aspirateycling has the potential to benefit your health in many ways, including the mood-boosting properties of breathing in fresh air, the social element of riding with friends, and the simple act of improving your cardiovascular health with every pedal stroke.
But British weather isn’t always great, so for those who don’t want to miss out on a workout due to a dire forecast, indoor training replicates exercise (if not in the fresh air).
Not only are the best exercise bikes fantastic for burning some calories without having to wear all your outdoor gear, but if you’re a more serious rider, they can also help you reach your training goals. Working out at home has never been easier or more enjoyable, as you can often connect your phone or laptop to make the most of online training tools.
I tested a dozen exercise bikes, including the kinds you’d find in commercial gyms, as well as a dedicated riding simulator and recumbent model for people who find it difficult to sit hunched forward for long periods of time. The resulting list contains what I think I did best.
Although we’ve tried to appeal to a wide range of budgets, the build quality of these cheaper models is often not worth the investment, so it’s hard to recommend much for under £500.
At a glance
Why you should trust me
Although I no longer participate in formal cycling events, I still consider myself a keen cyclist and often go out on gravel bike rides with friends. Even if the ride now ends in a warm bar rather than a set finish line. But when the weather is bad, I try to stay fit by cycling at home or at the gym for when cycling season returns.
Having tested exercise equipment for numerous publications, I’m someone who always tests products for as long as possible. Using an exercise bike allows you to gain a lot of hands-on experience no matter how sweaty you are.
How I Tested It
Exercise bikes are typically bulky items that require installation or components. To make many of our tests feasible, we rented pre-assembled machines for a week or two or tested bikes in dedicated boutiques or workout spaces.
During each test, I used all available exercise modes and synced my smartphone or laptop to utilize third-party software or online classes (if available). The machines were evaluated based on build quality, features, ease of setup and storage (some companies offer premium white glove shipping), as well as overall adjustability or suitability for numerous family members.
After wearing a good pair of cycling shoes, I assessed the noise level with a smartphone-based decibel meter and made a more subjective assessment of the overall ride quality, comfort, and overall quality of the exercise experience.
202 Best Exercise Bikes6
Best exercise bikes overall:
Peloton Bike+
what we love
A diverse and attractive exercise that somehow seems fun
What we don’t love
Considering the initial cost, the cost of a monthly subscription may be difficult to afford.
Many competitors have attempted to emulate Peloton, but few have achieved the overall experience. Best of all, the brand is unrivaled in live and on-demand classes. From quick 15-minute spin classes to hardcore sports training, all led by motivational instructors and accompanied by a thumping soundtrack.
The Bike+ is the premium of the brand’s two exercise bikes and features a 23.8-inch (large!) HD display that lets you spin away from the machine for a moving workout. There is also an automatic resistance knob that adjusts to the level recommended by the instructor during class.
It’s expensive, with an “all access” membership costing £45 per month, but for engaging and interactive exercise targeting a wide range of users, nothing else can come close.
Why We Love It
The Bike+ may not be as aesthetically pleasing as some of its competitors, but it’s comfortable, easy to adjust, and won’t look too impressive in any space. It also has wheels, so it’s relatively easy to move it around by tilting the end slightly.
The Bike+’s touchscreen is of good quality and the sound from its built-in speakers is impressive, but it’s the variety of classes that makes the Peloton so appealing. Unlike many of its competitors, which can feel prescribed, mundane, and overly technical, Peloton makes a grueling 45-minute spin session feel enjoyable.
The weighted flywheel and belt drive system are quiet enough not to disturb others in the house. But hardcore road cyclists may be put off by Bike+ due to its lack of cycling realism and the bouncy, frenzied spin-class nature of many of its workouts.
It also doesn’t work well with third-party cycling apps like Zwift, Rouvy, and TrainerRoad, so if this is important to you, take a look at the Wattbike Proton below instead.
