The 7 Top Exercise Bikes for Indoor Cycle Workouts at Home
Most people don’t love waking up in the early hours to travel to the gym, or find it frustrating trying to find a spin class that has room for them. Enter the at-home indoor cycle bike (colloquially and incorrectly known as the ‘spin bike’, but we’ll clarify that in a moment). Several big names in the fitness world have gym-quality exercise bikes that can fit perfectly into your spare bedroom, basement, or other workout-friendly room of the house. You can opt for an entry-level model and save a ton of cash, or upgrade your home gym with access to streaming workouts and other great features. We break down seven of the best exercise bikes in the category below.
Here’s what we chose for our Top 7 Exercise Bikes of this Year
1. MYX II Fitness Bike –Best Overall Spin Bike: Enhanced adjustability makes it a comfortable fit for riders of all sizes. As one of the more affordable bikes on the list starting at $1399, Myx II offers on and off bike workouts for full body fitness.
2. Stryde Bike– Best for Workout Variety: Distracting your mind during exercise can make for a more enjoyable experience, but many products don’t allow for third party app downloads. With Stryde, you can access most apps on a premium LCD monitor available through a web browser including Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and even the Peloton app.
3. NordicTrack S22i –Best for the Whole Family: If you’re looking for something the whole family can enjoy, look no further than the NordicTrack S22i. It can accommodate riders up to 350 pounds, and, with its wide range of adjustability and multi-grip handlebars, it’s ideal for users of all sizes and builds.
4. Proform Studio Bike Pro 22– Best for the Newbie: Those new to spin bikes need a product that helps you learn how to do things right before you habituate incorrect form. Proform’s Studio Bike Pro 22 provides demand classes ranging from beginner level to pro, and programming automatically adjusts resistance so you can focus.
5. Sole SB900– Best for the Old School Athlete: Not a fan of all the high-tech gadgets that are all the rage? Don’t pay for features you’ll never use. The Sole SB900 makes sure your investment is focused on commercial-grade construction over fancy frills.
6. Echelon EX3– Best on a Budget: At just $799.99, the Echelon EX3 gives you everything you need in a spin bike without breaking the bank. If you already have a tablet or iPad, there’s no need to pay extra for a pricey touchscreen. You’re already equipped for instructor-led training sessions offered through the Echelon Fit app.
7. Peloton Bike / Peloton Bike+– Best Long-Term Investment: If you’re a serious spin fan ready to invest in a high-quality product that’ll provide years of use, Peloton is built to last with its durable, welded steel, powder-coated frame. The technology that comes with your purchase unlocks new secrets around every corner to help you make the most of each workout and keep exercise exciting.
An Important Note: The Difference Between Exercise Bikes and Spin Bikes
Many people use the words “Spin bike” and “indoor cycle” interchangeably, but there’s an important distinction that needs to be made between these exercise bike options. All of the following words are actually trademarked terms owned by Mad Dogg Athletics: SPIN®, Spinning®, Spinner®, and Spin Fitness®. So, anything related to Spinning, whether you’re talking about Spin bikes or Spin classes, actually refers to a specific brand of exercise bikes and indoor cycling classes. In other words, not all indoor cycling is “Spinning,” and not all indoor bikes are Spin bikes, even though this is a common mistake.
What is a Spin Bike?
To the uninitiated, it might seem like all home workout bikes are pretty similar. In reality, the Spin bike has some unique qualities that make it stand out from the crowd. Gym Spin classes have caused quite the fitness revolution in recent years, known for their upbeat music and instructors who keep you pumped—Spin bikes are their hallmark.
Aside from their gym roots, the key difference between the spin bike and a typical stationary bike is the flywheel. The spin bike features a large wheel, usually in the front and separated from the pedals, that provides resistance and momentum to mirror the experience of riding a bike outdoors. These flywheels are usually heavier, weighing in at more than 30 pounds. It’s this unique flywheel setup that delivers the intense workout that all spin bike fanatics love!
