Best Spin Bike Reviews and Indoor Cycle Comparisons - Top 10 Picks for 2017

Have you ever gone to the gym and wondered why the exercise machines there look so much cooler than the cheap one your aunt or uncle purchased (but never uses) years ago? Think about it: the machines at the gym get used by tons of people, every single day. Yet they last forever!

You’re probably thinking: “Well, that’s because those machines cost thousands of dollars.” And you’re right. Some of them do. But not all!

As a matter of fact, you can get the same, high quality commercial spin bike for less than a grand. To save you time, we’ve researched and examined the best indoor bike that’s fitness studio level, but costs less than those outrageously expensive machines in the gym.

Are you ready for the L Now Pro Indoor Cycle Trainer LD577? Let’s take a closer look.

Design:

• Size: 46” L × 21” W x 52” H
• Appearance: Sporty
• Flywheel: 50 lbs.
• Drive System: Belt
• Digital Display: LCD Screen Monitor (RPM, time, distance, heart rate, speed)
• Special Features: Bottle holder, wheels on base

The L Now LD577 is designed to support the most intense spin workouts. And you immediately can tell because of its quality build. The frame is thick and made of steel for stability. It can handle the strongest momentums and prevent the bike from shaking when you’re pedaling hard. Standing slightly taller than its competitors, it also has the heaviest flywheel out of all our top picks – a whopping 50 pounds! This gives you the smoothest and most enjoyable pedaling experience.

The seat is a lot bigger and has more padding than many other models which makes it very comfortable. Your butt will thank you in the long run. Many cheap indoor cycle bikes in the market have small or hard seats. You can sit through a long spin workout without feeling like your butt’s going numb.

The handlebars have a comfortable grip made of rubber and foam. It also has sensors so that you can monitor your pulse.

One of the best attributes is that the bike uses a belt drive. What’s the advantage of that over a chain drive, you ask? Well, it’s a lot quieter. Pedaling is basically silent. You don’t have to deal with that obnoxious noise a lot of exercise machines make. This is perfect if you live in an apartment because you won’t annoy your neighbors. If you live in a house, you won’t bother family members during your workout. A belt drive also requires minimal maintenance because it doesn’t require lubrication.

Weight & Height Range:

• Max. weight = 551 lbs.
• Height Range = 5′ 0″ – 6′ 5″

Adjustability:

Easy to adjust. The handlebars and seat are both 4-way adjustable. That means you can scooch closer, back the seat up, raise the handlebars, or lower it – any way you like to fit your physique.

Resistance is easily controlled by twisting the knob on top of the bike’s frame.

Price:

At just under $1000, this is without a doubt a worthy investment you’ll be happy with. If you’re looking for one cardio machine for your home, the L Now LD577 will give you much more value for the money you spend.  

Bottom Line:

I highly recommend this to serious riders or people who want to upgrade from a lower quality cardio machine. It competes with top indoor cycling bikes that sell for thousands of dollars but is at a much better price point. It can handle any workout, from casual riding to the most intense spinning workout. Whether you’re standing or sitting, this machine will not budge while you pedal.

Taking the #2 spot is the Keiser M3i. And rightly so! The original M3 indoor bike revolutionized indoor cycling. Keiser is one of the top fitness product companies and has been on the cutting edge of its industry. More than 80% of top professional sports teams in the world train with Keiser machines. The Navy Seals, NASA, medical experts, rehab specialists, and gym franchises all use Keiser! That’s quite a reputable list.

The M3i is the newest version of the M3 spin bike – it’s an innovative improvement to meet the demands and needs of your workouts.

Design:

• Size: 49” L × 26” W x 45” H
• Appearance: Sleek
• Flywheel: 8 lbs.
• Drive System: Belt
• Digital Display: Automatic backlit display (Backlight sensor, RPM, WATTS, heart rate, elapsed time, gear/resistance level, odometer/trip distance)
• Special Features: Bluetooth connectivity, wheels on base for transport, bottle holder, media tray to hold your phone or device, transportation wheels

So here’s something that may initially confuse you: the Keiser M3i has one of the lightest flywheels. It’s only 8 pounds. The consensus among users is that a light flywheel causes uneven pedal strokes, which essentially increases your risk of joint stress and injury. You want to avoid cheap spin bikes with a light flywheel because they are terribly designed and are ultimately a waste of money

The Keiser M3i, however, is an exception. A lighter flywheel spins faster. And Keiser has designed this bike to provide riders with the perfect amount of inertia and one of the smoothest pedaling experiences. Part of that reason is that it has an electronically controlled magnetic resistance system. There’s a lot of science behind why and how this works with the Keiser M3i. I won’t bore you with all the nerdy, esoteric details. But click here to get the full explanation.