It’s a shame… It’s not as realistic as some rivals, and there’s a monthly fee to access classes and features.
size: 56 x 137 x 152cm(WLH)
weight: 65kg
Drivetrain: Belt driven with magnetic digital resistance adjustment
Simulation Grade: Not applicable
Connectivity: Bluetooth 5, ANT+, Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz)
folding: no
Noise level: About 30dB
Maximum user weight: 135 kg
Built-in entertainment: Yes, a 23.8-inch pivotable HD touchscreen with Peloton classes, Netflix, Disney+, and more
what we love
A diverse and attractive exercise that somehow seems fun
What we don’t love
Considering the initial cost, the cost of a monthly subscription may be difficult to afford.
Best budget exercise bikes for beginners:
Horizon 3.0SC Indoor Cycle
horizon
3.0SC indoor cycle
from £799
what we love
Well established and capable despite low entry cost
What we don’t love
With limited built-in movement, you need your own screen.
At the time of writing, the Horizon 3.0SC Indoor Cycle is priced at £569.99, making it one of the cheapest exercise bikes I’ve tested. But it certainly doesn’t feel cheap or underpowered compared to many of the other exercise bikes I’ve put my sweat into.
The 3.0SC has an ultra-smooth front-mounted flywheel that uses electronically adjustable magnetic resistance to provide 32 effort levels. All of this is controlled via funky, futuristic digital dials that respond quickly to inputs. This is perfect for jumping out of the saddle during high-intensity activities.
Although primarily designed for use in spin classes, the ergonomically cushioned seat and easily adjustable handlebars make it a comfortable place to pedal for some time. Oh, and it’s whisper quiet. It’s only 32dB. During my testing.
It might not be something you use to train for your upcoming sport of cycling, but it’s an affordable tool to achieve your daily fitness goals.
Why We Love It
The 3.0SC looks really cool. Depending on your RPM and the amount of effort you put into it, the flywheel emits eight vibrant colors, adding a little Tron-like sci-fi to any room.
In addition to its relatively compact proportions and lightweight construction, the bike connects well and works well with Zwift, Kinomap and other third-party fitness apps. There are more realistic-feeling bikes out there, but swap out the pedals for a dedicated clipless system and this is a pretty convincing road bike. For example, the space between the cranks is as tight as possible, so it drives like a real road machine.
If you’re looking for on-demand fitness classes, you’ll find them through Horizon’s free atZone workout app. Just pair your phone or tablet with your bike, attach it to the secure plastic holder on the front of the bar, and you’re ready to go. The free service has a ton of content and tracks your progress over time.
That’s a shame … There’s no integrated display, so you’ll need to bring your tablet or smartphone for instructor-led workouts.
size: 52 x 107 x 120cm (WLH)
weight: 36kg
drivetrain: Belt drive with ECB (eddy current) magnetic and electromagnetic resistance (32 levels)
Simulation Grade: Not applicable
Connectivity: Bluetooth 5 (FTMS compatible for app integration)
folding: No (but has wheels for moving around)
Noise level: About 32dB
maxMaximum user weight: 100 kg
Built-in entertainment: There is no built-in screen. Includes tablet holder and syncs with training app.
horizon
3.0SC indoor cycle
from £799
what we love
Well established and capable despite low entry cost
What we don’t love
With limited built-in movement, you need your own screen.
Best small exercise bikes:
watt bike proton
watt bike
proton
from £1,575
what we love
It feels realistic and can be easily customized between family members.
What we don’t love
You’ll need to bring your own video entertainment/inspiration.
Wattbike is perhaps best known for its unique red, white, and black airbike machines that can be found in gyms and health clubs across the country. The company has since branched out into the at-home workout space, and Proton falls somewhere in the middle of the range, offering a lightweight, compact footprint and support for popular third-party training apps including Zwift and TrainingPeaks.
Its sensational looks and confusing exercise program risk turning off more casual users, but the Proton is designed to appeal to the whole family. It comfortably fits people between 4 feet 6 inches and 6 feet 6 inches tall. Although it’s not as quiet as some rivals, the Proton has a realistic ride quality and even features an auto-adjusting ergonomic mode (ERG) that lets you simulate inclines and gear changes without lifting a finger.
