The Best Exercise Bikes in 2023, According to Fitness Trainers

Pros

• The industry standard exercise bike
• Infinite resistance levels
• Comfortable ride
• Quiet, high-resistance fan
• Durable weight capacity
• Wheels make for easy storage

Like a lot of exercise equipment, you often get what you pay for. The more you’re willing to spend, the more features you’re likely to score. Case in point: This flagship exercise bike from Schwinn Fitness.

“The Schwinn AD7 Aidryne is one of the best exercise bikes you can buy, and it’s got the features and results to back that up. The wind-resistance nature of the bike helps to give you a full-body cardio workout, and with an extra-padded, oversized seat, this will be a comfortable ride (if you choose to remain seated),” says Mitchell.

“And while this bike is a little expensive, you can also feel comfortable in the quality of the product you’re investing in. After all, this is Schwinn. That’s a name in bikes that has always meant something—you can always appreciate the comfort in buying a solid product from a legacy brand.”

If budget is a concern, the Airdyne AD6 offers many of the same features for $400 less.

What do buyers say? Out of more than 3,400 Amazon reviews, 90% recommend the Schwinn Fitness AD7 Airdyne Bike with at least a 4-star rating.

Read more: Best Air Bike

Concept2 has a track record of building serious at-home gym equipment. The brand’s RowErg Indoor Rowing Machine was our pick for this year’s best indoor rowing machine. So, too, with the BikeErg for many of the same reasons:

“The BikeErg was designed with traditional cyclists in mind. Now if you’re wondering if the BikeErg still delivers a killer workout, the answer is a resounding, YES!” says Mitchell. “Concept 2 builds very durable and effective equipment like Model D Rower (which is by far my favorite) and now the company has applied those principles to a bike. The BikeErg isn’t the most aesthetically pleasing design, but it is made to take a beating and keep on going.”

He adds, “We have over 1M meters on the one that we’ve been testing for a few years and it still performs like it did on day one without any maintenance. Now that’s special.”

What do buyers say? Out of more than 250 Amazon reviews, 97% recommend the Concept2 BikeErg 2900 Stationary Exercise Bike with at least a 4-star rating.

Read more: Best Fitness Deals

Peloton’s latest bike, the Bike+, is like the original Peloton Bike—but better in every way. It has an amazing 24-inch-wide HD touchscreen, with an easily adjustable seat and handlebar settings. It’s arguably the most high-tech, connected exercise bike on the market—with a sky-high price tag to match.

What truly sets the Bike+ apart, as with all Peloton products, is the library of professional, trainer-guided classes. Novices and expert cyclists alike can learn and grow their training and their fitness level by pushing themselves harder than they might be inclined to on their own. With next-gen features like auto-follow—when the trainer suggests you make resistance adjustments, Bike+ automatically does so—it’s never been easier to take your training to the next level.

Peloton also offers a completely free in-home trial for 30 days. That includes free delivery and setup and, if you decide to return it, free pickup and return.

What do buyers say? “I truly love the Peloton Bike+ … It was absolutely worth every penny because I am working out again and enjoying it which is something I never though I could do,” said a OnePeloton.com reviewer.

Read more: Peloton Bike+ Review

“Looking for the Peloton experience without the Peloton price? Look no further than the NordicTrack Commercial Studio Cycle (the NordicTrack is still pricey, just not Peloton pricey),” says Mitchell. In fact, it’s actually $1,000 less than Peloton’s flagship Bike+ exercise bike, while loaded with many of the same features, including a 22-inch HD touchscreen display and a rich library of on-demand studio classes.

“While we have found the classes on the NordicTrack aren’t quite as engaging as Peloton’s, the NordicTrack bike is actually superior in many ways to Peloton’s. Overall, it’s still a great experience and a really nice bike.”

The one downside is that this exercise bike is heavy. At more than 200 pounds, it’s a bear to move in and out of place. If you’re someone without the space to keep it setup permanently, this might be an issue.

What do buyers say? Out of more than 4,000 Amazon reviews, 83% recommend the NordicTrack Commercial S22i Studio Cycle with at least a 4-star rating.

Read more: Best Peloton Bike Alternatives

“And the winner for most popular goes to… the Assault AirBike. The Assault Bike is so beloved largely because it’s been used in the CrossFit Games and in a ton of different CrossFit Affiliate Gyms,” says Mitchell. “Ultimately, the Assault AirBike has a super solid design with an oversized fan and chain drive system. Although we prefer a belt drive due to its lack of maintenance, this is a proven design that just works; it’s also priced pretty well compared to the competition.”

