5 Best Recumbent Exercise Bike Reviews with Buying Guide and FAQ

Best Recumbent Exercise Bike Reviews 2022

Cycling without beating the hell out of your knees and joints literally, that’s what a recumbent bike offers you.

A recumbent bike is a low-impact workout machine that imitates the motion of riding a bicycle. And you do this while sitting on a comfortable large seat, hands on the handlebars right beside the seat, and leaning on the back support. An overall relaxed position, you can say, is a position that won’t hurt your knees but allow you to do workouts effectively.

Also, these machines are great for rehabilitation or physiotherapy. These machines offer low-impact workouts. Not to mention these are awesome recumbent bikes for seniors.

If you are suffering from bad knees or want a laid-back workout session, a recumbent bike is your way to go. And here we’ve come up with some of the best recumbent bike reviews of 2022 available and brought them to you, let’s take a look!

High End

Nautilus R618

Check Price

Budget

Schwinn 270

Check Price

Economy

Marcy ME 709

Check Price

5 Best Recumbent Exercise Bike Reviews with Buying Guide and FAQ 2022

Features

  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Built-in console speakers
  • Lots of built-in programs
  • User capability up to 4 persons
  • Ride virtually with RideSocial App
  • Easy-to-access walk through design
  • Ten quick resistance changing keys
  • Adjustable fan with three-speed options
  • Comfortable seat with ventilated back support
  • Connects with fitness tracking apps, including Schwinn Trainer App

Specifications

  • Display: DualTrack LCD
  • Adjustable Seat: Yes
  • Leg Inseam: N/A
  • Item Weight: 86.6 lbs
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs
  • Resistance levels: 25
  • Workout Programs: 29
  • Footprint: 64L x 27.7W inches
  • Dimension: 64L x 27.7W x 49.9H inches
  • Warranty: 10 years for the frame, 1-year for labor, and 3-years for parts

The SCHWINN 270 is a premium quality recumbent bike with great features. It’s the bigger and updated version of the SCHWINN 230, which we’ve mentioned to the Best Recumbent Bike Under $500 category. And this 270 bike is a step ahead of that, and it got better features and quality.

One of the top-selling facts is the various options this machine offers. For example, there are 25 resistance levels, where you’ll only get 8 or 16 levels on the average ones. More resistance levels mean you can choose the difficulty level from various options and find the perfect tension for you.

There are also many workout programs available, 29 of them. And they are specially made for different modes such as profile, heart rate control, custom, and quick start. Also, it has Bluetooth connectivity; you can connect with various fitness apps and track your workout data.

To put it simply, This is the machine that you might call an ideal recumbent bike. However, the price of this machine is also a bit higher, but it’s not unfairly overpriced. This SWCHINN 270 is for you if you want a good workout or recovery session, and quality is the thing that matters the most to you.

Features

  • Adjustable seat
  • Large handlebars
  • Easy-to-use console
  • Easy to read display
  • Step-through design
  • Great value for the money
  • Simple yet effective design
  • Magnetic resistance levels
  • Easy moving with transportation wheels
  • Weighted pedals with adjustable strap

Specifications

  • Display: Small LCD
  • Adjustable Seat: Yes
  • Leg Inseam: 27-37 inches
  • Item Weight: 61 lbs
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs
  • Resistance levels: 8
  • Workout Programs: N/A
  • Footprint: 58L x 20W inches
  • Dimension: 58L x 20W x 38H inches
  • Warranty: 2 years for the frame

If you want a good recumbent bike but don’t have a wide range budget like the previous SWCHINN 270, this one might be for you. The Marcy ME-709 is a bike that offers a typical workout or recovery feature and comes in an affordable price range.

The unique selling point for this cycling machine will certainly be the service it offers on a budget. Also, this machine has a decent amount of positive user feedback.

This cycling device got basic features in other recumbent bikes and got a simple yet effective design. You’ll get eight resistance levels in this workout machine, and you can also track your workout data on the digital display. The display will not be like the SWCHINN 270; it’s a small LCD that shows numbers.

So, you want a simple bike that you can use for workouts and recovery sessions without hurting your knee and pocket. This Marcy ME-709 will be the best bet for you.

Features

  • Step-through design
  • Wide cushioned seat
  • Budget-friendly option
  • Two-way seat adjustments
  • Built-in transportation wheels
  • Lightweight workout machine
  • Track workout data on the LCD
  • Magnetic tension resistance levels
  • Heart rate sensor on the handlebars
  • Weighted pedals with adaptable straps

Specifications

  • Display: Small LCD
  • Adjustable Seat: Yes
  • Leg Inseam: 29-38 inches
  • Item Weight: 58.7 lbs
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs
  • Resistance levels: 8
  • Workout Programs: N/A
  • Footprint: 46L x 24.5W inches
  • Dimension: 46L x 24.5W x 38H inches
  • Warranty: 3 years for the frame, 180 days for other parts

It’s another budget-friendly cycling device on our list. The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RB4616 recumbent bike. This also has a simple and convenient design, similar to the previous Marcy ME-709 bike.

