Whether you are out for a splurge or you are on a tight budget, you should go for a recumbent bike that is worth your money. Here is a look at the recumbent bikes that have made the cut.
When I was looking for a recumbent bike to workout with at home, I got easily overwhelmed because of the countless products that are out there. I knew the price tag I was looking for but I was still not sure which one to settle for. This is why I decided to come up with this guide to help someone like me.
If you are looking for a quality recumbent bike that is great value for the money then look no further. Here are 7 recumbent bikes that I have tested and hand-picked as top contenders for the best. Also, I have included the factors you should consider when buying a recumbent bike so that you find the perfect fit.
As my mother always says, whether you are buying something for $1 or $100 you need to be sure you are getting your money’s worth.
7 Best Recumbent Bikes for the Money- A comparison table
Model |
Weight Capacity |
Resistance Levels |
Action |
Exerpeutic 900XL |
300lbs |
8 |
|
Teeter Freestep (Recumbent Trainer Elliptical) |
350lbs |
8 |
|
Schwinn 270 |
300lbs |
25 |
|
Marcy Magnetic NS-716R |
300lbs |
8 |
|
ProForm 235 CSX |
275lbs |
18 |
|
Stamina with Upper Exerciser |
350lbs |
8 |
|
Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RB4708 |
350lbs |
8 |
Exerpeutic 900XL- Has a good weight capacity and comes with pulse sensors
[amazon box=”B07NDJFB2D” template=”horizontal” ]This recumbent bike is easy on your back and joints while also giving you an effective workout.
Specs
- 8-level magnetic resistance system
- LCD display
- Comes with a 1-year warranty
- Maximum weight capacity is 300lbs
- Can be adjusted to fit users who are 5’3â€-6’6â€
Exerpeutic 900XL has an 8-level magnetic resistance system. This means that you can get a challenging cardio workout and a low-intense one all with one bike. Using this tension control system, you can customize your bike to the kind of ride you want to experience.
This recumbent bike also helps you keep track of your progress with a large LCD display. This monitor helps you track your workouts in terms of how many calories you are hitting as well as the time and speed you are going at. To add, for a couple extra bucks you can get the Exerpeutic 900XL model that comes with Bluetooth connectivity.
Exerpeutic 900XL also makes the cut because of its versatility. It can easily be adjusted to fit users who are 5’3â€-6’6â€. The seat and backrest are also large enough to be comfortable for users who are just about any size.
Pros
- Works quietly
- Easily movable (transportation wheels)
- Comes with hand pulse sensors that help keep you on track
- Good fit for all kinds of users
Cons
- Other Exerpeutic bikes offer a longer warranty
Verdict
Exerpeutic 900XL is an all-round good recumbent bike. One of its only imperfections is that it does not come with a phone/tablet holder. This might be a dealbreaker if you would want to have your phone with you as you exercise.
View price on Amazon
Teeter FreeStep- Versatile and high-end bike making it great value for money
[amazon box=”B07B6GLTDQ” template=”horizontal” ]Teeter FreeStep is a recumbent bike that doubles up as a cross trainer and elliptical as well. It is one of the pricier bikes in this list but it is well worth the buy.
Specs
- Easy-to-read digital console
- Patent stride technology
- Seat has 3 reclining settings
- Maximum user capacity is 300lbs
- Comes with 1 year warranty on frame and 90 days on parts
Like all other recumbent bikes, Teeter FreeStep offers a low-impact exercise that is ideal for all kinds of people. It is especially comfortable enough if you have sensitive joints or you are recovering from an injury/surgery.
Teeter FreeStep also offers a smooth and quiet ride while at it. The magnetic resistance system can be easily adjusted depending on your needs but it still works in near silence.
To add, this bike has an adjustable seat height, handles and seat back. Depending on your height, you can change the settings so that you are at your most comfortable position.
For example, the reclining seat has 3 settings you can choose from. You need to go for a setting that has the best posture, comfort and muscle engagement.
Pros
- Comes with a water bottle holder
- Easy to set up
- Solid and sturdy build
- Suitable for all kinds of people from the elderly to young atheletes
Cons
- Some parts might require over-tightening to make sure they do not go loose
- Does not come with a heart rate sensor
Verdict
For the Teeter FreeStep, its price tag is reasonable considering the features you get with this bike. It is not just a simple recumbent bike. It offers a full-body workout while still being easy enough on your back and joints.
