Top 8 Best Exercise Bikes Under $500 – Read Before You Buy

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Exercise bikes are one of the most recommended exercise equipment both in a home gym and commercial gym. These compact, convenient exercise machines are also of utmost importance for conditioning and warming yourself before a workout.

But if you want to enjoy the benefits that an exercise bike provides but have a limited budget, well, we are here and are going to highlight 8 best budget exercise bikes that don’t cost more than $500.

Five hundred bucks are quite a significant amount of money but with this price range, you can choose one feature-loaded exercise bike.

We listed our top 8 picks and offer a buyers’ guide below.

In a hurry? Here are our top 8 best exercise bike under $500:

See the overview, pros & cons below.

Benefits of Using Exercise Bikes for Exercising in Gym

Stationary exercise bikes are one of the significant pieces of equipment in the fitness world. To know its full potential, you must know the benefits it offers. Stationary exercise bikes offer hundreds of benefits that you can’t reject.

1. Reduces Weight

The most probable reason to use an exercise bike is to lose weight. Unlike other cardio equipment, stationary exercise bikes are more targeted. It is also dynamic that makes you burn calories fast.

This is the reason behind the excessive sweating after minutes of its use. However, calculating the calories burnt is somewhat easy with exercise bikes. All you have to do is multiply your time (in minutes) by 10.

For instance, if you work for twenty minutes, calories burnt will be 200(approx.) This rate is quite high in contrast with other manual equipment.

2. Strengthens Muscles

As stated above, exercise bikes facilitate a more dynamic movement.  This allows your muscles to work with the flow. Work out on an exercise bike is more continuous and organized.

This is the main reason why it is recommended by many experienced trainers. The continuity allows you to work for an extended period.

In this way, the HGH gets stimulated and increases the volume of your muscle fibers.

With the option of variable resistance, you can easily select the movement of the workout.

3.  Increases Metabolism

Wherever there will be a targeted workout, metabolism will surely find expression. Being actively indulged in intense paddling will improve blood circulation.

This circulation will transport the inhaled oxygen through the blood. Then, the chemistry within you will be more concentrated than before.

In this way, you’ll be benefited from an active metabolism. There are many shreds of evidence to convince you that exercise bikes improve digestion.

All you have to do is set yourself in the proper inclination, as directed by your trainer.

4. Effective Cardio Equipment

Exercise bikes are effective cardio equipment. Cardio exercises solve some of the most chronic disorders like hypertension and insomnia.

As many exercise bikes come with pulse sensors, you can easily spot the rise of your pulse as you work.

This will increase the heart’s efficiency in blood circulation. We recommend you to work on an exercise bike for at least 45 minutes daily.

If you possess irregular heartbeats, you can easily notice uniformity within a week. So, you can estimate how effective is an exercise bike.

5. Extends Lung Capacity

Breathing is probably the most important factor during an exercise. When it comes to working on an exercise bike, your trainer will surely insist on breathing periodically.

This makes you more conscious about your successive inhalations and exhalations.

The alveoli or the air sacs become more elastic with increased air retention. In turn, it enhances your stamina and endurance.

We recommend you exhale through your mouth, as this will act as a periodic rhythm.

6. Boosts Energy Levels

Our source of all energy is the food we take. After ingestion, the complex food materials get fragmented into simpler domains.

As stated above, working on an exercise bike enhances digestion and metabolism.

So, it is obvious that your energy levels will rise gradually. You might have witnessed the endurance and energy of cyclists.

They ride through many uneven and sloppy terrains with ease. With a variable resistance, you’ll get the same experience of riding your stationary bike.

However, we recommend you practice it under a trainer’s supervision. In contrast to your age, the time taken to acquire a boosted energy level might vary.

Do Exercise Bikes Cause Knee Injury?

The recumbent stationary bike is one of the best exercise bikes for bad knees. With a recumbent bike, you can strengthen your lower body muscle and ease the joint pain, if you maintain the right workout posture. But it is still recommended that you proceed under your trainer’s supervision. Most trainers recommend stationary bikes for warming up.

How to Choose The Best Exercise Bikes for Under $500?

$500 is quite a significant amount of money to purchase an exercise bike. However, not all of them might be the way to want. There are certain aspects you must consider choosing exercise bikes under this range.

To be more specific, we mentioned some metrics worth considering on purchasing a $500 exercise bike.

1. Weight Capacity

If you have a budget of $500, you must consider an exercise bike with high weight retention.

