The 10 Best Indoor Cycling Bikes of 2024, Tested

October 25, 2024

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If you’re looking for the best indoor cycling bike to supercharge your home workouts, you’ve come to the right place. An indoor cycling bike, also known as a spin bike, is a dynamic fitness tool designed for intense cardio sessions right in your living room. Ideal for fitness enthusiasts of all levels, these bikes mimic the feel of outdoor cycling while offering customizable resistance and a variety of workout modes.

To find the bikes that are worth your investment, we first consulted cycling experts to learn more about what key features set quality options apart. Then, we researched dozens of options from top brands like Bowflex, Peloton, SoulCycle, and more. Finally, we tested 26 expert-approved exercise bikes over four weeks, evaluating each one based on stability, performance, adjustability, comfort, display, and overall value. We also had a USA triathlon-certified coach from our Review Board review this article to ensure our recommendations meet high standards for performance, safety, and training effectiveness.

PHOTO: Target

Key Specs

Who It’s For

Best if you want a bike that simulates the feel of outdoor cycling, with added high-tech features and tracking metrics.

Why We Love It

Bowflex’s Velocore Bike 16” is packed with advanced features and tracking metrics, making it a standout choice if you’re looking for a comprehensive workout experience. During testing, we were impressed by its smooth magnetic resistance, which provided a quiet and consistent ride. The fully adjustable seat and dual-sided pedals allowed a customized experience, accommodating various user sizes and shoe types. We also tested the 22″ option and were just as impressed. We especially liked the adjustability and wide range of available classes, although the app requires a paid subscription to access most of them.

What sets this bike further apart is its unique leaning mode, which simulates the side-to-side movement of real outdoor cycling. We found this required us to engage our core muscles, which are some of the main muscles trained during cycling, and get an even better workout. Plus, the large, high-definition touchscreen display offers various interactive workout programs, keeping us motivated and entertained. With its sturdy build and impressive array of features, this bike delivers exceptional value.

Potential Flaws

The seat lacks cushioning, but you can always purchase a padded bike seat to put on top.
When we tested the 22″ version of this bike, we found it wobbled slightly, especially when standing, but it wasn’t enough for us to feel unsafe or like we would topple over.

Most Valuable Insight

“This bike is worth the price. It just has so much packed into it, and the craftsmanship is top-notch.” —Danielle Ransom, Verywell Fit product tester

PHOTO: Merach Fit

Pros

Smooth, silent ride
Easy to setup
Ergonomic handles

Key Specs

Who It’s For

Best for budget-conscious cyclers who want an entry-level indoor cycling bike for home workouts.

Why We Love It

Merach’s S26 Exercise Bike stands out for its smooth, silent ride and budget-friendly price. Its overall lightweight design makes it easy to set up. And once assembled, its compact size fits really well, even in small apartment spaces. Despite being more compact than other options we tested, this bike remains remarkably sturdy.

During test rides, we particularly appreciated the ergonomic handles, which offer a cushioned, comfortable grip even during long sessions. The magnetic resistance system provides a smooth experience at all intensities. Despite its budget-friendly price, this bike delivers dependable performance. We think it’s an excellent entry-level option.

Potential Flaws

We noticed that changing resistance levels mid-workout is slightly tricky, but we still think it’s a solid budget buy.
This bike offers limited features compared to more advanced models, which is expected at this price point.

Most Valuable Insight

“This bike is an excellent value. The price point is unmatched, and it is a great product that provides the basic needs and functions of a bike in the comfort of your own home.” —Jessica Christopher, Verywell Fit product tester

PHOTO: Equinox

Key Specs

Who It’s For

Best for those seeking a premium, studio-like cycling experience at home with advanced connectivity features.

Why We Love It

During our four-week testing period, we were consistently impressed with nearly everything about this bike—especially its hundreds of studio-feel on-demand classes. SoulCycle’s At-Home Bike will transport you to the iconic studio from the comfort and convenience of your home. It comes fully assembled with intuitive instructional videos on adjusting the seat and handlebars to your optimal height.

