Which is better for me, an upright exercise bike or recumbent bike?

Both recumbent bikes and upright exercise bikes are good for improving your fitness, but there are differences in how you sit and how it affects your body. “An upright bike increases gluteus max, abdominal, and back muscle activation compared to a recumbent bike and typically burns more calories,” Dr. Macera says. “However, for those who have limited mobility or balance, the recumbent bike can be a safer option and more appropriate.” For example, people with back problems tend to find a recumbent bike to be more comfortable.

What muscles does the recumbent bike target?

“When exercising on a recumbent bike, you’ll use your quadriceps, hamstrings, shins, calves, and glutes,” Dan Jonhenry, expert trainer at Retro Fitness, says. It’s also good for the knees and hips, especially for individuals with osteoarthritis, as it is low-impact but increases blood flow and joint fluid, according to Dr. Macera.

Does a recumbent bike give you a good workout?

Yes. Recumbent bikes provide a quality aerobic workout that benefits the cardiovascular system over time. What's more, the workout activates the larger muscle groups in your legs, helping build and tone them as you pedal. It's a particularly helpful workout for people who are new to exercise and need an option that provides more stability, people with joint problems looking for a low-impact form of movement, and seniors focused on longevity. “Recumbent bikes can be a great benefit to some in achieving the goal to become more functional,” Jonhenry says.

How much does a quality recumbent exercise bike cost?

For a quality exercise bike, you can expect to spend between $145-$800. Our experts recommend investing in a bike in the $300-$600 range unless you have a large household and are planning on using the bike daily, in which case it may be worth splurging for a pricier model. Cheaper models are best for those who only plan to cycle a few days a week or if you're not planning on keeping the bike long-term and you're just looking for a bargain. The cheapest bike on our list is often available for less than $145, while our top recommendation, the Schwinn Recumbent Bike Series , was $799 when we published this list.

The 10 Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes of 2023

The 10 Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes of 2022 — Verywell / Sabrina Jiang

Recumbent exercise bikes are an effective way to add cardio to your home gym routine. A recumbent bike also promotes good spinal alignment because of the way you sit which may help reduce lower back pain and pressure, allowing for a more comfortable ride. In addition, recumbent bikes are extremely versatile especially for those age 65 and older who want to stay active safely, people of all ages recovering from injuries, and anyone looking for a low-impact way to improve their cardiovascular fitness.

“Recumbent bikes are also a great way to increase strength in your lower extremities as well as mobility,” Candace Morton, PT, DPT, a physical therapist at ProRehab in Louisville, KY, says.

When shopping for recumbent exercise bikes, consider weight and height capacities and seat adjustability—especially if multiple people in the household will use the bike. A good bike should also have varying resistance levels to allow for different types of workouts and an easy-to-use monitor display. “All of these features allow you to have a more comfortable and customizable ride in which you can achieve your fitness goals,” Morton says.

We reviewed recumbent bikes for weight, height capacity, value, sturdiness, and comfort when evaluating them. We also considered our expert's recommendations and user reviews to find the best recumbent exercise bikes on the market. A certified personal trainer from our Review Board reviewed this information for accuracy in regard to recumbent versus upright models and who can benefit most from these devices.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Schwinn 270 Recumbent Exercise Bike at Amazon

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Best Budget:

Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike at Amazon

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Best for Seniors:

Sunny Health & Fitness Recumbent Bike SF at Amazon

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Best Adjustable:

Marcy ME 706 Recumbent Bike at Amazon

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Best Weight Capacity:

Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike at Amazon

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Best Foldable:

Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike with Performance Monitor at Amazon

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Best High-Tech:

NordicTrack Commercial R 35 Recumbent Bike at Amazon

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Best for Bad Knees:

Star Trac S-RBx Recumbent Bike at Amazon

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Best for Beginners:

Vanswe Recumbent Exercise Bike at Amazon

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Best With Built-In Workouts:

Nautilus Recumbent Bike at Amazon

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In This Article

Our Picks
How We Selected
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Fit

4.8

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Sears.com

Pros

25 resistance levels
Ventilated, padded seat
29 workout presets

Cons

Assembly requires more than one person
Paired app needs improvement

We chose the Schwinn 270 Recumbent bike as our top overall pick because of its 25 resistance levels, ability to store multiple user profiles, and other impressive features. A household name in the cycling realm, including indoor cycling bikes, Schwinn built this recumbent bike with home riders in mind. It has a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds and a sliding seat to adjust for your ideal pedal position. The seat is padded, well-ventilated, and contoured to provide lumbar support as you exercise. Plus, the three-speed fan keeps you cool throughout your workout.