Many exercise bikes in this range can accommodate a minimum weight of 300 pounds. If you select one for your gym, go for the most retentive in the segment.

There might be clients who are overweight. So, we don’t recommend you to select bikes having weight retention below that figure.

Don’t compromise this factor with price. Heavy-duty exercise bikes in this range might cost more, but it’s worthy to select.

2. Offered Resistance Levels

There would be no point in exercising without proper resistance. In the absence of variable resistance, you are miles away from achieving your fitness goals.

Moreover, your trainer won’t suggest you exercise bikes with obsolete resistance.

Many exercise bikes within this price range come with selective resistance technology.

Check the resistance offered by the stationary bike before purchasing it.

The more resistance levels it offers, the more fitness goal you’ll have.

3. Comfortability

You might be a professional athlete but can’t compromise comfort with the price. Comfort is something that all users look for.

Especially when are going to spend $500 on an exercise bike, select the most comfortable one. We recommend you inspect each possible ingredient for comfort.

Check the deck whether it is comfortable or not. Furthermore, don’t forget the grab bars. We insist you purchase exercise bikes with foam grips on the handlebars.

4. Extra Features

A $500 exercise bike is feature-loaded. But, if you skip the features, your investments won’t be fruitful. We recommend you start with the information cluster.

An exercise bike within this budget is more likely to have a digital console, pulse sensors, and water bottle holders. Always prioritize the most informative digital console.

It must reveal basic information like time, speed, distance, calories burnt, and pulse.

You might not be aware, but the safety factor comes under features too.

We insist you select an exercise bike with a red kill switch embedded on the mid console.

Top 8 Best Exercise Bikes Under $500

Statements become more clear with relevant examples. However, selecting among the vast options isn’t a child’s play. With more products, comes more confusion.

Given below are the eight best exercise bikes under $500.

#1. Schwinn 170 Upright Bike

Schwinn Fitness 170 Upright Bike

Standing on top of the best upright bike under $500 is Schwinn 170 Upright Bike. The dimensions and weight to be 41.3”×21.4”×55.6” and 58lbs, respectively.

You will find this upright bike is quite easy to assemble, and it can accommodate up to 300lbs.

Built material is high-quality melamine and steel that supports such a weight range. However, the fit and finish weren’t up to the mark, as I expected more from this Schwinn product.

Schwinn 170 is a feature-loaded exercise bike. Its Dual Track LCD screen allows you to monitor time, distance, calorie goals, and pulse readings.

The handlebars come with heart rate sensors with precise calculations. The seat is quite contoured and comfortable that can be adjusted at varying heights.

Moreover, the pedals are oversized and can fit any foot. This compels me to provide a full-star rating for ergonomics. The machine draws its power from a 110-120V AC source.

These power figures are capable of operating a 3-speed fan to keep the system cool. You can also connect your device to the bike via Bluetooth and listen to your favorite tracks.

Pros

  • Feature-loaded equipment
  • Relatively better ergonomics
  • Easy to assemble
  • Impressive packaging

Cons

  • Low fit and finish quality
  • Relatively low durability
  • Unstable at higher altitudes

#2. Nautilus U616 Upright Bike

Nautilus U616 Upright Bike, Black

This Nautilus U616 is better known for its stability. On measuring the dimensions and weight, the dimensions are 12.3”×22.5”×41” and weigh about 76 pounds, respectively.

These numbers reveal the material to be less dense. But on the other hand, it is easy to move and can be stocked easily.

The frame is made up of durable steel, and the company provides a warranty for ten years. Fit and finish were neat, which depicts its extended durability.

Coming to the seat, the Nautilus U616 has an inclined seating position that makes it more stable. Although the seat is soft, it might rattle at high speeds.

Users up to 300lbs can easily work on this exercise bike. However, the pedal movements would be stiff for 200+ pound users. But for users below 200lbs, everything operates like butter.

Nautilus U616 is enhanced with a Bluetooth connectivity feature. This allows the users to track records of their previous workouts. You can have a precise estimation of your progressive performance.

The most fantastic feature that amazed me is the app-based tracking tools. I could walk virtually in exotic locations around the globe.

It helped users to get more engaged, and you could add extra miles to your record. To make your workouts organized, the equipment comes with 29 unique training programs.

Additionally, there are three free World App courses. These include pre-set programs like interval training, weight loss, and cardio training programs.

