Exercise bikes can be a great addition to any Canadian home gym. These fitness machines are useful for a variety of reasons, with helping you achieve your fitness goals chief among them. There are many exercise bikes available in Canada, ready to suit various needs. With all these options within reach, you may need some assistance in narrowing them down.
To help with this challenge, we have created the ultimate list of best exercise bikes in Canada in 2024. We based this selection on criteria that Canadians find the most relevant when choosing an exercise bike. Here’s what we have to offer you on your quest to find the next exercise bike.
7 Best Exercise Bikes in Canada for 2024
- Best Overall: NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike
- Best Stability: CHAOKE Stationary Bike
- Best Console: Bowflex Velocore 22″ Bike
- Best Stationary Bike: Echelon Smart Connect Bike EX5
- Best Mini: MOMODA Desk Exercise Bike
- Best Spin Bike: DMASUN Exercise Bike
- Best Resistance: Bowflex C6 Bike
Why Did We Choose These Exercise Bikes in Canada?
As we evaluated these exercise bikes, we noticed that each shone in very specific areas. These bikes made our list of the best exercise bikes in Canada because of the ways they stood out. Here’s why we chose each of the exercise bikes on our list.
The NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike is our choice for best overall. This option includes terrain-matching incline and decline, along with a 22” smart HD touchscreen for additional convenience. The SmartAdjust technology creates personalized workouts that suit your goals and your preferences.
The CHAOKE Stationary Bike is made from a thickened frame tube, which adds stability, durability, and balance. Canadians using this bike can enjoy wobble-free workouts, along with a smooth and quiet ride. Adjustable options along the bike can give you a more custom fit that adapts to your body.
BowFlex’s Velocore 22” Bike has the best console on our list. The 22” HD touchscreen offers connectivity to a host of apps and programs, including subscription cycling services and streaming services (with your subscriptions).
The Echelon Smart Connect Bike EX5 is the best stationary bike in Canada. It integrates well with a ton of different apps. It features a ton of fitness tools to help take your exercise to the next level.
The MOMODA Desk Exercise Bike is a great mini option that can fit under your desk to help you achieve your fitness goals with extra convenience. This bike is great for both arm and leg workouts, and offers adjustable resistance levels. The compact and lightweight design includes non-slip pedals and a multifunction LCD monitor.
DMASUN makes the best spin bike on our list with the DMASUN Exercise Bike. This option mimics the feel of a road bike using seamless resistance adjustment. This is great for those who want a more natural feel for their exercise bike.
Finally, the Bowflex C6 Bike has the best resistance on our list. With over 100 resistance levels, you’ll be challenged no matter where you are starting from. Every fitness level will find something to appreciate about the way this bike handles resistance.
Best Overall
NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike
- Type: Studio
- Resistance Type: Magnetic
- Resistance Levels: 24
- Weight Limit: 158 kg
- Console: Smart HD Touchscreen
It's Great For:
- Canadians seeking incline control
- Those looking for premium sound
- People wishing for trainer-led sessions
- Steady balanced workouts
The NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike is a stylish choice for Canadian fitness fans looking for a great addition to their home gyms. This option comes with Silent Magnetic Resistance technology, which creates a smoother and quieter exercising session each time the bike is used. It also includes an inertia-enhanced flywheel designed to ensure a steadier and more long-lasting experience.
The pedals on the bike are 2-sided and versatile. You can use the SPD or toe cage options to securely use the pedals while you work out. The handlebars are comfortable to use thanks to the lift assist provided by the built-in gas shock. If you’re looking to enhance your workouts, you can use the included dual dumbbells to get your upper body muscles activated as you pedal.
The 22” smart HD touchscreen has a cooling processor to assist with the impressive graphics performance. You can enjoy the premium audio sound through the included Bluetooth headphone connectivity. For Canadians looking for trainer-led workouts, the NordicTrack comes with a range of iFIT options. The trainer workouts can take advantage of the auto adjust settings. Your trainer will be able to control your incline or decline as your session progresses, and you can simply focus on your workout.