The perimeter-weighted flywheel makes for a smooth ride, and 29 workout presets allow you to take advantage of the bike’s many resistance levels, giving you the exact intensity you want. Moreover, the LCD display lets you store workouts across four different user profiles, so everyone in your home can keep track of their fitness data.

Price at time of publication: $799

^{Key Specs:
Maximum Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | Adjustability: Seat slides forward and backward | Resistance: Perimeter weighted flywheel with 25 resistance levels | Product Weight: 86.6 pounds | Dimensions: 64 x 27.7 x 49.9 inches}

Amazon

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Pros

Heavy-duty construction
Clear and sharp LCD display
Comfortable seat and handles

Cons

Fewer resistance settings than other options
Stiffer seat

For a fraction of the price of other bikes on our list, you can enjoy this recumbent design from Marcy. The heavy-duty construction supports a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds, and the seat slides to accommodate a wide range of leg lengths. The step-through design makes it easy and safe to hop on and off whenever you’re ready to exercise, and the magnetic resistance mechanism provides eight different resistance levels for you to customize your workout based on your needs.

We love that the LCD display allows for a clear and sharp readout of your time, speed, distance, and calories burned in extra-large numbers, so you won’t feel compelled to hunch forward in the high-density foam seat. Finally, the bike features contoured, foam-covered handles for extra support as you ride, keeping your form intact and your back free of pain.

Price at time of publication: $145

^{Key Specs:
Maximum Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | Adjustability: Seat slides forward and backward | Resistance: Magnetic resistance mechanism with eight resistance levels | Product Weight: 61 pounds | Dimensions: 55.5 x 25 x 37.5 inches}

Amazon

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Pros

Quiet on all settings
Very sturdy
Works both your upper and lower body

Cons

Calorie/heart rate tracking somewhat inaccurate
Not for taller riders

As you age, it’s important to maintain your strength, endurance, and flexibility across all major muscle groups to stave off injury successfully. For this reason, we recommend this recumbent bike that also features hand pedals so you can challenge your upper body as well.

The magnetic resistance flywheel makes for a smooth and adjustable ride and allows you to choose from eight resistance levels. The arm resistance is also adjustable, so you can tailor it to your fitness level.

The bike is well-constructed and sturdy enough to support up to 350 pounds safely. A large seat and back cushion provide plush comfort and are easy to adjust on the fly. Plus, the easy-to-read digital monitor screen displays your workout time, distance, and calories.

We love that it’s also equipped with transportation wheels at the front so you can move it from room to room or store it away easily.

Price at time of publication: $379

^{Key Specs:
Maximum Weight Capacity: 350 pounds | Adjustability: Seat slides forward and backward | Resistance: Magnetic resistance flywheel with eight resistance levels | Product Weight: 91 pounds | Dimensions: 51 x 25 x 52.5 inches}

Amazon

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Pros

Quiet and smooth
No power source needed
Accommodates wide range of users

Cons

Assembly is a bit tedious
No water bottle holder

If you’re particularly concerned about getting the right fit on your recumbent bike, we suggest trying Marcy’s ME 706 bike. Designed to allow for plenty of legroom, it boasts an adjustable seat that fits most users and can be adjusted while you’re seated on the bike.

The well-built, heavy-duty bike can also support up to 300 pounds, so it’s a great option if you need to accommodate a wide range of heights and weights. Also, the bike features adjustable levelers that allow you to balance out the bike on most surfaces—including on slightly uneven flooring.

The bike’s magnetic resistance has 24 levels and provides a smooth, quiet ride. The LCD display, which is powered through pedaling, has 23 workout programs and shows workout stats such as time, distance, RPM, speed, calories, and pulse.

