A recumbent bike is a perfect alternative for those with joint issues, back issues, or standard aches and pains. If you still want to get your cardio in, a recumbent bike can make exercising a lot more comfortable. There are a lot of exercise bikes on the Canadian market, but most of them do not offer the additional support of a recumbent bike.
We evaluated the best recumbent bikes in Canada and landed on these options. These bikes offer unique features we can get behind. We recommended these bikes based on a few performance areas, including resistance type and levels, display, pulse monitoring, and overall size. Here are the best recumbent bikes in Canada for 2024.
Best Recumbent Bikes for Canadians in 2024
- Best Overall: Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike
- Best Folding: XTERRA FB350 Folding Exercise Bike
- Best Smartphone App: Merach Recumbent Exercise Bike
- Best 2 in 1: Lanos Portable 2-in-1 Exercise Bike
- Best for Taller Users: Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Bike
- Best Seat Adjustment: Sunny Health & Fitness Essential Recumbent Exercise Bike
Why Did We Choose These Recumbent Bikes in Canada?
As we evaluated each of the bikes on our list, they began to stand out to us in specific ways. These standout features became the reason we decided to put them on our list. Here are the reasons these recumbent bikes made it to our list of the best recumbent bikes in Canada.
Schwinn’s 270 Recumbent Bike features a backlit LCD display with multiple metric sections. It’s the best recumbent bike we found on the Canadian market, with multiple features that allow for better quality of life.
If you have a smaller gym and need to fold your bike to get it out of the way, look no further than the XTERRA FB350 Folding Exercise Bike. This option folds down nearly half its size, so you can easily slide it under the bed or into the closet for storage.
Those looking for a bike that pairs with your smartphone will love the Merach Recumbent Exercise Bike. This bike seamlessly connects via Bluetooth to your smartphone to provide you with real-time health and workout data.
If you want a recumbent bike and an upright option, the Lanos Portable 2-in-1 Exercise Bike is the best. This option easily transforms between the two bike styles, folding up for storage when your workout is complete.
The Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Bike is one of the best options on our list for taller users. The adjustable seat can be adjusted without getting up, so it’s easy to find your perfect range based on the length of your legs.
The Sunny Health & Fitness Essential Recumbent Exercise Bike provides the best seat adjustment we found. A lever on the side of the seat allows you to change the position while you’re seated, so you’ll always find the perfect spot.
Best Overall
Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike
- Resistance: Magnetic
- Tension Levels: 25
- Dimensions: 162.6cm x 70.4cm x 126.7cm
- Max Weight Capacity: 136kg (300lbs)
- Display: Backlit LCD
It's Great For:
- Users who want to monitor their progress with a connected Bluetooth app
- Canadians who have their own devices for programs and apps
- Experts and beginners
- Those who want more resistance levels than other bikes offer
Schwinn’s 270 Recumbent Bike is one of the best recumbent bikes in Canada overall. The dual displays keep track of a host of metrics and options, including your time, rotations per minute, distance, heart rate, and more. You can also find your completion percentage for 29 pre-loaded programs, goal tracking, an intensity meter, and a course profile that helps you see what’s coming next. This display is fully backlit, making it easy to see your goals and metrics during your workout.
You can also use the included device shelf to view streaming programs from the Explore the World app. This compatible subscription communicates directly with the bike, providing over 50 world courses to view while you work out. It also tracks a few of your metrics as you go, so you can have some idea of how well you’re doing. This app also allows you to view your goals and metrics across multiple sessions.
Worried about the seat being comfortable? It’s got a lot of padding! His large seat is contoured as well, meaning you’ll get the most out of it. You can adjust the seat forward and back to find the perfect position for your height. There are 25 different levels of magnetic resistance to explore, so you can start small or start in the middle. Either way, you’re sure to improve if you keep pedaling.
Key Features
- Explore the World App. With more than 50 HD travel courses, you can lose yourself in new places while achieving a high-demand workout.