When we hopped on, the bike remained stable even during intense, high-resistance climbs. We love that you can filter classes by length, instructor, music type, and level to find the perfect ride each time. The crisp 21.5-inch touchscreen display tracks real-time stats like cadence, power, and distance. And we found that the resistance knob is conveniently located for easy adjustments mid-ride. We love streaming shows from Amazon Prime, Disney+, and Netflix when it’s time to slow down.

Potential Flaws

The bike is pricier than other options, but we think it’s worth it if you want an in-studio experience at home.
A membership purchase is required to access the full range of features, which adds to the overall cost.

Most Valuable Insight

“The display is impeccable! It’s crystal clear and extremely easy to navigate. It has SO many functions: You can stream Amazon Prime, Disney +, and Netflix, do Free Rides, and the bike tracks SO many stats and I loved that it noted on a calendar the days in which I rode.”—Michelle Parente, CYT, Verywell Fit editor and product tester

PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Michelle Parente
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Michelle Parente

PHOTO: Peloton

Key Specs

Editors’ Note: Peloton recently recalled 2.2 million exercise bikes due to safety concerns surrounding the bike’s seat post, per the US Consumer Product Safety Commission. The recall did not include the Peloton Bike+, only Bike models with the model number PL-01.

Who It’s For

Best if you want a comprehensive at-home cycling experience with access to live and on-demand classes.

Why We Love It

If you’re in the market for an indoor cycling bike, you’ve probably considered a Peloton model—but are they worth the cost? After testing, we vote yes, thanks to their reliable stability, innovative features, thousands of versatile workouts, and so much more. Peloton’s Bike + Essentials comes fully assembled and with dumbbells and a yoga mat—so you’re ready to get a full body workout right away.

The large, clear touchscreen display provides many helpful metrics in real time. And it integrates seamlessly with Peloton’s extensive library of live and on-demand classes. We also love that the membership unlocks access to personalized metrics tracking, allowing users to monitor their progress over time. Other standout features include accessible in-class metrics, auto-resistance, and connectivity with Apple Music and Spotify.

Potential Flaws

Despite its higher price point, the Peloton Bike + Essentials offers exceptional value for those committed to regular cycling workouts at home.
A Peloton membership is necessary to access the full range of features and classes, adding to the overall cost.

Most Valuable Insight

“If you’re going to spend money on one piece of workout equipment, this is it. It’s versatile, fun to use, and as long as you remember to buy the heart rate monitor and a padded seat cover, you’re in business.”—Donna Freydkin, Verywell Fit product tester

Verywell Fit / Donna Freydkin

PHOTO: Freebeat Fit

Key Specs

Who It’s For

Best for beginners who need an easy-to-use bike that they can grow into.

Why We Love It

Freebeat’s Lit Bike offers a variety of spin classes, as well as other off-the-bike workouts, that you can filter by length (15 or 30 minutes) and level (beginner, intermediate, or advanced). We like this option for beginners who want to get into cycling and have room to progress. And if you’re really up for the challenge, users can participate in competitions on the bike’s platform to win rewards like Amazon and Spotify gift cards and more—a great incentive to push yourself.

During testing, the bike proved easy to assemble and provided a stable, comfortable ride. It also includes unique features, like a touchscreen display that can rotate up to 180 degrees, a smart saddle that lifts and rises when seated or standing to help improve your form, and auto-resistance, which sets the resistance based on instructor cues.

Potential Flaws

The bike’s lack of compatibility with clipless cycling shoes may limit options for serious cyclists.
The membership will cost you an additional $39 per month, and it doesn’t feature any other connectivity or streaming services.