Price at time of publication: $780

^{Key Specs:
Maximum Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | Adjustability: Seat slides forward and backward | Resistance: Magnetic resistance flywheel with 24 resistance levels | Product Weight: 105 pounds | Dimensions: 57 x 24 x 42 inches}

Amazon

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Pros

Oversized seat and backrest
Non-slip pedal design
Works both your upper and lower body

Cons

Assembly is a bit tedious
Pedals may not be as durable as the rest of the bike

Worried when it comes to the weight capacity of your fitness equipment? If that's your primary concern, we recommend this recumbent bike from Sunny Health & Fitness, which features a heavy-duty frame that safely supports up to 350 pounds.

Its oversized seat and backrest provide the posture-correcting support you need for a safe workout and the seat is easily adjusted while you're already on the bike, so you can find your ideal position and get right to pedaling.

Speaking of pedals, this bike includes non-slip adjustable foot pedals with a large surface area for stability. Meanwhile, the magnetic resistance flywheel allows you to choose from eight different resistance levels during your workout, and the moveable handlebars give you an excellent total-body workout option.

Price at time of publication: $389

^{Key Specs:
Maximum Weight Capacity: 350 pounds | Adjustability: Seat slides forward and backward, foot pedals adjust, and handlebars move | Resistance: Magnetic resistance flywheel with 8 resistance levels | Product Weight: 95.8 pounds | Dimensions: 60 x 25.5 x 52 inches}

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Small-space friendly
Easy assembly
8 resistance levels

Cons

Only semi-recumbent
Stiffer seat

If you're looking for a foldable recumbent exercise bike (yes, there is such a thing!), we recommend this model from Exerpeutic. It supports a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds and fits in an impressively compact home gym space.

With the foldable design, you sacrifice the preferred magnetic resistance flywheel, but the three-piece cranking system still provides a smooth and consistent pedaling experience. The resistance system uses magnetic tension control to give you eight resistance levels to choose from, and the LCD display tracks your distance, calories, time, speed, and heart rate.

The seat sits a little higher than most recumbent bike models, but if foldability is the priority, you really do get the best of all worlds with this pick.

Price at time of publication: $199

^{Key Specs:
Maximum Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | Adjustability: Seat slides up and down | Resistance: Three-piece cranking system with eight resistance levels | Product Weight: 43 pounds | Dimensions: 20 x 17 x 54 inches}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Dick's View On Nordictrack.com

Pros

26 resistance options
30-day iFIT membership
Trainers can adjust your resistance remotely

Cons

Expensive
Many features can't be accessed without iFIT membership

NordicTrack's latest recumbent bike model is our favorite high-tech pick. Even more feature-packed than the previous model, this bike has 26 resistance options and magnetic resistance that should be near silent. It comes with a 14-inch high-definition smart touchscreen where you can stream live and on-demand cycling classes. Plus, if you choose to take a trainer-led class on the bike, iFIT trainers can automatically adjust your resistance remotely, ensuring you always get the best workout.

The one caveat is that you can only access the instructor-led classes with an iFIT Membership, as is the case with other NordicTrack equipment like their elliptical, which is one of the best ellipticals on the market. You'll get a 30-day trial included with the purchase of this bike, but once that ends you'll have to shell out $34 per month to keep those perks. We think the extra cost is well worth it, as it will also allow you to ride anywhere in the world through the immersive screen, thanks to built-in GPS Maps technology.

Other than being extremely functional, this bike is also very comfortable. It features lumbar support, especially beneficial for exercisers with low back pain, a fully adjustable seat, and oversized pedals for every foot size and shape.

Price at time of publication: $1,799

^{Key Specs:
Maximum Weight Capacity: 350 pounds | Adjustability: Seat slides forward and backward, plus adjustable handlebars | Resistance: Magnetic resistance flywheel with 26 resistance levels | Product Weight: 192 pounds | Dimensions: 68.22 x 23.69 x 53.42 inches}

Amazon

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Pros

Sturdy steel construction
20 resistance levels
Wrap-around seat adjustment mechanism

Cons

More expensive than other models

If you gravitate to recumbent bike workouts because of knee pain, we suggest you try this top-of-the-line Star Trac bike. This steel-framed bike supports a maximum weight capacity of 350 pounds and doesn’t require an external power source for operation.

