Best Recumbent Exercise Bike

There is a world of difference between the best recumbent exercise bike brands and the knock-off (often unpronounceable) names that dominate *cough* certain retail listings these days.

The difference is stark.

At one end you have a recumbent indoor bike which will last you for years, still challenging you as your fitness level improves. At the bottom end, you get machines which are little better than rattly toys. No wonder those brands with impeccable 5-star early feedback suddenly disappear when the truth comes out (only to be replaced with another unpronounceable perfect-5 model).

This page covers popular brands with real support, history, and genuine warranties only.

The best recumbent exercise bikes cover a wide range of budget levels. They come from big names like NordicTrack, Sole Fitness, ProForm, JLL and Exerpeutic.

What they have in common is that you’ll burn calories in comfort – while maintaining that all-important cardio health.

• This page was created by the Fitness Review team in line with our extensive Editorial Guidelines covering fair reviews, customer protection and our reputable brands-only selection criteria. Feedback is welcomed, and contact information can be found on this ‘Meet the Team’ page.

Table: Best Recumbent Exercise Bike 2024

This table has a snippet on why I picked each recumbent cycle as best in a specific category, along with a link to my detailed review page. After that you’ll find longer mini-reviews, a feature-by-feature guide, recumbent exercise bike FAQ – and how to understand exactly what you get for each price level.

	Best Overall: The Stunning R35 Recumbent from NordicTrack Quality, style and tech! This beautifully designed recumbent has a 14" HD screen with live training through iFit. A stunning machine which is built to last.	Check Price!Detailed Review!
	Great Tech for the Price Point - ProForm C10R Recumbent This smart recumbent has everything that the higher priced units offer, at a great price point. This includes a 10" HD console unit.	Check Price!Detailed Review!
	Best for Commercial Gym Style - The LCR from Sole This home recumbent looks like the type you'd find in your local gym. The technology won't let you down while you work out.	Check Price!Detailed Review!
	Best British Brand: The Bargain JLL RE600 Pro Birmingham based JLL created a big recumbent with app-compatibility at a fraction of the cost of the major industry names...	Check Price!Detailed Review!
	Best for Heavier People: The XL900 from Exerpeutic Built for heavier people, this recumbent will let you burn those all-important calories with a sturdy, comfy seat and smooth action.	Check Price!Detailed Review!
	Best for Smaller Budgets: The Excellent RE100 from JLL Smaller than the RE600 above, the RE100 has JLL quality, and at the price point makes for a great way to get fit on a budget.	Check Price!Detailed Review

Reviews of the Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes

Below are highlights of my top six best recumbent exercise bikes. This list was curated from more than 20 alternatives – and covers for all different budget levels. Note that every bike listed here has a warranty covering parts and labour for at least one year.

#1 – My Top Choice of Recumbent Exercise Bike: The Stunning R35 from NordicTrack

While style alone would never make me choose a recumbent, it is hard not to see the symmetry, curves and angles of the R35 from NordicTrack and not be impressed.

This is the latest in a long line of high-tech recumbent bikes from NordicTrack. There is a lot more to this exercise bike than meets the eye. Let’s start with the crisp 14” HD monitor. This works with iFit, for group trainer-led rides and a big library of training sessions. Your trainer will control the resistance, which comes through a 26-level SMR inertia-enhanced flywheel setup.

Add multiple small touches like a fan, Bluetooth, arms with one-touch controls that mean you won’t need to reach up to the screen, and the clever adjustment mechanism of the ergonomic seat…

This recumbent bike is flexible, powerful and high-tech.

It is built to last you for years and comes with a free trial of iFit too.

Check out the full stunning picture gallery now – on this dedicated R35 bike page at NordicTrack’s UK site.

Alternatively, here is my detailed review of the R35 Recumbent Bike.

#2 – C10R Recumbent Exercise Bike from ProForm

When you find a C10R in the sales at ProForm – grab one!

This excellent recumbent bike is worth every penny of the full price tag. It has a 10” HD monitor, which is iFit compatible – along with the patented Silent Magnetic Resistance for a smooth, predictable ride.

What I liked about this recumbent is the adjustability. The big, airy seat setup lets you sit back comfortably. The whole unit slides forwards or back to accommodate riders of different sizes. In addition to the bars either side of the console area, there are handles level with the seat – hold on when you go for higher resistance sprints.

C10R recumbent bikes from ProForm are iFit compatible. Connect your bike to the Wi-Fi, and enjoy like training classes, a vast library, scenic rides, social elements, and advanced stats tracking. You get a 30-day free iFit trial with your purchase of this excellent recumbent bike. After that it is up to you whether to continue or use a different app instead.

