There are lots of health benefits that come with the best indoor cycling bikes. Spin bikes do help in offering a challenging form of low impact exercise that makes it possible for body workouts. Previously, people had to venture into gym, spinning class, fitness class or cycle studio in order to enjoy cycling benefits. However, all these used to have lots of several limitations which affected the amount of time one spent on the saddle.
Have you ever imagined being in a position of cycling right from your home? You will never have to worry about the cold and rainy days, traffic jam and tight schedules. Investing in the best indoor cycling bikes will help save you the time you could have spent going to the gym.
In this guide, we will be looking at the top 10 best indoor cycling bikes together with important factors one need to consider when shopping for the best indoor cycles bikes in the market.
Schwinn IC3 Indoor Exercise Bike
Schwinn IC3 comes in the first position due to its solid value. This best indoor cycling bike is very appealing to users who are interested in a dependable exercise bike for carrying out their workouts from home. However, the Schwinn IC3 is not technology filled when compared to some of its competitors but you will always get a large LCD console together with a wireless heart rate monitoring.
It has a 40- pound flywheel that offers lots of resistance even to the more advanced users. You can use the resistance dial to make adjustments whenever needed.
It also comes with dual SPD pedals that make it possible for one to use the toe cages or SPD clips. Use of an integrated multimedia holder will ensure you are entertained whenever you are riding. It also comprises of a padded handlebars, large water bottle and a ventilated seat.
Pros
- Has a large 40- pound flywheel
- Has a dual SPD pedal that makes it possible for you to use the toe cages or SPD clips
- Has an in built multimedia holder
Cons
- Its screen is not back lit
- It is a bit noisy
- There are people who find its stock seat uncomfortable
Keiser M3i Indoor Cycle
The Keiser M3i Indoor Cycle comes in second in our list of best indoor cycling bikes in the market. There are riders who do consider this model as one of the best due to its unique frame which can only be compared to road bike frames.
It is possible for one to raise both the seat and handlebars at the same time. This makes it possible for the bike to accommodate riders who are 4 ft 10 inches to 7 ft. It also uses Bluetooth technology that makes it possible for one to connect with any accompanying app enabling them to monitor their real time heart rate, FTP zones, power output and more.
Made in the US, this bike does feature a pre-tensioned belt that does not need adjustments over a period of time. One can use their tablets to perform virtual workouts or keep themselves entertained watching their favorite TV show as they ride.
Pros
- Has an integrated media holder that can fit on most tablets
- It is of a unique shape mimicking most of the road bikes
- Can access heart rate, FTP zones and more through the accompanying app
Cons
- Its integrated computer is primitive
- Comes with a limited third party app
- It is a bit pricey
Sole SB700 Indoor Bike
In case you are in need of a best indoor cycling bike that will offer you a greater experience, then you need to consider this Sole SB700 Bike. This cycling bike features a flywheel making it suitable and dependable for offering resistance like road. Its flywheel does remain as quiet as possible despite its larger flywheel size. This makes it possible for one to sneak in workouts without causing disruptions.
To increase or decrease the level of resistance, one needs to turn the resistance knob when riding. It also comprises of a powerful Kevlar brakes which adds to the riding experience. Integrated console will display stats like calories burned, distance, RPM, speed and more. Seat adjustments and multi way handlebar will make the bike great for riders of different sizes.
This bike also has pedals with toe straps for extra safety. Its maximum weight capacity is around 300 pounds.
Pros
- Its pedals have toe straps
- It has a generous flywheel
- Comes with seat adjustments and multi way handlebar
Cons
- It is a bit heavy
- Its handles are not padded
- It uses an integrated computer which is very basic
Sunny Health & Fitness Indoor Cycling Bike
The Sunny Health & Fitness Pro Indoor Cycling Bike is a great choice for shoppers who are limited on budget. It is never easy to get enough resistance since the bike do have 40- pound chrome flywheel. A dual resistance system is its other perk.
You will be using the adjustable knob to help you increase or reduce the resistance whenever you are riding.
This bike fits riders of different sizes thanks to its seat and handlebars which are all adjustable. It also has stabilizers that ensure the bike is secure and planted on the ground even when performing intense workouts.
Pros
- Adjustable handlebars and seat
- Its stabilizers keep the bike secure
- Has adjustment knob that allows you to take away or add resistance
Cons
- There are people who get it difficult to move the handlebars up and down
- It has a chain drive that makes it loud when compared to the belt drive
- It lacks a digital monitor
Flywheel Home Exercise Bike
The Flywheel Home Exercise Bike allows you to complete all your favorite studio workouts from your home. All you have to do is just hope on the bike and start riding and you do not have to worry about scrambling to make it to your class on time.
