The Best Indoor Cycling Bikes for Your Home Gym in 2024
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Whether you’re new to riding or a seasoned cycling pro, having the best indoor cycling bike is an excellent tool for a safe and effective low impact cardiovascular workout. But with so many frame designs, accessories and tech features to consider, it can be challenging to know which model to choose. That’s why it’s critical to have some knowledge about the best exercise bikes to fit your needs before purchasing fitness equipment for your home gym.
The good news? Once you find the right indoor cycling bike, incorporating a cardio workout into your overall routine is an excellent way to increase endurance, burn calories and have fun. With that in mind, here are our top picks for the best indoor cycling bikes, plus a comprehensive guide that covers the benefits of using an indoor cycling bike and what’s important to consider when you buy one.
Our Picks for the Best Indoor Cycling Bikes of 2024:
- Best Indoor Cycling Bike with a Screen: NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike
- Best Indoor Cycling Bike for Beginners: Myx Fitness MYX II Bike
- Best Affordable Indoor Cycling Bike: XTERRA Fitness Folding Exercise Bike
- Best Indoor Cycling Bike for Tall Riders: Sunny Health and Fitness Flywheel Chain Drive Pro Indoor Exercise Bike
- Best Natural Ride Indoor Cycling Bike: Wahoo Fitness KICKR BIKE Simulator
- Best Indoor Cycling Bike for a Studio Experience: Peloton Indoor Stationary Exercise Bike
- Best Indoor Cycling Bike Under $500: Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike
- Best Indoor Cycling Bike for Short Riders: Keiser M3i Indoor Cycle
- Best Indoor Cycling Bike for Small Spaces: Exerpeutic Folding Exercise Bike
Best Indoor Cycling Bike with a Screen: NordicTrack SS2i Studio Bike
NordicTrack
Key specs
- Resistance: 24 digital resistance levels
- Rider weight capacity: 350 pounds
- Dimensions: 61 inches x 22 inches x 58 inches
- Warranty: 10 year frame, two year parts, one year labor
- Digital display size: 22 inches
- Connectivity: Bluetooth, WiFi, streams live and on-demand classes from iFit app
Connected smart screens add a whole new dimension to how we exercise at home. The NordicTrack SS2i Studio Bike comes with a premium 22-inch, 360-degree rotating HD touch screen capable of streaming live and on-demand classes taught by experienced instructors. It’s also equipped with a premium 30W sound system that gives you a clearer audio experience.
The SS2i Studio Bike is often referred to as a Peloton alternative because it has similar features—like a padded ergonomic saddle, auto adjusting, immersive classes and a rotating screen for off-bike workouts—but comes with a lower price tag. Another perk of the S22i studio cycle? It delivers diverse workouts with realistic terrain. Unlike many other brands that only offer a flat road experience, this indoor cycle bike gives riders a range of -10 percent decline to 20 percent incline, allowing you to realistically cycle uphill or downhill. Beyond cycling workouts, the iFIT membership offers yoga, strength training, bootcamp, cross-training and mindfulness. The initial price is steep, and you’ll need to pay $39 per month for the iFIT membership, but if you’re an avid cyclist and plan on using the bike regularly, the SS2i is a good investment.
Pros:
- Offers -10 percent decline to 20 percent incline
- Large HD touchscreen tilts and rotates 360 degrees
- High rider weight capacity
Cons:
- More expensive than similar alternatives—price starts at $1,899
- iFit membership costs $39 per month after 30-day free trial
- Heavy frame
Best Indoor Cycling Bike for Beginners: Myx Fitness MYX II
Myx Fitness
Key specs
- Resistance: Infinite friction resistance
- Rider weight capacity: 350 pounds
- Dimensions: 55 inches x 21 inches x 47 inches
- Warranty: One year
- Digital display size: 21.5 inches
- Connectivity: Connects to available apps, Apple Watch support via app
Beginners looking for a high-quality machine to kickstart their indoor cycling journey will appreciate the premium features of The MYX II (also called the BODi Bike after Beachbody merged with MYX Fitness). This total fitness system features a 21.5-inch swiveling HD screen, compact footprint, high maximum rider weight, 41-pound flywheel and a large pedal diameter (18mm). Plus, the MYX II comes with versatile pedals that use SPD clip-in shoes or regular sneakers. And riders of all levels can take advantage of the customized heart rate training zones that help you adjust your effort to the instructor’s guidance.
