Exercise bikes for home - which one is better: types and reviews

Types of exercise bikes

Today, there are many types of exercise bikes for home use. Variety lies in the convenience of choice, because everyone can find a sports unit based on their purpose, physical fitness and desire to achieve results. Based on the design and type of landing, there are four types: portable, hybrid, horizontal, vertical. The table shows the characteristic differences between the species and the expressed features:

Unit type	Peculiarities	Differences
Vertical	track bike simulator; load from both road bikes and road bikes; the location of the pedals is under the seat; All muscles are involved due to the type of landing.	It doesn’t take up much space at home, it’s compact (you can see from the photo), it makes you feel like a cyclist.
Horizontal	comfort; comfortable back; created for people with health problems; the load is removed from the back due to the type of landing; load on the leg muscles.	Suitable for the rehabilitation period after injuries, stabilizes the activity of the heart and respiratory system.
Hybrid	specialized design; you can train at home either reclining or sitting; the chair is easily adjustable in planes; the result of compatibility between horizontal and vertical types.	Rarely found on sale due to low demand. A well-known brand that produces such simulators is Matrix.
Portable	Available without seat; easy to transport; Its small size makes it possible to place it in a closet at home.	Due to its design, it is not as efficient as the horizontal or vertical type. Difficult to distribute the load.

Which exercise bike is better - magnetic or belt?

Professionals advise choosing the type of unit depending on your personal convenience. The load adjustment in the belt model is carried out using a belt and pedals, and in the magnetic model - using two magnets. The latter type is more functional, but also more expensive. The main difference between the best magnetic or belt exercise bike is the lifespan and noise level. Based on the comparative parameters, it is better to purchase a home exercise bike with a magnetic type of resistance.

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The best electromagnetic trainers

3. KETTLER 7682-050 E1

The load level in this exercise bike is adjusted using an electric drive; the resistance system is electromagnetic. The design is characterized by an increased level of strength and low weight. The case is made of high quality plastic, resistant to scratches and cracks. All elements of the case are carefully adjusted to each other, and over time there are no extraneous creaks or backlashes. The load adjustment in this case is step-by-step - one step is 5 W. The handles are tilted and the seat is adjusted in two planes. This unit has a whole set of training programs that are directly dependent on heart rate. If necessary, you can connect a heart rate sensor to the product, which is attached to the user’s chest. It is not included in the kit - you will have to purchase it separately.

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There is an original fitness test function that will not determine the general condition of the body, as was the case in previous models included in our review. She is able to carefully assess the rate of recovery of the human body after physical activity. The device is equipped with a flywheel whose weight is 6 kg. The maximum weight of a person exercising is 150 kg. This equipment is German-made, and the manufacturer offers a fairly long warranty period - 2 years.

Advantages:

High-quality assembly;
2 heart rate dependent programs;
Ease of use.

Flaws:

Quite expensive.

Carbon Fitness U804

The multifunctional exercise bike can withstand user weights of up to 140 kg. The flywheel weight in this design is 6 kg, which makes it possible to ensure the softest travel of the pedals, which are connected to a three-component unit. The seat is very comfortable - the lower back and spine will not get tired during the workout. It can be moved in vertical and horizontal planes. The steering wheel is also customizable. The simulator is characterized by the presence of a large number of training programs: this includes 12 traditional modes, 5 immediately dependent on heart rate, 4 custom ones are provided - a person can save the program specifically for himself, there is also a program with a fixed load. The exercise bike has a Recovery function, which, after the end of the lesson, will evaluate the state of the cardiovascular system and the speed of its recovery. In addition, there is a special Body Fat analyzer and BMI body mass index, which allow you to get a complete picture of the body’s condition.

The steering wheel is equipped with a liquid crystal display that displays all the data necessary for the user. The foot is held in the pedal using special straps, thanks to which it is possible to significantly reduce the load on the ankle joints. This device has a good price-quality ratio.

Advantages:

Affordable price;
A huge selection of different programs, it is possible to create your own;
Works absolutely silently;
Good stability indicators;
Very comfortable seat;
Beautiful appearance.

