Recumbent Bikes Reviews – Our Top Picks and Reviews!

Do recumbent exercise bikes live up to the hype? are they as good as people claim they are? In this article, we’ll be going over everything you need to know about these unique bikes and list some recumbent exercise bike reviews to read.

What Is a Recumbent Bike?

You may have seen them on TV and other people’s homes. If you have ever seen somebody that was riding a strange looking bike to lose weight, it was probably a Recumbent bike you just witnessed. To be very simplistic, a recumbent exercise bike that is stationary. These are usually used indoors, which is why so many people are taking a liking to them as most people prefer exercising in private. This bike gives you a weird positional status which makes things easier in terms of exercising. It still focuses on the basics of exercising that is done with the bike (paddling) but as you have a different kind of position while you are doing so, it is not only a lot of fun but also a great relief in terms of tiredness.

How to go About Choosing a Recumbent Bike

With several different and unique models of Recumbent bikes available, it comes to no surprise that picking out a bike can be a very difficult and tiresome task. They come in different varieties of style, sizes, weights, prices and so much more. Like anything else, it’s all about which one suits your needs the most. Down below are a few things you should take into consideration before buying that recumbent bike you have you eye on but are unsure if it’s right for you.

Price Range

First things first, we need to discuss the price points of these bikes. As of writing this, recumbent bikes averagely go for around $500, which is quite pricey when compared to upright exercise bikes (keep in mind we’re talking about average price) obviously for top notch bikes for both recumbent and upright exercise bikes it will be very expensive. Now depending on how much you plan on using this recumbent bike can make a difference to which price point you should be aiming towards. If you consider yourself to use recumbent bikes quite frequently (weekly) then you should look towards the $1000-$2000 price budget, and if you consider yourself a daily user, then you should be looking at the top notch recumbent bikes priced at around $7000. Yes, it is very costly to say the least, but it’s better to save up and buy a good bike that will last rather than buy a cheap bike that will disappoint you and likely have to replace.

The Seat

We are all different, we each have our own sizes and preference when it comes to seats of any sort. Similar to living room chairs, recumbent bike seats also come in a huge variety of different sizes, materials, and colors. Remember, if you plan on exercising daily and frequently then a nice and comfortable seat is something that is one of the more important aspects to look into. It also should be noted that some seats are reclined in different positions, and some are taken off easier than others, so keep that in mind when purchasing.

Reviews

So now that we’ve covered the ground basics and know what to look out for when searching for a recumbent bike, now comes’ the time to picking out a specific model, right? Even knowing what to look out for, there’s that man features, models and designs out there it can be tough to set your heart on one bike. We’ll try making it easy for you by listing our top ten recumbent bike reviews (in no particular order) and give our intake on them.

Exerpeutic 900XL Extended Capacity Recumbent Bike Included Pulse.

The exerpeutic 900XL recumbent bike is an ideal bike for the regular daily workout. The bike has a very low center of gravity therefore, its stability is not compromising. The bike is fitted with a large seat and pedals to provide comfort during your intense workout. It has got LCD display that plays the vital role of taking your workout data including time taken, heartbeat among others. Exerpeutic 900XL in comparison to other bikes has got pros and cons.

Pros

• It has got a relatively wider seat which provides more comfort.
• It is super smooth and very silent during the workout. This makes it environmentally friendly.
• It has got a low center of gravity making it more stable.
• Its price is pocket-friendly and affordable.
• Has relatively larger pedals that provide a good foot grip.

Cons

• The machine is not flexible since it only comes with basic features.
• A lot of time is consumed during the assembly of the bike.
• One can never adjust the backrest level to the required comfort.
• It do not have a cage or a holder for stuff such as water bottle, tablets or even books.
• The bike is not suitable for people taller than 6’3’’ since these people may find it hard to adjust the seat to fit them.

