The 8 Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes, Tested

Benefits of Using a Recumbent Exercise Bike

Recumbent exercise bikes offer many benefits, making them popular for exercisers who want an effective, low-impact workout from home. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Joint-Friendliness: Recumbent bikes place less stress on your joints, making them accessible if you have arthritis, lower back pain, or joint issues. 
• Back Support: The reclined seating position provides better support for your lower back, reducing the risk of strain and discomfort during workouts.
• Comfort and Stability: The larger seat and backrest offer enhanced comfort and stability, which can be especially beneficial for older adults or those with balance issues.
• Cardiovascular Health: Pedaling on a recumbent bike provides an effective aerobic workout that can improve your cardiovascular system over time.
• Muscle Strengthening: Recumbent bikes help strengthen the muscles in your glutes, hamstrings, calves, and quadriceps while improving functional abilities.
• Safety: The bike’s low-to-the-ground design makes it easier to get on and off, reducing the risk of falls and injuries.

What to Look for When Shopping for a Recumbent Exercise Bike

• Weight and Height Capacity: Before making a purchase, check the bike’s weight and height capacity to ensure it can accommodate you and anyone else in your home who may use it. You might also want to choose a bike with adjustable seat positions to fit different heights since this will promote proper form and prevent strain during workouts.
• Adjustability: Along with adjustable seat positions, your bike should have an adjustable backrest and handlebars to ensure proper alignment. You might also want to look for adjustable foot cages for secure pedaling. Proper positioning allows you to comfortably reach and hold the handlebars and use any controls on the display screen.
• Resistance: Most recumbent bikes use magnetic tension resistance on the flywheel to create a quiet, smooth ride that can be as challenging as you want it to be. Ensure your bike has enough resistance levels to challenge your workouts. The heavier the flywheel itself, the more realistic your riding experience will be.
• Display: Some bikes have a display screen that lets you track helpful metrics like time, speed, distance, calories burned, and more in real time. And some even offer compatibility with third-party fitness apps and Bluetooth connectivity to enhance your workout experience further. If you choose a bike with a display, make sure it is clear and easy to use. 
• Workout Programs and Features: If you enjoy following pre-set workouts, choose a bike with built-in programs to keep your routines interesting and challenging. Some bikes also offer custom program options, allowing you to tailor workouts to your specific fitness goals. Other nice-to-have features include USB ports, fans, tablet holders, and built-in speakers. 

How We Selected and Tested the Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes

To find the best recumbent bikes, we researched over a dozen models from reputable fitness equipment brands and chose four models to test ourselves. During our research and testing process, we evaluate each bike’s reviews and key specifications, along with the following criteria.

• Features: First, we look at each bike’s features—whether that’s pre-set workout programs, built-in fans, or third-party app integration. We prioritize bikes that offer easy-to-use features that make workouts more effective and enjoyable. 
• Performance: Next, while using the bike, we consider how easy it is to navigate the basic controls and more advanced features. We note whether adjusting the seat is easy and can be done while exercising. We evaluate if the bike’s operation is smooth and quiet. We also note what metrics the bike measures or fails to measure, as well as whether workouts were varied enough for a variety of exercise needs and fitness levels.
• Adjustability: Adjustability is key to ensuring a comfortable and effective workout. During our test, we assess whether the seat and handlebars can be adjusted quickly and easily for different users. Does the adjustability affect the bike’s usability by making it easier or harder to use? We select bikes with easily adjustable seats, backrests, handlebars, and foot cages to accommodate users of different heights. 
• Sturdiness: Finding a sturdy bike is non-negotiable for safe riding. We exercise at varying intensity levels to evaluate the bike’s stability in different scenarios. We also note how smoothly the bike handles transitions of intensity or speed during a workout. We only recommend bikes with strong frames, durable materials, and added stability features like adjustable feet.
• Comfort: If you’re uncomfortable while riding, you’ll be less likely to return to your workout the next time. We evaluate a bike’s comfort by noting the plushness and overall size of the seat and whether the seat, backrest, and handles are ergonomically designed. While using the bike, does the design and positioning reduce discomfort, like back or wrist pain? Does the bike accommodate different user heights and body types? Do the foot straps fit comfortably? Or are they tight and constricting?
• Value: Finally, after we’ve used each bike multiple times, we look at its price to determine the overall value. Considering each of the above-tested categories, bikes that we think are worth the money earn high scores. We only recommend bikes we’d personally purchase or recommend to a friend. 

Our Experts

We consulted with experts while researching and reporting on recumbent bikes. Some, like Spear, helped us determine which key features set the best bikes apart. Others, like Furr, offered insights into how to use and evaluate the bikes properly. While we choose products independently, we refer to expert guidance to help inform our decisions: 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Does a recumbent bike give you a good workout? 

Yes, recumbent bikes are a low-impact way to improve cardiovascular fitness and strengthen lower body muscles. They are especially effective if you have joint or back issues since how you sit on them puts less strain and stress on your body. 

Is an upright exercise bike or a recumbent bike better for me? 

Upright bikes and recumbent bikes are good for improving your fitness, but there are differences in how you sit and how it affects your body. Upright bikes offer a more intense workout, while recumbent bikes are easier on your joints and more accessible if you have back problems. 

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Jarrod Nobbe is a certified strength and conditioning specialist with a Master’s in Sports Performance. He has dedicated years to researching and teaching various fitness modalities to clients and athletes, always promoting the importance of an active lifestyle. He is a Verywell Fit writer with experience writing and reporting on fitness accessories and equipment. He regularly uses a recumbent exercise bike in his own workout routine and when training clients.