Spin Bike vs. Recumbent Bike
Unlike a recumbent bike, the spin bike positions the rider in an upright position. This means you’re getting both an upper and lower body workout. If you have problems like joint pain or mobility limitations, recumbent could be the way to go. However, if your goal is to lose weight and/or gain muscle, the spin bike wins hands-down.
What to Look For in a Spin or Exercise Bike
Here at FitRated, we’ve tried and tested dozens of exercise bikes to uncover the best value models across the price spectrum. From the feature-rich Schwinn AC Performance Plus to the affordable Sunny Health & Fitness Pro Indoor Cycling Bike, we’ve got some great options for breaking a sweat at home. Below you’ll see exercise bikes we’ve reviewed and rated under four key categories:
- Resistance: The best bikes have a large range of resistances for novice and expert athletes alike.
- Support: You want a stable bike that holds its own so you can focus on your workout.
- Materials: The bike’s longevity is dependent on the quality of its materials.
- Technology: Technological innovations can make your biking experience better.
These are the factors that matter in choosing an exercise bike you’ll love for years to come. Now, let’s get to the bikes!
Is a Heavier Flywheel Better?
Bigger isn’t always better. As you’re shopping for a spin bike, seeking out a heavier flywheel isn’t necessarily the right choice. Let’s break it down:
- A heavier flywheel is built to build and maintain momentum. You can expect a smoother ride, but it will require more effort to start and stop the bike. Therefore, if you have joint issues, this may not be the best fit. On the other hand, it’s a great choice if you prefer the feel of an outdoor bike.
- A lighter flywheel is built to spin faster with less effort and can be easier on the knees. It can be the better choice if you engage in high-speed training with little resistance.
Friction Resistance vs. Magnetic Resistance
A spin bike with magnetic resistance uses two powerful magnets that create an eddy current that can be moved closer together or further apart to produce resistance. Friction resistance, on the other hand, uses fabric pads that press against the flywheel to adjust the challenge of your workout.
Since friction resistance means there is actual physical contact between the flywheel and the fabric pads, there is slightly more noise produced. Furthermore, since the pads wear down over time, friction resistance bikes require more maintenance. If either of these downsides are an issue for you, a bike with magnetic resistance may be the way to go. However, if sticking to a tight budget is more important, friction resistance typically comes at a lower cost.
These are the factors that matter in choosing an exercise bike you’ll love for years to come. Now, let’s get to the bikes!
[Note: All ratings are on a 5-point scale, with 5 being the best]
1. MYX II Fitness Bike
Pros:
- Perfect for beginners on a budget: The high number of resistance levels can help target training, while the friction resistance is less expensive to manufacture.
- Resistance training: Combination of friction resistance and heavy flywheel is great for resistance training, although the lack of clipless pedals takes away from some of the glute and hamstring incorporation.
- Personalization: Color options helps buyers customize their machine.
- Easy Storage: With transport wheels and folding capabilities, it’s easy to store the Myx II.
Cons:
- Noise: Friction resistance makes for a less quiet ride.
- No Leaderboard: Lack of a leaderboard reduces the sense of competition.
Of the many competitors looking to propose an affordable alternative to Peloton, the MYX II Fitness bike and its interactive training package is one of the only options that truly undercuts in terms of pricing without severely compromising features and quality somewhere along the way. We’re a big fan of this one, to the point that it is worthy of top rank in this list.
- Resistance: 3.5
- Support: 5
- Materials: 3
- Technology: 5
Resistance
The MYX II Fitness bike uses friction resistance applied to a heavy 41-pound flywheel controlled by a traditional style adjustment knob. While we tend to prefer magnetic resistance over belt drives, the heavier flywheel helps offset some of the issues we’ve seen with other friction bikes.
Support
One of the things we first noted with the MYX II Fitness Bike is its additional bit of adjustability—a real perk for taller riders. Not only do you have the usual fore and aft seat adjustment and vertical handlebar adjustment, but you can also move the adjustable handlebars closer or further from the seat. Good ergonomics make a big difference when getting comfortable on an indoor bike, and it’s nice to see this feature on a bike with a built-in screen. The option to clip-in or use toe cages allows for versatility depending on your preferred method of training.
