The design of an upright exercise bike is more similar to a regular bicycle compared to other options. The pedals are located under the seat, so the posture is as close as possible to the one the human body takes when riding a bicycle. The main supports are the handlebars and the saddle, which provides a high level of load on the muscles of the abs, buttocks, shoulder girdle and legs. The list of advantages of vertical devices begins with an affordable price. Some budget models can be bought for less than 10,000 or even 5,000 rubles. Another plus is the compact size, thanks to the location of the pedals. And among the serious disadvantages we can only name a heavy load on the knees and spine, which is why such exercise bikes are not suitable for every user.
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How to choose the right treadmill for your home
Portable
A portable exercise bike or bike is a model that has minimal dimensions and a weight of up to 5 kg. Such devices, like mini steppers, take up almost no space in the apartment and are easily transported to a new place. On the other hand, the device has neither a seat nor a steering wheel - the training person will have to sit on a chair, armchair or sofa. This type of exercise machine is convenient to take with you to work, on a business trip or on a trip. They can be used by ordinary users, elderly people and children.
Other advantages include low price, convenience and the ability to take almost any comfortable position during training. The downside is its low efficiency due to the lack of fixation of body position and difficulties with evenly distributing the load on both legs.
Folding
A folding home exercise machine is structurally similar to a portable one. But, unlike the “bike”, it comes with a seat and steering wheel. The main advantage is the ability to fold the frame for easy storage or movement, which makes such exercise bikes more suitable for small apartments. When folded, the equipment can be stored in a corner, closet or pantry.
Despite their compact size, folding devices have a good service life. True, their maximum user weight rarely exceeds 100 kg. The cost of the simulator is also noticeably higher compared to other types of models with similar characteristics.
Bicycle ergometer
Another type of cycling trainer is a bicycle ergometer. Models of this type are equipped with more effective and functional systems for measuring training indicators. Careful monitoring of the athlete’s physical condition using special programs and sensors allows you to more accurately set the load level. And, therefore, making the process itself more efficient.
Most bicycle ergometers are equipped with an electromagnetic load system, but they can also be magnetic. During the workout, the same muscle groups are loaded as when using conventional exercise bikes of the same type. But due to their higher price and increased control, they are more often chosen by professional athletes than by casual users.
- Smartphones and tablets
Samsung Gear Fit 2 test: fitness tracker with OLED display and GPS module
Rehabilitation exercise bikes
An exercise bike for rehabilitation should be included in a separate group. The technique allows people who have problems with the musculoskeletal system, as well as patients who have suffered a stroke or endoprosthetics, to restore lost functions. Sometimes the same devices help people with Parkinson's disease or cerebral palsy train.
The main difference between the rehabilitation simulator is the ability to smoothly regulate the load and set almost any training mode. Another plus is the ability to keep your back relaxed, which is not always possible with other types of models.
The design of exercise machines is usually the same as that of horizontal models, but with wider pedals. Most models have control panels with large inscriptions and buttons, durable latches and comfortable handles. And, although they are often purchased for rehabilitation centers, you can choose this option for home.
Rating of TOP 10 exercise bikes for home
I analyzed the characteristics of most models of exercise bikes from different sports brands. In my opinion, the rating should look like this:
- Hasttings Spider SB300 upright exercise bike;
- Upright exercise bike Evo Fitness Spirit;
- Upright exercise bike SPIRIT CU800;
- Portable exercise bike BRADEX SF0077 Aerob New;
- Upright exercise bike BRADEX SF0057 Splash;
- Upright exercise bike Carbon Fitness U304;
- Oxygen Jet Star bicycle ergometer;
- Hasttings Spider SB400 bicycle ergometer;
- Bicycle ergometer Oxygen Cardio Concept IV HRC+;
- Bicycle ergometer AMMITY Dream DB 40.
Let's take a closer look at the characteristics and features of each of the listed devices.
Upright exercise bike Hasttings Spider SB300
The device is ideal for home training; it works autonomously and does not require a network connection. The magnetic system is characterized by silent operation and ensures a smooth ride during training.