For more in-depth information about this exercise bike, check out our MYX II review.
Although a monthly membership will run you $39 per month, you’ll get five profiles for five users, plus, access to thousands of live and on-demand classes, on and off the bike. Ride themes include endurance, scenic, rhythm, HIIT, climb and recovery. Off the bike you can choose from HIIT, core, yoga, cardio flow, Pilates, meditation, strength, kettlebells and more. While not a deal-breaker for most people, the MYX II is designed with friction resistance, which is not as smooth or quiet as magnetic.
Pros:
- Bike pedals compatible with SPD cleats and running shoes
- 30-day worry-free home trial
- Sturdy frame for higher weight capacity
Cons:
- Friction resistance not as smooth and quiet as magnetic
- $39 per month subscription required for unlimited access
- Limited warranty
Best Affordable Indoor Cycling Bike: XTERRA Fitness Folding Exercise Bike
XTERRA Fitness
Key specs
- Resistance: Eight magnetic resistance levels
- Rider weight capacity: 225 pounds
- Dimensions: 31.89 inches x 18.1 inches x 43.30 inches (unfolded), 18.1 inches x 18.1 inches x 50.79 inches (folded)
- Warranty: One year frame, 90 days brakes, 90 days parts
- Digital display size: Two inch x one inch LCD window
- Connectivity: N/A
If you want a basic budget bike for simple workouts, then check out the XTERRA Fitness Folding Exercise Bike. This entry-level bike is built with a solid X-frame design and has a precision-balanced flywheel with magnetic resistance. The small LCD display shows speed, distance, time, calories and pulse. Moreover, this folding bike only weighs 32 pounds, making it easy to transport and store when not in use. In addition, the handlebar-mounted hand-held sensor helps you monitor your heart rate. It also has a large, anatomically designed thick-padded seat.
With folded dimensions under 17 inches x 18 inches, the XTERRA is an excellent option for small spaces like apartments or a home office. But because it is a smaller, portable bike, the XTERRA only has eight resistance levels, which may not be enough for experienced cyclists. It’s also not the right bike if you weigh over 225 pounds.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly pricing starting at $112
- Ideal for small spaces
- Easy to move and store
Cons:
- Too entry-level for serious cyclists or higher fitness levels
- Console is very basic
- Low rider weight capacity
Best Indoor Cycling Bike for Tall Riders: Sunny Health and Fitness Flywheel Chain Drive Pro Indoor Exercise Bike
Sunny Health & Fitness
Key specs
- Resistance: Felt pad micro-adjustable resistance
- Rider weight capacity: 275 pounds
- Dimensions: 46.5 inches x 18 inches x 46 inches
- Warranty: Three year warranty on structural frame, 180-day warranty on other parts and components
- Digital display size: N/A
- Connectivity: N/A
Finding the right fit can sometimes be challenging when you’re shopping for cardio equipment designed for taller people or people with longer legs. The good news is the Sunny Health and Fitness Flywheel Chain Drive Pro Indoor Cycling Bike is suited for inseams up to 42 inches. This budget-friendly model has a solid steel frame with a unique handlebar design allowing for four versatile positions with various grips like overhand, hook grip and extension grip for standing.
Check out our Sunny Spin Bike roundup for more information on Sunny Health and Fitness' indoor cycling bikes!