Materials
The tubular construction of the MYX II bike is nothing fancy, but the bike is meant to be a tool and not a decoration. Heavy steel components mated with its aforementioned heavy flywheel ensures great stability when you’re up and out of the saddle. This bike sports a 350-pound maximum user weight versus the Peloton’s 305 and ProForm’s 205 pounds. The MYX II also brings a more compact design at 3’4″ x 1’7″ which is smaller than its competitors.
Technology
This is where the MYX II Fitness bike excels. A 21.5 inch touchscreen display streams interactive training sessions of all sorts, providing you with ample motivation for your workouts. Want to follow your ride up with a stretching session? Simply pivot the screen away from the bike and choose from the MYX library. There are also training sessions for strength training, HIIT, yoga, and cross training, should you want to mix things up a bit. The best part? The monthly subscription is only $29/month, which is a fair bit cheaper than Peloton or even NordicTrack’s iFit.
Who Should Buy the MYX II Fitness Bike
Anyone in love with Spin classes, or who has been considering going down the Peloton path should give MYX II a closer look. Its only downfall is a short 1-year warranty, but that’s still the same term as what you’d get from its pricey competitor.
2. Stryde Bike
Pros:
- Sprint and Power Training: Great balance of features to support those who like to perform both aerobic and strength workouts.
- Workout Variation: Stryde includes a better console for maximum workout variation with over 500 classes.
- Clipless Pedals: Enjoy great acceleration as full-leg muscle incorporation and aerobic endurance are evenly supported with mid-range flywheel.
Cons:
- App Download Issues: Some consumers complain it’s difficult to download apps.
Photo Credit: Justin Mastine-Frost / FitRated.com
In some respects, the Stryde Bike picks up on a few of the Peloton bike’s key shortcomings. Having its tablet not be locked into a ‘it’s Peloton or it’s a blank screen for you’ scenario opens users up to more freedom, for starters. The downside is the screen does not rotate as others do. Basically, though the android tablet doesn’t access the Google Play store (access is blocked to any screen over 18″), users are still able to download 3rd party apps that are accessible via web browser. That means Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and even Peloton apps are available to load onto the Stryde Bike. Zwift—another popular cycling app we often mention—cannot be accessed, as it needs a Google Play connection to download. But the good news here is users can ride with with or without apps and there’s no subscription required. This is a huge change to the game, as both Peloton and NordicTrack (the biggest players in the streaming training space) have blocked this functionality on their screens.
- Resistance: 5
- Support: 4
- Materials: 4
- Technology: 5
Resistance
Same story as the main competition here, the Stryde Bike uses magnetic resistance, adjusted in a 1-100% control knob style that’s familiar to any indoor cycling class enthusiast. It’s a simple solution, that’s only downfall is that there isn’t the ability to have automatic resistance control during workout sessions like what’s on the NordicTrack S22i. Should that be a deal-breaker for anyone? No.
Support
Ergos of the Stryde Bike are as good as you’d expect from any spin bike with a built-in screen, with the only feature lacking is the ability to move the handlebars further or closer to the seat. That said, unless you’re very tall or very short (well north of 6 feet or below 5) you should have no issues getting comfortable.
Materials
From a quality standpoint, Stryde set out to match its more expensive competitors, and overall they seem to have done just that. the bike feels stable and well built, and all contact surfaces are at a quality level that’s more than acceptable for the category.
Technology
In sticking with the current model made popular by Peloton, Stryde motivates its users both through engaging and motivating personal trainers from across the continental US, as well as through the competitive challenge that comes with the use of a Leaderboard for its community. On the instructor side of things, partnering with some of the country’s best indoor cycling studios was a very smart move—one of the key elements that gets people hooked on the studio models is the quality of instruction. Peloton, SoulCycle, Flywheel, CycleBar and others created their devout followings by hiring top-level instructors, and though Stryde turned to more boutique regional studios, by all accounts they’ve landed on the right formula. It’s also a rare contender with an unlocked screen, meaning you can also tap into other training sources as you see fit. A big upside is that users don’t have to pay a subscription to use this bike to its fullest capacity. The downside is that the screen does not rotate.