Flaws:

The display does not have a backlight.

1. Oxygen Nexus Guru UB HRC

This is a rather interesting design, which is equipped with a built-in generator that ensures long-term autonomous operation - the device, if necessary, can not even be connected to the mains. The model has rather large overall dimensions and is designed for a person with a maximum weight of 160 kg. The pedal stroke is very smooth, the torque is transmitted from the pedals to the flywheel absolutely silently - this is ensured thanks to the installed modern high-class EMS drive system, equipped with the magicFlow PLUS GENERATOR technological unit. The flywheel mass is one of the most significant in the entire review - it is as much as 11 kg. This unit also features press-in bearings, a pretensioner, and a stranded Kevlar belt. Like other models, the simulator has an adjustable steering wheel and seat.

The product is equipped with a color multifunctional liquid crystal display with a diagonal of about 14 cm. The software includes 12 preset functions that allow you to train speed skills, increase the endurance of the human body, strengthen the cardiovascular system and lose excess weight. There are four programs at once, depending on the heart rate. In the production of this model, exclusively high-quality materials are used, so it has a fairly long service life, during which it not only retains all its original functions, but also its attractive appearance.

Advantages:

There is a built-in electric current generator;
Many pre-installed programs;
The ride is smooth and silent;
Good load range.

Flaws:

Not detected.

Which exercise bike is better - magnetic or electromagnetic?

In the previous review, magnets won, but the home bike simulator was improved and given new advantages: improved system, improved technical parameters, complete energy autonomy. Thanks to electronics, you can determine your physical activity at home and set the appropriate workout mode and duration. The built-in heart rate sensor will tell you when to take a break. Statistics and parameters are displayed on a convenient monitor. Therefore, when thinking between magnetic or electromagnetic type, choose the second one.

Which exercise bike to choose

A sports cycling trainer for home is selected according to the client’s preferences. For home use, both large-sized models and portable ones that take up little space and can be hidden in a closet are popular. Such exercise machines are equipped with functions for adjusting loads, a monitor with information, and a heart rate sensor. In addition to the popular models presented in this article, you should pay attention to these best companies:

Alex;
Bodycraft;
Esprit;
Kämpfer;
Kettler (Kettler);
Lifegear;
Starfit;
Sven;
Torneo (torneo);
Zipro fitness.

Professional exercise bike

Spirit Fitness employees have developed a professional exercise bike for the home, which is perfect for athletic people. The XBU55 unit model features a multi-stage training program:

Model name: Spirit XBU55;
price: RUB 89,990;
characteristics: vertical type, autonomous operation, weight up to 148 kg, magnetic load system, unit weight 52 kg;
main advantages: the presence of programs, heart rate display, there is a stand for accessories.
cons: no tilt angle adjustment, flywheel weight only 13 kg.

An example of an improved home exercise machine is another model from the previous brand:

Model name: Spirit CB900;
price: RUB 109,990;
characteristics: vertical spin bike, autonomous operation, weight up to 154 kg, inertial load system, unit weight 66 kg;
pluses: flywheel weight increased to 19 kg, flywheel block grip;
cons: there is no heart rate sensor, no display of calories or speed.

A budget, but no less good professional exercise machine for the home is considered to be a unit from the Oxygen company:

Model name: Oxygen Turbox U;
price: RUB 25,890;
characteristics: vertical bicycle ergometer, autonomous operation, max. user weight up to 150 kg, electromagnetic load system, unit weight 38 kg;
pros: inexpensive price for excellent quality, number of training programs (32);
cons: no book stand, not suitable for rooms with low ceilings (height 146 cm).

Simple exercise bike

Compared to the best simple exercise bikes, the Carbon Fitness unit stands out clearly. The presented model is ideal for home use:

Model name: Carbon Fitness U200;
price: RUB 13,790;
characteristics: upright exercise bike, autonomous operation, weight up to 120 kg, magnetic load system, unit weight 19 kg;
pros: reasonable price, light weight, cadence displayed;
Cons: no fitness assessment, steering wheel adjustment, seat adjustment.

