Investing in a home exercise bike is a smart choice for your health. You won't have to worry about rushing to the gym or waiting for equipment. It's fitness on your schedule. However, finding the right bike that fits your fitness goals and your budget can be challenging with so many options.
To make it easier, we researched the features, pros, and cons of the best home exercise bikes, looking at factors like price, durability, and user experience. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or want to add more exercise to your day, you'll find a bike in our list for your needs.
Our Top Picks
If you're pressed for time or looking for a quick buy, here are our top 3 picks:
NordicTrack Commercial S22i
Best overall home exercise bike with premium features, comfort-enhancing adjustability, and unrivalled workout experience.
Exer-90H Exercise Bike
Best robust and ergonomic air-resistance exercise bike for individuals seeking challenging and adaptable workouts.
XTERRA Fitness FB350 Bike
Best treadmill for compact living spaces and quiet operation, It's also ideal if you prioritise comfort during workouts.
Top 8 Exercise Bikes for Aussies
Our reviews aim to provide all the essential information about Australia's top eight home exercise bikes. We discuss each product in-depth to give you a comprehensive understanding of its pros and cons.
1. NordicTrack Commercial S22i Studio Cycle
Best Commercial-Quality Exercise Bike in Australia
Resistance: 24 levels
Screen: Digital monitor
Warranty: 10 years (frame), 2 years (parts)
Let's kick off our list with a bang - the remarkable NordicTrack Commercial S22i Studio Cycle, a superbly crafted fitness technology that edges out the Peloton for overall quality. Renowned for its superior build and premium features, this exercise bike will surely elevate your fitness journey.
Boasting a whisper-quiet magnetic resistance system, this machine lets you focus entirely on your ride without the irritating noise often associated with workout equipment. This means even if you're working out early in the morning or late at night, you won't disturb others in your household.
The type of resistance system an exercise bike uses can greatly impact your workout experience. Magnetic resistance systems are typically quieter and more smooth, whereas mechanical resistance systems can offer a realistic 'road feel'. Adjust the resistance levels according to your comfort and gradually increase to improve endurance and strength.
The S22i is also well-connected, being kitted out with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities. And did we mention the digital monitor? It’s a 22-inch (55.9-cm) touchscreen. The display screen runs on Android, giving you a smooth, responsive experience. Such connectivity features allow you to sync your workouts with your favourite fitness apps, keep tabs on your progress, and even compete with friends online.
But the bells and whistles don't stop there. With the ability to adjust inclines from -10% to a challenging 20%, you'll simulate real road cycling conditions, enhancing the overall workout intensity. You can easily simulate various outdoor terrains from your living room by toggling the incline levels. It's not just about increasing calorie burn; it's about enhancing your endurance, strengthening your lower body muscles, and adding a new dimension to your indoor cycling routine.
As a bonus, the bike comes bundled with a year's access to the extensive library of on-demand iFit classes. Better yet, it sports a 22-inch touchscreen that rotates, allowing you to easily transition from bike-based workouts to floor exercises. One of the exciting upgrades in the S22i compared to its predecessors is its sound system. It sports an improved 30-watt sound system, ensuring your workout soundtrack or instructor's voice is crystal clear.
In terms of comfort, the S22i doesn't disappoint. It boasts a cushioned seat and a multi-grip handlebar — both adjustable vertically and horizontally, enabling you to find the perfect fit for your ride. This level of customisation means that multiple users with varying body types can use the same machine comfortably. So whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a beginner on your fitness journey, the S22i adjusts to meet your unique comfort needs, making your workout experience all the more enjoyable and productive.
Pros
- Compact design saves space
- Affordable iFit subscription
- Customisable seat and handlebars
- Easy and hassle-free assembly
Cons
- Non-folding design requires dedicated space
- Higher price for premium features
So, What’s Our Verdict?
If you're serious about your fitness goals and are seeking an indoor cycling experience that closely mimics road cycling, the NordicTrack Commercial S22i Studio Cycle is well worth considering.
