Here at Garage Gym Reviews, we’re not just enthusiastic about traditional home gym equipment like treadmills, squat racks, and dumbbells—we’re also fans of fitness equipment that gets you moving when you’d otherwise be sedentary.
During an eight-hour work day, it can be hard to get your steps in or leave your desk to get exercise, which is a big risk factor for adverse health effects1. That’s where our expert product testers come in: We’ve tested the best desk exercise equipment on the market so you can increase your blood flow and energy expenditure without skipping a beat at work.
In our DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Exercise Bike and Pedal Exerciser review, our tester covers the good and bad of this mini bike, along with details regarding who it’s a good fit for.
Our DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Exercise Bike And Pedal Exerciser Review, Summarized
One of the best mini exercise bikes, the DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Exercise Bike and Pedal Exerciser is an affordable, discrete, and portable way to exercise while you’re tied to your desk. It can also work as a recovery tool following an injury or surgery, or act as a gentle way to introduce movement to elderly folks.
How We Test Mini Exercise Bikes
Because under-desk bikes are compact and mechanically straightforward, ease of assembly is a major factor in our testing. To receive a baseline score of 3 out of 5, a model must include easy-to-follow instructions and be able to be assembled by one person in 40 minutes or less.
While mini exercise bikes don’t offer extensive customization, we still expect a basic level of adjustability. A score of 3 out of 5 requires adjustable pedal straps and at least three resistance settings to accommodate different users and effort levels.
Size and mobility are especially important for this category of equipment, as these machines are designed to be space-saving. A mini bike earns 3 points if it’s light enough to carry without effort and compact enough to store in a standard closet. Designs that include folding elements (such as collapsible pedals) or that use ultra-lightweight materials score higher.
When we evaluate the best exercise bikes, we go beyond a brief test ride. Each model is put through a comprehensive, hands-on review process that focuses on the factors most important to home gym owners, including comfort, ride quality, durability, and overall usability. Every bike is assessed using a standardized exercise bike testing methodology that allows us to make fair, data-backed comparisons between models.
We’ve tested all kinds of cardio equipment and we’re not newcomers to the idea of multitasking your cardiovascular health and day job. Our expert product testers are also a group of fitness professionals, including certified personal trainers, CrossFit Level 1 Trainers, nutrition coaches, and former college athletes. Our collective expertise helps provide the most relevant information to help you achieve your fitness goals.
What to Know Before You Buy
- Make sure your desk is at least 27 inches tall; otherwise, it may not work with this under-desk bike pedal exerciser.
- Measure the depth of your desk, as well. Although the DeskCycle 2 is short compared to many other options, it still measures 24 inches long.
- Be prepared to squat down and pick up your DeskCycle 2, because this mini bike does not have a handle to easily carry it from one room to the next.
- There are two versions of this desk pedal bike—a standard-height and an adjustable-height version. We tested the adjustable-height option, and for only $10 more, we recommend it.
- There are discrepancies regarding the product weight and user weight capacity on the Amazon listings. In some places, the product weight is listed at 23 pounds; in others, 24 pounds. Some listings state the weight capacity as 270 pounds; others as 350 or 500 pounds.
Is the DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Exercise Bike And Pedal Exerciser Worth It?
GGR Director of Content Nicole Davis, CPT, PN1-NC put the DeskCycle to the test in her home office. She mentions that although it’s not the same pedaling experience you will get from a full-size stationary bike, she appreciates that the DeskCycle 2 offers a weighted flywheel, as well as adjustable resistance.
The high-inertia magnetic flywheel is designed to keep the pedal strokes smooth and consistent, regardless of the resistance you choose. Nicole points out, too, that you can pedal both backwards and forwards with ease, noting no issues with the transition.
Still pondering? The following specifications can help you determine if this under-desk pedal exerciser is the right option for your home.
DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Exercise Bike And Pedal Exerciser: Key Features & Specs
| Price (Original MSRP) | $149.99 (standard height) $159.99 (adjustable height) |
| Footprint | 10.24” D x 24.02” W x 20.08” H |
| Product Weight | 23 lbs |
| Weight Capacity | 270 lbs |
| Resistance | 8 levels of magnetic resistance (max 39 lbs of resistance) |
| Display | LCD screen |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Using the DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Exercise Bike And Pedal Exerciser
After testing both a leisurely pace and the highest resistance setting, Nicole says the highest level is actually quite difficult (and she’s not afraid to admit it). This is pretty consistent with what customer reviews say, too. Many comments include mentions of more than enough resistance levels to challenge the average person.
In addition to difficult resistance levels, Nicole also enjoys the fact that this mini bike is whisper-quiet and can easily be used during work calls without anyone even noticing.
