An indoor group cycle and stationary bike share many similarities -- both provide a good lower-body workout for the rider, both are upright exercise bikes and both are used indoors. However, several differences are evident as well.
Resistance
Indoor group cycles feature an adjustable tension knob that allows the rider to set the resistance to his desired intensity, whereas stationary bikes typically feature built-in programs that can automatically adjust tension to mimic diverse terrain.
Uses
Stationary bikes are typically designed for those who are not specialized cyclists. They are usually used in home gyms and fitness facilities whereas indoor cycles are generally used in home gyms by specialized cyclists who can't train outdoors, or they're used at fitness facilities in cycling classes.
Features
Stationary bikes typically contain more features than an indoor cycle, such as LED displays showing calories burned, speed and distance; heart-rate monitors; and automatically adjusted tension control. While some indoor group cycles do contain a display screen, giving riders the ability to watch training programs, download workouts, record sessions and access interactive maps, most do not include such high-tech features.
Design
An indoor group cycle is designed so simulate a road bike. Because of this, the bike features adjustable seats and handlebars to allow the rider to customize the position of these two parts both horizontally and vertically to simulate riding a road bike. Stationary bikes, on the other hand, have wider, more comfortable, seats that can typically only be moved forward and back. The rider of a stationary bike is more upright, and sometimes the seats of stationary bikes recline.
Riding Techniques
Riders of stationary bikes stay in the seat during their workout, whereas indoor group cycles are designed of high quality steel so that a rider can stand up on the pedals out of the seat during intense stretches.
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