- LCD Display Screen. This double LCD screen tracks more metrics than many other recumbent bikes on the Canadian market.
- Adjustable Seat. This highly comfortable and fully adjustable seat is large enough that all body types will feel supported.
- Multiple Resistant Levels. The Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike features over 25 levels of magnetic resistance, ensuring that you can still feel challenged as your fitness level increases.
Our Expert’s Take
“This exercise bike’s extensive features are what sets it apart from every other bike on the market, including built-in apps and resistance levels that even advanced users will love.”
Best Folding
XTERRA FB350 Folding Exercise Bike
- Resistance: Manual
- Tension Levels: 8
- Dimensions: 102.9cm x 53.3cm x 128.3cm
- Max Weight Capacity: 102kg (225lbs)
- Display: Small LCD Window
It's Great For:
- Canadians with smaller home gym spaces
- Shorter Canadians
- Users up to 225lbs (102kg)
- Those who want to track heart rate while they work out
The XTERRA FB350 Folding Exercise Bike is another 2-in-1 model that can be configured for upright or recumbent use. Either way, it offers eight levels of resistance, heart rate tracking, and a compact folding size that works well no matter where you put it. If you need the smallest bike to fit into a smaller living space, this is the perfect option for you. It becomes less than half its size when folded down.
A simple readjustment of the knob on the frame transforms this bike from an upright model to a recumbent model and back again. Either way, the bike remains small and simple to use. There aren’t a lot of complicated controls or multiple button modes. The small LCD screen tracks a few necessary metrics, such as your pulse, speed, distance, time, and calories. Keep track of these statistics to keep track of your progress from session to session.
There are 8 levels of manual resistance, meaning the level has to be changed by stopping the bike. It gives you a break before cranking up the difficulty, which can be useful for some users. Heart rate grips on the upright handles keep track of your pulse, so you can know when you hit your optimal pulse range for the best workout.
Finally, this is an incredibly smooth recumbent bike that makes your workouts a bit more comfortable. It’s quiet and the resistance doesn’t drag or stutter. The way that it folds down makes it one of the best options for those who need the extra space.
Key Features
- Folds for Storage. Those with limited storage will love that this bike frame folds down to half its size for convenient storage.
- Slim Design. Though slender in nature, this small seat and back are well-padded for extra comfort. Even when it is unfolded, this bike won’t take up much space.
- Multiple Resistance Levels. With eight manual resistance levels, those of all fitness levels will enjoy using this exercise bike.
- Heart Rate Grips. The XTERRA FB350 Folding Exercise Bike includes heart rate pulse grips to help you stay in your ideal and healthy range for each workout.
Our Expert’s Take
“This small, portable exercise bike is perfect for Canadians with limited storage. Despite its small size, it hosts a ton of great features.”
Best Smartphone App
Merach Recumbent Exercise Bike
- Resistance: Magnetic
- Tension Levels: 8
- Dimensions: 132 cm x 63. 5cm x 97.5 cm
- Max Weight Capacity: 136kg (300lbs)
- Display: LCD Monitor
It's Great For:
- Tech-savvy Canadians
- Heavier users
- Those wanting online training
- Long term usage
The Merach Recumbent Exercise Bike is our favourite choice for an included smartphone app. With a variety of training and real-time live health monitoring, this bike has a lot to offer for tech-savvy users. Beyond the screens, the Merach bike is supportive and comfortable and has multiple resistance levels.
This bike is adjustable in most ways, including an inseam adjustment of 29.5” to 37” that moves the seat closer to the pedals. The seat can also be adjusted for comfort and angle and is ideal for those with any back or lumbar issues.
Whether you are a beginner, an advanced user, or somewhere in between, the eight levels of magnetic resistance will challenge you every step of the way. Unlike some other bikes that have limited range, you won’t get bored with this option. For an easier workout, try a lower level, and when you want to step it up, simply increase the tension. It’s easy to switch the levels, making it a good choice if more than one household member happens to use the bike.
