Take a Seat on The 7 Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes of 2023

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ARE YOU considering a recumbent exercise bike for your fitness journey in 2023? These reclined seat position bikes offer an alternative to traditional upright bikes that's worth exploring for some. If you're seeking a low-impact cardio machine that provides stability and comfort, recumbent bikes are a top choice.

Most recumbent exercise bikes feature a convenient step-through design with wider, well-padded seats, and some models even come with added lumbar support. These exercise bikes are great choices for beginners and seniors, specifically. "A recumbent bike won't push you through a strenuous workout, but it will help you stay active, create lower-body bloodflow, and elevate your heart rate a bit, too," explains Men's Health Fitness Director Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S..

Read more: How Men's Health Thoroughly Tests and Reviews Fitness Products

According to Mathew Forzaglia, NFPT-CPT, a personal trainer in New York, NY, recumbent bikes are also a great starting point for injury rehabilitation. "Recumbent bikes offer a low-impact workout that's ideal for rehabbing from injury and improving range of motion," he explains. "The reclined seat position reduces core tension, alleviating back discomfort and reducing stress on the ankles, knees, and hips."

Men's Health editors have been testing the best recumbent bikes from top brands such as NordicTrack, Life Fitness, and Proform for years now. While we may not have logged as many hours on recumbent models as standard stationary bikes, we've partnered with fitness experts like Forzaglia to bring you a curated list of the very best options. A recumbent bike can be a great fit in a home gym, especially if you're looking for an ultra-relaxing form of cardio that will give your upper body a break.

With a multitude of choices available, ranging from high-tech, feature-packed models to more basic options, we've narrowed it down to the top 7 recumbent exercise bikes suitable for every category, fitness level, and budget. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or a beginner, there's a perfect recumbent bike waiting for you.

Shop our list of the best recumbent exercise bikes of 2023 below.

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Pro C10R

We love that this bike’s oversized, cushioned seat, can be adjusted both horizontally and vertically. Tweak it to your comfort level, then sit down, and get to work.

The audio quality of the two built-in speakers impressed us, especially for a machine that's under $1000. Plus, they're Bluetooth compatible, so you can pop in headphones to listen to a class or music without waking up the rest of your household.

290 Recumbent Bike

While it doesn't have a built-in smart display, the just south of $800 price and other features on this bike make up for it. Plus, you can place your phone or tablet device on the media shelf so you can ride along to on-demand trainer-led classes with real-time coaching.

The padded seat is a huge win in our eyes, and even has ventilation to get the air flowing when things get sweaty down there. We love the feel of the weighted strapped pedals, which work well to keep your feel secure while you ride. Built-in wheels and a relatively lightweight build make the bike the easiest to move around when needed.

It's suitable for tall frames, too. Fitness and Commerce Editor Talene Appleton, NASM, trained an elderly client 6' 3" who rode this bike every day for three years because of how comfortable he found it.

Commercial R35

This bike comes with a 30-day free membership to iFit (then $39/month), so you can stream on-demand interactive trainer-led classes on the 14-inch HD Smart Touchscreen monitor. Without streaming, users can still take advantage of 26 different resistance levels and the comfortable overall design. The auto-resistance feature takes the mental part out of it by letting the bike push you (which is especially great during iFit classes).

Despite the resistance and programming features that allow for a great workout on this bike, we think the best feature is the fan, which auto-adjusts depending on how hard you’re working to keep you cool.

Essential Recumbent Exercise Bike

Keep track of your time, speed, and distance using the digital monitor on this recumbent bike. Its resistance is powered by an adjustable magnetic dial, which allows you to toggle between eight different levels (and is a sophisticated method of resistance at such a cheap price).

For less than $300, it's kind of unbelievable that this machine also comes with a built-in pulse monitor to track your heart rate, so you know just how hard you’re working. There isn't a built in smart display (meaning no pre-programmed workouts, just manual free riding), but there is a shelf for you to place your phone on the monitor so you can stay entertained while pedaling.

SB250 Recumbent Bike

For under $800 (and often on sale for much less), this bike comes loaded with an impressive number of programs to suit a range of fitness levels and preferences. We're talking 12 pre-set programs, 4 custom user programs, 1 body-fat program, 1 watt program, and 5 heart rate programs–meaning you won't run out of options to switch things up.

Comfort is a priority with this bike. The adjustable seat was designed with your back in mind, so you’ll maintain good posture throughout your workout. The walk-thru frame design and easily adjustable seat make it accessible for most shapes, sizes, and levels of mobility, too.

Recumbent Exercise Bike ME-709 with Resistance

Similar to the Peloton, this bike features a magnetic resistance wheel that you can reach down and turn to adjust between eight different levels. It has a small LCD monitor that displays your time, speed, and distance—just the basics.

You don’t have to worry about your feet slipping out of the pedals, as they're weighted to provide maximum support and counterbalance. They have adjustable straps for extra security, too.

Recline Personal

If you not only care about getting in a good workout at home, but also want everything in your home gym to look sleek as hell, consider this high-end steel frame recumbent bike. Before you look at the price (jump scare, we know)—know that this bike is more tech-savvy than most recumbent bikes out there.

You can change your seat posture, up your resistance level, and monitor your heart rate all from controls located right on the handles for easy accessibility. Speakers, located under the seat, produce next-level sound quality that seriously impressed us (and it's Bluetooth compatible). We love the extra-wide pedals, which feature a strap system like that used on a snowboard for quick adjustability and a secure, stable fit.

And, at this price, from multiple immersive workout programs on the live 15.6-inch touchscreen, or pedal through a natural or urban landscape of your choice on the screen

Bonus: You can log directly into your Netflix, Spotify, or YouTube accounts from the built-in display for seamless entertainment.