Safety features include toe cages on the pedals to keep your feet in position while pedaling and an emergency handle brake that will slow or stop the flywheel quickly. Plus, the front transportation wheels make it easy to move in and out of the way. Another perk of this indoor exercise bike? A heavier flywheel means a smoother ride. The Sunny Health & Fitness Indoor Exercise Bike comes equipped with a 40-pound flywheel, allowing for more momentum for longer periods. While it’s hard to beat the price of this bike, it’s not for everyone. The maximum user weight is only 275 pounds and it does not come with a digital monitor or tablet holder.
Pros:
- Budget-priced exercise bike
- Heavier flywheel
- Caged foot pedals for stability and safety
Cons:
- Basic bike features and minimal metrics
- No clip-in pedal option
Best Natural Ride Indoor Cycling Bike: Wahoo Fitness KICKR BIKE
WAHOO
Key specs
- Resistance: 2,200 watts of resistance, electromagnetic and enhanced motor
- Rider weight capacity: 250 pounds
- Dimensions: 48 inches x 30 inches with a standover height range of 37 inches to 47 inches
- Warranty: One year limited warranty
- Digital display size: Small LED display unit
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi connection, up to three Bluetooth Connections, a direct connect port and ANT+/ANT+FE-C compatibility, iOS, Android, PC
The Wahoo Fitness KICKR Bike is our top pick for the best natural ride indoors. Designed with serious cyclists in mind, the Wahoo KICKR Smart Bike offers customizable gearing, simulated shifting and integrated grade changes, giving riders a realistic indoor cycling and training experience. Competitive riders will appreciate the ascents of up to 20 percent and descents as steep as -15 percent. And the maximum power output of 2,500 watts means even the most advanced riders will get a challenging workout. The bike also comes with a five-point adjustable fit allowing you to adjust the frame height, saddle height, setback, reach and stack. Plus, the Wahoo supports several devices including an iPhone, iPad, Android, MacOS and Windows PC. You can download the Wahoo app to a supported device for more advanced tech features.
With that being said, it also comes with a hefty price. Starting at $3,999, the KICKR is quite an investment. And the recommended add-ons like the KICKR headwind Bluetooth fan will add an extra $300 to the total cost. Finally, the maximum rider weight is only 250 pounds, which is significantly lower than several premium brands.
Pros:
- Premium exercise bike for serious cyclists
- Simulates real-time competitive riding
- Shifting and gearing matches your outdoor bike
Cons:
- One of the highest priced bikes on the market—price starts at $3,999
- May be too technical for entry-level riders
- Low rider weight capacity
Best Indoor Cycling Bike for a Studio Experience: Peloton Indoor Stationary Exercise Bike
Peloton
Key specs
- Resistance: Up to 100 levels of manually controlled magnetic resistance
- Rider weight capacity: 297 pounds
- Dimensions: 59 inches x 53 inches x 23 inches
- Warranty: One year limited warranty on parts and labor, plus five year coverage on the frame
- Digital display size: 21.5 inches
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity, WiFi, ANT+ wireless
If you’re looking for an immersive studio experience at home, then the Peloton Bike is worth checking out. Peloton’s platform and programming is one of the bike’s most loved features. It’s also known for its quiet ride and smooth transitions between resistance and cadence. Speaking of resistance, the Peloton offers 100 levels of magnetic resistance, giving riders or all levels a varied experience.
While the all-access membership will run you $44 per month, you’ll be able to choose from thousands of instructor-led classes, scenic rides and Peloton Lanebreak—a gamified workout inspired by music. In addition to cycling classes, your membership gives you access to other instructor-led programs like running, walking, Bootcamp, cardio, yoga, strength training, boxing, meditation, Pilates and Barre. One unique feature of Peloton is its member-driven community. You’ll notice this during live and on-demand classes through the leaderboard and high-fives.
It’s important to point out that Peloton does not offer cage or dual-sided pedals. Instead it comes with Delta-compatible cleats. The maximum user weight is another possible downside. At 297 pounds, it is lower than bikes in a similar price range, so make sure to read the fine print before purchasing.