Its wide range of premium features, paired with comfort-enhancing adjustability, provides an unrivalled workout experience. Yes, it carries a higher price tag, but the value you get in return is substantial, along with high-quality construction, interactive workouts, and personalised comfort.
2. Peloton Indoor Exercise Bike
Best Exercise Bike For Online Classes
Screen: Integrated LCD
Warranty: 12-months
The Peloton Indoor Exercise Bike is a remarkable home gym equipment, sporting top-tier features and has firmly ensconced itself as a fan favourite amongst Aussie exercise enthusiasts. This bike offers a premium feel and uniquely blends style, comfort, and functionality, setting the stage for a thrilling at-home workout experience.
Imagine a fitness class right in the comfort of your home - that's what Peloton offers. It’s equipped with a front-facing HD touchscreen that streams on-demand live classes, bringing the energy and motivation of a gym right to your living room. Moreover, it provides an array of real-time metrics during your workout: heart rate, cadence, output, and resistance.
Powering this immersive fitness journey is Peloton’s hefty 15.86 kg flywheel, which, coupled with its 100 magnetic resistance levels, allows you to fine-tune your exercise regime. With a simple twist of the resistance knob, you can effortlessly shift from a leisurely cycle to a gruelling climb, keeping your workouts fresh and challenging.
As for the design, Peloton's indoor exercise bike is a blend of sturdy construction and aesthetic elegance. Its sleek design pairs well with any room decor, while the compact frame won't demand too much of your precious floor space. Despite the size, it comfortably supports a weight limit of 135 kg, ensuring it's suitable for most users.
Adjustability is a crucial aspect of any exercise bike. Fortunately, Peloton's indoor exercise bike comes with an easy adjustability feature - whether it's the seat height, handlebars, or screen, you can tweak them to your liking. However, bear in mind that the screen doesn't swivel side to side.
Peloton's superior experience comes with a price tag to match. The subscription fee, especially for the live classes, is also steep. I recommend it as a shared investment with others in your home.
Peloton allows you to sync with your heart rate monitor or Apple Watch. This integration will enable you to track and sync your workout metrics effortlessly, keeping you in sync with your fitness goals.
Pros
- Diverse fitness classes
- Syncs seamlessly with fitness trackers
- Sturdy construction ensures durability
- Compact design saves space
Cons
- Higher upfront cost
- Monthly subscription for live classes
- Limited screen adjustment
Our Verdict
Despite its premium price, the Peloton Indoor Exercise Bike brings the experience of a high-energy fitness class right into your living room. It's packed with features that ensure each ride is engaging, challenging, and enjoyable.
Whether you're an exercise rookie or a fitness veteran, the Peloton bike offers an experience worth every cent. So, are you ready to bring your fitness journey to the next level?
3. YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike
Best Value Exercise Bike
Screen: LCD monitor
Warranty: 6 months for frame and parts
The YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike punches well above its weight in terms of quality. The folks at YOSUDA don't skimp on standards or regulations, putting their exercise bike through stringent testing to ensure you're getting a safe and robust product.
Despite its simplistic appearance, the YOSUDA bike offers a sturdy, smooth ride like silk. It's all about function and practicality, ditching superfluous frills and focusing on what truly matters – a reliable and effective workout. Its LCD monitor keeps you updated on your progress, while the handy iPad mount offers entertainment or even a chance to squeeze in some work while you exercise.
One of the standout features of this bike is its adjustable nature. With a 2-way adjustable handlebar and a 4-way adjustable seat, it can cater to various body types and preferences. Add the cage pedals, which keep your feet secure even during a high-speed ride, and you've got a user-centric exercise bike.
For your safety, there's a resistance bar that can bring the flywheel to a swift halt when needed. Plus, the belt-driven system assures a ride that's both smoother and quieter, meaning you won't be disturbing others while getting your sweat on.
As for hydration, the machine has got you covered with a strategically placed bottle holder to replenish your fluids without skipping a beat. Simply put, YOSUDA's Indoor Cycling Bike is an affordable yet convenient addition to any home fitness regime.
Pros
- Easy assembly process
- Caged pedals for secure footing
- Adjustable seat and resistance
Cons
- Limited manoeuvrability
- Monitoring can be better
Who Should Buy It?
The YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike is perfect for beginners or those on a tight budget, offering a range of features that meet your basic workout needs without burning a hole in your pocket. Despite its low price point, the bike doesn't skimp on quality, offering a sturdy build and smooth riding experience.
The adjustable seat and resistance levels mean this bike can accommodate various body types and fitness levels. Likewise, if you value tranquillity, the quiet operation of this machine ensures your exercise routine won't disturb the peace in your home.
4. Exer-90H Exercise Bike
Best Air-Resistance Exercise Bike
Resistance: Air
Screen: LCD monitor
Warranty: 12 months
The Exer-90H is the top air-resistance exercise bike on the Australian market. Its 25" diameter steel fan as the flywheel delivers smooth and consistent resistance during workouts. Likewise, its dynamic rotating crank, forged from resilient steel, ensures an effective and efficient pedalling action, perfect for high-intensity workout sessions.
The bike uses a sophisticated Responsive Tension mechanism, which, interestingly, ratchets up the resistance as you push harder on the pedals. Therefore, you dictate the intensity of your workout, effectively tailoring the resistance level to your specific fitness objectives.
With a focus on high RPM and high torque pedalling, the Exer-90H is constructed to withstand the rigours of intense training sessions. It features a commercial-grade chain drivetrain for superior reliability and durability and has a tubular steel frame for stability and longevity. The bike is also backed by a 12-month parts replacement warranty.
The Exer-90H prides itself on its detailed computerised tracking system. Its large LCD provides exhaustive data about your workout, including speed, RPM, time, distance, calories, watts, and pulse. This lets you stay on top of your workout progress, monitoring your pace and fitness goals.
The position of the screen can impact your posture and comfort during workouts. Always make sure to adjust the screen tilt angle to avoid glare and ensure optimal viewing from your riding position.
Exer-90H has an adjustable seat and handlebars for a personalised and ergonomic riding experience. The extra-wide seat adjusts up and down, forward and reverse, to suit your preferred cycling position. Similarly, you can adjust the handlebars up and down for optimal comfort.
This home exercise bike makes a conscious effort to be user-friendly. With built-in transport wheels and floor levellers, this exercise bike can be easily moved and set up in any room of your home. The product comes partially assembled with assembly instructions to complete the process.
Pros
- Partial pre-assembly
- Versatile for all fitness levels
- Space-efficient design
Cons
- Not very portable
- Air resistance system is noisy
Should You Consider It?
The Exer-90H Exercise Bike is a versatile and durable choice for individuals seeking challenging and adaptable workouts.
Its dynamic resistance system allows you to control the intensity of your sessions, catering to a broad range of fitness levels. Built with robust materials and commercial-grade components, this bike is designed to withstand rigorous training and last over time.
It offers a convenient and comfortable workout experience with detailed tracking, ergonomic design, and a user-friendly setup. The Exer-90H combines durability, versatility, and convenience, making it an ideal choice for those who value quality and want to achieve their fitness goals at home.
5. JOROTO X2 Stationary Exercise Bike
Best for Silent Operation
Screen: Digital monitor
Warranty: 12 months
The JOROTO X2 Stationary Exercise Bike has sturdy construction and whisper-quiet operation. Its solid build of the AV-type frame and the 15.88kg chromed flywheel together provide a stable and smooth ride. We found that the bike's build offers safe riding across different surfaces, thanks to four horizontal adjustment knobs under the front and rear stabiliser.
The bike's magnetic resistance and belt drive system were excellent. Their noiseless operation makes JOROTO an ideal choice for indoor exercise without disturbing anyone else in the house. Moreover, the system requires virtually no maintenance, making it convenient for frequent use.
Exercise bikes typically have one of three types of drive systems: belt, chain, or direct. Belt drive systems are typically quieter and require less maintenance, whereas chain drives can provide a more authentic biking feel but may require more frequent adjustments and lubrication. Direct drive systems offer the most accurate road simulation but are usually found in higher-end models.
