by James - This article may contain affiliate links.
If you suffer from lower back pain or feel uncomfortable using a traditional stationary bike, then a recumbent exercise bike is the best option for you. Most trainers do not like using upright bikes since they put pressure and strain on the back, shoulders, and other joints. Also, they are hard to use for overweight people or seniors.
The advantage of a recumbent stationary bike is that they come with an ergonomic design and back support system that provide a sitting position that avoids stress on joints making working out more comfortable.
So, even if you have problems with your lower body, you can use it safely. You can enjoy the cardio, health, fat-burning benefits of cycling in the comfort of your home.
Overall, it is a beneficial choice for anyone who wants to get fit at home comfortably.
On this article, you will find everything about recumbent exercise bike equipment: comparison, reviews, and tips for buying one.
Contents
- 1 Recumbent Exercise Bikes Comparison
- 2 Recumbent Exercise Bikes In-Depth Review
- 2.1 1. Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike with Resistance ME-709 – BEST OVERALL
- 2.2 2. EXERPEUTIC 900XL Recumbent Exercise Bike with Pulse
- 2.3 3. EXERPEUTIC 400XL Foldable Recumbent Bike
- 2.4 4. Nautilus R618 Recumbent Bike
- 2.5 5. Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike
- 2.6 6. Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike
- 2.7 7. Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike
- 3 Buying Guide
- 4 Conclusion
Recumbent Exercise Bikes Comparison
1. Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike with Resistance ME-709 – BEST OVERALL
Features heavy-duty and solid construction for maximum mobility.
- Step-through design and weight
- Eight resistance levels, counterbalanced pedals, and padded seat
- Easy-to-read computer screen
2. EXERPEUTIC 900XL Recumbent Exercise Bike with Pulse
Offers a challenging cardiovascular workout while keeping your back and joints comfortable.
- Large, oversized seat cushion and backrest
- Eight-level magnetic tension system
- Quiet operation and transportation wheels
3. EXERPEUTIC 400XL Foldable Recumbent Bike
Delivers adjustable desks for easy entry and exit.
- Foldable recumbent bike exercise
- Has a quiet V-belt double-drive transmission technology
- Large seat cushion and backrest
4. Nautilus R618 Recumbent Bike
Automatically adjusts to your speed while working out.
- Includes an enhanced Bluetooth connectivity
- Tracks your distance, calories, time, and so on
- Comfortable ride with its 3-piece chrome crank system
5. Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike
Keeps you updated on your fitness goals.
- Dual-track two LCD-window systems for tracking performance
- Exports data and goal tracks
- Encompasses 25 levels of resistance
6. Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike
Offers high-speed inertia perimeter for smooth workouts.
- Up to 13 different display feedback
- Has 22 programs and 2 user settings
- Encompasses 20 levels of resistance
7. Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike
Allows natural hand positioning while completing workouts.
- Fast, reliable, and quiet magnetic system
- Has 8 levels of adjustable manual resistance
- Includes heart rate sensors
Recumbent Exercise Bikes In-Depth Review
1. Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike with Resistance ME-709 – BEST OVERALL
Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike ME-709 has a 2-inch 14-gauge molded ABS steel tubing. The frame has a dual-tone painted and durable powder coat finish. It has a weight capacity of 300 lbs. and measures 25″ H x 55.5″ W x 37.5″ D.
You are able to perform a number of exercises on this recumbent cycle similar to larger and more expensive bikes. The exercises that are done on this bike help firm and tone your physique.
It also increases cardiovascular endurance as you burn calories. As you work out, your legs are extended to the front rather than under your body; hence, reducing the pressure on the joints.
Marcy ME-709 offers safety features with its design. The bike is safe for heavy cyclists without the fear of tripping over. It stays stable even with workouts performed under a high-resistance level.
You’ll also love its compact and sleek design; you can easily store Marcy ME-709 anywhere since it does not take much space.
The step-through frame design allows easy entry and exit from the bicycle, as there is a gap in between the armrest that provides access by bigger people.
Meanwhile, the pedals are counterbalanced to enable one to have a smooth pedaling experience and a textured surface for grip. It also has a strap that secures the feet in place. Designed to be used with athletic shoes.
PROS
- Contains 8 levels of preset magnetic resistance, which delivers an exceptionally smooth, quiet ride. The level change is done manually
- Has a large console display that tracks distance, speed, time as well as calories burned
- Has a high-density foam seat that offers comfort and support. Adjustable to accommodate any body size
- Easy-to-adjust tension tightening knob for the different fitness levels
- Contoured foam covered handlebars for easy grip
- Wheels for easy transport and moving around
CONS
- The disadvantage of this bike is that it doesn’t come with preset workout programs, but you can always check out appropriate workouts on YouTube.