Pros:
- Bike is very quiet
- Large, supportive community of riders
- Sleek design with maximum tech features
Cons:
- Requires a $44 per month subscription for instructor-led classes and scenic rides
- Screen doesn't rotate for off-bike classes or workouts
- More expensive than other home exercise bikes—price starts at $1,445
Best Indoor Cycling Bike Under $500: Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike
YOSUDA
Key specs
- Resistance: Infinite friction resistance
- Rider weight capacity: 270 pounds
- Dimensions: 40 inches x 22 inches x 45 inches
- Warranty: Three months overall framework, one year free parts replacement
- Digital display size: Small LCD monitor
- Connectivity: N/A
Cycling on a budget is a top priority for many exercise enthusiasts. That’s why the Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike is our top pick for the best bike under $500. Simple, safe and effective, this affordable ride is built with solid steel construction and comes with a 35-pound flywheel for added stability while cycling. It also has adjustable caged foot pedals for more support when standing and a four-way padded seat for extra comfort.
The attached LCD monitor displays your time, speed, distance, calories burned and odometer. Plus, it comes with an iPad mount, so you can listen to music, stream fitness content or watch Netflix.
One downside of the Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike is the LCD monitor does not measure cadence, which is the number of revolutions your pedals make per minute. Additionally, the maximum user weight is on the lower end, and it has friction resistance instead of magnetic, but for the price, this bike is definitely worth a try.
Pros:
- Comes with an iPad holder
- Toe cages offer extra grip
- Heavy-duty steel frame
Cons:
- Basic bike features and minimal metrics
- Low rider weight capacity
Best Indoor Cycling Bike for Short Riders: Keiser M3i Indoor Cycle
Keiser
Key specs
- Resistance: Magnetic resistance
- Rider weight capacity: 350 pounds
- Dimensions: 25.98 inches x 45 inches x 48.98 inches
- Warranty: 10 years structural; three years cylinders, displays, processor boxes and thumb buttons; two years compressor and dryer, cables, pulleys and bearings; one year chrome
- Digital display size: Small digital display
- Connectivity: Bluetooth wireless signal for open API for tablets and smartphones
If an exercise bike is too large or doesn’t provide the right adjustments for smaller body frames, you compromise safety and the entire workout experience. That’s why we recommend the Keiser M3i Indoor Cycle for shorter riders who need a frame that fits. Not only is the bike compact in size, but it also boasts a unique V-shape rear-wheel design, which mimics different road bike frames and accommodates users from four feet 10 inches to seven feet tall. Plus, the sturdy build works for riders up to 350 pounds. This premium indoor exercise bike also comes with a media tray, digital display, adjustable handlebars with a wide array of hand positions, stretch pad and hybrid pedals that work for SPD riders or any type of footwear. The digital display is small, but intuitive and simple to read, and shows cadence, power, calories, heart rate, ride time, odometer, trip distance and gear, all on one screen.
While not a requirement, you can expand the compatibility by purchasing an M Series Converter. This allows the bike to connect to certain fitness and cycling apps by converting the Bluetooth information from the bike into data that is usable by other apps. The Keiser M3i Indoor Cycle has a lot of perks, but it also comes with a hefty price tag starting at $2,460.
Pros:
- Comprehensive warranty
- Comes with attached media tray
- Frame mimics different road bike frames
Cons:
- Very expensive at $2,460
- M Connect Bluetooth can be tricky to set up
- No touchscreen
Best Indoor Cycling Bike for Small Spaces: Exerpeutic Folding Exercise Bike
Exerpeutic
Key specs
- Resistance: Eight levels of magnetic resistance
- Rider weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Dimensions: 19 inches x 31 inches x 46 inches
- Warranty: One year frame, 90 days all other parts
- Digital display size: 3.5 inch x 1.5 inch LCD screen
Small spaces require equipment with a tiny footprint, which is why the Exerpeutic Folding Exercise Bike is our top pick for the best bike for small spaces. With a 22-inch x 20-inch footprint, the Experpeutic folds up into half its size for storage. Other notable features include a large 15-inch x 10-inch seat that provides comfortable support for those longer rides and a good-sized LCD display that shows distance, calories burned, time, speed and heart rate. The bike has an eight-level magnetic tension control system and the foot straps are adjustable to your foot size.