Another nice feature is the removable LCD display. You can detach the console from the front of the mini bike and place it on your desk with the included display stand. The display can track up to 166 hours of data (showing metrics like calories burned, time, distance, and RPM) before it rolls over and restarts.
An under-desk bike may not give you a full-body workout, but they’re a great way to increase your overall daily activity, especially if you prefer to sit versus work at a standing desk.
Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CF-L1, CNC, CSNC
DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Exercise Bike And Pedal Exerciser Rating
Value
The DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Exercise Bike and Pedal Exerciser is going to be a solid option for anyone seeking a home workout during the workday. Once you have the mini bike placed under your desk, the movement is similar to the pedaling motion of a recumbent bike. This means that rather than your feet situated directly under your hips like an upright or foldable bike, your feet will be out in front of you.
The DeskCycle features a weighted flywheel that provides up to 39 pounds of resistance, which is astonishing for such a small exercise machine, Nicole points out. “I was really surprised by this little bike. Its resistance goes higher than I expected, and I love that it’s virtually silent, so I can use it while on work calls and no one notices.”
You get all this for less than $160, which is excellent in comparison to other mini exercise bikes. As such, Nicole rates the value at 4 out of 5.
Assembly
Nicole reports that it took her all of 10 minutes to put the DeskCycle together. “It was simple, and instructions were easy to follow,” she says.
She ordered the DeskCycle from Amazon and had no trouble with the ordering process or the delivery. The one thing she did mention, though, was that the batteries that came with the machine for the small electronic display were dented. Otherwise, all the parts were in good shape and ready to assemble, earning the DeskCycle 2 a 5 out of 5 for this category.
Construction and Durability
Although the DeskCycle footprint is not as slim as expected, Nicole remains impressed with the overall construction of the mini exercise bike.
Nicole boasts that it “feels really stable during use,” rating the DeskCycle at 5 out of 5 for the category. She says there is no movement underfoot while she multitasks her cardio workouts and her desk work.
The 270-pound user weight capacity also impressed Nicole, along with the heavy magnetic flywheel that creates up to 39 pounds of resistance. Both of these attributes give the mini bike a super smooth ride and a locked-to-the-ground feel while in use.
RELATED: Best Folding Exercise Bikes
Adjustability and Ergonomics
For a simple cardio machine, the DeskCycle certainly aims for ease of use. Nicole likes that this under-desk cycle machine has an adjustable pedal height; you’ll have the option of setting the pedals to either 9 or 10 inches off the ground.
Nicole has experienced no issues with the height of her desk in relation to the mini bike pedal height, either. However, she also knows this is not the case for all users, especially taller people (Nicole is 5 feet, 3 inches tall, for reference).
The foot pedals are also adjustable with Velcro straps that can fit a wide range of shoe sizes, with the maximum circumference measuring 16 inches. Not only should this accommodate a variety of users, but Nicole especially likes that the pedals are flat and easy to use hands-free.
She has no problem slipping feet both in and out of the foot pedals without any help from her hands—making this a great option for seniors, anyone lacking mobility, or anyone using indoor cycling as a form of physical therapy for injury rehab.
RELATED: Best Exercise Bikes for Seniors
DeskCycle’s claim to fame is offering the lowest pedal height of all pedal exercisers, as well, with the option to adjust between 9 and 10 inches off the ground. Compared to other mini bikes we’ve tried, we can agree that the DeskCycle does have a low profile. I’ve personally tried other brands and find I have to adjust my chair height and desk height to prevent my knees from banging the underside of my desk. Not ideal! As such, we give the DeskCycle 2 a perfect 5 out of 5 for ergonomics.
Footprint and Portability
The DeckCycle 2 Under Desk Exercise Bike is absolutely a small machine, but not as petite as Nicole expected after placing her order. “It weighs 23 pounds, so it’s not super heavy. However, there is no handle or any easy way to pick it up and carry it around,” Nicole says in reference to her 3-out-of-5 footprint and portability rating. “It ends up being a bit awkward.”
Before it arrived, Nicole was under the impression it would be more compact under her desk, too. “I have a really slim desk and it definitely sticks out when I’m using it,” Nicole notes.
The DeskCycle is 24 inches long, which will take up quite a bit of space under any desk once your computer chair is rolled under there, as well.
The website states you can use the DeskCycle at a workstation as low as 27 inches, and it can accommodate a person 5 feet, 8 inches tall at that desk height. For a 28-inch workstation height, users can be up to 5 feet, 11 inches tall. The DeskCycle website doesn’t mention anything about taller individuals, but your workstation is presumably higher than 28 inches if you’re closer to 6 feet tall.
