Top 10 Best Exercise Bikes for Short Persons [Recumbent, Spin, Upright, & Stationary Bike]

If you’re short, you’ll face a slew of challenges that tall individuals don’t have to deal with. Finding a comfy exercise bike for a short person is part of this. When you decide to buy an exercise bike, you might find that most exercise bikes are designed for tall people.

That’s why choosing the best exercise bike for short-leg people is challenging; it can be downright humiliating.

So many people of short stature avoid attending the gym completely because of a humiliating incident in the past? Working out on a bike might be the last thing on your mind when your arms and legs aren’t long enough to reach the handlebars and pedals.

If you’re buying an exercise bike for short people, it’s necessary to get one that’s small or has an adjustable height setting. Many exercise bikes come with adjustable seats that may be raised or lowered. Many modern exercise bikes come with adjustable arm exercisers designed to engage both the upper and lower body.

In this article, we will discuss the best adjustable height exercise bike for short people. If you think you fall into the category of apparently short-height people, then this article is for you. And we will also provide you with a guide on choosing a small stationary bike for short people based on features, pros, and cons.

In a hurry? Here are our top picks of the best adjustable height bikes for short legs/persons:

• Schwinn Recumbent Bike Series—Best Overall for Short Legs
• Schwinn 130 Upright Exercise Bike for Short Persons
• Concept2 BikeErg Stationary Bike
• Echelon EX3 Spin Bike
• EXERPEUTIC 900XL Recumbent Exercise Bike
• Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike—Best Affordable Recumbent Bike for Short People
• Exerpeutic 2500 Recumbent Exercise Bike— Best Quiet Choice
• Nautilus Recumbent Bike Series
• NordicTrack Commercial VR21 Recumbent Bike
• LifeSpan R5i Recumbent Bike—Best Heavy-duty for Heavy Guys

See the overview, pros & cons below.

How to Choose the Best Adjustable Height Exercise Bike for Short Persons?

There are a variety of exercise bikes available in the market. It is necessary to choose the perfect one for you. Here are some of the essential factors you have to focus on getting a quality exercise bike.

Resistance

Resistance is the first factor that affects exercise bike quality. If you want to get a worth buying exercise bike, go for an adjustable resistance bike that is easy to control. You have to manage the opposition to decrease or increase the difficulty level as per your requirement.

Seat, Backrest, and Pedals

Choose an exercise bike that has a more comprehensive and padded seat to get enough space to sit comfortably. Likewise, the backrest is for back support so focus on getting a bike with enough support for your back and lower back.

A broad and smoother pedal helps in comfortable pedaling. If the pedal and brakes are hard, you may feel tired doing a little workout. Soft pedals and adjustable foot straps are suitable for long-time exercise.

TIPS: If you are short, make sure to measure the distance between the seat and the pedals. Though many bikes come with adjustable seats, the range of adjustability makes some models better than the rest. Any bike you choose should help you pedal without straining your knees and toes.

An adjustable seat where you can accommodate various height positions is necessary to help you pedal properly. It is even better to make forward, and backward seat adjustments as this would help you access the handlebar quite easily.

Adjustable handlebars are necessary to maintain good body posture. If you are going for a spin and upright bikes, always choose a model that comes with adjustable handlebars.

Distance to Handlebars

Similar to how you look at the distance to the pedal, the distance to handlebars is also vital for better performance. The exercise bikes that allow for fore and aft options cost more but help you maintain desirable body positions and let you exercise at the best positions.

Otherwise, there are plenty of chances that you might lean forward, which could affect your posture. If you want to go for a recumbent bike, it is better to choose a model that allows for up and down seat adjustment and can move forward and backward.

Programming

The programming of any exercise equipment is another factor in choosing the best quality. A preset programming facility makes the exercise smoother and more comfortable.

When you can adjust the level of training, set your goals, customize your weight, age, and other necessary factors, your exercise output will be best.

Preset programming helps the person utilize the exercise bike as per their requirement. You can customize the program and use it very easily.

Safety

Always check whether the exercise bike has any harmful parts that can cause any injury. Safety is the primary concern as workouts are made to keep you fit. Never let the equipment hurt you anyway.

Display

Display of any exercise equipment is essential as it lets you know about the progress of your workout. Speed, time, distance, resistance level, heartbeat rate, or pulse should be displayed on the machine so that you can check the details whenever you want.

It’s always good to buy an exercise bike with an easy-to-use interface with an LCD digital widescreen.

