It can be difficult to stay active if you’re confined to a cubicle or stuck on a couch recovering from injury, but even a little physical activity can go a long way. Unlike the best exercise bikes, these models can easily slot under a desk or sit in front of a sofa, providing a convenient, low-impact way to keep their blood pumping at home or in the office.
Because sedentary behavior can increase the risk for several major chronic diseases, the light-intensity physical activity these bikes provide can be invaluable for seniors, those rehabilitating after an injury, or anyone with limited mobility. (1)(2) Some models work to emulate the feel of their full-size siblings with integrated flywheels and magnetic resistance, while others adopt a more streamlined profile by relying on friction. We researched, combed user reviews, and put our feet to work to find the best mini exercise bikes. Take a look at our picks below.
The Best Mini Exercise Bikes of 2024
- Best Mini Exercise Bike Overall: Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike
- Best Budget Mini Exercise Bike: Himaly Mini Exercise Bike
- Best Mini Exercise Bike for Beginners: Vive Under Desk Bike
- Best Portable Mini Exercise Bike: Hausse Portable Exercise Pedal Bike
- Best Adjustable Mini Exercise Bike: Vaunn Medical Under Desk Pedal Exerciser
- Best Under Desk Mini Exercise Bike: DeskCycle Under Desk Bike
- Best Lightweight Mini Exercise Bike: Wakeman Fitness Portable Under Desk Stationary Pedal Machine
How We Tested and Chose the Best Mini Exercise Bikes
BarBend’s squad of athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and certified personal trainers know what it’s like to get sidelined due to an injury or an especially hectic week at work. When testing mini exercise bikes, we looked for machines that could cater to users with limited mobility in addition to those who simply want a way to stay active while seated.
We used our multi-point system to score these bikes on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) across seven categories, including portability, adjustability, and value. For more information about how we test all of our products, check out BarBend’s Equipment Testing Methodology.
- Footprint and Portability: The options on our list have low profiles ranging from 8 to 14 inches in height, allowing them to easily slide under a desk. With overall weights between 5 and 23 pounds, many of these bikes can easily be relocated or even packed up for a trip.
- Value: The pricier models on our list (around $200) incorporate steel and magnetic resistance into their builds, but even the more affordable bikes (starting at $22) can get your heart pumping.
- Intensity: Each of the mini exercise bikes on our list offer low-impact workouts, but we included several options with adjustable resistance that afford you the option to ramp up the intensity.
Best Mini Exercise Bike Overall: Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike
The Sunny Health & Fitness Under Desk Mini Exercise Bike is a low-impact cardio alternative that can give you a solid workout as you relax on the couch or work in the office. It has eight adjustable levels of magnetic resistance and a seven-inch stride.
Specs
- Price: $169.99
- Pedal Height: 14.4’’
- Dimensions: 14.4’’ H x 18.7’’ D x 21.6’’ W
- Weight: 20.5lbs
The Sunny Health & Fitness Under Desk Mini Exercise Bike provides a low-impact cardio alternative for those confined to a couch or office chair. Our top pick among mini exercise bikes provides eight adjustable levels of magnetic resistance and a seven-inch stride that cater to seniors, physical therapy patients, and even those looking to burn some energy while sitting behind a desk.
Designed for low-impact workouts, this mini exercise bike lets you pedal away calories and tone muscle without the intensity of the best cardio machines. The unit aims to be just as quiet as many full-size bikes as well, with magnetic resistance and a 3.5-pound flywheel that works to quiet any distracting mechanical whirrs.
Several five-star reviews highlight its near-silent operation. “It’s so quiet I can watch TV and don’t have to turn up the volume,” reads one review. Other satisfied customers noted its usefulness in physical therapy, with many celebrating it as an essential active recovery tool after surgery.
The reviews do, however, add that the machine isn’t ideal for those looking for an intense cardio workout. “I don’t think I’ll be able to build giant leg muscles with this machine — even the highest level is pretty tame — [but] for boosting my heart rate, I think it’s perfect,” reads one review. “My goal was to replicate a somewhat brisk walking heart rate: mission accomplished.”
The mini exercise bike fortifies its stabilizers with rubberized suction cups, and the pedals are equipped with adjustable, non-slip straps. When you’re done, you can slip it under furniture or carry it to a closet with the built-in handle.
Best Budget Mini Exercise Bike: Himaly Mini Exercise Bike
The budget-friendly Himaly Mini Exercise Bike is a sturdy pedaler with powder-coated steel components that can help prevent corrosion. At less than eight inches in height, it can easily fit beneath desks and tables to provide a discrete, low-impact workout.
