Strengthen your legs and condition your heart, all from the comfort of home. (Peloton)
As indoor cycling continues its popularity boom, choosing the best workout bike is key for benefiting from its joint-friendly, low-impact benefits. Modern home exercise bikes have come a long way from their old-school predecessors, now loaded with advanced features that elevate your workout experience.
Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy streaming workouts, precise resistance adjustments and modern conveniences (like built-in fans and Bluetooth connectivity) that were once unheard of — all while torching calories and improving health without stepping out the door.
"Regular cycling can help prevent cardiovascular disease by increasing cardiovascular fitness, which strengthens the heart and lowers resting heart rate," says John Gallucci Jr., a physical therapist and CEO of JAG Physical Therapy. He adds, "Cycling can also help with weight loss, increase muscle strength and even improve your mental health."
Cycling helps work both aerobic and anaerobic exercise into your fitness routine for greater cardio health benefits, explains Caitlin Tucker, director of fitness at Pritikin Longevity Center. Additionally, cycling is a good option for those who have lower-body joint pain or who prefer lower-impact exercise. In fact, research published in 2024 found that individuals who regularly engaged in bicycling over the course of their lives (using data starting in adolescence and continuing past 50 years of age) were less likely to develop knee osteoarthritis over time. The benefit appeared cumulative (so the earlier you start cycling, the better), but all cycling appeared to have a beneficial effect.
Given all the benefits, it's no surprise that home-based indoor cycling has become a go-to for individuals of all fitness levels and abilities, combining convenience, health benefits and the ability to skip the gym. And while an exercise bike is no small investment (the ones on our list range from roughly $300 to more than $1,700), it can ultimately save you money compared to an ongoing gym membership. Plus, there's the undeniable perk of being able to work out from the comfort of your own home.
But with so many workout bikes on the market, it can be tough to figure out which ones are truly worth your hard-earned money. To make your decision easier, the team at Yahoo Life put 15 of the most popular workout bikes to the test to identify the best workout bike for 2025. After months of rigorous use, here's what we discovered.
Update, July 3, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability. Our No. 1 pick for best workout bike remains unchanged.
Type: Studio cycle | Resistance type: Magnetic | Dimensions: 59" x 23" x 53" | Weight: 135 lbs. | Weight capacity: 297 lbs. | Connectivity: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth | Membership required: Yes | Standout features: Livestreamed classes, large resistance range, wide screen
When choosing our "best overall" bike, we had to consider a wide range of factors including price, ease of use, durability, integrated technology and even overall enjoyment. While we tested a number of truly high-quality bikes, few could check the boxes as well as the Peloton Indoor Exercise Bike. This machine has it all (including a 21.5-inch integrated HD touchscreen), allowing users to get the feel of a studio cycling experience at home, with new classes added near-daily. This, in particular, makes Peloton stand out. You can browse classes by preferred music genre, fitness level, length of workout and instructor. You can also compete against other riders — the integrated monitor tracks your performance and compares it to others who have completed the same workout — making it a good fit for natural-born competitors. While access to these classes and onscreen features requires a monthly subscription ($44/month), the bike can still be used without it, offering flexibility for different needs.
While the Peloton gets considerable praise for its streaming workouts, the bike offers much more than that. It has precise resistance settings, allowing you to track your progress and fine-tune your effort over time. It also boasts a sleek, space-saving design with front wheels for easy relocation. Its compact frame fits well in most spaces, whether in a home gym or a bedroom. The All-Access subscription also includes a wide range of workout programs, from yoga to strength training, so you aren't limited to only bike-based routines.
Note that the bike requires special cycling shoes, and learning to clip in and out can take a bit of practice, but once you've mastered it, getting going is quick and easy.
There are a few downsides worth noting. The small, relatively firm seat may require a cushion for added comfort, and the two water bottle holders tend to be fragile — we even had one break during testing — a complaint echoed by other users.