From a design standpoint, Keiser chose to position the flywheel at the rear of the bike to protect it from corrosion. This means less maintenance and ensures the bike’s longevity.

Two features that really set this model apart from others:

1.     Poly-V belt – stimulates one of the best road bike experiences. Transmits very high loads over very small pulleys. Zero maintenance or adjustments needed.
2.     Bluetooth connectivity – allows you to connect your phone to apps, such as GoInd (an indoor cycling app that monitors your training and saves your progress). Studies have shown that fitness tracking provides accountability, accuracy, and motivation.

Weight & Height Range:

• Max. weight = 350 lbs.
• Height Range = 4′ 10″ – 7′ 0″

Keiser M3i is the king of accommodating people of all heights.

Adjustability:

The frame is a V-shape to mimic road bike frames. This gives you ultimate adjustability in conjunction with the option to raise/lower the handlebars and seat.

Price:

This is the most expensive out of all our top 10 picks. While it may be a deal breaker for some, you will get SO MUCH in return. When shopping, you may notice that there are more expensive options available. But this is the absolute best indoor cycling bike for your home that you can get your hands on.

Bottom Line:

Technologically advanced. Innovative. If you want that extra motivation to push you through the most grueling workouts, the M3i is for you. This is a top of the line product that is trusted by users all over the world. It’s also one of the few exercise machines made in the United States.

I recommend this for beginners because it’ll honestly be the only spinner bike you’ll ever need to buy. It’s the best choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts if a higher price point is not an issue. Lastly, the M3i is also great for the elderly who wish to achieve better health and improve their mobility and strength. As far as top rated exercise bikes go, this one’s right up there!

The Fitness Reality X-Class 710 is a wonderful option for your home gym. The best part is that it’s at a mid-price point. It comes in a bright orange exterior. If you want your spin bicycle to have a little bit of personality, this one is for you. On top of that, you get the same intense, gym quality workout.

Design:

• Size: 44” L × 26” W x 49” H
• Appearance: Really orange
• Flywheel: 44 lbs.
• Drive System: Belt
• Digital Display: 5-panel display (elapsed time, distance, RPM, calories burned, speed)
• Special Features: Tablet/media holder, bottle holder, transportation wheels

The length of Fitness Reality X-Class 710 is not as long as the Keiser M3i and L Now LD577. But it’s still very sturdy because of its solid steel frame. The stability also comes from the rear bottom because of its curved design. Stand up pedaling is never an issue due to the support it provides.

The seat is big and airsoft with air chambers for comfort. It does an excellent job keeping you cool, even when you’re working out for a long time.

With a heavy, 44 pound flywheel, this model runs on a belt drive system (which is always preferred because it gives you the smoothest and quietest ride). The resistance is your standard, manual resistance system. Like most of its competitors, the tension is controlled by twisting a knob, located in the middle of the main frame. You can pedal both forward and backwards. As far as maintenance goes, there is a 3 piece crank system that prevents any maintenance issues.

A unique feature is the hybrid pedals, which increases your power and foot comfort.

Weight & Height Range:

Max. weight = 300 lbs.

Height Range = 5′ 0″ – 6′ 4″

Adjustability:

Both the handlebars and seat are 4-way adjustable.

Price:

The X-Class 710 is set at the mid-range price point. If you’re looking for a good quality indoor bike that not only looks great but offers great performance, this is a great choice.

Bottom Line:

The Fitness Reality X-Class 710 is not the most advanced, but it’s way better than the cheaper models. I recommend this if you want a reliable spinner bike that checks off all the essential qualities you need, without having to compromise on your budget. You’ll get many uses and sessions out of this little guy. It doesn’t have as many features as the Keiser M3i, nor is it built as well as L Now LD577. But one area this bike beats those two is with its price point. It’s great value for what you pay for.