The exercise bike is equipped with 8 load levels. Pulse measurement sensors are located on the handles of the device. The screen displays information about training parameters: calories burned, distance traveled, speed, number of revolutions. The exercise machine can support a user weighing up to 125 kg.
| Type | Upright exercise bike |
| Maximum user weight, kg | 125 |
| Number of load levels | 8 |
Price
from 20,890 to 24,990 rub.
- presence of a cardiac sensor;
- simple assembly;
- affordable price;
- multifunctionality.
- not found.
After pregnancy, I decided to get in shape, but there was no way to go to the gym. The decision was made to purchase this exercise bike. I've been using it for about 3 months. It is convenient that there is a heart rate monitor; the display shows complete information about training parameters and the state of the body during sports. In a couple of months, with its help I managed to lose 5 kg.
A short overview is available in the video
Upright exercise bike Hasttings Spider SB300
Upright exercise bike Evo Fitness Spirit
The magnetic trainer can support a user weighing up to 120 kg. The device has a pleasant, aesthetic appearance and is made of high-quality materials. The magnetic loading system in tandem with the 8 kg flywheel guarantees smooth movements and even load distribution.
The exercise bike is equipped with an LCD screen, which displays the main characteristics of the exercise. The device displays the user's movement speed, number of revolutions, pulse, and training time. The athlete can choose any of 8 load modes.
The saddle of the exercise machine is adjustable in different directions, which allows you to adjust it to your needs. The pedals are non-slip, which ensures a comfortable workout. The device is equipped with transport wheels and surface unevenness compensators.
| Type | Upright exercise bike |
| Maximum user weight, kg | 120 |
| Number of load levels | 8 |
Price
from 15,890 to 16,000 rubles.
- affordable price;
- ease of assembly;
- high-quality case materials;
- compact.
- not found.
Due to a busy work schedule, it is not possible to visit fitness centers. It was decided to purchase an exercise bike and opted for the Evo Fitness Spirit. The device is quite functional, with a wide range of programs and additional options. Externally, it is stylish, relatively small in size, and does not take up too much space in the room.
Expert opinion
Yulia Dukhanina
Ask a Question
For an exercise bike to help you lose excess weight, it is important to train every other day. This frequency will strengthen the muscles, give them a rest, and you will not feel like a squeezed lemon.
You can learn more about the device in the video.
Upright exercise bike Evo Fitness Spirit
Upright exercise bike SPIRIT CU800
An exercise bike with an electromagnetic system does not require additional maintenance. The device is equipped with 40 load levels. There are touch sensors that allow you to measure your pulse. The simulator operates silently and smoothly. The reinforced frame is made of high quality steel, and the body is coated with polymer paint. The LED screen has a pleasant LED glow. The software is equipped with many useful programs.
| Type | Upright exercise bike |
| Maximum user weight, kg | 204 |
| Number of load levels | 40 |
Price
from RUB 1,258,990 to RUB 129,000.
- multifunctional;
- many training programs;
- compact;
- comfortable saddle.
- not detected.
I have been using this device for about three months. I liked the look, it was quite small in size and fit perfectly into the empty space of the room. The saddle can be adjusted, which is very convenient since several people in the family use the exercise machine. There are a lot of programs, I still haven’t had time to try them all.
A short overview is available in the video
Upright exercise bike SPIRIT CU800
Portable exercise bike BRADEX SF0077 Aerob New
The portable exercise machine is ideal for home workouts. The light weight of the device, only 3 kg, will allow you to easily transport it to any place in the apartment. The device is characterized by autonomous operation and an inertial load system.
| Type | Portable exercise bike |
| Maximum user weight, kg | – |
| Number of load levels | – |
Price
from 1,340 to 2,309 rub.
- compact;
- stable;
- low price;
- light weight.
- noisy work.
The simulator is not suitable for full-fledged training with a heavy load. But, I use it to warm up before my main workout. I pedal and lift small dumbbells at the same time. This device is more suitable for older people with joint problems.
A short overview can be seen in the video
Portable exercise bike BRADEX SF0077 Aerob New
Upright exercise bike BRADEX SF0057 Splash
A convenient, compact exercise bike is perfect for home use. The device is easy to use, so it is suitable even for older people. The screen displays the main training parameters: distance, exercise time, speed, calories burned. The exercise bike is equipped with wide pedals for comfortable foot fixation and a comfortable saddle.
| Type | Upright exercise bike |
| Maximum user weight, kg | 100 |
| Number of load levels | – |
Price
from 4,640 to 7,289 rub.