Frequently Asked Questions about Exerpeutic 900XL

In conclusion, Exerpeutic 900XL bike is the best option for a thorough workout. There is no age limit for using the bike, physical fitness has got no age limit and as long as you have Exerpeutic 900XL in your gym room or even the house then being fit will never be optional since working out on the bike is enjoyable and you will develop that inner drive to keep working out more and more not knowing that you keep becoming more fit the more you use the bike. Best place to look for pricing is here.

Marcy ME 709 Recumbent Exercise Bike

The Marcy ME 709 Recumbent Exercise Bike is a simple and compact recumbent bike that holds the capability to supply an encouraging and effective workout daily. With a small body frame, you don’t need to sacrifice an extensive amount of space, however, you still receive the same benefits the larger models offer. The pedals on the ME-709 are counterbalanced and have foot straps that allow you to adjust them to your own needs. The bike itself includes 8 different fitness tension levels that give you the opportunity to adapt them to your every need on the bike. As every recumbent bike has, the Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike, has multiple pros and cons.

Pros

• Adjustable workout, between 1-8, making it either easier or harder
• Legs rotate both forward and backwards, giving you access to ride in any position
• Length between the seat and pedals adjustable, making it accessible for tall and short people
• Nearly silent because it is a magnetic recumbent bike
• Digital screen allows you to monitor time on the machine, calories burned, distance pedaled, and speed your pedaling at

Cons

• No headrest to rest your head when you are working out on the bike
• Seat lacks a comfortable amount of cushion, therefore it can make pedaling uncomfortable
• No lumbar support for your back when you are riding
• Some issues with rear flywheel and rear axle after using the bike a few times
• Somewhat sturdy, but can move from side to side when pedaling

Frequently Asked Questions about ME-709

Question: Is the seat adjustable
Answer: No, the seat cannot be adjusted, but the length of the center rail is. In the picture, notice the knob there in the middle. That lets you shorten or lengthen your pedal stride, just like highering or lowering a seat of a regular bike. Hope that helps.
Question: What does the “reset” do? How does it work?
Answer: Use the reset button to track daily distance and the time it took. Reset the next day. I haven’t found a way to reset the total distance I’ve ridden. When I press the mode button and get it to “distance ridden” I hit reset and it clears it out.
Question: How much does it weigh?
Answer: About 30-50 pounds, however, It does have wheels so just lift up one end to wheel it from room to room.
Question: Is it really 55 inches long?
Answer: Yes, it can reach up to 55 inches back.
Question: Can someone 6’6 use this bike?
Answer: Yes, a person up to 6’6 can use this bike

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Marcy ME 709 Recumbent Exercise Bike is probably one of the best exercise bikes you can have. There is not an age limit, nor is there any physical requirements to use the bike. People of all sizes and heights can use this bike without any trouble. It is simple to use and can easily help you achieve all of your weight and fitness goals. Best place to look for pricing is here.

Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike

The Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike is the most relevant bike that can associated with an average everyday workout. Within this amazing recumbent bike there are multiple fascinating and unique features. The bike also includes over twenty different programs, two user settings, and progress tracking, all of which are designed to keep you mentally strong and motivated. With 20 levels of resistance aligned with a high speed high inertia perimeter weighted flywheel every workout typically goes smooth and stays quiet. Like many other Recumbent bikes, the Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike, has both pros and cons. Best place to look for pricing is here.

Pros

• Simple instructions and easily understandable parts layout makes assemble quick and simple
• Integrated grip heart rate for ease of use with heart rate programs and a 3-speed fan to keep you cool and steady throughout your workout
• Light body shape, making it easily accessible and preserves space with a small frame
• Lightweight and transportable wheels allow for easy travel.
• You can set a time goal, a calorie goal, or a distance goal, along with large and high performance speakers.

