October 11th, 2018 | Updated on March 22nd, 2024
If you’re interested in exercising at home, an exercise bike is certainly at the top the list for aerobic or cardiovascular workouts. But if you have a bad back or other joint issues, it isn’t always the most comfortable machine to use.
That’s why a recumbent exercise bike is an ideal alternative, offering all of benefits of a traditional exercise bike but with an eye toward comfort. Choosing the right recumbent bike for your home gym can be difficult because there are so many to choose from.
You have to know which size, seat design, resistance levels, preset programs, and other features to look for if you want to find the best option for your workout needs.
If you’re looking for a recumbent exercise bike, our top picks are on this page. If you want some general tips on how to choose a recumbent bike, keep reading our shopping guide.
Do you want to stay in shape, yet you rarely find the time to go to the gym to stay fit? In that case, the recumbent exercise bike is undoubtedly one of your best options.
Cost-effective and space-effective, this exercise bike can virtually be installed anywhere with minimal effort, and it can be used throughout all seasons, without having to worry about taking your traditional bike outside the house.
Here are the top 10 best recumbent exercise bike in 2018:
1. Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike
With the Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike, cardio workouts are anything but routine. From dozens of programs and levels of resistance to Bluetooth® connectivity and free app-based tracking tools like the RideSocial™ App, the Schwinn 270 turns cycling into a dynamic experience that yields outstanding results.
Review: Randy
Been using the bike for almost two weeks now. Overall, I think it’s a great piece of equipment with just a few caveats mentioned below. I went with a recumbent bike for several reasons, but mainly because my knees can’t hold up to the stress of a treadmill yet. Read Full Review…
2. Marcy ME 709 Recumbent Exercise Bike
With the ME-709, you will benefit from similar type exercise features that are typically offered on larger and more expensive exercise bikes. This recumbent exercise bike was built with a compact design that conveniently fits into the smallest exercise spaces.
Shape, firm and tone your physique and increase your body’s cardiovascular endurance while burning calories and losing weight.
Review: Paul
I had a Marcy bike, but thought it wouldn’t fit when we down-sized to a condo. Fortunately, I was wrong. I have serious foot disability (“fallen foot”) where a recumbent bike is recommended. Read Full Review…
3. Nautilus R616 Recumbent Bike
The Nautilus R616 Recumbent Bike dials up comfort and connectivity, keeping even the most discriminating cyclists coming back for more. With 29 workout programs, Bluetooth® connectivity and today’s must-happy free app-based tracking tools like the RideSocial™ App, the R616 helps achieve peak performance and stellar results.
Review: Vikinggirl58
This bike is great except for adjusting for shorter people. This happens on all recumbent bikes. If someone is short and has problems with knees and hips, the person may not be able to cycle a full rotation wiith the seat all the way down in front. Read Full Review…
4. Exerpeutic 900XL Extended Capacity Recumbent Bike
The recumbent stationary bike offers to challenge cardiovascular workout while minimizing stress on your joints and back. Eight-level magnetic tension control System allows you to customize your ride and challenge yourself over time.
Folding waterproof PVC equipment mat (79″l x 35.4″W x .24″H) included for floor protection and noise reduction when exercising. Large, easy-to-read LCD display indicates distance, calories burned, time, speed, and heart ratee information. 300-pound maximum user weight. One year limited Warranty
Review: MCSE
The bike assembled real well; it’s straight-forward enough that for the most part you don’t even really need directions. It took about an hour and a half to do by myself, after unpacking and laying out all the items on the floor in a fairly organized manner. Read Full Review…
5. Stamina Elite Total Body Recumbent Bike
The Stamina Elite Total Body Recumbent Bike is the solution for those who need performance, convenience and namely, a total body workout.
The bike features the upper body and lower body pedals that can be used either on their own or simultaneously.
Even more, the Total Body Recumbent has tech and comfort upgrades that rival its performance; the comfortable seat and pulse sensors come standard.
Assembled product weight 117.0 Pounds. Multi-function electronic display with scan function tracks speed, calories, heart rate, distance, and workout time. Includes both upper hand pedals and lower foot pedals for a full body workout.
Comfortable, padded, adjustable seat. To maximize the effectiveness of your ride, work within your target heart rate zone: 70% to 85% of your maximum heart rate. Angled backrest for added comfort, Sturdy, steel frame.
Review: Amazon Customer
I purchased this bike in February and I can honestly say it is the best money I have spent in my 56 years. I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia late last year and encouraged to exercise.