- low price;
- ease of assembly;
- compact.
- No.
A good trainer that takes up minimal space. For its low price it does the job well. Assembly of the device took about 40 minutes.
Expert opinion
Yulia Dukhanina
Ask a Question
Intense exercise on an exercise bike is not recommended for pregnant women. For them, classes should be carried out only with the permission of a doctor.
You can learn more about the exercise bike by watching the video
Upright exercise bike BRADEX SF0057 Splash
Upright exercise bike Carbon Fitness U304
The magnetic trainer can support a user weighing up to 140 kg. The 6 kg flywheel guarantees smooth running and even load distribution. The device is equipped with 32 load modes.
The steering wheel is adjustable, the seat is adjustable in different directions, which ensures a comfortable fit. There are heart rate sensors and several modes for adjusting the pedal belts. The display shows the main characteristics of the workout.
| Type | Upright exercise bike |
| Maximum user weight, kg | 140 |
| Number of load levels | 8 |
Price
from 16,890 to 17,000 rubles.
- comfortable adjustable seat;
- smooth running of the flywheel;
- silent;
- shows exact parameters.
- not detected.
I've been using the trainer for a long time. Now I’m using the third load level, there are 8 of them in total. The saddle is adjustable in different directions. This allows you to choose a comfortable fit. It’s cool that there are floor unevenness compensators, because my surface “walks” a little. Transport rollers allow you to easily move the device.
A short overview is available on video
Upright exercise bike Carbon Fitness U304
Bicycle ergometer Oxygen Jet Star
The device can withstand up to 150 kg of weight. The 9 kg flywheel ensures smooth running and silent operation. The straps on the pedals are adjustable, allowing you to securely hold your foot on them. The comfortable seat is adjustable vertically and horizontally. The 5.5-inch display displays information about the progress of the workout, 12 training programs are built-in, and there are 4 programs for heart rate training.
| Type | Upright exercise bike |
| Maximum user weight, kg | 150 |
| Number of load levels | 32 |
Price
from 27,890 to 28,000 rubles.
- quiet operation;
- high-quality assembly;
- accurate heart rate monitor;
- smooth operation.
- not found.
I was immediately drawn to the design of the exercise bike. Works well, has a large number of built-in programs. I work out at the 16th load mode out of 32. My feet are fixed well on the straps, the pedals rotate smoothly and softly.
A detailed review is available on video
Bicycle ergometer Oxygen Jet Star
Hasttings Spider SB400 bicycle ergometer
The body of the exercise bike is made of high quality plastic. The elements of the device are wear-resistant, heat- and frost-resistant. Low noise operation is ensured by the “ECB Intellectual” system. Manufacturers have thought through the design of the simulator so that it fits into any interior.
The device is equipped with 24 load modes and can store the data of four users. The display shows all important training parameters. To monitor your heart rate, you can exercise with a wireless cardio belt. To ensure a comfortable workout, manufacturers have equipped the device with floor compensators, transport rollers, and adjustable saddle and handlebars.
| Type | Vertical bicycle ergometer |
| Maximum user weight, kg | 135 |
| Number of load levels | 24 |
Price
from 27,540 to 32,990 rub.
- high-quality assembly;
- no plastic smell;
- seat adjustment;
- transport rollers.
- not detected.
I have been using an exercise bike for six months. I did not find any shortcomings during operation. I like that there are many training programs. My endurance has increased, and I am gradually increasing the training time. The device has a nice design and fits well into the interior. I have it in the corner of the room, it doesn’t bother anyone.
Expert opinion
Yulia Dukhanina
Ask a Question
You must determine the duration of your workout on an exercise bike for yourself. Your age, level of physical fitness, and state of health play an important role here. On average, a workout lasts 40 minutes to 1 hour.