This studio bike from NordicTrack comes with a 20% and -10% decline, along with terrain-matching that can provide an immersive experience, transporting you to landscapes from Europe to Asia.
Key Features
- Stylish Design. The look of the studio bike makes it fit in with any type of interior design in a Canadian home gym. This aesthetic appeal is enhanced by the comfort provided with the design.
- Terrain-Matching. This exercise bike provides terrain-matching to make the workout more immersive and to take full advantage of the 20% incline and -10% decline.
- Smart HD Touchscreen. The 22” touchscreen provides ample advantages, with a display that shows your stats or that can be used to follow specific workouts.
- Versatile Pedals. You can use the 2-sided non-slip pedals in whichever way feels more comfortable to you depending on the specifics of the workout session and your preferences.
Our Expert’s Take
“Impressive technology and advanced comfort make this exercise bike the perfect choice for many Canadians. The touchscreen and included programs give you all the tools you need to excel at your exercise plan.”
Best Stability
CHAOKE Stationary Bike
- Type: Stationary
- Resistance Type: Friction
- Resistance Levels: None
- Weight Limit: 136 kg
- Console: LCD Monitor
It's Great For:
- Canadians seeking low-impact training
- Those who want smooth operation
- People looking for some pre-assembly
- Fitness fans wishing for stability
The CHAOKE Stationary Bike can be a great addition to a Canadian home gym. With a thickened tube frame reinforced with alloy steel, this option provides an ultra-stable workout experience that is balanced to prevent wobbling. The belt-driven engineering creates a quiet environment even during the fitness sessions.
Those seeking increased safety should consider this stationary bike from CHAOKE. It has adjustable cage pedals to provide a better fit, and the flywheel can be stopped immediately with the press of the resistance bar when you need it. For extra portability, the wheels on the bike can help you easily move it from one area to another.
There is an LCD monitor included with the bike. This display will keep track of your performance as you work out, allowing you to check on stats such as speed, distance, calories, heart rate, and time spent exercising. Making note of these stats can help you achieve your fitness goals in a more streamlined way.
This full-body workout bike comes 70% pre-assembled, which can make setup very easy upon arrival. Its impressive stability is backed up by the triangular design and the innovative foot caps that prevent sliding. There is a multi-grip handlebar that can be adjusted, as can the seat height and the seat distance. The seat itself is cushioned to provide better comfort and a soft feel.
The bike includes real maps that you can follow on the display as you work out for a more immersive experience. It also adds practicality by occupying very little floor space.
Key Features
- Increased Safety. This exercise bike provides increased levels of safety thanks to the better fit provided by the adjustable pedals, and the reinforced alloy steel frame that minimizes wobbling.
- Stat Display. You can keep track of your performance during a workout by checking out the information on the LCD monitor.
- Easy Setup. The bike arrives 70% pre-assembled, which makes setup quicker and easier. There’s very little work involved with setting it up, so you’ll still have the energy to try it out afterwards.
- Belt-Driven Quiet. The bike uses a belt-driven friction system to keep workouts as smooth and quiet as possible. If you prefer to work out first thing in the morning, this option will be great for the rest of your household.
Our Expert’s Take
“The Chaoke Stationary Bike is more stable than most of the other exercise bikes on the Canadian market. It’s also compact and comfortable, with a simple setup.”
Best Console
Bowflex Velocore 22" Bike
- Type: Stationary
- Resistance Type: Magnetic
- Resistance Levels: 100
- Weight Limit: 147.4 kg
- Console: 22" HD touchscreen console
It's Great For:
- Canadians who are serious about fitness
- Those who like to watch shows or listen to music while working out
- Users who want additional riding styles on their stationary bike
- Those who want to track every part of their session over time
The Bowflex VeloCore 22” Bike is one of the most advanced stationary bikes we’ve seen. It’s one of the best stationary bikes in Canada for all the features it offers, including the unique Leaning Mode. This mode unshackles the bike from its stationary position, allowing you to lean to each side as you exercise. It helps make your workout feel more authentic and changes the pace of other indoor exercise bikes.