Despite these minor drawbacks, Peloton’s indoor exercise bike remains a top choice for its versatility and ability to consistently deliver engaging, effective workouts. Plus, at $1,145, it's less expensive than some of the other bikes on our list that offer similar tech-forward features. So certainly, it's not a low-cost investment, but it's a good buy for all the benefits you get to enjoy.
Type: Studio cycle | Resistance type: Flywheel and drivetrain — fusion drive belt system | Dimensions: 45" x 19.75" x 56" | Weight: 123.5 lbs. | Weight capacity: 350 lbs. | Connectivity: SpinPower Performance Crank has Bluetooth connectivity | Membership required: No, but a free, 30-day trial is included | Standout features: 40 lb. flywheel and drivetrain offer road-bike-like experience, SpinPower Performance Crank connects to the app to measure power output, no electricity required, fits individuals from 4'11" to 6'5" tall
Studio-style bikes are often called "spin bikes" because they were originally developed by the OG company — Spinning. Even several decades later, Spinning is still at the forefront of the industry, creating some of the best studio-style bikes on the market, both for commercial and in-home use.
One thing to note: The Spinning company makes bikes that align with the original intent of indoor cycling workouts — to mimic the outdoor riding experience. The technology they offer isn't in the form of an integrated screen, streaming workouts or Bluetooth connectivity. Rather, their technology comes in the bike itself — how the flywheel and drive chain, along with the crank arms, work to offer a ride that feels like you're grabbing your ten-speed and heading out to the road.
The Blade Ion Connected Spinner Bike may be a little pricier than some of the other options on this list, but for serious outdoor cyclists who want a bike that allows them to train inside, this bike comes out the clear winner. One feature in particular stood out to our tester — the SpinPower Performance Crank. When you connect the crank (which is designed to work with Bluetooth and ANT+ devices) to the Spinning app, you're able to track and measure real-time power output throughout your ride. "I like that you can see your power measurements and make adjustments in real time as you are taking the classes," our tester said.
The bike also requires no electricity to run, so you can set it up anywhere. With the built-in device holder, you can simply download the Spinning app (you receive a 30-day trial free with purchase of the bike) to your tablet or phone and follow along with hundreds of workouts led by Spinning-certified instructors. Our tester actually preferred this flexibility over having to use a built-in screen. "The only con was that the instructor videos seemed small on iPhone," she said. However, she enjoyed the classes and found them easy to follow, noting that "the rides went by fast" and that she plans to subscribe to the app following her trial.
Our tester also noted how quiet and smooth the bike rides. The 40-pound flywheel and fusion drive belt system allow for precise control over resistance with a ride that closely mimics riding a bike outside.
The bike is also straightforward and easy to assemble. With the help of instruction videos, our tester had it ready to go quickly, although she noted it's definitely a two-person job as the bike itself is heavy.
Type: Studio cycle | Resistance type: Flywheel and drivetrain — fusion drive belt system | Dimensions: 44.8" x 21.26" x 54.37" | Weight: 109 lbs. | Weight capacity: 275 lbs. | Connectivity: No | Membership required: No | Standout features: 36 lb. flywheel and drivetrain offer road-bike-like experience, no electricity required, fits individuals from 4'11" to 6'5" tall
If you want a bike that's very similar to the Spinning Blade Ion Connected Spinner but at a more affordable price point, the Aero Connected Spinner Bike is an excellent option. There are a few differences — it doesn't come with the SpinPower Performance Crank to measure your power output, and its flywheel is a little lighter at 36 pounds compared to 40 pounds. This won't make a discernible difference to the majority of riders, but to serious cyclists, a heavier flywheel may provide for a smoother ride overall, particularly at higher resistance levels.
That said, this under-$1,000 model offers a fantastic outdoorlike ride with a wide range of seat and handlebar adjustments that help accommodate users from 4'11" to 6'5" tall. Our tester is an avid indoor cyclist with a membership to a local cycling studio, and she said this bike is tempting her to pause her in-studio membership. And while she admitted the bike is "pretty analog" in that it doesn't come with a built-in HD screen, she said she actually found herself preferring this. "I kind of like this feature as it makes it very versatile to your own preferences, and if you want you can simply hop on the bike and start riding tech-free. Some days I need to get away from all the gadgets and trackers," she said.