Cons

• The seat bottom is very shallow and the entire seat, top and bottom, is made of hard plastic
• The bike moves back and forth when exercising intensely or in the upper
• Power cord placement, the power adapter is located in the front of the bike, making it difficult to work around it
• unnaturally wide stance in order to avoid hitting them
• Typically, the bike is only large enough for a height up to 6’2

Frequently Asked Questions about Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Schwinn 230 recumbent bike is a fantastic bike that can easily supply a daily workout. Though there are both pros and cons, the bike is amazing in a whole. The simplicity of the assembly of the bike provides a great first impression. The ability to set a time goal, a calorie goal, and a distance goal, along with large and high-performance speakers provides the ability to complete your weight loss and fitness goal with a smile on your face. Best place to look for pricing is here.

Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike

The Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike is an enticing bike that outstands the borders of modern day performance. The bike is designed to help you stay healthy and shed pounds at the same time. Within the bike there is 29 programs, 4 user settings and goal tracking, all of which help you stay motivated and on top of your goals. The dual track two LCD window system allows you to track up to 13 different unique display feedbacks and makes exercising unbelievably easy. However, like any other Recumbent Bike, there are pros and cons. Best place to look for pricing is here.

Pros

• Assembly is simple and easy with an easy to read instruction guide and understandable parts.
• Very nearly silent when on and it runs smoothly
• Comfortable and easily adjustable seat for all body types.
• Base adjusts itself when on uneven floors and high quality large speakers work very well
• Can mount Ipad and Amazon Kindle Fire to bike without accesories

Cons

• Shakes side to side when pedalling
• Display panel is VERY bright and not adjustable
• Barely large enough to withstand the height of 5’4
• Minimum weight capacity is 250 pounds
• Flywheel typically goes out when used under high stress situations.

FAQ’s

Question: What is the footprint on the floor
Answer: The footprint on the floor is approximately 60″x 24″
Question: Is the bike belt driven?
Answer: It does actually have a belt. The belt wraps around a large plastic pulley/flywheel which the pedals are attached to. From there it wraps around another pulley and to the Eddy Current Resistor and the heavier flywheel (which is part of the ECR). It is a good quality belt and will last for as long as the bike does.
Question: I’d like to be able to read while using this. Is there a place where I could set my Kindle and reach it easily to turn the pages?
Answer: Yes. You can put it where the display is. There is a slot that will hold it. You can also plug it into the bicycle for charging (via a USB port) and if you listen to music, you can output the music through the speakers on the control panel of the bicycle.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike is most likely one of the best bikes that you could receive with such high performance and elegant behaviors. With the easy assembly, comfortable and adjustable seats, and nearly silent actions, it enhances your performance on multiple levels and allows your to excel in both weight loss goals and fitness goals. Best place to look for pricing is here.

Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike

The Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike offers amazing abilities with a high performance and tolerance level. It is an foldable recumbent exercise bike with quiet transmission device which essentially allows you to conserve space and work quietly whenever you want to. The bike has a Semi-recumbent design for easy entry and exit and comes with a large and comfortable seat and backrest. Within the bike there is an easy-to-read LCD display tracks your distance pedalled, calories burned, time pedalling, speed pedalling, and heart rate. Best place to look for pricing is here.

Pros

• Very easy to get off and on the bike, providing a more effective and enjoyable workout experience
• Very easy to get off and on the bike, providing a more efficient and easy workout sessions.
• Folds to at least ½ the size for storage, so it’s differently compactable and you’re able t move it with provided transportation wheels.
• Hand pulse sensors on the handle bars for targeting your heart rate zone.
• It is also designed to support up to a weight capacity of 300 pounds.

Cons

• When it is folded up, it can be a fiddly and annoying to move from place to place.
• The seat is flat, providing no support when pedaling and in the end leaving the same numbness that actual bikes leave
• It’s a recumbent bike that makes you sit at a 90 degree angle
• There’s no backlighting on the screen
• Can only support a height up to 5’11

FAQ’S

Question: Do you need to have the mat under it? We have hardwood floors.
Answer: I would if I were you. It sits on hard plastic cylinders on each of the four corners with two of the cylinders having rolling wheels either on the front or back (depending on how you assemble the bike). It sits stable while being pedaled, but when moving it, I think it could potentially cause scratching to the floor.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike is most likely one of the best recumbent bikes that you can have. It folds up for easy storage, can support 300 pounds, and tracks your distance pedaled, calories burned, time pedaling, speed pedaling, and heart rate. It will enhance your performance in both mental and physical fitness. Best place to look for pricing is here.