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
This recumbent exercise bike has positive reviews from people who have used it. They say that it is very easy and comfortable to work out. It’s also best for a home gym because almost anyone, regardless of their weight, can use it.
2. EXERPEUTIC 900XL Recumbent Exercise Bike with Pulse
This is a recumbent stationary bicycle that offers cardiovascular workouts with minimal joint and back stress. You can cycle for hours without feeling any discomfort that you may experience in an upright bicycle, thanks to its padded seat, which minimizes pressure on your joints.
The dimension of this recumbent exercise bike is 34″ H x 22″ W x 54″ L and supports users up to 300 lbs.
Beginners and advanced users feel challenged when they use this bike for low impact exercise. They can choose their level of endurance and change resistance level by only turning its knob.
It also has an exceptional design intended to fit different cyclists. In fact, the seat is adjustable to accommodate people from 5’6″ to 6’3″ tall.
What you’ll love about EXERPEUTIC 900CXL is it’s easy to move around the house. When you are pedaling, comfort is guaranteed. The pedals are soft enough that you don’t even have to wear shoes while on it.
Lastly, it contains 8 magnetic resistance, which does not get in the way as you exercise. It’s also responsible for the quietness of the bike. The best part? You can listen to music or watch TV while working out.
PROS
- Exerpeutic 900XL has a large, easy-to-read LCD, which indicates the distance, calories burned, speed, time, and pulse information
- Implements an 8-level magnetic tension control system that allows one to customize their ride to challenge them
- Precision-balanced flywheel, a smooth torque cranking system, and V-belt drive that provides a smooth, quiet operation
- Hand pulse sensors which monitor the heart rate at the handgrips
- Oversized padded seat cushion and backrest for comfort
- Extended leg stabilizers to prevent movement of the machine even in the most strenuous exercises
- Transportation wheels for easy mobility
- Large pedals that have straps to prevent foot slippage
CONS
- The downside of this machine is that it has to be set manually, but this is quite common for such equipment with a low price
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
There are a lot of positive customer reviews as customers love this stationary recumbent bike because it is very comfortable to use. Its design makes you want to exercise more as you can get in and off it easily, Exerpeutic 900xl stays in place. It can accommodate a broad range of users.
3. EXERPEUTIC 400XL Foldable Recumbent Bike
This indoor recumbent bike provides you with the assurance of a really good workout because it has 8 magnetic resistance levels, ranging from easy to hard, which makes it an ideal workout tool for people of all fitness levels.
It is very comfortable, allowing you to burn calories, tone, lose fat, and build muscles in various positions. You could actually read a book, listen to music, or watch TV!
Nonetheless, it has a dimension of 46″ H x 19″ W x 33″ L and supports up to 300 lbs. The Exerpeutic 400XL compact recumbent stationary bike folds up, so it is very easy to store.
Actually, it can fit into a closet or a corner in your house, making sure that you enjoy the benefits of a good workout without dedicating an entire room to the exercise equipment.
What’s more, it has a semi-recumbent design for easy entry and exit. Ideal for people who don’t like upright bikes or those recovering from injury.
PROS
- Large LCD display, which provides data for speed, time, calories burned, distance, and pulse
- Leg stabilizers for safe operation when the bike is unfolded
- It can be folded to at least half its size. It’s so uniquely compact
- Hand pulse sensors on the handlebars which target the heart rate zone
- Large seat cushion and backrest for users of any size
- Transportation wheels for easy mobility
CONS
- Would be better if the Exerpeutic 400XL comes with a wearable chest strap for monitoring the heart rate while working out. However, the bike has handgrip sensors that are able to monitor pulse very effectively
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
The Exerpeutic 400XL folding recumbent exercise bike has received a lot of positive reviews from customers. Users love its ease of assembly, recumbent design, as well as its foldable nature.
4. Nautilus R618 Recumbent Bike
The Nautilus R614 Commercial Recumbent Bike is a great home workout equipment for people of all fitness levels, including those recovering from injuries.
Ideally, you will enjoy working out in an extremely comfortable position, as you burn calories, build muscles, lose weight, and tone your body.
It comes with transport wheels for ease of mobility. This means that you can use the bike in a certain room in your house and store it in a different room all together with a lot of ease.
Besides, it comes with 22 workout programs, which include 9 profile programs, 8 heart rate programs with custom settings, 2 fitness test programs, 2 user profiles, and a quick start.