However, the bike does have an integrated device mount and our tester said she often put it to use, logging into her own workout apps and also trying Spinning's version. "I've done a few videos and they seem mostly comparable to Peloton's," she said. "There isn't a 'live class' feature so if that's something that motivates you I would maybe use a different app platform than Spinning's. But the instructors were clear, positive, high-energy and I felt I got a great workout following along."
In terms of the bike itself, our tester said it feels like a home version of a studio-level commercial bike. She pointed specifically to the dual-sided pedals as being a "huge perk" so she can use her SPD cleat shoes to clip in or just ride with regular sneakers. She also said, "Handlebar grip is fantastic and the resistance knob has the feature of pressing straight down to stop the bike, just like the ones at my spin studio." She also found that connecting the cadence monitor and heart rate armband (which come with the bike) was "easy and straightforward — worked on the first try."
Truly, our tester found very little to complain about. So if you're looking for a bike that feels like a commercial studio bike and gives a ride similar to an outdoor experience, and you aren't looking for tech-heavy bells and whistles like the Peloton or BowFlex models on this list, you just might be in the market for the Aero Connected Spinner Bike.
Type: Studio cycle | Resistance type: Flywheel and drivetrain with brake pad friction | Dimensions: 45.3" x 21.9" x 49.2" | Weight: 68 lbs. | Weight capacity: 270 lbs. | Connectivity: No | Membership required: No | Standout features: Lighter weight makes it easier to move around
If what you're looking for in a home workout bike is a straightforward get-on-and-go design at an affordable price, the Yosuda YB001 Indoor Stationary Cycling Bike might just be a good option. It comes in at just over $300 but offers a few features you might expect on a slightly more expensive model, like a 35-pound flywheel and brake pad resistance that's intended to make the ride feel more like hopping on a road bike.
Our tester noted how easy it was to put together — it took her about 20 minutes and she found the process to be simple with minimal steps. She especially loved that everything was included in the box and no additional tools were needed. However, she pointed out that you may want two people to move the unassembled bike to the room where you want it located, as she said she couldn't move the 68-pound box herself.
The bike itself is lighter-weight than many of the other studio-style bikes on this list, and with the slightly lighter flywheel, the result is a somewhat less sturdy riding experience, especially at higher resistance levels. For larger or heavier individuals, this is likely to feel more pronounced than for smaller or lighter people — our tester found the bike to be sturdy and well made, although not at the level of the commercial bikes she uses at her local cycling studio.
There's also some confusion about the bike's weight capacity, as the website states it's 330 pounds, but in smaller print it notes a 270-pound upper limit. Our tester fell well below both weights, so we couldn't easily test the capacity, although we feel it's better to err on the side of caution and go with the lower limit.
It's important to note that this bike comes with flat pedals with connected shoe cages for riding with sneakers rather than SPD cleats. This could be a pro or con, depending on your personal preference. However, if you prefer riding with cleats, the pedals themselves have a standard-size thread, so you can simply purchase different pedals and replace the ones that come with the bike.
You won't get many high-tech features with the YB001 — no integrated touchscreen monitor — but there is a basic LCD screen with real-time information on time, distance, speed and calories burned. It also has a tablet holder so you can log into your favorite apps using your own screen.
Our tester found the bike to be "good for what you pay for," and she liked that the handlebars and seat were easily adjustable to accommodate users of varying heights. It's also compact and easy to wheel around, especially given its slightly lighter construction (compared to other products we tested).
Type: Studio cycle | Resistance type: Magnetic | Dimensions: 48" x 60" x 53" | Weight: 158 lbs. | Weight capacity: 325 lbs. | Connectivity: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth | Membership required: No | Standout features: Leaning feature, integrated speakers, cupholders, heart rate armband and 3 lb. dumbbells included
The Bowflex VeloCore 22 IC brings the cycling class experience home with impressive execution, earning its spot as our top choice for the best studio-style workout bike with an integrated touchscreen. Yes, that means it trumps our "best overall" Peloton pick if you're specifically looking for a high-tech immersive experience. Granted, you'll also be paying more for the extra bells and whistles (which some people may not want), which is why it didn't end up grabbing the top spot.