Velocity Exercise CHB-R2101 Recumbent Exercise Bike

The Velocity Exercise CHB-R2101 Recumbent Exercise Bike is an amazing bike with high performance and easy accessibility. The bike includes many fantastic features, such as built in transport wheels allows for easy transportation and storage. There is a large console display that tracks time spent exercising on the bike, pedaling speed, ODO, distance travelled, calories burned and hand pulse. It is equipped with padded foot pedals. Within the bike there is a two way flywheel for a comfortable and smooth ride, and also eight levels of constant preset resistance. Best place to look for pricing is here.

Pros:

• The bike is sturdy and does not rock back and forth
• A screw type tensioner for variable resistance in pedaling and a comfortable and adjustable seat
• Large display area with speed, calories, distance, and hand pulse
• The height capacity is 6’6

Cons:

• The assembly is more difficult than needed.
• Peddling is not smooth, has a tendency to feel as though it is cracking
• Seat is too high
• The bike is not magnetic, therefore making it louder than needed
• Weight on the instructions guide is not accurate, therefore causing damage to the bike

FAQ’S

Question: will this bike fit someone who is 6’4″ tall?
Answer: It should, the bottom part slides out and is adjustable to be closer or farther from the pedals. I’m 5’9” and my husband is about 6′ and we don’t have it out nearly as far as it could go.
Question: What does bike weigh?
Answer: For moving it around in a room, it rolls on wheels like a wheelbarrow. So that way, you only feel maybe 15-20 pounds of perceived weight. However, if you needed to pick it up and put it on a shelf or something, the actual weight is probably like 50 pounds or so. Once it is assembled, I wouldn’t want to try to do more than roll it around. Besides the real weight when you have to pick it up entirely, it would be awkward for one person because of its size and shape
Question: What is the weight limitation? 250 pounds?
Answer: It is extremely strong and should easily be safe and suitable for a person weighing 300 pounds. It is made out of steel!

Conclusion

So to summarize, the is one neat exercise bike. It has everything you expect it should have and functions great! The built in transportation wheels in a nice little feature, it makes moving this exercise bike around just that bit easier. Best place to look for pricing is here.

Stamina 4825 Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike

The Stamina Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike is a fantastic bike with steady and high performance. It is a fantastic recumbent stationary bike for effective low-impact aerobic exercises in your home. The smooth magnetic resistance with dial tension control to set workout intensity between easy and high works throughout the day with a limited amount of issues. Like most recumbent exercise bikes, the Stamina 4825 Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike, has both pros and cons. Best place to look for pricing is here.

Pros

• Wheels for easy transport throughout the location in which it is being used
• Electronic monitor displays workout time, pedaling speed, pedaling distance, and calories burned
• Magnetic resistance system offers a smooth and quiet workout
• Comfortable seat with nice padding and a wide seat area
• Easily assembled with detailed instructions.

Cons

• You can only use one cycle function at a time (distance, calories, time, etc.)
• Electronic display does not have a bright backlit, making it hard to see the display in dim lighting
• Bike is unstable and typically rocks back and forth during intense workouts
• Lacks a headrest, which would help with the overall comfort of the workout
• Has difficulty transitioning between the different exercise intensitys

Question: Is this bike strong enough for a 450 lb. person?
Answer: Although it is quite a sturdy piece of equipment, I don’t think I would recommend it. The seat is also smaller than you would imagine because of where the handles are positioned.
Question: How far up is the screen and the seat from the floor?
Answer: Screen is 23″ off the ground to the middle of the screen and the seat is 16″ to where you actually sit ontop of the seat. It is 15″ to the underside of the seat.
Question: Can a 60 year old woman move this around and fold it up?
Answer: The bike does not fold up or slide under the bed or anything like that. After assembly, it’s one piece and very sturdy. It has wheels on the front and leveling wheels on the back. My wife, just a few years younger than you, has no problem lifting the maching by the seat or arms and wheeling it into place on medium-pile carpeting. Hope this helps!