If you value a more natural-feeling bike, this is the option that will suit you best. Bowflex’s legendary features come through in so many ways here, including with the integrated 22” console. This HD touchscreen allows you to access your streaming subscriptions (including Netflix, Hulu, and more) as well as your JRNY subscription. If you use other fitness programs (such as Peloton and Zwift), you’ll have access to those here as well.
The console keeps track of a host of different metrics, including time, interval (with JRNY workouts only), distance, calories, burn rate, resistance, cadence, and heart rate. If you use the JRNY subscription (which comes free with the bike for a year), you can track these metrics over multiple workouts to visualize your progress.
There are 100 smooth magnetic resistance levels to test your mettle. Users of all fitness levels will find a resistance that works for them. The seat and handlebars are adjustable, so you can choose the most comfortable settings for you. It also comes with two 3-pound dumbbells so you can increase the effectiveness of each workout.
Key Features
- 2 Modes. The Bowflex Velocore includes a stationary mode and a leaning mode. The latter is a unique feature to the bike that caters to fitness fans seeking a challenge and a change of pace.
- Wide Range. There are 100 resistance levels available with this bike so that you can achieve the most suitable workout session for your strengths and preferences.
- Additional Fitness Options. The bike comes with two dumbbells for those looking to bulk up at the same time. It provides a great workout set that isn’t common with other exercise bikes.
- HD Touchscreen. You can use this 22” display to watch your favourite streaming services or to follow trainer-led workouts. It’s a great way to stay motivated!
Our Expert’s Take
“This option from Bowflex includes a wide range of resistance levels and the unique Leaning mode, designed for Canadian fitness lovers looking to get more out of their bike.”
Best Stationary Bike
Echelon Smart Connect Bike EX5
- Type: Stationary
- Resistance Type: Magnetic
- Resistance Levels: 32
- Weight Limit: 136 kg
- Console: None, Device Holder
It's Great For:
- Users up to 136kg (300lbs)
- Canadians who are serious about fitness
- Those of various heights due to multiple adjustment points
- Users with their own devices for apps and integration
The Echelon Smart Connect Bike EX5 is the best stationary bike in Canada. While it doesn’t have a display, it easily connects to your device’s Bluetooth connection to bring you on-demand trainers, courses, and other programs. With a subscription to the Echelon Fit App, you’ll have access to a host of fitness tools.
Of course, the device mount can also help you stay entertained while you’re cycling. The level of integration allows you to track your progress throughout your sessions, so you can see how you’ve improved. There are a full 32 magnetic levels of resistance, so you can slowly ramp up the intensity until you find a level that you are comfortable with.
If you are worried about a bike being too large or too small for you, you won’t have to worry about this bike. The EX5 is adjustable at several key points, including the handlebars and the seat. You can adjust it to the perfect size for you, so you’re as comfortable as possible while pursuing your fitness goals.
With a small footprint and a high weight limit (136kg, or 300lbs), this bike is well-suited for anyone. Those just getting started will find it simple to use, while fitness experts can find things to appreciate as well.
Key Features
- Bluetooth Connectivity. This bike features Bluetooth connectivity that allows you to connect various devices to it so you can access in-depth metrics and other workout programs, as well as headphones.
- Practical Accessories. There are 2 bottle holders on the handlebar, and a weight rack is included for the provided dumbbells.
- Adjustable Options. You can adjust the seat and the handlebars so that they can suit a wide range of heights. This can provide a more personalized fit.
- Fit for All Levels. The bike comes with 32 resistance levels that can suit all types of exercise bike fans, no matter the level of experience.