Specs
- Price: $48.88
- Pedal Height: 7.8’’
- Dimensions: 7.8’’ H x 15.7’’ D x 12.5’’ W
- Weight: 7.6lbs
At just $48.88, the Himaly Mini Exercise Bike costs roughly a quarter of the more expensive mini bikes on the market, easily landing it among the best budget home gym equipment. Despite its approachable price point, it still sports a durable powder-coated steel frame, while maintaining a desk-friendly height of 7.8 inches.
Designed for gentle workouts that are easy on the joints, the pedaler provides easy and moderate levels of resistance that can cater to those in various stages of recovery after an injury or surgery. It can also function as an under-desk exercise bike since its eight-inch height should leave plenty of room for your knees.
Several five-star reviews give the Himaly credit for its “sturdy” build. A few reviews on Amazon pointed out a “slight squeaky noise” they encountered while pedaling at higher levels of tension but noted that a bit of lubrication with WD-40 or a similar product helped quiet it down.
Since it’s a budget option, the Himaly utilizes friction instead of magnetic resistance, which can result in a pedal that’s not as smooth or quiet as what you’ll find on higher-end models. It is, however, a step above other pedalers at its price point thanks to its steel build, which has a powder coat that helps resist corrosion.
We also like the rubber pads on its feet, which can provide a little extra stability and work to protect your floors as you pedal. And since it’s only eight pounds, you can also lift it up onto your desk or table, unlocking the best upper-body workouts at home or the office.
Best Mini Exercise Bike for Beginners: Vive Under Desk Bike
Vive's beginner-friendly bike has an accompanying app with trainer-led classes that can provide an accessible introduction to pedaling. It provides multiple levels of magnetic resistance for an experience that's quieter than what you'll find with other machines at its price point.
Specs
- Price: $99.99
- Pedal Height: 9.1’’
- Dimensions: 9.1’ H x 24.57’’ D x 15.59’’ W
- Weight: 18.7lbs
If you’re tending to achy knees or looking for a way to burn energy in the office, the Vive Under Desk Bike is a beginner-friendly machine that is simple to use and only takes a few minutes to set up. It’s also backed by a one-year guarantee, which should prove helpful if you decide pedaling isn’t your exercise of choice.
“With my clients (and exercise-curious family members!), I’ve found that less intimidating, low-impact, low-cost equipment can be a lot more accessible for consistent use,” says BarBend editorial member and certified personal trainer Alex Polish. “That’s key when you’re trying to develop an exercise routine.”
Vive’s unit offers a gentle, low-impact workout that can help increase blood circulation and burn calories. (3) Its magnetic flywheel promises a smooth and quiet pedal, as well as eight levels of resistance. “I like this cycle a lot! I had a very simple pedal bike without resistance and this is far superior — my thighs have never looked better!” reads one five-star review.
Pairing your Vive pedal exerciser with its companion app can also provide some structure for your beginner workout plan. Along with the trainer-led workouts and scenic tours, you can view recorded workout sessions by day, week, month, and year, as well as track your progress during physical therapy.
As its name implies, the Under Desk Bike is designed to fit comfortably beneath most desks, thanks to its height of just 11 inches. Each pedal’s adjustable toe straps and textured bar work to provide stability and security as you pedal, whether it’s during a work meeting or while you’re watching TV at home.
Best Portable Mini Exercise Bike: Hausse Portable Exercise Pedal Bike
The Hausse Portable Exercise Pedal Bike is designed for portability, with a lightweight eight-pound frame and narrow design that can help when you're packing or slipping it under desks for a seated jog at the office.
Specs
- Price: $63.99
- Pedal Height: 13.7’’
- Dimensions: 13.7’’ H x 15.7’’ D x 11.6’’ W
- Weight: 8lbs
At just 8 pounds, the Hausse Portable Exercise Pedal Bike is one of the lightest mini exercise bikes you’ll find. It’s also the thinnest in terms of width at 11.6 inches, making it easier to pack when you’re traveling or squeezing in an office workout.
The pedals are adjustable to your feet, and the inclusion of a fixed belt can provide additional stability. To ensure the pedaler doesn’t slip during use, wrap the included stability belt around the rear of the machine’s base, then loop it around the legs of a chair or table.
“[It works] quite well for recovering range of motion and [it’s] quiet even with a bit of peddling resistance, so you can watch TV while pedaling,” reads one five-star review. Others note how useful the unit is for seniors. “Great for my age group,” reads another review. “At 68 I can sit in my chair and exercise my lower extremities.”
