The primary goal of working out is to have healthy muscles. That is precisely what a recumbent bike offers.
With this bike, you exercise while in a reclined position. As opposed to a traditional bike, have a wider seat that is bucket-shaped and a backrest. Your weight does not, therefore, put pressure on your but only. This gives you a comfortable position of working out.
The standout benefits of the recumbent bike are that it tones more ore muscles and gives a stable exercise. Besides, the best commercial recumbent exercise bike is easily accessible.
In this article, you’ll get an in-depth dissection of the best recumbent bikes, and a guide on how to identify the best.
Did you know that each gym equipment targets specific muscles?
Each equipment in a gym is designed to tone specific muscles on your body. But, to get the desired results, you have to apply specific techniques. These techniques prevent straining and injuries.
A recumbent bike concentrates more on the muscles below your waistline; although it is also excellent for toning abs. The muscles it targets include the calves, hamstrings, quads and the glutes.
Any move involving moving the legs in a manner to lift it involves the muscles mentioned above. On a recumbent bike, you pedal, which means you are moving your legs back and forth. As such, you are working on the muscles of the butt, thighs, and lower foot.
This article presents you the top 10 best commercial recumbent exercise bikes in the market. To feature in the top ten lists, the bike was tested for performance and unique features they possess. For instance, the ability of a bike to be programmed makes it possible to customize your workout.
The main reason why people consider recumbent bikes is the comfortable position they offer while exercising. Remember, not all recumbent bikes are created similarly. There are different manufacturers, and so do not just assume you’ll get comfortable with a recumbent bike.
If you want to know different types, how to select the best type, how to get the best exercises, and any other issue that might be bothering you, this article will answer them best.
Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike with Resistance ME-709

ME-709 is one of the most efficient recumbent bikes. If you are short in stature, adjust to the last notch to get the best fit. If you want to boost your cardio endurance as well as elevate your metabolism, this bike makes the best companion.
Pros
- Pedals offer maximum foot support
- Well-padded seat
- 8 resistance levels
- The computer screen that displays in large digits
- Easy to move around due to the wheels
- Easy to assemble
- Sturdy construction
Cons
- Loses tension quickly
Exerpeutic 900XL 300 lbs. Weight Capacity Recumbent Exercise Bike with Pulse

The Exerpeutic 900XL recumbent bike is very easy to install. In fact, in less than one hour, you’ll have it up and running. The tension can be very difficult, even at level one. But, you can easily adjust the settings.
The bike operates quietly and smoothly, thanks to its well-aligned flywheel. Also, the seats and the backrest are large, and its sturdy construction can carry individuals as heavy as 300lbs. That means, even the heaviest person will find enough space to sit on. The seat can be adjusted to fit users between 5.3 inches and 6.6 inches.
The step-thru bike is equipped an 8 level Magnetic Tension control system. Users will, therefore, customer his/her workout to fit the precise fitness level. Besides, it offers a chance to grow in fitness intensity.
Put in mind that the make of this bike minimizes stress on the back and joints while giving you maximum workout regimen. You can monitor your heart rate easily with this sophisticated equipment thanks to the hand pulse sensors that will help you stay within your target heart rate zone.
The data about your performance is vividly displayed on the large LCD computer screen. It shows time, speed, calories burned, heart rate, and distance.
Pros
- Pedals offer maximum foot support
- Well-padded seat
- 8 resistance levels
- The computer screen that displays in large digits
- Easy to move around due to the wheels
- Easy to assemble
- Sturdy construction
Cons
- Loses tension quickly
Marcy RecumbentME-709 vs. Exerpeutic 900XL
Both recumbent exercise bikes come with outstanding features that will give you the best cardio workout in their rights. However, the Exerpeutic 900XL has additional features such as hand pulse sensors, transportation wheels, and an extra wide seat making at the better performer. Although the bike has a seat that is not so comfortable likes the ME-709.
Exerpeutic ExerWorK 1000 Desk Folding Exercise Bike with Pulse