A short overview can be seen in the video
Hasttings Spider SB400 bicycle ergometer
Bicycle ergometer Oxygen Cardio Concept IV HRC+
Thanks to the reinforced design of the simulator, it can withstand up to 150 kg. The 10 kg flywheel ensures smooth running and quiet operation. The straps on the pedals are adjustable, so your foot can be secured comfortably. The simulator comes pre-installed with 12 programs. They train endurance, speed, and muscle strengthening. It is possible to create an individual program.
| Type | Vertical bicycle ergometer |
| Maximum user weight, kg | 150 |
| Number of load levels | 32 |
Price
from 29,890 to 30,000 rubles.
- easy to assemble;
- does not creak;
- works quietly;
- smooth pedal travel.
- none.
I assembled the exercise bike myself according to the instructions. In principle, assembly does not take much time, although I had to tinker a bit with the steering wheel mount. The kit includes a heart rate sensor for the chest; I really appreciated this option. There are many training programs, so the training is interesting and effective even when practicing at home. It works quietly, which is important to me.
A short overview can be found in the video
Bicycle ergometer Oxygen Cardio Concept IV HRC+
Bicycle ergometer AMMITY Dream DB 40
The exercise bike has a powerful frame, which creates a feeling of reliability. The device can withstand up to 160 kg of weight. Thoughtful ergonomics and many seat adjustments allow athletes with a height of 1.5-2 meters to exercise. The exercise bike smoothly changes the load, the movements are soft, and in general, the operation of the device is almost silent.
The 7-inch display displays commands entirely in Russian. You can connect a heart rate sensor, headphones to the simulator, and synchronize it with a smartphone. The device is equipped with a ventilation system, 24 load levels, 48 training programs.
| Type | Vertical bicycle ergometer |
| Maximum user weight, kg | 160 |
| Number of load levels | 24 |
Price
from 50,000 to 50,000 rub.
- beautiful appearance;
- stable;
- many programs;
- comfortable saddle;
- seat adjustment.
- not detected.
The exercise bike fits well into the interior of the room and does not look bulky. It's great that you can adjust the seat to suit you. For training, you can choose any of the many built-in programs, or you can create an individual one. You can even listen to music through it.
Bicycle ergometer AMMITY Dream DB 40
Cycle loading: how the body works
Experts suggest that ordinary people should not consider an exercise bike or a bicycle as an ideal workout or salvation from excess weight, but rather approach training as a constant and inevitable means. When you start doing this type of training, you should be prepared for slow results, as well as the need to put in a lot of effort. Ideally, cycling should become regular and constant throughout your life.
ADVICE! An exercise bike should be used as one of the elements of comprehensive work on your form: if the leg muscles experience sufficient load during pedaling, then additional exercises are needed for the abs.
For the correct effect from training, it is extremely important to choose the right training system that will be optimal for a particular case. You should start with short workouts (no more than 20 minutes in a gentle mode), and after a successful start, you can move on to hour-long workouts, the task of which is to burn excess fat in the body. But most often, medium workouts are used (25-35 minutes), which allow you to accelerate the circulatory system after strength training.
ADVICE! An individual system of training on an exercise bike should be selected by an experienced trainer for the needs of a particular person, otherwise they may be ineffective, and in some cases even harmful to the body.
Comparison of the best products
To make it more convenient for you to compare the main parameters of sports equipment for cardio training, I have combined the exercise bikes listed in the rating into a general table.
| Exercise bike model | Type | Max. user weight, kg | Number of load levels | Peculiarities | Price, rub |
| Hastings Spider SB300 | Upright exercise bike | 125 | 8 | There is a heart rate sensor mounted on the steering wheel that measures your heart rate. | 20 890-24 990 |
| Evo Fitness Spirit | Upright exercise bike | 120 | 8 | The seat is adjustable in all directions | 15 890-16 000 |
| SPIRIT CU800 | Upright exercise bike | 204 | 40 | Electromagnetic load system | 128 990-129 000 |
| BRADEX SF0077 Aerob New | Portable exercise bike | – | – | Inertia loading system, pedals have straps | 1 340-2 309 |
| BRADEX SF0057 Splash | Upright exercise bike | 100 | – | The saddle is vertically adjustable | 4 640-7 289 |
| Carbon Fitness U304 | Upright exercise bike | 140 | 8 | There is a heart rate sensor mount on the steering wheel, a cup holder, and straps on the pedals. | 16 890- 17 000 |
| Oxygen Jet Star | Upright exercise bike | 150 | 32 | 19 workout programs | 27 890-28 000 |
| Hastings Spider SB400 | Vertical bicycle ergometer | 135 | 24 | 24 built-in programs, the ability to connect a wireless heart rate sensor | 27 540-32 990 |
| Oxygen Cardio Concept IV HRC+ | Vertical bicycle ergometer | 150 | 32 | 19 training programs, saddle adjustment in different directions | 29 890-30 000 |
| AMMITY Dream DB 40 | Vertical bicycle ergometer | 160 | 24 | 76 workout programs | 50 000-50 000 |
Now among these representatives we can distinguish the best of the best.