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Stamina 4825 Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike is a great bike with high performance levels. Though there are some cons, there are more positive pros. The Stamina 4825 Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike is guaranteed to give you high quality results with its simple mechanics and easy assemble. Best place to look for pricing is here.

Phoenix 99608 Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike

The Phoenix 99608 Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike is an easy to run and high performance bike. The bike itself has many unique and fantastic features, such as the Recumbent exercise bike with ultra-quiet magnetic resistance system. The easy-to-read monitor which comes wit the bike can and will measure time spent on the bike, pedaling speed, pedaling distance, and calories burned. There are nice seats, which are wide and comfortable with soft padding. The back of the bike has great lumbar and lower back support. Best place to look for pricing is here.

Pros

• Tough tubular steel frame
• 8 resistance levels with adjustment dial; comfortable easy acces sides.
• Frame adjusts to different lengths to accommodate various user heights
• During workout bike stays quiet

Cons

• Not very appropriate for shorter people
• The pedal movement isn’t as fluid as the movement of other bikes and as advertised
• The support bolt in the center of the bike is not long enough to provide proper support
• Frame moves back and forth when exercising
• Pedals are placed too close to the handles, making it uncomfortable when pedaling

FAQ’s

Question: How high is the seat from the floor? My Physical Therapist says I need one that is fairly high from the ground
Answer: It’s seventeen inches off of the ground, give or take a quarter of an inch depending on how much you extend the seat from the pedals
Question: What type of batteries are needed?
Answer: only a battery for the mileage, calorie counter etc…I think its a AA but seriously, it has lasted for 2 years…one battery.

conclusion

In conclusion, the Phoenix 99608 Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike, may have some cons, but it is actually a well built and supportive bike. It provides multiple aspects to help you achieve your goal of both weight loss and general fitness and health. Best place to look for pricing is here.

Stamina 1350 Magnetic Resistance Recumbent Bike

The Stamina 1350 Magnetic Resistance Recumbent Bike is a high performance and simple bike. Throughout the bike there are multiple fantastic features that enhance the performance and overall appeal. It includes an adjustable heavy-weighted flywheel resistance and belt drive train, so the bike pedals smoothly at any resistance level. The large easy-to-read monitor with scan keeps you motivated during your workout by showing you your distance, speed, time, and calories burned with one-button control. The oversized foot pedals hold your feet in place quite firmly, and the seat is well comfortably padded and adjusts to fit most any size of person. Like every recumbent bike, it has both pros and cons. Best place to look for pricing is here.

Pros

• Comfortable, padded upholstered vinyl seat with multiple seat positions and handrails
• Oversized, weighted pedals
• Maximum weight capacity is 250 pounds
• Levelling stabilizer caps
• Super quiet, allowing you to work out in a peaceful environment

Cons

• No backlit on the monitor, making it hard to see in dim lighting
• No headrest, which because of the design of the bike, it is needed for a comfortable experience
• Not recommended for people taller than 6’4
• Petals are short, making slightly difficult when pedalling fast or steadily
• Slightly unstable, rocks back and forth when working out

