The Best Budget Exercise Bikes of 2025, Expert-Tested and Trainer-Approved

Why We Like It

OK, so the Connect EX-5’s near-$1,200 MSRP may not immediately place it among the best budget home gym equipment, but we still hold it as our top affordable exercise bike since the actual cost is regularly discounted below this metric. At the time of this writing, Echelon is offering the Connect EX-5 for $799.99. However, don’t fear that you’re not getting your money’s worth with this impressive cardio machine.

Our tester, a certified personal trainer, rates their workout experience at 4 out of 5, stating, “It’s a smooth ride, and I appreciate the well-cushioned saddle. Plus, the pedals are compatible with SPD clips, too, if you prefer to wear cycling-specific footwear during workouts.”

At 129 pounds, the Connect EX-5 is fairly lightweight, although our tester does admit that the weight distribution can make maneuvering the bike into place a bit of a challenge. “I rate the portability at 4 out of 5, though, since there are front transport wheels to help with getting everything set up.”

The Connect EX-5 exercise bike does not feature an on-bike display console but does feature a convenient media holder that can comfortably house both smartphones and medium-sized tablets. We also appreciate that this device holder flips 180 degrees for off-bike viewing — perfect for taking advantage of the Echelon Fit app’s library of live classes and on-demand workouts.

You can also pair your Connect EX-5 to the accompanying app for automatic resistance controls during your streamed sessions. Given that you’re required to provide your own Bluetooth-compatible device, though, as well as the $39.99 monthly subscription fee, we rate the tech capabilities at 3.5 out of 5. If you’d prefer a built-in console for streaming demands, we recommend opting for the Echelon Connect EX-8s exercise bike, which features a massive 24-inch HD touchscreen (albeit for nearly $2,800).

Good for: Athletes wanting a durable exercise bike that can be paired to an accompanying app for on-demand training programs.

Why We Like It

Studies report that sprint interval training with the best air bikes can elicit positive cardiorespiratory adaptations and engaging full-body workouts in a time-efficient nature. (2) As one of the foundational silhouettes from the category, the AssaultBike Classic from Assault Fitness earns its spot amongst the best affordable exercise bikes thanks to its approachable $749 price tag and well-rounded build quality.

Kate Meier, BarBend editorial team member and certified personal trainer, has owned an AssaultBike Classic — previously marketed as the Assault AirBike — for a while and still commends its durability. “I purchased my AssaultBike used from a nearby CrossFit gym,” she states in reference to her 4-out-of-5 durability rating. “While there is some noticeable wear and tear cosmetically, it still functions as efficiently as ever. You can tackle full-body workouts with ease even after all these years.”

Our one tester also rates the workout experience at 4.2 out of 5 and appreciates the user-friendly LCD monitor that clearly displays your workout metrics like calories burned, time, wattage, and more. “While the majority of users will use this bike in a manual mode, the console does have seven preset programs to choose from with clear buttons to activate each training module,” they add.

Naturally, though, the LCD console is limited in its tech capabilities, and there are no other digital adjustments to speak of — your intensity is dictated by your training effort. As such, we score the tech capabilities at a modest 3 out of 5. If you’re in need of a more digital workout experience, we recommend something like the Echelon Connect EX-5.

The AssaultBike Classic is constructed with a heavy-duty steel frame capable of supporting up to 300 pounds. While our tester did notice some side-to-side rocking during high-intensity interval training, they stated that the overall experience is still plenty stable.

Finally, it’s no secret that air bikes do not facilitate a quiet ride. The fan blades can be loud during workouts, making these machines less ideal for those trying to limit decibels during training. If you need a quieter setup, consider a bike with magnetic resistance such as the NordicTrack X24.

Good for: Air bike enthusiasts wanting a full-body cardio workout atop a durable, well-built machine.

Read our full Assault AirBike Review.

Why We Like It

If you’re tight on funds and available space, the best compact exercise equipment can often be a worthwhile category to look through. While exercise bikes are traditionally more space-saving than other cardio machines like treadmills or rowers, there are some foldable profiles that can help you make the most of your limited floor plan. Of these bikes, we recommend the Marcy Foldable Upright Exercise Bike for budget-minded buyers.

At just $179.99, this folding exercise bike earns a 5-out-of-5 value rating from our tester, a certified personal trainer. Plus, they admire the durability that’s baked into this foldable frame design. “I’m surprised that such a small exercise bike can support athletes up to 250 pounds,” they note in reference to their 5-out-of-5 durability rating. “It’s plenty stable when training through different intervals, and I’ve even adopted this profile as my go-to for warm-ups and cool-downs.”

In addition to the foldable frame, this Marcy Fitness offering earns a 4 out of 5 for footprint and portability thanks to its front transport wheels and lightweight design. At just 37 pounds, you can easily pick this machine up and store it in a nearby closet when not in use.

