Spinning is one of the most popular exercises in America. A lot of people think it’s a recent trend – and organized spinning classes are – but people have been riding stationary bikes for more than a century. The Titanic even had some in its exercise room!
If you’re looking to bring your spinning routine out of the gym and into your home, you’re going to need to buy one. That’s why we’ve reviewed 21 of the best spin bikes available on the internet. We’ve chosen a wide variety of functions, features, and prices, so there should be something on our list for everybody.
The best spin bike for home use is going to be different depending on your personal needs. Some people are looking for a heavy bike with lots of resistance, while others need portability and easy storage. Some people are veteran gym rats, while others are spinning because they’re recovering from an injury.
Here are the best spinning bikes that money can buy. Let’s get started!
Best Spin Bikes Available Online
1. Keiser M3i
Features
- Bundle includes: Free shipping (continental U.S. only), Media Tray, Stretch Pads, floor mat, and M Connect Display.
- Made in the USA from domestic and globally sourced materials: The M3i is the ONLY indoor bike built in the U.S., ensuring the highest quality control standards
- M Connect - The M Series Connected Computer connects seamlessly to your favorite fitness apps!
- Durability and Beauty: Simple, elegant design makes the M3i extremely durable, virtually maintenance-free, and a stunning showpiece for your home or gym
- Industry’s First V-Shape Frame: Enables M3i to mimic different road-bike frames by allowing seat and handlebars to be raised in conjunction to accommodate riders of all sizes, from 4’10”–7’ tall
The Keiser M3i Indoor Spin Bike is the best of the best and with good reason. This bike is packed full of features giving you excellent bang for your buck.
Key features:
- Extremely durable
- Very quiet while in use
- Low maintenance
- Magnetic Resistance
- Adjustable
- Computer
As you may have noticed this spin bike offers a different look or style to the standard. The flywheel of this bike is located at the back, a unique design made this way to further add to the durability. How so? Well sweat and water that may drip off you during intense workouts will land on the floor (or mat) and not on the flywheel. Is this really beneficial? From a hygienic put of view yes and also from a maintenance point of view.
The manufacturers designed this bike to be low to no maintenance – something a lot of people are looking for or wanting in their gym equipment. Finding the motivation to workout can be difficult and finding the motivation to take things apart and check everything is in place can also be a laborious task.
This bike operates with magnetic resistance – further adding to the durability and low maintenance of this machine. The magnetic resistance also means there is no need for a very heavy flywheel, meaning this spin bike is reasonably light weight and easy to move around. Further to this it also has transport wheels so you can wheel it out for a workout then easily move it back to storage.
More to the size, the dimensions of this bike are 45” (1143mm), Width 26” (660mm) and Length 49” (1245mm). The total weight is 85lbs (38.56kg).
The handlebars and seat are adjustable which means this bike can be used by all members of the family, simply set it up to your height and away you go!
The computer included with this bike tracks all the key information you would want to know including, RPM, Watts, Heart Rate, time, gear and distance travelled. The computer is also back lit meaning you’ll be able to see it in low light situations. In addition to the computer there is also bluetooth wireless with an open API for tablet and smartphone connectivity.
Pros:
- Excellent quality
- Low to no maintenance
- Easy to transport
- Smooth & quiet to use
Cons:
- Price Tag
2. Snode
Features
Binding | Misc. |
Brand | SNODE |
EAN | 0713752123803 |
EAN List | EAN List Element: 0713752123803 |
Label | SNODE |
Manufacturer | SNODE |
Package Dimensions | Height: 800; Length: 4100; Weight: 9900; Width: 3300 |
Product Group | Sports |
Product Type Name | SPORTING_GOODS |
Publisher | SNODE |
Studio | SNODE |
Title | SNODE Indoor Cycling Spin Bike Trainer - Stationary Belt Drive Exercise Bike with High Weight Capacity, Tablet Holder, LCD Monitor for Professional Home Cardio Workout(Model: 8729 Power one 2019 New) |
UPC | 713752123803 |
UPC List | UPC List Element: 713752123803 |
The SNODE Indoor Cycling Spin Bike is a quiet, well-built bike that’s perfect for beginners or veterans.
Key features:
- 40-pound flywheel
- Adjustable resistance
- Belt drive
- Multi-grip handlebar with pulse monitor
- Console tracks distance and calories burned
- SPD clip pedals
This bike has a 40-pound flywheel, which is right in the middle of the road in terms of weight. This makes it challenging enough for a long, sweaty workout, but forgiving enough for beginners to get in on the game. The braking system is a combination of a rubber belt and a wool sheath on the wheel. Tension can be adjusted easily with a knob that’s located right between your knees.
The handlebar has a multi-grip design, so you can change up your grip while you’re changing positions. The grips include a pulse monitor for calorie burn tracking, which you can view on the console. The display itself is a bit dim and can be hard to see in bright light. It also tracks your distance.
The belt drive is very quiet, just a soft whir even at high tension. The SPD pedals allow you to clip your feet in, increasing safety and making braking easier. There are two small roller wheels on the front, which allow you to move the machine easily when needed. This bike supports up to 280 pounds and has integrated water bottle and iPad holders.
Pros:
- Easy transport and storage
- Runs quiet
- Supports up to 280 pounds
- Highly adjustable
- Integrated water bottle holder
Cons:
- Monitor is dim
3. Sunny Pro
Sunny Pro
$249.00 in stock
3 used from $174.26
Features
- Start an in-home cardio workout with the SF-B901 Pro Indoor Cycling Bike by Sunny Health & Fitness.
- Sturdy Flywheel: The 40-pound chrome flywheel is designed to maintain momentum smoothly as you cycle on the cardio machine. Heavy flywheels support speed, stability, and consistency across your workout.
- Resistance: Increase resistance or come to a complete stop in a flash with the friction resistance knob. Use the resistance knob to increase and decrease resistance applied to the flywheel.
- Adjustable Handlebars: Ergonomic handlebars are designed to accomillimeterodate multiple riding styles while cycling on this bike for home use. Easily adjust the 2-way multi-grip handlebars, based on your height.
- Fitting & Adjustments: Tailor your riding experience to your individual height. Use the four-way adjustable seat that can be fitted to your individual leg length.
The Sunny Indoor Fitness Pro Indoor Cycling Bike is an entry-level spinning bike that’s better-engineered than most beginner bikes.
Key features:
- Adjustable seat and handlebars
- Chain drive
- 40-pound flywheel
- Emergency stop brake
- Felt pad resistance
This is a basic, beginner’s bike, but that doesn’t mean it’s badly made. On the contrary, it’s manufactured by Sunny, and the quality shows in the sturdy frame and durable handlebar padding. The flywheel weighs 40 pounds, which is light enough for most beginners but is also heavy enough to give hardcore cyclists a challenge at high resistance levels. You can buy this bike if you’ve never been spinning before, and use it for years.