FAQ’s

Question: I am 5’4″. Is this going to be a comfortable experience?
Answer: I am 5’8″ and there is still adjustment to have the seat closer to the pedals. But even if you run out of pre-drilled settings it would not be difficult to add a custom setting just for yourself. Although it would be nice if the seat had a little more padding
Question: How many levels of resistance?
Answer: The levels are not marked though. I’ve twisted the handle and it seems quite sensitive so I’d say that there would be that many levels.
Question: Is it good for short people, and does it also go backwards?
Answer: I’m 5’2″ and don’t have a problem with the pedals but have a problem with the seat. It is too long and the back of my thighs hit it as I pedal. Don’t know if this is due to my height though. Yes, it does go backwards and the monitor tracks it as well.
Question: Do the foot pedals have straps to keep the feet secure?
Answer: The Stamina Magnetic Recumbent 1350 Bike gives you a great cardio workout in the convenience of your own home. The workout is quiet and very smooth so you could watch television or listen to music while you work out. The Magnetic Recumbent 1350 Bike offers the adjustable, heavy-weighted, flywheel resistance and belt drive train, so your pedals are easily resistance at any level. The Stamina Recumbent Bike isn’t equipped with pedal straps, but the oversized foot pedals hold your feet securely as you pedal.
Question: does it avoid straining abdominal muscles?
Answer: Yes, there is absolutely no strain on abdominal muscles. It is mostly for your legs, cardio vascular and perhaps the back somewhat.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Stamina 1350 Magnetic Resistance Recumbent Bike is a high performing bike with very little cons. From the comfortable and large seats to the easy-read- monitor display, this bike truly is one of the best bikes you could have. Its simple assembly generates a fantastic first impression along with the sleek design that is observed when very first seen. Best place to look for pricing is here.

Exerpeutic 2000 High Capacity Programmable Magnetic Recumbent Bike

The last but definitely not the least one in our list is the Exerpeutic 2000 which is a high capacity programmable magnetic recumbent bike. Obviously, you could have read the headline and easily understood that. What is it actually about?
Well, the features will tell you that the first thing to be happy about is the air soft sit. You will actually feel that you are sitting in somewhere very comfortable when you are sitting in Exerpeutic. It is super easy to be in and therefore, the method of exercising becomes a lot easier. No matter what people say, you as an individual know that exercising is tough and you got to have some level of comfort to get through with it.
There are good enough features when it comes to this Magnetic recumbent bike. The hand pulse heart rate monitor is a great advantage to have as it tells you your current speed and the desired speed too. Let’s have a look at the pros and the cons now! Best place to look for pricing is here.

Pros

• Great tension control system
• 8 different levels for different exercise types
• 6 pre set workout programs which take care of everything
• A hand pulse monitor too so that you can stay at your preferred heart rate while exercising

Cons

• A bit costly to go for
• The weight capacity is up to 300lbs only

FAQ’s

Question: I am 5’4″. Is this going to be a comfortable experience?
Answer: I am 5’8″ and there is still adjustment to have the seat closer to the pedals. But even if you run out of pre-drilled settings it would not be difficult to add a custom setting just for yourself. Although it would be nice if the seat had a little more padding
Question: How many levels of resistance?
Answer: The levels are not marked though. I’ve twisted the handle and it seems quite sensitive so I’d say that there would be that many levels.
Question: Is it good for short people, and does it also go backwards?
Answer: I’m 5’2″ and don’t have a problem with the pedals but have a problem with the seat. It is too long and the back of my thighs hit it as I pedal. Don’t know if this is due to my height though. Yes, it does go backwards and the monitor tracks it as well.
Question: Do the foot pedals have straps to keep the feet secure?
Answer: The Stamina Magnetic Recumbent 1350 Bike gives you a great cardio workout in the convenience of your own home. The workout is quiet and very smooth so you could watch television or listen to music while you work out. The Magnetic Recumbent 1350 Bike offers the adjustable, heavy-weighted, flywheel resistance and belt drive train, so your pedals are easily resistance at any level. The Stamina Recumbent Bike isn’t equipped with pedal straps, but the oversized foot pedals hold your feet securely as you pedal.
Question: does it avoid straining abdominal muscles?
Answer: Yes, there is absolutely no strain on abdominal muscles. It is mostly for your legs, cardio vascular and perhaps the back somewhat.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Stamina 1350 Magnetic Resistance Recumbent Bike is a high performing bike with very little cons. From the comfortable and large seats to the easy-read- monitor display, this bike truly is one of the best bikes you could have. Its simple assembly generates a fantastic first impression along with the sleek design that is observed when very first seen. Best place to look for pricing is here.