The included smartphone app allows you to choose from multiple training sessions, timed and targeted practices and view all current health statistics and monitoring. The bike has heart rate grips that sync to the LCD display screen and pair to your app seamlessly.
With a wide seat and a weight limit of 300 lbs, most Canadians will find this bike to be comfortable and accessible. It includes a water bottle holder, which is a great way to help keep you hydrated. The entire recumbent bike can be assembled in less than 30 minutes, which is shorter than most others on the market.
Key Features
- Adjustable Seat. The inseam can be adjusted from 29.5” to 37”, and the seat angle can be shifted as well, ensuring those of all heights will be comfortable.
- Smartphone App. With an included app that provides training sessions, practice guides and health tracking, it’s easy to stay on track with this bike.
- LCD Display. The easy-to-read LCD display screen shows workout information and important metrics like heart rate. You can compare information over time and keep track of your most effective workout periods.
- Multiple Resistant Levels. With eight levels of distinct magnetic resistance for every skill level, you can up your workout as you get stronger, always feeling challenged.
Our Expert’s Take
“Tech-savvy Canadians will love this recumbent bike, which pairs easily with their smartphone for great workout tips and real-time health data.”
Best 2 in 1
Lanos Portable 2 in 1 Exercise Bike
- Resistance: Magnetic
- Tension Levels: 10
- Dimensions: 67.3cm x 49.5cm x 119.4cm
- Max Weight Capacity: 150kg (330lbs)
- Display: LCD Computer
It's Great For:
- Canadians who want an upright bike and a recumbent bike
- Those who want a comfortable seat that still mimics a bicycle seat
- Users with smaller home gyms
- Those between 4’6” and 6’0” in height
The Lanos Portable 2-in-1 Exercise Bike is the best convertible exercise bike on our list. This option can adjust in multiple different ways. Start in a recumbent position, then reposition to an upright position when your fitness levels improve. You can also fold the bike to make room in your home gym, storing it securely in a closet or under a bed for the next time you want to use it.
Canadians who live in smaller homes, or those who don’t have a lot of space in their home gyms, will love the compact feel of this bike. You can still recline against the comfortable lumbar backrest as you pedal. The large, molded bicycle-style seat is comfortable enough for most users. You can use either the recumbent handlebars on either side of the seat or the stationary arms with pulse monitors.
The LCD display monitor can track your heart rate through the pulse sensors on the stationary handlebars. This small display also tracks your distance, speed, calories, and more. When you’re keeping track of your fitness goals, these metrics can help you determine when you are improving.
It’s also adjustable, with a seat that can be moved up or down. The back of the seat can also be extended or lowered, depending on where you find it most comfortable. Adjust it with the simple adjustment knob to find the best position for your workouts.
There are 10 magnetic resistance levels available on this bike. The manual adjustment knob can be changed when the bike isn’t in operation. Regardless of the tension level (even at the highest tension), the bike is quiet and won’t make it difficult to hear your entertainment options.
Key Features
- Large Height Range. Users between 4’6” and 6’0” in height can use this bike, making it accessible for most Canadians. This range is larger than some of the other popular options on the Canadian market.
- Convertible Bike Style. This unique feature allows the bike to easily convert from a recumbent bike to an upright one. If you want to use both types of exercise bikes, this is an invaluable feature.
- Multiple Resistance Levels. With 10 different magnetic resistance levels, everyone from beginners to more advanced users will be able to use this bike to its full potential.
- LCD Display Screen. The Lanos Portable 2-in-1 Exercise Bike features an easy-to-read LCD monitor, which shows distance, speed, time, calories, and pulse.
Our Expert’s Take
“Canadians seeking a great combination style bike will love this option, which also has extensive magnetic resistance levels and an easy-to-use LCD Display.”