For me, ProForm hit that sweet spot – offering great quality machines at a lower price point than many other leading brands.

Check the latest pricing (and full list of high-tech extras) for the C10R Indoor bike now – on this page at ProForm Fitness’ official UK site.

Alternatively, here is my detailed review of the C10R Recumbent from ProForm.

#3 – Sole Fitness LCR Recumbent Exercise Bike

This entry is for anyone that wants a recumbent exercise bike so good, that it would not be out of place in a commercial gym.

Sole Fitness supply commercial gyms worldwide. They produce big, durable, and stable recumbent exercise bikes which are versatile enough for everyone from beginners to the super-fit. I like the design which features a big colour display and handlebars next to the seat that jut upwards for easy heart-rate monitoring.

You get a tablet / phone holder with the Sole LCR recumbent bike. There are multiple small touches which highlight the quality. For example, the pedals slope ever-so-slightly inwards for a more comfortable riding position. There is even a USB charging point, plus Bluetooth compatibility for entertainment while you burn those calories.

When it comes to power, this is the best recumbent exercise bike of the bunch. You get a full 40 levels of resistance with this machine.

I’m a fan of Sole Fitness, who really are brining commercial fitness equipment into the home right now.

Check out the latest price and full spec of the Sole LCR Recumbent on this page at the top-rated BestGymEquipment.com!

Alternatively, here is my detailed review of the Sole Fitness LCR Recumbent Exercise Bike.

#4 – The JLL RE600 Recumbent Exercise Bike

The RE600 is the first of two fantastic recumbent exercise bikes from British brand JLL.

When you see the spec, I’m sure your first action will be to double-check the price. You get a big, sturdy home recumbent weighing a solid 49.5kg. You get app compatibility, and you get a unique design where the flywheel is housed above the pedals, rather than between them.

JLL are Birmingham based and have a reputation for looking after their customers. In addition to making some of the best recumbent exercise bikes around, they produce studio bikes. You can see all the current models on my page covering JLL Exercise Bikes in depth.

Back to the RE600 Recumbent. This bike has a basic console, 6kg flywheel and enough resistance for all but the fittest users. It has a lot of positive feedback at the JLL Amazon store – many comments specifically mention that the price point is a real bargain for this quality sit-back home exercise bike.

You get a big quiet bike, 12-month warranty and you get to support a real British brand.

Check the latest price and see the feedback from current users now – over on the dedicated RE600 Recumbent bike page at the JLL Amazon.co.uk store.

Alternatively, you can read my detailed thoughts on this JLL RE600 Recumbent Bike Review page.

#5 – Best Recumbent Exercise Bike for Heavier Users? The Exerpeutic 900XL

Exerpeutic are an American brand that provide fitness equipment for bigger, heavier people. Their 900XL Recumbent bike states that anyone up to 300 pounds (21.4 stone) can safely ride. This bike is a low-price when you consider the solid construction, wider than average cushioned seat and big pedals. Exerpeutic state that users up to 6 feet tall should have no problem.

Even at this low price point, you get a console, which is powered by two AA batteries. This displays all the key info, including calories burned, distance travelled and speed. At this lower end price, even the best recumbent bikes will have manually adjusted resistance. This model has 8 magnetic tension levels, and even includes a heart-rate monitor.

While you won’t get the style of the commercial-level bikes, anyone on the heavier side looking for a budget level and safe solution should consider the 900XL.

See the official Exerpeutic store at Amazon.co.uk for the full spec and price.

Alternatively, you can read my detailed review of the Exerpeutic 900 XL recumbent bike here.

 #6 – Best Recumbent Exercise Bike on a Budget RE100

My second entry for Birmingham-based JLL is a bargain for anyone that wants to enjoy a recumbent home bike without shelling out for commercial level kit.

The RE100 is high-quality, keeping the price low by leaving out the high-tech extras. You do get a console. While this is basic, it is plenty good enough to track the key stats and keep you informed about how many calories you have burned. You’ll track, time, speed, distance, calories, odometer, and your pulse rate.

This cheaper recumbent has a belt-driven 5kg flywheel. It has two-way action (so you can peddle backwards!). The seat has six adjustment levels, and the pedals keep your toes strapped in so that you won’t slip while working out. As with all JLL kit, the RE100 has multiple compliance certificates from official safety bodies.

While this machine is basic, it comes from a respected British brand who make popular budget and mid-priced kit that won’t let you down.

You can see the latest feedback (and full picture gallery) over on the RE100 bike page at the official JLL amazon.co.uk store.

Alternatively, here is my detailed review of the JLL RE100 recumbent exercise bike. 

Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes: Features Checklist

This section covers the specifics of choosing the best recumbent bike for your needs. I recommend having a scan through first, and then diving into the details of the features which catch your eye.