Second in the list of the top home equipment according to reviews is the Oxygen exercise machine, which costs a little more:

Model name: Oxygen Pelican II UB;
price: RUB 18,890;
characteristics: upright exercise bike, autonomous operation, weight up to 130 kg, magnetic load system, unit weight 27 kg;
pros: built-in heart rate sensor on the steering wheel, fitness rating and BodyFat rating;
cons: cadence is not displayed, there is no possibility of arm training.

An original-looking and functionally simple exercise bike from the German brand Svensson:

model name: Svensson Body Labs CrossLine BTA;
price: RUB 26,990;
characteristics: vertical bicycle ergometer, autonomous operation, weight up to 120 kg, magnetic load system, unit weight 24 kg;
pros: heart rate measurement, fitness assessment;
Cons: large, no ability to program workouts.

Portable exercise bike

Judging by the reviews, the most popular among portable exercise bikes is the mini belt exercise bike from Sport Elite:

model name: Sport Elite BY-810;
price: RUR 2,760;
characteristics: portable exercise bike, autonomous operation, weight up to 100 kg, belt loading system, unit weight 5.6 kg;
pros: the cadence parameter is displayed, inexpensive;
cons: no time and distance training.

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The next good exercise machine that will help support your body while traveling is this unit from DFC:

Model name: DFC SC-W002;
price: RUR 3,221;
characteristics: portable exercise bike, autonomous operation, weight up to 110 kg, belt loading system, unit weight 6.3 kg;
pros: number of load levels (8), inexpensive, suitable for training legs and arms, does not require a network connection.
cons: no display of cadence.

Among the new mini exercise bikes for home from this DFC company, a portable unit with a magnetic system stands out:

Model name: DFC 1.2-1;
price: RUB 2,990;
characteristics: portable exercise bike, autonomous operation, weight up to 100 kg, magnetic load system, unit weight 4.4 kg;
Pros: budget price, light weight, does not require a network connection.
cons: no display of current speed, training by distance and time.

Exercise bike for the elderly

The best exercise bike for older people, made in Germany by the Titan brand, is equipped with an electric motor and is great for training the muscles of the arms and legs at home:

Model name: LY-901-FM;
price: 3,900 rub.;
characteristics: pedal exercise bike, reverse mode, electric drive, load capacity up to 120 kg;
pros: calorie consumption display, training time display, revolutions per minute display, distance traveled display;
cons: not designed for professional use.

For older people, it is very important to eat properly and keep your body in shape. Particular attention should be paid to training the arms and shoulder area at home, which an exercise bike from the same Titan company will do an excellent job of:

Model name: CuraMotion Exer III with mat;
price: 42,000 rub.;
characteristics: number of force adjustment levels 8, weighs 9 kg, structure made of steel;
pros: trains the upper body, has a loading system, stability on the floor;
cons: high price.

To train the lower and upper body, there is an Armed brand simulator on sale, which, judging by the reviews, is convenient to carry:

model name: Armed T70110;
price: RUR 8,740;
characteristics: pedal type of product, weighs 10 kg, design is made of impact-resistant plastic; there is a clamp ring;
pros: trains the upper and lower body, there is a display that displays important information;
cons: not for professional use.

Ergonomics plays an important role.

Try sitting and pedaling before purchasing. Determine for yourself whether the seat suits you, is it hard, and is it comfortable to hold the steering wheel? Pay also attention to the frame. If most of the fasteners are made of plastic, then such a simulator may not withstand the load and will soon become unusable. Please also pay attention to the specified maximum user weight of the model you like.

To sum up how to choose the right exercise bike, we can say that the best option for your home would be a machine with a magnetic system and a vertical seat. Other additional features depend on your budget and preferences.

How to choose an exercise bike.

Rating of exercise bikes

The ratings of exercise bikes below will allow you to quickly make your choice. Do not forget that it is not enough to buy the most professional product, you need to read the instructions and use it correctly. Rating table for manufacturers of exercise bikes and how much the product costs:

Place	Brand name	Rating	Price
1	Spirit	5/5	from 89 thousand to 109 thousand rubles.
2	Oxygen	5/5	from 12 thousand to 48 thousand rubles.
3	Carbon Fitness	4/5	from 8 thousand to 22 thousand rubles.
4	Svensson Body Labs	5/5	from 14 thousand to 27 thousand rubles.
5	Sport Elite	3/5	from 2 thousand to 17 thousand rubles.
6	DFC	5/5	from 3 thousand to 26 thousand rubles.