RELATED: Different Types of Exercise Bikes
Customer Experience
DeskCycle does not sell products directly through the company’s website. Instead, you’ll have to buy the DeskCycle on Amazon. Fortunately, when it comes to Amazon, you can return an item for free within 30 days of delivery for a full refund, which you can do at any Amazon return location near you.
If you need to contact DeskCycle, there appears to be only one method—a contact form on the website. To be honest, you’ll probably have better luck going through Amazon. Accordingly, we give the DeskCycle 2 a conservative 3 out of 5 for the customer experience.
Customer Reviews
Reviews for the DeskCycle 2 are all over the place, ranging from thrilled customers to people who returned the product. However, the more negative reviews are centered around individual ergonomics rather than the quality of the machine. On Amazon, the DeskCycle 2 has more than 13,500 customer reviews with an average star rating of 4.5 out of 5.
DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Exercise Bike And Pedal Exerciser Vs
The MagneTrainer-ER is another under-desk pedaler on our list of the best mini exercise bikes. If you’re choosing between the DeskCycle 2 and the MagneTrainer-ER, it really comes down to how much resistance and versatility you want. Our testers say the DeskCycle 2 feels like the more well-rounded option, overall, with more resistance levels and obvious sturdiness.
The MagneTrainer ER, on the other hand, leans more toward simplicity and portability. It’s extremely compact and easy to move around. That said, it usually costs more than the DeskCycle 2 while delivering less resistance, so unless you really value its smaller footprint or plan to travel with it, the DeskCycle 2 feels like the better value for most people.
Another top pick is the Sunny Health & Fitness Under-Desk Pedal Exerciser. Compared to the DeskCycle 2, the Sunny model is more budget-friendly while still providing a solid under-desk workout. It has the same eight resistance levels and remains quiet in use, though our testers say the DeskCycle’s resistance is more intense.
Our testers do appreciate the built-in handle on the Sunny pedaler, though, which makes it easier to move around. The DeskCycle 2 generally feels more robust, but at a higher price point and with a bigger footprint.
| DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Exercise Bike And Pedal Exerciser | Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Under-Desk Bike | MagneTrainer ER Mini Exercise Bike | |
| Price (Original MSRP) | $149.99 (standard height) $159.99 (adjustable height) | $169.99 | $179.99 |
| Footprint | 10.24” D x 24.02” W x 20.08” H | 15.9″ D x 21.7″ W x 10.2″ H | 9″ D x 16″ W x 16″ H |
| Product Weight | 23 lbs | 15.9 lbs | 23 lbs |
| Weight Capacity | 270 lbs | 350 lbs | Not listed online |
| Resistance | 8 levels of magnetic resistance (max 39 lbs of resistance) | 18 levels | 8 levs |
| Display | LCD screen | LCD screen | LCD screen |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year |
Final Verdict of Our DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Exercise Bike And Pedal Exerciser Review
The DeskCycle 2 might not be the answer to everyone’s fitness goals. That said, it can certainly help anyone looking to add more movement into a long workday, which research says can have positive impacts on the health of desk workers2.
We like the following features on the DeskCycle:
- Smooth magnetic resistance
- 8 levels of resistance
- Fairly lightweight machine
- 270-pound user weight capacity
- Low-to-the-ground profile
- Removable monitor
- Foot pedals can be set hands-free
All in all, we think it’s one of the best mini exercise bikes available.
DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Exercise Bike And Pedal Exerciser Review: FAQs
What is the difference between the DeskCycle and the DeskCycle 2?
The only difference between the DeskCycle 2 and the original DeskCycle is that the second generation offers a lower 9-inch setting for the pedal height.
Is a pedal exerciser a good workout?
Although a pedal exerciser can enhance movement throughout a sedentary workday, it might not be enough exercise to offset the effects of prolonged sitting.
Is an under-desk treadmill or bike better?
This depends not only on your budget (under-desk treadmills are often more expensive), but your fitness level, as well. Exercise bikes offer low-impact workouts while treadmills will have more impact on your ankles, knees, and hips.
Is an under-desk elliptical or under-desk bike better?
Under-desk bikes and elliptical machines function very similarly. The motion of an elliptical is more stride-like than spin-like, and it generally engages more of the hip musculature than a bike. Under-desk bikes, however, tend to offer more resistance levels.
References
- Daneshmandi H, Choobineh A, Ghaem H, Karimi M. Adverse Effects of Prolonged Sitting Behavior on the General Health of Office Workers. J Lifestyle Med. 2017;7(2):69-75.
- ROVNIAK, L. S., CHO, J., FREIVALDS, A., KONG, L., DE ARAUJO-GREECHER, M., BOPP, M., SCIAMANNA, C. N., & ROTHROCK, L. (2022). Effects of desk pedaling work rate on concurrent work performance among physically inactive adults: A randomized experiment. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 55(1), 20–31.