Design:

Let’s be honest: this indoor spinning bike is not the most aesthetically appealing. It reminds me of a kid’s bicycle I used to ride when I was 9 years old. The blue and white colors and overall appearance remind me of Sub-Zero, a Mortal Kombat ninja. Many sites claim that it is attractive. But that’s not true. Especially if you compare it to higher end models (I have standards, ok? You know you like good looking things too.)

But there are very good reasons why the Exerpeutic LX7 comes in at #4 of our top spin bike picks for 2017. If you can disregard its appearance, or if looks don’t really matter to you, this is a fabulous bike at an affordable price.

• Size: 49” L × 20” W x 49” H
• Appearance: Tacky
• Flywheel: 40 lbs.
• Drive System: Chain
• Digital Display: LCD Computer Display (distance, calories burned, elapsed time, speed, heart rate)
• Special Features: Bottle holder, transportation wheels

The flywheel is cast iron with a chrome rim at a sturdy 40 pounds. It’s a chain drive system so you’ll need to make sure it’s properly lubricated to ensure it runs smoothly. For a chain drive system, this indoor exercise bike is surprisingly a quiet ride.

You can control the resistance by adjusting the dial tension for a more progressive and challenging workout. It also functions as an emergency brake.

Something to keep in mind is that this doesn’t have a media tray or any type of holder for your mobile device.

Weight & Height Range:

Max. weight = 300 lbs.

Height Range = 5′ 2″ – 6′ 2″

Adjustability:

The handle bars are covered in soft foam with heart pulse sensors. It allows you to adjust upward and downward before locking into one of three different positions.

The seat is 4-way adjustable. While the Exerpeutic LX7 does take ergonomics into consideration, the seat is slightly uncomfortable. You can solve this problem by wearing bike shorts or adding a gel pad to cover the seat for added comfort.

Price:

This is on the higher end of entry level prices.

Bottom Line:

The Exerpeutic LX7 is by no means perfect. But it is an excellent addition for your home workout space if you’re looking for an exercise bike at an affordable price. If you’re a casual spinner, beginner, or someone who just wants to get a good workout in a few times a week, this is an excellent bike for you. It can handle any of your tough workouts. For a low price, impressively silent ride, and overall performance, it’s a great pick for the budget conscious.  

Design:

Sunny Health & Fitness have so many options to choose from! This company currently has 26 different cycle bikes for you to choose from – it’s overwhelming. But after comparing and contrasting various models they have to offer, we’ve come to the conclusion that the SF-B1423 is the best model that Sunny Health & Fitness offers. Set it up in your home! Your office! Anywhere!

• Size: 47” L × 20” W x 44” H
• Appearance: Minimalistic
• Flywheel: 40 lbs.
• Drive System: Belt
• Digital Display: LCD monitor (elapsed time, speed, distance, calories burned, scan mode)
• Special Features: Bottle holder, transportation wheels

The SF-B1423 is beautiful and has a minimalistic look. With a strong, steel frame, it doesn’t move around or shake while you pedal. The flywheel on this model is a solid 40 pounds. It usually gets harder and harder to find one with a belt drive system as the price of the product goes down. We were surprised to find that the SF-B1423 is belt driven, even though it costs a lot less than competitors.

And that’s why we love this bike. You get all the benefits of a belt drive without spending tons of money. Silent. Smooth. Consistent.

You can switch up the intensity of your workout with the tension knob on top of the main frame by twisting it to increase or decrease the resistance.

The digital monitor doesn’t display all of your stats at once. You have to scroll through them one by one. In case you don’t want to scroll through, it does have a scan mode which shows you one stat at a time and is continuously repeated.

The seat is wider than a lot of other indoor cycling bikes. So if you’re used to riding on a narrow seat, this may feel weird to you. Other than that, it offers great support and only takes a little bit of time to get used to. Comfort is decent. Not the best, but not the worst.

Weight & Height Range:

• Max. weight = 250 lbs.
• Height Range = Adjustable inseam height: Max. 36 in / Min. 27 in

Sunny Health & Fitness chose not to disclose the height range information. Instead, they’ve provided a maximum and minimum inseam height. According to users, people between 5’ 2” – 6’ 4” did not run into height problems.

A con to this spinner bike is that it only accommodates a maximum weight of 250 pounds. The weight capacity is on the lower end compared to others.

Adjustability:

To adjust the seat, you twist a knob to move it backward, forwards, up, and down. The handle bars only move up and down.