What sets the JOROTO X2 apart is its fully adjustable seat and handlebar. They can be tweaked in four ways to fit users of different heights, allowing everyone to exercise comfortably. The steel toe-caged pedals with adjustable straps also ensure a perfect fit for all foot sizes.
Regarding safety and convenience, the JOROTO X2 packs a punch with an emergency stop brake and handlebar-adjust tube bump. Furthermore, we found the multi-use holder very useful for keeping tablets, phones, water bottles, and other items close by during workouts.
Another is the bike's adjustable resistance knob. A simple twist lets you modify the resistance to match your workout plans. This way, you can tailor the bike's resistance to your fitness objectives.
Finally, the exercise bike has a one-year free replacement parts guarantee and a 24/7 customer support team; JOROTO ensures you're well taken care of. The X2's substantial shipping weight and flywheel weight indicate a robust build unmatched by other brands.
Pros
- Robust construction
- Whisper quiet operation
- Adjustable seat, handlebar, and pedal straps
- Customisable workout intensity
- Excellent customer support
Cons
- Heavy weight affects mobility
- May feel small for taller users
Who Should Buy It?
The JOROTO X2 Stationary Bike is ideal for a sturdy, quiet, and highly customisable home workout solution. Its robust construction and silent operation make it suitable for both shared and solitary living spaces. Furthermore, the fully adjustable design means the bike caters to users of all sizes.
If you want an indoor exercise bike for comfort, adjustability, and quiet operation, the JOROTO X2 should be on your list. Its high maximum weight capacity also makes it an excellent option for heavier individuals seeking a reliable and durable home exercise machine.
6. XTERRA Fitness FB350 Folding Bike
Best for Compact Living Spaces
Material type: Alloy steel
Compact dimensions: 52.07 x 52.07 cm
The XTERRA Fitness FB350 is a convenient and comfortable exercise bike, especially for those with limited space. It can be easily folded down to just 20.5" x 20.5" when unused, making it perfect for small apartments or rooms. Its sturdy X-frame design allows for easy folding, helping you save valuable space while still providing a reliable workout.
Maintaining a good posture while cycling is crucial for an effective workout and for preventing injuries. Ensure your back is straight and your knees are in line with your feet while pedalling. The handlebars should be at a comfortable distance, so you're not leaning too far forward or backward.
The FB350 also has a large, well-designed seat with a back pad and padded handlebars with multiple grip options. We found these features very comfortable for longer workouts and great support. The seat lets you adjust your position during exercise, helping to reduce strain and fatigue.
The bike also has an LCD window that conveniently displays speed, distance, time, calories, and pulse, making tracking your progress during workouts easy. We found the eight levels of manual resistance to be a great feature that could easily be adjusted using the large dial tension knob.
Another feature we particularly appreciated was the handlebar-mounted hand-pulse sensors. These allowed us to easily monitor our heart rates, helping to keep workouts within a target zone for maximum effectiveness.
The bike also includes a useful accessory pocket for a remote control or phone, which we found to be a thoughtful addition.
Pros
- Ergonomic design
- Compact space-saving build
- Integrated LCD monitor
- Heart rate monitoring
- Accessory pocket
Cons
- Limited weight support
- Lacks advanced high-tech features
Who Should Buy It?
The XTERRA Fitness FB350 is perfect for small apartments or limited space. Its folding feature makes it easy to store, and its quiet operation ensures you won't disturb others while working out.
It's also ideal if you prioritise comfort during their workouts. The large, anatomically designed seat with a back pad and multi-grip padded handlebars provide lasting comfort and support.
7. DeskCycle Under-Desk Cycle
Best Under Desk Exercise Bike in Australia
Resistance: 8 levels
Screen: LCD monitor
Warranty: 12-months
If you need an exercise bike under your desk, DeskCycle Under-Desk bike is a great choice. It's compact, affordable, and easily fits into your routine. With a smooth, quiet ride, it keeps you active during sedentary tasks.
With three under-desk models – the DeskCycle, DeskCycle-2, and DeskCycle Ellipse – the company makes it easy to get effective exercise without losing valuable time. This compact bike is perfect for jobs requiring long sitting hours, helping you break sedentary habits. You can work, read, or play games while working out.