Schwinn 270- Comes with all the fancy tech-features making it great value for money
[amazon box=”B01MS7EWR9″ template=”horizontal” ]With Bluetooth connectivity and Schwinn Trainer app for fitness monitoring, Schwinn 270 is the bike for you if you are tech-savvy.
Specs
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Comes loaded with 29 workout programs
- 25 level magentic resistance system
- 3-speed adjustable fan
- Dual LCD displays
Schwinn 270 has 25 levels of resistance that you can flick through. With this recumbent bike, you can get the ride intensity that is comfortable for you. It also has 29 workout programs that are bound to keep you glued on your bike.
As for its design, this recumbent bike is nothing short of comfortable. The seat (chair-like) is well padded and offers good support for your bike. Its backrest is also well ventilated so that you are not left feeling sweaty after a long riding session.
To add, Schwinn 270 works with Bluetooth and can be synced with the Schwinn Trainer app and RideSocial app. This means that you can go on virtual rides with your friends in real time. You can also easily track your progress towards your fitness goals.
Do keep in mind that this bike has to be plugged into a power outlet.
Pros
- Offers a wide range of resistance settings
- Flywheel offers smooth, easy workouts
- Can load up to 4 user profiles on it
- Has a good sound system to keep you jamming to your music as you exercise
Cons
- Flywheel is rather light (17lbs)
- A tad uncomfortable for really tall users
Verdict
Even if this bike is out of your budget, it is worth considering. It comes with Bluetooth connectivity, 29 workouts and 25 levels of resistance. These are all premium quality features.
Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Bike- Easily adjustable and reasonably priced
[amazon box=”B00IVF9WL4″ template=”horizontal” ]For a comfortable yet fulfilling cardio workout at your home, Marcy Magnetic is a recumbent bike that fits the bill.
Specs
- LCD display for digital tracking
- 8 level tension knob
- Maximum weight capacity is 300lbs
- Compact sized and lightweight (53lbs total weight)
- Comes with a 2 year warranty on its frame
With 8 preset resistance levels, Marcy Magnetic offers you a wide range of workout levels depending on your skill. Whichever tension you settle for, you can track your progress on the LCD panel that displays your speed, time and distance. At the simple touch of a button, you can also see how many calories you have burned.
While Marcy is a budget-friendly bike, it does not compromise on its comfort as well. It has handlebars that are foam covered to be easy on your hands. The seat is also fully adjustable such that you can get enough legroom even if you are tall.
The only downer with this bike is that the assembly process can be a tad complicated. Also, some users prefer going for a bike that has a phone/tablet holder
Pros
- Comfortable and safe for long term use
- Easy to move around (transportation wheels)
- Comes with a water bottle holder
Cons
- Does not have a phone/tablet holder
Verdict
For its budget price, Marcy Magnetic is good value for money. However, it does have its cons like the lack of a phone/tablet shelf.
ProForm 235 CSX- Comes with 18 workout apps making it stand out
[amazon box=”B01AC9V3JA” template=”horizontal” ]With an automatic resistance system and heavy-duty steel frame, ProForm 235 CSX is a reasonably priced recumbent bike.
Specs
- 18 Preset workout programs
- 18 digital resistance levels
- Maximum weight capacity is 275lbs
ProForm 235 CSX is jammed with many quality features. For instance, it comes with a large LCD panel and 18 workout apps. Coupled with its 18 levels of resistance, you can get a really fulfilling and effective workout with this recumbent bike.
This recumbent bike is also worth the buy because of its versatility. It has a weight capacity of 275lbs and has a sturdily built frame to handle pumped workouts. In fact, it has a 7 year warranty on its frame. It is also a good fit for many users because the seat is oversized and easily adjustable.
Pros
- Comes with a water bottle holder
- Impressive 7 year warranty on the frame and 90 days on parts
- Durable and comfortable seat
Cons
- Not designed for really tall users
Verdict
ProForm 235 CSX is an affordable bike that has premium quality features like 18 workout programs and a water bottle holder. The warranty also makes it stand out.
Stamina Recumbent Exercise Bike- Sold complete with an upper body exerciserÂ
[amazon box=”B01NAQ91DZ” template=”horizontal” ]This bike offers a low-impact workout that is no less effective making it good value for money.
