The phrase “best exercise bikes” probably makes you think of Peloton, NordicTrack, Schwinn, or other brands with bikes well above the $1,000 price point. But what if you’re just looking for a straightforward set of wheels, or don’t have the financial flexibility for a model with all the bells and whistles?
Fortunately, you don’t need to spend thousands of dollars to get an effective cardio workout at home. Our team of experts has tested plenty of budget home gym equipment, including some great bang-for-your-buck exercise bikes. So, if you’re ready to pedal away without putting a major dent in your wallet, check out our top picks.
GGR Gold Pick — Best Budget Exercise Bike
Earning a strong overall score of 4 out of 5, the MERACH S36 Magnetic Resistance Bike is our choice for the best overall budget exercise bike thanks to its ultra-quiet magnetic resistance system, ergonomic design, and sturdy construction.
The 8 Best Budget Exercise Bikes
- Best Overall Budget Exercise Bike – MERACH S36 Magnetic Resistance Bike
- Best Compact Budget Exercise Bike – Echelon Connect EX-5
- Best Budget Air Bike – Bells of Steel Residential Air Bike with Wind Guard
- Best Budget Cycling Bike – YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike
- Best Budget Folding Exercise Bike – Marcy Fitness Upright Foldable Exercise Bike
- Best Budget Recumbent Exercise Bike – YOSUDA Recumbent Exercise Bike
- Best Budget Desk Bike – DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser
- Best Budget Bike Under $500 – Sunny Health & Fitness Synergy Magnetic Bike
Current Top Deals
- Echelon Connect EX-5 – Save $600 + free delivery
- Bells of Steel Residential Air Bike with Wind Guard – Save 25% off the MSRP
How We Selected the Best Budget Exercise Bikes
Budget-friendly doesn’t mean something has to be cheaply made or lacking necessary features for an effective workout. We assess the price, build quality, and functionality to determine if a bike offers good bang for your buck, awarding a 3 out of 5 if it provides solid value—though it might not be the best deal out there.

Is it easy to change the resistance settings mid-ride? Can you adjust the seat and handlebars to accommodate users of different heights and body types? To earn a 3 out of 5, a bike must have at least 12 resistance levels with variable settings, along with an adjustable seat and handlebars.

We test built-in workout programs, resistance smoothness, and how well the bike responds to cadence changes or simulated terrain. For smart bikes, we assess how engaging and adaptive the digital training experience feels, as well. Bikes with at least a few built-in workouts meet our standard for a 3-out-of-5 rating.

We developed a comprehensive exercise bike testing methodology that examines everything from a machine’s footprint and programming options to its adjustability and durability. Our expert product testers put each bike through multiple cycling workouts to provide accurate ratings based on a 1-5 scoring scale.

The Garage Gym Reviews team includes certified personal trainers, Olympic-level athletes, and cardio enthusiasts who have tested more than 50 exercise bikes ranging from budget-friendly models to high-end options like the NordicTrack X24. In 2025, we helped more than 3,100 people find the right set of wheels for their cycling needs, and we’re here to assist you, too.