The Pro Indoor Cycling Bike has an adjustment knob just below the handlebars, so you can change the resistance without having to get off the bike. That said, the brakes themselves are felt pads. This makes them quieter than magnetic resistance and cheaper than a belt brake, but the pads wear out over time and need to be replaced occasionally.
The chain drive is straightforward, but it’s relatively loud compared to other drive systems. There’s no computer for tracking your progress. Of course, you have to make some sacrifices on a budget bike, and Sunny chose to remove that feature altogether rather than go cheap. There are roller wheels on the front of the base for easy storage.
Pros:
- Easy to move and store
- Easy to access adjustment knob
- Inexpensive
Cons:
- No computer
- Brake pads wear out over time
- Loud
4. Sunny Flywheel
Sunny Flywheel
$295.49 in stock
2 used from $209.25
Features
- STATIONARY EXERCISE BIKE: The sturdy steel frame, heavy 49 lb weighted flywheel, and 275 lb maximum user weight gives this bike a rock solid build that will keep it moving ride after ride. Easily move the indoor cycle from room to room with the front-mounted transportation wheels. Stay hydrated throughout your workout. This convenient bottle holder is built into the frame for easy access.
- RESISTANCE: Resistance system gives you the experience of a realistic, real-road feeling. Push down emergency brake will bring the bike to an immediate stop
- SILENT RIDE: Experience a smooth and quiet ride with the maintenance free belt drive system which allows you to workout without interrupting your workout or anyone around you
- CUSTOMIZABILITY: 4-way adjustable seat and 2-way adjustable handlebars adapt to any user type. Use the caged pedals with straps to keep your feet in place
- BOTTLE HOLDER: Stay hydrated throughout your workout. This convenient bottle holder is built into the frame for easy access
The SF-B1002 is a heavy-duty spinning bike that’s tough enough for experts and easy on the budget.
Key features:
- 49-pound flywheel
- 275-pound weight capacity
- Belt drive
- Adjustable seat and handlebars
- Top press down brake
The 49-pound flywheel on this bike is a beast. It’s heavy enough to give even longtime riders a challenge at full resistance. That said, it may be a bit much for inexperienced riders. It has a belt drive that’s whisper-quiet and is priced reasonably enough to be considered a budget bike – albeit a high-end budget bike.
This is another Sunny, so you know the manufacturer didn’t skimp on quality. The welded frame is durable heavy-gauge aluminum, strong enough to support up to a 275-pound rider. The resistance adjustment knob is conveniently located right below the handlebars, but it’s inconsistent. You may have to turn it two or three times to get the resistance you want, instead of just a half or quarter turn like you’d find on most spin bikes.
Like the Pro Indoor Cycling Bike, the SF-B1002 doesn’t have a computer. This was most likely done to save money, and we’re not complaining. At this price, we’d rather see fewer, high-quality features than a whole bunch of cheaply-made bells and whistles. The brake pad is a drawback, though. It’s made of rubber and wears out over time so you’ll need to replace it. This bike includes a water bottle holder and has transport wheels on the front for easy movement and storage.
Pros:
- Plenty of resistance
- Includes a water bottle holder
- Easy transport and storage
- Inexpensive
Cons:
- Awkward adjustment knob
- Brake pad wears out over time
- No computer
5. Sunny Evolution
Sunny Evolution
$539.62 in stock
Features
- 20 KG FLYWHEEL: 20 kg heavy-duty flywheel ensures stability to avoid jolting while riding; Emergency push-down brake stops the wheel immediately for safety;
- MAGNETIC RESISTANCE SYSTEM: Magnetic resistance is more technologically advanced than the strap resistance mechanism; When increasing the pedal resistance, the magnets move closer to the flywheel, creating tension; Magnetic resistance is virtually no maintenance and the tension any cyclist wants;
- BELT DRIVE: Belt Drive mechanism is smooth pedaling and silent; This system is low maintenance, doesn't require oil, and lasts longer and is lighter than a chain drive;
- 150 KG MAX USER WEIGHT: Heavy Duty and High Durability steel frame construction with up to 150 kg weight capacity;
- FULL ADJUSTABLE SEAT: Move your seat fore/aft and up/down to properly fit your bike; The bike padded seat is completely adjustable for multiple bike riders in your home! Inseam: Min 73 cm / Max 99 cm
The Sunny Health & Fitness Evolution Pro is as close as you’ll come to owning a Peleton without spending thousands of dollars.
Key features:
- 44-pound flywheel
- Magnetic resistance system
- 330-pound weight limit
- Belt drive
- Adjustable resistance
The Evolution Pro is one of the toughest spin bikes you’ll find short of spending as much on a bike as you would on a used car. The frame is extremely durable and is strong enough to support up to 330 pounds. The 44-pound flywheel provides plenty of resistance for almost anybody and has a belt drive that’s quieter than your average microwave oven.
This bike has a magnetic resistance system, which means you’ll never need to replace a brake pad or resistance belt. The resistance is adjustable via a knob that’s located on the center of the frame, just beneath the handlebars. As with all magnetic resistance systems, it does get a bit loud at extremely high resistance, but that’s well worth it considering how convenient it is.
The seat and handlebars are adjustable both up and down and forward and backward, making the Evolution Pro well-sized for almost any rider. It has an integrated water bottle holder so you can hydrate without interrupting your workout. All of this comes at a relatively steep price, but it’s inexpensive compared to what you’d pay for some other brands. Our only real complaint is the lack of any kind of computer. At this price, a distance tracker would have been nice.
Pros:
- Extremely durable
- Resistance system never wears out
- Runs quiet
- Adjustable seat and handlebars
- Integrated water bottle holder
Cons:
- Expensive
- No computer
6. Joroto
Features
- 【 Solid Build 】- The AV type frame, 50mm thickened frame tube, 35lbs flywheel and 280lbs user weight capacity gives this indoor bike a rock solid build. It‘s great choice for stationary bike.
- 【 Fully Adjustable 】- With 2-way adjustable handlebar and 4-way adjustable seat, this indoor cycling bike suits for most users with different heights (suitable inseam from 25.6" ~ 35.4"); With a convenient resistance adjustable knob, you can adjust the intensity of your workout, it is perfect for any user's skill level.
- 【 User-friendly Design 】- Easy-read digital monitor to track workout data including your workout time, speed, RPM, distance, and calories burned; Dual transportation wheels for an easy move. This X1S indoor cycling bike uses adjustable caged pedals, the thread of the pedal crank is 9/16", it is compatible with the most clip in pedals in the market.
- 【 Large Tablet Support 】- 10.2" large tablet support allows you put your notebook, tablet, mobile phone or books on the bike to watch cycling classes and read; it makes the workout exercise interesting and easy to insist, no more boring.
- 【 Our Promise 】- This X1S indoor cycling bike's shipping weight is 98 lbs, itself weighs 85 lbs while its flywheel weighs 35 lbs, which is much heavier than other brands. For all JOROTO bikes, the measurement and capacity are the actual results, NOT a mendacious number! All parts has 1 year free replacement! Customer support team response within 24 hours! Satisfied solution will be provided if any issue!