Even when assembled, you can fold this bike. This drastically reduces its size to a footprint of 21.3″ L x 25.5″ W, a feature that makes storage of this bike easier. Besides, the table comes with a fully adjustable desktop.
The large desktop can tilt in all directions, has a 3-angle adjustment, i.e., 0, 16 and 33 degrees and 5 height adjustments –from 41 inches to 45 inches. Besides, it is equipped with an LCD computer and a drawer. So, you’re your gear will be safe.
Undoubtedly, this semi-recumbent bike has a strong built as it can carry people up to a weight of 300 pounds. The strength of the bike comes from the steel built frame that is coated with powder.
This bike is considered as one of the most comfortable pieces for your workout because its seat is made up of the 2.5 inches thick Airsoft material, and the seat itself is large sized. The technology used to build the seat ensures that the seat remain cools even with longer usage. The best part is you can adjust the seat to fit individuals of height between 5 ft. 2″ and 6 ft. 3″.
Other desirable features in this bike are the hand pulse sensors, 8 level tension resistance, smooth and consistency ridding because of the 3 piece crank system and the transportation wheels.
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- Easy to move around
- Comfortable sitting
- Type as you ride
Cons
- Not ideal for short fellows
DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Bike and Pedal Exerciser

This bike allows you to customize the pedal, thanks to its adjustability. The height operates between 9 and 10 inches giving you more desk clearance. As the name suggests – Under Desk Exercise Bike, you can comfortably place it under your desk and use it and pedal it quietly and unconsciously as you concentrate on your work.
The make and the size of this sturdy bike make it possible for you to use in almost any place that can spare a small space. You can use at home or at work, which makes it an excellent choice for physical therapy or general, exercise.
You can use one of the best works out from the bike as it comes with a wide range of resistance levels. It has a massive 8 resistance settings, starting from the easiest to the toughest.
If you want to view how you are doing, you can put the display stand on your desk. Remember, the bike counts up to an incredible 160 hours.
The machine works quietly and smoothly, thanks to its quiet magnetic resistance system and precision flywheel. You can pedal smoothly without disturbing your coworkers.
The pedals are large sized to fit a wide range of sizes of shoes. Besides, they are equipped with Velcro Straps that are adjustable.
Pros
- Large LED display
- Easy to use
- Smooth magnetic resistance
- Light weight
Cons
- Noise
Exerpeutic ExerWorK 1000
vs.
DeskCycle 2 under Desk Exercise Bike and Pedal Exerciser
The Exerpeutic ExerWorK 1000 is a large and versatile type of bike that gives you a higher intensity cardio workout. Besides, you can monitor your heart rate. But, if you need some light exercises, then the DeskCycle 2 is the option. Though the ExerWorK 1000 is foldable, the DeskCycle 2 is lighter.
Exerpeutic Folding Heavy Duty Magnetic Upright Exercise Bike with Optional Bluetooth

Folding Heavy Duty Magnetic Upright Exercise Bike comes with Bluetooth connectivity. In essence, the bike comes with a Bluetooth Smart Cloud Fitness that has a free MyCloudFitness app. This app is found on both Android and iOS, and you can use it to track your workout through your smartphone.
This upright exercise bike is strong enough to hold up to 300 pounds thanks to its heavy-duty steel frame. You can get a comfortable workout because it offers an easy way to get on or off the bike and it has a large seat that is well-cushioned and can be adjusted to suits individuals of heights between 5’3” and 6’1” height.
The foldable design (folded to half size of the assembly) makes it easier to store the bike while the 3 crank piece systems give the bike high torque, and a smooth and consistent pedaling. The bike operates quietly because the flywheel is well balanced and quiet motion is due to the V-belt drive.
An accessory pouch on the bike is a feature not found on other bikes. The pouch is necessary for organizing your small stuff. You also can monitor your heart rate with the pulse sensors.
The operation of the Exerpeutic folding magnetic exercise bike is through the 8 levels of the calibrated tension control system. The system allows you to adjust the tension from the lowest to the toughest. You can observe your performance on the large LCD computer.
Pros
- Long lasting batteries
- Sturdy construction
- Foldable design that saves space
- Operates smoothly and quietly
- Simple assembly
- Comfortable seat
Cons
- Less durable
- Cheap pedals and straps
- Mileage resets to 0.00 at 999.9
FitDesk Desk Exercise Bike and Office Workstation with Massage Bar