Best Overall Budget Exercise Bike: MERACH S36 Magnetic Exercise Bike
Updated by: Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CNC
For under $400, the MERACH S36 is a steal for those wanting a stable, quiet exercise bike without breaking the bank.
Best Compact Budget Exercise Bike: Echelon Connect EX-5
Updated by: Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CNC
This is a high-quality exercise bike with plenty of tech features, though it lacks a built-in monitor.
What our tester says:
“The grip is great with a nice textured finish, and the different positions you can place your hands provide for an enjoyable ride.”
Best Budget Air Bike: Bells of Steel Residential Air Bike
Updated by: Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CNC
Best Budget Cycling Bike: YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike
Updated by: Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CNC
This is a budget-friendly exercise bike that provides a good ride, but lacks long-term durability.
What our tester says:
“I liked riding the YOSUDA bike and could see how many people out there would enjoy it. But it’s certainly one of those pieces of fitness equipment where you get what you pay for.”
Best Budget Folding Exercise Bike: Marcy Fitness Upright Foldable Exercise Bike
Updated by: Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CNC
This is a sturdy and affordable exercise bike that’s a great fit for home gyms of any sizes.
What our tester says:
“I was pleasantly surprised using the Marcy bike. It’s become the bike I use in warmups and cool-downs.”
Best Budget Recumbent Exercise Bike: YOSUDA Recumbent Exercise Bike
Updated by: Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CNC
The YOSUDA Recumbent Bike is a lightweight and affordable recumbent bike that’s perfect for seniors or those with lower-body injuries who are trying to remain active.
Best Budget Desk Bike: DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Exercise Bike And Pedal Exerciser
Updated by: Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CNC
Best Budget Bike Under $500: Sunny Health and Fitness Synergy Magnetic
Updated by: Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CNC
Our Testers
Other Budget Exercise Bikes We Researched and Tested
We’re constantly testing home fitness machines to find the best affordable exercise bikes, but not every bike we test is deserving of a place on our list. Here are a few that fell just short of the mark.
- Schwinn IC4: We like this bike as an affordable home gym profile but prefer the likes of the MERACH S36 and Echelon Connect EX-5 for more regular training. Read our full Schwinn IC4 review for more details.
- Titan Fan Bike: This beefy Titan Fitness Fan Bike can support athletes up to 330 pounds and features rugged front transport wheels for easier transport. However, we’ve found similar air bikes at a lower price point.
- XTERRA Fitness FB150 Folding Bike: This folding exercise bike costs around $100, but our testers were simply underwhelmed with its performance and found that even getting it out of the box was a challenge.
How We Picked and Tested The Best Budget Exercise Bikes
The GGR team has plenty of experience testing all sorts of equipment, including exercise bikes. With each product we test, we carefully use it for a variety of workouts, paying close attention to items like durability, stability, ergonomics, footprint and portability, and more.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of how we evaluate each category based on our in-depth testing methodology.
Footprint and Portability
To earn a 3 out of 5, one or two people should be able to easily move the bike around. We give bonus points for built-in transport wheels, folding mechanisms, or other design elements that help reduce its footprint and enhance portability.
Delivery and Setup
To earn a 3 out of 5 in this category, a bike must take no more than 1.5 hours to assemble. Additional points are awarded for free shipping, multiple delivery options, and a setup process that is especially quick and hassle-free.
Durability
To earn at least a 3 out of 5, the bike has little to no shifting during your workout, even at higher speeds. It offers a weight capacity of at least 275 pounds, and the flywheel is heavy enough to support a smooth, efficient ride. While we prefer a flywheel that weighs at least 30 pounds, we understand that it may be closer to 20 pounds on a budget bike.
Customizations
Changing the resistance can ramp up the intensity of your workout. To earn a 3 in this category, the bike should feature at least 12 levels of adjustable resistance. We’ll give a 4 or 5 out of 5 if the bike offers incline or decline settings, a more robust resistance range, or if you can adjust these settings digitally (saving you time and elbow grease).
Adjustability and Ergonomics
How comfortable the bike feels makes a major difference in whether you’ll use it consistently or leave it in the corner to collect dust. To earn a 3 out of 5, the bike should feature a padded seat that adjusts vertically and handlebars that are toggleable, as well. We give higher scores if you can adjust either element horizontally or swap out the pedals for different ones.
Conveniences
Budget bikes typically don’t include all the premium features found on higher-end models, but we expect at least a water bottle holder, media shelf, and safety stop button. To earn a 3 out of 5, a bike should include these basic conveniences, while higher scores are reserved for models with extras like a cooling fan, multiple bottle holders, dumbbell storage, or noise-reducing features such as silent magnetic resistance.
Tech Capabilities
Budget bikes shouldn’t be expected to have large HD touchscreens, but they should include a console that tracks basic metrics like time, distance, and resistance level. To earn a 3 out of 5, a bike must offer a console and some form of heart rate monitoring, while higher scores go to models with advanced features such as Bluetooth connectivity, USB charging, smart programming, or Wi-Fi-enabled displays.
Value
Value should be judged relative to price, as budget bikes often trade advanced tech and programming for affordability. A 3 out of 5 indicates the bike is fairly priced compared to similar models, while higher scores are reserved for bikes that deliver exceptional performance, features, and overall value for the cost.
RELATED: Best Budget Home Gym Setups
Dynamic Programming
Workout programming can enhance the riding experience through built-in workouts, live and on-demand classes, and even off-bike training options like strength, yoga, or Pilates. A 3 out of 5 requires at least a few integrated workouts, while higher scores are reserved for bikes that offer interactive classes, personalized training, or more robust programming features.
RELATED: Best Air Bike Workouts
Customer Experience
Customer support, warranty coverage, and return policies help determine whether a bike is a worthwhile long-term investment. A 3-out-of-5 rating requires at least a 30-day return policy and a financing option, while higher scores go to manufacturers that offer stronger warranty protection and responsive customer service.
Customer Reviews
We care about what customers have to say about their experience with a particular exercise bike. In addition to the brand’s website, we check Amazon and other retailers (when appropriate) to see the average rating. We take note of both common critiques and points of praise to get a full grasp of a customer’s journey.
Benefits of Budget Exercise Bikes
Just because you aren’t getting a top-of-the-line bike doesn’t mean you can’t reap some valuable rewards. Here are a few benefits to making a lower-cost purchase when you’re looking to make cycling a central part of your fitness routine.