You’ll also love its high inertia, high-speed drive system with a weighted flywheel for very smooth, quiet, and consistent workouts.
Lastly, the exercise bike features a 3-speed adjustable cooling fan to keep you cool during a workout.
PROS
- Features 20 resistance levels for a very wide range of workout intensity
- Dual-track two blue backlit LCD window system
- Vented seat bottom and back for more comfort when working out
- Hand pulse sensors on the handlebars which target the heart rate zone
- The handlebars grips have a pulse monitor
- It features in-console speakers with MP3 or iPod player input port
- Media shelf to place a laptop or tablet for a very enjoyable workout experience while you pedal
- It has acoustic chamber speakers for quality big sound
CONS
- It would be great if this sit down stationary bike comes with the ability to use a chest strap. However, the Nautilus R614 has a heart rate monitoring through the handgrips
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
Lots of customers rated and loved Nautilus Recumbent Bike Series, most specifically the R618. It provides them a great platform for working out their muscles at their home’s convenience.
5. Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike
If you are searching for a professional bike that is packed with tons of programs and several other extras, the Schwinn 270 recumbent bike is for you.
It comes with 29 programs and 25 levels of resistance making it suitable for everyone in your family. Customers love it for its inbuilt speakers, comfortable seat, and adjustment options. It is one of the best home exercise bikes in my opinion.
Moreover, the item dimension is 64 x 27 x 50 inches and comes in black color.
PROS
- Dual-track two-LCD window systems
- Allows you to track different display feedback
- Implements Schwinn Connect goal tracking and data export
- Contains a total of 29 programs, 4 user settings, and goal tracking
- Includes 25 levels of resistance
- High-speed inertia perimeter for smooth and quiet operation
- Has a USB charging port
CONS
- The first months of use might be a little nosy
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
Customers loved Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike on Amazon because of its special and great features.
6. Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike
The Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike offers a wide array of workout options that fit into almost anyone’s budget and fitness goals. With 22 programmed workouts, it allows you to track your performance conveniently.
Included in this program are 2 fitness tests (1 beginner, 1 advanced), 9 profile programs, 8 heart rate control (4 beginners, 4 advanced), 2 custom user-defined, 1 quick start, and other additional features.
I think it’s one of the most comfortable recumbent exercise bikes someone can invest in.
It lets you choose the intensity of your workout, from fun to extreme workouts. Nevertheless, it has two LCD window system that allows you to monitor 13 different feedbacks on one display.
In terms of comfortability, Schwinn 230 delivers. For instance, it has a vented seat back combined with a vented seat bottom with a contoured leg area to make the workout comfortable (lumbar support).
Lastly, the dimension of this bike is 64 x 27.7 x 49.9 inches. I would highly recommend the Schwinn 230 if you are looking to lose weight and get toned, all with maximum comfort. It is a great bike that gives enjoyable exercises as well as more intense workouts.
PROS
- Dual-track two-LCD window systems
- A walk through frame for ease of access
- Implements Schwinn Connect goal tracking and data export
- Transport wheels, 3-speed fan, a side-mounted water bottle holder
- A slider seat rail system with a fore and aft seat adjustment, and a quick and easy lever
- High-speed inertia perimeter for smooth and quiet operation
- 10-year warranty on frame, 2-year mechanical warranty, 1-year electrical warranty, 6-month warranty on wear items, 90 days labor warranty
- Acoustic chamber speakers for quality sound
CONS
- The user manual of the Schwinn 230 is not very clear. However, you can download or order an additional guide to be able to figure out the console programming
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
It has received very positive reviews from customers as it offers everything you need from a great bike at a lower price than the other recumbent bikes within its price range.
7. Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike
This ergonomically designed bike helps you perform workouts, burn calories, tone muscles, and lose weight with maximum comfort–a great thanks to its recumbent position.
You are able to work out and at the same time can enjoy a book or a movie on TV! Moreover, the dimension of this product is 34″ H x 24″ W x 53″ L and has a weight capacity of 220 lbs.
This bike comes with an adjustable magnetic resistance system with eight different levels, which helps adjust the intensity of your workout.
The pedals on the Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike allow users to pedal forward and backward, giving them the opportunity of working out all the muscles of their thighs and legs without using other equipment.
The bike comes with two sets of handlebars, one at the side of the seat, and the second at the front by the console. Both sets of handlebars are well covered to provide comfort and a good grip even if you have sweaty hands.
Besides, the magnetic resistance it comes with is great as it does not require maintenance and keeps the pedaling motion very smooth.