While this cheap exercise bike is one of the best folding exercise bikes, we do admit that the in-training features are somewhat lacking when compared to other high-end silhouettes. For one, you’re limited to just eight resistance levels, which limits how challenging your workouts can be. Additionally, the LCD display is rather basic with no preset programs to choose from. “It’s battery-powered, as well,” notes our tester, “So be prepared to buy a pack of AA batteries alongside your fitness equipment purchase.”

If you’re more interested in a budget-friendly exercise bike with available programming, consider one with a built-in tablet holder such as the YOSUDA YB001R or Echelon Connect EX-5.

Good for: Individuals looking for a storage-ready exercise bike for indoor cycling workouts.

Read our full Marcy Foldable Exercise Bike Review.

Why We Like It

OK, so the Peloton Bike is one of the most recognizable exercise bikes on the market thanks to its popular on-demand workouts and engaging roster of onscreen instructors. Unfortunately, though, Peloton bikes can cost over $1,400, and that’s not including the additional $44 monthly subscription fee of the Peloton All-Access membership. If you’d rather save some coin and invest in just the Peloton fitness app, this Sunny Health & Fitness bike can be an excellent pairing.

While you don’t get the on-machine display available with the Peloton Bike, you can still set up this SF-B1002 exercise bike in front of any compatible display with ease. Our tester rates the portability at 4 out of 5, stating, “The front transport wheels and lightweight design allow me to quickly roll this bike in front of my monitor for a DIY streaming setup.” From there, you simply follow along to your chosen workout and adjust the friction resistance system in accordance with your instructor’s callouts.

We mention the friction resistance system — where a leather pad rubs against the quiet 49-pound flywheel — for multiple reasons. For one, this resistance type can allow for fine-tuned intensities more so than a preset difficulty found on some of the best magnetic exercise bikes. That said, though, the constant rubbing can lead to the leather pad wearing out over time, which will call for some maintenance and upkeep. If you’d rather forgo these repairs, we recommend sticking to a magnetic exercise bike like the Schwinn IC4 exercise bike.

The SF-B1002 exercise bike features an adjustable saddle as well as a multi-grip handlebar setup, giving you a range of accommodating positions perfect for tackling your spin sessions. While our tester rates the ergonomics at 4 out of 5, they score the comfort at 3 out of 5 given the dimensions of the narrower seat. “While it’s stable and supportive, it does take some getting used to,” they note. “If you’re constantly getting in and out of the saddle during sessions, though, it’s not a completely uncomfortable setup.”

Good for: Peloton enthusiasts wanting to train alongside the app without investing in the brand’s dedicated exercise bike.

Read our full Sunny Health & Fitness Exercise Bike Review.

Why We Like It

For those looking to really save on home gym equipment, there are plenty of capable exercise bikes under the $500 threshold offering worthwhile resistance systems and comfortable ergonomics for regular training needs. In our opinion, the YOSUDA YB001R is one of the best exercise bikes under $500 thanks to its lightweight, portable frame, multiyear warranty and easy assembly process.

Our tester, a certified personal trainer, had no issues in getting this cheap exercise bike unboxed and put together. “Once you ensure you have every part — some customers have said they’ve experienced missing components — the assembly instructions are easy to read and well-detailed,” they state in reference to their 4-out-of-5 assembly rating. “I’d be confident in stating most could handle this build.”

When piecing together this sub-$500 exercise bike, though, we do recommend changing out the included saddle for a more comfortable seat. In testing, we found the padding to be somewhat rigid and flimsy, resulting in a 3.5-out-of-5 scoring form our tester. “Even after a few workouts, you can clearly see that the foam has lost its shape,” they add.

Despite the seat dilemmas, you can expect a quiet, smooth riding experience as you toggle through the micro-adjustable levels of magnetic resistance. Plus, the YB100R comes equipped with an LCD monitor for tracking workout stats like time, calories burned, distance, and more. The setup is somewhat basic, though, and you’re still in charge of dialing in your desired resistance setting. Accordingly, we rate the available tech at 2 out of 5.

This YOSUDA indoor cycling bike does, however, feature a built-in device holder for DIY streaming setups. “I’d be wary of ramping up for an HIIT workout while my phone was set in the holder, though,” notes our tester. “The braces are made of cheap plastic and feel less secure than other setups I’ve tried.” For a more locked-in media shelf, consider the Echelon Connect EX-5.

Good for: Athletes wanting a high-quality exercise bike under the $500 threshold.

Read our full YOSUDA Exercise Bike Review.

Why We Like It

If you’re in need of a compact, space-saving exercise bike to fit within your tight training quarters, consider the Sharper Image Space Saving Stationary Bike. As one of the best exercise bikes for small spaces, this impressive machine looks more like a briefcase than a cardio machine. Plus, the bike folds up to a footprint of 1.24 square feet, roughly the equivalent of a standard floor tile.