Best for Taller Users
Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Bike
- Resistance: Magnetic
- Tension Levels: 8
- Dimensions: 63.5cm x 133.4cm x 118.1cm
- Max Weight Capacity: 136kg (300lbs)
- Display: LCD Computer
It's Great For:
- Canadians of all heights
- Those who need better access to the bike seat
- Users up to 136 kg (300 lbs)
- Those who want to work up to a higher resistance slowly
If you have ever struggled to find your perfect height setting on an exercise bike, you aren’t alone. Many taller Canadians (and shorter ones, too) will find the seat adjustment on this bike is ideal for them. There are multiple settings for the seat, and you can move it while you’re sitting down. This allows you to get the perfect setting for you without any hassle.
In addition to excellent adjustment, this exercise bike offers six levels of adjustable resistance. You don’t have to rely on any technology to adjust the tension, either. You can use the knob on the front of the machine to increase or decrease resistance as you see fit. These preset levels can help emulate the feeling of riding over hills and valleys on your bike. The magnetic resistance is smooth and effective.
If you’ve ever struggled to get onto an exercise bike because of the beams and supports across the centre, this option might be great for you. There are no bars in the centre of the bike except for one on the floor. This means you can get on and off the bike easily, especially after long sessions with tired legs. This bike offers a premium steel construction that can support users up to 300 lbs. Thick foam handles and counterbalanced pedals add to the elevated feeling of this recumbent bike.
Key Features
- Adjustable Seat. The adjustable seat ensures users of all heights will be comfortable and well-supported while they work out. Taller Canadians and shorter users alike can find the option that works best for them.
- Multiple Resistance Levels. With six preset resistance levels, beginners to advanced users will be able to use this bike. You can challenge yourself or start slow to achieve your fitness goals.
- LCD Display. The Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Bike has an easy-to-read LCD display that helps keep track of multiple metrics in real-time.
- Foam Handles. For added comfort, the handles are covered in cushy foam, making riding more pleasant, especially for longer durations.
Our Expert’s Take
“This bike has great adjustment capabilities, and its metric monitoring helps to keep users focused on their health and motivated to work out.”
Best Seat Adjustment
Sunny Health & Fitness Essential Recumbent Exercise Bike
- Resistance: Magnetic
- Tension Levels: 8
- Dimensions: 116.84cm x 62.23cm x 96.52cm
- Max Weight Capacity: 136kg (300lbs)
- Display: Digital Monitor
It's Great For:
- Users who want to adjust the seat as they’re using the bike
- Canadians who want to store the bike between uses
- Those who prefer a wider seat
- Users up to 300lbs (136kg)
Sunny Health & Fitness’s Essential Recumbent Exercise Bike features the best seat adjustment on any of the bikes we looked at. While most bikes use a manual knob to adjust the seat and the seat back, this bike uses a lever. The lever can be used while you’re still seated, allowing you to find the perfect spot to get comfortable while you exercise. The seat is also one of the largest available, with a wider base and seat back, both cushioned to accommodate most Canadians.
The length of the inseam is adjustable as well, allowing you to make the distance between the seat and the pedals shorter or longer as needed. This means that it works for most Canadians, even those who are shorter (or those with longer legs). The self-leveling pedals are also comfortable to use. They work well to keep your feet right where they belong, with adjustable straps that can perfectly fit your need.
There are 8 levels of magnetic resistance here, which you can adjust with a knob on the frame of the bike. Each level makes a noticeable difference, allowing you to customize your workout experience and challenge yourself.
A digital monitor and pulse sensors on the recumbent arms help you keep track of important statistics while you exercise. Though this monitor looks simple, it can easily track your time, speed, distance, and calories. It has a scan function to track progress over time, as well as an odometer. Here, you’ll see your heart rate as well, provided you are using the pulse sensors.
When you are done working out, you can easily tilt the lightweight bike up and move it around on the transportation wheels. Store it out of sight in a closet or move it to another room for a change of scenery.
Key Features
- Adjustable Seat. This seat is easy to adjust, even while currently on the bike, which eliminates clunky manual adjustments.
- Pulse Monitoring Pads. The pulse monitoring pads on the recumbent arms help track your heart rate without the need to lean forward to reach the handle grips.