What do buyers say? Out of more than 2,000 Amazon reviews, 94% recommend the AssaultFitness AirBike Classic with at least a 4-star rating.

Read more: Air Bike vs. Spin Bike

This lesser-known brand flies under the radar in the world of indoor exercise bikes. But, Mitchell confirms they’re a great buy.

“The YOSUDA. Haven’t you heard of it? That’s probably because the company only makes exercise bikes. This is a super quiet, belt-driven bike that won’t drown out the TV while you’re getting in your afternoon workout,” says Mitchell.

“Overall, the YOSUDA is a good bike with a killer 30-day full refund guarantee and 1-year free parts replacement warranty. While this bike is definitely made with the budget-conscious in mind, it’s also one of the most highly rated on Amazon.”

And if you really want to splurge, the company released a new model with upgraded magnetic resistance for around $80 more.

What do buyers say? Out of more than 21,000 Amazon reviews, 88% recommend the YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike with at least a 4-star rating

Pros

• Beautiful 22-inch HD touchscreen
• Rich library of pro trainer-led cycling classes
• Well suited for beginner and veteran cyclists
• Compact footprint
• Free delivery and setup
• 30-day in-home trial with full refund guarantee
• Affordable alternative to Peloton Bike+ ….

If you don’t have nearly $2,500 to splash out on Peloton’s flagship Bike+, you’re not alone. But, if you’re still keen to get most of the same features in a premium indoor cycle, Peloton’s OG Bike exercise bike is your man.

“The bike that needs no introduction, the Peloton! Yes, we’ve all seen the commercials… it’s not just hype, this bike is revolutionary and has changed the industry,” says Mitchell. “Is it pricey? Yes. Do you get what you pay for? Yes. Is it one of the most immersive training experiences you’ll find from the comfort of your home? Yes. Yes. Yes.”

He continues, “The reason we recommend the Peloton Bike is not just because it’s built extremely well, but because of the experience that drives nearly every rider to work out more than they would without the live classes. If you struggle to exercise at home and have the money to spend, Peloton is truly your best option.”

What do buyer say? “I’ve had my bike for nearly 3 weeks and I can say that I’m falling in love! I’m really enjoying the experience and starting to find myself … trying to figure out when I can wedge in a ride for 30 minutes,” said one OnePeloton.com reviewer.

Read more: Best Folding Exercise Bikes

Pros

• 22” HD touchscreen display with 180° flip rotation
• Comfortable, yet supportive competition-style seat
• 32 levels of indexing resistance
• Bluetooth-enabled
• Compact design fits in small spaces
• Full 30-day return policy

Echelon is looking to give Peloton a run for its money. The Echelon Connect Bike EX-7s offers many of the same features as Peloton’s Bike and Bike+, including a generous, 22-inch HD touchscreen display with access to a deep library of live and on-demand classes 24/7 via the monthly FitPass subscription. Here, riders can connect with world-class instructors and even compete with other riders via social media apps.

The elevated bullhorn handlebars with elbow rests and competition-style seat are designed to be comfortable, yet supportive for long and intense cycling sessions. A full 32 levels of indexing resistance allows you to dial in the exact resistance that matches your fitness and training goals.

What do buyers say? “This is by far the best purchase for exercise equipment I ever made,” said one EchelonFit.com reviewer.

Read more: Best Cardio Machines

“Just when you thought the Assault AirBike couldn’t get any better, they go and upgrade! Think, the same super solid design and features of the original AirBike just more… elite,” says Mitchell. “Honestly, there isn’t a huge difference in terms of function between the Elite and original Assault AirBike, but the frame on the Elite is much heavier and it’s an overall better bike, albeit at a significantly higher price.”

On top of that, Mitchell adds, “The Assault AirBike Elite does offer a much more comfortable ride than its less elite brother, so your backside may thank you for upgrading (your wallet, on the other hand, may not).”

What do buyers say? “I was first introduced to the Assaultbike classic in the gym at work. The Elite is far superior!” said one Amazon reviewer.

Pros

• Large, whisper-quiet fan
• Smooth ride
• Extremely durable, overbuilt construction
• Low-maintenance belt drive system
• High contrast LCD console
• 1-inch polyurethane wheels make for easy moving

“Looking for a bike that is the most likely to survive the apocalypse? Rogue has definitely made an end-times exerciser with this one,” says Mitchell. “The Rogue Echo Bike is a well-built machine that is basically a deconstructed version of a Rogue Squat Rack. With its combined rock-solid foundation and smooth ride, it’s at the top of the game. The bike uses a belt drive system that requires virtually no maintenance and a monitor that tracks useful metrics.”