Our Expert’s Take
“This stationary bike offers a ton of features, including 32 different resistant levels and Bluetooth connectivity. It’s one of the best options on our list regardless of your level of fitness experience.”
Best Mini
MOMODA Desk Exercise Bike
- Type: Desk Bike
- Resistance Type: Friction
- Resistance Levels: 5
- Weight Limit: 80 kg
- Console: LCD Monitor
It's Great For:
- Canadians seeking an under desk bike
- Those who want portability
- People looking for a mini option
- Injury rehabilitation
The MOMODA Desk Exercise Bike is an ideal mini option for Canadians wishing to exercise while working. This portable solution can be placed under a desk or on it for extra practicality. The design features multi-function use as it provides leg and arm workout options for a range of portable exercises.
You can use this convenient desk bike while doing other activities, whether those are work-related or indulging in hobbies. This can create a more entertaining workout experience to those who don’t always feel like engaging in it. To create more customized sessions, the desk bike includes adjustable tension that you can personalize simply by rotating the knob.
This easy-to-use option is an ideal solution for those seeking a smooth workout experience, especially if elderly or recovering from an injury. The bike provides low-impact training with a lightweight build that can be easily transported from one location to another. This bike includes an LCD monitor that is straightforward to use. It can display various stats related to your workout sessions, including time, distance, calories, RPM, and speed. You can easily switch between stats on the display with the press of a button, and you can also reset the readings.
There are pedals that can be used for hands and feet, each of them featuring a non-slip texture. They also include adjustable toe loops and molded finger grips. The steel frame of this mini exercise bike ensures its stability.
Key Features
- Compact Size. This exercise bike is easy to use, to carry, and to store. It can be placed on a desk or under it so that it can keep you company, especially while working or watching something.
- Multi-Function. The bike is designed for arm and leg exercises, an ideal solution for those recovering from injuries or who generally can’t partake in intense workouts.
- LCD Stats. The included LCD monitor displays various stats that allow you to monitor your performance. You can keep track of how you do over time to track your fitness improvement!
- Good Stability. While the MOMODA Desk Exercise Bike looks too small to be stable, the steel frame build actually improves function and provides plenty of stabilization features.
Our Expert’s Take
“This mini exercise bike is a great way to keep track of fitness goals for those who prefer less intense workouts. Those with different ability levels or expertise levels can enjoy a worthwhile workout with this under-desk bike.”
Best Spin Bike
DMASUN Exercise Bike
- Type: Spin
- Resistance Type: Magnetic
- Resistance Levels: Unspecified
- Weight Limit: 150 kg
- Console: None, Device Holder
It's Great For:
- Canadians who want a realistic road feel
- Those who want to gradually increase the resistance
- Users who want to track metrics in real-time
- Shorter users or taller Canadians
The DMASUN Exercise Bike is one of the best spin bikes in Canada. These unique bikes mimic the feel of the road, so you get a more unique long-distance cycling experience for your workout. It’s a quiet, smooth experience that isn’t likely to disturb your neighbors or your family, no matter what time of the day you prefer to exercise.
This bike doesn’t specify the number of resistance levels featured in its magnetic resistance system. Instead, you can gradually increase or decrease the resistance to your desired level. With six magnets instead of the usual four, the resistance is much smoother than with standard adjustment. This helps this bike feel like a more authentic experience.
You don’t have to worry about height adjustment, either. This bike adjusts from about 5’0” and up, ensuring that most riders will be able to comfortably use the bike. You can adjust the seat four different ways, and the handlebars adjust in two different ways. This means that you can create the perfect environment for your most comfortable workout, no matter what height you are.
The console display consists of a small LCD screen. Here, you’ll find metrics like your time, speed, calories, pulse, and distance. Pulse is measured on the handlebars, and everything else can be cycled on the LCD. Below is a device holder, which keeps hold of your phone or tablet to display your favorite workout programs or entertainment.
