The best exercise bikes can be a great way to introduce some low-impact cardio into your fitness routine, but they may be uncomfortable for some people with knee or hip issues. That’s where recumbent bikes come in with their reclined seating position.
After testing nearly 30 models, our team of product testers has found the best recumbent bikes. Because everyone needs something different, we evaluated models ranging from ultra-budget-friendly to commercial-grade, using our equipment testing methodology to guide our ratings. Some of our top testing criteria include:
- Comfort: Since recumbent bikes are popular for individuals who are undergoing injury rehabilitation or struggle with mobility or posture, comfort was a key factor in our evaluation process.
- Adjustability: We took a hard look at the adjustability of seat height, reach distance, screen angle, and other features.
- Value: We carefully considered whether the features and durability align with the model’s price point.
After helping more than 2,000 people find the best cardio machines for their needs, we’re confident you’ll find something you love on our list.
The 7 Best Recumbent Bikes (2025)
- Best Recumbent Bike Overall: NordicTrack Commercial R35
- Best Recumbent Bike for Streaming: Sole LCR Exercise Bike
- Best Recumbent Bike for Beginners: Horizon 5.0R Recumbent Bike
- Best Recumbent Bike for Seniors: Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike
- Best Recumbent Bike for Small Spaces: Sunny Health & Fitness Essential Recumbent Bike
- Best Budget Recumbent Bike: Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike
- Best Folding Recumbent Bike: Yosuda Folding Exercise Bike
Best Recumbent Bike Overall: NordicTrack Commercial R35
This recumbent bike features a 25-pound flywheel and 26 levels of magnetic resistance. With your purchase, you’ll receive a 30-day trial to iFIT, granting you access to over 16,000 workout classes ranging from cardio to strength training.
Why We Like It
To make it to the top of our list, a recumbent bike has to be well-built and versatile, while enticing you to come back for more. The NordicTrack Commercial R35 fits the bill well, landing itself in our highest slot.
We gave this machine a 5 out of 5 for dynamic programming. With integrated iFIT workouts on a crisp 14-inch HD touchscreen, you can immerse yourself in picturesque locations during your workouts. An iFIT membership (optional for around $39 per month with a 30-day free trial), allows trainers to monitor your progress and automatically adjust between 26 digital resistance levels.
Programming: 5 out of 5
Adjustability: 4 out of 5
Portability: 3.75 out of 5
This machine also has a built-in fan and a dual water bottle. The 14-inch screen is high-tech but a little smaller than our testers would like. “The seat is oversized and has lumbar support, which is a bonus for long workouts. You can adjust the seat forward and back to accommodate your leg length,” our tester says, giving a 4 out of 5 for adjustability. “There isn’t any handlebar adjustment that I can see, though.”
This machine is 192 pounds and it’s a little large, so it’s probably not ideal for those without much free space. “There are front-mounted transport wheels, which can be helpful for moving the machine around the room,” our tester said, giving this machine a 3.75 out of 5 for footprint and portability. “I will say, this isn’t ideal for those who are recovering from an injury or can’t lift heavy loads.” Lighter options include the Sole LCR, Horizon 5.0R, and Schwinn 230.
This bike is a little pricey, as well, at $1,499, but our testers still awarded it 4 out of 5 points for overall value. This machine feels incredibly stable and has plenty of adjustability, too, according to our tester. “If I were in the market for a recumbent bike, I’d probably go with this option,” they add.
Read our full NordicTrack Commercial R35 Review.
Best Recumbent Bike for Streaming: Sole LCR Exercise Bike
For those who like to stream workout videos while they train, this recumbent bike is a great pick. It comes with access to a free library of training videos and you get 40 resistance level options.
Why We Like It
Virtual workout classes can be an excellent way to get out of a fitness slump or just keep your exercise streak going. For those who love to stream classes, we recommend the Sole LCR Exercise Bike. This bike comes with access to a totally free library full of thousands of workout videos.
For dynamic programming, we gave our Sole pick a 4 out of 5. The Sole+ app has bike workouts but also training modalities you can do off-bike including yoga and strength training. However, we had to dock one point because you need your phone or tablet to stream this best workout app. This bike does have a device holder, though, so you can place your screen right on the front for easier viewing.
Tech Capabilities: 3.5 out of 5
Programming: 4 out of 5
Footprint: 4 out of 5
Sole’s recumbent bike also has 40 resistance levels, an adjustable and cushioned seat, and a built-in fan, earning a 5 out of 5 for conveniences. The pedals also have an adjustable strap, so you can find your perfect fit. Plus, the bike connects to the Sole+ app through Bluetooth, so you can track all your workout data without any post-training logging. “I didn’t have any glitches when connecting to the monitor,” says our tester. “Plus, the display haptics were easy to master. You can quickly get comfortable with operating this recumbent bike.”