My Dr sent me to Physical Therapy where I used a 5000.00 recumbent bike and just fell in love with it. I could not afford that so began looking for something similar. Read Full Review…
6. Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike with 8 Resistance Levels NS-40502R
Take your workout routine a notch above with this premium Marcy Recumbent Bike. Recumbent cycles have become a popular trend in the world of fitness recently.
This famous exercise equipment allows you to warm up for strenuous workout sessions in the gym or to perform fat-blasting cardiovascular routines in the comfort of your home. Investing in the Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike is the perfect way to take your health and fitness to the next level.
his stationary bike features a premium steel frame that combines design and performance. The sturdy construction provides superior durability, making it an ideal investment that will last you a lifetime.
Review: K.R.M.
Used the exercise bike for the past week. Very good product for the price. Sturdy, looks good and is comfortable. An available span of resistance levels is perfect for my wife’s workouts and mine. Read Full Review…
7. PLENY 3-in-1 Total Body Workout Exercise Bike w/Backlit Screen, High Backrest, Adjustable Resistance Bands for Arm & Leg, and 300 lbs Weight Support
This exercise bike can switch from Upright/Semi-Recumbent/Recumbent type of Exercise Bike; Save you a lot of money and living spaces.
It has Resistance Bands both for arm and leg, You can have stretching exercises after cycling workout.
Wide Seat and High Backrest/Back Handle is comfortable. High-end Curved Crank Arm with anti-slip pedal with soft shoe strap makes the pedaling training safe.
8. Sunny Health & Fitness Folding Exercise Bike with Magnetic Semi Recumbent Upright High Weight Capacity and Pulse Monitoring – SF-B2721 Comfort XL
Feel great while you lose weight with the SF-B2721 Comfort XL Folding Recumbent Bike by Sunny Health and Fitness. Lightweight and compact, (38 lbs) this upright bike is designed for maximum comfort while still helping you achieve your unique fitness goals.
Dimensions: 24″-32″L X 21″W X 41.5″-49″H. The sturdy exercise bike accommodates users of all fitness levels while remaining completely customizable and supporting up to 300 lbs. Challenge your workout with ten levels of magnetic adjustable resistance and stay hydrated while utilizing the convenient water bottle holder!
This semi-recumbent bike features an extra-large fully padded seat and comfortable backrest to support you during longer exercise sessions. Completely adjust the machine to fit your body; adjustable seat (up/down) and adjustable handles accommodate inseams between Min: 28 and Max: 38 inches.
Feel amazing while watching your fitness progress on the easy to read digital meter which displays time, speed, distance, calories burned, odometer and pulse.
Review: S. Gorrow
The seat of an upright bike is really uncomfortable. The Sunny Health bike has a broad seat and a firm back support, which makes it very comfortable to sit on and pedal. It has armbars so you can sit back while pedalling or lean forward and use the handlebars, changing positions so your back doesn’t get tired. Read Full Review…
9. Nautilus R614 Recumbent Bike
The Nautilus R614 Recumbent Bike features the DualTrack LCD multi-display console with goal tracking functionality enabling the user to set and track exercise goals of workout time, distance traveled, and calories burned.
Review: Bill Adams
I will give my own impressions of our Nautilus R614 and also refer to a few comments that others have made. Generally, it seems to be well-made and solid, but like any machine, it has its little quirks which seem to affect each user differently. So here’s my own subjective review of how I see this machine’s strengths and quirks. Read Full Review…
10. Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike
Designed with a solid build, comfortable ride and user-friendly features, the 230 Recumbent Bike delivers the exceptional value you’ve come to expect from Schwinn. And 22 workout programs, easy-to-read displays and intuitive goal tracking, the Schwinn 230 puts a higher level of fitness well within your reach.
Review: Sharon
This bike was not too bad to put together, all nuts & bolts were explained & it comes with the tools to do it. So far I like this exercise bike. You can set up your own resistance when pedaling. Read Full Review…
11. Marcy Upright Exercise Bike Me-708
This Marcy ME-708 Stationary Upright Cycle also comes with a magnetic resistance system with eight preset levels making it ideal for fitness enthusiasts of any skill. The resistance is adjusted with a tension knob to customize your cardio training according to your fitness level. The large console acts as an odometer and tracks time, speed, distance travelled, and calories burned in extra-large numbers for easy reading.
Review: Antony
Yes. I’m 6 4 as well and have to actually put the seat down. I swear a giant could comfortably fit on this bike. Definitely go for it if you’re thinking about buying it. I use it daily for at least 5 miles with zero back pain or knee pains. The only issue with being a bigger guy/gal is the footsteps come undone when you get off the bike. That’s literally the only flaw. Read Full Review..
12. Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike
This equipment features a powder-coated steel frame that combines design and performance. Its step-through design allows quick mounting and dismounting from the bike. The heavy-duty construction can support up to 300 lbs.
Review: LUCIFER B SATAN III
I’ve had good luck with Marcy products so I thought I would give this a try. I have had it for 6 months and put about 5000 miles on it, I generally do between 25 and 35 miles a day. The seat looks cheap and not well made and that turned out to be right. Since I first started using it the seat has been wobbly , however until recently I was able to lean back against the seat , now I have to hold the handlebars the whole time I am exercising. Read Full Review…
13. Indoor Cycling Bike Stationary
This indoor cycling bike padded seat ergonomically designed for optimum comfort and easy adjustable. You don’t need an extra gel pad. Seat adjustment (for 5.1-6.2ft people). Transport wheel help you to move the cycle bike easily.
Review: David
Arrived after one and a half days since ordering it. First impression was the packaging which one or maybe two reviewers were disappointed in, well I was very impressed with mine I am relieved to say. Was going to keep it in the garage but decided to try it first of all in the upstairs spare bedroom and if too noisy then go back to the garage idea. Read Full Review…
14. Doufit Exercise Folding Workout Bicycle
There are 5 adjustable levels of seat height and 7 adjustable levels of pedal belt length, so you can also adjust them to get your proper position during exercise.
Review: Shelly
I have used the exercise bike daily for ten days and I really love it very much. First, the seat is so comfortable and adjustable, so my family can adjust it to get their proper position. The bike is very quiet so that I cannot disturb my family while riding it. Read Full Review…
15. ProForm 235
Track your training intensity like the pros with a power meter for the purest indication of your cycling performance. Plus, it’s easier than ever to get in the zone with the ipod-compatible audio system playing your favorite power music. Experience a smooth, steady pedal stroke with the flywheel made to perform.
Review: Douglas M.
Purchased this for my wife. She suffers from MS and has leg control issues. She was an avid bicycle-rider before the disease progressed and so this has been a wonderful alternative for her. Read Full Review…
16. Under Desk Exercise Bike
With eight levels of quiet, magnetic resistance, you’ll be able to strengthen your legs and arms without disturbing your coworkers. Plus, the simple tension dial makes switching intensities easy as pie (or π, depending on where you work).
Review: VAL-LA
I have an extremely sedentary job, and the past few years I’ve struggled with both weight gain and lower back problems. A standing desk doesn’t work for me because standing too long hurts my back. So I bought this product hoping to get some exercise at work, and that maybe it would also help keep loosen up my hips and lower back. Read Full Review…
17. Exerpeutic Motorized Exercise Bike
Exercise your legs while sitting at a computer, watching TV, or just relaxing in a chair with the Exerpeutic ACTIVcycle, which can also be placed on top of a desk or table for arm and shoulder exercises. Exercising using the ACTIVcycle promotes blood circulation, improves balance, and strengthens muscles. It comes pre-assembled and is ready to use out of the box.
Review: Nobleday
I have Multiple Sclerosis & don’t walk, I needed to get blood circulating in my feet. My left leg is almost useless and Due to fatigue, it took about 4 days to get a good routine (husband places it then lifts my foot on the left pedal). Read Full Review…
18. Drive Medical Deluxe Folding Exercise
The Folding Exercise Peddler with Electronic Display by Drive Medical is simply unbeatable when it comes to helping you increase your mobility and circulation as well as the strengthening of your legs and arms. The combination of these benefits can greatly boost your overall health and independence.
Review: Sarah
As someone with a desk job and now online school, I have become very sedentary and was looking for something to use at work that wouldn’t distract myself or my coworkers. Read Full Review…
19. Merax Classic Indoor Cycling Bike
Built to Last – Exercise on a solid stationary bike with a concise classic design that engages 22 LBS flywheel and supports 330 LBS max weight capacity. Quiet belt drive system that delivers a smooth and quiet ride, so that you can conveniently have access to an engaging workout anytime and anywhere.
Review: Christopher
Easy to put together and you get what you pay for. Not sure what Nikki’s review is talking about. Monitor works fine and you just plug it in the only place there is to plug. My only complaint is the handle bars seem a little weak. Read Full Review…
20. Spirit Fitness XBR25 Recumbent Bike
Contains a variety of exciting programs including: Hill, Fat Burn, Cardio, Strength, Interval, and Manual.
Review: Leetcompwiz
Comfortable, sturdy bike that you will want to keep using. The seat padding is firm, yet still gives enough to be comfortable. I easily feel good with hour long routines. I like the different types of programs that are available i.e. cardio, fat burn, intermittent, hill climb, ect. Read Full Review…