This bike pairs with the optional JRNY subscription (two months are included free with purchase), providing high-definition instructor-led studio-style workouts, scenic rides, self-guided programs and off-bike full-body classes like yoga, strength training and Pilates. Its dual-sided pedals provide flexibility, allowing you to clip in or use standard sneakers.
The VeloCore has a sleek frame with handles and a seat that are easy to adjust. It also offers a unique leaning feature that makes it more akin to riding an outdoor bike — it moves from side to side, and if you're "turning," you can lean to the side you're moving toward to work additional muscles in your core. Our tester (who also owns a Peloton Bike+, the upgraded version of the Peloton Bike we tested for this article) said this is "the most distinctive part" of the bike. "It makes cycling more dynamic. ... It could make cycling more enticing for anyone who thinks it's 'boring,'" she said. However, if you don't like this feature, you can set the bike to "stationary" mode. Our tester also noted that if you want to use the leaning feature, it's important to set the bike up in a space with enough area to allow for the additional movement.
Overall our tester determined that the bike is "very solid and smooth," noting that the integrated screen and JRNY workouts provide "[good] variety between scenic rides, instructor rides, entertainment apps and third-party app integration." She added that it's a tech-forward bike with lots of options for in-workout metric tracking and entertainment. "It integrates with Peloton and Zwift apps, and you can access Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ and Prime Video." You will, however, need your own subscriptions to log in and view the content.
The bike also comes with a Bluetooth heart rate monitor so you can accurately track your intensity level in real time. The touchscreen allows you to easily flip between the main metrics panel and other views (like your preferred entertainment). "You can control instructor volume separate from music and other ride cues, which is also nice," our tester said. This means if you'd rather pay more attention to your Netflix show than your instructor's commentary, you can turn down the instruction while turning up your show.
As someone who is familiar with the Peloton Bike+ and Peloton workouts, our tester noted that the instructor-led content in the JRNY app isn't quite as varied or engaging, but you can use the Peloton app with the VeloCore bike if desired. And our tester noted that the VeloCore bike might actually be sturdier than the Peloton Bike+ with the added leaning feature that Peloton lacks. Really, if you're on the fence between the two products, it comes down to which features you want more. Just note the difference in monthly pricing — JRNY costs $20/month while Peloton's All-Access membership costs $44/month. Also, the VeloCore bike costs more than the standard Peloton Bike, but considerably less than the Peloton Bike+ ($2,495).
Other users echo the positive feedback our tester provided, with many highlighting the VeloCore's versatility and performance. A five-star Amazon reviewer states, "I wish I could have given this bike 6 Stars," continuing, "Every part just feels solid and well-made. All of the moving parts such as the lean mechanism works well without sticking or jamming. I did a lot of research before purchasing, and in terms of features, quality, and subscription content, this Bowflex bike easily won over Peloton and other brands."
The only downside about this bike is the speaker. Our tester wasn't wild about its quality, feeling that it should have been more robust for a bike at this price point.
Type: Studio cycle | Resistance type: Magnetic | Dimensions: 42" x 34.5" x 9.75" | Weight: 97 lbs. | Weight capacity: 330 lbs. | Connectivity: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth | Membership required: No | Standout features: Customizable workouts, wireless voice control with the app, water bottle holder, auto-connect device mount
While the Stamina Müüv Bike doesn't have an integrated HD screen like many other smart bikes, it has a number of features that make its sale price ($700) a great buy for those who want a tech-forward bike without the hefty price tag. Namely, the bike's smart mount automatically syncs with your phone or tablet when you set it on the bike, logging you into the Müüv app (available on the Apple App Store and Google Play) for you to select and follow along with free and personalized audio workouts. The app also integrates with other entertainment apps, like Netflix, Hulu and Disney+, so you can watch your favorite shows while following along with a Müüv workout.