- Easy-to-Read Metrics. The Sunny Health & Fitness Essential Recumbent Exercise Bike features a simple digital monitor that helps to track key health and workout metrics.
- Extra Large Seat. The extra wide seat and backrest allows larger Canadians to remain comfortable throughout their workouts.
Our Expert’s Take
“Canadians will love the extra large seat that can easily be adjusted, making for an incredibly comfortable recumbent bike experience.”
Comparing the Best Recumbent Bikes for Canadians
| Category | Bike | Resistance | Tension Levels | Max Weight | Display |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike | Magnetic | 25 | 136kg (300lbs) | Backlit LCD |
| Best Folding | XTERRA FB350 Folding Exercise Bike | Manual | 8 | 102kg (225lbs) | Small LCD Window |
| Best Smartphone App | Merach Recumbent Exercise Bike | Magnetic | 8 | 136kg (300lbs) | LCD Monitor |
| Best 2 in 1 | Lanos Portable 2 in 1 Exercise Bike | Magnetic | 10 | 150kg (330lbs) | LCD Computer |
| Best for Taller Users | Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Bike | Magnetic | 8 | 136kg (300lbs) | LCD Computer |
| Best Seat Adjustment | Sunny Health & Fitness Essential Recumbent Exercise Bike | Magnetic | 8 | 136kg (300lbs) | Digital Monitor |
How We Selected These Recumbent Bikes in Canada
For years, we’ve tried to bring you the best Canadian products possible. We’ve recommended household appliances, sleep products, and more to improve your life. All our recommendations come from a combination of expert opinions and our own analysis and evaluations.
When we found the best recumbent bikes in Canada, we looked at the following parameters.
- Resistance Type and Levels. Resistance and help you challenge yourself, and a range of tension levels can help you improve and push yourself toward better fitness. We’ve included machines with some of the best resistance levels we could find.
- Display. The display can track important metrics that help you meet your fitness goals. From LCD displays to HD touchscreens, we’ve included a wider range of options for you.
- Pulse Monitoring. As you exercise, it’s important to monitor your pulse. Maintaining your target pulse is important, and a recumbent bike that monitors your heart rate is essential. We’ve included many bikes that monitor your heart rate.
- Size. The size of your recumbent bike can make a difference, especially if you are tall, short, or have a small home gym. We’ve included a range of sizes to accommodate everyone.
Benefits of Using a Recumbent Bike in Canada
Among stationary exercise bikes, recumbent bikes are best for those who are trying to avoid strain. These bikes work a few different muscle groups, including your glutes, calves, and thighs. The wider seat allows a more comfortable, natural position with the pedals in front of you.
Pedalling on a recumbent bike doesn’t put as much strain on your joints. It’s great for those who suffer from arthritis, as well as those with balance issues. As a result, recumbent bikes are recommended for senior citizens and those recovering from injuries.
Recumbent bikes still offer a great cardio workout, however. They’re great for an easy workout that doesn’t require much effort, balance, or strain. The reclined seat is better for bad backs, too.
How to Choose a Recumbent Bike for Canadians
Choosing the right recumbent bike for you can be tricky. There are so many different features and options, it can be difficult to find the best recumbent bike in Canada for you. The following features can options can give you an idea of what you should look for as you shop for a recumbent bike.
Resistance Type
While most recumbent bikes have resistance, the type of resistance can make all the difference. All the bikes featured on our list use magnetic resistance. Here’s how that compares to other popular options you may find while shopping.
- Magnetic resistance uses magnets on the flywheel to pull on the wheel, creating more resistance as the magnet moves closer to the wheel. This resistance doesn’t drag, as there’s no direct contact between the magnets and the wheel. It’s a smoother, low-maintenance option for those who just want to get some biking done.
- Fan-based resistance uses the speed of your pedalling to increase resistance. This is not ideal for those who want to slowly ramp up the tension and train at each level, but it does provide a quieter experience than other options. The faster you pedal, the more resistance you feel.
