Exercise bikes are super popular when it comes to home cardio machines. Among the various types of bikes available in the market, recumbent bikes are the best choice for injury rehabilitation, seniors, and anyone who doesn’t want to put too much pressure on their joints while exercising, but still wish to get cardio benefits. Work out in the comfort of your own homes with these great machines.
We put a selection of good recumbent bikes to the test, and after much analysing and evaluation, present our list of the best 10 recumbent exercise bikes for the year 2020. We will also include a list of pros and cons along with the features to help you find what you’re looking for easier.
Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes
Without further ado, let’s start our rundown of the top 10 recumbent bikes of 2020 that will change the way you pedal.
MCLJR Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike
Product Features:
- Advanced Bluetooth technology
- Padded seat with a supportive back
- 8 resistance levels
- Integrated phone/tablet holder
The MCLJR Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike is one powerhouse of a machine with multiple flashy features alongside maximum usability. After looking at this one, there wasn’t much question as to which model would take the crown for the best recumbent bike of 2020!
The large LCD screen blended with smart technology provides an amazingly clear and clean display. The monitor displays data about the workout including distance, speed, and time to help you track your progress. Keep records of your progress on your phone by connecting it with Bluetooth.
The compact size will allow you to fit it in any corner of the house. The best thing about this would probably be the eight resistance levels, allowing a smooth transition from one level to another without worrying about the noise.
Pros
- Handlebars and the frame are fully customizable.
- Fits anyone between 5.4 feet to 6.5 feet.
- The handlebar quality is top-notch.
Cons
- The monitor is too small to show details.
LHY SAVE Professional Recumbent Bike
Product Features:
- Ergonomic with anti-skid pedals
- Tablet support
- Backrest and two types of armrest
- Weight tolerance up to 297lbs.
LHY SAVE is definitely one of the aces of the cardio machinery industry. Their Professional Recumbent Bike comes with some very cool features which makes it extremely functional and a top contender on the list.
The exercise bike in itself is retractable, which means it’s a great option for people of different heights; great choice for adding to a professional gym too. The high definition display shows everything you would need to monitor while on the machine – heart rate, calories burned, speed, time, and a handful others.
The two-way flywheel design enables users to ride the equipment both clockwise and counterclockwise. The electromagnetic system makes sure your exercising session is conducted with the minimum sound. This bike is great for both beginners and confirmed users.
Pros
- Ergonomic with anti-skid pedals
- Tablet support
- Backrest and two types of armrest
- Weight tolerance up to 297lbs.
Cons
- Somewhat bulky despite being retractable
- The armrest’s design isn’t the best
TechFit R410 Recumbent Exercise Bike
Product Features:
- Pulse sensor handles
- 7 kg flywheel system
- Adjustable seating
- Non-slip pedals
TechFit’s R410 Recumbent Exercise Bike will recreate the feeling of working out at the gym within the comforts of your home.
If you’re looking for a recumbent bike that provides some great features, is usable by the entire family (beginners, pros, and seniors alike), and all that within a good budget, this one will fit the bill.
The flywheel system on the model gives an easy and professional riding, while the eight degrees pedal resistance can satisfy different levels of training – from easy to super strenuous. Body signals as well as the time, speed, and distance are displayed on the multi-functional screen.
The maximum weight this bike can endure is an impressive 265lb. The pedals are equipped with safety straps to ensure optimal security during your workouts.
Pros
- Comfortable handles and back support
- Transportation made easy with the included wheels
- Saddles is adjustable for user’s height
- Robust build quality
Cons
- The seat malfunctions at times and doesn’t slide
- Takes up considerable space
Exerpeutic 900XL Recumbent Exercise Bike
Product Features:
- V-belt drive and precision balanced flywheel for quiet operations
- Transportation wheels
- Big oversized cushion and backrest
- Eight-level magnetic tension
Exerpeutic has an amazing selection of exercise bikes from which anyone can find a great one with their preferred features. This Exerpeutic 900XL Recumbent Exercise Bike in particular, is extra noteworthy for the remarkable performance.
Challenge yourself to do training on all levels with eight-level magnetic tension control.
The LCD display shows everything in big letters so even if you’re leaning back, you won’t have any issue viewing the screen (forget moving every 20 minutes to see your progress!). The weight capacity has been extended to 300lb, making it one of the more heavy-weight models on the rundown.
The unique “Step Thru” feature makes it easier to get on and off from the machine. The handle rails contain heart pulse sensors so you can stay within your designated range.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Comfortable seat design and backrest
- Portable
- Adjustable tension levels
Cons
- Not the most durable
- Can make sudden clunking sounds due to the plastic casing
LCC Recumbent Exercise Bike
Product Features:
- Clear LCD that displays all data
- Two-way flywheel
- Backrest with stool bench
- 8 files resistance adjustment
Combine a recumbent bike that’s good enough for sports enthusiasts with the added benefit of accessing it at home and you get the LLC Recumbent Exercise Bike.
This exercise bike has a particular great construction with high quality materials. The adjustability allows people of different heights to use it comfortably.
A heart rate is attached on the handles so you can measure your heart beat during exercises. It offers smooth transition between various levels of difficulty with the eight resistance control.
The pedals come equipped with safety straps. Two-way magnetic control enables you to ride the machine from both directions. It can bear up to 297 lbs., which makes it a great choice for all weights and sizes.
