The 10 Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes for At-Home Cardio Workouts in 2024
The products featured in this article have been independently reviewed. When you buy something through the retail links on this page, we may earn commission at no cost to you, the reader. Sports Illustrated editorial staff are not involved in the creation of this content. Learn more here.
While recumbent stationary bikes aren’t the first piece of fitness equipment most folks think about when outfitting a home gym, these machines can offer users an effective workout, so they’re definitely worthy of a closer look.
Unlike typical stationary bikes, recumbent bikes allow users to sit in a comfortable reclined position.
“Recumbent bikes have lots of benefits, which makes them a great choice for lots of people. They provide excellent cardiovascular exercise, helping to improve heart health,” says Lalitha Bhowani-McSorley, a physiotherapist at Brentwood Physiotherapy Calgary.
With seats that are wider and lower to the ground, they also feel a bit more stable, and are easier to get on and off of. On the whole, stationary recumbent bikes promote good spinal alignment, and they provide a safe, effective and low-impact workout. These seated bikes are particularly beneficial to seniors, novices and anyone with limited mobility.
Similar to stationary bikes (or any other type of home fitness equipment), recumbent bikes come with varying levels of resistance, differences in adjustability and size, and myriad high-tech and low-tech options—there’s a lot to unpack.
So, to help you make sense of it all, we’ve curated a list of the best recumbent exercise bikes. We also cover why recumbent bikes may belong in your home gym, things to consider when buying a recumbent bike in 2024 and how to use your bike properly once you’ve made your purchase.
Our Picks for the Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes of 2024:
- Best Overall Recumbent Exercise Bike: NordicTrack Commercial R35
- Runner-Up Recumbent Exercise Bike: Sole LCR
- Best Recumbent Exercise Bike with Bluetooth: NordicTrack Commercial R35
- Most Comfortable Recumbent Exercise Bike: Sole Fitness R92
- Best Recumbent Bike with Arm Exerciser: Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical
- Best Budget Recumbent Exercise Bike: XTERRA SB150
- Best Folding Recumbent Exercise Bike: Ironman Exerpeutic 400XL
- Best Recumbent Exercise Bike for Seniors: Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Smart Recumbent Exercise Bike
Best Overall Recumbent Exercise Bike: NordicTrack Commercial R35
NordicTrack + SI Showcase
Key Features:
- Price: $1,499
- Resistance: Magnetic
- User weight capacity: 350 pounds
- Screen/monitor: 14-inch touch screen
- Dimensions: 68.22 inches L x 23.69 inches W x 53.42 inches H
- Weight: 192 pounds
- Warranty: 10-Year frame warranty, two-year parts warranty, one-year labor warranty
The NordicTrack Commercial R35 tops our list as the overall best recumbent bike with exercise programs. While $1,500 may seem a little spendy for a recumbent bike, but the NordicTrack commercial R35 comes with an impressive list of features to back it up.
While most stationary bikes only offer a varied workout by adjusting the pedal resistance, this often causes friction which can be noisy. The NordicTrack Commercial R35, however, is equipped with SMR (Silent Magnetic Resistance), which keeps the noise to a minimum. Beyond its quiet operation, this bike is equipped with 26 levels of resistance and a 25-pound flywheel for a smooth ride. It also features an ergonomic seat design to improve lumbar support, built-in speakers and a self-adjusting fan.
During use, one tester said it felt ideal “for people who can’t use a traditional exercise bike or are recovering from an injury,” adding, “It’s a good way to stay active while reading a book, enjoying iFIT programming or watching TV.”
Whereas other recumbent bikes on the market that typically have five to 10-inch screens, the R35 has a sleek 14-inch HD Smart touchscreen. Through this screen, you can connect to the iFit app, where you can tune in to live and on-demand workouts, stream cycling classes, see your performance stats and check out live leaderboards to give you a motivation boost if need be.
The iFit Family membership is complimentary for the first 30 days, and if you know anything about iFit, then you know it has an impressive library of workouts to choose from. Impressively, the R35 also features Google Maps workout technology, so whether you want to go biking in Prague, check out Yosemite Falls or just run someplace local, you can go wherever your mood takes you. Even better, a single iFit membership includes up to five profiles on the R35.
Keep in mind that the R35 is a commercial quality recumbent bike, so while it has a pretty large footprint, that also makes it a robust piece of exercise equipment. The R35 is an excellent choice for larger riders who need generous seating and a higher weight capacity, as well as those who like to lean into their tech side.