Heartbeat Reading

When the exercise bike has the feature to read your heartbeat, it becomes easier to monitor your overall health. So always look for an exercise bike with a heartbeat reading feature with a pulse sensor.

Material and Price

Material and price are somehow connected in any purchase. A quality material exercise bike must fall under a comparatively high cost than a low-quality bike.

So, choose the material (plastic or steel) of the exercise bike wisely. And don’t forget to check if the price tag is suitable for the material or not. This will save you from buying a low-quality bike at a high price.

Warranty

An essential factor in buying any equipment is its warranty period. You should be well aware of the warranty period of parts and other things to utilize. A quality bike has an extended warranty period on its parts.

Extra Add-on Features

A quality bike has extra added features like a water bottle holder, MP3 port, USB charger port, in-console speakers, adjustable fans, and a folding system. Always cross-check if your bike has all these extra features or not.

Top 10 Best Recumbent, Spin, Stationary, and Upright Exercise Bikes for a Short Person

There are several exercise bikes available in the market for short people.

But considering the above factors, we have listed the best exercise bikes that are the best fit for you if you fall in the short people category.

Schwinn Recumbent Bike Series

Schwinn’s recumbent bike series is one of the best bikes for short people. The series has two different models called: Schwinn 270 recumbent bike and Schwinn 230 recumbent bike.

Schwinn 270 recumbent has 29 levels of magnetic resistance, whereas Schwinn 230 Recumbent has 20 levels of magnetic resistance.

Both have a high-speed, high inertia perimeter weighted flywheel drive system.

Below are some of the key features of both the Schwinn 270 recumbent and Schwinn 230 recumbent bikes.

Schwinn 270 recumbent bike

It has 29 workout programs (12 profiles, 9 heart rates, 1 quick start, 2 fitness tests, 1 recovery test, and 4 custom.

It has a grip/ telemetry enabled console heart rate monitor, and the display is Dualtrack 2 blue backlit LCD window system.

Its thick padded contoured seat bottom and large vented back give comfort to your body so that you can exercise smoothly.

Schwinn 230 recumbent bike

This model has 22 workout programs total (9 profiles, 8 heart rates, 1 quick start, 2 fitness tests, 2 custom). It has a grip contact heart rate monitor, and the display is a DualTrack 2 LCD window system.

Its vented contoured seat bottom with a large vented back supports you while doing exercise.

Both Schwinn 270 and 230 recumbent bikes have display readouts for time, RPM, distance, pulse, speed, calories, resistance level, course profile, heart rate zone indicator, complete percentage indicator, intensity meter, and goal achievement.

Schwinn recumbent bike series has a water bottle holder and a 3-speed fan along with a media shelf, sound system, and a built-in USB charging port.

You can switch from miles to Kilometers. This multi-colored easy to assemble bikes have Bluetooth connectivity.

The maximum user weight is 325 lbs. Warranty period: frame – 10 years, parts- 2 years, electronics- 1 year, and labor – 90 days.

Schwinn 130 Upright Exercise Bike

Schwinn 130 upright bike is my choice for short people. It comes with adjustable handlebars, and this allows you to adjust the handlebars to the desired angle for maximum versatility.

Also, for those who have started exercising with a set goal in mind, the Schwinn 130 model should be the apt choice as the bike comes with goal tracking abilities.

Set personalized goals and follow up on your progress using the two LCD screens that help you monitor speed, distance, time, calories, and more.

22 different preset programs could be operated from the console, and these also help you achieve your goals.

The bike also supports transferring all necessary data through a USB port, and there is even an MP3 input using which you can stay entertained listening to songs from the speaker.

The bike is an exceptional choice for short individuals as the seat adjustability options, and padding helps anyone from 4 feet in height to make use of the machine comfortably.

The handlebars are also adjustable and come with heart rate sensors that help you track heart rate details.

Concept2 BikeErg Stationary Air Bike

Concept2 is one of the most well-reputed fitness companies, and the BikeErg model from this company is all about sturdiness, simplicity, and finer details.

Concept2 BikeErg air bike comes with adjustable air resistance for exercising, conditioning, and strength training.

The flywheel is of exceptional quality and is based on air resistance technology, making it easy for individuals to experience various resistance levels.

There are more than ten levels, and reaching higher ranges is difficult and excruciating, helping you reap greater exercising benefits. The seat and handlebars are ergonomically designed with adjustable settings to provide a customized fit.

