A stationary bike is a durable machine that has the capability of lasting longer than equipment like treadmills and elliptical trainers because it has fewer complicated mechanisms. Features contributing to an exercise bike's long life cycle include running on human power rather than electronics, and fewer moving parts.
Warranty
Judging by stationary bike warranties, most bikes are meant to last at least five years. Exercise bikes generally come with a warranty that includes maintenance on the frame up to five years or life, and maintenance on parts from 90 days to two years. Labor, which includes in-home repairs, can be covered anywhere from 60 days after purchase up to two years. A bike with the best warranty likely will be a top-tier, expensive model with multiple features. If you have a bike with an onboard electronic console, you can count on the bike lasting longer than the computer. Some higher-end stationary bike manufacturers sell consoles separately, which means if your console ever breaks, you can replace the electronics without having to purchase a new bike.
Weight Capacity
Weight capacity on an exercise bike refers to the amount of weight your bike is capable of supporting. Commercial stationary bikes, such as those you find in a gym, often have high weight limits between 400 and 500 pounds to accommodate constant usage and heavy exercisers. Home bikes can have weight limits ranging from 275 to 350 pounds. It's advisable to buy a stationary bike with a high weight capacity for an active family, or buy a bike with a weight capacity that can support the heaviest person in the home. A bike with a low weight limit is not as durable as one with a higher weight capacity. Violating an exercise machine's weight capacity puts the equipment at risk of breaking. The frame and moving parts are only designed to support a specific amount of weight.
Recalls
Manufacturer errors and defective designs can cause some stationary bikes to be recalled, making the life cycle significantly shorter. In 2009, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recalled roughly 2,000 bikes because of a loose handle pin, which could have led to a rider falling off the bike. In 2008, about 20,000 exercise bikes made by a different company were recalled for having a faulty alloy crank that posed a risk for causing lacerations.
Used Bikes
Estimating the life cycle of a used exercise bike is tricky. Buying any kind of secondhand exercise equipment is risky, especially equipment with an expired warranty. There's no way to know if the previous owners violated the weight limit, which stresses the bike and can damage the frame and parts. If possible, ride a used stationary bike before buying it. The bike should run smoothly and quietly. Squeaking could mean the bike needs lubrication, a rattling noise is indicative of loose parts and a crunching or grinding sound could point to worn crank bearings, which requires replacement parts. Avoid buying a bike with rust, dents and other signs of damage. Stick with top-quality brands and manufacturers that are still in business, in case you need replacement parts.
References
- Velo News; Saris Recalls Some Stationary Bike Trainers; Jan. 22, 2009
- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission; Reebok International Ltd. Recalls Exercise Cycles Due to Laceration Hazard; July 24, 2008
- Jim Langley: Bicycle Repair: Keep it Quiet
- SportsSmith: Loud Noise From Exercise Bike During Exercise
