, but seasoned cyclists will appreciate the extra dose of realism in the ride quality. These bikes also include dumbbells, fans, USB outlets, and areas for water bottles.
The swiveling screen is a great feature of the Peloton Bike+ that makes it easy to follow along with the app's off-bike workouts from any angle.
Credit: Laura Casner
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 regarding setup is the Peloton Bike+ because it 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 their large touchscreens make them 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.
The Yosuda required some assembly, but it was much quicker and easier than the screen-equipped models.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
The Renpho AI Smart Bike, Schwinn Upright 130, and Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike scored well in this metric for their quick and easy assembly process 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, Bowflex VeloCore, 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 VeloCore and EX-5s are a fair amount 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
How to Choose the Best Exercise Bike for You
Below are the key questions to ask before buying an exercise bike.
What Style: Spin, Upright, Recumbent, or Under Desk?
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 significant 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.