Why We Love It
The Wattbike does a great job of maintaining a realistic bike feel in a lightweight, compact machine with a fully adjustable seatpost, saddle and handlebars, making it easy to set up to suit your needs. I was able to quickly swap out my standard toe cage pedals for some Shimano clipless pedals. As a result, my performance improved and I had more control over my pedal strokes. Replacing pedals on most exercise bikes takes about 5 minutes if you have the right spanner or hex key. Adding cleats and pedals allows you to wear a dedicated cycling shoe, which provides better force transfer between your legs and pedals compared to a basic adjustable toe cage.
Wattbike’s background in working with professional athletes is evident in the Wattbike Hub app, which provides real-time feedback on pedal strokes and efficiency, among other data fields. The app has been tweaked to appeal to more casual fitness enthusiasts, but it’s not beginner-friendly and you won’t find the same interactivity you would in a Peloton class. It’s better to follow graphs and on-screen warnings about your posture than to watch a live demonstration from a cheerful personal trainer.
However, there are still many exercises aimed at improving overall health rather than targeting highly trained athletes. And whenever you want, you can mount your iPad in its dedicated holder and binge-watch TV or complete that virtual workout session of your choice. Proton’s Bluetooth FTMS technology means it will work with most third-party apps. Zwift, TrainerRoad, Rouvy, etc.
It’s a shame… The app isn’t slicker and has more features to attract and retain beginners.
size: 57 x 102 x 127cm(WLH)
weight: 48kg
Drivetrain: Chain drive with electromagnetic resistance
Maximum power output: 1,800W
Simulation Grade: Up to +25% slope
Connectivity: ANT+ FE-C, Bluetooth (FTMS compatible for app integration)
folding: no; Front transport wheels are included for easy movement.
Noise level: About 40dB
maxMaximum user weight: 135kg
Built-in entertainment: There is no built-in screen. Tablet holder included
watt bike
proton
from £1,575
what we love
It feels realistic and can be easily customized between family members.
What we don’t love
You’ll need to bring your own video entertainment/inspiration.
Best gym quality exercise bikes:
technogym bike
what we love
Outstanding performance with extensive support and built-in apps
What we don’t love
The initial cost and subscription cost are high.
Technogym has been steadily raising the bar for smart fitness equipment with a growing range of connected kits aimed at bringing the personal trainer experience into your home.
Clearly designed to fit the likes of Peloton, the Technogym Bike is a stylish bike with a 22-inch high-definition touchscreen that provides access to a variety of Technogym live and on-demand content.
The small, slim frame looks and feels like it’s aimed at more serious cyclists than Peloton’s offerings, and the riding experience is smoother and slightly more natural than its competitors. It has a variety of adjustability features for riders of different sizes, and the included reversible pedals allow it to be used with trainers or SPD cycling shoes (clipless shoe system).
The built-in screen is clear, easy to navigate, and provides access to entertainment apps including YouTube and Netflix. It also swivels to allow for off-the-bike sessions. However, it’s one of the more expensive models I’ve tested, with additional membership fees starting at £8.99 per month. ouch.
Why We Love It
The riding experience is comfortable without straying too far from realistic simulation, and the powerful flywheel provides incredible levels of resistance. Technogym has live classes, just like Peloton, but it also appeals to more hardcore athletes, with a dedicated training program for those with ambitions to tackle the Col de Turini.
If you’re looking for the best in design and build quality and your bank balance allows for the luxury, you’ll be happy with this bike. This is a nice, well-built machine that straddles the line between a dedicated cycling trainer and a spin bike well.
It also works with most third-party training apps and syncs neatly with Apple Fitness and Apple Watch via the QuickTap NFC panel. For those committed to Lycra, Technogym offers the much more expensive Ride model, built to compete with the most serious offerings from Wattbike and Wahoo.