He also adds, “The bike is heavy, so be aware of this if you plan to move it. That said, there are wheels on the front that make it easier to do so. I’ve reviewed the Echo Bike in-depth and it is without a doubt one of the best air bikes available.”

What do buyers say? “… very sturdy and was very easy to put together as it included all the tools needed in the box. I highly recommend it,” said one RogueFitness.com reviewer.

Like Mitchell said, these days, there are a ton of exercise bikes on the market. Your options range from $300, barebones cycles with few features to high-end, uber-connected models from the likes of Peloton that cost upwards of $2,500. Deciding on the right one can seem daunting. But, that variety also means, if you’re looking to get into indoor cycling, there’s a good chance that there’s a perfect bike out there just for you. Here’s what we recommend considering when shopping for the best exercise bike (for you):

Resistance: The resistance mechanism is the heart of any indoor exercise bike, and the one thing that’s guaranteed to make you simultaneously love and hate your new cycle. It’s also what dictates how quiet and smooth the ride is. Many mid-tier to premium bikes nowadays use magnetic resistance. It’s more expensive, but also makes for an ultra-smooth, whisper-quiet ride. High-end bike makers like Peloton can also use this type of resistance to seamlessly integrate into their online classes. Entry-level and budget exercise bikes, on the other hand, often use traditional air resistance or mechanical flywheels with friction for resistance.

Connectivity: Exercise bikes have come a long way in the last decade. Modern bikes feature WiFi connectivity that allows for incredible integration with online courses. Trainers can see your progression, your form, and your activity level in real-time, allowing them to fine-tune your level of training. Built-in Bluetooth is another nice-to-have feature that allows you to, for example, pair wireless headphones or mobile fitness apps with your bike.

Pedal and footwear compatibility: Most entry-level bikes and some mid-tier models feature a flat pedal or a pedal with a simple toe cage—either is compatible with almost any shoe or sneaker you care to wear. But, higher-end exercise bikes (like Peloton) require special Delta or SPD-compatible cycling cleats. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s website to see if this is something to consider.

Tablet or screen mount: This may or may not be a must-have for you. It’s all a matter of personal preference. If you like to watch movies, YouTube, Netflix, etc. while working out, you may want a bike with a built-in spot to stash your device. A tablet or screen mount also makes it easier to watch instructor-led classes too.

A 2019 study showed that regular use of an exercise bike—alone or combined with strength training—can have a positive impact aerobic capacity in as little as 3 months. Researchers also concluded that, like other forms of regular cardio, using an exercise bike can also contribute to a reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure—especially when combined with a heart-healthy diet.

Indoor cycling is also a low-impact form a cardio, meaning it results in less pressure on the joints compared to activities like running or jumping. Cycling is not a load-bearing exercise, says Kate Heelan, Ph.D., a professor of exercise science at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. This helps to minimize the risk of injury caused by malalignment, loss of balance, etc. as you get stronger.

Read more: Exercise Machines Guide

Cycling is an amazing way to get in shape and stay healthy, there’s no doubt about it. But when it comes to choosing between indoor and outdoor cycling, what are the real differences?

For starters, there’s the convenience factor. Indoor cycling is ideal for those who are short on time or live in regions where the terrain or weather may limit getting a ride in outdoors. It can be much easier to hop on an indoor bike at home or at the gym and get a great workout without having to worry about traffic, the environment, or safety concerns.

And in terms of calorie burn and cardiovascular benefits, both indoor and outdoor cycling carry the same potentials. Outdoor cycling typically offers a more varied terrain, which can lead to a more intense workout and a deeper burn overall.

On the other hand, indoor cycling provides the ability to customize intensity via resistance levels. Meaning depending on how you challenge yourself, it can be much harder or easier than an outdoor ride. Indoor cycling also offers more of an ability to attack your specific training goals, such as interval training or endurance training. Plus, many indoor bikes have built-in heart rate monitors, allowing you to track your effort and progress.

Many indoor bikes offer an interactive component now, too, like instructor-led classes and competitive leaderboards, which can be a great way to stay motivated and challenge yourself. These classes also provide a sense of community and support to stay motivated and hungry, even when you’re working out alone.

Yes, exercise bikes can be a great tool for weight loss. They provide a fully-body yet low-impact cardio workout that can help you burn calories, and with regular use, lose weight. A rigorous indoor cycling session can increase your heart rate, burn fat, and build lean muscle mass, which can help you improve your overall health overtime.

But they key here, as with reaping benefits from any form of intentional physical activity, is consistency. If you’re new to exercise or new to an exercise bike, start slow. You can always increase the intensity of your workout throughout a session or over time, by adjusting the resistance or increasing your speed, to help you burn more calories and continue to see progress.