Resistance Type and Levels:

Resistance measures how hard it is to turn the peddles. At the lowest level, you’ll cycle through air – while the top levels can feel like you are climbing up the hill. Resistance levels can be controlled electronically, or in cheaper recumbent bikes you turn a dial. The smoothness, predictability and range of resistance levels will widely vary between different brands.

Console / Screen:

At the top end prices, you have the equivalent of a mini-HD TV to entertain you and control your settings. For those that don’t need the high-tech console, cheaper recumbents have LCD screens which show your speed, time, calories burned and distance only. Either way you should get a great workout. If you want to integrate with popular apps like iFit or Zwift, then make sure your model works for this. The best console of all is on the R35 from NordicTrack.

Heart Rate Monitor:

I like to see a heart rate monitor as standard before including any model into my list of the best recumbent exercise bikes. Standard setups are for a monitor to be built into the handlebars, which you find by the side of the seat. You grip this for 30 seconds (varies by brand), and your heart rate is displayed on the console. More advanced bikes are compatible with external heart-rate monitors. These are perfect for anyone aiming to advance their fitness. While you might ‘know’ your heart rate is up after a workout, knowing the rate will spotlight your improvement over time.

Pedals:

Pedals are important, and the ideal setup is so good that you’ll never even think about it. Compared to upright exercise bikes, I like oversized pedals on a recumbent. Look for a textured surface (you won’t need to think about your foot slipping) and straps. At the higher price point, you’ll find pedals which are slightly sloped inwards – compensating for the sat-back riding position.

Seat Comfort:

Recumbents without a comfy seat defeat the whole point of buying one. It is not so much whether the seat is comfortable, it is just how comfortable and well designed it is in comparison with models from other brands. Padded seats with back support are the starting point. Look for ergonomic design and for armrests. The handlebars next to the seat are another factor. They can have controls for speed and resistance, or a heart-rate monitor built-in. Make sure they are at a comfortable arm’s length.

Adjustability:

We are all different shapes and sizes, and recumbent home exercise bikes must be flexible enough to cope. While all the different models featured on this page will adjust, not all of them are adaptable enough to fit everyone perfectly. The distance between the seat and pedals is the primary adjustment. I like to see a sloped bar, so the seat gets higher as it moves backwards. You should also be able to adjust the seat itself, to make sure you get the perfect posture before you start to ride.

Size (Your Size and the Size of the Recumbent Bike)

Heavier users need to make sure they are under the recommended weight for each recumbent bike brand. The good news is that up to low-20’s in stone, there are options for you. The Exerpeutic bike is built for heavier users. If you are currency carrying more weight than you’d like, remember to speak to a medical professional before you start any exercise routine.

Style:

The best recumbent exercise bikes vary in style. Some people are not worried by the design, as long as their sit-back home bike helps them to stay fit. Others want a clean, modern look – and opt for the Scandinavian inspired NordicTrack. If the style you are looking for is closer to that you’ll find in commercial gyms, I recommend starting with the HHH from Sole Fitness.

Recumbent Bike App Compatibility:

I divide recumbent bikes into two types when it comes to app compatibility. Some work with their own apps (for example iConnect for the JLL RE600 or iFit for the ProForm and NordicTrack bikes. Others let you connect your phone or tablet and choose your own app. Popular apps like Zwift have community elements, in addition to tracking your progress.

Recumbent Exercise Bikes: Frequently Asked Questions

Who Should Choose and Use a Recumbent Exercise Bike?

It is a myth that recumbent exercise bikes are only best for unfit, overweight, or older users. The workout is just as good as any upright bike, and you’ll be more comfortable while you ride. I believe that recumbent bikes have a better chance of long-term use due to this comfort – meaning you’ll get more for your money whatever size, fitness level and age you are at.

Are Recumbent Exercise Bikes Good for Exercise and Fitness?

Yes, you get a great workout with the calorie burn dependant on how fast you peddle and the resistance level. Interval training, longer cardio sessions and hill climbs are all possible. You’ll burn up to 350 calories every hour – with even a moderate session burning 125 calories. Recumbent bikes are best for cardio workouts, and don’t let the comfortable seating position fool you into thinking that the workouts are somehow easier.

How Long is a Typical Workout on a Recumbent Exercise Bike?

20 minutes to 1 hour is the sweet spot for sessions on your new recumbent home exercise bike. At the lower end, you’ll be taking an exercise snack. While better than not working out, this is really just a warm-up compared to a real workout. Adding time to warm up, cool down and any longer, gentler rides can easily push your session over the hour mark. Why not consider some lightweight dumbbells and work your arms and shoulders at the same time as you peddle.

