There Are Lots of Exercise Bikes Out There, But These Are the 6 We Recommend – Men’s Health

2026年1月15日

If you’re looking to boost your fitness routine without stepping foot outside or into a crowded gym, an exercise bike is one of the best investments you can make. Not only do exercise bikes offer a low-impact, effective cardiovascular workout, but they’re also convenient and adjustable for all fitness levels. However, with an overwhelming number of exercise bikes flooding the market, it’s hard to know which one really delivers quality, comfort, and results. That’s why we’ve researched and tested the top models out there — here are the six exercise bikes we recommend for your home gym or workout space.

Why Choose an Exercise Bike?

Before diving into our top picks, let’s quickly cover the perks of cycling at home:

  • Low-impact cardio: Great for all ages and joint health.
  • Convenience: Exercise anytime, regardless of weather or schedule.
  • Calorie burning: Proven to help with weight loss and endurance.
  • Compact design: Many models are sleek enough for small rooms.
  • Customizable intensity: Perfect for beginners to pros.

What to Look for in an Exercise Bike

Before purchasing, keep these factors in mind to find the exercise bike that fits your lifestyle and fitness goals:

  • Resistance type: Magnetic resistance offers quieter, smoother rides.
  • Comfort: Adjustable seats and handlebars make a big difference.
  • Workout tracking: Displays for speed, distance, calories, and heart rate.
  • Build quality: Sturdy frames ensure durability and stability.
  • Connectivity features: Compatibility with apps or smart trainers for interactive workouts.
  • Price: Matches your budget without compromising quality.

The 6 Best Exercise Bikes We Recommend

1. Peloton Bike+ — The Premium Interactive Experience

The Peloton Bike+ isn’t just a bike; it’s an immersive fitness experience. Offering live-streamed classes led by world-class trainers, this model transforms your cardio sessions into motivational workouts. The rotating touchscreen allows easy control and seamless integration with fitness apps like Apple Fitness+.

  • Resistance: Magnetic with automatic adjustments.
  • Display: 23.8-inch HD rotating touchscreen.
  • Special features: Auto-follow resistance, Apple GymKit compatibility.
  • Ideal for: Fitness enthusiasts seeking interactive and engaging rides.

2. NordicTrack Commercial S22i Studio Cycle — Ride with a Commercial Feel

Featuring a 22-inch rotating HD touchscreen, the NordicTrack S22i lets you climb hills and descend valleys with real-time incline and decline adjustments. It’s perfect for those who want a studio experience from home with extensive workout classes and iFit membership compatibility.

  • Resistance: Magnetic with incline (-10% to 20%) and decline (-10%).
  • Display: 22-inch HD touchscreen.
  • Special features: Interactive coaching, extensive class library.
  • Ideal for: Those looking for varied terrain simulation and comprehensive training.

3. Schwinn IC4 — Best Budget-Friendly Smart Bike

The Schwinn IC4 offers smart-bike features at a more accessible price point. Compatible with popular cycling apps like Zwift, Peloton, and Explore the World, it’s a versatile option for tech-savvy riders on a budget.

  • Resistance: Magnetic with 100 levels.
  • Display: Basic LCD with workout data.
  • Special features: Bluetooth connectivity, app compatibility.
  • Ideal for: Riders seeking technology integration and affordability.

4. Echelon Smart Connect EX-5s — Group Ride Experience

The Echelon EX-5s combines affordability with a comprehensive smart workout experience. With a 21.5-inch HD touchscreen and access to live/group classes, this bike helps you stay motivated with a community feel.

  • Resistance: Magnetic with 32 levels.
  • Display: 21.5-inch HD touchscreen.
  • Special features: Group rides, leaderboard competition.
  • Ideal for: Social cyclists looking to join live or on-demand classes.

5. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B1805 — Best for Compact Spaces

For those tight on space, the SF-B1805 recumbent bike offers a comfortable seated ride with a smaller footprint. Perfect for users prioritizing comfort and back support, this bike is well-built but without the fancy tech bells and whistles.

  • Resistance: 8-level magnetic resistance.
  • Display: LCD monitor showing essential stats.
  • Special features: Compact design, comfortable seat.
  • Ideal for: Seniors or users wanting low-impact, comfortable cycling.

6. Bowflex C6 — The Hybrid Powerhouse

Known for its smooth ride and quiet performance, the Bowflex C6 is compatible with major apps like Peloton, Zwift, and Sufferfest. Its direct-drive system helps simulate outdoor cycling feel and offers precise resistance control.

  • Resistance: Magnetic with 100 levels.
  • Display: Basic LCD with Bluetooth connectivity.
  • Special features: App compatibility, belt-drive system.
  • Ideal for: Cyclists wanting a versatile, durable bike with smart tech access.

Benefits of Regular Use of Exercise Bikes

Beyond convenience and enjoyment, steady use of an exercise bike confers multiple health benefits:

  • Improved cardiovascular health: Boosts heart strength and endurance.
  • Weight management: Burns significant calories efficiently.
  • Muscle toning: Engages legs, glutes, and core muscles.
  • Joint-friendly: Low impact compared to running or jumping.
  • Mental health boost: Releases endorphins, reduces stress.

Practical Tips to Maximize Your Exercise Bike Workout

  • Set goals: Whether calories, distance, or time — track to stay motivated.
  • Warm-up & cool down: Prevent injury and aid recovery by starting and ending sessions gently.
  • Maintain proper form: Adjust the seat height and handlebar to avoid strain.
  • Mix intensities: Alternate between steady rides and high-intensity intervals.
  • Stay hydrated: Keep water close by during workouts.

First-Hand Experience: Why We Trust These Recommendations

Our team personally tested dozens of exercise bikes, scrutinizing factors like comfort, noise level, durability, and tech features over weeks of real-world use. From casual riders craving a quick home workout to seasoned cyclists seeking high-end performance, the above six bikes consistently outperformed competitors in their category.

We also incorporated feedback from Men’s Health readers who regularly use these bikes, ensuring these picks are both expert-approved and community-backed.

Final Thoughts on Choosing Your Perfect Exercise Bike

At the end of the day, the “best” exercise bike depends on your needs, budget, space constraints, and fitness level. Whether you want a feature-packed machine like the Peloton Bike+ or a no-frills compact bike like the Sunny SF-B1805, these six models give you a solid starting point. Invest in quality, enjoy your workouts, and let your bike help you pedal toward your best health.