Most Valuable Insight

“There are rides for beginners, intermediates, and advanced riders, and it’s accurate for the experience level under which it’s classified. Based on your selection, you’ll be able to try many different workouts. There are spinning classes available, of course, but also classes that do not require any cycling, where you can use weights and simply stand next to the screen and follow along.“—Jessica Mahgerefteh, Verywell Fit product tester

Verywell Fit / Jessica Mahgerefteh

PHOTO: Stryde

Pros

Strong, stable base
Whisper quiet
Dual-sided pedals

Key Specs

Who It’s For

Best for versatile riders looking for a stable and smooth cycling experience.

Why We Love It

The Stryde Bike is a fully loaded machine, offering metric tracking during free rides, Netflix streaming, and compatibility with other fitness apps (like Peloton). Its large, crisp display lets you follow workout classes, watch shows, read emails, and more while you pedal. We also appreciate the bike’s dependable stability during seated sprints and standing climbs.

The seat and handlebars are easy to adjust, even for those new to cycling. And the dual-sided pedals mean you don’t need to spend extra on specialty cycling shoes if you don’t already have them. With its impressive performance and versatility, the Stryde Bike is a standout choice for anyone seeking a reliable indoor cycling bike.

Potential Flaws

The seat lacks some cushioning, but you can always purchase a separate padded bike seat.
If you choose to purchase a Stryde Membership (an additional $29 per month), you’ll also have access to hundreds of workouts and up to four user profiles.

Most Valuable Insight

“This bike is versatile and can be used for beginners, those who want to ride and watch Netflix, those who want to ride 20 minutes every few days, or those who want a high-intensity 45-minute climb every morning.” —Connor McDaniel, Verywell Fit product tester

PHOTO: Amazon

Cons

Lacks functional display
Not very adjustable

Key Specs

Who It’s For

Best for budget-conscious bikers who want a versatile bike for the whole family—especially if they live in a smaller space.

Why We Love It

Horizon Fitness 7.0 IC Indoor Cycle Bike stands out for its exceptional value, offering various easy-to-adjust resistance levels that cater to different levels. And its compact footprint fits easily in our small spaces. We think it’s particularly great for beginner cyclists or people who are more casual (yet still intentional) about their workouts since it’s rather basic but exceptionally stable. When it arrived, we found it easy to assemble and accessible to start cycling (even if you’re new to home fitness equipment).

During test rides, we noticed that the bike’s sturdy build and smooth operation provide a reliable and enjoyable workout experience. An ergonomically placed phone holder lets you follow online cycling classes, stream your favorite shows, and even read emails while you pedal. We also love that two bottle cages give easy access to hydration.

Potential Flaws

This bike doesn’t have a display screen or metric tracking, but its overall performance makes up for that if you want a basic bike.
While it’s not highly adjustable, the bike’s design still comfortably accommodates a range of users.

Most Valuable Insight

“It’s a good bike for under $1000. The display is nothing to note, but the bike itself is very functional for a spin workout. It does everything I needed it to do and did it well.”—Jodi Espinosa, Verywell Fit product tester

NordicTrack Commercial S22i Studio Cycle

PHOTO: Dick’s Sporting Goods

Key Specs

Who It’s For

Best for cycling enthusiasts looking to replicate an outdoor bike experience indoors.

Why We Love It

Unlike many other indoor cycling bikes on the market, NordicTrack’s S22i Bike allows you to adjust the resistance and the incline, providing a more realistic feel. This, along with the option to stream scenic workouts from the 22-inch touchscreen display, makes this pick ideal for enjoying an outdoor cycling experience from the comfort and convenience of your home.

During testing, we loved using the crisp display to track metrics and follow workouts. And we appreciated that, like the Peleton, this bike features auto-adjusting resistance and incline controlled by the instructor during class—a feature you can always override if needed. A huge plus—this bike proved whisper-quiet even during intense rides.

Potential Flaws

We noticed that the bike wobbles slightly during intense climbs, but we never felt unsafe.
If you want full access to classes, you’ll have to purchase an iFit membership separately.