This bike comes with a built in tablet that offers a convenient and easy viewing space for your great workout exercises. It is also possible to save money on the same type of model in case you already have your own device.
The workouts do comprise of videos done by Flywheel instructors. It is possible to narrow the options depending on your best workout time, level of fitness, music genre and more. The new classes are usually added every day in addition to the thousands which are already present. The on-board digital stats will enable you to monitor the workouts closely and be able to compete against other people.
It s handlebars and seat can be adjusted in several ways. The bike does come with a dual water bottle holder and weighted bars. You will also need delta compatible shoes which you will have to buy separately. It also uses a Bluetooth 4.0 technology that supports majority of the standard Bluetooth heart rate.
Pros
- There are new classes which are added on a daily basis
- It comes with a free two month subscription
- There are lots of pre recorded and live workouts
Cons
- It is a bit expensive
- It requires particular shoes
- One will need monthly subscription
Echelon Smart Connect EX-3 Cycling Bike
In case you are interested in enjoying a live studio experience, then you will have to consider Echelon Smart Connect EX-3. It is considered by most of its users are the best indoor cycling bike in the market.
One can easily extend their subscription from the already included trial period of two weeks. After the bike has been set up, one can use accompanying applications to help access everything from the scenic rides to live classes.
However, this best indoor cycling bike does not skimp on technology and one will get a 2.4 USB charger together with a backlit Bluetooth display. It has a choice of more than 30 levels of resistance that enables you to customize workouts.
It also features a precise magnetic resistance, smooth motor, console based adjustment and a racing style seat.
Pros
- Has a console based adjustment
- Consists of over 30 levels of resistance
- Has a racing style seat
Cons
- The app can be improved
- Has only 14 days trial subscription
- There are riders who get its seat uncomfortable
Cyclace Cycling Bike
The Cyclace Cycling Bike is a very affordable best indoor cycling bike that consists of all essentials which can satisfy your home work out. This bike also comprises of a belt drive system and a 36-pound flywheel that helps in offering a quiet and accurate ride. All you have to do is turn the resistance knob to change its level of resistance.
The frame of this bike is durable and is of a multi layer design to help in protecting it against rust. Its handle bars can also be adjusted in two different ways. Its seat is adjustable in four ways making it able to fit riders of different sizes.
The bike also features a multi function monitor and a built in phone. It also has cage pedals and in built wheels to help in moving the bike whenever it is necessary.
Pros
- Has a multi function monitor
- Its seat can adjust in four ways
- Has in built wheels which make the bike easier to move
Cons
- Has a stock seat that is uncomfortable
- Most of its competitors do have a large media holder
- Has a small flywheel
ANCHEER Indoor Cycling Bike (M6008)
The ANCHEER Indoor Cycling Bike (M6008) offers a quick stop braking ad belt drive system at affordable price. You will enjoy a handy tension knob to easily and quickly adjust the tension as required when carrying out workouts.
Its pedals do have inbuilt adjustable straps that ensures ones’ feet is steady whenever they are riding. Its padded seat is also wide and can be adjusted in four different ways.
This best indoor cycling bike also comes with an LED monitor that helps in displaying distance, speed, calories and more. It also has an in built phone bracket.
Pros
- Has an LED monitor that displays calories, distance and more
- Its pedals come with adjustable straps
- Has an adjustable padded seat
Cons
- It has a small display
- There have been several complaints of its inaccurate readings
- Riders who are taller than 6 ft do struggle to fit on it
Merax Deluxe Bike
Are you looking for the best indoor cycling bike yet you are on a tight budget? Try Merax Deluxe Bike. This bike is ideal for beginners and people who do not intend to ride on it on a daily basis. It comes with a 22- pound flywheel. Apart from its cheap price, this bike stands out thanks to its 330-pound weight capacity.
It has an adjustable saddle which can move up and down and side to side. It comes with an on board LCD monitor that helps in tracking your speed, distance, calories and total workout time. It also has inbuilt wheels which makes it easier to transport.
Pros
- Has a weight capacity of 330- pounds
- It is ideal for beginners
- The tension can be adjusted by turning the knob
Cons
- Expect some rattles and squeaks
- The flywheel is not that heavy
- It has an uncomfortable stock seat
Poodoo Indoor Cycling Bike
Most of the shoppers who are on tight budget will appreciate the overall value. It has a 26-pound flywheel together with a steel frame and a weight limit of 280 pounds that ensures stability.
