10 Best Exercise Bikes

The Concept2 BikeErg is a sturdy exercise bike designed for indoor cycling enthusiasts looking for a realistic ride. Its aluminium frame weighs about 26.5 kg, making it durable but still manageable to move around thanks to built-in caster wheels. The air resistance system offers smooth and natural-feeling resistance that adjusts automatically to how hard you pedal, which is great for interval training since the flywheel keeps spinning even when you stop pedalling. This ‘coasting’ feature mimics real cycling well.

You can easily adjust both the seat height and handlebars to suit your body shape, which is important for comfort during longer workouts. The included PM5 monitor tracks your workout stats in real time, like heart rate and time, and connects wirelessly to compatible heart rate belts and apps, helping you monitor progress accurately. It runs on batteries, so no need for a plug socket nearby.

The bike supports users up to 136 kg, which fits most adults, and its size is fairly compact, although it's not designed for easy folding or small storage spaces. At around 31 kg total weight, it’s heavier than some basic models but still portable with the wheels. The air resistance might be noisier compared to magnetic resistance bikes, so it may not be ideal if you need a very quiet workout. The price tends to be higher than simpler exercise bikes, reflecting its quality and performance focus. This bike is suited for those serious about indoor training who want a solid, reliable machine that tracks performance well and feels like real cycling.

The Peloton Bike+ is a high-end exercise bike designed for users who want more than just cycling workouts. It offers magnetic resistance with automatic adjustments, controlled by a smart system called Peloton IQ, which personalizes your training and provides real-time feedback on your form. This makes it especially useful if you like having guided workouts and progress tracking in one device. The bike has a sturdy welded steel frame and supports users up to about 135 kg (297 pounds), fitting riders between 150 cm and 196 cm tall.

Its standout feature is a large, 23.8-inch HD swivel screen that turns 360°, letting you follow various workout types like yoga, strength training, and Pilates besides cycling. This touchscreen enhances versatility but requires a corded power source and a decent amount of space (about 150x58 cm footprint plus clearance). The bike includes extras like an integrated fan, hands-free controls, and a phone tray to keep you comfortable and focused.

The bike is quite heavy (around 80 kg) and demands some self-assembly, which may require two people and about 45 minutes. Also, to access the full workout content and features, you’ll need to subscribe to Peloton’s membership, which is an extra monthly cost. If you want a premium, all-in-one fitness device with personalized coaching and a wide variety of classes, the Peloton Bike+ fits well. For those who prefer a simpler, more portable bike without subscription fees, this might feel like overkill.

The Peloton Cross Training Series Bike is a premium indoor bike designed for users looking for more than just cycling workouts. It features a magnetic resistance system, which offers smooth and quiet adjustments to suit different fitness levels. The bike supports a maximum user weight of about 135 kg (297 pounds), making it suitable for most riders. Its steel frame ensures durability, while the compact footprint (about 150 cm long and 58 cm wide) allows it to fit comfortably in smaller spaces, though you’ll need at least 61 cm of clearance on all sides and a ceiling height of 244 cm for comfortable use.

One standout feature is the 21.5-inch HD swivel touchscreen, which can rotate 360°, allowing you to easily switch between cycling and other workout types like yoga, barre, and Pilates. This versatility makes it a good fit if you want a cross-training experience beyond just pedaling. The touchscreen includes streaming capabilities, stereo speakers, and gamified workouts to keep you motivated. However, to access live and on-demand classes, you must subscribe to the Peloton All-Access Membership, which is an additional monthly cost.

Adjustability covers key aspects like manual resistance control and a well-built steel frame. Assembly can be a bit challenging as it requires two people and about 45 minutes, with some heavy boxes to manage. The bike is powered by a corded electric source, so placement near an outlet is necessary. This bike is an excellent choice for users seeking an interactive, feature-rich exercise bike that supports varied workouts and detailed fitness tracking. It is especially suited for those willing to invest in both equipment and membership to unlock its full potential. However, it requires considerable space, some assembly effort, and ongoing subscription fees, which might not suit everyone looking for a simpler, budget-friendly option.