What we like
- Interactive programming and screen makes for very immersive experience
- Great for users of all sizes
What to consider
- Heavy frame and larger footprint
Runner-Up Best Recumbent Bike: Sole LCR
Sole + SI Showcase
Key Features:
- Price: $1,799.99
- Resistance: Magnetic
- User weight capacity: 350 pounds
- Screen/monitor: LCD monitor
- Dimensions: 29 inches L x 29 inches W x 56 inches H
- Weight: 152 pounds
- Warranty: One-year labor warranty, three-year parts warranty, lifetime frame warranty, two-year parts and electronics warranty
While the Sole LCR is great for physical therapy clinics or gyms, it’s equally useful in your home. Because it’s designed for commercial use, it should come as no surprise that the Sole LCR is built with a solid steel frame which makes it quite stable. And while you may expect a commercial recumbent bike to take up a large footprint in your home, this bike is relatively small, coming in at 30 inches wide. At that size, it’s well suited for many home gyms. This recumbent bike is equipped with magnetic resistance, so it operates quietly, and users can choose from 40 preset resistance levels. It features a wide cushioned seat and padded backrest for superior comfort, as well as ergonomically designed pedals that allow your feet to maintain a solid connection with the pedal even at the top of the stroke.
The Sole LCR features a 10-inch LCD display in the console, and it’s easy to see as the screen is backlit and displays large black digital numbers. Digging a little deeper, users will find 10 preset programs built into the console—six standard programs, two heart programs and two custom programs. Moreover, there are heart rate sensors in the handlebars next to the seats, and the machine comes with a chest strap that syncs to the machine to display your heart rate metrics on the screen. A tablet holder attached to the top of a console, fans, speakers and a headphone jack round out the goodies on this recumbent bike.
What we like
- Great for those who want to track their heart rate during workouts
- Comes with plenty of features to enhance user experience
What to consider
- Not a ton of adjustability
Best Recumbent Exercise Bike with Bluetooth: NordicTrack Commercial R35
NordicTrack + SI Showcase
Key features:
- Price: $1,499
- Resistance: Magnetic
- Weight capacity: 350 pounds
- Screen/monitor: 14-inch touch screen
- Dimensions: 68.22 inches L x 23.69 inches W x 53.42 inches H
- Weight: 192 pounds
- Warranty: 10-year frame warranty, two-year parts warranty, one-year labor warranty
- User weight capacity: 350 pounds
The NordicTrack Commercial R35 has a 14-inch HD smart touch screen that has Bluetooth audio capabilities. You can choose to subscribe to iFit or use this machine in manual mode and watch as your distance, time duration, calories burned, speed, incline and heart rate (monitoring device not included) are monitored. An iFit membership is $39 per month and allows you to stream classes and follow along with the trainer as the resistance automatically adjusts. You can also connect Bluetooth headphones to the speakers—ideal for people who’ll be working out in a shared space.
The pedals are extra wide to give your feet plenty of space. The oversized seat has a back for lumbar support, and should be comfortable for various body types. The frame is made of commercial-grade steel and has four oversized levelers that can be adjusted to keep the recumbent bike stable.
What we like
- Lots of features and interactive programming
- Seat and pedals designed for larger individuals
What to consider
- Monthly iFIT subscription recommended to get the most out of the bike
Most Comfortable Recumbent Exercise Bike: Sole Fitness R92
Sole + SI Showcase
Key features:
- Price: $999.99
- Resistance: ECB 20 Levels
- User weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Screen/monitor: 9-inch LCD
- Dimensions: 60 inches L x 29 inches W x 56 inches H
- Weight: 130 pounds
- Warranty: One year labor, two years parts/electronic, lifetime frame warranty
If you’ve ever taken a spin class, you know how uncomfortable some exercise bikes can be. The Sole Fitness R92 is designed with comfort in mind, making it our pick for the most comfortable recumbent exercise bike.
The bike uses eddy current brake (ECB) technology for resistance, which is a type of electromagnetic resistance with few moving parts—meaning less required maintenance. The R92’s two-degree inward slanted design of its foot pedals is aimed to place your body in a safe position, helping alleviate any pain or discomfort you may sometimes experience on a sitting exercise bike. Another bonus, the R92’s seat is padded and adjustable. Built-in fans help keep you cool while you work out. Use the attached tablet holder to watch your favorite show or crush an online exercise class from your bike. You can also choose from one of the R92’s six included workout programs to help reach your fitness goals.
One user on the Sole Fitness website wrote this “recumbent bike is comfortable and does it all. It has every convenience and possibility for increasing your workout.” However, several users complained that because there is no on or off switch, they have to unplug the bike to turn it off after each use.
