Most people have heard of Peloton bikes – but they’re not the only option.
We reviewed over 250 bikes to bring you the 10 best exercise bikes to lose weight at home in 2023.
Below you’ll find exercise bikes for beginners and experts, young and old, and budget to the latest in high-tech home workouts.
A quick peek at the best exercise bikes to lose weight at home
- Best home exercise bike for streaming workouts >> Peloton Bike (Review)
- Best Peloton alternative >> Schwinn IC4 (Review)
- Cheapest high-end home exercise bike >> Schwinn IC3 (Review)
- Best recumbent exercise bike >> Schwinn 230 Recumbent (Review)
- Best cheap exercise bike for streaming workouts >> Echelon EX-15 (Review)
- Best value home exercise bike >> Wenoker (Review)
- Best light-weight exercise bike >> Yosuda (Review)
- Best folding exercise bike >> Pooboo Folding Exercise Bike (Review)
- Best home exercise bike for older adults >> JEEKEE (Review)
- Best cheap home exercise bike >> Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B1002 (Review)
Table Contents
Best exercise bikes to lose weight at home
Peloton Bike
Peloton is the ultimate home exercise bike that all others aspire to.
It's renowned among fitness enthusiasts for it's interactive features, live classes and on-demand cycling workouts.
Crafted with top-notch materials, including a robust carbon steel frame, the Peloton exercise bike will withstand even the most intense workout sessions.
The 22-inch (56-cm) HD touch screen has built-in speakers and the belt drive is near-silent, ensuring a smooth and quiet riding experience.
It connects to Wi-Fi and is Bluetooth-enabled. You can pair your heart rate monitor or smart watch or download the Peloton Watch App to track your workouts.
The compact footprint of 4 x 2 foot is smaller than the average yoga mat.
Peloton's All-Access membership gives workout access to the whole family and is available for an additional $44 per month, you get access to live weekly classes and an array of other streaming workouts.
- Easy to use, sturdy and looks great
- Join live classes or follow along to pre-recorded sessions
- Connects to heart rate monitor or smart watch
- Expensive
Schwinn IC4 (800IC) Indoor Cycling Bike
The Schwinn Fitness IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike is a much more affordable alternative to Peloton.
It supports riders up to 330 lbs / 149 kg and uses magnetic resistance to provide 100 resistance levels.
Unlike Peloton the IC4 doesn't include a tablet, but the LCD is full-color and backlit. There is a tablet stand where you can use a separate tablet for streaming workouts.
The bike is compatible with the Peloton, JRNY, Zwift and Explore the World Apps.
The JRNY app offers similar classes to Peloton but at only $11.99 a month and you get 2 months free with the Schwinn bike.
- Dual-sided pedals (SPD clips / toe cages)
- Easy access cradles with a set of 3Ib dumbbells
- Connects to JRNY that has 200+ virtual courses (2 months free)
- 2 months free JRNY workout classes included
- Compatible with Peloton, Zwift & Explore the World Apps
- USB charging station
- Cheaper than Peloton
- Needs separate tablet (not-included) for streaming workouts
- Heavier users might want to swap the seat for one that's more padded.
Schwinn Fitness IC3 (700IC) Exercise Bike
Overall, the Schwinn IC3 offers an excellent blend of performance, comfort, and durability, making it a reliable choice for indoor cycling enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a beginner looking to kick-start your fitness journey, this bike provides a solid workout experience.
- Adjustable seat and handlebars
- Easy to assemble
- Smooth, quiet ride
- Infinite resistance levels
- Small display screen
- Friction resistance rather than magnetic
Schwinn Fitness 230 Recumbent Bike
The Schwinn Fitness 230 is one of the best available recumbent bikes.
The seating is a comfortable, ventilated, contoured seat with lumbar support and adjustable.
Bluetooth connectivity allows you to connect the bike to Zwift or Expore the world apps for immersive virtual biking tours.
The bike features a 5.5" LCD with 13 workout programs, 16 levels of magnetic resistance, telemetry, and grip heart rate monitoring.
- 5.5" LCD with 13 workout programs
- Large comfortable seat with vented back
- Compatible with Explore the World, Zwift and Kinomap apps
- 16 magnetic resistance levels
- Heavier to move
- Console is not lit
- No fan
- Seat is not padded
Echelon EX-15
The Echelon EX-15 is the best cheap exercise bike for streaming classes and workouts.