Who Should Buy the Stryde Bike?
This thing ticks all the right boxes for a lot of folks with the only shortcoming being that this is a new company, leaving us with questions about their staying power. Then again, we said that about Peloton, and look at them now. The Stryde Bike will save you money in the long run due to its cheaper monthly subscriptions, and gives you that break option to just zone out to something different if you’re in the mood for a ride without the lead of an instructor. It’s win-win. Really.
3. NordicTrack S22i
Pros:
- Large Touchscreen: It’s easy to see and interact with the 22-inch swivel touchscreen.
- Great for Physical Limitations: The adjustable seat reduces pain and the chance of injury. Paired with a compatible resistance system that reduces friction and clip-in pedals to reduce knee pain, people with physical limitations are well accommodated.
- Live Trainer: Live trainer can control resistance, incline, and decline.
Cons:
- Speakers Hard to Hear: Speakers are on the back of the console, making them hard to hear.
- Hitting Screen when Moving: While the transport wheels make it easy to move, the large screen is easy to hit against walls and furniture.
The NordicTrack Commercial S22i Studio Cycle is near the of the food chain when it comes to both functionality and features, as it adds a significant 22-inch high definition touchscreen display and access to iFit interactive training, packaged into a very well-executed and sturdy machine. Two big plusses for this bike include the 360-degree screen rotation and top-flight warrant.
- Resistance: 5
- Support: 4
- Materials: 5
- Technology: 5
Resistance
The S22i uses magnetic resistance instead of a belt drive. It’s smooth, quiet and digitally controlled. The high spec bike offers 24 digital resistance levels, which can also be controlled by the live instructors when participating in iFit classes.
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Support
The NordicTrack S22i is well suited to a wide range of riders; its commercial grade frame is good for riders up to 350 lbs, and it can be adjusted in a wide range of directions in order to find the perfect fit. Like much of the competition the seat is a little firm, but this tends to be the way across all indoor cycles out there. The bike is equipped with a multi-grip handlebar which is great for users all sizes and builds.
Materials
NordicTrack has always maintained a good reputation for build quality, and the S22i is no exception. Other than its high-tech display, there’s little to nothing on this bike that’s likely to require any kind of maintenance as it ages. Its frame is built to commercial specification, and by using a frictionless resistance system, it saves on wearable components as well. The S22i also sports a 10-year warranty on the frame with two years for parts and one for labor.
Technology
On top of its touchscreen display and interactive training, the S22i is also a winner on account of another clever feature. It is one of very few indoor cycles to offer a variable incline and decline — +20% and -10% respectively. We also like the 360-degree rotation of the screen, which allows users the opportunity to do floorwork with dumbbells.
Who Should Buy the NordicTrack S22i?
If you’re a fan of cutting edge tech and want something that’s up to par with the highly publicized Peloton Bike, but have more faith in a longstanding fitness brand than a startup, the S22i would be the perfect choice. What’s more, its price of entry is a touch lower than the Peloton—a nice bonus.
4. ProForm Studio Bike Pro 22
Pros:
- Good for Long Runs: Excellent option for non-athletes who anticipate long runs as they’re facilitated well by a lighter flywheel, a resistance system that doesn’t hold friction, and a lower number of resistance levels that are geared toward more regimented athletes.
- Large Touchscreen, Low Cost: Cheapest product in this roundup with a large touchscreen.
Cons:
- Not Ideal for Power Training: Worst option on this roundup for power training due to lack of clipless pedals, magnetic resistance, and lighter flywheel.
- Low Weight Capacity: At just 250 lbs. the weight capacity is low compared to other options on the market.
