The 10 Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes for Home Workouts in 2023
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We looked at features, workouts, cost, and reviews to pool options like foldable, small-space models from Lanos and Exerpeutic, and NordicTrack’s high-end version.
- Best overall:Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike | Skip to review
- Best value:Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike | Skip to review
- Best high end:NordicTrack Commercial R35 | Skip to review
- Best for streaming:ProForm Pro C10R Recumbent Bike | Skip to review
- Best for small spaces:Lanos Folding Exercise Bike | Skip to review
- Best for older adults:Sunny Health and Fitness Recumbent Exercise Bike SF-RB4616 | Skip to review
- Best multifunctional:ATIVAFIT Folding Upright and Recumbent Exercise Bike | Skip to review
- Best with a heart rate monitor:Nautilus R618 Recumbent Bike | Skip to review
- Best foldable:Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike | Skip to review
- Best for a full-body workout:Sunny Health and Fitness Recumbent Bike Cross Trainer SF-RB4708 | Skip to review
Recumbent bikes are a type of exercise bike that you use in a reclined position.
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Many people prefer them to upright models, as recumbent bikes are often more comfortable and stable, and they provide additional support for your upper body and lower back.
However, with numerous options available, choosing the right recumbent bike for you can be challenging.
Keep reading for our picks of the 10 best recumbent exercise bikes.
We selected the recumbent exercise bikes included in this article based on the following criteria:
- Available features: The bikes include features such as:
- pulse sensors
- built-in speakers
- device holders
- streamable workout classes
A note on price
General price ranges with dollar signs ($–$$$) are indicated below.
Generally, list prices range from $169.99–$1,499, though this may vary depending on available discounts and where you shop.
Pricing guide
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Best overall
Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike
4.5 (8.9k+) from Amazon
- Item dimensions: 64 x 27.7 x 49.9 in.
- Resistance: 25 levels
- Subscription required: no
*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
Austra Health’s review
The Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike is smooth, comfortable, and moderately priced, earning our top spot as the overall best recumbent bike on the market.
In addition to providing 29 preset workout programs, it offers:
- Bluetooth connectivity
- 25 levels of resistance
- an LCD screen
- a media rack
- in-console speakers
Plus, to provide a smoother ride, it features a weighted flywheel, which is a mechanical device that spins to help build momentum while you exercise.
One of the unique features of the Schwinn 270 is that it is virtual reality (VR) compatible, allowing you to connect it to a VR headset and ride through scenic destinations from around the world using apps such as Explore the World.
Pros and cons
Product details
- User requirements : 300-pound weight limit
- Display type : LCD swiveling screen
- Training programs : preset workouts
- Compatible apps : Explore the World, MyFitnessPal
- Bluetooth : yes
- Foldable : no
Best value
Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike
4.5 (19.9k+) from Amazon
- Item dimensions: 55.5 × 25 × 37.5 in (141 × 63.5 × 95.3 cm)
- Resistance: 8 levels, magnetic
- Subscription required: no
*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
Austra Health’s review
With more than 15,000 positive online reviews, this recumbent bike from Marcy is proof that you don’t need to break the bank to get a good workout.
It features eight levels of resistance, a padded seat, foam-covered handles, and an LCD monitor that displays your:
It’s also designed with weighted pedals and foot straps that you can adjust to find the right fit.
Pros and cons
Product details
Best high end
NordicTrack Commercial R35 Exercise Bike
4.7 (11+) from NordicTrack
- Item dimensions: 68.2 × 23.7 × 53.4 in (172.7 × 60.2 × 135.6 cm)
- Resistance: 26 levels, magnetic
- Subscription required: yes
*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
Austra Health’s review
While it’s a bit of a splurge, the NordicTrack Commercial R35 offers a long list of impressive features.
- 26 levels of digital resistance
- digitally amplified built-in speakers
- a self-adjusting fan
- an ergonomic seat designed to maximize lumbar support
The bike has a weight capacity of 350 lbs (158.8 kg) and features a smooth and silent flywheel to ensure a comfortable ride.
It’s also equipped with a 14-in (35.5-cm) touch screen, which you can use to stream cycling classes through the iFit app.
In addition to live and on-demand workouts, the iFit app provides real-time performance stat tracking and live workout leaderboards for extra motivation.
The NordicTrack bike comes with a 30-day iFit family membership, which you can renew for $39 per month or $396 per year.