The JOROTO Indoor Cycling Bike Trainer is a well-designed spin bike with lots of features for the price.
Key features:
- 35-pound flywheel
- 280-pound weight capacity
- Chain drive
- Felt pad resistance
- Digital console
- Adjustable seat and handlebars
This bike is designed around a tough, durable frame that’s welded at major joints and bolted to the base. The 35-pound flywheel is relatively lightweight, but still heavy enough for most people to get a good workout. The felt pad resistance is adjustable via a small knob on the center of the bike. The pads provide a high level of resistance at maximum tension, but like all pads they will wear out after enough use.
In terms of price, it falls squarely in the middle of home spin bikes; neither cheap enough to be a true budget bike nor expensive enough to be “premium”. Considering the price point, it has a nice selection of features. The seat and handlebars can both be adjusted up and down as well as from front to back. The pedals themselves have locking straps for safety and convenience, and the handlebars have a large mounting tray for watching your phone, tablet or laptop.
The chain drive on this bike is relatively quiet, although it’s still louder than most belt-drive bikes. The digital control monitor displays useful data such as how far you’ve ridden, your current speed, revolutions per minute and how long you’ve been riding for. While the computer works well, the display has no backlight, so it’s hard to read in a poorly-lit room.
Pros:
- Tough and durable
- Computer displays session info
- Integrated phone/tablet/laptop holder
- Fits almost any body size
Cons:
- Brake pads wear out over time
- Screen is not backlit
7. Sunny Health & Fitness
Features
- Fully adjustable seat, can be adjusted up/down and forward/back. foam grip handles can be adjusted up/down
- Chain drive provides realistic, smooth and quiet workouts
- Adjustable resistance for variable workout
- Heavy-duty crank and steel frame construction with a 30 lb chromed solid flywheel
- Maximum user weight: 220 lb
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B1001S is a lightweight, light-duty spin bike that’s as affordable as they come.
Key features:
- 30-pound flywheel
- 220-pound weight capacity
- Chain drive
- Felt pad resistance
- Strap-in foot pedals
- Adjustable seat and handlebars
This bike is designed to be as lightweight as possible while still being useful. The entire unit weighs only 75 pounds, including the 30-pound flywheel. The frame is relatively light-gauge and only supports 220 pounds. The pedals are strap-in style, with standard 9/16-inch threading so you can replace them if needed. It’s also the most inexpensive bike on our list by a longshot.
There’s an integrated water bottle holder on the crossbar, just beneath the resistance adjustment knob, and the small transport wheels on the front of the base make the bike easy to roll away when you’re done with it. Both the seat and the handlebar are adjustable, although the handlebar only adjusts up and down.
Needless to say, you’re going to get what you pay for to some extent. There’s no onboard computer for tracking, and the resistance system, while adjustable, consists of a felt pad that will wear down over time as it’s ridden. The chain drive is also loud when compared to a belt drive. The reason Sunny made this choice is readily apparent – there’s no such thing as a good, cheap belt drive, while people have been making good, cheap chain drives since the first bicycles.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to move
- Adjustable
- Integrated water bottle holder
- Very inexpensive
Cons:
- No computer
- Brake pads wear out over time
- Loud
8. Ancheer
Features
- 【US Shipping, Usually Arrival Time: 3-5 Days!】【BELT DRIVEN &40 LBS FLYWHEEL】: 40 lbs chromed solid flywheel and heavy-duty steel frame of the stationary bike delivers a stable, smooth and silent ride.Also belt driven system delivers a smoother and quieter ride than chain drive mechanism.
- 【HEART RATE SENSOR & ELBOW TRAY DESIGN】: Innovative heart rate sensor design, monitoring pulse frequency at any time(before/during/after cycling). Distinctive ELBOW TRAY design supports your elbow and gives you the most comfortable indoor riding experience.
- 【FULLY ADJUSTABLE】: Horizontally and vertically adjustable saddle. Vertically adjustable handlebars.The resistance system delivers nearly unlimited resistance, which is perfect for high-intensity cardiovascular workouts.
- 【ADJUSTABLE BASE &TRANSPORT WHEELS 】: This exercise bike features adjustable base for uneven floors if needed that guarantee the stability while cycling. The bike has a strong robust frame with transport wheels for easy movement. Product size:43 x 19 x 45inches. Weight:90lbs.
- 【More Benefits & Hassle-free Service】: One hour of riding per day helps to Build Muscle, Burning Calories, Enhance Bones, Improve Heart Health, Increase Lung Capacity, Body Shaper, Relieve Pressure. Our indoor cycling bike have ONE year quality service to the products. Within the service period, we provide the FREE replacement parts.
The ANCHEER A5001 is an inexpensive, full-featured spin bike that’s a good choice for beginning spinners.
Key features:
- 40-pound flywheel
- 330-pound weight capacity
- Belt drive
- Heart rate sensor
- Digital console
- Felt pad resistance
- Adjustable seat and handlebars
This bike has a 40-pound flywheel, which is right in the middle of the range in terms of weight. As a result, just about anybody can use it if the resistance is set at the right level for them. The adjustment knob is located on the top of the frame and controls a felt pad which provides friction. As with all pad brakes, the pad will wear down over time and need to be replaced.
In terms of rider size, the A5001 is a bit of a paradox. On the one hand, it’s relatively heavy-duty, with a weight capacity of 330 pounds. On the other hand, it’s very small; anyone over about 5’7” is going to need to hunch over to reach the handlebars comfortably. The construction is also a bit sloppy, with handlebar screws that don’t go in all the way and leave the handlebars a bit loose. We understand that this is a budget bike, but the handlebars shouldn’t wobble the first time you ride it.
A lot of the purchase price seems to go into the computer, which is impressive for such an inexpensive spin bike. Not only does it have a pulse monitor, but it tracks distance, speed, calories burned and your time in the current session.
Pros:
- Full-featured starter bike
- Runs quiet
- Computer tracks distance, calories and more
- Water bottle holder
- Inexpensive
Cons:
- Sloppy construction
- Brake pads wear out over time
- Very small
9. Marcy Club
Marcy Club Revolution
Features
- EXCELLENT CARDIO WORKOUT – The Marcy Club Revolution Cycle Trainer is a piece of indoor equipment that allows you to experience an intense cardio workout even in a stationary position.
- ERGONOMIC SEATING – The ergonomic design offers optimum comfort and ease of use. It has a road-bike style saddle with adjustable foam padded handle bars that adjusts vertically and a seat that can be adjusted both vertically and horizontally.
- DURABLE STEEL CONSTRUCTION – The frame of this stationary bike is made of durable steel. It is resistant to rust and corrosion, as it is made of steel with sturdy welding points and a powder-coated finish.
- SAFE TO USE – This exercise bike features a quick-stop mechanism that allows you to halt the wheel’s motion easily. Its solid pulley supports up to 300 lbs. of weight in a complete stand-up posture.
- GYM AT HOME – Enjoy the convenience of working out without leaving the comfort of your own home with an indoor bike that provides the same intensity and resistance as a road bike.