Comes with a free 30-day trial of Echelon Premier Membership for access to 3,000+ live and on-demand fitness classes via the Echelon Fit App.
The EX-15 Bike offers 32 levels of silent resistance, adjustable toe cages, and a comfortable cushioned seat in a modern, space-saving design.
- Echelon App for streaming classes and workouts
- Compact design
- Great value for money
- No screen
- Toe cage only on pedals - no clips
Wenoker Exercise Bike
The Wenoker indoor cycling bike offers a very quiet workout experience and features a monitor to track time, speed, distance, calories, and more.
The dial tension knob allows for unlimited resistance levels. It includes a tablet holder, water bottle holder, and caged pedals.
The extended reach accommodates all rider sizes, and transport wheels make it easy to move.
The handlebars have a spongy coating for comfort and multi-point grips for different cycling styles.
- Best value and solid weight
- Extra-large, adjustable cushioned seat
- 35 lbs / 16 kg flywheel
- No app connectivity or bluetooth
Yosuda Exercise Bike
The YOSUDA exercise bike features a 30lbs flywheel and a heavy-duty steel frame for stability and a smooth, quiet ride.
With a maximum weight capacity of 300 lbs, it ensures safe and secure workouts.
The bike offers a personalized fit with adjustable handlebars and padded seat suitable for users from 4'8'' to 6'1''.
The LCD monitor tracks various workout metrics, and the included iPad holder allows for entertainment during workouts.
- Great value for money
- Smooth and quiet belt-driven system
- LCD monitor and iPad holder for tracking stats and entertainment
- Relatively light weight for movability
- No app connectivity or bluetooth
Pooboo Folding Exercise Bike
The Pooboo exercise bike offers versatile workout options with its upright and semi-recumbent postures. It includes arm resistance bands for full-body toning.
The bike features a stable structure, oversized adjustable seat cushion, and a bottle holder for convenience.
It's compact, foldable, and easy to move with transport wheels.
Suitable for different heights, it has 8-level adjustable magnetic resistance for a quiet and smooth workout experience.
- Relatively cheap
- Includes resistance bands
- Foldable and compact, making it easy to move and store
- Oversized adjustable seat
- No app connectivity or bluetooth
JEEKEE Recumbent Exercise Bike
The JEEKEE is the best Recumbent Exercise Bike for older adults looking to stay fit or lose some weight.
It's great value for money with no need to connect to external apps - all workout metrics are shown on the LCD screen.
It has a large comfortable seat and provides a smooth and quiet workout.
- Great value for money
- Large comfortable seat
- Easy to move
- No app connectivity or bluetooth
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B1002
The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B1002 exercise bike features a 49 lbs heavy-duty flywheel for a natural and smooth cycling experience.
Its micro-adjustable leather resistance offers an authentic road biking feel.
The belt drive ensures quiet operation, and the seat and handlebar are adjustable for customizable comfort.
It has a sturdy frame with a maximum user weight capacity of 275 lbs.
It's easy to assemble and portable with transportation wheels, and has a water bottle holder.
- Very cheap
- Heavy flywheel for smooth ride
- No display
- No Bluetooth
How we chose these exercise bikes
The exercise bikes featured in this article were chosen using specific criteria:
Product specifications and features: We evaluated important details like dimensions, weight capacity, and warranty, along with special features such as streaming capabilities and foldability, to identify the top choices.
Customer reviews: The bikes on our list have received mostly positive feedback from customers.
Price: We included a diverse selection of bikes to cater to different budget preferences.
Quick comparison of the best exercise bikes to lose weight
| Exercise Bike | Max User Weight | Bike Type | Resistance | Bluetooth | Display Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peloton Bike | 297 lbs (134 kg) | Indoor Cycling | Magnetic: 100 Levels | Yes | 22″ HD Touchscreen |
| Schwinn IC4 (800ic) | 330 lbs (149 kg) | Indoor Cycling | Magnetic: 100 Levels | Yes | Full color backlit LCD |
| Schwinn IC3 (700ic) | 300 lbs (136 kg) | Indoor Cycling | Friction: Infinite Levels | No | LCD |
| Schwinn 230 | 300 lbs (136 kg) | Recumbent | Magnetic: 16 Levels | Yes | LCD |
| Echelon EX-15 | 300 lbs (136 kg) | Indoor Cycling | Friction: 32 Levels | No | None |
| Wenoker | 300 lbs (136 kg) | Indoor Cycling | Friction: Infinite Levels | No | LCD |
| Yosuda | 270 lbs (122 kg) | Indoor Cycling | Friction: 8 Levels | No | LCD |
| Pooboo | 300 lbs (136 kg) | Foldable Upright | Magnetic: 8 Levels | No | LCD |
| JEEKEE | 300 lbs (136 kg) | Recumbent | Magnetic: 8 Levels | No | LCD |
| Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B1002 | 275 lbs (124 kg) | Indoor Cycling | Friction: 16 Levels | No | LCD |
How to choose the best exercise bike to lose weight
Before you buy just any bike, consider the following points:
- What is your goal? Are only cycling for weight loss or do you want to use the bike to improve your cycling and fitness?