Even though the Exerpeutic does not come with a connected display, you can access workouts, stats, and other programs with a premium subscription to the My Cloud Fitness app. The Exerpeutic has a limited height range it can accommodate—five feet three inches to six feet one inch, so make sure to test it out first if you’re on the shorter or taller end. That said, the maximum user weight is 300 pounds, which is higher than other foldable indoor cycling bikes.
Pros:
- Large, comfortable seat
- High user weight for compact bike
- Easy to move and store
Cons:
- Only eight levels of resistance
- Fixed handlebars
- Basic bike features and minimal metrics
Benefits of Using an Indoor Cycling Bike
Working out on an indoor cycling bike offers numerous physical and mental health benefits including:
- Indoor cycling bikes are convenient and allow you to exercise on your timeline
- They provide a low-impact workout that is gentle on your joints
- Exercise bikes help boost cardiovascular health and endurance
- They strengthen lower body muscles like the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes and calves
- Indoor bikes are safer than riding outdoors
- They can help you burn calories and lose weight, when combined with a healthy eating program
- Indoor exercise bikes provide an excellent aerobic workout. Research suggests that regular cardiovascular or aerobic exercise may help reduce stress, improve mood and boost brain health
What to Look for in an Indoor Cycling Bike
When shopping for an indoor cycling bike, it’s important to consider various features like pedal setups, adjustable parts and connectivity. The best exercise bikes give users a variety of options to maximize their cycling experience. This includes things like:
- Different types of pedal setups: Exercise bikes offer different types of pedal setups. If you want the option of clipping in with cycling shoes or wearing regular shoes, look for a hybrid pedal with SPD clips on one side and a flat pedal surface on the other. But if cycling shoes or cleats are not a priority, a bike with shoe cages will provide stability while exercising. Some bikes come with a flat pedal, similar to a regular bike. While functional, they do not provide as much stability as toe cages or allow you to generate as much force as clip pedals.
- Adjustable seat and handlebars: Being able to adjust a seat up or down is a necessity. Some higher-end bikes, like Peloton, also allow you to slide the seat forward and back. Adjustable handlebars give you the option to raise or lower the bars for different users and comfort levels.
- Connected screen: A connected screen that streams live and on-demand classes is a must-have for many people. Some premium models even have a swiveling screen that allows you to do off-bike workouts like HIIT, yoga and Pilates.
In addition to the features listed above, you’ll also want to consider power, portability, cost and subscription requirements.
Power
The power you generate from an exercise bike comes from the resistance level. Some bikes only offer eight to 10 resistance levels, while others top out at 100. For maximum output, look for a bike with multiple resistance levels. This allows you to alternate work intervals of high cadence and low resistance with low cadence and high resistance intervals. Indoor cycling bikes that offer less than 10 resistance levels may not be enough for intermediate to advanced fitness levels.
Portability
Several high-quality indoor exercise bikes require a decent-sized footprint. They’re also heavy and more difficult to move or store in an alternate location. If you go with a heavier bike that’s designed to stay in one place, look for a model with wheels up front or in the back for easier transport if you need to move it. But if space is an issue, consider a foldable exercise bike. This gives you the freedom to move and store the bike out of sight when not using it, which is a plus for people who live in apartments or other small spaces.
Cost
Cost is a significant factor when choosing an exercise bike. In general, indoor exercise bikes range in price from $115 for a basic foldable model to well over $4,000 for a premium bike built for serious cyclists. Some online retailers like Amazon offer bikes at a reduced price, so it’s worth shopping around making a purchase.