Price:

Very affordable!

Bottom Line:

It’s impressive how affordable it is. The main reason seems to be that adjustability is compromised for the perks of having a belt drive. If you want maximum adjustability and the benefits of a belt drive, you’re going to have to look into spending more money.

Ultimately, this is a great choice for you if you prefer a minimalist design, but want a bike that runs quiet and smooth. Great for both beginners and advanced riders.

Marcy is a company founded by Walter Marcyan in 1959.

Who is Walter, you ask? He’s an AAU Light Heavyweight Lifting Champion. He used to train at Muscle Beach – a famous training facility for many legendary bodybuilders (Example: Arnold Schwarzenegger). Walter believed that everyone should have the opportunity and the knowledge to exercise at home with their own, professional grade equipment.

Which is why he’s created an affordable, and efficient indoor spinning bike for your home: the Marcy XJ-3220.

Design:

• Size: 40” L × 20.5” W x 43” H
• Appearance: Urban
• Flywheel: 40 lbs.
• Drive System: Chain
• Digital Display: None
• Special Features: Bottle holder, adjustable basket pedals, transportation wheels

The Marcy XJ-3220 has a hip, urban appearance and is one of the smaller spin bikes on our top 10 picks.

The frame is made of durable steel. You won’t have any issues with stability – it doesn’t rock back and forth. The flywheel is balanced at 40 pounds, offering you a steady motion throughout your workout. It is a chain drive, so regular inspections are recommended to ensure that it runs optimally. Despite its petite size, this bike makes a loud noise. But if you’re watching TV or you’re listening to music during your workout, the noise won’t trouble you.

Crank up the intensity up a notch or bring it down if you’re dying from your workout. You can adjust the resistance and tailor it to how much you want to feel the burn by twisting the resistance knob. This knob also doubles as an easy break mechanism to quickly stop the wheel’s motion.

Unfortunately, the Marcy XJ-3220 does not have a digital display to show you any stats. You may need an external source (like an app on your phone) if you want to track your workout.

If you’re already used to road bikes, this seat will feel familiar because it’s designed like a road bike style saddle. For most people, it may feel narrow and uncomfortable but it’s something you can easily fix by putting a cover on the seat.

Weight & Height Range:

• Max. weight = 300 lbs.
• Height Range = 5′ 0″ – 6′ 0″

Adjustability:

Handlebars are adjustable up and down. The seat is 4-way adjustable.

Price:

Great, low price!

Bottom Line:

Have you taken cycling classes before, but don’t have the time to accommodate your schedule to those classes? Or maybe you love cycling outside but want the option to cycle indoors as well. Then the Marcy XJ-3220 is a great choice, at a temptingly low price point. This indoor cycle is also a smart choice if space is a consideration for you. Great for small spaces. On the other hand, if noise is an issue, this may not be the best option.  

Are you looking for the most budget friendly spinner bike to get your cardio workout in for the day, without having to buy one that’s low-quality or cheaply made?

Well guess what? Your search has come to an end. The Merax Pro Fitness Indoor Cycling Trainer is one of the best indoor bikes if you’re looking for something more affordable. What’s even better, is that despite its low price, it offers a lot more than you’d expect.

Design:

• Size: 38.4” L x 42.5” H
• Appearance: Rock & Roll
• Flywheel: 30 lbs.
• Drive System: Chain
• Digital Display: LCD monitor (Elapsed time, speed, distance, calories burned, scan)
• Special Features: Bottle holder, transportation wheels

The fire symbol on this flywheel will catch your eye and attention! Merax will get you rocking & rolling. And spinning. You have two color options: black & red. Or black & yellow.

At 30 pounds, this chromed flywheel gives the casual spinner just the right amount of stability. This bike runs small and is extremely space friendly. Resistance is controlled by a twist knob on the middle of the frame.

The seat is leather padded.

At this price point, I didn’t expect this bike to have a digital display. But it does! Similar to the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B1423, it gives you the option to put the display on scan mode. In other words, this is definitely an indoor cycle machine!

Weight & Height Range:

• Max. Weight = 275 lbs.
• Height Range = N/A

Adjustability:

The seat allows you 4-way adjustments. Handlebars are adjustable up and down.

Price:

Crazy low price (cheapest one out of our top 10 picks)! You and your wallet will be happy with this pick.