The one-piece crank system offers twenty different levels of resistance, so you can customize the intensity of your workout easily. The walk-through design paired with the wrap-around seat adjustment mechanism—which allows you to truly customize how far or close your seat is to the bike's pedals—prevent you from putting your knees in potentially painful positions.

Meanwhile, the built-in fan keeps you cool, and the dashboard shares all the statistics you need to keep track of your workouts.

Price at time of publication: $3,499

^{Key Specs:
Maximum Weight Capacity: 350 pounds | Adjustability: Seat slides forward and backward with wrap-around adjustment mechanism | Resistance: One-piece cranking system with 20 resistance levels | Product Weight: 212 pounds | Dimensions: 66 x 28 x 53 inches}

Amazon

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Pros

Thick, padded seat cushion and backrest
Bluetooth connectivity for digital devices
16 resistance levels

Cons

May be too lightweight for intense exercise
Not for taller riders

For beginner exercisers, we recommend Vanswe’s Recumbent Exercise Bike as an ideal entry-level machine that’s easy to use and extremely comfortable. With a weight capacity of 380 pounds and an adjustable seat, it can accommodate a wide variety of riders. It also has a thick, plush seat cushion and backrest to ensure proper posture.

Although it’s a fairly basic and inexpensive bike, we love that it still comes with features such as Bluetooth connectivity, heart rate sensors, and a wide, bright LCD screen that displays time, distance, speed, pulse, and calories.

The bike’s magnetic resistance system provides quiet, smooth pedaling and offers 16 resistance levels, so you can change the degree of difficulty as you become more fit. Plus, it has a stand to hold your tablet so you can watch your favorite shows as you’re riding.

Price at time of publication: $259

^{Key Specs:
Maximum Weight Capacity: 380 pounds | Adjustability: Seat slides forward and backward | Resistance: Magnetic resistance flywheel with 16 levels | Product Weight: 53 pounds | Dimensions: 45 x 20 x 40 inches}

Amazon

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Pros

29 built-in workout programs
Includes a fan, snack holder and tablet stand
Access to the Explore the World app

Cons

Not for petite riders
Difficult to move

If you like having access to a wide range of programs, we recommend the Nautilus R616 recumbent bike, which comes with 29 built-in workouts. The bike also features Bluetooth connectivity and access to the Explore the World app, which lets you travel the globe through simulated rides. In addition, the 25 resistance levels give you a lot of intensity options to work with.

With a padded, wide, and adjustable seat, this bike also offers a high level of comfort, making it a nice option for riders who enjoy longer rides. It’s also well-built, easy to operate, and runs quietly. In addition, the bike comes with some nice-to-have features such as a fan, water bottle and snack holder, and tablet stand.

Price at time of publication: $599

^{Key Specs:
Maximum Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | Adjustability: Seat slides forward and backward | Resistance: Magnetic resistance flywheel with 25 levels | Product Weight: 92 pounds | Dimensions: 61 x 22 x 41 inches}

How We Selected the Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes

To find the best recumbent exercise bikes, we researched dozens of machines from top fitness equipment retailers and brands, opting for best-sellers and options with stellar customer feedback. We also reached out to experts—including two licensed physical therapists and two certified personal trainers—for recommendations and advice on what to look for when selecting recumbent exercise bikes.

To narrow down our options, we evaluated bikes based on their features, ease of assembly and use, adjustability, sturdiness, comfort, and value. Based on how each bike held up to these criteria, we determined which bikes were best suited for different needs. We also consulted with these experts:

Candace Morton, PT, DPT, a physical therapist at ProRehab in Louisville, KY
Shelby Morrison, certified personal trainer and owner of ShelbyFit
Dan Macera, PT, DPT, clinic director at Pappas OPT Physical, Sports and Hand Therapy
Dan Jonhenry, expert trainer at Retro Fitness

What to Look For in a Recumbent Exercise Bike

Weight and Height Capacity

Recumbent bike weight capacities can range pretty dramatically, so be sure to check whether the one you’re eyeing will give you the stability you and any other rider in your family may need. What’s more, some models work better for shorter folks, and some models are ideal for taller folks. Check the height range listed in the product description to ensure that you’ll be able to pedal on the bike comfortably.