R618 Recumbent Bike

If you already love tracking your stats through a health tracking app like MyFitnessPal or Explore the World, good news—this bike is compatible with most. So, despite the fact that it isn't integrated with a built-in smart display, you can keep tabs on your progress easily.

The seat is ultra comfortable (it's gel padded), and the angle of the seat back can be adjusted easily via a lever located under the seat. Choose from 29 different workout programs, or just free ride in manual mode at your own pace.

What do buyers say? "Love this bike. The instructions appear to be spot on except for two locations, one was the heart monitor wiring, and the other was the wiring to the computer... I am very pleased with the outcome and ride it a little bit every day," said one amazon.com reviewer.

R30 Recumbent Bike

With a heavy-suty dual post frame, this bike is all about stability. Recumbent bikes are pretty stable to begin with, thanks to the seated nature of the machine. But single-post designs run the risk of tipping over when weight is shifted, especially when users get on or off the machine.

In combination with a low step-through height, this bike is super accessible and easy for low mobility folks to use safely. We also have to call out the seat for its comfort; it's molded to hug your back with a perfect level of lumbar support, and made with mesh to allow for proper ventilation.

Integrity Lifecycle Recumbent Exercise Bike

First things first, the interface on this bike super user-friendly. The LED screen is no-frills, but shows everything you need to know, and is easy to navigate. Meaning you can hop on and get started with your workouts without any fuss. The interface isn't the highlight of this bike–the heart rate monitoring feature is.

Not only can you access heart health stats straight from the screen, but when you buy the bike, you get a Polar heart rate strap included. Oh, and there's more good news. With a beefy 400-lb. weight capacity, it's sturdy and reliable, accommodating users of various sizes and fitness levels.

How to Choose the Best Recumbent Exercise Bike (for You)

Here are some important factors to consider when shopping for a recumbent exercise bike:

Comfort: Comfort is key when using an exercise bike, especially for longer workouts. Look for a bike with a comfortable and adjustable seat, padded handlebars, and ergonomic design to support your body during exercise.

Construction: A sturdy and durable bike is a must-have for safety and long-term use. Check the weight capacity of the bike to ensure it can support your weight and look for bikes that offer a warranty on the frame and parts.

Resistance: Everyone has different fitness levels and goals, but not every bike can cater to everyone's needs. Look for a bike with adjustable resistance levels, allowing you to customize the intensity of your workouts however you choose.

Workout Programs: Some recumbent exercise bikes come with pre-set workout programs, while others may offer a membership-based training app. Consider if having built-in programs is important to you, and if it is, if you want to consider a membership that would allow for a greater library of programs.

Display: The display should be easy to use and show all the essentials: speed, distance, time, and, for some machines, even heart rate. Extra features like a heart rate monitor, Bluetooth connectivity, and USB ports can be nice, so decide if any of those are dealbreakers for you.

Size: Consider the dimensions of the bike, especially if you have limited space. Some bikes come with compact designs and foldable options for easier storage. If you'll need to stow the bike away when not in use, look for a lightweight frame on wheels.

Budget: Set a budget and stick to it. Recumbent exercise bikes come in a range of prices, so it's essential to find one that fits your budget while still meeting your needs.

What Are the Benefits of a Recumbent Exercise Bike?

Recumbent exercise bikes offer a low-impact workout that is easy on your joints while still delivering an effective cardiovascular exercise. What distinguishes them from traditional upright exercise bikes is the supported seat, where you can enjoy an ergonomic position that's easier on the back and joints. Recumbent bikes also offer more stability (and therefore more safety) than upright exercise bikes, making them a good choice for beginners and individuals with limited mobility.

Mathew Forzaglia, NFPT-CPT, explained that these bikes are also perfect for rehabilitation, aiding in injury recovery and improving your range of motion. The recumbent position minimizes core tension, reducing back tightness and minimizing strain on the joints of your ankles, knees, and hips.

Many models have convenient finishes like moving handlebars so users can move their upper body while cycling. They're also quiet, making them suitable for home use, and their compact design allows for easy storage.

Who Is a Recumbent Exercise Bike Good For?

Recumbent exercise bikes are particularly beneficial for special population in need of a supported, moderate mode of cardiovascular exercise. They're ideal for seniors due to their stable seat and low-impact nature, and novice exercisers can use them as a stepping stone to working out on an upright exercise bike.

They're also great for rehabilitation, providing gentle and effective workouts that aid individuals recovering from injuries, surgeries, or those with physical limitations. If you suffer from joint pain, such as knee or hip issues, these bikes offer a comfortable exercise option without added strain.

Why You Can Trust Us

At Men's Health, we take great pride in providing our readers with reliable and trustworthy product recommendations. We believe that our readers deserve the best, which is why we always make sure to conduct thorough research and testing before making any recommendations. Our writers and editors thoughtfully select experts for collaboration on product recommendations, and are also experts in their own right, using their informed opinions to select products and ensuring that our content is of the highest quality.

Our product recommendations are purely editorial, and while we may receive free products to test and review, we only recommend the products we are most impressed by. We never let retailers or public relations contacts dictate our content or product coverage. Which is why you can trust us to provide you with reliable and unbiased product recommendations.

How We Selected the Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes

For the past two years, we've consulted with Men's Health's fitness editors, including Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S., and Talene Appleton, NASM, as well as expert fitness trainers from both MH's Advisory board and MH's Strength in Diversity Initiative on the best exercise recumbent bikes on the market. They spent months of hands-on time testing and evaluating recumbent exercise bikes from top fitness brands on durability, quality, and training efficiency to bring you this list of products we can honestly recommend.

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