Since it’s battery-powered, you can pedal wherever you’ve set up shop — no power outlet required. While you pedal, Hausse’s machine will fill you in on your speed, RPM, distance, and estimated calories burned via the LCD monitor. And when you’re done, a built-in carry handle makes it easy to transport and stow away.
Best Adjustable Mini Exercise Bike: Vaunn Medical Under Desk Pedal Exerciser
The Vaunn Medical Under Desk Pedal Exerciser provides a gentle, low-impact workout catered to seniors and those with limited mobility. Its wide base works to provide added stability and also folds up when not in use for easy travel and storage.
Specs
- Price: $49.99
- Height: 13’’
- Dimensions: 13’’ H x 18.25’’ D x 15.2’’ W
- Weight: 5.4lbs
The Vaunn Medical Under Desk Pedal Exerciser outfits its compact 5.4-pound frame with adjustable pedal straps and easy and moderate resistance levels for a low-impact workout that’s adaptable to your needs. The straps can be adjusted from 2.75 inches to four inches to accommodate feet big and small.
Vaunn designed the machine with a wider base of 15.2 inches that allows for a lower pedal placement than you’ll find on other models. The pedals reach 13 inches at their highest point, which should leave a comfortable 13 to 17 inches for your knees if your desk is the standard height of 27 to 30 inches. The machine’s alloy steel construction pairs with the wide base to provide stability as you pedal.
Easily controlling the low and medium intensity levels via the built-in knob makes exercise for seniors and those with limited mobility a bit more accessible. “I have chronic illnesses that set me back sometimes in life. I bought this to keep near my bed or sofa when I’m not feeling well… It feels really good to just move my legs on days where I just simply can’t exercise,” reads one five-star review.
Noting the light resistance, a customer using the pedaler for physical therapy suggested adding ankle weights to boost the challenge. “Could not be more pleased,” they wrote.
When workouts are done, the quick-release folding mechanism takes 3.5 inches off the width and more than four inches off the height so you can store it in bags, desk drawers, or under furniture. Plus, at under six pounds, it’s also light enough that you won’t strain your neck or shoulder when bringing it to the office or on vacation.
Best Under Desk Mini Exercise Bike: DeskCycle Under Desk Bike
The DeskCycle Under Desk Bike was designed to help you stay active while firing off emails at work. The low-profile pedals are adjustable and compatible with desks as low as 27 inches. Its magnetic resistance, meanwhile, works to provide a whisper-quiet pedal that won't distract coworkers.
Specs
- Price: $269.99
- Height: 9’’ to 10’’
- Dimensions: 10’’ H x 10.24’’ D x 24.02’’ W
- Weight: 23lbs
The DeskCycle Under Desk Bike’s high-quality steel build and adjustable height are perfect for those looking for an under-desk mini exercise bike. The height of the foot pedals can be adjusted from 9 to 10 inches, which makes it compatible with desks as low as 27 inches (so long as the user is 5’10’’ or under).
At 23 pounds, this alloy steel unit is heavier than many standard pedalers and even some of the best under-desk ellipticals, but that heft contributes to its stability and durability. “It didn’t slide around or feel unstable at all,” notes our tester, rating its stability a 5 out of 5.
DeskCycle’s model also earns its $269.99 price point with a bidirectional flywheel that provides 39 pounds of resistance to better simulate the feel of a full-size indoor cycling bike. Our tester, a certified personal trainer, scored its eight levels of magnetic resistance a 4.5 out of 5. “And let me tell you, that top level of resistance is hard work! I don’t think I could actually get work done while cycling from these levels,” they note.
“This cycle uses a dual-band resistance system, which makes it super quiet when in use,” adds our tester, who scored its low noise level a 5 out of 5. “I wouldn’t worry about disrupting others in your office or family members in the next room with this thing.”
The DeskCycle also allows you to track your stats as you pump the pedals by connecting with two of the best fitness trackers we’ve tested: Fitbit and Apple Watch. Its five-function LCD screen can also be removed from the unit, so you won’t need to keep peeking under your desk.
Best Lightweight Mini Exercise Bike: Wakeman Fitness Portable Under Desk Stationary Pedal Machine
At less than six pounds, this pedal exerciser is one of the most lightweight options on the market. Its compact frame, which is less than 10 inches in height, is so light that you can easily lift it onto tables to give your arms the same kind of workout as your legs.
Specs
- Price: $28.17
- Pedal Height: 9.5’’
- Dimensions: 9.5’’ H x 19.5’’ L x 14’’ W
- Weight: 5.82lbs
Wakeman’s pedaler is one of the lightest machines on the market, with its 5.8-pound weight being between two and 20 pounds lighter than most other models on the market. Its 9.5-inch height, which can accommodate desks as low as 27 inches in height, is also on the lower end. Better yet, it folds up when not in use, cutting its height down to 6 inches while reducing its length from 19.5 inches to just 14 inches.