How to choose an exercise bike for your home

The main criterion for choosing exercise bikes is the purpose of use. The units differ according to the type of load and are available with electromagnetic, magnetic, shoe, belt drive, and bicycle ergometers. Before purchasing, it is important to understand what muscle groups you want to train. The best exercise bikes are the ones that work for you and get the job done. Pay attention to the gross weight, net weight (if transportation is important), the length and width of the product, the ability to adjust the seat vertically and horizontally, and whether there are transport rollers/wheels.

You can select and order products in the catalog or buy them in the online store. The table below presents characteristics that will help you make your choice:

Unit name	Characteristics	Recommendations for purchase
Belt	does not require connection to the electrical network; have a belt placed on the flywheel that regulates the degree of load; You can use the chain drive system by operating the pedals.	A simple and cheap option, but noisy and has poor running smoothness.
Shoe	alternative to a track bike; the design contains a heavy flywheel with brake pads; high resistance; maximum smoothness; load on all muscle groups; there is no possibility of microtrauma.	Popular among professional cyclists. Such a unit replaces bicycle loads in winter.
Magnetic	heavy flywheel; two magnets create resistance; adjustable by moving magnets closer or farther to the flywheel; more load levels.	Does not make noise and has a high smoothness. Durable and reliable, has a long service life.
Electromagnetic	modern functionality; high quality; the electromagnetic field provides resistance; does not depend on the network; built-in current generator.	The most expensive models of units are electromagnetic type. Thanks to the electronics system, you can record your result and select the appropriate mode.
Bicycle ergometer	used in the process of rehabilitation and health therapy; smooth and smooth running; electromagnetic load system; orthopedic fit reduces stress on the back; Your heart rate is displayed on the screen.	You can choose your user program. Good preventive results have been shown for heart diseases. Used for weight loss.

What to look for when choosing an exercise bike?

Let's look at which modern simulator will be the best for regular training. When selecting, the following factors should be taken into account:

User weight.
The greater the weight of the trainee, the more powerful the design of the exercise bike. It is recommended to add 15-20% to the athlete’s weight so that the device does not wear out. For example, if your weight is 75 kg, then purchase a unit that can withstand 75*0.2+75=90 kg. If there are several people in the family, then make the calculation based on the weight of the heaviest one.
Type of exercise bike.
The choice of type depends on the requirements for the device, as well as on the planned operating mode. For people with varicose veins, with sore joints or backs, horizontal models are suitable, for professional racers - spin bikes, for people who want to become slim - a regular exercise bike.
Dimensions of the room.
If you are limited in space, then choose folding models - they allow you to save usable space. Vertical models are suitable for classes in small apartments - they take up minimal space. Do you want to be in better shape -
Built-in programs.
Modern exercise bikes have several dozen built-in programs designed for various situations: quick weight loss, pumping muscles, cardio exercises, etc. If you want to achieve better results, choose devices with built-in programs or the ability to add individual ones.
Informative display.
The built-in computer in exercise bikes displays information about mileage, exercise time, calories burned, heart rate, etc. This information helps in motivation and allows you to exercise more effectively.

Advice:

When doing cardio exercises, it is recommended to keep your heart rate at 60-70% of maximum. The required value is calculated using the following formula: (220 minus age) * 0.65. Those. If you are 35 years old, then working on cardio is most effective by maintaining your heart rate at (22-35)*0.65=120. Exceeding the personal norm (220 minus age) is not recommended so as not to cause damage to the cardiovascular system.

Also, when choosing a sports exercise bike, you should pay attention to the availability of additional functions. It will be useful to have built-in cardio sensors (usually located in the handles), mounts for a water bottle, built-in speakers for playing music, the design of an exercise bike and other pleasant little things.