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With a dizzying array of options available, it can be tough to sniff out the best exercise bike for seniors. Luckily, the team at Garage Gym Reviews has done the heavy lifting for you so you can ride with confidence in your home gym.
Whether you’re looking for a recumbent, upright, or folding exercise bike, we have you covered with our five favorite picks. We’ve analyzed everything from the comfort level of the seat to the user experience (and everything in between). It was important to us to find bikes that have the features seniors may want––comfortable seats, easy to get on and off, and uncomplicated displays.
Our expert product testers have researched and had our hands on tons of the best exercise bikes on the market. This isn’t just our day job––the team at Garage Gym Reviews is obsessed with fitness and has a wealth of knowledge and expertise. We’re certified personal trainers, nutrition coaches, and CrossFit L1 coaches, and we know good equipment when we test it. We rate each product from 1 to 5 based on factors such as:
- Durability: Does it feel stable while in use?
- Footprint and portability: How much space does it take up and is it easy to move?
- Adjustability: Can you move the seat and handlebars to find a comfortable riding position?
- Value: Is it worth the price?
5 Best Exercise Bikes for Seniors
- Best Overall Exercise Bike for Seniors: NordicTrack R35
- Best Exercise Bike for Seniors With Programming: Peloton Bike
- Best Folding Exercise Bike for Seniors: LEIKE X Bike Ultra-Quiet Folding Exercise Bike
- Best Budget Exercise Bike for Seniors: Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike
- Best Exercise Bike for Seniors with Back Problems: Sunny Health & Fitness Essential Recumbent Exercise Bike
Best Overall Exercise Bike for Seniors: NordicTrack R35
Good for: Older adults who need a comfortable bike with an easy-to-read display
Best Overall
NordicTrack Commercial R35 Exercise Bike
Product Highlights
- Easy-glide horizontal seat adjustment
- Oversized lumbar support
- Max user weight of 350 lbs
- 14” HD smart touchscreen display
- Bluetooth audio capabilities
- 26 levels of digital resistance
- Free 30-day iFIT family membership
- Automatic trainer control settings
Pros & Cons
Pros
- High weight capacity
- Interactive screen
- 2 digitally amplified speakers with Bluetooth capabilities
- Ergonomic pedals and lumbar support
- Quiet and smooth ride
Cons
- Large footprint
- Not easily transported
- No pre-programmed workout options
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a recumbent bike that offers immersive training, NordicTrack’s R35 is a high-quality one worth considering.
The NordicTrack R35 is the best exercise bike for seniors because it’s comfortable, and unlike many of the other best recumbent exercise bikes it’s actually challenging and comes with a touchscreen that allows you to access high-quality workout programming.
Recumbent bikes are perfect for seniors because the pedals are in front of the user, which puts less strain on your posterior chain and legs when compared to an upright stationary bike that has pedals below your posterior chain. They also have a backrest and padded seat, and most importantly have a step-through design that doesn’t require you trying to get up on the seat and risking injury. These factors also make it good for people with mobility issues or those recovering from a lower-body injury.
The R35 differs from other recumbent-style bikes because it has 26 levels of magnetic resistance, which is enough to challenge your cardiovascular system while still keeping you comfortable. “I did not feel any play in the frame or general structure, even when I cranked the resistance up,” says Caroline Lubinsky, a former collegiate soccer player who’s had ankle reconstruction surgery. “Plus, thanks to the silent magnetic resistance, the R35 is surprisingly quiet.”
It has a 350-pound weight capacity, but since some parts are made of plastic we’re docking a point off its durability score and rating it a 4 out of 5.
Touchscreens are not common on recumbent bikes, so it’s a big deal that you get a 14-inch one on the R35. You’ll get access to iFIT programming, which we rate a 5 out of 5 due to its motivating coaches, thousands of on-demand classes, and automatic trainer control that allows your trainer to control your speed mid-workout.
The R35, like other recumbent bikes, isn’t compact and is fairly difficult to move, so we’re rating it a 3.75 out of 5 for footprint and portability, but if you have the space for it it’s a great bike that will keep you golden during your golden years. Check out our NordicTrack Commercial R35 review for our full thoughts.