The unique selling point of this bike will be the convenient features at an affordable price. Also, the easy assembly and lightweight are some of the features people love about this workout machine. Recumbent bikes are recommended for people with bad knees and joints. But how unfortunate it’ll be if you hurt yourself moving this device?

This cycling machine has transportation wheels attached. And it’s lighter than most recumbent bikes out there. So, moving this machine will be no pressure and will be a piece of cake.

Other than that, you’ll get pretty standard recumbent cycle features here, a nice and cushioned seat that is adjustable. Pulse monitor on the long handlebars and a small LCD that shows your workout data.

So, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RB4616 is another budget option if you are looking for a low-impact workout machine in a budget.

Features

  • Oversized pedals
  • Four users capability
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Effective flywheel system
  • Sliding adjustable padded seat
  • Floor stabilizers for better balance
  • Built-in Acoustic chamber stereo speakers
  • Easy transportation with wheels at the front
  • Performance tracking with Explore the World app
  • Temporary and connect enabled heart rate sensors available

Specifications

  • Display: Two Backlit LCD
  • Adjustable Seat: Yes
  • Leg Inseam: N/A
  • Item Weight: 105 lbs
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs
  • Resistance levels: 25
  • Workout Programs: 29
  • Footprint: 65.3L x 28.3W inches
  • Dimension: 65.3L x 28.3W x 49.6H inches
  • Warranty: 10 years for the frame, three years for parts, and one year for labor

The Nautilus R616 is a premium recumbent bike on our list. This cycling machine is similar to the SCHWINN 270, and they are both quality workout machines. Like the SCHWINN 270, you’ll also get lots of preset exercise selections and resistance levels. They seem identical, to be honest, and the fact is true that they both are top-quality recumbent bikes.

You’ll find 25 resistance levels and 29 built-in programs available in this Nautilus R616 cycle. And that means you can choose from different varieties of options and difficulties. The seat is adjustable, and the plastic back support has vents so that the air can pass through and keep you cool. Although, we heard a bit of complaint about the seat adjustment mechanism.

This is a premium workout machine, and you’ll be looking for smooth workout performance. And the 10 kg heavy flywheel helps you with that; you get a much smoother workout session. There are also some useful features like a water bottle holder, media holder, three levels adjustable fan, and more.

These features make the Nautilus R616 recumbent bike a good choice for people searching for better quality.

Features

  • Built-in speakers
  • Enhanced flywheel
  • Walkthrough design
  • Water bottle holder
  • Easily adjustable seat
  • Easy to use control panel
  • Great for cardio workouts
  • Pedals with adjustable straps
  • EKG pulse sensor at handle grip
  • Track workout data with the windowed LCD

Specifications

  • Display: LCD
  • Adjustable Seat: Yes
  • Leg Inseam: N/A
  • Item Weight: 102 lbs
  • Weight capacity: 275 lbs
  • Resistance levels: 18
  • Workout Programs: iFit Trainer
  • Footprint: 40L x 21W inches
  • Dimension: 40L x 21W x 61H inches
  • Warranty: 5-years for the frame and 90 days for the parts

The ProForm 325 CSX is another low-impact workout machine with middle to higher budget range. This one might not give you as many options as the Nautilus R616, but it’s better than other budget options.

This recumbent bike has wonderful positive user feedback, and that’s one of the many reasons this machine made it to this list. As we’ve already mentioned, these devices are easy on your knees and joints, and this one is no different.

There are 18 resistance levels available in this workout device, allowing you to choose the difficulty level as much as possible. Admittedly, the number of resistance levels is not as high as the earlier premium ones, but 18 levels are good enough.

The other features of this machine are also pretty impressive and make up for the price it comes. You’ll get a bottle holder, a device holder, and transportation wheels, making it convenient. And along with these easy-to-use features and a reasonable price, the ProForm 325 CSX becomes a good home workout machine.

Honorable Mention

Features

  • Large back support
  • Quiet biking motion
  • Step-through design
  • Magnetic resistance
  • Easily adjustable seat
  • Easy-to control console
  • Transportation wheels added
  • Handlebars under the console
  • Pulse sensor on the handlebars
  • Large LCD for tracking workout data

Specifications

  • Display: Small LCD
  • Adjustable Seat: Yes
  • Leg Inseam: 5’3″ – 6′ 6″ (height range)
  • Item Weight: 63 lbs
  • Weight capacity: 300 lbs
  • Resistance levels: 8
  • Workout Programs: N/A
  • Footprint: 54L x 22W inches
  • Dimension: 54L x 22W x 34H inches

The Exerpeutic 900XL is another very capable recumbent bike. As we are making the list of top 5 cycling machines, we couldn’t help but mention this machine.