- Brake resistance uses calliper brakes to apply friction to the wheels, providing resistance based on how much you apply the brake. This inexpensive resistance option gives you less control over your tension level than magnetic options and may drag due to the direct contact required.
Resistance can make your biking experience simple and user-friendly, but it can also make it more difficult. Choose the resistance type that gives you the best options for tension control.
Tension Levels
Tension levels allow you to change how difficult it is to pedal your bike. If you want to improve your fitness levels and challenge yourself, you should choose a recumbent bike that features multiple tension levels. As you increase the tension level, the pedals become more difficult to pedal. You can increase the tension as you go to ensure that your workout continues to be effective.
More tension levels are always better. If you want to keep the bike for a long time, even after your fitness levels and endurance improve, you should choose one with 10 or more tension levels.
Display
A recumbent bike’s display can tell you a great deal about your workouts. Many displays, regardless of the type, will track important metrics like distance, time, and calories. The display is also where you can find the pulse tracking information you want if the bike helps monitor your pulse. There are a few different types of displays, ranging from small LCD screens to large HD touchscreens.
Of course, you should choose a display that helps you meet your goals. If you want to track your statistics over time, consider choosing a recumbent bike with a touchscreen or more advanced console. Otherwise, an LCD screen that gives you your session stats can be great. Record your stats yourself and see the change over time.
Keep in mind that most recumbent bikes, like other exercise machines, have a place to put your tablet or phone. While the HD touchscreen models might allow you to stream your favourite workout programs or training sessions, you might be able to do the same with a Bluetooth connection to your own devices.
Programs and Connectivity
Bikes with Bluetooth capabilities may be able to connect to fitness apps on your tablet or phone. The compatible apps are different for each machine. Still, with a connection, you can access fitness programs, and on-demand training sessions, and track your stats over time. Some apps (usual options with yearly memberships) even give you access to live training sessions.
Depending on the type of recumbent bike you want and how dedicated you are to your fitness journey, a bike that uses connectivity and programming options might be great for you.
Pulse Monitoring
Monitoring your heart rate is an important part of any exercise. Each person has a target heart rate that is based on their age and resting heart rate, usually between 80 and 150 beats per minute. Keep in mind that your target heart rate might be different due to several factors.
You should aim for your target heart rate while exercising. The longer that your heart rate stays in your target range, the more effective your workout will be. You’ll burn more calories and strengthen your heart as a result. Because this target heart rate range is so important, many exercise machines track your pulse while you exercise.
If the intensity of your heart rate is important to you, you should choose a recumbent bike that keeps track of your heart rate. This will help you find the most intense part of your workout and maximize the benefits for your body and your heart.
Size and Dimensions
How much room do you have for your recumbent bike? If you don’t have much room at home, a smaller recumbent bike is more suitable. Consider choosing a folding bike, which is usually much smaller while offering the same recumbent benefits.
The size and dimensions of the bike are extremely important to consider as you shop. Choose a bike that is small enough to fit comfortably into your space, but large enough so there is enough room for you to recline. Consider your height as well. Though most bikes are adjustable, you’ll still need plenty of room if you have longer legs.
Seat
One of the best parts of a recumbent bike is the seat. A good seat should be wide and have plenty of cushions. While upright stationary bikes often have standard bicycle-style seats, recumbent bikes were made to be more comfortable.
Extra padding can help prevent strain on your back and hips. Recumbent bikes should also have large backrests, with enough support to keep your lumbar and upper back straight while you pedal. Both parts should be adjustable and comfortable for most users.
The seat should be comfortable for users up to the bike’s weight limit, but everyone is built differently. Take a close look at the bike’s seat before you decide to purchase a bike. Some bikes advertise the dimensions of the seat separately, which is a good way to understand exactly how large it is.
Handlebars
Most recumbent bikes don’t have handlebars like an upright model. Their handlebars are located on either side of the seat, allowing you to brace yourself during your workout. Bikes that can convert to upright bikes might include more traditional handlebars as well.