- Do you have any health conditions or previous injuries? For example, do you have a temperamental back or knees that flare up? Do you have a heart condition and you need to monitor your heart rate closely?
- Are you wanting a bike that has built-in entertainment and virtual classes or just a standard bike?
- Are you wanting to spin or just use a regular exercise bike?
The best exercise bike to lose weight is one that will work for your unique requirements. For example, if you’re a bigger person, you might consider the best exercise bikes for heavy people. If you purchase a bike you love, you’ll most likely continue to use it and make it part of your lifestyle.
How to use your exercise bike to lose weight
Using an exercise bike to help you to lose weight can be an effective strategy. Although large studies are limited, smaller studies have shown that regular use of an exercise bike can show positive changes to body composition, lipid profile and overall fitness.
The most important thing to keep in mind is: Don’t quit!
If you consistently exercise and eat a healthy diet, you’ll start to lose weight. In a small trial, sedentary individuals who started spinning three times a week, saw noticeable changes 3 weeks into the 6 week trial. At the end of 6 weeks, participants that had a BMI in the overweight range, moved down to a healthy BMI. Obese individuals lose weight and moved down to a BMI of overweight.
Using an exercise bike is an effective way to help you lose weight. Consistency is key — you might only start to see major changes 3 weeks into a routine, so don't quit! Choose a bike that works for you.
Best exercise bike for weight loss — types of bikes
Like most fitness equipment, exercise bikes come in all shapes and sizes. Here are some of the most common exercise bikes so that you can work out which one is best for you.
Upright bikes | the classic choice
Upright bikes are the tried-and-true, old-school exercise bike. Like traditional bicycles, they position the pedals directly below the seat. Generally, the seat is comfortable and your workout straightforward. It’s also a better option if you have a bad back as you won’t be leaning forwards over the handle bars.
An upright bike is an excellent option if you’re looking for a low-impact workout that packs a punch.
Recumbent bikes | embrace the comfort
Recumbent bikes are ideal for those who have back problems, balance issues or perhaps don’t enjoy sitting on a traditional bicycle seat!
These bikes have a reclined seat and the pedals are positioned in front of you, taking the pressure off your back and joints. Usually, there are handles on the side or in front to stabilize yourself.
If you have back pain or joint issues, a recumbent exercise bike might just be your new best friend.
Indoor cycling bikes | ride like a pro
Indoor cycling bikes emulate the experience of riding a road bike indoors. These bikes have high resistance levels and are perfect for intense interval training. Be prepared to have a hard work out and some serious calories burned biking on these excercise bikes!
Folding bikes | compact and convenient
Folding bikes are compact and are easy to store. They are perfect if you are short on space and need to move them out the way once you’ve finished your workout.
Spin bikes | rev up your routine
Spin bikes feature heavy flywheels and intense resistance levels. The weighted fly wheel gives a smooth cycling experience. Although the resistance can be increased, spinning bikes are also ideal for beginners and are effective bikes to lose weight. Plus, there are loads of online spinning classes that are free.
There are several types of exercise bikes available. It's best to select a bike that will work for your needs and one that you enjoy riding.
What is resistance level in exercise bikes?
Resistance level is how difficult it is to pedal the bike. The more resistance, the more challenging the ride!
Exercise bikes come with various levels of resistance depending on the bike. Some can range from as few as 5 levels to as many as 20 or 30 levels of resistance, depending on the model.
The levels are usually indicated by numbers or even colours. Light resistance might be labelled as “easy” and the highest levels, marked as “hard.”
You can usually control the resistance through a knob or lever that’s conveniently placed on the bike.
- Turning the knob clockwise increases the resistance and makes pedaling harder.