Its handlebars and seat are fully adjustable ensuring a comfortable riding experience. It also has convenient resistance knobs that allow you to adjust the levels of resistance quickly and apply the brakes when riding.
It consists of a multi function LCD display screen that helps in tracking workout time, speed, calories, distance and more. It also comes with transportation wheels and an integrated water bottle holder. Its cage pedals do prevent the feet from slipping when working out.
Pros
- It has multi function LCD display
- It comes with resistance knobs
- Handlebars and seats are fully adjustable
Cons
- Has a small LCD display
- It is a bit heavy for moving around
- Not very heavy flywheel
Buying Guide for the Best Indoor Cycling Bikes
There are a few factors which come into play whenever you are shopping for the best indoor cycling bikes for home use. When you do not know the important factors to look at, you might find it a bit difficult to buy the best indoor cycling bikes.
Here are some of the important factors you need to keep in mind when shopping for the best cycling bikes from home.
Durability
One of the most essential factors you need to consider whenever you are making any purchase is the longevity of the indoor cycling bike. The types of material used on the bike frame do have a direct correlation with the durability of the bike. Steel is one of the most popular materials used in making the bike frames since it is strong, heavy and durable.
The cycling bikes need frames made from heavy materials to increase stability to the rider.
Adjustability
When it comes to ergonomics and comfort of using a spin bike, adjustability is very important. It offers you the ability to move the seat forward or backwards and up or down. Its main aim is to change the seat proximity to the handlebars.
Support and Comfort Levels
The best indoor cycling bikes in the market should be in a position of offering great support and comfort levels. You can only have a hassle free workout experience when the bike is comfortable. It means the handlebars and the seat must also be comfortable while the pedal should offer great grip.
Flywheel Size
Any top quality indoor cycling bike needs to have a heavy flywheel. Bikes with smooth rides do have heavy flywheel. Any heavy flywheel does have the momentum of improving the security and stability of the bike.
The amount of mechanical energy one uses is transferred through the flywheel providing one with resistance he or she needs to work out their muscles.
Accessories and Technology
Although accessories and technology does not determine the level of performance of indoor cycling bikes, they are important features that will help one in achieving the best whenever they are working out.
Your aim should be in getting a model with an inbuilt computer console that will aid in tracking your progress.
The console will need to have readouts for the speed, distance and time that has elapsed. There are also high end models which allow on to pair their console with a handheld device.
Your Weight
Every indoor cycling bike does come with their specified weight. It is therefore wise for one to choose a bike with a weight limit that exceeds your weight. Even when the pedals, seat, frame and crank are strong enough capable of supporting higher weights than the weight indicated, there are chances the bike might not be that stable to be driven by a rider who exceeds the specified weight.
Warranty
Frames and bike parts with extensive warranties is an indicator that the bike you are about to purchase is of high quality. Wear parts like pedals, brake pads usually have a 90-day warranty. However, with daily use, such parts are still capable of lasting for more than one year.
FAQ about the Best Indoor Cycling Bikes
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions concerning the best indoor cycling bikes.
Is it a must I have bike shoes?
Although sneakers will do well when used in spinning work outs, it is advisable to use bike shoes. Bike shoes will help you improve since your legs will be engaged fully in the movement. The bike shoes will also support your feet preventing any damage.
Does spinning make your legs big?
Cycling is an important exercise when you are in need of shaping your leg muscles. The spin bikes never lead to bigger legs.
How good is indoor cycling for individuals with previous injuries?
If you had injuries, it is advisable that you first consult a doctor before you take part in any sporting activities like indoor cycling. In most cases, spinning will never have an impact on joints, hence; you can always use it to help prevent further injuries and in strengthening your health.
How does a spinning bike operate?
Resistance level is one of the most important parts of any indoor cycling bike. Adjusting the resistance level should be easy depending on the level of challenge you want when working out.
In case you are riding a normal bike, you always sit on the seat pad before you pedal. You have to apply some force to spin the flywheel.
Conclusion
The bikes we have listed here are some of the best in the market. Most of them do have a five star rating meaning they are top quality cycling bikes. They do have a solid construction with most of them featuring 4-way adjustability for both the handlebar and the seat.
They are well equipped with strong flywheels and are capable of accommodating different users, weight and height. All of the bikes we have reviewed are of great price to quality ratio and are best indoor cycling bikes in the market. In case you have any suggestion or question, feel free to contact us.