Exercise bikes are an excellent addition to your fitness routine. They allow you to get a high-quality workout without the impact and injuries of an activity like running. There are two main types of exercise bikes; upright and recumbent. An upright bike looks similar to a regular road bike. A recumbent bike allows you to lean into the backrest and is beneficial for people with back problems. According to Fitness-events.com, quality, ease of use, durability, reputation, features, heart-rate monitors, warranty and value all determine what makes one bike better than another.
Tunturi f80 Ergometer
ExerciseEquipmentExpert.com gives the Tunturi f80 Ergometer Upright Bike top marks for being equipped with features and controls above the rest of the field. After the rideability and durability of the bike, the website’s favorite feature is the f80’s display console, which is available in either a base-level or high-end model. The base-level is a 3.8” LCD T-Ride display that simulates an outdoor experience with landscapes and slope angles that guide your training program. It also tracks time, speed, distance, heart-rate, energy consumption and effort. The higher-end model is a 7” LCD T-Road display that the website calls “the ultimate indoor training experience"; it displays the program as a perfectly synchronized virtual outdoor video stream that is linked to your movement. The ergometer display provides you with feedback and data while you exercise, so you know exactly how effective your workout will be.
Nautilus NR 2000
In the recumbent bike category, ExerciseEquipmentExpert.com favors the Nautilus NR 2000. Special effects include heart-rate controlled workouts, a balanced flywheel, a V-Force drive system and magnetic resistance, self-leveling foot pedals and LED HD console. Nautilus backs up its product with extended warranties on the frame, parts and service.
Schwinn 230
Those looking for a quality, top brand product at an affordable price will enjoy the Schwinn 230, which ConsumerSearch.com rated as its favorite recumbent exercise bike for its good value and sturdy frame. The 230 is reported to be quiet and sturdy and it can accommodate users that weigh up to 300 pounds. There are plenty of bells and whistles, including 16 resistance levels, six preset programs and 10 profile courses. There is an adjustable LCD viewing console, though consumers did complain that the console was not lit well enough for their liking. Other pluses include Schwinn Bio-Fit pedals, heart-rate grips integrated into the handle bars, a reading rack and a water bottle holder.
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