Save Money
This sounds obvious, but one of the biggest benefits is that you’re not spending as much money as you would on a machine like the Peloton Cross Training Bike or the fully loaded NordicTrack X24 Bike. Once again, you’re sacrificing some quality by picking a cheaper bike, but unless you’re an avid cyclist, you’ll probably get what you need from one of our picks.
RELATED: Best Budget Mountain Bikes
Footprint-Friendly
While the financial savings can be great, the footprint savings can also be quite beneficial.
“For those with limited space at home, like garage gym owners with a large equipment selection or people living in smaller apartments, this can be a great way to upgrade your home gym without taking up too much floor space,” explains GGR Senior Staff Writer Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC. “A lighter frame can also be easier to move around, so if you need to store your bike between uses, a smaller bike is a good choice.”
Promotes Cardiovascular Fitness
Adults should be getting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of high-intensity cardio per week, according to the Centers For Disease Prevention And Control1. These exercise bikes can be an easy way to meet that threshold and burn calories, which can support your weight loss goals.
Of course, cardio is only one component of an effective body recomposition plan.
“It is beneficial to combine cardiovascular and strength training when trying to lose weight and maintain muscle,” explains GGR expert contributor Christopher Mohr, PhD, RD. “Cardio exercises like running, cycling, or swimming are excellent for improving cardiovascular health, while strength training is great for building muscle mass, which is often called the organ of longevity.”
Research2 also shows that riding an exercise bike may also contribute to lower cholesterol and positive improvements in other metabolic functions.
RELATED: Best Cardiovascular Exercises
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Budget Exercise Bike
If you’ve gotten this far and still aren’t sure which to choose, here are a few tips to help you pick the best budget indoor bike.