Our tester found that the workouts provide plenty of variety, and accessing them via the app on a personal device makes it simple to switch programs between riders. "The interface is user-friendly, helping this bike appeal to a wide range of ages," she said. You can also sync your Bluetooth-enabled heart rate monitor, fitness tracker or smartwatch to the Müüv app to get a more personalized workout experience. Based on your real-time intensity level, the Müüv coach will adjust its prompts and make suggestions to increase or decrease resistance or RPMs or to change your position on the bike. You can also quickly adjust the intensity level by tapping the "easier" or "harder" button on the app for an immediate change in difficulty. You can even elect to use voice commands to make changes, telling the app to go easier or harder as you exercise. Over time, as the program learns your fitness level and preferences, the app will build better workouts to suit your needs. "The workouts offer a lot of room for variation, and accessing it on an individual device through the app makes it easy to change programs from one rider to the next," our tester said.
You can elect not to use the Müüv app and to instead connect to the app of your choice. Or you can choose to go analog and just hop on and ride. This was a benefit our tester appreciated. "I've had a NordicTrack and found it cumbersome to switch between profiles and I didn't care for the app/coaching. This device offers more flexibility and easily adapts to different users," she said. "Older users may choose to ride the bike like a traditional exercise bike, while younger or more tech-savvy users might get more use out of the Smart Mount and associated workout apps." Ultimately, it's as smart as you want it to be.
A happy five-star Amazon reviewer agrees that it's a great bike, calling it the "perfect easy to use at home bike." They add, "We wanted an at home cycle bike to cross train and this has all the functions without the high price tag of monthly fees. I love that I can get on and ride and just do my own thing, or I can use one of the already designed programs with music attached."
Type: Upright | Resistance type: Air | Dimensions: 48" x 24" x 60" | Weight: 57 lbs. | Weight capacity: 350 lbs. | Connectivity: Bluetooth | Membership required: No | Standout features: Adjustable seat, 10 built-in workouts, phone holder
The Concept2 BikeErg earned its spot as the best air bike due to its straightforward design and high-quality air-powered resistance system. There aren't many tech-forward bells and whistles with this bike — it has a classic look with a simple digital monitor that delivers basic metrics, like time spent working out and calories burned.
In fact, our tester called the bike "bare-bones" but said that's part of its charm. "It comes with a performance monitor that's Bluetooth compatible so you can connect a device or an app like Zwift," she said. Concept2 also has its own app called ErgData where you can log your workouts and compare performances, but it's not required to use the bike. While there are no streaming or instructor-led workouts, the bike has 10 built-in programmed workouts you can easily follow along with. It also has a device holder, so you can use your own tablet or phone to connect to the apps of your choice.
If you're used to a bike with magnetic resistance, an air bike like this one may take some getting used to. The resistance builds based on your own power and RPMs, with the integrated fan creating the resistance as you ride. This makes it an excellent choice for high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or short bursts of cardio between strength training exercises. The bike also offers a damper with five settings that can be used to increase or decrease the intensity as needed.
The bike's construction is high-quality and sturdy as well, supporting up to 350 pounds. "There's no wobbling, but there is a slight vibration from the fan," our tester said, adding, "Because it's an air bike, it is pretty noisy. It's not obnoxiously loud, but you're not going to be quietly riding this while other people in the house are sleeping."
The brand is popular in CrossFit circles, and the bike is designed to provide an intense, straightforward workout. If you're in the market for something simple, this is it. As our tester said, "You could easily hop on and just ride it."
Type: Recumbent | Resistance type: Magnetic | Dimensions: 68" x 24" x 53.4"| Weight: 114 lbs. | Weight capacity: 350 lbs. | Connectivity: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi | Membership required: No | Standout features: Comfortable seat, silent operation, auto-adjusted resistance levels
Recumbent bikes are a great option for people who need added back support during a workout. The NordicTrack Commercial R35 Recumbent Bike, our top recumbent bike pick, is packed with features to deliver a modern workout while still delivering the cushioning and positioning you need. Our tester found this bike to be more comfortable than other recumbents that were tested, and very similar in function to commercial recumbent bikes available at gyms and fitness centers.