Subscription requirements
Exercise bikes with a connected screen require a monthly subscription for the best experience. This allows you to stream live and on-demand spin classes to the touch screen for a fee. Other bikes rely on fitness apps that you download onto a personal device like a smartphone or tablet for instructor-led classes. Monthly subscription fees for connected bikes like the NordicTrack SS2i Studio Bike and Peloton range from $39 to $44. On the other hand, fitness apps are optional and require a one-time download fee or a monthly subscription of $10 to $20.
Indoor cycling bike accessories
While not a necessity, indoor cycling accessories can definitely make your experience more enjoyable. Here are some accessories you may want to consider adding to your exercise bike.
- Water bottle
- Water bottle holder
- Heart rate monitor or fitness tracker
- Cycling shoes
- Sweat towel
- Dumbbells for on and off-bike classes
- Clip fan
- Cushioned seat cover
- Bike phone mount
- Padded bike shorts
- Wireless headphones
- Tablet holder for an iPad, smartphone or other electronics to stream on-demand or live classes, watch Netflix or catch up on the daily news
Indoor Cycling Bike FAQs
Is indoor cycling good for weight loss?
Losing weight requires a combination of healthy eating patterns, exercise and stress management. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a gradual and steady weight loss of one to two pounds per week is ideal. Incorporating indoor cycling into an overall fitness routine is an excellent way to burn calories and improve cardiovascular health. On average, cycling can burn between 290 and 590 calories per hour in a 154-pound person, depending on the intensity level. Other home and gym equipment, such as ellipticals, recumbent bikes and treadmills also provide a calorie-burning experience.
How does indoor cycling change your body shape?
Indoor cycling is a great way to work on changing your body shape, but it's important to factor in your diet as well. Nutrition and exercise work hand in hand to create lean muscle mass and improved cardiovascular endurance. Protein powder is studied for its role in muscle growth and nutritional support.
What is the difference between a spin bike and a stationary bike?
Spin bikes or indoor cycling bikes and stationary bikes both offer an excellent cardiovascular workout. Stationary bikes are a mainstay in fitness facilities, physical therapy clinics and rehabilitation centers. They allow users to sit more upright and generally have fewer tech features. Additionally, stationary bikes are not intended for clip shoes or standing intervals. A spin or indoor cycling bike, on the other hand, mimics a road bike and offers a more realistic outdoor experience. With a spin bike, you can sit upright, hunch over in a riding position or stand. You also have the option of clipping in.
What muscles does indoor cycling work?
Indoor cycling works several lower body muscles, including your quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes and calves. You’ll also recruit upper body muscles while standing and pedaling at a high cadence or resistance. Some cycling classes incorporate dumbbells to target the upper body muscles, giving you a full-body workout. This allows you to use your back, shoulders, biceps and triceps. And don’t forget about the core muscles, which includes rectus abdominis, internal and external obliques, transversus abdominis, lumbar multifidus and erector spinae. Engaging these critical stabilizers helps power you through even the toughest workouts.
What is a flywheel and what does it do?
A flywheel creates resistance on an exercise bike. It’s connected to the pedals by a belt (belt drive) or chain (chain drive), allowing it to spin as you pedal. A heavier flywheel requires more energy to get it moving, which mimics a road bike experience. It also gives you a smoother ride since you maintain momentum. On an exercise bike with magnetic resistance, you will see magnets on either side of the flywheel. When the magnets move closer to the flywheel, resistance increases, whereas moving them away reduces the resistance.
How should indoor cycling shoes fit?
Cycling shoes will feel snug and stiff. You should have room to wiggle your toes when the shoes are buckled. The heel area should fit snug, but not tight. When choosing a size, go with the same size you wear for a running shoe.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking to fine-tune your cycling skills or add a new cardio workout to your fitness routine, an indoor cycling bike is a great investment for a home gym. Finding the best indoor cycling bike that fits your budget, home workout space and goals is crucial. That’s why we included different styles and price points in this roundup. If possible, try a few of these models in store or at a local gym to see how they fit and feel. But if you can’t find an exercise bike to test drive before you buy, we have confidence that you’ll find the right indoor cycling bike in our guide.
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.