Freshly updated for 2020, the new Proform Studio Bike Pro 22 is effectively a slightly more affordable version of the NordicTrack S22i, without its incline/decline functionality, priced at about $500 less. This recent update makes this bike a huge value in the market as the competition heats up, and is a rock-solid choice for those who want the comfort of an established brand, without the sticker shock that comes with the NordicTrack.
- Resistance: 4
- Support: 4
- Materials: 4
- Technology: 5
Resistance
While nothing out of the ordinary for the price and category, the Studio Bike Pro 22 gets the job done with ease. Rather than a 0-100% adjustable resistance control, the Studio Bike Pro22 has 24 digital levels of resistance, which limits variability, but at the same time creates more clear and quantifiable levels to your adjustment.
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Support
Once again simple and straightforward here. You get road bike style ergonomics, and a comfortable yet compact cycling seat. The bike is quite well made, and feels very well planted even when riding out of the saddle.
Materials
ProForm rides along the same lines as NordicTrack in terms of materials quality, as the two are actually sister companies under the Icon Fitness umbrella. Not only do you get a bigger 22-inch touchscreen on the new model, but said screen also swivels 180 degrees. Yes, some other bikes such as the NordicTrack S22i swivel 360 degrees, but the older fixed models which offered no movement are quickly going the way of the dinosaur. One potential downside is this bike’s 250-pound maximum user weight, which is a full 100 pounds less than that of the NordicTrack S22i.
Technology
The streaming of iFit classes is the name of the game here, and this is an area where the ProForm Studio Bike Pro does not compromise. Classes of all sorts are delivered via its HD touchscreen display, and the diversity of class offerings is quite impressive. There are as many options for beginners as there are for veterans, as well as a ton of great road and mountain biking routes. With any selection, the programming will automatically adjust your resistance, keeping you focused on pushing through the class. There is a 30-Day iFIT Family Membership included with your purchase.
Who Should Buy the ProForm Studio Bike Pro
This bike is a prime option for those who like the sounds of the NordicTrack S22i, but who aren’t ready to spend that kind of money. You get a very similar bike with the same tech experience and warranty.
5. Sole SB900
Pros:
- Good Feature Package for the Price: Although equal in price to the EX3, the SB900 rises above with a console and better feature package for a diverse range of consumers.
- Leg Training on a Budget: Best suited product for full leg training capability on a budget.
- Tablet Holder: Although the screen is small, the tablet holder attaches to the handlebars to allow you to use technology you already have.
Cons:
- Hard to See Screen: No forward/backward screen adjustments can make it hard to see the screen.
Getting back to basics here, the Sole SB900 is the perfect answer for someone that just wants to hop on and ride without the distraction of technology and programming. Hop on, set your resistance, and go — that’s the way things roll with this affordably priced unit.
- Resistance: 5
- Support: 4
- Materials: 5
- Technology: 0
Resistance
Whisper-quiet magnetic resistance is yet again the name of the game here, and with the SB900 you’re getting one of the most affordable bikes out there with this technology.
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Support
Adjustability and overall comfort is once again quite solid with the Sole SB900, once again earning it high marks. Good for riders up to 300 lbs, it’s also one of the bikes in this list with the most comfortable seats for an indoor cycle.
Materials
The SB900 is very well engineered for the money, and is backed by a very respectable warranty too. Its commercial-grade steel frame has a lifetime warranty, whereas other components are covered for 3 years.
Technology
Targeting riders that aren’t after a high-tech bike, there’s really nothing to speak of here.
Who Should Buy the Sole SB900?
This is a killer option for those on a budget who are prioritizing build quality and durability over the inclusion of high-tech gadgetry. It’s not for everyone, but it’s still a smart choice for under $1,000.
6. Echelon Smart Connect Bike EX3
Pros:
- Low-Impact Speed Training: Cheapest product on this roundup for the athlete training for speed.
- Compact: Compact construction makes it easy to fit in smaller spaces.
Cons:
- No Console: No console means limited workouts without a separate tablet or phone.