| Footprint | 68.22” L x 23.69” W x 53.42” H |
| Weight | 192 lbs |
| Warranty | 10-year frame, 2-year parts, 1-year labor |
| Professional assembly available | Depends on your ZIP code (check here) |
| Weight capacity | 350 lbs |
Best Exercise Bike for Seniors With Programming: Peloton Bike
Good for: Seniors who want a bike with built-in programming to help them reach their fitness goals
Best With Programming
Peloton Indoor Exercise Bike
Product Highlights
- 21.5" touchscreen for immersive training
- Live classes and on-demand cycling sessions
- Leaderboard-style competition
- Adjustable screen, seat, and handlebars
- 5-megapixel front-facing camera
- Bluetooth connectivity
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Immersive experience
- Access to thousands of classes, challenges, and a large variety of workout options
- Compact footprint
- Sleek design
- Financing options
- “Try before you buy” option
Cons
- Disappointing warranty
- Membership is required to use bike
- Expensive
- Shipping is not included
Bottom Line
One of the more expensive options for virtual biking, the Peloton Bike is designed to be an all-in-one fitness solution on a high-quality cardio machine. You’re paying not only for the bike, but the unique training experience it makes accessible from the comfort of your home.
With thousands of classes available, seniors are bound to find a Peloton Bike program that works for them. We’ve even read community forum posts of 70+ riders kicking the butts of people half their age in a regular class, so to answer your question there’s no age limit for the Peloton. Beyond that, Peloton also has non-bike workouts such as chair yoga and strength classes that can be viewed on the bike or your smartphone that can help with increasing bone density or balance. It gets a 5 out of 5 for dynamic programming.
We’ll be honest, the bike itself isn’t the most comfortable out there, though certified personal trainer and GGR Head of Content Nicole Davis points out it can be swapped out for a seat of your choosing. “If you’re new to consistent cycling, it may just take some time to get used to the hardness of the seat, so don’t give up too quickly,” she says in her Peloton Bike review.
On the bright side, it can be adjusted vertically and horizontally and has 100 resistance levels. The handlebars can only be adjusted vertically, which might be a pain for people with shorter arms so we’re rating the bike’s customizations a 4 out of 5.
One of the best parts of the Peloton assembly process is that you don’t have to lift a finger. A certified technician will put it together for you, though it’s up to you to connect it to your WiFi network.
Working with limited space? No problem. The Peloton has a 4-foot-by 2-foot footprint, though you’ll need a 8-foot-by-6-foot space to comfortably ride it, along with 8 feet of ceiling space. Although it weighs 135 pounds, it’s easy to move so we’ll give it a 4.5 out of 5 for footprint and portability.
| Footprint | 59” L X 53” H X 23” W |
| Weight | 135 lbs |
| Warranty | 5 years frame, 12 months touchscreen, components, pedals, and labor |
| Professional assembly available | Yes; free |
| Weight capacity | 297 lbs |
Best Folding Exercise Bike for Seniors: LEIKE X Bike Ultra-Quiet Folding Exercise Bike
Good for: Seniors who are tight on space and want to fold their bike after their home workout
Best Folding
LEIKE X Bike
Product Highlights
- Easily foldable
- Recumbent option
- Comfortable seat
- Media holder
- Basic LCD screen
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Super easy to fold, can fit behind a couch with ease
- Upright and recumbent options
- Comfortable enough to use for an hour plus
Cons
- Slightly shaky if you pedal really hard
- Have had to retighten screws occasionally (every few months)
- Minimal tech and convenience features
Bottom Line
A quiet and budget-friendly folding exercise bike that's perfect for apartment owners.
Garage Gym Reviews writer Anthony O’Reilly was given the LEIKE X Bike during quarantine by a friend, and it has been his trusty sidekick ever since. Anthony previously lived in a micro apartment in New York City, so he knows a thing or two about needing to save space wherever he can. This bike is foldable for easy storage, weighs under 40 pounds, and is 16 inches long and 26 inches in width. We give it a 5 out of 5 for footprint and portability.
Plus it’s under $200 on Amazon. Win-win.
RELATED: Budget Home Gym on Amazon
Anthony particularly likes that the LEIKE X Bike can be both an upright or recumbent bike, depending on what you prefer. Seniors will enjoy the cushioned seat back, which is similar to what you’d find on a recumbent bike. However, it can also be adjusted to be more over the handlebars, like a traditional upright bike.
I like that there are a variety of components on the LEIKE X Bike that can be adjusted to accommodate various needs. The seat itself has seven different available adjustments, the foot straps can be loosened or tightened, and there are 10 resistance levels, which can be changed with the flick of a dial.