What muscles are involved?
The following muscles of the body are involved in the training process:
- Lower legs (calf muscles and hamstrings). These muscles work when the foot is extended while the pedal is pressed.
- Upper legs (biceps and quadriceps, psoas). These are the largest muscles, and the greatest load falls on the quadriceps, whose task is to press the pedal with force. Tension is felt especially when lifting with a load. Conversely, the biceps work by lifting the leg up along with the pedal.
- Buttocks and quadriceps muscles . These muscles work in pairs and their task is to keep the body in the correct position during the exercise.
- Hip flexor. It allows you to straighten your hips and bend your leg at the knee. If pain begins in this area, then you should stop training.
- Press . Strong abdominal muscles ensure normal riding. Also, the purpose of the press is to keep your back straight and your body in the correct position.
- Arms and shoulders.
Best lists
All of the listed exercise bikes from the rating deserve to be called the best. Some devices can support up to 200 kg. Almost all exercise machines are equipped with several load modes and have built-in training programs. Some devices have additional stands, speakers, and connection to a smartphone. Among the presented ratings, I have identified the three best exercise bikes according to various parameters.
The best exercise machine in terms of price-quality ratio - Evo Fitness Spirit
The magnetic trainer can support up to 120 kg of weight. Together with an 8 kg flywheel, it guarantees smooth movements and even distribution of the load. The LCD screen shows the user’s movement speed, number of revolutions, pulse, and training time. 8 load modes available. The seat is adjustable vertically and horizontally. The pedals do not slip, which ensures a comfortable workout.
Best device for build quality - Hasttings Spider SB300
Due to the magnetic drive system, the device operates silently and smoothly. The exercise bike is equipped with 8 load levels. A heart rate monitor is installed on the handles. The display shows information about the progress of the workout: calories burned, distance traveled, speed, number of revolutions. Thanks to high build quality and the use of the best materials, the machine can support a user weighing up to 125 kg.
The best simulator for convenience and number of training programs - SPIRIT CU800
The exercise bike with an electromagnetic drive system is equipped with 40 load levels. There is a heart rate monitor. The simulator operates silently and smoothly. The reinforced frame is made of high-strength steel. The LED screen has a pleasant LED glow. The software is equipped with many useful training programs.
Types of exercise bikes
Today, more and more new models equipped with additional functions and options are appearing on the market. There are many exercise machines that allow you to exercise in a lying position, which is often necessary during rehabilitation and for therapeutic purposes. In general, all exercise bikes can be divided into several groups:
- The simplest devices with a belt resistance system. Load adjustment depends on belt tension. The disadvantage of this model is the uneven distribution of the load, which negatively affects the joints.
- For more intense workouts, it is recommended to use a block-type resistance machine. Here the load is distributed almost evenly, but such units are quite noisy.
- Magnetic exercise bikes regulate the load using a magnet that moves to the flywheel, creating the desired level of resistance.
- Velo-ellipsoid. It also involves pedaling in the opposite direction to pump up certain muscle groups.
- A bicycle ergometer or electromagnetic exercise machine is powered by the mains.
- Portable exercise bikes. The design of the device contains only pedals and a loading mechanism. Such simulators are mobile and cost less than other types.
An exercise bike used at home provides the same results as in the gym. The device is equipped with a computer to display training results. In addition to recording exercise parameters, the software of most exercise bikes has many built-in programs and options.
Why do you need an exercise bike?
Cycling can effectively strengthen your heart. This is also the main function that an exercise bike performs. The benefits of cardio training for weight loss have long been proven. Therefore, this type of simulator is very popular among those who want to quickly get rid of unnecessary wrinkles.