Price
Obviously, the first thing you’ll want to find out is how much money you have to spend on an exercise bike. As we’ve demonstrated, you can find plenty of the best cheap stationary bikes for under $500, with some even lower than $300.
In general, we wouldn’t recommend spending any less than $150, as you’ll begin to sacrifice too much quality and durability at that point. Thankfully, many of our picks are also available on Amazon, which can often mean free shipping (if you’re a Prime member).
Construction and Durability
Manufacturers will bring down the cost of an exercise bike by using cheaper materials, such as plastic rather than more durable and expensive options like 11-gauge steel. Do your best to find out what each budget exercise bike is made of, how durable that material is, if it reacts to any climate conditions, and how to take care of it.
“One of the biggest concerns with budget-friendly bikes is the durability, as some, but certainly not all, can feel a little flimsy or wobbly in use,” explains GGR Senior Staff Writer Matt Dustin, CSCS, PN1-NC. “It’s important to make sure that the bike you choose feels stable, and has a high enough weight capacity to accommodate anyone who will be using this in your home.”
Also, no matter how much you maintain it, a budget exercise bike will likely begin to deteriorate at some point because the materials aren’t meant to last. It may take a few months or even a few years, but there will come a time when something will pop up unexpectedly. However, this can also happen with more expensive exercise bikes, especially if you don’t follow proper maintenance protocols.
“We carefully test the construction and durability during our bike testing, but if you’re not able to try yourself before purchasing, a high weight capacity (ideally, above 300 pounds) is a good indicator that the bike is well-made,” Matt says.
Resistance
There are two common types of resistance systems on budget exercise bikes: friction and magnetic. Friction is when pads come in contact with the flywheel to provide your desired resistance level. Because of this, it produces a whooshing sound with some bikes being louder than others. It also means the pads will wear down over time and will need to be replaced.
Magnetic resistance is generated by a metal disk spinning through a magnetic field, and it’s much quieter than friction resistance. That said, it’s also much more expensive to build and, therefore, makes the bike more expensive.
Drive System
The drive system is what helps propel your exercise bike’s flywheel, and it’s either going to be a belt or chain drive system. A belt drivetrain is typically lower maintenance, and can provide a smoother ride.
A chain drivetrain, on the other hand, might be a better pick if you’re looking to simulate a road bike, but you’ll also have to clean and maintain the chain regularly to ensure it continues to perform.
RELATED: How to Choose an Exercise Bike
Adjustability
This goes for non-budget exercise bikes, as well, but make sure you can fit atop the bike comfortably. To find out if a bike can work for you, you’ll want to look for what’s known as an inseam. This is the length from your groin’s underside to the bottom of your ankle. If that length is in range with what’s listed on the bike, you’re most likely good to go.
Also, assess how easily you can adjust the seat and handlebars. After all, if you can’t find a comfortable position for your body type, chances are that the bike will become an albatross in the corner of your apartment or home gym.
Tech Features
Many budget-oriented exercise bikes won’t come with a touchscreen, and some may even lack Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity. You’re most likely going to get a basic LCD display on just about any budget exercise bike, and only a few will be able to connect to a fitness app (such as iFIT or Zwift) or a heart rate monitor.
That’s not to say you can’t find one with these capabilities—hence the Freebeat Boom currently sitting in our top spot—but it’s important to temper your tech expectations.
FAQs About the Best Budget Exercise Bikes
What is a good inexpensive stationary bike?
A good, inexpensive stationary bike offers adjustable resistance, a sturdy frame, and a comfortable seat. Several brands produce budget-friendly models, including Freebeat, YOSUDA, and Sunny Health & Fitness.
Are cheap exercise bikes worth it?
Yes, cheap exercise bikes can be worth it for beginners or casual users who aren’t concerned about having all the features you find on top-end models. Key factors to check for include the weight capacity, resistance range, and footprint.
Where can I buy a cheap exercise bike?
You can find affordable exercise bikes at retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Target, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and directly from fitness equipment brands, especially during holiday sales and promotional periods.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, February 5). Physical activity guidelines for adults. https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-basics/guidelines/adults.html
- Ratajczak, Marzena et al. “Effects of an Indoor Cycling Program on Cardiometabolic Factors in Women with Obesity vs. Normal Body Weight.” International journal of environmental research and public health vol. 17,23 8718. 24 Nov. 2020, doi:10.3390/ijerph17238718















