Bottom Line:

An incredible bike for a beginner who doesn’t want to invest in a pro-level machine, but also doesn’t want to waste money on a gym membership. The Merox Pro is the most affordable out of our top 10 picks, without sacrificing quality. I can’t say that this is an ideal choice for serious athletes. It may not be able to handle super intense workout sessions. But for less than $200, you can have your own spin bicycle in the comfort of your home. Excellent bike for the money.   

Design:

• Size: 48” L × 18” W x 42” H
• Appearance: Classic Metallic
• Flywheel: 31 lbs.
• Drive System: Chain
• Digital Display: None
• Special Features: Bottle holder, transportation wheels

The Spinner S3’s frame is a powder-coated steel for rust resistance. It protects against sweat and moisture. Super stable with a durable frame for any style of workout. The flywheel is 31 pounds and is perimeter-weighted. For a chain drive, it isn’t very loud. You may hear the vibrations, but it’s not as noisy as cheaper models. The twist knob provides precise resistance adjustments and a quick stop ability.

Here’s an incredible bonus for choosing this bike over others: it comes with 4 free spinning DVDs. These DVDs provide you guided workouts and general tips for spinning. The 4 DVDs are titled:

• Train and Tone
• Ultimate Energy
• Maximum Results
• Turn and Burn

While the Spinner S3 doesn’t come with a digital display, you can get one that was specifically made by the same company: “Spinning BIO Wireless Computer.”

The great thing about the Spinner S3 is that it caters towards people who are as short as 4’ 10”. It’s difficult to find spin bikes for those who are shorter. The Keiser M3i is great at accommodating a wide height range, but it’s also nearly 4x the price of the Spinner S3.

This bike does not have a tray or a separate place designated for your media devices. So if you are planning on propping up a tablet or phone, you may need to look into alternative methods.

Weight & Height Range:

• Max. weight = 250 lbs.
• Height Range = 4′ 10″ – 6′ 0″

Adjustability:

The seat is a padded saddle that allows you 4-way adjustments. It provides any rider a comfortable experience, day after day.

Handlebars are only adjustable up and down, but you can’t adjust the handlebars too high. It may be a minor annoyance for taller people.

The seat is 4-way adjustable, but there have been some complaints about the seat not adjusting high enough for those who are taller or have longer legs.

Price:

The price is set at a mid-point. The quality and stability are unparalleled.

Bottom Line:

Although it may not be the best option if you’re on the taller side, this is still a quality spin bike. While it does accommodate people up to 6’ 0” tall, the handlebars and seat aren’t adjustable to maximize comfort for tall riders. For short people – this is an amazing choice for you.

Perfect for any rider on a budget – a phenomenal mid price exercise bike. Maybe you’re tired of your boring, old treadmill and need to spice up your workouts. The Spinner S3 will provide you new and fun workout options.

Price may be the most important factor for you. If you want an exercise bike that still gives you great value for your money, the Progear 100S is your best option as it is the 2nd most budget friendly from our top 10 recommendations.

Design:

Size: 40” L × 22” W x 46” H

Appearance: Simple

Flywheel: 22 lbs.

Drive System: Chain

Digital Display: LCD computer (calories burned, distance, time, speed, pulse, and scan mode)

Special Features: Bottle holder, transportation wheels

The Progear 100S colors and overall look is very similar to the Exerpeutic LX7. I’m not a huge fan of the aesthetics, but when you’re going for a budget deal, you can’t complain too much about appearances. At this low price point, performance matters most.   

The bike has a 22 pound, cast iron inertia drive flywheel. Other than the Keiser M3i, this is the lightest flywheel out of all of our spin bike picks. The chain drive simulates a road bike exercise. The mechanisms are totally different between these two models. Which is why the Keiser M3i can handle high speeds. Progear 100S, on the other hand, can’t handle top speeds. With that in mind, it’s still stable enough for a moderately intense workout.

Adjust between 2 resistance levels by tweaking the easy dial tension for a more progressive and challenging workout. This also works as a top down emergency brake.

It’s probably due to the low cost of this model, but the seat is really uncomfortable. We recommend that you look into some sort of padding to put on the seat.

Weight & Height Range:

Max. weight = 250 lbs.

Height Range = 5′ 1″ – 6′ 2″

Adjustability:

The seat allows you 4-way adjustments.