What we like
- Designed to be more comfortable for long periods of use
- Should require less maintenance than other recumbent bikes
What to consider
- No on/off switch which may be irksome
Best Recumbent Bike with Arm Exerciser: Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical
Teeter + SI Showcase
Key features:
- Price: $899
- Resistance: Magnetic (13 levels)
- User weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Screen/monitor: LCD monitor
- Dimensions: 55.25 inches L x 38.0 inches W x 52.5 inches H
- Weight: 110.2 pounds
- Warranty: Two-year warranty
Recumbent exercise bikes engage the muscles in your lower body, and while they can provide a good, low-impact cardio workout, they typically do little else for your upper body.
For those who want to keep their joints fluid and get a full-body workout with each session, you might consider the Teeter FreeStep Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical. As its name implies, this is a recumbent bike and elliptical all rolled into one machine, so the machine essentially falls into the cross-training category.
Like many recumbent bikes, The Teeter Freestep is equipped with magnetic resistance that offers a smooth ride, and you can choose from 13 resistance levels. Both the seats and the handles of the Teeter Freestep are adjustable; users can adjust the height and the recline positions of the seat independently to find a comfortable fit, and the handlebars can be adjusted to target different muscle groups.
The Teeter Freestep features a digital console that tracks the usual metrics, like time, distance, speed and calories burned. And since the console keeps it simple, there should be no expectation of pre-programmed workouts. Unfortunately, that's really all there is to it, which might be quite a disappointment to some considering its $900 price tag.
That said, the Teeter Freestep has a built-in device stand, so you can use your own tablet or phone to access workout programs or watch a movie while you pedal. It's worth noting that Teeter also offers the Teeter Move app for both iOS and Android so users looking for trainer-led workouts can find it there.
It's also worth noting that the Teeter FreeStep has a 300-pound weight limit. And while you may think that information may not apply to you if you don't weigh 300 pounds, there is something to be gleaned from it. Typically, recumbent bikes with a higher weight limit tend to be more robust. So, as you might have guessed, a higher maximum weight limit could point to a high-quality machine.
What we like
- Higher weight limit than many options
- Seat and handlebars are adjustable for a comfortable ride
What to consider
- Fairly pricey
Best Budget Recumbent Exercise Bike: XTERRA SB150
XTERRA + SI Showcase
Key features:
- Price: $399
- Resistance: 24 levels of magnetic resistance
- User weight capacity: 265 pounds
- Screen/monitor: 3.7-inch blue backlit LCD display
- Dimensions: 58.3 inches L x 24.8 inches W x 45.3 inches H
- Weight: 72 pounds
- Warranty: One-year frame, brake and parts
If you’re in the market for a new sit-down exercise bike that allows you to work up a sweat without working out your wallet, check out the XTERRA SB150. It’s our pick for the best budget recumbent exercise bike because while it saves you cash, it’s not short on features.
The XTERRA SB150 Recumbent Bike comes with 24 levels of resistance and 12 pre-set programs including five heart rate programs. Hand pulse grips on the side of the seat help monitor your metrics while you ride. While the 3.7-inch blue backlit LCD display is significantly smaller and simpler than screens on some of the other exercise bikes on our list, it does allow you to track your speed, distance, calories and heart rate. One thing we like about the XTERRA SB150 Recumbent Bike is that it has a smaller footprint than some of the other exercise bikes we’ve featured. Built-in transport wheels make it easy to move your bike out of the way when you’re not using it.
Several users on the XTERRA website said they were glad they purchased the SB150, especially because they were looking for a budget-friendly bike. One user writes, “The pedals are smooth and quiet. Heart rate monitor works and the seat is large which is nice.”
What we like
- Smaller footprint than other options
- Includes preset programs
What to consider
- LCD screen is very basic
Best Folding Recumbent Exercise Bike: Ironman Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike
Ironman + SI Showcase
Key features:
- Price: $152.31
- Resistance: Magnetic
- User weight capacity: 300 pounds
- Screen/monitor: LCD monitor
- Dimensions: 33 inches L x 19 inches W x 46 inches H
- Weight: 43 pounds
- Warranty: One-year limited warranty
If you’re looking for a foldable recumbent bike that you can move out of sight between workout sessions, you might consider the Ironman Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike. But make no mistake, while this recumbent bike has a space-saving design, you’re not giving anything up in terms of functionality.
The Ironman Exerpeutic 400XL is a compact recumbent bike, but it still features a large comfortable seat and backrest for exceptional comfort and support, and its semi-recumbent design provides easy entry and exit. And while it’s pretty lightweight at 43 pounds, it’s a solid bike that doesn’t rock or move while you’re pedaling. The Ironman Exerpeutic 400XL also features a V-belt double-drive transmission system and a precision-balanced flywheel that further enhances the smoothness of your workout while keeping the noise to a minimum.