As a result of active work on the heart, blood vessels and lungs, the overall load on the body increases, as well as its endurance. Thanks to this, a person who regularly exercises on an exercise bike not only loses excess weight, but also strengthens his own health and increases the body’s resistance to negative influences. It has been proven that cardio training reduces the risk of developing hypertension, obesity, atherosclerosis, infections, strengthens bones, joints and muscles, and reduces the negative impact of stress and increased psycho-emotional stress.
But in order to get such an impressive result, you need to know how to use an exercise bike correctly. Benefits and harms for women are present in any type of sports activity. We will talk about the advantages and disadvantages of an exercise bike in this article.
Strengths of an exercise bike
The benefits of working out on a bicycle or exercise bike are many. This simulator has become too simple and familiar for many, so some people neglect the wonderful opportunity to pedal and improve their own health.
Undoubtedly, exercising on a real bicycle and long bicycle rides in the fresh air are more beneficial than exercising on an exercise bike at home or in the gym. But not every one of us can or wants to buy a bicycle. Firstly, modern models are not cheap. Secondly, the bike needs to be stored somewhere, and it requires more space than a modern exercise bike. Thirdly, for daily activities he will need to be constantly taken downstairs and taken back to the apartment, which is not very convenient for most city residents. Fourthly, our climate allows you to enjoy cycling in the fresh air on a very limited number of days a year. In the end, only a lucky few have the real opportunity to ride a bicycle several tens of kilometers every day, and not even in the city, but in the forest or at least in the park.
Well, an exercise bike is always at hand. You can practice on it all year round, regardless of weather conditions. The ability to control the load, convenient operating modes, numerous additional options and capabilities, simplicity, accessibility, efficiency - any modern exercise bike has all these qualities. The benefits and harms from it are incommensurable. If you wisely select a moderate training program and listen to your own body, then there will be no negative consequences from such exercises, only pure benefits.
Features of choosing exercise bikes for home use
The main thing when choosing a simulator is to rely on personal preferences and the desired result. The main criteria by which you can purchase a good exercise bike:
| Flywheel | The greater its weight, the greater the load created during training. For more intense workouts, choose machines with a higher flywheel weight. |
| Dimensions | The unit must fit neatly into the interior and dimensions of the room. You should not take a simulator that will take up all the space. If you have no space at all, consider folding or portable models. |
| User weight | Each exercise bike has a maximum permissible user weight. You need to focus on the heaviest member of the family if the device is purchased by several people. |
| Training programs | Built-in training programs will not only help make training more interesting, but will also allow you to gradually increase the load and complexity of the exercises. |
Also, pay attention to the presence of seat adjustment in different directions. This parameter is especially important if the exercise bike will be used by several people of different heights and builds.
The most popular brands and manufacturers
Exercise bikes for home can be purchased at any sports store or ordered online. The assortment is huge, so users immediately have a question - which sporting goods manufacturing company can they trust?
Famous brands always increase the price, and little-promoted companies are unknown to anyone, although they offer products at an adequate price. Many are biased towards goods produced in Asian countries, believing that European quality is much better, although most European and American companies have long moved their production facilities to China and Taiwan.
If you decide to buy an exercise bike, then pay attention to the following manufacturers.
- Svensson Body Labs. Swedish brand. Specializes in various cardio equipment for amateurs and professionals.
- Hastings. A company from the UK produces sports equipment. It has been known on the domestic market for almost ten years and is trusted by sports fans.
- Kettler. The German company supplies mid- and premium-class sports equipment around the world.
- DFC. The domestic company manufactures exercise bikes and other sports equipment for home and fitness rooms. Production is located in China, Taiwan and Malaysia. The prices are quite affordable.
- Sport Elite. The domestic brand specializes in the production of high-quality home exercise equipment at affordable prices.
- AeroFit. The domestic brand has been supplying professional sports equipment for gyms and home throughout Russia and the CIS countries for more than fifteen years.
- Titan Deutschland GmbH. Manufacturer of rehabilitation and sports equipment from Germany. The products are aimed at disabled people and people suffering from musculoskeletal diseases.