Most Valuable Insight

“The bike has an adjustable incline, which is insane—it makes workouts so much harder, and I didn’t realize how non-challenging the Peloton was until I tried this feature.”—Donna Freydkin, Verywell Fit product tester

PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Michael Navarro
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Michael Navarro

PHOTO: Amazon

Key Specs

Who It’s For

Best for beginners, seniors, and other cyclers who prefer an upright bike for added accessibility and comfort.

Why We Love It

Upright bikes are similar to regular bikes, except the seats are wider, and the handlebars are closer to you, allowing you to sit with a more (you guessed it) upright posture. Schwinn’s 190 Upright Bike is more compact (great if you’re in a smaller space) and more comfortable for those with back problems. We loved the well-padded, fully adjustable seat and handlebars for even more comfort.

When the bike first arrived at our homes, it proved simple to set up. And, all the controls are highly intuitive. The manual resistance system allows easy adjustments, catering to different fitness levels and ride types. Additionally, with a JRNY membership, you gain access to dozens of workout programs you can follow on your device directly from the device holder.

Potential Flaws

Upright bikes aren’t ideal for intense workouts because of the lower resistance and seated posture, but this one makes a great choice for beginners or seniors.

Most Valuable Insight

“Before this one, I wasn’t interested in riding our exercise bike because the seat was too uncomfortable, I got bored, and I didn’t feel like I was getting a good workout. The most impressive thing that this bike has accomplished is that it makes me want to use the bike.”—Hildara Araya, Verywell Fit product tester

PHOTO: Spinning

Key Specs:

Who It’s For

Best for beginner to intermediate riders living in apartments or with other household members.

Why We Love It

If you live in close quarters with others or you have multiple family members in your house, you need a quiet exercise machine. We recommend Spinning’s Aero Connected Spinner Bike because we found it to be super smooth and quiet during testing. We also appreciated its wide range of resistance levels to accommodate all fitness levels. We noted in testing that the bike felt very stable and secure—no wobbling or shaking at all—and the transitions between speeds and resistance levels were seamless and quick. For our beginner tester, this bike was quite easy to use.

The seat and handlebars adjust easily to fit riders from 4’11” to 6’4″, and the seat itself was comfortable enough that we didn’t need any additional cushioning. The Spinning app (you get a free 30-day trial with the bike) has challenging workouts, and we like the engaging instructors who make the workouts fun. The cadence sensor and heart rate monitor that come with the bike connect via Bluetooth and display your metrics on the app. We appreciated the two water bottle holders, so staying hydrated is no issue. The guidebook helped with proper positioning and offered dos and don’ts for beginners.

Potential Flaws

This bike is versatile and a good value but we would appreciate a built-in screen instead of having to use our own devices for workout streaming and metrics.

Most Valuable Insight

“It fits all shapes, sizes and abilities of riders and has the feel of a real road bike. You can use regular sneakers or cycling shoes. The ride is really smooth and quiet.” —Stacey Wegner, Verywell Fit product tester

We Also Tested

We tested a total of 26 indoor cycling bikes, but only 10 made it to our final list of recommendations. While these had some noteworthy features, they ultimately fell short.

NordicTrack’s Commercial Studio Cycle S15i Bike features a robust build and a wide range of resistance levels, making it suitable for various workout intensities. Despite these strengths, its higher price point and occasional connectivity issues prevented it from making the top list.
While Horizon Fitness’ 5.0R Recumbent Bike offers a variety of workouts and has a rather informative display screen for metrics, we found some issues that cut it from our list. The seat is uncomfortable, the stability is lackluster for prolonged rides, and the adjustment options need improvement (the seat only moves forward and back).
Merach’s S09 Auto Resistance Bike impressed us with its quiet and compact performance, which makes it ideal for home settings. However, it lacks comfort and stability, two hugely important factors to consider when purchasing exercise bikes.
Horizon Fitness’ 5.01C Indoor Cycling Bike is stable and offers smooth transitions. We liked the road bike feel and the ease of changing resistance levels. However, we found the seat uncomfortable and difficult to adjust. We also noted the display was hard to navigate.
We liked the stability, quietness, and resistance range of Sunny Health & Fitness’ SMART Magnetic Resistance Bike. But, we found the handlebars uncomfortable and not ergonomic at all. We were also disappointed that the app is not very interactive and the performance metrics were lacking in monitoring some key metrics.