Users will find eight levels of magnetic resistance that are easily adjusted, courtesy of the tension control knob located just beneath the console.
Speaking of consoles, the Ironman Exerpeutic 400XL is equipped with a user-friendly, easy-to-read LCD display that tracks the performance stats you’d expect, such as distance, calories, time, speed and heart rate. It’s worth noting here that the performance stats, while available, may not be the most accurate. In order to have an accurate assessment of these performance statistics, users typically need to input specifics such as their height and weight, but there’s no way to do that with this machine which is understandable given its price point.
Other great features of the Ironman Exerpeutic 400XL include extendable leg stabilizers, pulse sensors on the handlebars, large pedals with safety straps and transport wheels for mobility.
What we like
- Great for small spaces
- Easy to fold and hide when not in use
What to consider
- Metric tracking on LCD screen isn’t very accurate
Best Recumbent Exercise Bike for Seniors: Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Smart Recumbent Exercise Bike
Sunny Health and Fitness + SI Showcase
Key features:
- Price: $279.97
- Resistance: Magnetic
- User weight capacity: 220 pounds
- Screen/monitor: LCD Monitor
- Dimensions: 52.4 inches L X 26.4 inches W X 41.5 inches H
- Weight: 58.6 pounds
- Warranty: Three year warranty on the structural frame, 180 days on other parts and components
A recumbent exercise bike like the Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Smart Recumbent Exercise Bike can be a big boon for senior users, thanks to its stable build, simple operation and low-impact exercise capabilities. We like that it has features to make starting your ride super simple: Its “step-through” design helps ensure you can easily access the seat to mount and dismount the bike, helping to avoid a fall. Once you’re on the bike, the seat can be moved forward and backward without needing to get up, making for super-easy fit adjustments. And the self-leveling pedals eliminate fumbling—you can just slip your feet in and start your workout. Plus, if you’re concerned with the price tag, Sunny Health and Fitness is hard to argue with. The home workout bike carries an appealing $279.99 cost—far lower than some of its competitors.
Users can also appreciate the bike’s quiet magnetic resistance, handlebar heart rate monitors and LCD screen to track stats.
There are drawbacks, however, namely that you’ll have neither simple, pre-programmed workouts to follow, nor trainer-led workouts on a screen—hardly surprising, given the bike’s price point. Ultimately, this exercise bike is good for seniors seeking an unfussy recumbent bike that’s competitively priced.
“I will often recommend patients of mine who are recovering from injuries or surgeries, like a knee or hip replacement, to use these [type of] bikes as they are low-impact,” says Bhowani-McSorley.
What we like
- Budget-friendly option
- No-frills bike that’s easy to use
What to consider
- No additional features
Why Buy a Recumbent Exercise Bike?
Unlike stationary bikes, recumbent bikes allow you to ride in a reclined position. And while this may look like a “breezy” way to get your daily activity in, don’t let the laid-back look of a recumbent bike fool you. Recumbent bikes are an excellent way to strengthen your heart, reduce high blood pressure, decrease your resting heart rate, relieve stress and boost your mood. Also, unlike stationary bikes, recumbent bikes put less stress on your joints while you get your cardio in. Ultimately, it’s just a matter of preference or comfort. Additionally, the reclined position can be great for beginners, seniors and those with mobility issues or other physical limitations.
Who Is a Recumbent Exercise Bike Good For?
Recumbent bikes provide effective cardiovascular workouts, and they’re good for anyone at any fitness level.
“The recumbent position is more comfortable for many people, especially those with back problems, joint pain, knee replacements and hip replacements, as it reduces stress on the lower back and minimizes impact on the joints,” McSorley says. “This makes it a great option for individuals with conditions like arthritis or chronic pain.”
While a recumbent bike could be used by almost anyone, it's probably not the right fit you’re looking for an intense workout.
“However, [recumbent bikes] can be great for older adults, people who may be deconditioned, those who have balance or safety concerns or as a good starting point for those new to fitness,” says Samantha April, a physical therapist at Renew Wellness in Raleigh, NC.
What to Look for in a Recumbent Exercise Bike
When shopping for a recumbent bike, the details matter; the tech, adjustability and resistance levels all play an important role in your overall enjoyment, and they can ultimately determine whether you go the distance—or not.
Tech
When shopping for a recumbent exercise bike, it’s important to choose a bike that has the right amount of tech for your purposes and aptitude. For some people, tech can be make or break, whereas, for others, tech is just an additional feature. If you choose a high-tech option, you know what you’re looking for. If you choose a low-tech option, just be sure that, at the very least, you can see basic performance stats and fitness metrics so you can keep track of your progress and get the most out of the machine.