You can make adjustments using a simple lever without the pain of turning a knob or pulling pins.

The PM5 performance monitor is sleek and elegant, helping you monitor various metrics details.

BikeErg makes use of self-tensioning poly groove belts that help in the noiseless operation of the bike without much maintenance.

Though lightweight, the bike is stable and could be maneuvered around the house.

Echelon EX3 Spin Bike

The EX3 model comes with a solid steel frame and occupies less space, making it ideal for home gym use. The adjustable features let you adapt the EX-3 to your body, while technology and its strong frame offer the workouts and durability necessary to pedal hard toward your goals.

The spin bike is attractive with appealing red color and powder coating, but besides looks, the bike also promises a noiseless operation using its 13kg flywheel.

This model as it comes with versatile adjustability options and fully adjustable toe cages on the pedals for a secure fit, making it a good choice for short individuals.

You can feel free to move the seat forward, backward, up, or down, and with ample padding, the seats are most comfortable for your exercise sessions.

You can use any kind of shoes to pedal using the sturdy pedals and perform any intense workouts.

There are no preset workout programs available, and you don’t get a console to follow up on your metric details.

EXERPEUTIC 900XL Recumbent Exercise Bike

The Exerpeutic 900XL recumbent exercise bike is one of the cheapest recumbent bikes for low-impact lower-body workouts.

It has 8 levels of magnetic resistance, and it has a weight capacity of up to 300 pounds. Easy to get on and off the facility makes it one of the best recumbent bikes in the middle-level range.

The bike has a precision balanced flywheel and V belt that gives a smooth operation while working out.

It also has Bluetooth connectivity to play your favorite music or media from your gadgets.

A fully cushioned seat and backrest of the bike give comfort and a relaxed exercise experience.

The bike has a feature of monitoring heart rate, and you can check every progress related to your exercise on its large 3.5’’ LCD window screen.

You can check the covered distance, calories burned, time, speed, pulse, and scan on the screen.

Leg stabilizer holds the feet to avoid any kind of accident during exercising. Via the My Cloud Fitness app on your iOS or Android phone, you can monitor your goals set for workouts.

It has a limited warranty period of 3 years on frame and 90 days on labor and parts. The frame is made up of steel, and other components are made up of plastic.

So you have to be careful while using it as you may damage the plastic parts.

The bike is not foldable, so it takes up a lot of space, but it is valuable for money. You may not find other recumbent bikes for short people in the price range.

Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike

Marcy recumbent exercise bikes are easy to assemble bikes in quality under budget. The bike comes in three different colors: black, gray, and copper.

Its comfortable padded seat is furnished with comfortable high-density foam. It has foam-covered handles for extra support to the back and arms while working out.

This compact recumbent bike has 8 magnetic resistance mechanisms with a tension knob to control the difficulty and make your exercise smooth. You can customize your workout as per your fitness level.

The step-through design comprises heavy-duty material 14 gauge steel tubing with a powder-coated finish that allows maximum flexibility during a workout.

There is an LCD that shows speed covered, time, distance, and calories burned.

The pedals completely fit your feet, and adjustable foot straps give you comfort while exercising.

The bike can bear a user weight of up to 300 lbs. Whether you want to improve your cardiovascular endurance or lose some weight, the Marcy recumbent exercise bike is perfect gym equipment. Moreover, this high-weight capacity bike has two years of manufacturer warranty.

Exerpeutic 2500 Recumbent Exercise Bike

Work out with the Exerpeutic 2500 recumbent exercise bike and stay fit and healthy.

Exerpeutic 2500 recumbent bike comes with 14 levels of smooth magnetic resistance, and StepThru design allows you to easily on and off the bike.

The large LCD shows time, speed, distance covered, calories burned, odometer, and scan. The weight capacity of the bike is 250 lbs.

It has an extra thick air soft foam cushioned seat that gives you extra comfort while exercising for a long time. The bike’s three angles adjustable backrest provides additional support for your back.

Soft grip handlebars are for pushing yourself to work out more smoothly.

Exerpeutic 2500 recumbent exercise bike is made up of steel material, and Bluetooth enabled. You can download the free My Cloud Fitness app on iOS and Android devices to track your exercise results.

You can set 3 workout goals – distance, time, and calories burned.

The bike’s unique feature is a flexible desktop that can be adjusted from 7 different angles like side, back, up, down, forward, and 0 to 30 degrees.