For tech capabilities, we gave this machine a 3.5 out of 5 because you can’t actually stream the workouts on the bike screen. The 10.1-inch display is also a little small and may be difficult to read for some users. But you do get 10-pre-programmed and 12 user-defined workouts built in along with access to the Sole+ app. “I will note, though, that some of the cycling programming isn’t specific to recumbent bikes,” notes our tester. “I found this out after loading a course that called for standing in the saddle — not exactly the most appropriate instruction for a recumbent bike.”
For those who don’t love a lot of DIY assembly, this is an excellent pick, earning a 5 out of 5 in the category. Most of the bike comes pre-assembled, and the few pieces you need to assemble yourself are simple and come with easy-to-follow instructions.
We do think this bike is a little pricey, though. For value, we gave the Sole LCR a 3.75 out of 5, as there are cheaper options on this list (such as the Horizon 5.0R and Schwinn 230) with similar tech capabilities. That said, we have had luck with finding some Sole discount codes to help lessen your fitness costs.
Best Recumbent Bike for Beginners: Horizon 5.0R Recumbent Bike
This recumbent bike has 100 different resistance levels, so there’s something for every athlete. You also get a more budget-friendly price tag, compared to other machines with similar abilities.
Best Recumbent Bike for Seniors: Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike
The Schwinn 230 has a solid build, a comfortable ride, and a host of user-friendly features. Not only that but an affordable price for the quality with 16 levels of resistance to select from while you follow along to workouts from popular streaming apps like Explore the World and Zwift.
Why We Like It
Recumbent bikes can be a great piece of fitness equipment for older adults, as they’re low-impact and the entire exercise can be performed while seated. The Schwinn 230 is an easy-to-use recumbent bike that makes it one of the best exercise bikes for seniors.
For one, this bike has plenty of conveniences that may appeal to older folks. It has a step-through design, so you don’t have to worry about lifting your legs high and climbing up onto a seat. The contoured seat also has holes for ventilation, helping prevent overheating. We also like the easy-to-reach water bottle holder and the adjustable seat, earning a 4.5 out of 5 for conveniences.
Portability: 5 out of 5
Available Tech: 3 out of 5
Price: 4 out of 5
This bike is relatively lightweight and small, so our testers gave it a 5 out of 5 for footprint and portability. This machine weighs 81.6 pounds, which isn’t necessarily lightweight, but the wheels make it moveable for most adults.
There’s not much dynamic programming with this bike, so we gave it a 3 out of 5 in that category. You do get 13 built-in workout programs, though, which can be plenty for most folks. Plus, you can connect your personal device to the JRNY app to stream workouts. “There are also heart rate monitors built into the handles, but I’d recommend pairing your smartwatch or fitness tracker via Bluetooth rather than relying on these pulse sensors for accurate readings,” says our tester, a certified personal trainer.
We gave the tech capabilities a 3 out of 5, too, especially as it relates to older adults. “The five and a half-inch screen is a little on the smaller side,” our tester notes. “If you don’t have great vision, this may be a bit annoying.” However, the text on the screen is relatively large, so visibility may not be a big issue. With that said, you can always place your personal device on the tablet holder. If you do prefer a more immersive display, consider something like the NordicTrack Commercial R35 Recumbent Bike.
For value, our testers gave this bike a 4 out of 5. The $599 price tag isn’t as pricey as some of our other options but you can find more budget-friendly picks. However, for older adults, we think the stable bike design and intuitive technology is a good choice.
Read our full Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike Review.
Best Recumbent Bike for Small Spaces: Sunny Health & Fitness Essential Recumbent Bike
This Sunny Health & Fitness Essential Recumbent Bike has a smaller frame than most other options, so it can easily fit in tighter spaces. You also get a budget-friendly price.
Why We Like It
We don’t all have tons of free space in our home gyms. And thanks to the best compact exercise equipment such as the Sunny Health & Fitness’ Essential Recumbent Bike, that’s no problem. When it comes to footprint and portability, we gave this pick a 5 out of 5. It’s smaller, shorter, and lighter than most of the other products on our list. At only 66 pounds, it’s easy to carry around, too, and the dimensions make it simple to fit in the corner of (virtually) any room.
Despite its size, it still boasts impressive durability. “It’s a lighter bike but it’s surprisingly durable and sturdy,” our tester states, giving the durability a 4 out of 5. We didn’t notice any wobbling or rocking, either, thanks to the built-in floor stabilizers. While it doesn’t feel as solid as some of the higher-end bikes, it’s surprisingly stable for its weight.