The basic design of this bike is to allow workout as you work. It has a desktop surface that is equipped nonslip rubber, has storage trays and in-built tablet holder. Besides, it has massage rollers. These features are geared towards giving you a comfortable workout.
The bike comes with adjustable features. You can adjust the backrest and the seat to get a comfortable position. Individuals between 4’10” to over 6’ can use the bike with comfort.
The bike is very reliable when it comes to operation. Its gearbox and its components are built of aluminum and steel while the flywheel is the high velocity as it is controlled by a twin belt drive that operates quietly, giving you reliable services for the longest time possible. The frame is similarly durable as it is built of steel.
Like other bikes, you get an 8 level resistance calibration. You can alter the tension using the knob to your suitable fitness level. You can track your performance through the easy to read performance meter. You can get readings for mileage, time, and calories.
What sets this bike apart from others is its ability to work out the upper body part. That is possible because it has resistance bands that exercise the upper body part when you are not typing.
Pros
- Reliable bike
- Comfortable saddle
- Features a massager
- Stable bike
- Easy to fold
- Sturdy construction
Cons
- Strap piece breaks easily
Exerpeutic FoldingMagnetic Upright Exercise Bike with Optional Bluetooth
vs.
FitDesk Desk Exercise Bike
These two bikes have unique features that are almost impossible to single out the best among them. Users give them almost the same rating. However, the Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Exercise Bike with Optional Bluetooth comes at the top because of Bluetooth capability, accessory holder, and transportation wheels. But, if you want to work as to exercise, choose the FitDesk.
Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Folding Recumbent Bike Exercise Bike, 220lb Capacity – SF-RB1117

This foldable pink colored recumbent bike is one of the best options for beginners. Its features are friendly. It prominently features safety handlebars, adjustable pedals and feet stabilizers to maintain perfect balance as you ride.
Note that the pedals are nonskid kind – they’ll secure your feet throughout your workout.
The bike has enough comfort to make your riding enjoyable. For starters, you can adjust the seat to your comfortable height. This way, you pedal without difficulty. Besides, the seat is enormous and well cushioned to support your butt comfortable.
The backrest is equally large to offer additional support to the back, especially if you rider for longer periods or you perform challenging exercises.
The small size of the bike makes a perfect piece for your home. It doesn’t take much space. Also, the lightweight and the wheels make the bike highly portable. You can use it even in your living room as you watch TV.
Like other bikes so far reviewed, the SF-RB1117 bike also features 8 levels magnetic resistance controlled by a knob conveniently located on the frame just in front of you. It is easier to alter the resistance either upwards or downwards.
You can monitor your exercising through the LCD digital screen monitor which displays how your heart is performing, distance as well time. With this data, you can improve the quality of your workout.
Pros
- Easy assembly
- Very affordable
- Quiet performance
- Durable
Cons
- Seat needs more padding
- Not great for tall and heavy people
Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Bike with Adjustable Resistance and Transport Wheels NS-716R

What makes this bike outstanding is that it is has a fully adjustable seat. Such a seat can be used by people who have a different kind of needs. Also, you can adjust the bike from the boom to fit different heights. Regardless of your height, you can find a comfortable ride with this bike.
What you also find comfort in this bike are the standard handlebars that are smartly padded with foam. The handles give a soft, hence a comfortable feel. Similarly, the seat is mold-injected. Such an ergonomic design does not only confer comfort, but it is built to last.
An addition in this bike is a cup holder feature. This is beneficial in holding your water or energy drinks while you pedal away. With this bike, you’ll no longer need to get off your bike.
The NS-716R gives you 8 levels of resistance that are well calibrated. Such a massive range of tension resistance gives you bigger workout options. To adjust the resistance on the magnet wheel, you’ll use the adjustment knob located on the frame.
While you adjust the resistance, you can also check how your heart is beating, the distance covered, calories burning and time used on the panel. The digital tracking panel is straightforward.
NS-716R Marcy Magnetic bike is a sure way to burn your calories.
Pros
- Perfect tension control
- Value for money
- Impressive design
- Works quietly
Cons
- The digital display is not very entertaining
- Loses tension quicker
Sunny SF-RB1117 bike
vs.
Marcy NS-716R recumbent bike
While both bikes have top-notch features the Sunny SF-RB1117 recumbent bike is a better performer than the Marcy NS-716R recumbent bike for its more excellent maneuverability. Besides, the bike comes with a stronger built and a more beautiful look.
Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike

Schwinn 230 is undoubtedly built to ensure that users get the desired results. First, the bike is equipped with the capabilities to set and track fitness goals. Such a feature is essential to individuals who are serious with their training.
The drive systems of the bike have a smart design to give you the best experience. You will be exposed to super speeds and inertia which guarantees start-up. Besides, the system is built to give you the quietest and smoothest rides.
An astonishing feature of this bike is its generous workout settings. You’ll get up to 22 preset programs for your workout, 8 heart rate control, 9 profiles, 1 quick test, and 2 fitness test.
The programs are displayed on the large dual LCD screens that offer easy visibility to your goals and the programs. Who wouldn’t love this machine?
That is not all; you get an MP3 input to listen to your favorite music as you exercise thanks to the in-console speakers. Also, the bike features a conveniently placed USB charging port necessary for charging your music player.
Getting a comfortable position on the bike is straightforward. It comes with a rail slider seat system that is easily adjusted by a lever. So, to get a customized seating position is as easy as 123.
Lastly, the bike can bear weight up to a massive 136kg and an amazing 20 level of resistance.
Pros
- Smooth operation on all resistance
- Easy to adjust slider seat
- Sturdy construction
- Easy construction
- Dual LCD monitors
- In-built consoles
- USB port
- Stable
Cons
- Plastic seat
Nautilus R614 Recumbent Bike