Which Recumbent Exercise Bikes are App Compatible?

NordicTrack, ProForm and the RE600 from JLL are all app compatible. The best of these recumbent exercise bikes has built-in high-definition monitors – working with apps that have live personal trainer sessions. By allowing the trainer to remotely control your resistance, you will climb hills and go on sprints at the same time as everyone else. A better value way to get your recumbent working with apps is to use your own phone or tablet – and connect with popular apps like Zwift.

How Much Should I Pay for a Recumbent Bike?

You can get an amazing recumbent for £1000 – and the best possible model that will last for years for under £2000. At the opposite end of the spectrum, a basic though good quality model is often found at under £250. I think of the higher spec recumbents from big brands like Sole Fitness and NordicTrack as investments. While the price seems higher, they will last for years – and you won’t need to upgrade as your fitness level improves. Note that several brands offer monthly payments to help spread the cost.

Recumbent Bikes vs Upright / Studio Exercise Bikes

For anyone on the fence between a recumbent and upright (or even studio) exercise bike, I explained the pros and cons below.

I recommend taking an honest look at your size, age, and fitness level first. If you are currently on the heavier side, older or starting your fitness journey over – a recumbent bike is ideal. A bonus is that the more comfortable riding position can get you using your indoor bike more often. If you find that folding exercise bike or upright uncomfortable, the statistical chances of continuing to use it goes down.

Positives for Recumbent Exercise Bikes:

• Far more comfortable riding position
• Better for heavier / older / less fit people
• Your Arms are free (you can add some arm workouts if you wish)
• Calorie burn rates in line with upright exercise bikes

Positives for Upright / Studio Style Bikes

• Sprints are easier (you can stand up, depending on the model you own)
• Smaller units, many will fold away between uses.
• Cheaper, especially at the bottom end
• More like the types of exercise bike you find in commercial gyms

The science appears to back up the effectiveness of recumbent bikes. This study shows that only one of four dominant muscles showed statistically significant differences during a comparison with upright models.

Alternatives: Floor Based Mini-Bikes (So You Can Sit on the Sofa)

Alternatives to recumbent home bikes need to be comfortable and give you a great workout. While rowing machines are sit-down, this is a little too intense for the kind of user that is considering a sit-back indoor bike.

Floor based fitness machines like mini-bikes or mini-elliptical trainers would fit this description. The idea is that you are sat at your favourite armchair, on the sofa or even at a desk. Your mini bike then gets you peddling away while you watch TV or read a book. You stay comfortable and burn those calories at the same time.

My picks are below – follow the links for detailed reviews:

• Mini Bike Example: The amazing Mangetrainer
• Mini-Elliptical Example: InMotion Under Desk Elliptical Trainer

One note on these floor-based machines. While they work, you won’t get the intensity or variation that you’ll get from a stand-alone exercise bike (recumbent or otherwise). All exercise is good, your decision is to keep things ticking over or to aim for fitness, weight loss and cardio health.

Wrapping Up: The Right Recumbent is Your Ticket to Getting Fit

By the time you reach this paragraph, you already know more about recumbent home exercise bikes than 90% of people. You’ll know which features matter to you, the price brackets and how to get a sit-back bikes that works with the latest technology, including live training apps.

Recumbent bikes are an investment that will pay off in terms of health and fitness for many years to come.

Their effectiveness comes from the comfort – which keeps you coming back for more rides.

I have repeated the table from the start of this page below.

By now you will have a much better idea of where your personal sweet spot is in terms of price vs features.

	Best Overall: The Stunning R35 Recumbent from NordicTrack Quality, style and tech! This beautifully designed recumbent has a 14" HD screen with live training through iFit. A stunning machine which is built to last.	Check Price!Detailed Review!
	Great Tech for the Price Point - ProForm C10R Recumbent This smart recumbent has everything that the higher priced units offer, at a great price point. This includes a 10" HD console unit.	Check Price!Detailed Review!
	Best for Commercial Gym Style - The LCR from Sole This home recumbent looks like the type you'd find in your local gym. The technology won't let you down while you work out.	Check Price!Detailed Review!
	Best British Brand: The Bargain JLL RE600 Pro Birmingham based JLL created a big recumbent with app-compatibility at a fraction of the cost of the major industry names...	Check Price!Detailed Review!
	Best for Heavier People: The XL900 from Exerpeutic Built for heavier people, this recumbent will let you burn those all-important calories with a sturdy, comfy seat and smooth action.	Check Price!Detailed Review!
	Best for Smaller Budgets: The Excellent RE100 from JLL Smaller than the RE600 above, the RE100 has JLL quality, and at the price point makes for a great way to get fit on a budget.	Check Price!Detailed Review