This bike has a long inseam range, and it can handle up to 6.6 feet, tall person. So, this is one of the best recumbent bikes for tall people. And the step-through design helps you go through the device without much trouble.

The display and the console are simple, and it’s pretty easy to use; anyone can operate it without much trouble. As for the intensity levels, you’ll get eight levels of resistance level with this machine. Of course, it would be amazing if there were more intensity levels, but this is fine, according to the price.

This Exerpeutic 900XL is overall a user-friendly exercise machine at a reasonable price point.

Buying Guide

Recumbent bikes are workout machines that you use for low-impact workouts. And when choosing such a device, you have to look out for a few things. Although there are bikes with higher prices and features, there are also pretty affordable bikes. In the end, it’s your call; you’ll be the person who is going to use these bikes, and here are a few things you should know.

  • Seat: Unlike upright bikes, most of the recumbent cycles have a more comfortable and wide seat. These seats are often cushioned or plastic mounted with vents. And most of these machines offer seat adjustment features. So make sure the cycling machine you are buying has a comfortable seat and decent seat adjustment.
  • Weight limit: All the workout machines have a weight capacity. And the machines themselves are made with materials that can hold this weight pressure. Most recumbent cycles have a weight limit of around 300 lbs, but it varies depending on the manufacturer and price.
  • Height Range: Another important thing to watch out for is the height levels. It can be very uncomfortable and unsafe if you try to use a machine that doesn’t fit you. Most machines with adjustable seats have an inseam range which is the space between the seat and the pedal if I put it. Also, make sure your inseam matches the inseam range of the device.
  • Resistance levels: Resistance levels are the difficulty levels that are created with the help of tension or friction. These are added to the exercise machines so that the user can select from various options and difficulties. The higher the resistance level numbers are, the higher options there are for you to choose. Usually, devices with higher prices have greater resistance levels. And budget-friendly devices have the opposite of that, a few levels.
  • Price: Of course, when you are spending money on a workout machine, you’ll check the price. Most people select or search their workout machines according to the budget they have. And it’s no rocket science; the more budget you have, the better recumbent bike you’ll get, most of the time.
  • Other features: There are other features as well in a cycling machine that you can check out. They are transportation wheels, bottle holders, device holders, speakers, and many more. Among them, make sure the machine has transportation wheels; if not, moving the machine can become a pain for you.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Question)

Recumbent bikes are low-impact cardiovascular workout machines. These machines allow you have cycling motion workouts without stressing out your knees and joints.

A recumbent bike is designed to let you sit back in a reclined position similar to the seating position found on many office chairs. It’s very comfortable for long rides because it allows your body weight to be distributed over a large area instead of focusing on your hands or feet. If you have joint pain from sitting upright all day at work, this might be the perfect solution for you!

Recumbent exercise bikes are great for your knees and joints, irrespective of age and gender. Recumbent bike training is better than upright bike riding when it comes to knee health.

These cycling machines are also great for rehabilitation programs. These exercise devices are easy on your knees and joints, and you can even have a long workout session. So if you are looking for a workout machine that you can enjoy without knee pain, a recumbent bike is the best bet.

Calories burnt on a workout machine depend on various factors. That includes body weight, workout pace, and resistance level. A recumbent bike is no different, but we can guess the average calories an average person might burn using this machine.

An average person with around 120 pounds weight would likely burn around 170 calories an hour at a slower pace. And the calories count can go up to 500 depending on different conditions and workout intensity.

Conclusion

Recumbent cycling machines are an awesome alternative to cycling IRL or even to the upright bike. It’s a great indoor exercise machine that goes easy on your knees and gives you a proper workout. So suffer no more with joints pain or muscle stress of biking or intense workout. This recumbent biking machine is here to help you out.

And on the list mentioned above, we’ve brought some of the best recumbent cycling machines. So here we showed you the features and specifications of the top five devices and mentioned what’s special about them.

And we hope the will help you get your desired exercise machine without much hassle. Work out! Be fit, without pain!

2 thoughts on “5 Best Recumbent Exercise Bike Reviews with Buying Guide and FAQ”

  1. Hi,
    It’s been really a nice and interesting piece of content to read and hats off to your collection related to the Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes. Thanks! for sharing such stuff with us.
    We are also provide services and blogs related to Lifespan Fitness C3-Dt3 Under Desk Bike, Lifespan Tr1200 Dt7 Treadmill Desk, Fitness Equipment Store and Fitness Bike Desk C3-DT7.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top