Adjustability

Ideally, your recumbent bike should feature adjustability in the seat and backrest to suit your leg length, in addition to an adjustable foot cage for secure peddling. “With your feet on the pedals and the pedals furthest away from the seat, your knees should have a 25-to-30-degree bend to them,” Shelby Morrison, certified personal trainer and owner of ShelbyFit, says.

Proper positioning allows you to reach and hold the handlebars comfortably, as well as use any controls on the display screen. If you have bad knees, and perhaps need running shoes for bad knees, it's important to be able to adjust the bike to prevent potentially painful positions.

Resistance

Most popular bikes use magnetic tension resistance on the flywheel to create a quiet and smooth ride that can be as challenging as you want it to be. Be sure to look for this detail when picking out your bike. And when it comes to the flywheel itself, the heavier it is, the more realistic riding experience you’ll get with your bike.

Monitor Display

This one comes down to personal preference, as some people prefer a simplistic design while others want it as technologically advanced as possible. “While all bikes don’t have a display, it can be helpful,” Morrison says. “Most people will work harder since you can see the level of resistance, your time, your speed, and some even have a heart rate monitor.”

Regardless of your style, be sure your display gives you the basic information you need since those factors can help you keep track of your progress over time.

Price

Although some bargains can be found, it’s worth it to get a higher quality bike in the range of $300 to $600 if you plan to use it long-term. “Higher-end bikes, which are typically $1,000 to $3,000, are not necessary unless multiple people are going to be using the bike, and it will get several hours of use a day,” Dan Macera, PT, DPT, clinic director at Pappas OPT Physical, Sports and Hand Therapy, says.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better for me, an upright exercise bike or recumbent bike?

Both recumbent bikes and upright exercise bikes are good for improving your fitness, but there are differences in how you sit and how it affects your body.
“An upright bike increases gluteus max, abdominal, and back muscle activation compared to a recumbent bike and typically burns more calories,” Dr. Macera says. “However, for those who have limited mobility or balance, the recumbent bike can be a safer option and more appropriate.” For example, people with back problems tend to find a recumbent bike to be more comfortable.
What muscles does the recumbent bike target?

“When exercising on a recumbent bike, you’ll use your quadriceps, hamstrings, shins, calves, and glutes,” Dan Jonhenry, expert trainer at Retro Fitness, says.
It’s also good for the knees and hips, especially for individuals with osteoarthritis, as it is low-impact but increases blood flow and joint fluid, according to Dr. Macera.
Does a recumbent bike give you a good workout?

Yes. Recumbent bikes provide a quality aerobic workout that benefits the cardiovascular system over time. What's more, the workout activates the larger muscle groups in your legs, helping build and tone them as you pedal.
It's a particularly helpful workout for people who are new to exercise and need an option that provides more stability, people with joint problems looking for a low-impact form of movement, and seniors focused on longevity.
“Recumbent bikes can be a great benefit to some in achieving the goal to become more functional,” Jonhenry says.
How much does a quality recumbent exercise bike cost?

For a quality exercise bike, you can expect to spend between $145-$800. Our experts recommend investing in a bike in the $300-$600 range unless you have a large household and are planning on using the bike daily, in which case it may be worth splurging for a pricier model. Cheaper models are best for those who only plan to cycle a few days a week or if you're not planning on keeping the bike long-term and you're just looking for a bargain.
The cheapest bike on our list is often available for less than $145, while our top recommendation, the Schwinn Recumbent Bike Series, was $799 when we published this list.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

As a seasoned health writer, Alena Hall understands the importance of not just staying active but doing so in a safe and smart way. Over the years, she has reviewed dozens of products, from athletic recovery aids to condition-specific products to homeopathic essential oils, to help readers like you discover products that can help you live your best life.

Additional reporting by Christine Luff, ACE-CPT

A certified personal trainer, running coach, gym buff, and fitness writer, Christine Luff, ACE-CPT, spends countless hours researching and testing the latest exercise gear and gadgets. When various injuries have sidelined her during marathon training, she has enjoyed rehabbing on the recumbent bike.