You might want one type of handlebar or the other. If you want both, look for a bike that includes both options. The handlebar configuration can be an important part of your comfort while you use the recumbent bike.
Folding and Conversion
Many of the best recumbent bikes in Canada are 2-in-1 models. These models can fold and adjust, transforming from a recumbent bike to an upright bike and back again. These options are great for those who want to improve over time, including those who wish to improve their workouts as they recover. If you are using a recumbent bike because you are recovering from an injury, one that converts to an upright bike might serve you well.
These models often fold down for storage as well. This is extremely useful if you have a smaller home gym, or less space to work with. When your workout is over, you can fold the bike down and keep it out of the way. These models are also lightweight and easy to store, so you don’t have to worry about anything after your workout.
Weight Limit
Each bike has a maximum weight limit. Often, this is tied to the construction of the frame and the strength of the steel bars supporting the bike. You should do your best to observe this weight limit. If you choose to exceed it, you could cause injury to yourself or damage the machine.
Exceeding the maximum weight limit might also void the warranty on your recumbent bike. If the bike breaks during normal use, you won’t be able to get a refund or replacement from the company.
You should choose a recumbent bike with a weight limit that exceeds the weight of any user. This is the safest option. Most folding bikes have a weight limit of about 250 lbs (113.4kg), while recumbent bikes that don’t fold for storage have a standard limit of about 300 lbs (136kg). There are, of course, bikes that are made for heavier Canadians. Choose one that best reflects the weight of anyone who will use the recumbent bike.
Adjustability
Of course, Canadians of different heights will need bikes of different sizes. To avoid this (and to make their bikes more universally appealing), most companies use adjustable components to make bikes better for most users. The handlebars, pedals, and seat should be adjustable to different heights. The distance between the seat and the pedals should be adjustable as well, even if it’s only a slide along the bottom of the bike.
Choosing an adjustable recumbent bike is incredibly important if you are taller than average or shorter than average. It’s also important if more than one user will be using the bike regularly. You might want to choose an adjustable bike if you are concerned about comfort, too.
All adjustable bikes will have a limit for adjustment. Make sure to keep an eye out for adjustment limits, especially if you are very short or very tall. You may not be able to use certain bikes if they don’t adjust like this, particularly if you are shorter or taller than average.
Frequently Asked Questions
A recumbent bike is a type of stationary bike that allows users to sit down more and pedal in front of them. A traditional stationary bike is designed to be more upright and features pedals below them. Those needing deeper back support or who struggle in an upright position for longer periods of time will benefit more from a recumbent bike.
Despite their reclined position, recumbent bikes offer a great cardio workout. Recumbent bikes work your glutes, thighs, and calves while saving your back and knees from strain. Whether you want to focus more on high-intensity pacing or go slower with more resistance, you’ll get a great workout with a recumbent bike.
Stationary cycling of any kind, including using a recumbent bike, can help improve strength better than walking alone. The ability to change the resistance of the pedals can help you continue to build strength over time, too. Using a recumbent bike in place of walking can also be very helpful during inclement weather when you don’t want to go outside.
Recumbent bikes do a great job of working all lower body muscle groups and put less pressure on joints than many other types of exercise. Those who enjoy biking but often feel pain in an upright position will deeply benefit from using a recumbent bike. Canadians who work from home will like the ability to be able to get a quick workout in between meetings, which is harder to do when going to the gym.
Weight limits vary from bike to bike. Typically, the weight limit is between 102 kg and 181 kg. Those in that weight range should look at the specific limit for a bike before purchasing it to ensure it will be able to support them safely. Regardless of your weight, always place your recumbent bike on a stable surface for the best balance and support.
Unlike upright stationary bikes, recumbent bikes do take up more space, similar to that of a treadmill. Canadians with smaller homes may worry that a recumbent bike won’t be able to fit in their home gym, bedroom or office space. Luckily, there are some compact options on the market, including ones that fold up when not in use. No matter your space availability, there is a recumbent bike that will work perfectly for you.