- Turning it counterclockwise decreases the resistance, making it easier to pedal.
The resistance levels are often indicated with numbers or colors for clarity. The lowest level is commonly marked as 1 or labeled “easy,” whereas the highest level is typically marked as 10 or labeled “hard.”
It’s always best to start gradually and build up the resistance. For beginners, sometimes the best goal is just cycling on an easy resistance for 30 minutes to make it a habit. Once you have the habit, you can start to increase the intensity of your workout.
Resistance on an exercise bike is how hard or easy it is to pedal. The more difficult it is to pedal, the more challenging the workout!
What features should I look for in a stationary bike?
Here are some of the features to consider when choosing the best exercise bike to lose weight. Remember, choosing a bike that you love and enjoy riding will help you stay motivated and stick to your weight loss goals!
Built-in entertainment features
Some bikes come equipped with built-in entertainment features such as a tablet holder, a TV screen or even interactive fitness apps. Not only will these features make your workout more enjoyable, but they will also help pass the time!
Exercise bikes that have built-in features are often on the higher price scale — so if you have a TV screen or can position your bike in front of a TV, then opt for a lower priced option, especially if it has other features that might be more important to you.
Built-in display
Modern exercise bikes usually have integrated activity tracking systems that monitor and record essential workout data in real-time. This feature typically tracks key metrics such as: heart rate, calories burned, distance covered, time spent, and even workout programs completed.
Equipped with sensors and technology, you can usually measure your heart rate through pulse sensors in the handlebars or via a Bluetooth chest strap.
The built-in display not only allows you to monitor your progress during each training session but also provides valuable insights into your overall fitness goals and weight loss progress. By keeping tabs on these metrics, you can set and achieve your fitness goals, make informed adjustments to your training routine, and stay motivated as you see your improvement over time.
Adjustable seat
Most exercise bikes come with an adjustable seat to accommodate users of different heights. This ensures that your knees are slightly bent when pedaling, which prevents strain and provides a comfortable position for your workout.
A gel or padded seat
A gel or padded seat will greatly improve comfort, especially for individuals who have a history of back or joint issues. The cushioning effect of the padding or gel, helps reduce pressure on the sit bones and keeps you feeling comfortable during longer workouts.
Backrest
Recumbent bikes usually come with a backrest which provides support to your lower back. This can be a useful feature, especially during longer workouts as it will help prevent fatigue and promotes better posture.
Armrests
Armrests offer support for your arms and reduces strain on the upper body. This is helpful during longer rides or maintaining an upright posture during workouts.
Pedal straps
Pedal straps or cups will keep your feet well strapped in and prevent your feet from slipping, especially during vigorous workouts. Choose an exercise bike that has safety straps to prevent injuries.
Cooling fans
Some exercise bikes have built-in cooling fans which helps to keep you comfortable during intense workouts. The fan helps regulate body temperature, which reduces overheating and improves overall comfort.
Speakers
Some bikes come with built-in speakers so that you can listen to music, podcasts or audiobooks while working out. This makes your workouts more enjoyable and motivating.
When selecting an exercise bike, it’s important to consider your individual needs and preferences. Comfortable exercise equipment can lead to a more consistent and enjoyable fitness routine. This will result in better long-term results and overall satisfaction with your workouts.
The features on an exercise bike can vary depending on the model. Don't skimp on the comfort features — the more enjoyable your ride, the more motivated you'll feel!
Are exercise bikes worth buying? A bit about price
Exercise bikes are a great way to lose weight. Not only does riding a stationary bike burn calories, but it can also improve your fitness and health all from the comfort of home. If you are looking for a piece of home gym equipment to help you lose weight, then an exercise bike is a good option.
While it might be tempting to purchase the most affordable exercise bike, remember sometimes budget options might not have all the comfort features that you’d like. It also doesn’t mean that you need to break the bank purchase the most expensive option.
There are plenty of great mid-range and budget-friendly options out there that can help you lose weight. Choose a bike that has the features you’d like that’s within a price range you can afford.
Choosing a bike in the mid price range is a great option. You'll still be able to get most features and an enjoyable ride!
Benefits of using an exercise bike to lose weight
Riding a stationary bike has several health benefits. As with all things related to weight loss and fitness, consistency is key. If you cycle regularly on your exercise bike and eat a healthy diet, you’ll notice those pounds melting!