Size and portability
Recumbent exercise bikes come in a wide range of sizes and portability options, so when you’re making your shortlist, be sure to keep those factors in mind. Obviously, if you live in an apartment, you’re going to want a bike that doesn’t feel like another roommate. Plus, you’d probably want a bike that operates quietly lest you annoy the neighbors. On the contrary, if you live in a house and you have enough space to dedicate to a recumbent exercise bike, this can really open up your options.
In addition to size, you may also want to think about portability. If your bike is going to stay in one spot, this is obviously not going to be a concern, but if you need to move the bike around for whatever reason, you might want to purchase a model that has transport wheels to make the task a little easier.
Adjustability
Like most pieces of exercise equipment, recumbent bikes are not a one-size-fits-all kind of deal. So, when shopping for a recumbent bike, you should think about buying a model that allows you to make any adjustments needed to accommodate a comfortable stride. This goes double if you expect to share the machine with housemates or partners.
“Recumbent bikes are easily adjustable and provide varying levels of resistance to provide a cardiovascular workout scalable based on age and fitness level,” April says.
Resistance
Recumbent exercise bikes typically use magnetic tension resistance on the flywheel to create a smooth, realistic feeling ride. Typically, the heavier the flywheel, the more realistic the riding experience. So, be sure to check flywheel weights wherever possible.
Cost
Cost is often a defining factor for any type of large purchase. For those considering a recumbent bike, the considerations are no different. Even a cursory search on the internet will reveal that recumbent bikes come in a wide range of price points. Ultimately, you’ll need to find the bike that offers all the functionality you want at a price you can afford.
Recumbent Bike FAQs:
What muscles does a recumbent bike work?
Recumbent bikes work the muscles in your legs; this includes your glutes, quads, hamstrings and lower legs.
How often should I use a recumbent bike?
There are no hard and fast rules for how often you should use a recumbent bike, but as far as physical activity goes, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity per week. Whether you choose to use your recumbent bike more often really depends on your own fitness goals.
How should you sit on a recumbent bike?
When using a recumbent bike, proper positioning is important to minimize the risk of injury or discomfort. If your seat is in the correct position, you’ll have a slight bend in the knee when your foot is on the pedal. If your knees are locked out, you cannot reach the pedals, or your knee is bent at a 90-degree angle at the top of each rotation, you’ll want to adjust your seat. Also , you’ll want to make sure you can adjust the seat enough to comfortably reach the handlebars and use the controls on the screen.
Do recumbent bikes burn belly fat?
While weight loss that targets one area of the body is not possible, a good workout on a recumbent bike will burn calories. Regular workout routines on a recumbent bike can lead to an overall weight loss—including your stomach. So, while you can’t specifically target belly fat, you likely see a reduction in your waistline with regular exercise.
Are recumbent bikes good for arthritic knees?
Recumbent bikes are an excellent choice for those with arthritic knees. These bikes provide a low-impact exercise that doesn’t stress your knees and joints like running or a HIIT workout would, for example.
How many calories does a recumbent exercise bike burn?
While the amount of calories you burn in any given workout largely depends on factors like your weight and height, a good rule of thumb is that recumbent bikes can burn anywhere between 400–450 calories per hour.
Is it O.K. to ride a recumbent bike everyday?
You should consult your doctor before embarking on any exercise plan that’s ambitious enough to include daily exertion. And, you’ll want to include rest days in your workout routine to give your body time to recover.
With that in mind, you’re probably fine to ride a recumbent bike everyday, even if that means using it as a warmup for a workout or a way to get a few minutes of exercise in. Why? Because unlike some of the alternative types of equipment, a recumbent bike is one of the most joint and tendon friendly out there.
Is a recumbent bike better than a treadmill?
“Better” is subjective, so the answer may vary as to whether a recumbent bike or treadmill is best to add to your home gym based on personal preference. If you’re looking for low-impact exercise that builds strength in the legs without straining your back and knees, a recumbent bike will be the better fit. If you’re more focused on burning calories, a treadmill typically offers greater impact. Either option will improve heart cardio and muscular endurance.
Final Thoughts
Recumbent bikes are an excellent choice for anyone who wants a low-impact workout that doesn’t take an unnecessary toll on their joints. While they allow users to recline while working out, make no mistake, the workout on a recumbent bike will still be a challenge. When choosing a recumbent bike, think about resistance levels, adjustability and the amount of tech you want or what you’re comfortable with.
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.