- Limitations in Power Training: While clipless pedals incorporate more leg muscles, the avid power trainer will be better suited with the equally-priced SB900 with its heavier flywheel.
Refreshed extensively for 2019, the Smart Connect Bike EX3 is a solid option for those that want a high-quality exercise bike without the added costs that come with high-tech screens built in.
- Resistance: 5
- Support: 4
- Materials: 5
- Technology: 2
Resistance
Magnetic resistance is the name of the game here, and with the Echelon EX3 you get a broad range of 32 levels of resistance. In training along with programs in the Echelon Fit App (using your tablet in the built-in holder), you’ll see that even a well-seasoned cyclist will have to hustle to fight the higher resistance ranges of this bike (not to worry, you can go low-resistance too).
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Support
The Echelon EX3 is highly adjustable in its bars, seat, etc., allowing it to fit a wide range of users. There have been occasional complaints about saddle soreness, but when it comes to this style of bike, that’s fairly systemic for the category. Its pedals are also compatible with SPD clips, for those using the EX3 for off-season cycling training.
Materials
With sturdy steel construction, the bike offers generally well-executed surfaces. With a 28-pound flywheel, we would note that the Sole SB900 brings 48 pounds and the MYX II 41 pounds. As a rule, heavier flywheels ensure a smooth ride and with less noise. A first ride will quickly make you realize that this isn’t an entry-level bike despite its price being just north of $1,000. Buyers should also note this bike brings a 12-month limited warranty, which is significantly shorter than that offered by the others.
Technology
Featuring similar class structure like real-time feedback, this product is a great Peloton alternative. On the bike itself there isn’t much to report; the bulk of the EX3’s tech comes in the form of the Echelon Fit app. The app is packed with functionality, including instructor-led training sessions and scenic rides filmed in stunning locations from around the globe.
Who Should Buy the Echelon Smart Connect Bike EX3?
As noted above, this bike is for everyone from entry-level to experienced rider, though specifically for those who would rather save money and use their own iPad/tablet during their cardio workout rather than having a large screen built into their exercise bike.
7. The Peloton Bike / Peloton Bike+
Pros:
- Aerobic Endurance: Best overall product in this roundup for aerobic endurance for everyone from people with physical limitations to athletes with clipless pedals for safety, comfort, and acceleration; adjustable seat and handlebars for versatility; and a lighter flywheel combined with magnetic resistance for smooth acceleration.
- Versatility in Resistance Training: High number of resistance levels is excellent for beginners and serious athletes monitoring precise progressions.
Cons:
- Programming Limitations: Limited programming without subscription can make exercise boring.
Lastly comes the mighty Peloton. It’s safe to say the Peloton bike started a fitness revolution of sorts, and we’ve just gotten news of the bike getting a refresh in the form of the Peloton Bike+. The Bike+ will gain a host of new features, whereas the classic Peloton Bike stays as-is, albeit with a more friendly sticker price. Down to $1,495 from $1895 (still including delivery and assembly), the Peloton bike is now much more competitive price wise when compared to the NordicTrack S22i with only a couple of minor shortcomings that most will overlook for the sake of the Peloton experience.
- Resistance: 4
- Support: 4
- Materials: 5
- Technology: 5
Resistance
The Peloton is a magnet bike, which means its resistance comes in the form of magnets rather than friction. With magnetic resistance, the most noticeable difference is that the bike is much quieter when pedaling compared to belt drives. If you haven’t tried it before, you’ll probably marvel at the lack of noise.
As for the resistance itself, we found it to be quite responsive, and you can easily adjust it with a simple knob. Turn right to increase the difficulty or left to make it easier.
Support
Ergonomics of the Peloton Bike and Peloton Bike+ are on point as you would expect from a class leader. As an added perk that falls into that category, the large HD touchscreen on the Peloton Bike+ has more adjustability that improves overall functionality of the bike.