The Marcy Club Revolution Bike Cycle Trainer is an inexpensive spin bike with enough features to be useful for a wide variety of riders.
Key features:
- 40-pound flywheel
- 300-pound weight capacity
- Chain drive
- Felt pad resistance
- Adjustable seat and handlebars
The flywheel on this spin bike weighs 40 pounds, which is light enough for beginners while providing a strenuous workout if you crank the resistance up all the way. The resistance is easily controlled via a knob on the crossbar, although the mechanism itself is a felt pad. The pad itself is quiet when it’s engaged, but will still need to be changed from time to time.
The same can’t be said for the chain drive, which is very noisy. Despite the noise, we still prefer a chain drive to a belt drive on a budget bike because it’s far more durable than a belt drive. The seat and handlebars are both adjustable, but the handlebars can only be adjusted vertically, not horizontally.
This bike has a tough, welded frame that’s able to support up to 300 pounds. The pedals have a strap-in design, which means it won’t be easy for your feet to slip while you’re riding. All in all, this is a well-engineered spin bike. If you’re going to ride for a long time, though, you’ll probably want to replace the seat; the stock seat is hard, and not very comfortable.
Pros:
- Suitable for all experience levels
- Solid construction
- Strap-in pedals for safety
- Inexpensive
Cons:
- Noisy
- Brake pads wear out over time
- Hard seat
10. Sunny Belt Drive
Sunny Belt Drive
$269.00 in stock
Features
- Product dimensions: 47L x 20W x 44H in | Seat dimensions: 11L x 9.5W x 2.5H in | Product weight: 92.2 Pounds
- Adjustable handlebars and fully adjustable seat with high density padding
- LCD monitor displays time, speed, distance, calories, and scan.
- Adjustable resistance with press down breaking system
- Heavy duty steel frame with bottle holder; maximum user weight 265 lbs.
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B1423 is a solid beginner bike with a few extra features.
Key features:
- 40-pound flywheel
- 265-pound weight capacity
- Felt pad resistance
- Belt drive
- Adjustable seat and handlebars
- Digital monitor
This bike is built around a 40-pound flywheel that’s lightweight enough to be manageable for a beginner, but still provides plenty of resistance when the resistance is turned up. The resistance itself is easy to adjust using the adjustment knob located on the frame. Unfortunately, it uses a felt pad brake, which requires periodic replacement. That said, the belt drive is nice and tight, and the whole bike runs quietly.
The frame is on the lighter side, and will only support 265 pounds. It’s sturdy, though, and it doesn’t rock when you’re riding. Thanks to the transport wheels on the base, it’s also easy to move when you need to get it out of the way. The entire package is inexpensive, and overall a very good value.
There’s a water bottle holder on the frame to help you stay hydrated, and the seat and handlebars are both adjustable. The handlebars only adjust vertically, but they have enough range of motion to support almost anyone who’s light enough to ride the bike. The onboard computer tracks distance and calories. However, the display doesn’t have a backlight, so you’ll have trouble reading it in dim lighting.
Pros:
- Plenty of resistance
- Runs quiet
- Integrated water bottle holder
- Computer tracks distance and calories
- Inexpensive
Cons:
- Brake pads need to be replaced periodically
- No backlight on screen
11. L NOW D600
Features
- Equipped with a 22lbs bidirectional flywheel, your riding will be so smooth.
- 2-way adjustable handlebar and 4-way adjustable seat.
- With A LCD monitor, you can track your Speed/Time/Distance/Calories/Odometers/Pulse.
- Consistant Adjustable resitance with a turning knob. Easy to move around with transport wheels.
- Supports up to 280lbs, Cage pedals are designed with adjustable straps which make your cycling more safer.
The L Now Model D600 is a lightweight, affordable spin bike for beginners.
Key features:
- 22-pound flywheel
- 280-pound capacity
- Belt drive
- Felt pad resistance
- Computer with pulse monitor
- Adjustable seat and handlebars
The D600 is built around a 22-pound flywheel that’s one of the lightest on the market. This makes it a good choice for beginners or for people who are going through physical therapy, since it provides relatively little resistance. It’s a little too light, though; without the weight of a heavy flywheel to stabilize it, you may notice that the bike wobbles as you pedal, particularly at high speeds.
The frame is durable enough to support 280 pounds and light enough to easily roll away when you’re done with it. The pedals have a strap-in design for safety and convenience, which makes it easy to slow down without needing to apply the brake. This is fortunate since the felt brake pad will wear down over time. The handlebar is ergonomic, with several grip positions available.
There’s also a basic computer. It’s nothing fancy, but it displays your time, distance and calories burned. The D600 is relatively inexpensive and has an appropriate size. Anyone over 5’9” is liable to be sitting too close to the pedals, even with the seat raised up all the way. At the end of the day, this is a solid, lightweight bike for beginners.
Pros:
- Very lightweight
- Suitable for beginners
- Strap-in pedals for safety
- Multi-grip handlebar
- Affordable
Cons:
- Not very big
- Brake needs periodic replacement
- Tends to wobble
12. Harison Pro
Features
Binding | Misc. |
Brand | HARISON |
Color | white |
EAN | 0714744040580 |
EAN List | EAN List Element: 0714744040580 |
Item Dimensions | Height: 4400; Length: 4700; Weight: 6800; Width: 2500 |
Label | HARISON |
Manufacturer | HARISON |
MPN | B1850USA |
Package Dimensions | Height: 850; Length: 3950; Weight: 7900; Width: 3200 |
Package Quantity | 1 |
Part Number | B1850USA |
Product Group | Sports |
Product Type Name | SPORTING_GOODS |
Publisher | HARISON |
Studio | HARISON |
Title | HARISON Pro Indoor Cycling Bike Belt Drive with iPad Holder, Stationary Exercise Bike Free Water Bottle by B1850 |
UPC | 714744040580 |
UPC List | UPC List Element: 714744040580 |
The HARISON Indoor Cycling Bike is a lightweight spin bike for beginners who still want all the features.
Key features:
- 29-pound flywheel
- 280-pound weight capacity
- Belt drive
- Felt pad resistance
- Computer with distance, time and calorie trackers
- Adjustable seat and handlebars
This bike is built around a 29-pound flywheel, which is ideal for beginners or for people going through physical therapy. Experienced spinners will want a spin bike with a little more heft to it. That said, the entire bike only weighs 88 pounds, and is easy to roll away and store using the transport wheels. The resistance itself is controlled by a knob on the crossbar, although it uses a felt pad for applying friction, which will need to be replaced periodically.
The HARISON bike runs very quietly, thanks to the belt drive. The most noise you’ll hear is a soft whir if you have the resistance cranked all the way up. It has an integrated tablet and phone holder, so you can stay entertained throughout the workout. The computer has several functions and tracks workout time, distance, and how many calories you’ve burned.
Unfortunately, the overall construction is somewhat shoddy. Assembling it can be a challenge since the parts aren’t machined to very high tolerances and can be hard to fit together. On the other hand, this bike has more features than most bikes in this middle price range, and the Chinese manufacturing is what allows it to stay somewhat affordable.