Key Features
- Upright Spin Design. This high-performance spin design creates an immersive effect that can feel very similar to cycling on the road. If you want an authentic feel for an exercise bike, it doesn’t get much better than this.
- Upgraded System. The enhanced magnetic design includes 6 magnets to create a smoother experience that adds even more authenticity.
- Quiet Build. This bike is an ideal choice for those looking to work out at home without creating too much noise. You won’t disturb anyone else in your household when you use this exercise bike.
- Adaptive Resistance Levels. With this bike, you can gradually increase resistance levels as you go, or you can amp up the workout by immediately choosing higher tension.
Our Expert’s Take
“This exercise bike from DMASUN features adaptive resistance levels with an upgraded design that emulates real-life cycling.”
Best Resistance
Bowflex C6 Bike
- Type: Stationary
- Resistance Type: Magnetic
- Resistance Levels: 100
- Weight Limit: 150 kg
- Console: Backlit LCD
It's Great For:
- Those who are interested in connecting fitness apps to the bike
- Users who already have their own iOS or Android devices
- Canadians who need a quiet workout session
- Those who want advanced tracking capabilities
The Bowflex C6 Bike offers the best resistance on our list. With 100 different smooth, magnetic levels, you’re sure to find the perfect way to ramp up your favourite exercises. This bike integrates perfectly with your device via Bluetooth. Here, you can access your Peloton App, Zwift App, and any other fitness integrations you already have (including JRNY). Of course, you can also use the device mount to keep yourself entertained while you work out.
Tired of having your palms glued to the pulse trackers to keep your heart rate on screen? This bike has fixed that problem. It comes with a Bluetooth HR armband, which tracks your heart rate in real-time and sends the information to the console. It’s completely hands-free, so you can continue to work out without having to be in the perfect position for the pulse sensors.
This bike is extremely quiet, no matter which of the 100 resistance levels you choose. It won’t disturb your neighbors or your family, even if you’re working out in the middle of the night. And you can wear the shoes you want, too – the dual-sided pedals feature clips and a toe cage so you can adjust no matter what type of shoe you’re wearing.
This bike is also extremely adjustable. There are a ton of different adjustment points, including the seat and handlebars. If you are very tall (or very short), you’ll still be able to find your perfect cycling position. There are dual water bottle holders on either side of the frame, as well as a rack for two 3-pound dumbbells. Altogether, this exercise bike offers everything you need to get your workout done, including a ton of subtle resistance levels so you can truly test yourself.
Key Features
- Great Resistance. There are 100 magnetic resistance levels included with the bike, allowing you to personalize your workout sessions and enjoy a smooth ride.
- Bluetooth Armband. This armband can connect through Bluetooth to the bike and keep track of your heart rate without additional input.
- Dual-Sided Pedals. The pedals included with the bike can be used with various types of shoes for additional practicality.
- Adjustable for All Heights. Canadian users can adjust the height of the handlebars and the seat to make sure they fit as they should. If you are shorter or taller then average., this Bowflex bike might be more comfortable.
Our Expert’s Take
“The Bowflex C6 Bike offers great resistance and an innovative Bluetooth armband to keep track of your heart rate. Up to 100 magnetic resistance levels and dual pedals allow you to use the options that work best for you.”