Pros and cons
Product details
- Maximum weight capacity : 350 lb (158.8 kg)
- Display type : HD touch screen
- Training programs : live and on-demand classes using iFit
- Compatible apps : iFit
- Bluetooth : yes
- Foldable : no
Best for streaming
ProForm Pro C10R Recumbent Bike
- Item dimensions: 56.8 x 25.4 x 49.8 in (144.3 × 64.5 × 126.5 cm)
- Resistance: 25 levels, magnetic
- Subscription required: yes
*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
Austra Health’s review
f you’re looking to stream classes directly from your bike but don’t need tons of other special features, the Pro C10R may be a good option for you.
It has a 10-in (25.4-cm) touch screen and comes with a 30-day iFit family membership for streaming workouts and recording your workout data.
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- 25 levels of magnetic resistance
-
- a fan to keep you cool while you work out
Plus, the seat adjusts vertically and horizontally, making it easier for multiple users to share. The seat also has an oversized cushion for added comfort.
Keep in mind that an iFit family membership costs $39 per month or $396 per year.
Pros and cons
Product details
- Maximum weight capacity : 300 lb (136.1 kg)
- Display type : HD touch screen
- Training programs : live and on-demand classes using iFit
- Compatible apps : iFit
- Bluetooth : yes
- Foldable : no
Best for small spaces
LANOS Folding Exercise X-Bike
4.3 (7.9k+) from Amazon
- Item dimensions: 22 × 20 × 55.5 in (55.9 × 50.8 × 141 cm)
- Resistance: 10 levels, magnetic
- Subscription required: no
*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
Austra Health’s review
Thanks to its multifunctional, foldable design, the Lanos Folding Exercise Bike is a great space-saving addition to your home or office.
Even though it has a small footprint, it still offers plenty of features and can support users up to 330 lbs (149.7 kg).
The bike includes:
- 10 levels of magnetic resistance
- pulse sensors
- a digital LCD monitor
- a fully adjustable cushioned seat
- a media rack for streaming workouts on your smartphone or tablet
It’s also available in three colors and can be used as an upright or recumbent bike to add variety to your workout routine.
Pros and cons
Product details
- Maximum weight capacity : 330 lb (149.7 kg)
- Display type : LCD
- Training programs : none
- Compatible apps : none
- Bluetooth : no
- Foldable : yes
Best for older adults
Sunny Health and Fitness Recumbent Exercise Bike SF-RB4616
4.5 (7.3k+) from Amazon
- Item dimensions: 46 × 24.5 × 38 in (116.8 × 62.2 × 96.5 cm)
- Resistance: 8 levels, magnetic
- Subscription required: no
*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
Austra Health’s review
With eight levels of magnetic resistance plus a cushioned seat and backrest, this recumbent bike is a good option for older adults. It has:
- self-leveling pedals
- adjustable pedal straps
- an LCD monitor that’s easy to read
The handlebars on either side of the seat have pulse grip sensors, and there’s an additional set of nonslip handlebars next to the LCD screen.
You can move the seat both forward and backward while you’re still seated so you can easily find a position that’s comfortable for your knees, hips, and back.
Pros and cons
Product details
- Maximum weight capacity : 300 lb (136.1 kg)
- Display type : LCD
- Training programs : available through the SunnyFit app
- Compatible apps : SunnyFit
- Bluetooth : no
- Foldable : no
Best multifunctional
ATIVAFIT Folding Upright and Recumbent Bike
4.4 (14.5k+) from Amazon
- Item dimensions: 27.8 x 45.6 in (70.6 x 115.8 cm) upright, 29.9 x 41.7 in (80 x 105.9 cm) recumbent
- Resistance: 8 levels, magnetic
- Subscription required: no
*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
Austra Health’s review
This exercise bike can adjust to upright and recumbent positions, so you can easily mix up your exercise routine without buying multiple pieces of equipment. It includes:
- 8 levels of magnetic resistance
- pulse sensors
- an LCD monitor
It folds easily and has transport wheels for convenient storage.
Plus, it comes with arm resistance bands to allow for a full-body workout while you ride.
While this bike has a lower max weight capacity than more traditional recumbent exercise bikes, its lighter weight also makes it easier to move.