Pros:
- Durable and lightweight
- Multi-function computer
- Integrated tablet/phone holder
- Runs quietly
Cons:
- Shoddy construction
- Felt pad wears out and needs replacement
13. L NOW
Features
Binding | Misc. |
Brand | L NOW |
Color | black |
EAN | 6407912165409 |
EAN List | EAN List Element: 6407912165409 |
Label | L NOW |
Manufacturer | L NOW |
Package Dimensions | Height: 900; Length: 4300; Weight: 10100; Width: 3500 |
Product Group | Sports |
Product Type Name | SPORTING_GOODS |
Publisher | L NOW |
Studio | L NOW |
Title | L NOW Indoor Cycling Bike Trainer Belt Drive and Sturdy |
The L Now Indoor Cycling Trainer is relatively pricey, but it has all the features you could ask for in a home spin bike.
Key features:
- 35-pound flywheel
- 300-pound capacity
- Bi-directional flywheel
- Belt drive
- Magnetic resistance
- Integrated computer with pulse monitor
- Adjustable seat and handlebars
- Steel frame
This spin bike is made for veteran spinners who want to bring their gym experience into their living room. The 35-pound flywheel is heavy enough to get the job done, particularly when combined with the magnetic resistance. It has a belt drive that’s whisper quiet. You can ride this bike with a sleeping baby in the next room, and not have to worry about cranks or squeals waking them up.
Not only is this bike quiet, but it’s one of the few home models available with a bi-directional flywheel. This gives it the versatility to do advanced workouts which would normally keep you tied to a gym. The seat and handlebars are both adjustable vertically and horizontally. The tablet holder and water bottle holder are both conveniently located in front of the handlebars, so entertainment and hydration are both at your fingertips.
The computer on this bike is also really nice. It has pulse monitors built into the handlebars, so you’ll get a more accurate calorie count than you’d get based solely on time and distance. The strap-in pedals are a nice safety feature and are almost mandatory to keep your feet in place when reversing the flywheel. This spinning bike is on the pricier side, but it’s worth every penny.
Pros:
- Very quiet
- Wide range of workout intensities
- Strap-in pedals
- Tablet and water bottle holder
- Highly adjustable
Cons:
- On the pricier side
14. Sunny SF-B1110
Features
- Features: inertia driven flywheel with a chrome rim weighs 44 lbs. Giving a smooth and consistent ride when pedaling. Chain driven mechanism simulates road bike exercise.
- Resistance: 2-in-1 easy dial tension adjustment and push down brake offers a progressive and challenging workout. Felt pad gives smooth and even resistance.
- Fully adjustable: the cushioned ergonomic seat and handlebars adjust forward/backward and up/down, allowing a closer proximity to the handlebar. Adjustability makes this cycle bike possible to comfortably exercise.
- Transpiration: transportation wheels provide for easy relocation.
- Multi position handlebars: combined pursuit bar and Aero bar design handlebars, it gives the rider numerous hand position variations.
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B1110 is an 14. Sunny SF-B1110 that’s great for beginner or intermediate riders.
Key features:
- 44-pound flywheel
- 265-pound weight capacity
- Felt pad resistance
- Chain drive
- Adjustable seat and handlebars
The SF-B1110’s 44-pound flywheel is a good weight for spinning enthusiasts of all experience levels. With no resistance, it feels like an ordinary road bike, and you can get a powerful, uphill biking experience by turning the resistance up. The felt pad is stiff enough to provide a lot of resistance but will need to be replaced when it wears out.
The integrated water bottle makes it easy to stay hydrated during an intense workout, and the strap-in pedals keep your feet from slipping off the pedals. The seat and handlebars are adjustable, both vertically and horizontally. The chain drive is noisier than a belt drive, but it simulates the feel of a road bike better.
The SF-B1110 is very affordable. However, you may want to replace the seat. The factory seat is hard enough to get uncomfortable during a long session. There is no computer on this bike.
Pros:
- Good for all skill levels
- Integrated water bottle holder
- Strap-in pedals
- Affordable
Cons:
- Hard seat
- Felt pad wears out over time
- Noisy
15. Ancheer
Features
- 【Unprecedented: 429.99→ 369.99!!!】【3D Virtual Riding & Convenience of Workout】This upgraded APP top Indoor cycling exercise bike offers personalized coaching through the free Qiber App, allows you to experience more fun, unconsciously you have completed today's fitness goals. You can also play with your friends, speed up and surpass and to be number 1, keep you motivated. You can enjoy the convenience of working out without leaving the comfort of home.
- 【35LBS Flywheel & Smooth and Quiet & Belt Drive System】49LBS inertia-enhanced precision balanced flywheel combined with the belt drive mechanism allows for smooth and quite workouts while the built in push down emergency brake will bring the bike to an immediate stop.
- 【Adjustable Resistance & Padded Seat & Handle Bar】With a convenient tension knob, you can increase or decrease resistance to choose the difficulty level that is suit for your fitness goals. Fully adjustable handle bar with HDI rubber to fit your arm length, provides different ways of exercising; 4 way seat adjustable wide leather padded seat, can easy move forward/back and up/down. With a simple twist of a knob, your workout can remain comfortable when riding for long periods of time.
- 【Sturdy Construction & Adjustable Non-slip Pedals & Portable & Easy to Move】Tubular steel construction and a wide base provide secure stability and lasting durability. Weight capacity: 380lbs. Fully adjustable non-slip pedals to fit your arm length, provides different ways of exercising. Wheels at the front of the unit allows the user to move their elliptical machine around with ease, from room to room, or store it away out of sight.
- 【Digital Monitor & Phone Bracket & Pulse Rate Grips】 Start planning and recording your fitness statistics by using the advanced LED digital monitor which keeps track time, distance, scan, speed, calories burned and target zone heart rate monitoring. And Phone Bracket for entertainment while exercise.Our exercise bike comes with FREE replacement parts for 12 months.
The ANCHEER M6008 is an affordable beginner bike with enough features to be useful for most workouts.
Key features:
- 30-pound flywheel
- 275-pound capacity
- Belt drive
- Felt pad resistance
- Adjustable seat and handlebars
- Integrated computer
This bike is designed around a 30-pound flywheel, which is on the lighter side. It’s plenty for beginning spinners, and actually provides a fair amount of resistance when the resistance knob is turned all the way up. However, the felt pads wear out with use and will need to be replaced periodically. The belt drive is smooth and quiet, with a softer sound than a microwave oven.
The seat and handlebars on the M6008 are both adjustable vertically and horizontally. As a result, most people will be able to fit on this bike, provided they weigh 275 pounds or less. The frame is sturdy, but some of the non-weight-bearing parts are made of plastic. This wouldn’t normally be a concern, except that the plastic parts are very poorly machined. You may need WD-40 or heat to get them to nest properly.