DeskCycle has an impressive display. The standard display is a 5-function display that tracks up to 1,000 minutes (just over 16 hours) before resetting, making it perfect for those who plan to pedal for hours during the workday. For even longer tracking, the DeskCycle-2 model offers a large LCD with a count-up of up to 10,000 minutes or over 160 hours.
Pros
- Portable and easy to transport
- Durable build with lightweight construction
- Low to moderate exercise intensity
Cons
- Short crank arms
What We Think About It
Our verdict on the DeskCycle Under-Desk Cycle is positive. If you want a practical, effective, and convenient way to counteract a sedentary lifestyle, it's ideal. Its compact design lets you easily add exercise to your daily routine, making it simple to transition from work to workout.
With its silent operation, DeskCycle ensures you maintain focus on your tasks while keeping your body active. This balance between work and exercise is a key selling point. Plus, its impressive display capabilities offer comprehensive tracking, making it easy for you to measure progress.
8. Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright
Best Cheap Exercise Bike
Resistance: 8 levels, magnetic
Screen: LCD Display
Warranty: 12 months for the frame
If you need a compact but functional exercise bike, the Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright is a great choice. It's a practical option that offers a solid workout while fitting your budget and space limitations.
The exercise bike's folding mechanism is easy to use, so you won't have to struggle whenever you want to store it. Despite its compact design, it remains sturdy and durable, making it a reliable exercise solution.
Like any other machine, exercise bikes require regular maintenance to keep them working optimally. This includes lubricating any moving parts, tightening bolts and screws, and occasionally checking the drive system for any necessary adjustments.
The Exerpeutic Folding Bike is designed for easy use and moderate workouts, making it a great option to stay active, tone up, or lose a few pounds. It's not suited for hardcore athletes or high-intensity sessions. Instead, it provides a gentle yet effective way to improve cardiovascular health.
Where it falls short is that it doesn’t have built-in Bluetooth connectivity. If you want to track your cycling progress, you’ll need to buy an additional device, the MyCloudFitness Bluetooth and cadence sensor. I recommend subscribing to training modules and plans from third-party apps to enhance your fitness journey through structure and motivation.
Pros
- Compact and quiet
- Adjustable seat height
- Simple no-frills design
- Folds for storage
Cons
- Limited resistance range
- Basic display
Our Verdict
Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright is a compact and foldable bike for individuals who need to balance their desire for a healthy lifestyle with space constraints. Its adjustable resistance caters to varying fitness levels, making it a versatile option for most people.
Thus, if you're new to the fitness journey or are looking for an effective way to maintain an active lifestyle without the intensity of a full-blown gym workout, this bike will serve you well. This home exercise bike is also an excellent choice for the budget-conscious fitness enthusiast.
How to Choose the Best Exercise Bike
Choosing the right exercise bike tailored to your needs is easy when you have the proper references and objectives. Start with the basics, such as your budget, available workout space, and time constraints. Then, ponder over the following factors for each bike on your shortlist:
#1. Product features
The first step is to examine its specifications and features. These details provide insights into the equipment’s quality, dimensions, weight, and other essential information. Key considerations like the weight capacity and the number of resistance levels help you choose an exercise bike.
#2. Space and design
Evaluate the available workout space in your home or gym and consider the bike's dimensions and design. Some exercise bikes come with a compact footprint, while others are foldable for a better fit.
Additionally, consider the bike's appeal and how it fits into your space. Choosing a bike with a design that aligns with your personal preferences can contribute to a more enjoyable workout environment.
#3. Comfort and adjustability
An essential aspect of any exercise bike is comfort. Look for a model with an adjustable seat and handlebars, allowing you to find the most ergonomic and comfortable riding position.
Proper seat cushioning and back support are essential for long-duration workouts. Check if the pedals have adjustable straps or cleats to ensure a secure and stable foot position. Comfortable and ergonomic features can make your workouts more enjoyable and help prevent discomfort or injuries.