Its lighter weight makes it easy to lift onto tables, where you can also use the machine to help tone your arms. Whether you’re working your arms or firing up a leg workout, this versatile machine’s non-slip base works to ensure it won’t slip or slide beneath your grip. Some reviews, however, note that it works better on carpeted surfaces and rugs since it can slide on smooth surfaces as you pedal.
Thanks to its low- and high-tension settings, the pedaler can assist those in physical therapy following surgery or an injury throughout their recovery journey. You can also keep tabs on your progress with the built-in digital panel, which displays metrics like RPMs, time, and estimated calories burned.
Several reviewers noted that the Wakeman helped them work around knee discomfort, while another five-star review said it “definitely helps reduce my pain in both arthritic knees, making it easier to walk.”
It’s also helpful for those who get antsy when stuck behind a desk at work. “Great product for the price,” reads another five-star review. “I can use it during meetings. It’s a great way to keep moving and get jitters out when having back-to-back online conferences.”
When folded, the Wakeman is 3.5 inches shorter and 6.5 inches less wide, making it easy to stow away in closets or tote bags. And since the battery-powered pedaler requires no electrical power, you can unfold it anywhere you find yourself in a sedentary position.
Benefits of Mini Exercise Bikes
Mini exercise bikes might not prepare you for the Tour de France, but they’re absolutely able to provide a light and accessible cardio workout that can be hugely beneficial for seniors and those with limited mobility. Here are a few of the main benefits of mini exercise bikes.
- Low-Impact Exercise: Since not everybody has the mobility, strength, or means to hit the gym or take a jog, mini exercise bikes can serve as a low-impact cardio workout for users of all fitness levels. Even low-intensity physical activity can have a positive impact on one’s health, helping to increase blood flow, tone muscle, and burn calories. (2)(3)
- Can Help With Recovery: Research has proven that the low-impact workout provided by mini exercise bikes can help those recovering following an injury or surgery by helping increase mobility and improve endurance. (4)(5) They’ve also been shown to improve muscle strength, balance, and exercise capacity for elderly patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. (6)
- Stay Active At Work: For full-time office workers, spending so much time in a sedentary position can have adverse health effects over time. (1)(7) Active workstations that use machines like mini exercise bikes may help improve the health and physical activity levels of those sitting at work. (8) In fact, one 2022 study found that 60 minutes of pedaling on a mini exercise bike improved cardiometabolic risk factors in inactive office workers over a 12-week period. (9)
How Much Do Mini Exercise Bikes Cost?
Since they can take on several different forms, the best mini exercise bikes range from around $28 to $270. Models at the high end of that price range are often more stable during use and may connect to apps or fitness trackers. Budget models can still get your heart pumping, but might last as long as more heavy-duty bikes. Check out the cost of some of the best compact exercise equipment we’ve tested: mini exercise bikes.
| Best Mini Exercise Bike Overall | Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike | $169.99 |
| Best Budget Mini Exercise Bike | Himaly Mini Exercise Bike | $48.88 |
| Best Mini Exercise Bike for Beginners | Vive Under Desk Bike | $99.99 |
| Best Portable Mini Exercise Bike | Hausse Portable Exercise Pedal Bike | $63.99 |
| Best Adjustable Mini Exercise Bike | Vaunn Medical Under Desk Pedal Exerciser | $49.99 |
| Best Under Desk Mini Exercise Bike | DeskCycle Under Desk Bike | $269.99 |
| Best Lightweight Mini Exercise Bike | Wakeman Fitness Portable Under Desk Stationary Pedal Machine | $28.17 |
What to Consider Before Buying a Mini Exercise Bike
Accessibility and compact designs are a big part of the appeal of mini exercise bikes, but as BarBend editorial member and certified personal trainer Alex Polish says, “Economic access is a big issue with cardio equipment, and mini exercise bikes are a huge barrier-breaker.” Different models can differ in size, tech, and level of stability, so here are a few key things to consider when picking one out.
Your Fitness Needs
What is it you’re looking to achieve with a mini exercise bike? A bare-bones model will work well if you just want something to help you quickly burn 100 calories or keep your blood flowing as you watch TV. If you see it as a physical therapy tool, on the other hand, you’ll likely benefit from a model with multiple levels of resistance and app-assisted tracking, which can help you keep tabs on your progress.
