Schwinn is one of the top-selling brands of exercise bikes garnering the most favorable reviews from consumers for both upright and recumbent models. Try before you buy to ensure a good fit and comfortable ride. Don't purchase extended warranties, advises Consumer Reports since "Survey data on the probability of failure and repair costs showed that extended warranties are probably not a good deal."
Schwinn 240 Recumbent Bike
The Schwinn 240 Recumbent exercise bike is ergonomically designed to easily get on and off. Features include 10 settings for the padded seat, a backlit LCD console which displays time, RPM, pulse and more; 16 levels of resistance, as well as 18 programs to continually provide a challenging workout.
Schwinn 220 Recumbent Bike
Consumers who purchased this product consistently rate this bike as comfortable, simple to set-up, adjust and use. It was also rated highly on structural stability and quiet and smooth operation. Similar to the 240 version, this bike only has 12 preset workout programs.
Schwinn Active Series 20 Recumbent
A top seller and 5-star rated exercise bike on Amazon.com and online retailer Exercise Bikes Direct, the Schwinn Active Series 20 Recumbent bike "has a belt drive system that ensures quiet operation and a smooth ride. It features 11 preset workout programs and 8 levels of resistance for a wide variety of workout options. The adjustable seat accommodates users of all body sizes and leg lengths, while the grip heart rate and LCD display allow you to monitor your progress."
Stamina InTone Folding Recumbent Bike
Over 100 positive customer reviews recommend this exercise bike as easy to setup and use. The Stamina InTone Folding Recumbent Bike measures expanded 40 inches by 25 inches easily fitting into a small space. This less-expensive model has a small LCD display and tension control.
Nautilus R514 Recumbent
Nautilus, long a commercial retailer of exercise equipment introduced its residential line of exercise bikes in 2009. Nautilus backs up this product with a 10-year warranty on the frame, and two-year warranty on parts. Integrated heartrate monitor, large display screen and multi-adjustable seat with 17 workout programs make this bike suitable for most body types and fitness levels.
Stamina 15-0120 InStride Cycle XL
Priced under $50 as of September 2010, this seatless exercise cycle measures 19 inches x 12.25 inches x 15.25 inches and comes with a electric timer. Great for under-the-desk exercising at the office and for those who are recovering from an injury. This product is not recommended for those who are seeking a moderate-to-high intensity workout. Over 100 Amazon customers who purchased the InStride gave it a 4- or 5-star rating.
Confidence Fitness Space Saving X Bike
The Confidence Fitness Space Saving X Bike folds up for easy storage. Weighing 50 lbs., this upright exercise bike is consistently rated as quiet and sturdy. Customers who purchased this product did complain about the hard seat, but were overall satisfied with the workout they got on the back on the 10 levels of resistance.
Schwinn Airdyne Upright Exercise Bike
This sturdy exercise bike can support up to 300 lbs. A popular feature is the "dual-action design" which moves the arms and legs together. The fan wheel provides air resistance so the harder you pedal the more resistance you generate along with a cooling breeze. Amazon product description highlights "an extra-quiet chain drive system; built-in heart rate monitoring; an LCD display; an anatomically correct seat with extra padding; and the following warranties: 30 years on the frame, three years on parts and electronics, and one year on labor and wear items."
Schwinn 230 Recumbent Exercise Bike
Less than $500, this exercise bike is easy to assemble and though it doesn't have many of the frills of the pricier Schwinn models, still customers rated this product highly. This bike comes with transport wheels, large display monitor and six preset programs with 16 resistance levels.
ProForm 290SPX Indoor Exercise Bike
The ProForm 290SPX Indoor Exercise Bike is similar to the indoor cycles available at many commercial gyms. Priced under $300 as of September 2010, customers rated this product as a good buy for the money. The bike supports up to 250 lbs. and features a toe-cage for stability and safety when pedaling.
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