Recumbent Bike Positives and negatives

The argument on which frame and style of bikes is better than which has been a hot topic for quite some time now. I think now’s the time to put that good old question to rest. Here we’ll be going over some advantages and disadvantages the recumbent bikes.

Advantages of a recumbent bike

Easy on the back

SO we’re going to start off by stating the advantages of a recumbent bike. Due to the way it’s designed, your back will not be stressed at all, it’s almost like lying in a bed. The recumbent bike is extremely comfortable when compared to the upright exercise bike which has you using your back and more effort. This means you’ll find yourself exercising longer with a joyful experience.

Bigger and more comfortable seat.

Comfort is one of the most visible characteristics of this bike. You do not have to ride one to notice its big comfortable seat. This is why it is more common for older people to ride them. Manufacturers spend a lot of time designing these ergonomic bike seats. You feel relaxed in certain areas of your back. The pressure gets dispersed to your gluteus lower back reaching to your shoulders. With the upright bike it is not uncommon to feel tiredness and to get severe injuries on your shoulders, neck, bows and knees. Taking into consideration that you have strong lungs you might go on for hours.

Easier on the wallet

Buying a recumbent exercise bike is a lot lighter on the wallet when compared to buying a real bike. Weather that be a recumbent or diamond frame bike, it is definitely a lot cheaper! It will stimulate riding a bike and you’ll lose the same, if not more weight.

Progress tracking

Some recumbent exercise bikes are implemented with technology than can track progress with how much calories you’ve burned on a daily or monthly basis. This is a really nice feature for those who want to keep track of such information.

Exercise at the comfort of your own home

If you’re somebody that prefers to exercise inside and out of view, then this is something that will appeal to you. I myself wouldn’t go out of my way to ride a real recumbent bike outdoors, but I do see myself riding one of these mainly due to the fact that I don’t have others watching me.

Losing weight without effort

It doesn’t mean that if you are seated on a firm back everything is easier. In fact you might as well lose weight with a recumbent bike the same way you do with a normal one. Some areas of your body will might go under heavy stress without you even knowing. For example: You will strengthen a lot your abs and lower body areas. Your knees will push even harder than the upright to reach the desired speed. Everyone likes to lose some belly fat once in a while. This is due to the fact that you have to cycle and keep it balanced and stay on a 100 degrees seat at the same time.

Disadvantages to a Recumbent Bike

The Price Point

As we’ve already discussed earlier in the article, a recumbent bike is generally more expensive to buy. Weather that be a cheap, average, or even a high end bike, they are usually costlier and harder on the wallet. Is it worth it though? That entirely depends on you.

Weight

Yes, it is true a bent (recumbent) weighs way more than a regular one. It can make you think twice before purchasing it if you live on the 10th floor and you will have to carry it up and down the stairs. Even though this is seen as a major disadvantage by the experts I see it as a sign of stability while riding. It is like riding a motorcycle without an engine. In this case your legs are the engine.

The Restriction

Though some people do prefer exercising at the comfort of their own home, some people like to get outside and enjoy the sunlight. With a stationary bike like this, there is no option to just pick it up and take it outside. It has one purpose.

Takes up quite a lot of space

Whilst it’s true some are bigger than others, an average sized recumbent exercise bike can and will take up a lot of room in your home. You can’t just purchase one and just put it somewhere, you need to think about the space you’ll need before purchasing one. People usually have these in their garage, but if your home is big enough then this isn’t something you need to worry too much about.

Can get repetitive

Whilst exercise bikes can be fun for a little while, overtime they can get fairly boring and tiresome. With a real recumbent bike, you can ride out in the fresh air with different sceneries and places to go, whilst with the recumbent exercise bike you’re stuck in one room with very little to keep you occupied. This can easy be compared to treadmills, they simulate walking and running, but they aren’t exactly a blast.