The bike's 14-inch smart HD touchscreen is a big benefit. It's easy to connect to Wi-Fi, and you can quickly log into entertainment apps (with your own subscriptions) like Netflix and Amazon Prime. The screen also comes integrated with the iFit service for streaming workouts. A 30-day trial of the iFit app is included with purchase. Our tester said the iFit workouts are "high quality," and the bike's screen does an excellent job of clearly displaying the videos. During instructor-led programs, the resistance levels auto-adjust based on the workout or terrain the trainer is cycling on. "That's handy," our tester said. "I also love the Bluetooth integration with my headphones so I can ride and watch without worrying about waking up my family." However, if you don't want to pay the ongoing monthly fee ($15 or $39/month, depending on the tier), there are "quick start" self-guided workouts that don’t require a subscription.
The bike has some minor issues — the touchscreen isn't always responsive at first touch, and there is no clear spot to set a phone — but it offers a comfortable feel, two cupholders and a strong fan for rider comfort. The bike is also very quiet. "I've done workouts with the bike positioned behind my couch with my 1.5-year-old asleep on the couch, and I wasn't worried about waking her," our tester said.
One other nice feature? NordicTrack products (and the iFit subscription too) are all FSA and HSA eligible. If you have money left in your account that you need to spend, this might be a nice way to use those pretax dollars.
While the R35 is currently out of stock, the brand's New 10 Recumbent Bike is available — it offers similar benefits and high-tech features and costs $1,500, including free shipping. If that's outside your price range, check out our list of best recumbent bikes — our top pick combines features and value for just $600.
Type: Recumbent | Resistance type: Magnetic | Dimensions: 45.9" x 20.9" x 38.7" | Weight: 73.8 lbs. | Weight capacity: 350 lbs. | Connectivity: Bluetooth | Membership required: No | Standout features: Multiple handle options, walk-through design, transportation wheels
For anyone who wants a lower-cost recumbent bike or anyone who needs a little extra support during a cycling workout, the Yosuda RC-PRO is a good choice. At just $310 it's a bare-bones but affordable option that allows for a straightforward workout with a comfortable design. "This is not a high-tech, fancy-pants bike. It's very basic with a very basic LCD monitor that displays distance, time, calories and pulse," said our tester, adding, "But if I wanted 'upgrades,' it would cost a whole lot more. I find the wide cushioned seat and backrest A+. This is so much more comfortable than my traditional exercise bike."
This simple comfort and design (particularly the supportive backrest and comfortable seat) is part of the reason it made our selection as "best workout bike for seniors," but the other reason is its ease of assembly. It comes 80% assembled, which means there's not too much you have to do once it arrives. "Very easy to put together. Took about 30 minutes. No cursing!" shared our tester. She added that while there's a YouTube video to help with instructions, she didn't find it necessary.
Our tester, who also has mobility issues in one leg and chronic lower back pain, said this is a great option for individuals like herself who need a stable and supportive way to work out from home. Just be aware that the LCD monitor isn't backlit, so it's harder to see if you set the bike up in a darker space or a garage gym.
You have a lot of options to choose from when shopping for a workout bike. Here are the main categories to consider:
Upright: The classic style you're likely familiar with from the gym. Upright bikes position you in a traditional seated posture as you pedal, but they differ from studio-style bikes as they're not intended to feel like riding an outdoor bike. They often have wider, cushioned seats and a range of built-in programs.
Studio-style: These bikes have a sleeker design with a narrower seat compared to uprights. They were built to mimic the feel of riding a bike outdoors, and as such, they offer a variety of seat, handle and resistance adjustments to make the experience more "real." Because studio-style bikes were originally used for indoor cycling classes, many include features like app compatibility or integrated screens that offer a similar experience at home.