Verywell Fit / Jessica Christopher

What We’ve Updated

Since our last time updating this article, we’ve tested several new exercise bikes, some of which have outperformed our old picks. We continue to test indoor cycling bikes to ensure our recommendations reflect the latest offerings in the market.
While initially impressive, YOSUDA’s Indoor Cycling Bike showed stability issues during intense rides and a lack of display and connectivity features. Our new best budget choice, Merach’s S26 Exercise Bike, excels in stability, comfort, and value. It also provides access to free training apps, setting it even further ahead.
We also sought guidance from two new experts, including a certified personal trainer and master cycling instructor. Their insights have been instrumental in ensuring our advice on choosing and training with an indoor cycling bike is the most current and reliable.
Based on our long-term testing and the addition of more bikes to our test, we recently added more insights to our Best Overall selection, as well as added a new bike to the list as our Best Quiet selection.

Verywell Fit / Rozalynn S. Frazier

What to Look for When Shopping for an Indoor Cycling Bike

Resistance: When shopping for an indoor cycling bike, consider the type of resistance system it uses—magnetic or friction. Magnetic resistance is quieter, requires less maintenance, and offers smoother transitions between resistance levels. On the other hand, friction resistance is often more affordable and provides a broader range of resistance. Consider your workout needs and preferences when deciding which system suits you.
Pedals: Some indoor cycling bikes feature toe-caged pedals that allow you to wear your regular sneakers or cycling shoes and simply slip your feet into the pedals. Others have clip-in pedals that require clipless cleats or cycling shoes. This type of pedal helps some riders to feel more secure and at one with their bike. But if your indoor cycling bike doesn’t have the pedals you’re looking for, it’s an easy and, in most cases, inexpensive fix.
Workout Modes: Like treadmills, classic ellipticals, and other fitness machines, indoor bikes can boast a range of pre-set workout modes. If you prefer a choose-your-own-adventure workout where you’re in control of your settings, these modes may not matter much to you. But if you prefer a guided workout, pay attention to this feature.
Comfort: Comfort is critical, says certified cycling instructor Brooke Lutsch. If your bike is comfy, you’ll be more likely to use it on a regular basis. To ensure comfort, look for a bike with cushioned seats, padded handlebars, and wide petals. Ensuring these are adjustable can also help you customize your fit.
High-Tech Features: Many indoor bikes come with high-tech features like speakers, fans, and pivoting monitors. Displays that feature your speed (RPM) and power output (wattage) are always helpful for gauging your workout, says cycling expert Tammeca Rochester. These nice-to-haves may not be necessary, but they can make a workout more fun. Don’t be shy in seeking out features that will motivate you to spend more time on your bike.

Verywell Fit / Jodi Espinosa

How We Tested the Indoor Cycling Bikes

We tested 26 indoor cycling bikes at home in our regular workout routines. We performed at least eight cycling workouts on each bike, completing at least two weekly rides for four weeks. During testing, we evaluated each indoor cycling bike based on the following criteria:

Stability: First, we assess how stable each indoor bike feels during both slow and intense rides. We also test the bike’s ability to handle quick changes in intensity or speed, both in and out of the saddle. We take note of any instability or wobbling, examining if the bike’s base is wide and heavy enough to support vigorous exercise. We also check for adjustable leveling feet to stabilize the bike on uneven floors.
Performance: Next, we evaluate the smoothness and quietness of the bike’s operation during use. We also note adjustable resistance, seats, and handlebars. We want each bike to accommodate various levels and workout intensities. Some bikes simulate a real-world outdoor cycling experience, so we also pay attention to the ride’s feel during uphill climbs and high-intensity sprints. We also take note of any additional features, like metric tracking, and how well they work.
Adjustability: For bikes that offer adjustability, we use these features and consider how easy they are to use. Is it simple to adjust the seat and handlebars to fit different body sizes? Can you adjust the resistance during your workout without stopping? We also identify any limitations to adjustability that could affect usability for some users.
Comfort: If you’re uncomfortable on your bike, you won’t want to use it. Next, we consider how comfy the bike seat feels during short and long rides. We note whether you’ll need to purchase an additional padded bike seat to feel comfortable while riding. We also determine whether the handlebars are ergonomically designed to prevent strain on the wrists and arms and whether the bike accommodates standard cycling shoes or only specific types.
Display: For bikes with display screens, we evaluate their clarity and readability and whether they show relevant data, such as speed, distance, time, calories burned, and heart rate. We also check for connectivity features, like third-party app integration, and whether you need to purchase a membership to access the display’s features. Finally, we pay attention to the user-friendliness of the interface.
Value: At the end of the testing period, we compare each indoor bike’s price range ($300 to $2499, with a median of $1399) to its performance and features. We consider whether we would pay this much for the bike or possibly even more. We also evaluate if we would buy the bike on sale, how likely we would use it regularly, and whether we would recommend it to others.

Verywell Fit / Michael Navarro

Our Experts

We consulted experts during our research and reporting for this story. Some helped us better understand what key features are important to look for when shopping, while others helped inform our testing process. While we always choose products independently, our experts help enhance our recommendations.

Brooke Lutsch, certified cycling instructor at Cyclebar in Nashville, Tennessee
Tammeca Rochester, owner and founder of Harlem Cycle in New York City, New York
Karen Maxwell, ACE-certified personal trainer and senior master instructor at CycleBar
Gabryelle Pogantsch, founder of Sevven Cycle in Madison, Wisconsin

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I set up my home exercise bike correctly?

When setting up your indoor exercise bike, start by placing it on a level surface to ensure stability. Next, adjust the seat height so that there’s a slight bend in your knee when the pedal is at its lowest point. Then, set the handlebars at a height that allows you to reach them easily with a relaxed grip.

What should I wear while indoor cycling?

Wear padded cycling shorts or workout leggings, a breathable performance shirt, moisture-wicking socks, and comfortable cycling shoes.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Jarrod Nobbe, a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and fitness content writer, brings years of expertise in testing fitness, cardio, and strength equipment. His extensive cycling experience, both competitively and for personal training, lends credibility to his evaluations of indoor cycling bikes. With over a decade of using and testing indoor cycling bikes for his own training and that of athletes and clients, Jarrod’s insights are well-founded and reliable. His commitment to fitness and thorough understanding of cycling equipment ensure you get the best advice for your indoor cycling needs.

Additional reporting by Michelle Parente.

Michelle Parente, CYT, is a New York City-based yoga sculpt instructor and lifestyle journalist specializing in health, wellness, and fitness content. As an editor for Verywell Fit, Michelle is committed to providing thoroughly researched and reliable product recommendations. She participated in our real-world indoor cycling bikes test, pedaling on SoulCycle’s At-Home Bike. Michelle has tackled dozens of rides on her new favorite bike wearing SoulCycle x PEARL IZUMI’s Legend 2.0 Cycling Shoes.

The 10 Best Indoor Cycling Bikes of 2024, Tested

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Who It’s For

Why We Love It

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Key Specs:

Who It’s For

Why We Love It

Potential Flaws

Most Valuable Insight

We Also Tested

What We’ve Updated

What to Look for When Shopping for an Indoor Cycling Bike

How We Tested the Indoor Cycling Bikes

Our Experts

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I set up my home exercise bike correctly?

What should I wear while indoor cycling?

Why Trust Verywell Fit

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