#4. Customer reviews
Next, check the reviews to assess the product's legitimacy, specifications, and features. While not all reviews are entirely accurate, paying attention to recurring patterns is essential. Whether positive or negative, take note of the features or issues mentioned repeatedly by different users.
#5. Price and value
If you're on a tight budget, consider the cost before purchasing. However, keep in mind that the price usually reflects the value of the exercise bike. A good-value bike often has higher prices, features, and specifications that provide a more comfortable workout experience.
Treadmill vs. Exercise Bike
Both exercise bikes and treadmills offer considerable benefits as they're both forms of cardio exercise. They help burn fat and calories and lower blood pressure and cholesterol while strengthening your heart and lungs. However, depending on your goals and fitness level, one may suit you better.
For example, both options are suitable if your focus is purely on cardio training. Your decision should rest on which activity - cycling or running - you find more enjoyable or which equipment inspires you. Maintaining daily momentum, even when motivation may be low, is crucial.
However, combining outdoor and treadmill running works best if you have oddly specific goals like training for a running competition. Similarly, outdoor cycling, combined with indoor cycling on an exercise bike, is the right option if you're preparing for a bike race.
Regardless of your choice, the benefits of doing either exercise regularly far outweigh sedentary behaviours and activities. So again, choose which option you are more likely to stick with. Both treadmills and exercise bikes are excellent workout choices with plenty of proven benefits to your health and fitness.
Mark Thompson
Elliptical Cross Trainers vs Exercise Bikes
Elliptical cross trainers provide a low-impact, full-body workout that engages upper and lower body muscles. They combine the movements of running, stair climbing, and cross-country skiing for a great cardiovascular workout while minimising stress on the joints. The elliptical motion allows for smooth and fluid movements, making it ideal for individuals with joint pain or those looking to avoid high-impact exercises.
On the other hand, exercise bikes offer a focused lower-body workout, primarily targeting the muscles in the legs, hips, and glutes. They provide an effective cardiovascular workout while putting less strain on the joints. They are popular for individuals of all fitness levels, especially beneficial for those with knee or hip issues. The pedalling motion is low-impact and helps strengthen the leg muscles without excessive joint stress.
Choosing between the two depends on fitness goals and any physical limitations. An elliptical is better if you want a full-body workout that works both your arms and legs. But an exercise bike is ideal if you prefer a workout that focuses on your legs or if you have joint problems. Try both at a gym or store to see which feels more comfortable and enjoyable.
Darren Sherwood
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about home exercise bikes to help you make a better buying decision.
What is the difference between Peloton and NordicTrack?
Peloton requires a $39 per month separate membership plan, whereas NordicTrack has a 1-year subscription to an IFit membership as a part of the standard IFit subscription. As a result, Peloton is pricier in the long run since they require you to pay more to access all the features, whereas NordicTrack is more affordable.
Can you watch TV on your NordicTrack S22i?
The NordicTrack offers you this opportunity if you have an Apple TV or an Amazon Firestick. Simply download the IFit App and log in using your IFit credentials to make this possible.
How effective is an Under-Desk Cycle?
Underdesk cycles are very effective. At a rate of 15 Mph, it's easier not to feel as though they are exercising at all. Yet the expenditure energy raised is considered to be about 3 times more effective than just standing.
What is a dual-action exercise bike?
A dual-action exercise bike ensures an upper and lower body workout; not only the lower body is targeted. This allows suitable calorie burning, toning of the lower limbs, and cardio exercise simultaneously.
How long must you ride an exercise bike to lose weight?
To lose weight on an exercise bike, engage in moderate to intense practice for 30 minutes daily. This is also ideal if you intend to burn more calories.
Darren Sherwood
Wrapping Up
Exercise bikes are very popular because they offer many fitness and overall health benefits. Using a bike in your workout routine can help you lose body fat, lose weight, and strengthen your lower body.
When selecting an exercise bike, it is essential to consider your specific goals, budget constraints, the various types available in the market, and the range of features they offer. These factors help you make an informed choice that aligns with your fitness aspirations.
Now is a great time to change your usual fitness routine and try the benefits of exercise bikes. Pedalling to fitness helps you reach your health goals and boosts your overall quality of life.
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