Pros and cons
Product details
- Maximum weight capacity : 275 lb (124.7 kg)
- Display type : LCD
- Training programs : none
- Compatible apps : none
- Bluetooth : no
- Foldable : yes
Best with a heart rate monitor
Nautilus R618 Recumbent Bike
4.4 (1.7k+) from Amazon
- Item dimensions: 67.3 × 26.4 × 48.8 in. (170.9 × 67.1 × 124 cm)
- Resistance: 25 levels, magnetic resistance
- Subscription required: no
*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
Austra Health’s review
The Nautilus R618 Recumbent Bike offers plenty of options to customize your workout, such as:
- 25 levels of resistance
- 29 built-in workout programs
- a padded seat with a sliding rail
Using a chest strap heart rate monitor will generally provide a more accurate reading of your heart rate than relying on pulse grip sensors alone.
The R618 also comes with a heart rate monitoring chest strap that connects to the bike via Bluetooth and can be used with the bike’s heart rate-based training programs.
It’s also equipped with:
Plus, you can use your bike with the Explore the World app, which allows you to ride through a variety of routes in destinations around the globe.
Pros and cons
Product details
- Maximum weight capacity : 325 lb (147 kg)
- Display type : LCD
- Training programs : 29 preset workouts
- Compatible apps : Peloton, Swift, MyFitness Pal, Google Fit, Apple Health
- Bluetooth : yes
- Foldable : no
Best foldable
IRONMAN Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike
4.5 (5.5k+) from Amazon
- Item dimensions: 33 × 19 × 46 in (83.8 × 48.3 × 116.8 cm)
- Resistance: 8 levels, magnetic
- Subscription required: no
*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
Austra Health’s review
If you’re looking for a recumbent bike that you can fold and store between workout sessions, check out this model from Exerpeutic. This user-friendly bike offers:
-
- 8 levels of magnetic resistance
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- an easy-to-read LCD monitor
-
- a large, cushioned seat and backrest for extra comfort and support
What’s more, it can be used with any height-adjustable desk, allowing you to squeeze in a cardio workout while working.
Pros and cons
Product details
- Maximum weight capacity : 300 lb (136.1 kg)
- Screen size : not available
- Training programs : Bluetooth-enabled for streaming live and on-demand classes using your own device
- Compatible apps : MyCloudFitness app
- Bluetooth : yes
- Foldable : yes
Best for a full-body workout
Sunny Health and Fitness Recumbent Bike Cross Trainer SF-RB4708
4.4 (3.6k+) from Amazon
- Item dimensions: 60 x 25.5 x 52 in (152.4 x 64.8 x 132 cm)
- Resistance: 8 levels, magnetic
- Subscription required: no
*Price is accurate as of the date of publication.
Austra Health’s review
If you’re hoping for a full-body workout, the Recumbent Bike Cross Trainer from Sunny Health and Fitness can help you work on your upper body while you ride.
The bike has 8 levels of magnetic resistance, and the handlebars include heart rate sensors.
The extra-wide seat has thick cushioning to keep you comfortable, and the seat can be adjusted while you’re still sitting down, so you won’t have to get up each time you want to raise or lower the seat’s height.
It also has adjustable pedal straps and transportation wheels if you need to move it to another location.
Pros and cons
Product details
- Maximum weight capacity : 350 lb (158.8 kg)
- Display type : digital
- Training programs : available through the SunnyFit app
- Compatible apps : SunnyFit
- Bluetooth : no
- Foldable : no
There are several factors to consider when shopping for a recumbent bike.
First, it’s helpful to determine which features are most important for you and your fitness goals, such as:
- heart rate monitors
- built-in speakers
- touch screens
- device holders
- Bluetooth connectivity
You’ll also want to consider which type of resistance a recumbent bike offers. The most common types of resistance are:
- Magnetic resistance: Powerful magnets apply resistance against the flywheel. This is one of the most popular types because it’s generally the quietest and requires less maintenance than contact (friction) resistance. However, magnetic resistance bikes tend to be more expensive.
- Contact (friction) resistance: A felt or leather pad applies direct resistance against the flywheel. This option is slightly louder than magnetic resistance but not terribly so. The biggest drawback: You’ll need to replace pads as they wear down over time.
- Air resistance:Air bikes create resistance by pushing air through a large fan as you pedal. While this is the loudest form of resistance, it’s a favorite for high intensity interval training (HIIT) enthusiasts because the difficulty is a direct result of the amount of effort you put in.