Price:

Very low price! Extremely budget friendly.

Bottom Line:

This doesn’t have a lot of features, but it’s great for a beginner who wants to lose weight, improve cardio, and get some toned legs. If you’re a cyclist who loves riding outdoors but wants a backup spin bike for indoor workouts, this is a super cheap option for you. Don’t let rainy days or a snow blizzard stop you from your regular workout routine. It’s also a great option for someone who just wants to vary their workouts. Instead of the treadmill or rowing machine, why not go for a spin? It’s perfect for frequent, moderate exercises.

This indoor cycle will exceed your expectations. No, it’s not as nice as a premium bike that’s $1000 or even $500. But for what you’re paying? You’re getting one of the greatest deals.

Our last recommendation for you is another Sunny Health & Fitness spin bike. It was inevitable – this company has a ridiculous number of options to choose from! The SF-B1002 truly stands out amongst the rest, and even against others in its own Sunny Health & Fitness family. Here are the reasons why:

Design:

• Size: 44” L × 20” W x 44” H
• Appearance: Surfer
• Flywheel: 49 lbs.
• Drive System: Belt
• Digital Display: None
• Special Features: Bottle holder, transportation wheels

The flywheel on this bike is a giant beast! Other than our #1 pick, L Now LD577, this flywheel is the heaviest. At 49 pounds, it’s only a pound short of the L Now LD577. This ensures no jerky or out of control movements, regardless of speed or resistance level. It provides you an incredibly smooth riding experience. Moreover, the belt drive on this bike gives you a quiet ride.

A problem with indoor spinning bikes at a lower price range is that it’s hard to reach a gear hard enough to truly stimulate climbing an actual hill on your bike. But this bike has more than enough tension to replicate pedaling up a difficult hill.

The seat and handlebars are on the cheaper side so you may want to look into upgrading those if you want them to match the quality of this spin bike.

One other downside is that this does not come with a digital display to monitor your workouts.   

Weight & Height Range:

Max. weight = 275 lbs.

Height Range = N/A

In classic Sunny Health & Fitness tradition, the height range is not provided. As long as you’re not really short or tall, you won’t have a problem.

Adjustability:

Seat adjustment is 4-way adjustable. Handlebars are up and down only.

Price:

Affordable price. Not the cheapest. But on the lower end of a mid-price spin bike.

Bottom Line:

On the whole, this is a rock-solid, well made, good looking bike for a terrific price. A great pick for riders who are just starting out, serious cyclists, or athletes. The flywheel itself gives you more than you pay for. For the price, it’s comparable to a lot of the spin bikes you see at the gym.

If you think you can’t get a heart pounding workout on an indoor bicycle, you’ve never pedaled the calories away on a spin bike. We’ve spent hours trying out the top rated exercise bikes, and found that they are more than capable of delivering an effective cardio workout. Spinning bikes are also safer to use than traditional bicycles, and are more effective than stationary models.

They can even come with a variety of features that will make pedaling in place fun. Resistance can often be adjusted to safely increase the intensity of the workout, and to ensure that you work up a sweat. You can even get models with computer displays that allow you to join in with a live spinning class from home. If this sounds like the perfect exercise machine, keep reading to find the right one for you.

Why You Should Use a Spinning Bike

Did you know that spinning for 45 minutes could burn up to 500 calories? This is not the only benefit associated with a spinning workout. If you’re still unsure whether or not a spin bike is the right exercise machine for you, here are a few more reasons why you should give one a try.

• Burn calories
• Tone and strengthen muscles
• Improve cardio health
• Relieve stress

Spinning also comes with several advantages that you won’t find on a traditional bike.

1. Since a spin bike is typically used indoors, the weather will never be a problem.
2. Spinning is classified as a “low-impact exercise”. Unlike jogging and some other types of aerobic exercise, there is noticeably less strain put on your joints. Not only does this reduce your risk for certain injuries, it makes spinning a smart choice for anyone suffering from arthritis.
3. Most indoor cycles allow you to track your progress, which can be a great motivator. You can monitor distance covered, along with number of calories burned. Some models can even track heart rate.

Exercising on a spin bike can improve your overall health, but there are a few disadvantages that you should be aware of. If your goal is to lose a substantial amount of weight, spinning won’t be enough, you will need to incorporate other types of exercises in your workout plan.