Specs
- 8 levels of resistance
- Multi-functional LCD panel
- 350 lbs weight capacity
With Stamina recumbent exercise bike, you are in for a total-body workout. Its 8 levels of magnetic resistance help you work your lower body while the tension dial is tweaked to offer you an upper body workout as well. The grip positions including the padded and ergonomic handles also help with this.
Stamina is also a comfortable bike. The seat and backrest are all amply padded and upholstered. You will not have to worry about slipping about because you are sweaty. The pedals are also textured to keep your feet snugly in place.
Pros
- Easy to assemble and use
- Compact size and foldable
- Comfortable for long workouts as well
Cons
- Does not come with workout programs
Verdict
Stamina recumbent bike measures up because of its quality features. Also, you get an all-round experience with this bike. You can work both your upper and lower body on this bike because of the additional upper body exerciser.
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RB4708- Good steal because of its high weight capacity
[amazon box=”B07NDJFB2D” template=”horizontal” ]Sunny Health and Fitness is a well-known brand. The SF-RB4708 is a good example of all that is right with this manufacturer.
Specs
- LCD display panel for digital tracking
- 8 level resistance (adjustable)
- Maximum weight capacity is 350lbs
This recumbent bike comes with 8 levels of resistance that you can choose from. Depending on your fitness skills, you can really get a fulfilling workout with this bike.
It can also be used by all kinds of people because of its high weight capacity of 350lbs. The oversized back and seat also enhances its ability to support anyone who would want to have a ride on it.
As for its fitness tracking features, it has pulse sensors that monitor your heart rate throughout your workouts.
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- Comes with a device holder
- Transportation wheels makes it easy to move around
Cons
- Bulky
Verdict
Unlike most recumbent bikes, SF-RB4708 offers a full body workout. It comes with arm exercisers that you can use to flex your biceps. This makes it good value for your money.
What to consider before purchasing Best Recumbent Bikes for the Money
Design
While all recumbent bikes may seem to have the same structural design, there are some subtle design differences you should look out for. First, you should look at the seat and backrest design. A good recumbent bike for the money is one that has both of these features comfortable and well-padded.
Secondly, you need to look at the pedal design. You would not want to be slipping about because the pedals cannot securely have your feet in place. Consider going for textured pedals like those fitted in the Stamina Recumbent Bike.
Thirdly, the design of the flywheel heavily factors in. Remember, a heavy flywheel does not necessarily mean you are going to get a more challenging and effective workout. Finally, you have to figure out whether you want a foldable recumbent bike.
Frame
If you are tight on space or you simply want a recumbent bike you can move around, the frame is something you should be keen on. This stability and durability need not come at the cost of portability. There are many recumbent bikes that come with transportation wheels so that it is easy to move them around.
Accessories
Beyond all the must-have features that a recumbent bike should have you can also lookk at the additional features it comes with. For instance, it would not hurt keeping your eyes peeled for a recumbent bike that has a water bottle holder or an MP3 input. Also, some recumbent bikes like Teeter FreeStep offer a heavy duty mat to protect your floors from any wear and tear.
Price
Lastly, the prices on recumbent bikes greatly vary. There are high-end ones that need quite the splurge and a bit of breaking the bank. Others are more affordable that still have the quality features to match.
Remember to check if the product you are settle for has all you want. Also, you should not compromise on quality because you want to stick to your budget. Your best buy can be within your price range if you look hard enough.
Conclusion
Even if fitness is not your forte or you are recovering from surgery or an injury, you can still get the exercise you need using recumbent bike. They are designed to be comfortable, ergonomic and safe as well.
This article has highlighted on all the good quality recumbent bikes out there. It has focused on those that are assured to be great value for money. The last thing you would want is to spend your hard earned money on something that will not even last.
Before you settle on any of the products above, also have a look at the factors you ought to consider. This will help you narrow down to the bike that is the best fit for you. Like I said, whether you are on a spree or you are really strapped for cash, you deserve a recumbent bike that is your money’s worth.
FAQ’s
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Why are recumbent bikes that are good value for the money so ideal?
Unlike other indoor cycling equipment, recumbent bikes are really easy on your body but do not compromise on the kind of workout you are getting. You also get to burn more calories and build your endurance all at once.
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How long should a good recumbent bike last?
A good bike for the money is one that can last you many years without wearing out.
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Do these recumbent bikes require maintenance?
This article has listed quality recumbent bikes that require close to no maintenance. All you need to do is give it a wipe down every so often.