Comparing the Best Exercise Bikes for Canadians
| Category | Exercise Bikes | Type | Resistance Type | Resistance Levels | Console |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike | Studio | Magnetic | 24 | Smart HD Touchscreen |
| Best Stability | CHAOKE Stationary Bike | Stationary | Friction | None | LCD Monitor |
| Best Console | Bowflex Velocore 22" Bike | Stationary | Magnetic | 100 | 22" HD Touchscreen Console |
| Best Stationary Bike | Echelon Smart Connect Bike EX5 | Stationary | Magnetic | 32 | None, Device Holder |
| Best Mini | MOMODA Desk Exercise Bike | Desk Bike | Friction | 5 | LCD Monitor |
| Best Spin Bike | DMASUN Exercise Bike | Spin | Magnetic | Unspecified | None, Device Holder |
| Best Resistance | Bowflex C6 Bike | Stationary | Magnetic | 100 | Backlit LCD |
How We Selected These Exercise Bikes in Canada
Our years in the home and living industries have given us an edge when it comes to most products. From sleep accessories to mattresses and kitchen appliances, we’ve looked at them all! We put all of the best exercise bikes in Canada through rigorous expert analysis and hours of research.
During the evaluation process, we looked at these performance areas.
- Type of Bike. There are a few different types of exercise bikes, and some are more useful than others. We paid close attention to the type of bike we recommended.
- Resistance Type. Resistance type has a lot to do with user experience. Magnetic resistance is the smoothest option, so we chose bikes with this option whenever possible.
- Resistance Levels. The number of resistance levels determines how much the bike can challenge you. We tried to go with options that offered many resistance levels, as well as some that offered just a few.
- Weight Limit. Weight limit should be observed to safely operate a bicycle. Make sure to keep track of how much weight an exercise bike can support without becoming damaged. We chose options with a wide variety of weight limit options.
Benefits of Using an Exercise Bike in Canada
The exercise bike is one of the most popular pieces of workout equipment in Canada and beyond. But why do people like exercise bikes so much? Does it really provide enough benefits to consider purchasing one for your home gym?
Before you can answer those questions, we need to look at the benefits associated with the use of an exercise bike. First, many Canadians with joint problems like exercise bikes because they are low-impact exercise machines. They are gentle on your knees, back, and hips, especially since you can usually sit at the bike to reduce pressure on your lower body. If you need extra support in this area while working out, an exercise bike might be the solution for you. Exercise bikes are also easier to use than more complicated workout equipment. It’s fairly easy to get started without watching a guide first or needing help with setup.
Bicycling itself offers many health benefits, especially if you do it regularly. These include toning and strengthening your muscles (particularly your core and lower body muscles), as well as burning calories. Canadians who are seeking better heart health will appreciate potential heart benefits due to the heavy cardio that takes place while you pedal.
Exercise bikes offer tons of great benefits, and they are especially helpful for beginners who want to get a head start on their fitness journey.
How to Choose an Exercise Bike for Canadians
Before you can choose the right exercise bike for your home gym, there are a few things you need to know. Most of the time, you can’t just pick a random bike and hope for the best. You should choose one that works with your skill level and space. Keep the following features in mind as you shop for the best exercise bikes in Canada.
Type
There are a few different types of exercise bikes represented on our list. You should choose the option that best appeals to you, keeping in mind your fitness level and needs.
- Stationary bikes are your standard, upright exercise bikes. These bikes may use a standing position (like in an upright exercise bike) or may include a seat to allow for some reclining while you work out. These bikes include a screen to track progress and use a modified pedal position from a normal outdoor bicycle. The best stationary bikes in Canada have multiple levels of magnetic resistance, as well as comprehensive metric tracking over time.
- Spin bikes, on the other hand, are meant to mimic the natural feel of an outdoor bicycle while you’re working out indoors. Spin bikes transition smoothly from one resistance to another, creating a gradual difficulty ramp (such as pedalling uphill would produce). These bikes also use a more natural pedal position. The best spin bikes in Canada have undefined resistance levels because of the gradual nature of their resistance.
- Recumbent bikes allow you to reduce the strain on your lower back as you work out. These bikes often have wider seats and a reclined position. They are comfortable, supportive, and focus only on your lower body.
Resistance Type
Resistance type can make a big difference in how quickly your machine is ready to go, how loud it is, and how smoothly it changes between resistances. There are a few different types of resistance, but most exercise bikes use magnetic resistance.