Our tester, a certified personal trainer, rates the footprint and portability at 5 out of 5 thanks to these compact dimensions and maneuverable profile. “You can easily wheel this around your house thanks to the front transport wheels, and I also appreciate the square design that can fit neatly under your desk for pedaling during work hours,” they state.

Speaking of cycling while you work, our tester rates the noise output of this Sharper Image exercise bike at 5 out of 5. The magnetic resistance operates at a soft hum across its eight available levels, which can be perfect for training while trying to tend to emails and Zoom calls (or listening to your favorite podcast).

This Sharper Image exercise bike is, essentially, a seat overtop a flywheel. There are no adjustable handlebars or a front display console (or any display, for that matter), making this less ideal for high-intensity spin sessions or following along to on-demand programming via the best workout apps. Accordingly, we rate the tech at 1 out of 5. “There is a convenient cutout for storing your water bottle and small necessities, though,” adds our tester. If you’re interested in a more traditional indoor cycling setup at a comparable price point, we recommend the SF-B1002 from Sunny Health & Fitness.

Lastly, our tester commends the assembly process because, well, there is no assembly required. We rate the setup at 5 out of 5 because you simply need to unbox the unit, unfold the stabilizing legs and pedals, raise the seat, and get into training. Then, simply repeat the process in reverse order and wheel the profile into a corner until your next workout.

Good for: Individuals wanting an exercise bike that won’t take up a lot of space.

Why We Like It

For athletes looking for a comfortable setup, or those looking to lessen the in-training impact felt across their joints, the best recumbent bikes can offer effective low-impact training in a cozier body positioning, according to studies. (3) If you’re shopping on a budget for these reclined silhouettes, we recommend the Schwinn 230. Its contoured seat is vented for added breathability and comfort, and our tester, a certified personal trainer, says the adjustable seat’s rail slider system is easy to fine-tune for that perfect length between your hips and pedals.

“I’m a taller individual standing over 6 feet, so finding a comfortable exercise bike can sometimes be a challenge,” adds our tester. “Thankfully, the Schwinn 230’s slide rail is lengthy enough to fit my tall frame. I rate the adjustability at a conservative 3.5 out of 5, though, since you cannot adjust the contouring of the seat itself.”

To add to the recumbent bike benefits available with this machine, the Schwinn 230 features a 5.5-inch segmented LCD display equipped with 13 different workout programs. Unfortunately, though, you do need to be mindful of your training areas lighting — the LCD screen is not backlit for easier viewing. The included tablet shelf also covers the LCD console, essentially rendering it useless if you’re following along to some of the best cycling apps. Accordingly, we rate the available tech at 3 out of 5. If you want a recumbent bike with a more athlete-friendly console, consider the Sole LCR.

Of course, recumbent bikes are going to require more available space given their stretched dimensions. Thankfully, though, our tester notes that maneuvering this machine in and out for training is a simple endeavor, rating the Schwinn 230 at 4 out of 5 for portability. “I can comfortably manage the 80-pound machine, and the front transport wheels roll easily over different flooring surfaces,” they note.

As a final tidbit, we do recommend keeping this bike near an available outlet. According to our tester, the power cord is rather short. Other cheap exercise bikes, like the Marcy Foldable Upright Exercise Bike, feature battery-powered consoles and can be placed wherever you feel.

Good for: Athletes wanting the comfort benefits of a recumbent bike without spending too much.

Read our full Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike Review.

Why We Like It

Perhaps your busy schedule doesn’t give you some allotted breaks for training. The Cubii Move can be excellent for office workouts thanks to its compact dimensions that fit easily under your standard desk height of 29 to 30 inches. (4) Plus, the flywheel revolutions are whisper quiet, according to our tester, meaning there’s less background noise to distract you from incoming messages, pending meetings, and that all-too-common email notification ping.

Our tester, who rates the noise factor at 5 out of 5, says they could easily tend to their daily work tasks while still getting in a worthwhile lower-body workout. “I had no issues with keeping focus, even during team meetings,” they add. “It’s a practically silent exercise bike.”

We also like the portability of this under-desk setup, scoring the Cubii Move at 5 out of 5 for the category. At just 17.6 pounds, you can comfortably move this in and out of position, and the fact that the profile is (essentially) a pair of pedals, makes it a more intriguing home office option than some of the best under-desk treadmills.

However, our tester rates the ergonomics at 3 out of 5 given that you cannot adjust the pitch of the pedals themselves. “To me, they felt a little awkward, almost engaging my ankles more so than my legs,” they note. “You can likely adjust this feeling with a higher or lower seat, but that’s dependent on your home office setup.”

The Cubii Move does feature a built-in display for tracking key workout metrics. Naturally, though, these metrics can be difficult to read during sessions given the machine’s under-desk location. If you want to cycle with a front display, it may be best to opt for a traditional budget-friendly exercise bike like the YOSUDA YB001R. Of course, though, you’d lose the ability to store your machine at your feet.

Good for: Time-crunched athletes wanting to train while they tend to normal office duties.

Read our full Cubii Move Review.