Recumbent bike variations

Recumbent bikes are commonly divided into two categories. Depending on where the front wheel is situated in relation with the rest of the bike body. There are short wheel based and long wheel based bikes.
Short wheel based bikes
The short wheel based bikes have the front wheel located near right about the pilots knees. And the riding cranks are way out in front. Usually this type is more difficult to handle because it can go on an insane speed. This is something that you do not want to try in the first five minutes of riding.

Long wheel based bikes

This type is more common among novice recumbent riders. It has the front wheel situated in front of the bike. Just like a normal bicycle. These bikes tend to be lower than the short wheeled. You will find yourself riding almost one foot above the ground. But the advantage is that what you lose in speed it will be gained in comfort. This gives the rider a very smooth ride and broader turning radiuses.

Two different steering types

There are two different kind of steering arrangements of the bents.
Under the seat steering is the first one. This kind of arrangement is the most difficult to handle. The handlebars are situated right at the edge of the seat. They are this way only at the long wheel based bikes because there is no space ate the short wheel ones to put them. You have to steer and brake with your arms closed. But, if you want speed this is the right kind.
Above the seat steering is the second and most common type for beginners. The handlebars are situated way up above in front of your chest. There is a minor visibility in front of you compared to the first type. But it is easier to handle and keep in balance. If you plan to go slow and far the second type is for you.

Where can I find a new one?

As I have mentioned previously these kind of bicycles are not very welcome on the market. Finding the right one might be a bit of a challenge. Some of the most famous recumbent bike manufacturers have closed their companies for good due to the lack of demand. But, no worries below I have provided some of the top companies that still produce them. These are the best of the best:

• Azub Bike is a Czech Republic bike manufacturer company with dealers Czech Republic, Slovakia, Germany, Nederland, Belgium, France, Finland, and Australia. It is possible to order directly from their site. But I would not recommend it because you will have to pay high shipping tariffs.
• Bachetta Recumbent Bikes is a well-known producer. Its models are some of the most common that you see in the US. Even though its parts are produced overseas (like they always do). It does not have the choice of color which can be a disturbing issue for some. It sells through dealers in St Petersburg. In my opinion, I would recommend the Carbon Aero type which has a nice appeal.
• Carbon Recumbent is a well-known company situated in Europe, in Hungary precisely. But they export their products around the world. They have really unique bike parts all made out of carbon fiber. Very lightweight and durable. Bike orders can be very specific choosing from a catalog the desired parts. Recently, they have introduced a new model called the rain rider. It is a removable fairing that will keep you dry and let you enjoy the afternoon cycling under the rain.
• Easy Racers LWB Bicycles has been on the market for a very long time now (10 years). Producing racing recumbent bikes which deliver speed and stability. And it has accumulated a very loyal crowd of consumers. If you are new and obviously not familiar with a recumbent bike this is just the right one for you.

Conclusion

So now that we’ve come to the end of the article, now comes the time to summarize everything I have said into simplistic terms. Everybody has their preferences when it comes down to anything, whether that be regular bikes, products, games, etc. We all like different things. Even after taking what we said into consideration before buying research is key. You need to make sure what you’re buying is going to be that special bike you’ve been looking for, look online or even on amazon for other customer reviews, usually bad reviewed products aren’t worth the time of day, so it’s highly recommended.

One big reason that why you should go for a recumbent exercise bike is because they are enjoyable. Do you know the reason why most people do not exercise after a given period of time? We are sure you have seen people who bought an exercise machine with a ton of enthusiasm but couldn’t continue because he lost interest. The reason is because these exercise machines are not fun enough to work on and therefore, a lot of people lose interest only after a few days of using these.

A recumbent bike does not have that problem as it is fun and you do not get super exhausted while you are using it. These two are the most important requirements that you need while going for an exercise machine. The Recumbent bike has both of the features and that is one big reason that why a recumbent bike is such a great success in a short period of time. Hopefully, you will enjoy the fun too!