It’s a shame… It costs too much and Technogym charges more for monthly membership.
size: 59 x 121 x 138cm(WLH)
weight: 67kg
Drivetrain: Belt drive with magnetic resistance (level 20)
Simulation Grade: not specified
Connectivity: Support for streaming via external devices (e.g. Chromecast, Fire TV Stick); Apple Watch pairing; Technogym Live integration and third-party apps
folding: no
Noise level: About 30dB
Maximum user weight: 160kg
Built-in entertainment: Yes, a rotating display that lets you stream apps (TV shows, movies, games, etc.) via your smartphone, tablet, or laptop.
what we love
Outstanding performance with extensive support and built-in apps
What we don’t love
The initial cost and subscription cost are high.
Best recumbent exercise bike:
LifeFitness RS3 Lifecycle
life fitness
RS3 life cycle
from £2,095
what we love
Comfortable and ergonomic design for people who need a more leisurely workout
What we don’t love
The console is tricky to use and has no built-in multimedia.
Recumbent bikes are perfect for people who suffer from back pain, struggle with past injuries, or simply find it difficult or uncomfortable to sit for long periods of time on a traditional exercise bike. You can achieve the same low-impact cardio workout while enjoying a more comfortable seating position that relieves pressure on your lower back, leg joints, and neck.
LifeFitness is a reputable brand that supplies commercial gym equipment and kits that are better suited for home use, while the RS3 falls somewhere in between the two. For your money, you can get a comfortable, ergonomically designed seat with a backrest, 20 levels of resistance, and a stepped design for easy entry and exit. Additionally, the seat has a variety of adjustments to help you achieve the perfect workout position.
Although it is larger than many traditional exercise bikes, it has transport wheels so it can be lifted and moved.
Why We Love It
More experienced riders may find recumbent bikes too relaxed. This is because it is difficult to transmit maximum power through the crank from a more comfortable seating position. That said, it’s not really designed to beat a PB. Best suited for longer, lower-intensity, steady-state cardio sessions.
It connects to Rouvy, Zwift, and several other third-party fitness apps, but the digital offering is basic, with several built-in and customizable workouts directly from the console. Users can also pair their Apple or Samsung Galaxy Watch for heart rate tracking and more.
Some recumbent bikes may feel budget-friendly, but that’s not the case here. With excellent build quality and a smooth, quiet ride, the RS3 is a comfortable place to sweat without pain.
It’s a shame… The Track Connect 2.0 console is tricky to use and has no built-in multimedia.
size: 68 x 164 x 131cm(WLH)
weight: 69.8kg
Drivetrain: Front driven reluctance, manual adjustment
Simulation Grade: Not applicable
Connectivity: Bluetooth FTMS and NFC for synchronization with apps, wireless HR receiver
folding: no
Noise level: Less than 30dB
maximum user weight: 181kg
Built-in entertainment: No, 7-inch LCD display with Track Connect console for external tablet/smartphone streaming and app integration
life fitness
RS3 life cycle
from £2,095
what we love
Comfortable and ergonomic design for people who need a more leisurely workout
What we don’t love
The console is tricky to use and has no built-in multimedia.
best of the rest
wahoo kicker shift
wahoo
kicker shift
from £2,199.99
what we love
Highly customizable and great compatibility with virtual cycling apps
What we don’t love
Wattbike Proton is cheaper and similar.
Best suited for: cycling enthusiast
If you’re interested in virtual cycling apps like Zwift, Rouvy, and TrainerRoad, or just want to replicate the feel of road cycling at home, Wahoo’s Kickr Shift is one of the best indoor training tools for enthusiasts.
Saddle, stem height and reach can all be easily adjusted on the fly, and users can also choose their preferred crank length. Heck, this bike simulates several electronically assisted gear groupsets from Shimano and Campagnolo, mimicking the way cogs feel when shifting under load.
An incredibly quiet, smooth and powerful piece of equipment that works perfectly with a dedicated cycling training app. For those who want to indulge in chamois cream on the weekend, this product is the perfect indoor companion.