Magnetic resistance is the smoothest option available on the Canadian market today. Magnetic resistance uses a magnet on each side of the flywheel. The magnets move closer to the flywheel when tension is decreased, and close when tension is increased. Most of the exercise bikes on our list use magnetic resistance, though some use manual options.
There are other resistant types for exercise bikes, but they are far less common in quality machines. Magnetic resistance is the standard, especially on our list.
Resistance Levels
The resistance levels on your exercise bike can tell you what the bike is capable of. A bike with more resistance levels, for instance, might not be for beginners. The number of resistance levels you need depends on the fitness level of the people using the bikes. If you frequently use your bike and want more of a challenge, choose an exercise bike with about 100 resistance levels.
You can choose options with fewer levels. Manual resistance adjustment, however, might have between 6 and 10 different resistance levels. This is great for occasional use.
Weight Limit
Like with any exercise equipment, your exercise bike may have a weight limit. The weight limit on any piece of equipment should be observed. If you exceed this weight limit, you could cause damage to the machine, cause it to work improperly, or void the warranty. Most exercise machines will inform you of the weight limit before you make a purchase.
To play it safe, make sure to choose an exercise bike with a weight limit that easily fits your weight. Remember, there are no weight minimums. This means that you can choose one that’s closest to your weight without being afraid of going too low.
Console
The control console and screen can make a huge difference in how much you enjoy an exercise bike. A bike with a large touchscreen with streaming, multiple programs, and a lot of different exercise tracks can make your time on your bike more enjoyable. However, most bikes have a device stand to help improve your experience with them, especially if you enjoy watching media or listening to music while you work out.
The console might be a touchscreen, or it might be a small LCD screen that rotates between different progress metrics. As it’s an important part of the exercise bike, you should choose an option that works best for you. If you have your own tablet and would prefer to use it, consider an exercise bike that integrates directly with your device.
Choosing the console type you’re most comfortable with or excited to use can make a world of difference.
Metrics
Most bikes keep track of your metrics in some capacity. These are self-explanatory figures that can help you record your progress over time, as well as tell you how much you’re doing during each session.
Some common metrics that exercise bikes will track are:
- Calories
- Distance
- Time
- Speed
- RPM (Rotations Per Minute)
- Heart Rate (if pulse trackers are available)
- Resistance
- And more
The possibilities for the metrics tracked are endless. With some bikes, you can keep track of your progress over time through various integrated fitness apps. As long as you connect your device to the bike via Bluetooth (and pay for the app subscription), you can see how you’re improving over multiple exercise sessions. This makes setting goals simple and effective.
Look for metrics that you prefer to track as you work out. If you only want to track calories, time, or distance, there are many more options that will suit you. In these cases, you might not need the extra metrics. As monitors and tracking systems can drastically raise the price of an exercise bike, it’s best to focus on the options you will use.
Size
How big is the bike? The size of the bike (including the footprint, weight, and frame dimensions) can determine where it will fit in your home. If you have a smaller home gym, for instance, avoid choosing a bike that requires more space. If you don’t have much room, to begin with, consider a folding exercise bike. These options may help save you space, as they can be stored when not in use.
The weight of the bike is important when you consider how often you’ll move it, as well as where you’ll place it in your home. Choose a bike that isn’t too heavy for you to move on your own. On the other hand, you want a bike that is sturdy enough to withstand rigorous exercise sessions.
You must determine the space you have in your home before you can choose the right exercise bike.
Power Source
Some exercise bikes work without power. Bikes with manual resistance adjustment, for example, don’t require any power to run effectively. The console section, which monitors your progress, might require a battery to work.
On the other hand, more complicated bikes may require a power outlet. Exercise bikes with large touchscreens integrated into the console, as well as consoles with multiple complicated controls or programs, might require an outlet to work at all.