The computer is pretty basic, but it has the most important features; it tracks time and distance, and estimates calories burned. There’s a tablet/phone bracket on the center console, but it’s not adjustable. Depending on how thick your device is, you may need to wrap the bottom in a rag to get it to stay put.
Pros:
- Tablet/phone bracket
- Computer tracks time, distance, and calories
- Highly adjustable
- Runs quietly
- Affordable
Cons:
- Felt pads wear out over time
- Difficult to assemble
16. Sunny SF-B901B
Features
- DUAL FELT PAD RESISTANCE: Use the brake pad system to make micro adjustments to the flywheel resistance. Press the emergency stop lever to bring the flywheel to an instant stop while exercising.
- EASY ADJUSTMENTS: This bike is equipped with adjustable multi-grip handlebars to accommodate to your riding style. Move the two-way adjustable seat up or down to match your leg inseam length.
- BELT-DRIVE MECHANISM: The smooth belt-drive mechanism is virtually maintenance free and quiet. It engages the 40 lb flywheel, which is designed for momentum and drives challenging workouts.
- HEAVY DUTY STEEL FRAME: Feel confident performing any cycle-based workout on the steel cycle bike frame that can support up to 275 lb.
- TRANSPORTATION WHEELS: This cycle bike is not limited to one place in your home. Use the onboard transportation wheels to easily move the bike from room to room.
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B901B is a well-engineered but minimalist home spin bike.
Key features:
- 40-pound flywheel
- 275-pound weight capacity
- Belt drive
- Felt pad resistance
- Adjustable seat and handlebars
The SF-B901B has a 40-pound flywheel, making it suitable for beginners and experts alike. Its weight capacity is 275 pounds, and the seat and handlebars are adjustable both vertically and horizontally. As a result, this is a good spin bike for everybody. Whether you’re large or small, a veteran or a newbie, you’ll get a lot of use out of this bike. The belt drive is extremely quiet.
The frame itself is durable and welded together for extra strength, with strap-in pedals for safety and a water bottle holder on the side of the frame for hydration. The handlebars are large and allow for a wide variety of grips. The resistance is adjustable via a knob on top of the crossbar. For transport, you have two convenient wheels on the bottom of the base. Don’t plan on moving it often, though; this bike weighs 128 pounds.
There’s no computer on this bike, and the felt brakes will wear out over time. That said, the SF-B901B is very affordable, and everything about it is well-designed. Sunny seems to have been shooting for a minimalist, but heavy-duty bike. They’ve delivered.
Pros:
- Durable and well designed
- Good for all skill levels
- Multi-grip handlebars
- Integrated water bottle holder
- Inexpensive
Cons:
- Felt pads wear out over time
- No computer
17. Sunny SF-B1423C
Features
- ADJUSTABILITY: Adjustable handlebars and fully adjustable seat with high density padding.
- DIGITAL MONITOR: LCD monitor displays time, speed, distance, calories, and scan. Seat dimensions: 11L x 9.5W x 2.5H inch.
- FRICTION RESISTANCE: Adjustable resistance with press down braking system's time, speed, distance, calories, and scan
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Heavy duty steel frame with bottle holder; maximum user weight 265 lbs.
- CUSTOMIZABLE: Adjustable Inseam Height Max 36 in/ Min 27 in. frame with bottle holder
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B1423C is an inexpensive, full-featured spin bike for beginners.
Key features:
- 40-pound flywheel
- 265-pound capacity
- Chain drive
- Felt pad resistance
- Lightweight frame
- Includes an LCD monitor
The SF-B1423C has a 40-pound flywheel that provides plenty of resistance without making the whole bike overly heavy. It has a chain drive which, when combined with a little resistance, feels exactly like you’re riding on the road. Unfortunately, that comes with the usual drawback of chain drives: it’s noisy. The felt resistance pad is easy to adjust and works well but will need to be replaced when it wears out.
This bike has a lightweight steel frame that’s tough enough to take a beating. The 265-pound capacity isn’t the highest we’ve seen, but it’s enough to support most people. The unit itself weighs less than a hundred pounds and has transport wheels on the base for easy roll-away storage.
One thing that’s worth mentioning: the threading on the pedals and crankshafts is cheap. This isn’t a problem in and of itself but can become an issue if you decide you don’t like the pedals. It’s easy to accidentally cross-thread a new pedal, ruining the crankshaft.
Pros:
- Computer measures time, distance, and calories burned
- Feels like a road bike
- Easy to transport and store
- Built-in water bottle
- Affordable
Cons:
- Pedal threading is cheap
- Noisy
- Felt pads need to be replaced periodically
18. PyHigh
PYHIGH
Features
- Professional Exercise Bike for Home
- 【About PYHIGH】PYHIGH Fitness has been always focusing on designing and producing exercise machines for 20 years. The PYHIGH exercise bike has served more than 500,000+ families and 50+ countries in the world. As a professional manufacturer and direct US Market distributor, we are confident that our exercise bikes will meet your special requirements.
- [Upgraded Spin Bike]: Compared with other exercise bikes on the market, WE IMPROVE THE INDOOR BKIE STABILITY AND COMFORT, FLYWHEEL WEIGHT, REINFORCED PEDAL, SILENT BELT DRIVE. The thickened steel frame and triangular support increase the stability and sturdy stand in your bicycle riding. The 35lbs flywheel stationary bike supports 300lbs, suitable for most people's indoor home fitness.
- [Quiet & Adjustable Resistance]: Indoor cycling bike with the Belt-driven provides you a quiet riding, so you don't worry about disturbing others. Continuous resistance adjustment through the knob or push down the emergency brake to stop immediately. The pedals with adjustable straps could fix your feet well and prevent slipping off during riding.
- [Adjustable Handle & Saddle]: Exercise bike supports riders 4’5-6’5 and max weight 300lbs, widely used by beginners to advanced users! The handle and seat of the exercise bike can be adjusted to 5 different heights. You can adjust the appropriate height for cardio training according to your needs. The non-slip and waterproof handle lets you do indoor training safely.
The PYHIGH Belt Drive Indoor Cycling Bike is a solid beginner bike for shorter people.
Key features:
- 35-pound flywheel
- 280-pound weight capacity
- Belt drive
- Felt pad resistance
- Adjustable seat and handlebars
- LCD monitor
The PYHIGH Belt Drive Indoor Cycling Bike has a 35-pound flywheel, which is on the lighter side. However, it has enough resistance for an intense workout if you crank up the resistance. The belt drive and felt pad are both quiet, but you’ll need to replace the pad periodically when it wears out. It has strap-in pedals, so your feet will stay in place even if you accidentally bump up the resistance or get distracted by a toddler.
This bike has a weight capacity of 280 pounds, which should be heavy enough to support most users. This is especially true given that this is a relatively small bike. Anyone taller than 5’6” is going to have trouble pedaling without feeling cramped. That said, the seat and handlebars are both adjustable, so people who are small enough to ride it will be able to size it correctly.