This bike comes with close semblance to the Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike. The bike allows tracking your fitness goals on its large dual LCD screens. The amazing part is that it comes with 22 programs and 20 levels of resistance which give you a wide an extensive range of workout options.
Combining the two features and goal tracking will motivate you to work towards your fitness goal.
The drive system is a premium quality offering demon speeds and inertia. For easy start up, smooth operation and unmatched consistency, the bike is equipped with a perimeter weighted flywheel.
You will get high speed while seating on a very comfortable seat. The seat is well ventilated and padded, ensuring that you remain cool throughout your workout. The seat is on a rail. To find a customized seating position, you have to slide your seat along the rails and lock once you are at a comfortable seating location.
And if you love listening to music while you work out, then this is the bike to look for. It not only has in-built speakers to play your music but has a USB port to from where you can charge your music player – phone or tablet
To reduce heating up, the bike has a fan.
Pros
- Straightforward assembly
- Strong built
- Wide range of resistance workouts
- Speakers with decent sound
- USB charging port
- Smooth and quiet operation
Cons
- Weird seat
Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike
vs.
Nautilus R614 Recumbent Bike
These two bikes are very similar both in features and operations. Similarly, give them almost rating. With this two, there isn’t an outright winner except for personal choice and preference.
Features to Consider In a Commercial Recumbent Bike
With the market flooded with numerous types of recumbent bikes, it is definite that you might be confused on what type to select. More confusion arises when each manufacturer claims that their products are the best.
Do not fall for advertisement because the majority is just marketing strategies. For you, finding a super working recumbent bike is paramount: it gives you high value for your money.
How do you navigate in such a confusing market? Well, regardless of any hype, look critically at the following features before buying a commercial recumbent bike.
>> Intensity settings
As you train, you’ll need to increase the intensity with time. The best commercial recumbent exercise bike should be fit for all level of trainers. That means the bike should be fit for beginners, intermediate, and professionals.Â
In such recumbent bikes, a user can alter the setting to fit their level of a workout without much difficulty.
Note that some bikes are only suitable for beginners and medium trainers. Buying such a bike will limit your workouts. Because, when you train, your muscles will need a constant challenge – higher intensity.
>>Â Number of programs
In the market, you’ll get bikes with or without programs. Those that support programs come with pre-set programs. Such programs make it easier to adjust the intensity level as you train.
In essence, the preset programs represent the profile programs that modify the level of resistance as you pedal. This modification is done at intervals.
Another notable program to consider is the programs that control the heart rate. With this program, you can monitor how your heart performs. Also, you can use it to modify the resistance level to keep your heart rate in a particular heart rate zone.
That is not all; some bikes have been equipped with several fitness tests as well as heart recover tests.
Modern recumbent bikes come with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities and can be operated by an app through a smartphone.
>>Â SeatÂ
The seat of the bike determines whether you will be comfortable or not. This is a feature that you can test before you buy your bike. Try it in the bike store, and see if it will give the comfort you want.
An uncomfortable seat will have a negative impact on your spine, and this will affect your training. Ensure that the seat is neither too soft nor too hard.
Note that most bikes have seats that are breathable and have a composite base which covered by foam or Lycra.
For laid back position, the seats feature a lumbar curve. Such a distinct feature is built for maximum comfort and to give the rider the ability to attain higher speeds. This is a common feature with euro molded seats.
>>Â Recumbent sizing
With some bikes, you can adjust the size to fit the height or size of an individual. How you achieve sizing depends on the type of bike. For instance, in some bikes, you can slide the seat while in others you slide the crank (boom).
Of the two options sliding the seat makes a simpler option because sliding the boom will require you to cut the chain.
>>Â Braking system
The importance of a braking system is to provide the same sensation as that of riding a standard bike. These features greatly vary among the recumbent bikes. The conventional braking systems are those that use the magnet brakes and direct contact brakes. These braking systems provide resistance that can be adjusted quickly.
The other type is fun based.
>>Â Size and weight of a rider
Weight determines the bike one can ride. Heavier individuals will require large sized recumbent bikes while lightweight individuals can use smaller bikes. However, for average individuals, they can use all size fits all recumbent bikes.
Majority of these bikes can carry a weight of between 250lbs and 350lbs. But some support higher weights.
Additional Tips
Have considered the pedaling position? There are 3 pedaling positions i.e., low, medium, and high pedaling heights.
Low Pedal Height: This is a common feature in most long wheelbase bikes. It makes an excellent option for riders who have knee problems because of its slightly reclined laid back position and front pedals. But, it can also be used by serious trainers.
Medium Pedal Height: here the seat if further reclined and the pedal is raised above the seat level. This is the best commercial recumbent exercise bike for people with a hip problem.
High Pedal Height: the seat is further reclined, and the pedals raised even higher such that most weight is transferred from the bottom to the back. If you are a serious athlete, you need to try this type of recumbent bike.
Questions and Answers
Are recumbent bikes good for workouts?
Yes. In fact, these bikes can be used by people with knee or hip problems to tone their muscles due to low impact. Because of their reclining position and ability to work for people with different skills, the bike can be used by individuals with neurological problems.
Why should I use a recumbent bike?
With a recumbent bike, you work out in a laid-back reclining position. This bike has many ergonomic features. In essence, the weight of the rider is distributed over a larger surface area to support the buttock and the back.
What muscles do the recumbent bikes work?
The recumbent bike works on glutes, hamstring, calves, abs, and quads
Can you lose weight on a recumbent bike?
The bike comes with different intensity settings, which allow you to work harder. This leads to burning calories. When you burn calories, you lose weight.
When you combine the use of the bike abs strengthening exercises, you will have a firmer and stronger midsection.
Can a recumbent bike burn belly fat?
The use of a recumbent bike only will not effectively burn the fats. However, it will firm the abs to a considerable level. If you want great results, combine it with other exercises such as a treadmill.
Are recumbent bikes comfortable?
Yes. They are very comfortable because the seat supports the back of the rider, unlike upright bikes.Â
Are bikes safe?
Yes, Of course.
Conclusion
Your safety as your train is one of the first things to consider. So far, a recumbent bike offers one of the safest ways to tone your muscles.
Besides, these bikes can be used by individuals of all levels, thanks to their versatile settings. People with knee injuries or hip problems cannot work out on equipment that has a higher impact. For instance, they cannot effectively use a treadmill.
But a recumbent bike offers a haven to such individual. They can work out safely and achieve the desired level of fitness.
Designs of the bike vary, and so are the features that they are built with. Whether you are working out in a gym or at home, you’ll need to find a recumbent bike that worked best for you.
The best part with recumbent bikes is that they are easily accessible, safe as well as easy to use. For the programmed type, you only have to enter your desired programming setting then hit the pedals.
With continuous usage, you’ll have well-toned glutes, abs, hamstrings, and calves. That means the best commercial recumbent bike offers you a targeted type of workout.