It has eight height adjustments from 36.5’’ to 41’’. It also has an armrest, computer holder.

Nautilus Recumbent Bike Series

Nautilus recumbent bike series is another best bike series for short people. It has two models: Nautilus U618 upright bike and Nautilus U616 upright bike.

These bike ranges have almost similar features.

It has 25 levels of magnetic resistance with a high speed, high inertia drive system, with a perimeter weighted flywheel for easy start-up and smooth, consistent workout purpose.

The bike has 29 workout programs total (12 profiles, 9 heart rates, 1 quick start, 2 fitness tests, 1 recovery test, 4 custom).

You can monitor your heart rate with a contact & telemetry-enabled chest strap.

2 blue backlit LCDs show your exercise progress, and you can create up to 4 user profiles.

This Bluetooth-enabled bike can sync with free health apps.

With a sliding seat and reliable locking, you can sit comfortably on the bike to work out for a long time.

The bike has a weight limit of 325 lbs(U618 model) and 300 lbs(U616 model).

Large contoured seat / Fore & aft adjustments make the exercise experience smooth and easy.

The bike has a water bottle handler, media shelf, three-speed fan, USB charging port, and MP3 input sound speaker to play media files via Bluetooth connectivity.

Model U618 bikes have a warranty period of 15 years on frame, whereas model U616 bikes have ten years on frame. Both have 3 years warranty on parts & electronics and 1 year on labor.

NordicTrack Commercial VR21 Recumbent Bike

Sit and stay fit with the NordicTrack Commercial VR21 recumbent bike. It is the lowest-priced model among all the NordicTrack series.

If you are looking to have low or moderate-level exercise, this bike is a perfect fit.

It has 25 digital resistance levels to increase or decrease training intensity as per your requirement.

Heart rate can be monitored via a wireless chest strap. It has 32 built-in workouts that professionals design. The bike is iFit Coach enabled.

5’’ backlit iFit display is added to the bike so that you can check the live time, RPM, distance, time, BPM, speed, and calories burned.

NordicTrack Commercial VR21 recumbent bike has an easy StepThru design that makes mounting and demounting on the bike more comfortable.

Extra-wide pedals and mesh-ventilated seat with added lumbar back support is another pro point about the recumbent bike.

The bike can resist user weight up to 350 lbs and comes with a 30 day money-back guarantee.

Water bottle holder, front-mounted transport wheels, integrated tablet holder, two 2” digitally amplified speakers – these are some of the added features of NordicTrack Commercial VR21 recumbent bike.

The bike has a fantastic warranty option: frame- 10 years, parts- 2 years, labor- 1 year.

LifeSpan R5i Recumbent Bike

Ergonomically tuned for comfort – LifeSpan R5i recumbent bike is the best workout partner for short people. 16 levels of resistance enable users to work out at their required speed.

The R5i bike has an integrated self-generating power system that energizes the bike’s electronics. There is no need for batteries or cords replacement. So, you won’t find any USB charging port in it.

You can transfer workout results via Bluetooth to the LifeSpan Active Trac app. The app also supports Google fit and Apple health.

The bike is designed for a low-stress workout for those who are suffering from back or foot pain.

The multicolor LCD screen display shows the workout program name, work time, calories burned, heart rate, date and time, speed, RPM, distance, resistance level.

Adjustable seats let you sit comfortably on the bike during workout sessions.

The maximum weight capacity of the bike is 400 lbs, which makes it the most capable bike for heavyweight people.

The bike has 40 easy-to-navigate exercise programs you can use to stay healthy.

It has other added features like an MP3 player option, a cooling fan, and a water bottle holder.

LifeSpan R5i recumbent bike has a lifetime warranty on frame, 5 years on parts, and 2 years on labor.

FAQs

What Is a Recumbent Bike?

A recumbent bike is a stationary cycle used for cardio workouts and exercises. It has a backrest, seat, and pedal with your legs to the front instead of down.

The bike is very much back-friendly and helps you with smoother exercise. You can work for your thighs, calves, and glutes while pedaling faster or slower.

Recumbent bikes are for indoor exercise to sit down and back to take the weight off your upper back. This helps you work out in your legs in a comfortable way. If you have any upper or lower back problems, then recumbent bikes are best for you.

Read Also:

• Stationary Bike Benefits for Legs: 7 Reasons Cycling Is Good for You
• Top 6 Best Upright Bikes Under $500
• Top 14 Best Air Resistance Bikes for Home Gym Reviewed