Footprint: 5 out of 5
Durability: 4 out of 5
Programming: 2 out of 5
There’s decent adjustability with this bike, too. The pedals have an adjustable strap and the 14-inch wide seat can move up and down. The bike didn’t quite earn a perfect score, though — our tester gave it a 4 out of 5 — because the bike only accommodates an inseam of 25 to 34 inches, which won’t work for taller adults.
The technology is pretty basic here, earning a 2-star rating. “The small LCD screen can be difficult to read, at times,” says our tester in reference to their 2-out-of-5 scoring. “Plus, the metrics tracked aren’t too comprehensive, meaning you’re only able to track time, speed, distance, pulse, and calories. For the price, though, I don’t believe you should be expecting a tech-heavy profile.” For more available tech, consider machines like the Sole LCR or NordicTrack R35 Commercial Recumbent Bike.
Overall, we gave the value of this bike a 3.8 out of 5. For the budget-friendly price of $359.99, you still get a pretty durable bike that can hold up through plenty of workouts.
Best Budget Recumbent Bike: Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike
This bike isn’t fancy, but it still has everything you need for a solid at-home cardio workout. It offers eight levels of magnetic resistance, and you can track your stats on the LCD display screen.
Why We Like It
Fitness equipment can be pretty pricey. But at least where recumbent bikes are concerned, you don’t need to spend thousands of dollars to get a quality product. For those shopping on a budget, we recommend the Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike. Earning a 5 out of 5 for overall value, we think you get plenty of bang for your buck with this machine.
While this bike isn’t the absolute cheapest around, we like that this bike maintains quality at a low price. It’s pretty durable and has a 300-pound user capacity. At only 53 pounds, this is an impressive feat. Our testers gave this machine a 4 out of 5 for durability, though, since there are some notable plastic components that could suffer from wear and tear over time.
Price: 5 out of 5
Resistance: 2 out of 5
Durability: 4 out of 5
When it comes to portability, this bike earned a 4 out of 5. It’s lightweight and it has wheels on the front, allowing for easy movement around your home. “The entire profile is easy to control, and I had no strains or complaints when getting this bike into position for training,” adds our tester, a certified personal trainer.
This Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike is not especially small, though, so you may want to compare the measurements to your available space. The small LCD monitor is easy to read and well-lit, though, which we like. “Plus, the simplified display means you don’t need a Master’s degree to understand the layout. There’s nothing complicated about the button toggles, which can be viewed as a positive or negative,” says our tester.
Unfortunately, there are only eight resistance levels and bare-bones programming, earning a 2 out of 5 for tech capabilities. If you’re an experienced biker, a more advanced option is probably preferable, such as the Horizon 5.0R or Sole LCR.
For conveniences, we gave this pick a 3.5 out of 5. It has an adjustable seat and ergonomic handlebars. Plus, you get a tablet holder, which is something that budget picks typically don’t feature. We do wish this option had a cup holder and heart rate monitor, though.
Read our full Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike Review.
Best Folding Recumbent Bike: Yosuda Folding Exercise Bike
The Yosuda Folding Exercise Bike is four exercise machines in one, including a rower, cable strength trainer, recumbent bike, and upright bike. This bike is also available on Amazon.
How We Tested and Chose the Best Recumbent Bikes
Knowing you’re making the correct choice in a big purchase can be challenging, but our team of certified personal trainers, endurance coaches, and equipment experts knows exactly what to look for in a recumbent bike. To date, we’ve tested roughly 25 recumbent bikes and researched many beyond that.
All of the bikes we evaluated were subject to a rigorous testing protocol, where we rated each silhouette across a variety of factors on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). Bikes scored 1-2 points for below-average performance in any area, 3 points for standard expected performance, and 4-5 points for above average or exceptional performance. Below are the factors included in our recumbent bike testing:
- Ergonomics: We analyzed the seat angles, reach to the handlebars, screen angles, and other factors to rate ergonomics. Bikes that supported better body positioning for a range of body types earned higher scores.
- Adjustability: We prioritized models that have several adjustment points (seat height, seat distance, foot pedal size, handlebar height) and at least five options for each point.
- Comfort: A comfortable seat is key. Seat shape, seat padding, handlebar grip and padding, and pedal shape and grip influenced comfort ratings.
- Delivery and assembly: We factored professional delivery options and ease (or lack thereof) of assembly into our scores.