Efficient calorie burning
Depending on the resistance, you can burn between 345 – 552 calories per hour of cycling. It’s an effective low-impact way to burn extra calories which is key to helping your body be in a calorie deficit.
Improved cardiovascular health
Using an exercise bike regularly is good for your heart! Pedaling increases your heart rate and makes you breathe faster which is an excellent cardiovascular workout.
In turn, this helps strengthen your heart, improves blood circulation, and reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, and related health issues.
Strengthens your muscles
Cycling is a great workout for your lower body, especially if you’ve added resistance. Some bikes, such as spinners, allow you to cycle seated or in standing position which builds strong legs and cardiovascular fitness.
Improves your mood and reduces stress
Using an exercise bike releases endorphins, which are natural mood enhancers. This natural “feel-good” effect can help manage stress, alleviate anxiety, and feelings of fatigue, leaving you with an improved sense of well-being and mental clarity.
Low impact workout
Exercise bikes are a low-impact workout. This means that there is less stress placed on your joints. This makes indoor cycling an ideal option for those who have joint pain, arthritis or other joint-related conditions.
Convenience and accessibility
Exercise bikes provide the convenience working out indoors. Whether you have a bike at home or use one at the gym, they are a readily accessible option for exercise. This is especially beneficial for individuals with busy schedules or limited access to other types of exercise facilities.
Using a stationary bike has several benefits. It's a low impact workout that can help you lose weight, improve your fitness, build muscle and endurance, enhance your mood and help with stress.
Tips to use an exercise bike to lose weight
Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your exercise bike.
Set realistic goals
Set achievable weight loss and fitness goals. The sense of achievement, will help you stay motivated and track your progress effectively.
Track your progress
Keep a record of your workouts, including the duration, intensity, and calories burned. Some exercise bikes will keep the record for you! Tracking your progress can provide valuable insights and keep you motivated.
Find a time that works for you
Choose a time of day that you can consistently dedicate to exercise. This will help you to establish a routine and make it easier to stick to your fitness plan.
Make it a habit
If you find a time that works for you and a bike that you love, you’ll make it a habit. The best way to lose weight and keep it off is to exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet. Making it a habit and a part of your lifestyle will help you keep off the pounds and enjoy a happier, healthier life!
Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity
If you are beginner at cycling, start very slowly on a low resistance. This will help your body to adapt to a new form of exercise.
As you grow stronger and feel more comfortable on the bike, gradually increase the resistance and the duration of your sessions.
Consider HIIT workouts
High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is an intense form of interval training that can help you burn more calories in a shorter time.
HIIT is usually performing an intense burst of exercise for 30 seconds followed by a rest of 10 seconds. You have several variations in the times between bursts of activity.
Listen to your body
Pay attention to how your body responds to the exercise bike – don’t do too much too soon. If you experience pain or discomfort, adjust your intensity or consult a healthcare professional.
Make your training enjoyable
Whether your follow an online class or simply catch up on Netflix while cycling, make sure that you make your training as enjoyable as possible. This will help you stick to your goals to exercise more and lose weight.
Cool down
End every session by cooling down after your ride. This could be cycling for 5 minutes at a slow easy pace followed by stretching.
To get the most out of your exercise bike, start slowly, stay consistent, make it a habit, increase resistance or intensity, make it enjoyable, listen to your body and don't forget to cool down!
FAQs
What is the best exercise bike for weight loss?
High intensity bikes like spinning bikes, indoor cycling bikes and assault bikes are very effective for weight loss. However, the best exercise bike to lose weight is the one that works for you and that you’ll use consistently.
How many calories can I burn on an exercise bike?
Depending on the resistance, you can burn between 345 – 552 calories per hour of cycling on an exercise bike.
How long should I ride an exercise bike to lose weight?
Riding for regularly 30 to 60 minutes will help with weight loss. Increasing the intensity and resistance will help you burn more calories and lose weight.
Are exercise bikes good for weight loss?
Yes, exercise bikes are great for weight loss. They are most effective when used regularly and in conjunction with a healthy diet.
Can exercise bikes cause lower back pain?
Yes, if your seat is not positioned correctly or you don’t have adequate support on the recumbent bike, you might experience back pain. It’s best to check in with your healthcare provider if the pain is consistent.
Overall Summary
- The best exercise bike to lose weight is the one that you’ll use consistently
- Choose an exercise bike that has features you require and love
- Using an exercise bike is a great way to help you lose weight. The key is to use it consistently.