Although spinning will tone and strengthen lower body muscles, it does little for your upper body. The other disadvantage is that it can get boring pedaling in one place.

Getting Your First Indoor Bike?

Working out on an indoor exercise bike with a spinning wheel has become the benchmark for a complete cardio workout for all the right reasons. You can burn fat and calories, while also firming and building lower body muscles. If you want to get these benefits and more, using the best spin bike is a must. Not all spinning bikes are the same, but don’t worry we’ll help you make the best choice so you can meet your fitness goals.

What to Look for in a Spin Bike

Spinning bikes can come with a wide array of features. Some are important and others are nice extras to have. Your overall fitness goals and budget will help you decide what attributes the bike must have.

Frame

The spin bike should be sturdy and well-constructed. If the stationary bike wobbles or shakes, it is a good indication that it is not well-made. Not only will this be a waste of your money, but it could be dangerous to ride. Look for a model with a solid frame and legs to ensure stability no matter how fast you are pedaling.

Drive System

Indoor spin bikes often come with a belt or chain drive system. Models that use a belt are typically quieter, easier to adjust and usually need less maintenance. The tradeoff is often the price, since chain driven models are generally less expensive.

Flywheel

You’ll find the flywheel at the front of the exercise bike, and you want to pay attention to its weight. The heavier a flywheel is the harder it will be for you to push the pedals. It will also keep the pedals spinning longer after you have stopped.

Flywheels weighing 39 pounds are usually found on spinning bikes for home use, while commercial models typically have one that weighs 44 to 48 pounds. You can find some indoor bikes with a 35 pound flywheel, but you really don’t want one any lighter. If the pedals are too easy to push, you’ll miss out on the benefits you can get from spinning.

Braking System

There are three types of braking systems and each has its own advantages.

• Fabric pads are inexpensive, but can quickly wear out if it is used daily.
• Leather pads will last longer, even if the bike is used every day, but this type of braking system is often found on higher end models.
• Magnetic braking systems are becoming more common on spin bikes for home use. It is almost maintenance free and quieter than the other types. You’ll also have a greater range of resistance with magnetic brakes.

Resistance

If you want to get the most out of a spinning workout, you need to pay attention to the type of resistance. Some indoor bicycles come with a cable system, but it can slip making it potentially unsafe. A manual screw is reliable, but it is difficult to know how much resistance is being applied. This can make it harder for you to accurately track your progress.

The best indoor bicycles come with electronic magnetic resistance. The combination of the magnet and small motor ensures reliability, while also allowing you to monitor resistance levels. There are a few models that use electromagnetic resistance, but these models are often pricey and difficult to find.

Height

This is something that people don’t think about, until they get the spin bike home and realize that it is too short or tall. The height of the exercise bike should be comparable to your stature to provide optimum comfort.

All these components are important to consider when you are looking for a spinning bike. Not only will it determine how effective your workout is, but it can also affect your safety.

Spin Bike Features

The best indoor bike will not only be sturdy, it will also come with the features you need to achieve your fitness goals. Some make it easier to track your progress, while others ensure you are comfortable during the ride. Your budget will also play a role in deciding what features your chosen model should have.

Seat and Handlebar Adjustment

Being able to adjust the handlebars and seat helps to ensure your comfort during your workout. It can also affect the height of the bike. Look for models that not only allow you to move the handlebars up and down, but forward and backwards as well. You’ll appreciate this feature when you are “climbing a steep hill”.

Digital Display

This is a great feature to have, and most top-rated spin bikes come with a digital display. Almost all will track mileage, time and calories burned, but some come with a few extra functions.

• Pre-programmed workouts are an excellent way to keep pushing yourself. Some models will even link you with live instructors. This can make spinning fun, and keep you from losing interest.
• Being able to monitor your pulse is always an advantage. It can help you determine how effective the workout is, and show you when you start to lose intensity. The small sensors are often located in the handlebars, which means you must grip them continuously if you want an accurate reading.

Transportation Wheels

Spin bikes are awkward to move, regardless of the construction. Therefore, we recommend that you look for models that come with small rollers so you can easily push it wherever it needs to go. Your back will thank you, and you don’t have to worry about scuffing the floor.

Bottle Holder

You are going to work up a sweat, whether you have joined a live spinning class or are cycling by yourself. While you can have a bottle of water sitting nearby on the counter or the floor, a designated holder on the bike is certainly more convenient. Staying hydrated throughout the spinning workout is crucial for your health and safety.