- Build quality: While we never feature any products that we don’t have full confidence in, there are some that are exceptionally well-made. All of the bikes on this list are designed to live out their full years-long lifespan, and many you can expect to use for 10 to 20 years (if you treat them right).
- Weight capacity: The industry standard is 300 pounds; bikes with a lower weight capacity scored fewer points and bikes with a higher capacity earned more points.
- Warranty: The average warranty we found on these bikes was around 10 years for the frame, though some even offered lifetime warranties. That itself should bolster your confidence in how much the company believes in their product’s quality.
- Value: While recumbent bikes can certainly be expensive, there are some profiles that serve as some of the best budget exercise bikes, too. Bikes at lower price points will usually feature fewer bells and whistles, while more high-tech bikes are generally more expensive. We placed a higher value on recumbent bikes that provided the best bang for your buck to stretch your dollar further.
- Features: You can find standard tech options like Bluetooth connectivity, tablet holders, speakers, and fans on nearly all the bikes. Some others will have more high-end features with touchscreens, immersive displays and sound arrays, and automatically-adjusting resistance.
- Workout programming: We also prioritized our overall workout experience with each bike. All of these bikes have some sort of basic tracking screen, so we prioritized the machines that were easiest to use and most intuitive.
- Resistance type: The most common resistance type for recumbent bikes is magnetic. Magnetic resistance feels smooth and requires less maintenance than friction-based resistance. So, we put a higher focus on these options.
- Noise: Because our top picks have magnetic resistance, they are virtually silent, which is the standard for exercise bikes. Models with noisy flywheels earned fewer points.
- Resistance levels: We prioritized bikes with ample resistance levels (at least 8). This can make the machine more suitable for a variety of athletes and fitness levels.
Benefits of Recumbent Bikes
Recumbent bikes have very similar perks to more traditional exercise bikes. They can provide cardiovascular benefits and improved aerobic fitness along with a lower impact on your joints than you’d receive from, say, running on a treadmill. (1) You can perform your exercise while seated and recumbent bikes are generally easier to mount than regular exercise bikes. According to Dr. Milica McDowell, physical therapist and exercise physiologist, the main benefits of recumbent bikes include:
- Injury rehabilitation: For recovering from an injury, exercising on a recumbent bike can be less stressful to the lower body joints (hips, knees, and ankles) and the spine due to the lower angled position of sitting reclined versus upright, McDowell says. “A recumbent is often used by physios to allow a very gradual return to range of motion after significant surgeries like joint replacement or back surgery.”
- Recovery from health conditions: “Using a recumbent bike allows a greater scope of regressing exercises—making them easier—so it’s a way that more people can reap the benefits of the machine with less stress,” McDowell says. “Even those recovering from a stroke, heart attack or other life-threatening condition are often able to use it safely under the guidance of a rehab pro.”
- Managing chronic pain: Recumbent bikes put less force and stress on the joints, so they can be a great option for those managing chronic pain. McDowell notes, “Many individuals who are uncomfortable sitting on an upright bike are able to use a recumbent with relative ease.”
- Exercising with postural issues: “The back support of the seat of a recumbent bike can be helpful to those with poor posture or low trunk endurance, or even with a weak core,” McDowell states, “Allowing more people to use the bike more successfully than an upright bike.”
- Increased safety: Step-through designs, lower seats, and other recumbent-specific design features can make these bikes safer to use for many populations compared to upright bikes, according to McDowell.
How Much Do Recumbent Bikes Cost?
Recumbent bikes are relatively expensive as far as cardio equipment goes, but they’re pretty much on par with other types of exercise bikes, and less expensive than many comparable treadmills or ellipticals.
Cost of Recumbent Bikes
Like any cardio machine — from the best treadmills to ellipticals, rowers, and beyond — recumbent bikes can vary in price depending on their available conveniences, levels of resistance, weight capacity, and more. Below, we’ve listed the MSRPs of each recumbent bike featured in this guide, along with other key specs to help you better understand the price point.