However, there are a few downsides. The LEIKE X Bike has a weight capacity of 220 pounds, which is well below the industry standard of 300. Plus, Anthony reported that the bike will shake slightly at the highest resistance level, which is something to be aware of, but not the end of the world.
| Footprint | 26” L x 16” W x 47” H |
| Weight | 38.5 lbs |
| Warranty | 1-year |
| Professional assembly available | Yes; $89 |
| Weight capacity | 220 lbs |
Best Budget Exercise Bike for Seniors: Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike
Good for: Those who want a sturdy bike at a cheap price
Best Budget
Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike
Product Highlights
- Under $300
- 300-lb weight capacity
- Comfortable seat
- Dual handlebars
- Highly adjustable
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 300-lb weight capacity
- Transport wheels
- Dual handlebars
- Cushioned seat
- Under $300
- Adjustable components
Cons
- Batteries needed for display not included
- Lacks a bottle holder
- Short warranty
Bottom Line
This under $300 recumbent exercise bike may be a good choice for seniors, beginners, and anyone looking for a simple cardio machine.
With the cost of pretty much everything going up (thanks, inflation) it is more important than ever to feel like you’re getting a great deal on the things you purchase. Fitness equipment is no exception, which is why I recommend the Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike as the best budget exercise bike for seniors.
This recumbent bike is around $250, which is a great deal for a piece of cardio equipment. According to reviews, the Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike has an intuitive LCD display with large, colorful buttons. This makes it an ideal choice for seniors with eyesight issues, since all the options are easy to see.
The Marcy Bike also features a wide, comfortable seat that is adjustable to accommodate a variety of heights. Customers mentioned this machine was easy to assemble (it appeared it took people about an hour) and move around. Although this recumbent bike weighs just over 70 pounds, the handy transport wheels make it reasonable to move for one able-bodied person.
I don’t have too many complaints about this bike, especially for the price. However, I wish Marcy had included a cup holder for water and the needed AA batteries for the display. In the grand scheme of things, these are minor issues that don’t take away from the excellence of this budget bike.
| Footprint | 56” L x 25” W x 44” H |
| Weight | 71 lbs |
| Warranty | 2-year limited warranty |
| Professional assembly available | Yes; $59.99 |
| Weight capacity | 300 lbs |
Best Exercise Bike for Seniors with Back Problems: Sunny Health & Fitness Essential Recumbent Exercise Bike
Good for: Those who need lumbar support on their recumbent stationary bike
Best for Back Problems
Sunny Health And Fitness Essential Recumbent Exercise Bike
Product Highlights
- Just under $300
- Easily adjust the seat, foot pedals, and resistance levels
- Easy to mount and dismount
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Under $300
- User weight capacity of 300 lbs
- Adjustable seat
- 8 levels of resistance
- Pulse sensors
- Transport wheels
Cons
- Second set of handlebars are short
- Lacks a bottle holder
- No device holder
Bottom Line
For under $300, the Sunny Health and Fitness Essential Recumbent Exercise Bike is an excellent option for beginners on a budget.
For seniors with back issues, exercise can seem like a real challenge. It might be easy to simply throw up your hands and avoid it altogether, but studies show1 that getting regular exercise is crucial to your health, especially as you age. The Sunny Health & Fitness Essential Recumbent Exercise Bike is an excellent option for those who need to get or stay active but want a little extra support.
This recumbent exercise bike features a generously-sized seat with stellar back support and cushioning. Plus, according to reviews, it is easy to mount and dismount since the pedals of the bike aren’t in your way when you sit. I also like the pulse grips on either side of the seat, as they appear convenient for holding onto when pedaling. I do wish the front handlebars were a bit longer, but most people won’t use those much anyway.
Although the digital monitor is simple, it displays all the metrics you’d want to view while exercising, like time elapsed, calories burned, pulse, and distance traveled. You’ll be able to switch between the stats by pressing the large ‘mode’ button on the display.
For the price, it should come as no surprise that the Sunny Health & Fitness Recumbent Bike doesn’t have any extras. You won’t find a water bottle holder or device stand on this cardio machine. I understand that compromises have to be made in order to keep the cost low, but I do wish there was at least one water bottle holder.
| Footprint | 46” L x 24.5” W x 38” H |
| Weight | 58.7 lbs |
| Warranty | 3-year frame, 180 days other parts |
| Professional assembly available | Yes; $89 |
| Weight capacity | 300 lbs |
Other Exercise Bike Options
Still not finding what you’re looking for? Check out our bike roundups to find something that suits your low-impact workout needs:
- The Best Budget Exercise Bikes
- The Best Air Bike
- The Best Folding Exercise Bike
- Best Peloton Alternatives
- Best Exercise Bikes
How We Picked and Tested
- Type of exercise bike: Is the bike recumbent, foldable, or upright?
- Price: How expensive is the bike? How does it compare to others in the same price range?