Materials
The Peloton is sturdy in construction, thanks to a carbon steel and aluminum frame, designed to “deliver super smooth and nearly silent pedaling”. It also has a dumbbell holder and a water bottle holder.
Technology
The technology on the Peloton is what makes it stand out from the majority of the competition; t his bike has it all. First, it comes with a sweat-proof 22″ HD touchscreen mounted in the front. The screen has built-in speakers, a microphone, and a camera for you to ride with friends. It’s also WiFi connected and supports Bluetooth audio and wireless ANT+ heart rate straps, a llowing you to connect your WiFi or Bluetooth enabled device including a heart rate monitor or smartwatch. It’s this configuration that led NordicTrack to update the S15i the way they did, as well as to push into more interactive training options.
The Peloton Bike+ adds an additional layer to this by delivering new content that focuses on total body workouts—an area where NordicTrack’s iFit had the upper hand until now. Its screen now swivels, allowing users to work out off the bike and follow along with cross training, stretching, yoga, Bootcamp, and other types of live and streaming programming. It can also seamlessly sync up with your Apple Watch for increased tracking capability.
The Peloton has all of these features so you can connect to the Peloton online platform. This allows you to watch live classes, view recorded classes, or even host your own! You can see your teacher, other students, and even their current metrics. There are tons of other features too, like prerecorded celebrity-hosted classes and following others. Of course, this online platform comes at a price of $39 per month.
Who Should Buy the Peloton?
With recent price adjustments the Peloton Bike is much more competitive that it once was, but it remains the choice for those enamored with the more hardcore indoor cycling class world.
Our Final Verdict
As with anything, when you’re shopping for a new exercise or Spin bike, you’re trying to find the features you need at the best possible price. Every bike has its pros and cons, and all seven of these bikes occupy and dominate their own niche. However, if we divide the bikes by price range (low, medium, and high), three bikes rise to the top:
Low Price Range: Echelon EX3
If you’re strapped for cash, or just want an introduction to indoor cycling, the Echelon EX3 will help you enjoy getting into working out at home, without the worry that your bike is going to fall apart on you.
Mid Price Range: Myx II
A step up in build quality, a heavy-duty flywheel, and a rock-solid warranty give the Myx II an upper hand in the mid-range. The best part being you’ll still keep your price of entry below $1,400.
High Price Range: NordicTrack S22i
The S22i is a high-quality bike with enough functionality and features to rival the Peloton, though at a much more reasonable cost overall. This is why we’re leaning towards the S22i as our favorite premium exercise bike right now.
Why Trust FitRated
FitRated relies on a diverse team of fitness fanatics with expertise ranging from senior fitness and personal training to bodybuilding, cycling, and much more. We analyze the key components of exercise equipment to algorithmically assign objective value while factoring in subjective data backed by experience and credentials you can count on. Our number one goal is to apply our knowledge toward recommending the best products suited for the unique needs of the user.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What muscles do spin bikes work/tone?
Spin bikes work the quads, glutes, hamstrings, and calf muscles, as well as abs and lower back. Depending upon the movements while riding, forearms may also be involved. - What are the best spin bike brands?
Peloton, NordicTrack, MYX, Stryde, ProForm, Echelon, and Sole. - Is Peloton Bike/Bike+ a spin bike or a stationary bike?
Spin bikes fall into the broader category of stationary bikes. What sets them apart from the others is that spin bikes have heavier flywheels which are connected to the pedals by way of a chain. To that extent, the Peloton models are spin bikes. - How should I maintain a spike bike at home?
The most important thing you can do is keep the bike clean and free of dust build-up. Wiping it down with a damp cloth and placing it on a mat will help considerably. Check the bike’s frame for loose parts and tighten if needed after riding, and be sure to check the pedals and toe clips periodically. - What are some downsides to spin bikes?
The only real downside is they’re designed primary for high-speed spin classes and don’t work as well for other forms of cycling. - How much do spin bikes cost?
Much like any other equipment, prices vary. Good used models can be found online for $300 to $500 while newer models run as high as $3,000.