After researching the best affordable exercise bikes on the market, we purchased a diverse selection of nine for side-by-side testing and comparison. Our testers spent many hours spinning away the miles in our workout rooms, living rooms, and home offices to get a feel for the exercise quality of each model. Our testing process focused not only on performance but also on important details like the ease of setup/assembly, portability, comfort, user interface, and features of each bike. This article will go into more detail about how we tested each metric.
Exercise Quality
In the affordable price range and with different styles of exercise bikes in our selection, the workout quality varied significantly between the models we tested. Some were capable of a near gym-quality workout, while others provided light to moderate-intensity exercise. We spent several hours test-riding each model to assess the exercise quality of each stationary bike. By attempting to replicate the same high-intensity interval workout on each bike, our testers were able to determine what level and quality of exercise were possible on the different models. This workout routine was repeated on each model and provided a straightforward assessment of the performance differences and limitations between models and styles. The number of resistance settings and the quality and range of the resistance were also considered, as well as exercise-specific features like preprogrammed workouts. For the smart bikes with connected features, we downloaded the compatible apps and tested those along with the bike to get a feel for them and their functionality.
Comfort
Most of the bikes we tested are comfortable, but the Schwinn AD6 was among the best models we tested. An upright model promotes an athletic and active body position that may not suit everyone's tastes, but we loved the engaged feeling. It has few adjustments, but it impressed everyone who spent time on it. Likewise, the Echelon EX-3 impressed us with its comfort. This bike has loads of seat and handlebar height adjustment and a slimmer, performance-oriented seat that mimics a road saddle. It also comes with dual-function pedals with cages on one side and SPDs on the other, so you can choose the style that suits you best. Similarly, the Schwinn IC4 offers vertical and horizontal adjustment in the seat and handlebar, allowing the rider to customize the fit to their preferences.
User Interface
The term "user interface" refers to the display and controls used to interact with each machine. Each model in our test has a slightly different display unit and controls. To evaluate the user interface, we followed the instructions provided in the user manuals for setting up and turning on each model, starting and stopping workouts, adjusting resistance, scrolling through menus/programs, and so on. We became accustomed to their use and the peculiarities associated with each model during numerous workouts. We rated each interface based on the user-friendliness and intuitiveness of the controls. We also considered the display's size and readability and the information it provided.
Features
When considering what exercise bike to buy, you may seek a simple, no-frills design or interest in connectivity, bells, and whistles. To assess each model, we considered how many features they had and the quality and usefulness of each feature. These include but are not limited to tech features like preprogrammed workouts, user profiles, data storage, Bluetooth connectivity, USB chargers, and heart rate sensors. Other features like tablet/magazine holders, speakers, fans, desktops, and water bottle or cup holders were also considered.
Ease of Setup/Portability
Each exercise bike arrived at our testing facility in its original packaging. To assess the ease of setup/assembly of each model, we unboxed each bike and assembled it ourselves using only the manufacturer's instructions and the included hardware and tools. We kept track of how long it took to assemble each model and made notes about the quality of the included instructions and the relative difficulty of the task. Additionally, this metric assesses how much space each model takes up in your home workout space, as well as how easy it is to move around and store when not in use. Can you move it independently, or is it a two-person job? Can it be stored in a closet or under your desk, or will it be a permanent fixture in your home? Each model was weighed, measured, and compared to the manufacturer's specifications. Products that could be folded for storage were also measured in their collapsed size.
Conclusion
At GearLab, we don't just pretend to test the products we review; we put in the time and effort to thoroughly test each and every model. In this case, that involved putting in the hours while spinning away the miles during multiple workouts on each budget exercise bike. We hope our comprehensive testing process and detailed reviews help you find the best model to suit your needs and budget.