PROS
- Comes in a striking pink hue, making it very attractive
- Easy to read LCD screen which displays distance, speed, time, calories burned, and hand pulse
- Steel frame with stabilizers that keep it from wobbling
- It features a cushioned back and seat for maximum comfort
- Equipped with a heart rate sensor
- The foot pedals are textured to provide a good grip to keep your feet in place
- 10-year warranty on frame, 2-year mechanical warranty, 1-year electrical warranty, 6-month warranty on wear items, 90 days labor warranty
CONS
- At first, it may be a little difficult to adjust the straps on the foot pedals, as these are plastic that has holes in them that you need to fit onto a tab on the pedal. However, with time the plastic softens up and it gets much easier. It is also possible to use the pedals without the straps as slipping off them is unlikely if the bike has been properly adjusted to your height
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
Received great reviews from customers, which gives a clear indication that it is very popular. It has an attractive color and meets a lot of customer expectations for great cardio workouts.
Buying Guide
What are recumbent stationary exercise bikes good for?
- Cardiovascular benefitsUsing a recumbent exercise bike several times a week will strengthen your lungs and heart. Also, it reduces the risk of various illnesses associated with being overweight or having a sedentary lifestyle.
- Weight lossUsing a seated exercise bike with proper nutrition can help you lose weight. This type of workout burns calories efficiently in a comfortable way.
- JointsEven if you have lower limb joint problems, this type of training is the safest, but always consult with your doctor before trying. Also, it is useful rehabilitation equipment for those who had lower-body injuries. They are also the best type of exercise bikes for seniors.
Related: Exercise bikes recumbent vs upright
What to look for when buying one?
There are a lot of models you can choose from in a wide price range. As with everything, the expensive the product, the more it offers features and functions.
Here are few things to pay attention to before buying one.
- Sturdy, adjustable, and comfortable seat. There are models with wider or narrower and harder or softer seats. Pick one that you like cycling on. Also, the adjustable seat is important for setting the machine based on your preference.
- Resistance. There are bikes with only a few levels while others support dozens. If you want to change the resistance level during training, which is recommended for interval training), you need to choose one with higher levels offered.
- Resistance type. The magnetic type is better since it produces lesser noise compared to air types.
- Programming. The best recumbent bike for home comes with built-in programs. These programs let you have personalized workouts based on fitness level, age, gender, and weight. Also, there are heart rate controlled workout programs.
- Display. This is a feature that shows information about your cycling workouts, such as speed, distance, time, burned calories, revolutions per minute (RPM), and so on.
- Heart-rate monitor. Cheaper models do not usually come with this beneficial feature. With its help, you can exercise in a safe zone, or you can use programs based on heart rate, leading to more efficient training.
- Weight limit. Recumbent stationary bicycles can handle more weight than upright ones. That is why they are more suitable for overweight people. But, do not forget to check the weight limit.
- Pedals. Avoid bikes with narrow pedals and those without strapping. If they are too narrow and unable to hold your feet, it will be uncomfortable in the long run.
- Storage. The most professional models are foldable. If you live in an apartment, keep the storage feature in mind when you buy one of them.
How to use it efficiently?
Using recumbent bicycles for adults is pretty straightforward. Just set the level of the program, and you are ready to go. However, here are a few tips, if you have not tried it yet. Check them here.
Which is the best buy?
Considering the features and user experience, Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike is the winner for me. But if the price is the main point, all the other recumbent exercise machines are perfect for an average user.
Conclusion
While this cardio equipment provides a safe way to have cardio exercises at home, it does not mean it’s only for beginners, seniors, or ones with health problems. The modern recumbent exercise bicycles come with various functions and levels to make your workouts more challenging and personalized so that they can be beneficial for those at a better fitness level.
Have you got any questions? Need help? Drop a comment below and we’ll help you.
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Last update on 2023-09-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
I’ve always been interested in recumbent bikes, so I really appreciate this review. Thanks for the tips on what to look for — I wouldn’t have thought about pedal width! I would say Shwinn 230 sounds good to me as well! Do you have one?
To tell the truth, I haven’t got, but my mother has. She loves it. She sits a lot all day, and she uses it almost every day to keep herself fit.
Are recumbent exercise bike safe to use for seniors? My mother is 60 years old and she sits rather lot, so I’m searching for her something to exercise with.
Absolutely. It is one of the most recommended workout for seniors, since it is not so hard, yet efficient way of exercising.
Thank you very much for the detailed review about these bikes. I’d like to know if they come with free shipping or not. You know these bikes are not so cheap and I’d like to know the extra costs.
If you live in the USA, and you order from Amazon, almost always the shipping is free.