The built-in LCD monitor tracks your speed, mileage, distance, and how many calories you’ve burned. The frame is lightweight, with transport wheels on the base. The feet themselves are adjustable with small control dials, so the bike will be stable even if your floor isn’t perfectly level.
Pros:
- Quiet
- Strap-in pedals for safety
- Tracks speed, mileage, distance, and calories burned
Cons:
- Small
- Felt pads require replacement when they wear out
19. MaxKare
MaxKare
Features
- 【44 LBS FLYWHEEL & BELT DRIVEN】44lbs flywheel and heavy-duty steel frame of the exercise bike give this exercise bike a rock solid build,and guarantee the stability while cycling.The belt driven mechanism provides a smoother and quieter ride than chain transport. No worry for disturbing others.A good choice of exercise bikes for home gym.
- 【CUSTOMIZE AS YOU】This stationary bike can be customized according to your exercise habits with 2-ways(up/down) adjustable non-slip handlebar(adjustment range: 0~2.76 inches),4-ways padded seat (up/down/forward/backward).The updated seat of the stationary bike is airy and more soft with high-density padding.Moreover,the adjustable cage pedals on stationary bikes protects you from a fast ride.
- 【ADJUSTABLE RESISTANCE】The exercise bike equips a convenient resistance adjustable knob, with a simple twist, you can adjust intensity of your exercise bike to fulfill different workout plans.Press the emergency stop to stop the flywheel of the exercise bike immediately for safety in case the wheel is rotating too fast.
- 【LCD MONITOR & PAD MOUNT】The LCD monitor on the exercise bike displays your time, speed, distance, calories burned, heart rate and scan,allows you to better monitor your exercise status and make timely adjustments.The Pad holder allows you to enjoy exercising and video at the same time,relax your mind.
- 【WHAT YOU GET】You will get the durable exercise bike with a heavy flywheel. Max Weight Supporting Capacity of the spinning bike: Up to 330 lbs.The exercise bikes equipped with transportation wheels, which allows you to move the exercise bike effortlessly. Simply tilt and roll out for use.This exercise bike contains a bottle holder, allowing the users to replenish water in time.
The MaxKare Indoor Cycling Bike Trainer is an inexpensive starter bike with plenty of features.
Key features:
- 44-pound flywheel
- 260-pound weight capacity
- Belt drive
- Felt pad resistance
- LCD monitor
The 44-pound flywheel on the MaxKare provides plenty of resistance and is also heavy enough to keep the bike well-balanced even during an intense workout. The felt pad resistance can be adjusted up or down using a dial on the bike’s crossbar, and the belt drive is extremely quiet.
Unfortunately, this bike suffers from the usual Made-in-China construction issues. The hardware is sub-par, and the Allen wrenches that ship with it are more likely to strip and scratch the paint than they are to get all the bolts tightened. Experts and enthusiasts will be better off spending more money on a more durable bike. That said, this is a great beginner bike for people who are just getting started and don’t want to spend a fortune on something they’re not sure about.
The LCD monitor tracks your speed, distance, and estimates your calories burned. The bike has a built-in water bottle, as well as a phone/tablet bracket for keeping you entertained during your workout.
Pros:
- Good beginner bike
- Built-in water bottle and phone/tablet holders
- Tracks speed, distance, and calories burned
- Quiet
- Inexpensive
Cons:
- Shoddy construction
- Felt pads need to be replaced when they wear out
20. Relife Rebuild
Features
- Exercise Bike with Heavy Duty Flywheel for Home Gym Cardio Workout Machine New Version
The RELIFE Spin Bike is a budget bike that’s built for beginners.
Key features:
- 20-pound flywheel
- 330-pound weight capacity
- Belt drive
- Felt pad resistance
- Adjustable seat and handlebars
- LCD monitor
This bike is built around an extremely light, 20-pound flywheel. While it doesn’t provide much resistance on its own, you can still get a pretty intense workout just by cranking up the resistance. Doing this will cause the felt pad to wear out faster than it otherwise would, but then again, this is a budget bike. You’re going to have to make some sacrifices.
The frame itself is well-engineered and durable and is strong enough to support up to 330 pounds. The seat and the handlebars adjust both horizontally and vertically. Between these two factors, the RELIFE Spin Bike is well-suited for people of all sizes.
The LCD monitor is pretty basic, but it still tracks time, distance, and how many calories you’ve burned. For a bike that costs as much as a decent Chromebook, that’s not bad! Our only serious complaint is that the lightweight flywheel doesn’t provide much balance, and the bike tends to wobble when you’re pedaling at high speeds.
Pros:
- Good for people of all sizes
- Lightweight and durable
- Tracks time, distance, and calories
- Very inexpensive
Cons:
- Tends to wobble
- Felt pad will need to be replaced periodically
21. Exerpeutic Folding
Exerpeutic Folding
Features
- All LEVELS: An 8-level magnetic control system allows the user to adjust the tension level for an easier or more challenging workout. This indoor bike has a 3-piece "high torque" cranking system for a smooth pedaling motion.
- THE FUTURE OF FITNESS: Add the MyCloud Fitness Cadence sensor (sold separately) to track your workouts effectively, stream motivating classes, and calculate your food calories. The future of connected fitness means you don't have to do it alone.
- EASY TO READ: A 3.5 W" x 1.5" H LCD screen allows you to see your distance, calories burned, time, and speed. The cycling bike has a 300 lb capacity, a hand pulse monitor, and larger pedals with safety straps to prevent foot slippage when exercising.
- DESIGNED FOR ALL SIZES: Our bike exercise machine can accommodate everyone from heights of 5'3" to 6'1". It has a large adjustable seat cushion, allowing you to sit upright for the proper posture and alignment necessary for a successful workout.
- EASY SET-UP AND STORAGE: With hassle-free assembly, this portable exercise bike comes with tools and easy-to-follow instructions. It folds to half its size when fully assembled and has transportation wheels for convenient relocation.
The Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Exercise Bike is a collapsible spin bike that’s ideal for people in small apartments.
Key features:
- 20-pound flywheel
- 300-pound weight capacity
- Magnetic resistance
- Flywheel and crank shaft are a single unit
- LCD display
- Collapsible
This bike is a little different from the others on our list. The flywheel and crank shaft are a single, self-contained unit, with magnetic resistance. The reason for this is simple: the bike folds up when not in use, and it’s small enough to fit in a closet. This makes it perfect for people who have limited space, such as people in small apartments.
The pedals themselves have a strap-in design for safety and provide enough resistance for a moderate workout. That said, they’re just not tough enough for intense spinning sessions, so experts may want a more durable machine. The seat is also proprietary, so you won’t be able to swap it out for an aftermarket seat.
The LCD display shows distance, time, and estimates how many calories you’ve burned, and the machine itself is strong enough to support up to 300 pounds.
Pros:
- Lightweight and collapsible
- Displays distance, time, and calories burned
- Strap-in pedals
- Very affordable
Cons:
- Proprietary seat
- Not designed for intense workouts
How to Set Up a Spin Bike
Before you start putting your sweet new home spin bike to work, you’ll want to make sure it’s properly set up. Here are a few quick pointers to make that process as painless as possible.