| Model | Price | Resistance Levels | Flywheel Weight | Weight Capacity | Display | Best For |
| NordicTrack Commercial R35 | $1,499 | 26 | 25lbs | 350 lbs | 14” HD touchscreen | Well-rounded biking experience |
| Sole LCR Exercise Bike | $1,999.99 | 40 | 31lbs | 350 lbs | 10.1” Android touchscreen | Streaming workouts |
| Horizon 5.0R Recumbent Bike | $999 | 100 | 15.4lbs | 300 lbs | High-contrast 60 x 127mm LCD Window | Beginners |
| Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike | $599 | 16 | Not listed online | 300 lbs | 5.5″ segmented LCD | Seniors |
| Sunny Health and Fitness Essential Recumbent Bike | $359.99 | 8 | Not listed online | 220 lbs | Digital LCD with phone holder | Small spaces |
| Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike | $249.99 | 8 | Not listed online | 300 lbs | Digital LCD display | On a budget |
| Yosuda Folding Exercise Bike | $239.99 | 16 | Not listed online | 330 lbs | Digital LCD display | Folding frame |
What to Consider Before Buying a Recumbent Bike
It doesn’t matter if this is your first time buying a piece of equipment or you’re putting the finishing touches on your home gym — there are still some key points to consider before finalizing your purchase. We’ve outlined our top recommendations below to help you understand what to look for when buying an indoor cycle such as a recumbent bike.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Comfort is the cornerstone of a quality recumbent bike, and it’s the reason many people choose one over an upright model in the first place. Look for a well-contoured seat with lower back support, an adjustable backrest, and a step-through frame that makes getting on and off easier, especially if you have limited mobility.
According to Dr. Kira Capozzolo, DC, “The reclined position reduces spinal compression and provides lumbar support, which is particularly helpful for individuals with low back pain, disc issues, or general postural instability. It also allows people recovering from knee, hip, or ankle injuries to maintain mobility and circulation without risking reinjury, thanks to the controlled, seated pedal motion.”
Weight Capacity
Most recumbent bikes are rated for users between 250 and 400 pounds, but always double-check the manufacturer’s specs before finalizing your checkout. Choosing a bike with a weight capacity well above your current weight can improve both performance and product longevity, as it can help reduce stress on the frame and mechanical components. Exceeding the recommended capacity, even slightly, can increase wear on the flywheel and strain the bearings.
If you’re building a shared home gym, opt for a higher-capacity model to safely accommodate multiple users, as well.
Assembly
Some recumbent bikes come partially assembled and include all necessary tools, while others arrive in what can feel like 200 separate pieces. If you’re not especially handy, consider hiring professional assembly or choosing a model with minimal setup. Bikes with complex frame designs or integrated electronics, like heart rate sensors or touchscreen consoles, often require more careful installation, so don’t rush the process.
Noise
The flywheel and resistance mechanism determines how loud a recumbent bike will be during use. Magnetic resistance systems are generally the quietest, while friction-based or fan-style bikes — like you see in the best air bikes — can generate noticeable noise, especially at higher intensities.
Warranty
Warranty terms can serve as a proxy for build quality. Budget-friendly recumbent bikes may only come with a 90-day or one-year limited warranty, while more robust models can feature coverage of up to 10 years on the frame and at least one to three years on parts and electronics. The best models have lifetime warranties on the frames.
A longer warranty often reflects a manufacturer’s confidence in the durability of their materials and design, as well. Be sure to read the fine print, though — some warranties require registration within a set period or don’t cover labor and wear-and-tear components like pedals and seats.
Display and Tech
The level of technology included in your recumbent bike is likely going to be one of the biggest differences you’ll notice on the surface when choosing the right one for you. If you like to utilize streaming platforms like iFIT, Peloton, or Zwift then you may want to prioritize a machine with a large display or one with a rock-solid tablet mount that won’t bounce your device around when pedaling hard. Those who don’t want or need the tech may be able to save a few bucks by opting for a low-tech bike instead.
Best Recumbent Bikes FAQs
What is the best recumbent bike on the market?
The market for recumbent bikes isn’t quite as intensely competitive as the one for traditional indoor cycling bikes, but there are still tons of options available. If we had to pick just one, our favorite would be the NordicTrack Commercial R35. Its top-of-the-line in streaming, available resistance levels, and good looks give it the edge over the competition. It may be pricey, but the value is practically unmatched.
How are recumbent bikes different from traditional exercise bikes?
Recumbent bikes are different from traditional exercise bikes due to their seat orientation. You’re usually hunched over or leaned forward (similar to how cyclists on road bikes ride) on classic exercise bikes, while recumbent bikes allow you to recline back. This can potentially engage your quads more and alleviate the tension on your back that you may get from prolonged sessions on a regular exercise bike.
How much do recumbent bikes cost?
Recumbent bikes are priced rather similarly to regular exercise bikes and generally cheaper than other cardio machines like treadmills and ellipticals. On the lower end, you can pick up a bare-bones bike for as little as $200. The best recumbent exercise bikes and higher-tech options can run up into the thousands, but usually top out somewhere around $1,500.
References
- Blumenthal JA, Emery CF, Madden DJ, et al. Cardiovascular and behavioral effects of aerobic exercise training in healthy older men and women. J Gerontol. 1989;44(5):M147-M157.