The power source you prefer is a personal preference. You can choose the one that works best for your space and lifestyle. If you prefer not to be tethered to a wall, feel free to choose a bike that uses a battery for the screen instead. If you don’t mind keeping the bike near an outlet for your workouts, feel free to choose one that uses a power cord.
Height Accommodations
The ability to adjust the bike in various ways is critical. Ideally, there will be multiple points of adjustment throughout the handlebars and seats to accommodate users of different heights. Sometimes, exercise bike companies will disclose the heights that their bike is best for. If possible, use these guidelines to determine if the bike will work for you.
Some of the best exercise bikes in Canada have multiple layers of adjustment, too. You’ll often find handlebars that adjust up, down, forward, and backward, as well as seats that adjust forwards and backward. Usually, pedals cannot be adjusted because of the position of the flywheel. Still, look for as many adjustments as possible, especially if you are very tall or very short.
You definitely want to make sure that you know the range of adjustments available for each part of the bike. This can help you determine if the bike is a good fit for you, particularly if you are on the taller side (or the shorter side). Everyone should feel comfortable while working out, so choosing the right bike size with the proper accommodations is important.
Seat
The seat on your exercise bike can be extremely important, especially if you plan on using the bike frequently. The best stationary bikes in Canada have cushioned, padded seats that make sitting upright comfortable without any unpleasant feelings. If the bike you’re looking at only has a standard bicycle seat, you might want to think about upgrading it in the future.
The best seats don’t use the moulded bicycle model at all. Instead, they feature a larger, cushioned surface with lumbar support back. While some upright bikes may not be designed to use this type of seating arrangement, it can be beneficial in some stationary bikes.
Make sure to use the seat that is most comfortable for you. Keep in mind that some companies offer additional seat models you can install on your bike, which might help if you choose one that isn’t working for you.
Special Attachments
In addition to all the features your exercise bike offers, you might find an exercise bike that features some special attachments. Some of the most common attachments are water bottle holders, which keep your hydration close at hand during your exercise sessions. Some bikes even have two water bottle holders.
Bikes might also include device holders, which can include a place for your tablet or phone. This keeps them out of your hands, but still close enough that you can use them if you need to. You might also encounter dumbbell racks attached to the frame, which can help take your cycling to another level altogether.
Regardless of what special attachments you need, you’re sure to find a bike that provides what you’re looking for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Exercise bikes are a great way for Canadians to get a high-intensity workout at home without the hassle of going to the gym. For those with joint issues, an exercise bike can have less impact than using a treadmill or going for a run. While exercise bikes may be an initial investment, they can be a wonderful addition to your home gym and can be used by multiple household members.
Canadians with limited space in their homes may worry that an exercise bike will take up a lot of space. While some exercise bikes are larger models and do take up space in your home gym, there are options for users who want compact models that can easily fit in an office or bedroom. For an ultra-small option, the MOMODA Desk Exercise Bike fits right under your desk, allowing you to get a workout in while working from home.
Most exercise bikes are designed to last for many years, but they do require regular maintenance in order to ensure a long lifespan. You should regularly wipe down and clean your exercise bike and inspect parts regularly for any damage or rust. Most exercise bikes will include a warranty, and keeping original receipts and all paperwork is important if you ever need to make a claim.
Canadians on the hunt for an exercise bike with lots of tech features will love the Bowflex VeloCore 22” Bike. This bike has an extra large touchscreen display that is perfect for streaming TV and movies on the most popular apps, as well as easy-to-follow workout routines and fitness metric tracking. Many other exercise bikes on the market also have great features like Bluetooth connection and streaming capabilities.
With so many different options on the market, it can be overwhelming to understand the differences between the types of exercise bikes. There are three common types of exercise bikes, all easily available to buy in Canada. A stationary bike is a common, upright exercise bike that uses resistance, and a spin bike is also upright but is more natural, like riding a bike outside. A recumbent bike is an exercise bike that is reclined and is often easier for those with knee issues.