Because it didn’t appear in the final cut. … The Wattbike Proton feels like a more well-rounded machine that the whole family can use.
size: 78x140x110cm(WLH); weight: 36kg; Drivetrain: Belt drive with electromagnetic resistance; Maximum power output: 2,200W; Simulation Grade: +20% up, -15% down; Connectivity: ANT+, ANT+ FE-C, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, direct connect; folding: no; Noise level: less than 30dB; Maximum user weight: 113kg; Built-in entertainment: There is no built-in screen. External device required for app/display.
wahoo
kicker shift
from £2,199.99
what we love
Highly customizable and great compatibility with virtual cycling apps
What we don’t love
Wattbike Proton is cheaper and similar.
NordicTrack X24 Studio Bike
nordic track
X24 Studio Bike
from £1,799
what we love
Huge 24-inch screen perfect for spin classes
What we don’t love
It’s not as slick as Peloton’s multimedia offerings.
Best suited for: Studio spin bike as comfortable as home
Another rival to the Peloton Bike+, NordicTrack’s indoor trainer is a great spinning machine for a smooth yet powerful ride, with realistic resistance that’ll challenge even seasoned cyclists. It also comes with a whopping 24-inch touchscreen for immersive online sessions.
Sure, the iFit virtual training environment doesn’t rival the Hollywood gloss of Peloton’s classes, but it comes very close, and the actual bikes feel more accomplished and modern than Peloton’s slightly clunky-looking machines.
A -10% simulated descent at a 20% incline means it also doubles as an excellent, ultra-realistic road or mountain bike training tool, with interactive videos that allow you to virtually cycle some of the most beautiful places on Earth.
Because it didn’t appear in the final cut. … iFit doesn’t match Peloton’s offerings, and the multimedia setup isn’t quite as slick.
size: 55 x 143 x 159 cm (WLH); weight: 81kg; Drivetrain: Quiet magnetic resistance, 24 digital levels; Simulation Grade: +20% up/-10% down; Connectivity: Bluetooth (headphones and HR monitor), Wi-Fi (for iFit), USB-C port, app integration via iFit (syncs with Strava, Garmin, Google Fit, Apple Health) folding: no; Noise level: About 32dB; Maximum user weight: 159kg; Built-in entertainment: Yes, 24-inch rotating HD touchscreen with built-in speakers and iFit streaming of workouts, classes and entertainment apps
nordic track
X24 Studio Bike
from £1,799
what we love
Huge 24-inch screen perfect for spin classes
What we don’t love
It’s not as slick as Peloton’s multimedia offerings.
Schwinn 510R Recumbent
Shubin
510R Recumbent
from £999
what we love
Exercise while lying down at a reasonable price
What we don’t love
Questionable build quality and inaccurate heart rate monitoring
Best suited for: recumbent bike on a budget
Offering a cheaper alternative to the LifeFitness recumbent above, Schwinn’s more basic model values comfort and adjustability but tops it off with a slightly lighter, cheaper-feeling frame.
The 5.5-inch split LCD screen covers basic functions and offers a variety of built-in exercise functions. There’s also always the option to pair a tablet or smartphone and take advantage of Zwift and other digital education apps.
It offers excellent value for money, but don’t expect the same kind of build quality as its more expensive rivals. The handle-mounted heart rate monitor was very inaccurate during testing and has a cheap plastic cover that obscures some of the retaining bolts. On that topic, don’t expect white glove delivery service at this price.
Because it didn’t appear in the final cut… It’s not as powerful as its competitors, and the built-in heart rate monitor was too poor during testing.
size: 69 x 163 x 113 cm (WLH); weight: 37kg; Drivetrain: Belt driven flywheel with 16 levels of passive reluctance; Simulation Grade: Not applicable; Connectivity: Bluetooth (FTMS compatible for app integration); Wireless heart rate compatibility (strap not included); folding: no; Noise level: About 32dB; Maximum user weight: 136kg; Built-in entertainment: There is no built-in screen for media. Includes 5.5-inch LCD console (for metrics and programs) and media shelf for tablet
Shubin
510R Recumbent
from £999
what we love
Exercise while lying down at a reasonable price
What we don’t love
Questionable build quality and inaccurate heart rate monitoring
Matrix U50
what we love
Incredibly realistic feel and excellent build quality
What we don’t love
It’s expensive considering the digital offering is a bit weak.