Exercise bikes are generally considered to be a low-impact form of exercise, meaning that they are less likely to cause pains and strains compared to other forms of exercise. But it’s still important to take precautions to avoid the potential of injury. Here are some tips to help you stay safe on an exercise bike:

Adjust the bike to fit your body: Make sure the seat height, handlebar height, and distance between the seat and handlebars are adjusted to fit your body. This will help you maintain proper form and reduce the risk of injury from malalignment.

Warm up before your workout: Spend 5-10 minutes warming up before you start your workout. This can include gentle pedaling or stretching to help increase blood flow to your muscles and loosen up.

Use proper form: Maintain proper form while pedaling, keeping your back straight and your core engaged. Avoid leaning too far forward or back, which can put undue stress on your back and neck.

Increase resistance gradually: If you’re new to exercise or returning from an injury, start with a low intensity session and gradually increase your workout over time. This will help you avoid overuse injuries and allow your body to adapt to the demands of indoor cycling.

Take breaks and listen to your body: If you feel any pain or discomfort while using the exercise bike, take a break and assess the situation. If the pain persists, stop your workout and consult with a healthcare professional.

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workout to help prevent dehydration.

You’re probably more familiar with spin bikes, thanks in no small part to the market-dominating influence of brands like Peloton and SoulCycle. Designed to replicate the experience of outdoor cycling indoors, a spin bike typically requires you to clip into pedals and lean into static handlebars. But instead of resistance coming from gears and terrain, the ride is controlled manually by a knob that operates either standard friction brakes or (in the case of Peloton and other high-tech bikes) magnetic brakes. If you’ve ever taken a spin class or own a Peloton, Myx, or other indoor bike with a touchscreen and dedicated streaming service, this is the kind of bike you’ve used.

Air bikes are a different beast. Resistance is created not by a braking system but rather by a giant fan that takes the place of a front wheel. The harder you pedal and the more effort you put into pushing and pulling the handles—another difference between these and spin bikes—the greater the air resistance becomes. That resistance builds quickly. Indeed, some people to refer to air bikes as “misery machines.”

If you plan to do aerobic-based HIIT—or want to add an upper-body element to your cardio workout—the air bike is your jam. The implement is designed for total-body, high intensity interval training—not steady-state cycling or cardio workouts that combine steady-state and intervals, such as a “HIIT and hills” session.

If those steady state workouts are your goal, hop on a spin bike and get ready to pedal. But no matter which one you choose, you can count on a heart-pounding sweat session that can increase your VO2max and cardiovascular endurance—and burn tons of calories.

No matter what exercise bike you choose to ride on, adjusting the handlebars and seat to the proper fit should always be step one. This helps to maximize the power you can drive into the pedals and improve stability, while also minimizing the risk of injury from misalignment.

Seat height: Stand next to the bike, adjust the seat so that it’s aligned with your hipbone. (Which can be located by placing your hands at your waist, then moving hands downwards until you feel a bony protrusion under your fingers on the front of your body.)

Once you’ve adjusted your seat height, sit on the bike and rest your feet on the pedals (without clipping in). Your knee should be able to completely straighten when the pedal is in the bottom most position, keeping a subtle 5 to 10 degree bend (as to not lock out the knee joint). If the tip of your toes can touch the ground when you take your foot off the pedal, that’s a good indication that the seat is at the right height.

Seat distance: While on the bike, position your hands on the front of the handlebars and pedal until both knees are bent and your feet are at an equidistant from the ground. Then look down. If your knee is far ahead of your foot, move the seat backward slightly from the handlebars; if it’s too far back, slide the seat toward the handlebars a bit.

Handlebar height: Unlike the position of the seat, which is dictated by the length of your legs, handlebar height is completely dependent on what feels most comfortable for you. The general rule of thumb being that your elbows should be slightly bent (not locked out) and your shoulders relaxed. Adjust the handlebars by sitting up straight and extending your arms out in front of you to find the height that allows you to maintain a neutral spine position. If you start to round your back or feel too much weight in your shoulders, adjust until you strike a position that feels good to you.

Over the years, Men’s Health’s fitness editors, as well as key fitness trainers from both MH’s Advisory board and MH’s Strength in Diversity Initiative, have taken great care in researching and evaluating the a wide pool of exercise bikes. Some MH editors and collaborators spent hours of hands-on time testing exercise bikes for durability, quality, and training efficiency, while others scoured the internet to compile and consider reviews, specs, and more. Ultimately, we ended up with the above list that represents our top picks for the best exercise bikes to shop in 2023.