A home exercise bike makes it easy to work out, no matter what the weather. You can also avoid the hassle of driving to the gym and waiting for the equipment you want. When choosing an exercise bike, remember that comfort is crucial, say the experts at Consumer Reports: if the bike isn't well suited to you, you won't use it.
Step 1
Determine your budget. Exercisebikereview.com recommends a budget of $500 to $1,000 for a good-quality bike; less than $500 will buy an average-quality bike, while $1,000 or more will buy a top-of-the-line bike with lots of special features.
Step 2
Determine where you will use the bike. Most exercise bikes have a relatively small footprint, but remember you will need room to get on and off the bike; if you choose a dual-action bike, you will also need enough room for the handlebars to move back and forth. If your space is small, you will probably want to choose a bike that folds for storage.
Step 3
Weigh yourself. Some bikes have weight limits or recommended weight ranges.
Step 4
Determine which features you consider essential. Be honest with yourself: if a cup holder or a reading stand is a big deal to you, choose a bike that has one or to which one can be easily attached.
Step 5
Learn your exercise bike options: upright, semi-recumbent, recumbent or dual action. Upright bikes allow you to sit upright with the pedals below the seat; this style is most like a regular bicycle. A recumbent bike provides more back support and the pedals are in front of you; you may get a fuller range of motion in your legs and hips with a recumbent bike. A semi-recumbent bike has the seat and pedals arranged somewhere between the way they are on an upright and on a semi-recumbent bike. A dual-action bike allows you to work your arms while you are pedaling.
Step 6
Try a variety of bikes that meet your requirements. Make sure the bike fully adjusts to your weight and height. Look for easy-to-read displays that provide all the information you consider essential, such as time elapsed or speed. Look for ease in varying the resistance and intensity of the workout. Look for the features you consider essential. Notice how much noise the bike makes to make sure you'll be able to read or watch television, for example, if these are things you plan on doing regularly while exercising.
Step 7
Ride each bike you are considering. Ride long enough to see which one feels the most comfortable and seems the most enjoyable to use.
Tips and Warnings
- A heart rate monitor that attaches to you rather than one you have to hold is a better choice for use with an exercise bike. Most bikes come with a two- to three-year warranty for major moving parts and one year for labor; Consumer Reports says extended warranties probably aren't necessary. Purchasing a used exercise bike in good working condition may allow you to buy a better bike for less money.
- Use appropriate caution with any exercise machinery. Keep children away from exercise machinery, especially when it is in use.
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