- Display: Is the display simple to read and see? Is it LCD, LED, or a touchscreen?
- Extras: Is there a water bottle or device holder? Does it have a cooling fan?
- Ease of use: Is the bike easy to use? Do the buttons make sense?
- Programming: Are there preset programs? Can interactive programming be purchased to use in tandem with the bike?
- Seat: Is the seat cushioned? Is there enough support?
- Adjustability: Are any of the components adjustable?
- Weight capacity: What is the max user weight, and how does this compare to the industry standard?
- Machine weight: How heavy is the machine? Can it be moved easily? Are there transport wheels?
- Durability: How heavy-duty is the bike?
- Footprint: How large is the bike? Can it be folded or stored easily? Will it fit in a compact space?
- Professional assembly: Is there an option for professional assembly? If not, how simple is the bike to assemble for one person? Would you need additional hands?
- Warranty: What is covered under warranty on this bike, and for how many years? How does this compare to the industry standard?
RELATED: How to Choose an Exercise Bike
Benefits of Exercise Bikes for Seniors
Need a little extra convincing that an exercise bike is the best cardio choice for you? Certified personal trainer and GGR writer/editor Amanda Capritto is here to tell you the benefits seniors could reap with frequent bike use.
RELATED: Stationary Bike Benefits
“Stationary bikes can help anyone reach their fitness goals, but they’re a particularly great investment for seniors,” Amanda explains. “Older adults often need to minimize joint impact due to arthritis or other medical conditions, and exercise bikes allow for physical activity of all intensities without the skeletal impact.”
RELATED: How Improving Your Mobility Can Help You Get Stronger
“Recumbent exercise bikes can even further reduce joint discomfort thanks to the reclined position that alleviates pressure from the hips, knees, and lower back. Also, higher-end exercise bikes with interactive programming can be great for seniors who are just starting or reigniting an exercise habit. Instructor-led workouts are engaging and can help keep you safe,” Amanda says.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in Exercise Bikes for Seniors
Still not sure what to look for? Check out the five most important attributes your exercise bike should have if you’re a senior:
Ease of Use
You don’t want to get a cardio machine that has way too much going on. Complicated buttons and confusing features can make for a frustrating experience. I recommend making sure all the features are simple to use and more importantly, make sense to you.
Comfortable Seat
Getting a comfortable seat on your exercise machine should be a priority. Most recumbent bikes have a seat back and extra cushioning to make your ride more comfortable. However, if you get an upright bike with a hard seat, you can always purchase a cushioned seat cover to modify your machine.
Durable
The last thing you need is to purchase an exercise bike that breaks within a month. Choosing a bike with a sturdy frame, high weight capacity, and excellent warranty are the keys to a long-lasting cardio machine.
Simple to Get On and Off
For seniors with balance issues, choosing a bike that is easy to get on and off is crucial. Recumbent bikes are generally lower to the ground, and therefore, easier to mount and dismount. If you struggle with tasks like getting into your car or off the couch, a recumbent bike may be your best bet.
Easy-to-Read Display
Who the heck wants to squint at a screen they can’t read while trying to exercise? Certainly not me! Choosing an exercise bike with a display that is easy-to-read is a must for people with less-than-wonderful eyesight.
Best Exercise Bikes for Seniors FAQs
Which type of exercise bike is best for seniors?
This truly depends on the senior in question. If the prospective senior has back injuries, general instability, or core weakness, a recumbent bike is the best choice. The slightly reclined position of a recumbent bike coupled with a backrest will make this the best bet for most seniors.
However, other seniors have excellent balance, are injury-free, and would prefer a more traditional stationary bike experience. In that case, an upright bike may suit their lifestyle best.
How long should a 70-year-old ride an exercise bike?
Seniors should follow the same physical activity guidelines as younger adults, which is 150 minutes per week of moderate physical activity. This equates to about 30 minutes of cardio exercise five days a week.
RELATED: Best Low-Impact Exercises
What is the easiest bike to ride for seniors?
The easiest bike for seniors to ride is a recumbent bike. It puts less stress on their lower-body muscles by placing their legs in front of their body, as opposed to underneath their body as on an upright bike.
What is the most comfortable bike for seniors?
A recumbent bike is generally the most comfortable bike for seniors because it has a full backrest and a padded seat. It places their legs in front of them so there’s less strain on their lower-body muscles.
References
- Langhammer B, Bergland A, Rydwik E. The Importance of Physical Activity Exercise among Older People. Biomed Res Int. 2018 Dec 5;2018:7856823. doi: 10.1155/2018/7856823. PMID: 30627571; PMCID: PMC6304477.
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