Pros
- Protective rubber sleeve on the wheel prevents damage to the floor
- Great for people of all ages
- Stable performance
Cons
- More on the pricier side
- Bulky design
Charles Bentley Recumbent Exercise Bike
Product Features:
- Steel frame
- Ergonomic design
- 4 kg flywheel
- 8 level adjustable resistance
The Charles Bentley Recumbent Exercise Bike is everything you could ask for in a bike plus the really unique and sleek design.
Featuring a LCD display, this model offers great visibility of your progress on the monitor. Tune up or tune down your training level with the eight level adjustable resistance.
The magnetic resistance system ensures that you won’t create any noise disturbance while working out. It’s suitable for people of all heights as they can adjust the seating on the machine.
You will have to assemble this by yourself, but customers have stated that it’s quite easy. If you have a tight budget, this will be right up your alley.
Pros
- Steel frame
- Ergonomic design
- 4 kg flywheel
- 8 level adjustable resistance
Cons
- Can only take up to 220 lbs.
Exerpeutic Folding Recumbent Exercise Bike
Product Features:
- Dual transmission flywheel
- Classy design durable build quality
- 3 piece cranking system
- Cushions of the seat are large
When we mentioned Exerpeutic makes some incredible recumbent bikes, we might have skipped that this is why we have three of their creations on our list.
GOLD 525XLR from Exerpeutic has a rather unique design.
It can be folded to fit in any nook of the house. An easy to read large monitor is equipped so you have absolutely no issues viewing it. Eight level of pressure control system gives you enough leverage to shift between different difficulty levels.
It will work for a wide range of heights as it’s incredibly adjustable. You would easily be able to get on or off this bike; great for seniors.
Pros
- Folds to almost half its size when extended
- Easily portable
- Super heavy-duty
Cons
- Significantly more difficult to use for shorter people
400XL Folding Recumbent Bike from Exerpeutic
Product Features:
- 3 piece crank system
- Strong and durable build quality
- 8 different levels
- “Double Drive” transmission
We end the list with another great option from Exerpeutic – The 400XL.
This model also has an interesting design, with a comfortable backrest and cushion. The LCD display tracks your heart rate, speed, distance, time, and calorie count to display it on the monitor, which is very easy to read.
It also features a massive300 lbs. weight capacity. It’s one thing that you wouldn’t guess from the light-looking body frame. The handle pulse sensors help you manage your targeted heart rate zone.
There’s a notable tradeoff between the recumbent and upright seating. You will have to assemble this yourself, but don’t worry as it won’t take you more than half an hour and careful reading of the instructions.
Pros
- Comes at an extremely affordable price
- Folds to half its size
- Sturdy construction
Cons
- Noisier than advertised
- Higher tension levels might cause the snap to tear after prolonged use
What to Consider Before Buying a Recumbent Bike?
A recumbent exercise bike can act as a valuable addition to your home gym – but they can also be some of the more complicated machines to pick out and manage. Before settling on a bike, it’s important to recognize what exact features you’re looking for so you don’t deviate from your target.
This comprehensive guide contains all the essential factors you would need to keep in mind to choose the best option for you.
Available Space
Recumbent bikes tend to be quite sturdy and might even last you a decade depending on the usage. However, this stability comes at a price – sizing. The seats on these bikes are further back than other models which cause them to usually weigh more and occupy more space than spin or upright bikes. There’s not an abundance of folding recumbent bikes.
Prior to purchasing, note where you’re going to keep the bike. Depending on the space you can allot, there will be a number of choices available in the market. As long as you assemble the bike in the perfect space, this shouldn’t be a problem. Don’t go out of your way to take a bulkier bike because it will pose many problems due to its frame.
Budget
Recumbent bikes aren’t the cheapest cardio machines in the market, that’s for sure. Although, don’t fear that a smaller budget won’t let you get an awesome and functional model.
All of the bikes don’t cost an arm and a leg, so stick to a budget and choose from the ones you can afford. Multiple recumbent bikes offer great features at price that won’t break your bank.
Required Features
When it comes to gym equipment or machines, a lot depends on the user’s personal preference. Some prefer ruggedness, while others care a lot about the aesthetics and design of the bike. If you’re looking for a more durable model, you can find a wide array of models to choose from.
These bikes also come with many fancy additional features that are desired by customers. Some of the basic features that people look into while buying recumbent bikes would be – seat design, pedal setup, flywheel designs, range of resistance to give you a better transition of levels from beginner to difficult etc.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
The answer is a very definite yes. While they might not seem as demanding as spin or upright bikes, recumbent bikes provide equal amounts of cardio benefits.
Recumbent bikes offer the same cardio benefits as a treadmill or regular bike without putting excess pressure on the joints. If you’re recovering from an injury, these bikes can be super helpful in maintaining good fitness without stressing out the body.
Recumbent bikes are much easier on the joints, even though walking doesn’t affect the joints as much as running or jumping. The bikes can also help burn calorie at an increased rate and all from within your home. You take the pick!
This depends highly on the level of training. While 20 to 45 minutes can be good for a beginner, someone who can take up the challenge can opt to pedal at high intensity for 30 minutes to really get the heart pumping.
Most of these indoor bikes need little to no maintenance at all. You just need to make sure that the screws are tightly fitted and check into the batteries (if it doesn’t run by console).