Recumbent: Designed with a low-to-the-ground seat and backrest, recumbent bikes provide extra support, making them gentle on the back and neck. This style is especially popular among older adults for its comfort and ease of use.
Air: Air bikes use a fan to generate resistance that increases as you pedal faster or push harder on the handles. They offer unlimited resistance and are ideal for high-intensity workouts.
Finding the perfect workout bike involves more than just picking one that looks good — consider everything from resistance type to comfort features to ensure it aligns with your fitness goals and lifestyle. Here's what to look for:
Fitness goals and riding preferences: When choosing a workout bike, it's important to start with your fitness goals, explains Gallucci. The type of bike you select should align with what you want to achieve, whether it's improving endurance, building strength or supporting recovery. Build quality and stability are also key factors to ensure the bike meets your needs. Additionally, consider whether you'd prefer the upright position of a traditional bike or the reclined comfort of a recumbent design, as this will impact your overall experience.
Type of resistance: All workout bikes offer some form of resistance, with the most common options being magnetic and air resistance. Magnetic resistance relies on magnets to adjust the difficulty level, while air resistance uses a fan to create tension, increasing resistance as you pedal faster.
Comfort features: Each bike is designed differently, so it's essential to consider the comfort features that will improve your riding experience. These might include the shape and style of the seat, handlebars, built-in fans, tablet holders or water bottle holders. While most seats are adjustable, some riders also appreciate bikes with adjustable handlebars for added customization.
Design: For those with mobility challenges, a step-through design can make getting on and off the bike much easier. On the other hand, step-up designs require more balance and physical strength.
Connectivity and display: Workout bikes vary greatly in their connectivity and display options. Some are loaded with advanced technology, offering built-in streaming services and interactive features, while others take a more minimalist, low-tech approach. Some bikes are completely screenless, requiring you to connect your own device or app if you want to access streaming or on-demand classes or programs. There's no one-size-fits-all solution — it all comes down to your personal preferences and what works best for you.
Type of pedal: Workout bikes typically feature pedals designed for either "clip-in" use or regular sneakers. Clip-in pedals, common on studio-style bikes, require specialized cycling shoes for a secure fit. Some bikes, however, offer dual-use pedals, allowing you the flexibility to either clip in or use standard sneakers, depending on your preference. Just keep in mind, if you select a bike that requires you to clip into the pedals, you'll have to purchase compatible cycling shoes as well.
Safety features: Stability is crucial for a workout bike, so it's important to choose one that feels sturdy and well-balanced during use. Look for bikes with safety guards over the moving parts to prevent accidents, as well as an emergency brake for quick stops when needed. Also, make sure to check the weight limit — you want to be sure the bike is designed to support the weight of all potential users.
Budget and value: While higher-priced bikes often come with additional bells and whistles — aka extra features and advanced tech — you don't need to break the bank to find a great workout bike. Focus on the features that matter most to you and choose a bike that fits your budget. While many models cost $1,000 or more, there are quality options available for around $500, though they may lack some of the premium features of higher-end models.
Available space and storage: When choosing a workout bike, it's important to assess how much space you have and ensure there's enough room around the sides and back of the bike for easy access and movement during your workout. While most bikes aren't foldable, some come with wheels, making it simple to roll them to a different spot if needed. If you do plan to move your bike around on a regular basis, be sure to check the weight of the bike to make sure that it will be easy to lever and wheel.
The Yahoo Life team tested 15 workout bikes over three months to determine the best workout bike for 2025. Each bike was carefully evaluated for ease of assembly, comfort and design, built-in workout programs, streaming capabilities, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi integration, adjustability, ride smoothness and overall performance.
We also consulted two experts — a physical therapist and a fitness instructor — for insights on the key features that make a great home workout bike.
Furthermore, I am a health journalist and former competitive athlete. My extensive experience with testing and using exercise bikes at home added an informed perspective to the selection process.
The ideal workout bike depends on your individual preferences and needs. Consider factors such as any physical limitations, the level of intensity you're aiming for and whether you enjoy streaming guided workouts or prefer designing your own routine. Budget is also an important consideration when making your choice.