Pros

  • Innovative technology
  • Easy to assemble
  • Neat fit and finish
  • Durable material

Cons

  • Seat rattles for heavy users
  • Consumes more power

#3. Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Exercise Bike

Exerpeutic Folding Exercise Bike, 8 Levels of Resistance Stationary Bike,

Exerpeutic Magnetic Upright Bike is hailing from the US, and it has an appreciable reputation in the market that gives the product a lot of attention.

Like every other of its products, this exercise bike is a value-for-money item. Due to its smaller size, the packaging was simple yet neat.

Assembled dimensions for this product are 31”×19”×46”, and it weighs a mere 39lbs.

As the name says, it can be easily folded and stored in narrow spaces. Moreover, transportation wheels make it even easier to relocate and assemble.

So, for elderly people, assembling and storing it won’t be an issue.

This folding upright exercise bike is embedded with a 3.3”×1.5” LCD screen. It helps you to monitor various numbers like distance covered, time, speed, calories burnt, pulse, and scan.

Just like other exercise bikes, the hand pulse sensors are installed on the handlebars. All you have to do is grip the handlebar to monitor your pulse.

However, there isn’t an option for Bluetooth connectivity or a USB port. This might sound like a limitation to all techie users. But, considering the price range, this is all that you get.

With eight levels of magnetic resistance, users can easily regulate their workout intensity. However, there are no stability issues due to the leg stabilizers.

The frame can accommodate up to 300lbs, which is a large number according to its size. People of heights from 5’3” to 6’1” can easily operate this bike.

But, if you don’t fall in this range, there might be discomfort issues. Fit and finish were poor, which is an indicator of low durability. Besides, there are several negative reviews about the durability of its customers.

Pros

  • Easy to assemble
  • Space-saving design
  • Relatively more stable
  • Consumes less power

Cons

  • Lacks innovative features
  • Discomfort issues
  • Low fit and finish
  • Relatively low durability

#4. Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B1002 Spin Bike

Sunny Health & Fitness Indoor Cycling Exercise Bike with Heavy-Duty

One of the leading products in this segment is the Sunny Health & Fitness spin bike. For a long time, Sunny Health and Fitness served the fitness industry faithfully.

The sturdy steel frame added some extra pounds. On measuring the weight, I found it to be 114 pounds.

However, the dimensions aren’t oversized, as they measured 44”×20”×44”. So, one the conclude the texture to be dense and rock-solid.

The company claims the weight-bearing capacity to be 275lbs, but in fact, it can accommodate up to 300lbs.

The SF-B1002 lacks electrical features and is completely old-school, but this does not prevent it from becoming one of the best spin bikes under $500.

There is no question about power consumption and its resistance gives you a real road-type feeling.

The most distinctive feature of this stationary bike is its position adjustments. The 4-way adjustable seat can be mounted at varying altitudes ranging from 18” to 23”.

This allows users of all respective heights to operate the equipment with ease. Moreover, the 2-way adjustable handlebars incline the user’s back and prevents strain.

Performance is smooth and flawless due to the maintenance-free belt-drive system.

Many athletes and even common people possess the habit of drinking water during the workout. The SF-B1002 fulfills this requirement with a bottle holder.

Mount your bottle on the equipment and keep yourself hydrated during the workout.

Pros

  • Relatively more durable
  • More position variations
  • Impressive fit and finish
  • Doesn’t consume electrical power

Cons

  • Dated design
  • Lacks electrical features
  • Emits noise on cycling

#5. JOROTO Indoor Spin Cycling Bike

JOROTO Indoor Cycling Bike Exercise Bike with 35 pounds Flywheel

The JOROTO Indoor Spin cycling bike was one of the best spin bikes under $500 when you search on the market.

I felt as if JOROTO treated packaging as a mere formality. However, you cannot complain about the product or its sturdiness.

The A/V type frame was strongly set with the 50mm thickened tube. Weight retention can be expected to be 280lbs from a 35lbs flywheel.

This JOROTO product conquers the fitness market in terms of ergonomics. So, a beginner who is struggling to reduce some weight, this product will serve him best.

The 4-way seats are fully adjustable along with the 2-way handlebars. This allows inclination for the short-statured to operate the equipment comfortably. So, you can select your inseam height ranging from 25.6” to 35.4”.

With the convenient resistance adjustable knob, you can select your preferred workout intensity.

However, the machine might produce noise at higher resistance levels. But, it’s acceptable for keeping other features into account.

The digital monitor is easy to read, even with a mere glance. It reveals valuable information like time, speed, RPM, distance, and calories burnt.