Adjust Your Seat Height
This is one of the things that beginners often get wrong. If you’ve taken a spinning class or regularly ride spin bikes at the gym, you’re probably already familiar with seat height. If this is your first time, pay attention.
A seat that’s too high can force you to overextend your leg or use your tiptoes to get the pedals all the way to the bottom. This severely limits how much resistance you can use since you won’t have as much leverage as you should. Conversely, a seat that’s too low can force you to raise your knees too high and push from an awkward angle, which can cause knee injury.
Stand next to your bike, and adjust the seat so it’s level with your hip bone. On most bikes, this will get you where you want to be. To make any adjustments, keep this in mind: your knee should be over the ball of your foot when the pedal is at the 3 o’clock (full forward) position, and your knee should be slightly best when the pedal is at 6 o’clock.
Adjust Your Seat Position
Depending on your body size, you may need to adjust your seat forwards or backwards. To do this, sit on the bike and put your feet on the pedals with one in the 3 o’clock (full forward) position and the other in the 9 o’clock (full backward) position.
Now imagine a line between your knees. If that line crosses the middle of the flywheel, you’re well positioned. If it’s forward of the flywheel, move the seat backwards. If the line is behind the flywheel, move the seat forward.
Adjust Your Handlebars
An ideal handlebar position will have your elbows, shoulders, and hips form a clean right angle. This gives you maximum pedaling power while preventing you from needing to lean forwards or backwards too far, straining your back and neck.
Experienced riders will usually be most comfortable with the handlebars at the same height as the seat. However, if you’re recovering from an injury or suffer from permanent back pain, you’ll be better off starting with a high handlebar position. If possible, you should lower them over time to increase your power.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Spin Bike
Types of Resistance
There are two types of resistance available on today’s spin bikes: magnetic resistance, and pad brakes. Most systems allow you to adjust the resistance, although some inexpensive bikes limit you to the factory settings.
Pad brakes are the most common type of resistance you’ll see. They’re less expensive than magnetic resistance, but they wear out over time. As a result, you’re more likely to find them on a spin bike at home than you are to find them in a gym. These systems use a felt or rubber pad to apply friction to the flywheel. They’re generally quiet, although they can tend to squeak when the pads are badly worn.
Magnetic resistance is more durable, but also more expensive. For that reason, you’ll see it more often on gym spin bikes. The main reason people like it is because the magnets never need to be replaced. Basically, you’ll spend more money in the short term, but you won’t be getting nickeled and dimed down the road.
These systems work by positioning a powerful magnet near the flywheel to slow it down. The closer the magnet is, the more resistance you’ll feel. Magnetic resistance tends to be louder than a belt brake but in addition to its versatility it’s also more powerful. Even seasoned cyclists will have a hard time pedaling a magnetic bike when it’s on its hardest settings.
Flywheels
The flywheel is the heart of a spin cycle bike. It’s a heavy, weighted wheel that’s typically attached to the pedals with a drive chain. The gear ratio is fixed, which means you can’t upshift or downshift, and the pedals will continue to spin until the flywheel stops.
Most flywheels weigh between 30 and 50 pounds. This is heavy enough to simulate the effort of real-world bicycling, but not so heavy as to make the bike inconvenient to move. Anything under 30 pounds should be avoided, since extra light flywheels can feel loose and vibrate, causing the entire spin bike to shake.
Generally, you should buy a bike with the heaviest flywheel you can manage. This will provide as much challenge as possible, building more muscle and burning more calories. This is a workout, after all. Challenge is a good thing!
Computer
Computer/console options on spin bikes vary widely. On the low end of the spectrum, many bikes don’t have any computer at all. This saves you some money, but it also means you’ll be doing things old-school. Instead of simulating a ride for X number of miles, you’ll be limited to riding for X minutes and trying to keep your amount of effort consistent.
Most spin bike computers are simple tracking computers. These will show you information such as RPM, distance traveled, time elapsed and calories burned. However, they won’t save this information when you shut off. You’ll need to use a notebook to keep track of your workouts.
The most advanced spin bikes, including most magnetic bikes, allow you to change settings during a workout. This lets you simulate real-world conditions, such as riding up and down hills. The most advanced will even save workout information between sessions.
Seat & Comfort
One easy thing to get caught up on is the seat padding. We’re not saying this isn’t important; the more comfortable you are during your workout, the further you’ll be able to push yourself.
That said, seat comfort is less important on a spin bike than on a regular bicycle. For one thing, you can alternate between sitting and standing while you ride. For another thing, you won’t be dealing with bumpy trails or potholes in the road. All in all, this should be at the bottom of your list in terms of features.
Bottom Line
As you can see, there’s more to finding the best indoor cycling bike than just choosing the one that looks most like the one you’ve used at the gym. Bikes offer different levels and types of resistance, weigh different amounts, and have different features on their consoles. In addition to those features, there are a few other things you’ll want to consider.
Noise is one consideration, particularly if you live in an apartment. Consider a belt drive in this situation. Chain drives tend to be noisier. Even the loudest bikes are quieter than most household appliances, though. At the end of the day, this is a matter of comfort and convenience.
Another thing to consider is the overall weight and portability. If you have a dedicated workout room, you can more or less forget about this part. However, if space is limited, you’re going to need to move your spin bike around. This can get tedious if it weighs 150 pounds and doesn’t have any transport wheels.
Pedals can also be a factor. If the pedals are too large, too small, or just plain uncomfortable, it’s going to be a problem for you. Thankfully, spin bike pedals are compatible with regular bike pedals, so you can swap them out for a new set if you like. Just remember; the left pedal screws in counterclockwise, to avoid it coming unscrewed while you’re pedaling.
Still haven’t found one you like? The team at Lifestyle Reviews have also reviewed the Stryde bike!
The Review
Best Spin Bikes
Read through our reviews of the best spin bikes available on the market today before you make a purchase.
Review Breakdown
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SNODE Cycling Spin Bike
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Sunny Pro Indoor Cycling Bike
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Sunny Flywheel Cycle Bike
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Sunny Evolution Cycling Bike
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JOROTO Indoor Cycling Bike
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Sunny Indoor Cycling Bike
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ANCHEER Indoor Exercise Bike
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Marcy Club Revolution Bike Cycle
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Sunny Belt Drive Cycling Bike
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L NOW D600 Indoor Cycling Bike
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HARISON Pro Indoor Cycling Bike
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L NOW Indoor Cycling Bike
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Sunny SF-B1110 Indoor Cycling Bike
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ANCHEER Indoor Cycling Bike
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Sunny SF-B901B Indoor Cycling Bike
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Sunny SF-B1423C Indoor Cycling Bike
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PYHIGH Indoor Cycling Bike
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MaxKare Indoor Cycling Bike
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RELIFE REBUILD YOUR LIFE Spin Bike
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Exerpeutic Folding Exercise Bike
Best Spin Bikes DEALS
We collect information from many stores for best price available