Beyond the physical bike, you’ll want to consider the types of workouts and classes you prefer.
While some recumbent bikes offer streaming capabilities for live or on-demand classes, others come with built-in workout programs.
You’ll also want to evaluate your budget and look for a product that’s within your price range, as recumbent bikes can differ greatly in cost.
Here’s a quick look at how our top picks compare:
Price Weight capacity Display Workouts Schwinn 270* $$ 300 lbs (136.1 kg) DualTrack blue backlit LCD screens 29 presets Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike $ 300 lbs (136.1 kg) LCD screen none NordicTrack Commercial R35* $$$ 350 lbs (158.8 kg) 14-in (35.5-cm) HD touch screen iFit enabled ProForm Pro C10R Recumbent Bike* $$ 300 lbs (136.1 kg) 10-in. (25.4-cm) HD touch screen iFit enabled Lanos Folding Exercise Bike $ 330 lbs (149.7 kg) LCD monitor none Sunny Health and Fitness Recumbent Exercise Bike SF-RB4616 $ 300 lbs (136.1 kg) LCD monitor none ATIVAFIT Folding Upright and Recumbent Exercise Bike $ 275 lbs (124.7 kg) LCD monitor none Nautilus R618 Recumbent Bike* $$ 325 lbs (147.4 kg) dual backlit LCD screens 29 presets Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike* $ 300 lbs (136.1 kg) LCD monitor Bluetooth enabled to stream classes on your own device Sunny Health and Fitness Recumbent Bike Cross Trainer SF-RB4708 $ 350 lbs (158.8 kg) digital monitor available through the SunnyFit app on your own device While any form of indoor cycling may offer several health benefits, recumbent bikes have been recommended as a great form of endurance conditioning exercise, particularly if you’re newer to exercise, rehabbing an injury, or have joint discomfort.
Recumbent bikes are considered a low impact exercise option for older adults or anyone with hip, back, or knee pain ( 1 , 2).
Thanks to the reclined seating position, recumbent bikes place less strain on your lower back, and the backrest provides added support. Additionally, the low impact nature of pedaling puts less pressure on your knees as you exercise and is a great choice if you’re rehabbing an injury.
Research suggests that recumbent bike use helps improve range of motion and flexibility, which can help alleviate certain forms of pain. Using a stationary bike can even help improve range of motion in the hips more than using a heat pack (3).
With that said, it’s important to talk with a healthcare professional to see if a recumbent bike is suitable for your specific needs and concerns.
Does a recumbent bike offer a good workout?
Yes, you can get a good workout with a recumbent bike. Similar to walking on a treadmill or riding an upright bike, using a recumbent bike can help strengthen the muscles in your core and legs ( 4 ).
Some recumbent bikes even include features to support upper-body strength training while you ride.
Can you lose weight exercising with a recumbent bike?
Pedaling on a recumbent bike offers a cardio workout that burns calories. When combined with a healthy diet, indoor cycling can be a low impact way to support your weight loss efforts ( 1 ).
Just keep in mind that the exact number of calories burned depends on several factors, including the duration and intensity of your workout and individual characteristics such as your:
While it’s not always 100% accurate, you can get an estimate of the number of calories burned during your workout using your bike’s monitor, a fitness tracker, or a workout app.
Is riding a recumbent bike as good as walking?
Depending on your workout goals and health restrictions, riding a recumbent bike can be as good or possibly even better than walking.
Both are low impact workouts, but because riders are seated and supported on a recumbent bike, those with balance issues don’t have to worry about tripping and falling while they exercise.
Biking also typically burns more calories in a shorter time.
That said, walking is a good choice if you find it more enjoyable, plus it can make it easier to exercise outside. Whatever style of exercise you’re considering, it’s always a good idea to discuss it with a healthcare professional.
What is the best recumbent exercise bike for older adults?
Choosing the best recumbent exercise bike for older adults depends on a number of factors, including budget and workout needs or restrictions.
Some features to look for may include:
- an easy-to-read display screen
- wide ergonomic pedals
- a step-through design to make it easier to get onto the bike
- extra cushioning on the seat and backrest
A recumbent bike is a great addition to any home gym.
There are a variety of options to choose from, each of which offers a wide range of features and functions.
Be sure to consider the price, training options, and available features to find a recumbent bike that works for you.
Last medically reviewed on April 7, 2023
How we reviewed this article:
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