So, unlike its other rivals, the display console is more informative. Dual transportation wheels make it easy to relocate and assemble.

Now, you don’t have a waste of effort in assembling your workout. Moreover, the pedal crank is 9/16”, which is compatible with most feet.

Pros

  • Variable movements
  • Informative display panel
  • Easy to assemble
  • Easy to relocate

Cons

  • Noise at higher resistance
  • Poor fit and finish
  • Low durability issues
  • Low packaging quality

#6. Schwinn IC2 Indoor Spin Cycling Bike

Schwinn Fitness IC2 Indoor Cycling Bike

The Schwinn IC2 Indoor spin cycle is one of the best equipment in this segment. The packaging was impressive without any disproportionate tying.

The item dimension is 45″×23”×49”, and it weighs around 93.5 pounds. Fit and finish are impressive, which indicates long durability.

However, users might find it difficult to relocate due to its weight and lack of transportation wheels. This makes it ideal for gyms, but impractical for home workouts.

Handlebars are quite comfortable and multi-positioning but lack pulse sensors. So, the LCD console can only display speed, RPM, distance, time, and calories burnt.

The resistance levels are infinite, with a 31lbs effective flywheel that drives high inertia. Thus, there are no limitations on the intensity of workouts.

Moreover, the sturdy and corrosion-resistant steel tubing accommodates up to 300lbs. The pedals are oversized and are compatible with any foot size.

Besides, the durable woolen felt pad provides smoothness and even resistance.

Pros

  • Relatively more durable
  • Infinite workout intensities
  • Impressive fit and finish
  • Comfortable to ride

Cons

  • Difficult to relocate
  • Emits noise on high revving
  • Lacks features
  • Less informative monitor

#7. Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike

Schwinn Fitness 230 Recumbent Bike (Discontinued)

Another Schwinn product, the 230 Recumbent Bike, is differing a lot from its predecessor. It is way more futuristic and feature-loaded.

Nevertheless, the item looks bulky on unboxing that can accommodate up to 300 lbs. However, there weren’t any noise issues, and the equipment was quite stable even for heavy users.

The seating position is quite upright, devoid of any discomfort. When using this bike, you have to stretch your legs out to reach the pedals, which making it a recumbent bike suitable for tall guys.

Unlike other machines, the pedals aren’t oversized and might be clumsy for wider feet.

The bottle holding system is unique that allows double-sided mounting. Which means you can have two large bottles to keep yourself hydrated.

If you feel bored, you can connect your device to your equipment, and the MP3 listens to your favorite tracks. The MP3 player comes with a small 3-speed fan to keep your device cool.

So, you can perform all those 22 preset exercise programs comfortably.

Pros

  • Feature loaded
  • Innovative design
  • No noise issues
  • Heavyweight retention

Cons

  • Hard to assemble
  • Improper fit and finish
  • Extremely hard to relocate

#8. Exerpeutic 4000 Magnetic Recumbent Bike

Exerpeutic 4000 Magnetic Recumbent Bike with 12 Workout Programs

The Exerpeutic owned enormous name and fame in the fitness world. And Exerpeutic products never fail to lay an astonishing first impression.

Exerpeutic 4000 is another great recumbent bike for under $500. The dimensions and weight are 58”×30”×41” and 71lbs, respectively.

This recumbent bike can accommodate up to 325lbs, which makes it more appealing to users. The seat is oversized and airsoft that allows you to work out for a prolonged period.

Because of the aerodynamic, the airflow allows for a flawless workout. Fit and finish are impressive too, where it indicates the item to be more durable.

With the tablet and phone holder, you can watch your favorite movies or motivational videos. It might be hard to relocate due to the absence of transportation wheels.

But it can be ideal for your home gym. The resistance offered is magnetic that can be controlled via the console panel. Moreover, the handlebars are embedded with pulse rate sensors.

All these features make the Exerpeutic 4000 to be a value-for-money product.

Pros

  • Feature-loaded
  • Impressive packaging quality
  • Neat fit and finish
  • Extended weight retention

Cons

  • Consumes more power
  • Hard to assemble
  • Hard to relocate

Final Thoughts

Besides features and comfort, I believe in reliability. Unreliable equipment will be no good in maintaining your fitness.

As a customer, it’s your sole right to know the truth. However, there are tons of equipment online that claim to be the best.

The element of truth in their statements can only be tested on using the products. Taking all effort myself, I presented you with the best exercise bikes on the market.

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