Design

For some, the design or appearance of the spin bike is important. Along with varying colors, the overall style can differ as well. Some are sporty, while others have a classic look. If you like something a little edgier, there is an indoor exercise bike designed just for you. It should be noted that the design will affect the price. Don’t worry, you can find models with a simpler style that are affordable and you’ll still be proud to have in your home.  

Now that you know what to look for in the best spinning bike, you’re ready for your first indoor ride.

8 Things to Remember Before Your Spin Session

It’s tempting to jump on your new indoor exercise bike as soon as it is set up, but there are a few things you should remember before your first spinning session. The first being to read the instruction manual. If you don’t know how to properly use the exercise bike, you’re increasing your risk for injuries. It also makes it almost impossible for you to get an effective workout.

1. Dress appropriately

You will want to wear clothing that is lightweight, breathable and comfortable to move in. What you don’t want are clothes that are too loose or tight. Baggy shirts can get in the way, and tight fitting tops and bottoms can restrict circulation.

2. Adjust the seat, handlebars and pedal straps

These adjustments should be made before you start your workout. This way you can safely keep the momentum going throughout the session. Sit on the bike and see what changes need to be made, then start pedaling your way toward improved health.

3. Hydration is key

Staying hydrated from start to finish is crucial. Failing to do so will put your health at risk. Keep a full water bottle close at hand, and take frequent drinks. Some of the best spinning bikes come with convenient bottle holders so there is no excuse for you to become dehydrated.

4. Take a short break if needed

Listen to your body, this is especially important during your first few spinning sessions. Overdoing it on a spin bike can result in more health problems than simple exhaustion. Taking short breaks during a 45 minute class won’t noticeably minimize the benefits, and it can even help you stay on track to reach your fitness goals.

5. Have a towel nearby

Expect to sweat. If you’re not then you’re not giving it your all. If you want to burn calories and improve your cardio health you must push yourself, and this means you will sweat. Having a towel within easy reach will keep the sweat from interfering with your workout.

6. Remember to breathe

This might sound silly, but it’s not uncommon for first time spinners to forget to breathe. Whether it is the excitement of using a new exercise machine or just trying to keep up with the fast paced workout, they often forget to take deep, regular breaths. Passing out from lack of oxygen on a spin bike is not only embarrassing, it is dangerous.

7. Keep a firm, but loose grip

Even if the pulse sensor is in the handlebars, you still don’t want to grip too tightly. This applies pressure to your wrists and hands, instead of your core. You want your core muscles to keep you upright to prevent injuries and ensure that you are getting the most out of your workout.

8. Pedal in a full circle

If the pedals are getting away from you during the rotation, you need to adjust the resistance. You also want to check your foot placement. Your feet should stay firmly placed on the pedals to ensure that you are toning and strengthening lower leg muscles.

Applying these simple tips will help you stay safe and get maximum results from regular spinning workouts.

Dangers of Spinning

Overdoing any type of exercise can be dangerous, and this also applies to spinning. Listening to your body and staying hydrated can help prevent exhaustion and dehydration, but these are not the only health risks associated with this indoor sport.

A medical condition known as rhabdomyolysis can occur, and it is potentially life-threatening.

While spinning is an effective form of cardiovascular exercise, it is working some of the largest muscles groups in the body (quads and gluteus maximus). Intense exercise for prolonged periods of time can cause these muscles to start breaking down due to lack of oxygen. When this happens, proteins are released that can be harmful to the kidneys. If left untreated kidney failure can occur, leading to dialysis or even death.

If your legs become painfully swollen 24 hours after your spinning session or walking is almost impossible, visit a licensed physician immediately. Some of the other signs that could signal a serious medical problem include,

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Intense abdominal pain
• Fever
• Rapid heart rate
• Loss of consciousness

It should be mentioned that this condition is rare, and shouldn’t be a problem if you pay attention to how your body feels during the spinning session.

Improve your Health with a Spin Bike

Spinning is a great way to boost cardio health, lose weight and tone muscles in your lower legs and core. It is a low-impact form of exercise that is safe for almost everyone, even if you are dealing with the pain of arthritis.

Now that you know everything there is to learn about spinning bikes, you are ready to go out and buy your own.