Magnetic resistance is the most commonly used type in workout bikes, particularly tech-forward studio-style bikes. Donato explains that it relies on magnets placed near the flywheel to generate tension. The magnets never make physical contact with the flywheel (unlike bikes that use brake pads); instead, resistance is adjusted by moving the magnets closer to or farther away from the wheel. This adjustment is typically made through a digital control on a screen or by turning a micro-tension knob, ensuring smooth and precise resistance changes.
In contrast, air bikes use a fan to create tension. "As the fan blade pushes against the air, resistance is applied by pressure to the flywheel," Donato says. "The faster you ride, the more resistance you'll feel." Because there's no limit to how fast you can ride (other than your own physical strength), this is a great option for athletes who want to build muscular strength and endurance while engaging in high-intensity interval training.
A major advantage of using a workout bike is that it provides a low-impact form of cardiovascular exercise, making it gentler on your joints compared to high-impact activities like running or jogging, says Donato. In addition to boosting heart health, workout bikes also help strengthen the muscles in your legs, offering a well-rounded fitness option. They're also readily accessible for most individuals, and indoor workout bikes often cost less than other home-based cardio equipment like treadmills or ellipticals.
Choosing the right workout bike console comes down to personal preference, but there are key features many users find helpful. For instance, basic metrics such as time, distance, calories burned and resistance level are essential for tracking progress. Integrated workouts are also helpful for those who want a "plug and play" experience, regardless of the bike's screen display or options for streaming classes.
For bikes that don't include a built-in screen for workout classes, an LCD screen is a useful addition. Higher-end models often include built-in monitors that allow you to stream workouts, track your performance and adjust the settings more easily, offering a more interactive experience.
Besides our top picks, we also tested a range of other bikes that may be worth considering. Each of these has its strengths and weaknesses and might be the right fit for you, depending on your budget and workout style:
Carol Bike, $2,595: The most expensive bike we tested offers intense, >
Sole B94, $1,000: This is a solid upright bike with a commercial-grade feel featuring an LCD screen and a tablet holder. Our tester suggested it's particularly well suited for older riders or those who want a more classic gym bike rather than a studio-style cycle. The seat is wide and comfortable, and our tester liked the integrated heart rate sensors to measure intensity.
Sole R92, $1,150: This high-quality recumbent bike is a nice machine reminiscent of a gym-style option, but its high price point is similar to that of our top pick for recumbents but without the integrated screen or smart features. However, it does feature two handlebar positions (the NordicTrack offers only one), and it provides integrated heart rate sensors (a feature the NordicTrack is missing).
Horizon 5.0R, $649: This is a great, midrange recumbent bike that would be a good fit for anyone who wants a solid, well-constructed bike with some added tech features (like Bluetooth integration) but who doesn't want to spend more than $1,000.
XTerra SB240 Recumbent, $300: An unfussy bike with great back support, this almost made the cut as our best bike for seniors. The only reason it didn't? The Yosuda bike we selected supports weight up to 350 pounds (this one maxes out at 265 pounds) and comes 80% assembled, only taking about 30 minutes to put together. However, the backlit LED screen and 24 integrated programs on the XTerra SB240 also make it a good budget option.
Schwinn IC4, $799: This is another "unfussy" and sturdy studio-style bike that our tester loved. It could have easily won our pick for "best traditional studio bike under $1,000." The only problem? Its sale price puts it in that range, but its normal list price is about $1,200, which is more than the Spinning model that came out on top. "It's so smooth, solid and uncomplicated. It would be cool if it had a screen with workouts, but I could always get an app and use a tablet," our tester said. One other nice feature? The charging station it includes so you can connect your phone or tablet and not worry about running out of battery.
Caitlin Donato, director of fitness at Pritikin Longevity Center, Miami
John Gallucci Jr., a physical therapist and CEO of JAG Physical Therapy, Bridgewater, N.J.
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
It'll include connected bikes, rowers and treadmills.
Fitness