Work Environment
Before committing to a mini exercise bike, measure the space available under your desk to ensure a pedaler won’t cramp your style. Standard desks tend to range between 27 and 30 inches high, and, depending on your height, you’ll need at least 13 inches of space between the top of the pedaler and the bottom of your desk to ensure your knees won’t hit its underside.
Also, as Polish points out, consider how quiet you’ll need your new cardio machine to be to avoid disturbing your coworkers. “Plus, they take up less room than pretty much any other cardio machine, so people who want a discrete machine in the office are welcome to join the party,” they say.
Cost
While mini exercise bikes are less of an investment than full-sized cardio machines, pricier models can still push about $200. “They’re so many orders of magnitude cheaper than regular-sized stationary bikes that many more people can afford them,” Polish says.
Consider how much you can afford to spend on your new pedaler when you’re deciding between an app-connected high-end option or a more budget-friendly mini cycling bike closer to the $28 end of the price range.
Stability
“One thing to watch out for is the shift factor: a lot of these tiny ‘bikes’ shift around when you pedal even a little rigorously,” Polish says. “Make sure they have reliable stoppers on them, or consider putting them on a small exercise mat for extra stability. Sitting directly over them (instead of sitting in a more reclined position) can also help with the slide factor.”
Mini Exercise Bikes FAQS
Is a mini exercise bike effective?
Absolutely. Mini exercise bikes provide a light to moderate lower-body workout intensity that can help you burn calories and increase blood circulation when you’re confined to a couch or chair. They’re especially helpful for seniors and physical therapy patients. They can even help office workers workout while sitting at a computer. Light-intensity workouts have been proven to help combat the negative effects of sedentary behaviors, resulting in improved cardiometabolic health and a reduced risk of mortality. (2)
What’s the best mini exercise bike?
We’re big fans of the Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike, which promises a quiet pedal, adjustable toe straps, and eight levels of magnetic resistance.
How long should you use a mini exercise bike?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends 150 minutes of physical activity each week for adults. (10) You can split that up however you like, but it’s possible you will see and feel results after spending 30 minutes a day, five days a week, on a mini exercise bike.
References
- Patterson, R., McNamara, E., Tainio, M., Hérick de Sá, T., Smith, A. D., Sharp, S. J., Edwards, P., Woodcock, J., Brage, S., Wijndaele, K. (2018). Sedentary behaviour and risk of all-cause, cardiovascular and cancer mortality, and incident type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and dose response meta-analysis. European Journal of Epidemiology, 33(9), 811-829.
- Amagasa, S., Machida, M. Fukushima, N., Kikuchi, H., Takamiya, T., Odagiri, Y., Inoue, S. (2018). Is objectively measured light-intensity physical activity associated with health outcomes after adjustment for moderate-to-vigorous physical activity in adults? A systematic review. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 15(1), 65.
- Füzéki, E., Engeroff, T., Banzer, W. (2017). Health Benefits of Light-Intensity Physical Activity: A Systematic Review of Accelerometer Data of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). The American Journal of Sports Medicine, 47(9), 1769-1793.
- Sattler, L. N., Hing, W. A., Vertullo, C. J. (2019). Pedaling-Based Protocol Superior to a 10-Exercise, Non-Pedaling Protocol for Postoperative Rehabilitation After Total Knee Replacement: A Randomized Controlled Trial. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, 101(8), 688-695.
- Bhatt, N. R., Sheridan, G., Connolly, M., Kelly, S., Gillis, A., Conlon, K. C., Lane, S., Shanahan, E., Ridgway, P. F. (2017) Postoperative exercise training is associated with reduced respiratory infection rates and early discharge: A case-control study. The Surgeon, 15(3), 139-146.
- Torres-Sánchez, I., Valenza, M. C., Cabrera-Martos, I., López-Torres, I., Benítez-Feliponi, A., Conde-Valero, A. (2017). Effects of an Exercise Intervention in Frail Older Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Hospitalized due to an Exacerbation: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases, 14(1), 37-42.
- Clemes, S. A., O’Connell, S. E., Edwardson, C. L. (2014). Office workers’ objectively measured sedentary behavior and physical activity during and outside working hours. Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 56(3), 298-303.
- Torbeyns, T., Bailey, S., Bos, I., Meeusen, R. (2014). Active workstations to fight sedentary behaviour. Sports Medicine, 44(9), 1261-73.
- Guirado, T., Metz, L., Pereira, B., Brun, C., Birat, A., Boscaro, A., Bergouignan, A., Thivel, D., Duclos, M. (2022). A 12-Week Cycling Workstation Intervention Improves Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Healthy Inactive Office Workers. Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 64(8), e467-e474.
- How much physical activity do adults need?, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/adults/index.htm