Best suited for: gym quality upright bike
This model treads the line between a serious studio bike like the Peloton Bike+ or NordicTrack X24 and a more comfortable bike. It features a comfortable padded seat, large self-balancing pedals, and a unique handlebar design that allows for a variety of hand positions. Despite the upright position, the ride is realistic and has 30 resistance levels.
The XUR digital console is not that good, so it costs a lot. It’s like products from Technogym, Peloton, and NordicTrack, but this is a solid, reliable, and comfortable piece of kit from one of the biggest names in commercial gym equipment.
Because it didn’t appear in the final cut… It’s an expensive bike with less impressive digital features than its cheaper competitors.
size: 63x122x143cm(WLH); weight: 60kg; Drivetrain: Exact Force inductive brakes (electronically adjustable resistance); Simulation Grade: Not applicable; Connectivity: Wi-Fi (entertainment apps, software updates), Bluetooth (FTMS compatible with app integration, HR monitor, headphones), HDMI port, USB (media and charging); folding: no. Includes transport wheels. Noise level: About 28dB; Maximum user weight: 159kg; Built-in entertainment: Yes, 22-inch HD touchscreen with apps like Netflix, YouTube, Spotify, web browser, social media, tablet/HDMI mirroring
what we love
Incredibly realistic feel and excellent build quality
What we don’t love
It’s expensive considering the digital offering is a bit weak.
What you need to know
How much should I spend?
Exercise bikes vary widely in price. The cheapest models often take the form of a basic upright or spin bike focused purely on pedaling, while the most expensive models offer large HD touchscreens, automatic resistance adjustments, and fully integrated training platforms.
Budget models typically start from £250-£400, but often lack the build quality and adjustability needed for long-term use. At the other end of the spectrum, premium connected bikes such as those from Peloton, Technogym and NordicTrack can set you back more than £2,000, and interactive classes often require a monthly subscription.
For most riders, a budget of between £600 and £1,200 is a good place to start for solid build quality, smooth resistance and decent connectivity without straying into commercial gym territory.
How much space do you need?
Even the smallest exercise bikes take up space, with the smallest options measuring around 55 x 120 x 130 cm (WLH). Although it requires less floor space than a treadmill or cross trainer, you’ll need clearance around the bike for safe mounting and dismounting, as well as enough ceiling height to remain comfortable when standing on the pedals.
Recumbent bikes, which offer a chair-like riding position, require more floor space, while upright and indoor bikes are more compact. You may want to look at folding exercise bikes, but these can often be flimsy and have little pedal resistance.
What features should you look for? For?
The most important thing is the resistance system. Magnetic resistance is smoother, quieter and requires less maintenance than traditional friction-based systems found on traditional studio spin bikes. Belt drive systems are preferred over chain drives for quiet, low-maintenance operation.
Adjustability is another key factor. Bicycles with multiple saddle and handlebar positions ensure better ergonomics and comfort over long periods of use and are suitable for more family members.
For those who want to stay entertained, connected bikes with integrated screens and app compatibility (Zwift, Peloton, iFit, etc.) can make training more interesting. Heart rate monitoring and Bluetooth/ANT+ connectivity are also useful for tracking your progress.
Finally, it’s worth considering noise levels. This is especially true if you live in an apartment or plan to exercise while others are sleeping. Modern magnetic systems are extremely quiet, making them ideal for shared living spaces.
Leon Poultney has been a consumer technology and automotive journalist for longer than he’d like to admit. A lifelong fitness enthusiast, he can often be found mountain biking/surfboarding/doing other extreme things at the request of his editors, trying not to kill himself. Whether it’s learning about the latest connected kettlebells or participating in a CrossFit session, Leon is always willing to put his body on the line for a great edit.