Welcome to our guide to the best recumbent bikes we’ve found in the UK (updated for 2025). If you’re feeling overwhelmed but the wide range of competing products for sale at places like Amazon, we’ll help you pick the perfect bike for you.
- Resistance: Magnetic
- Display: LCD
- Max Weight: 300 Pounds
- Resistance Levels: 8 Levels
- Resistance: Magnetic resistance
- Display: LCD
- Max Weight: 158.76 Kilograms
- Resistance Levels: 8 Preset levels
- Resistance: Magnetic
- Display: Large computer screen
- Max Weight: 130 Kilograms
- Resistance Levels: Adjustable magnetic resistance
- Resistance: Magnetic Tension
- Display: LCD
- Max Weight: 300 lbs
- Resistance Levels: 8 Levels
- Resistance: Magnetic
- Display: Heart Rate, Speed, Calories Burned, Time, Distance
- Max Weight: 160 Kilograms
- Resistance Levels: 8
- Resistance: Magnetic Resistance
- Display: Heart Rate, Distance
- Max Weight: 181 Kilograms
- Resistance Levels: 16
An often-overlooked form of exercise, this style of stationary bike provides a superb way to get in shape and lose calories at home. Furthermore, they’re ideal for anyone who can’t train on an upright bike too, offering safe training for those with back injuries.
As with every fitness category, there’s a whole slew of reclined bikes promising to be the best on the market but we’ve dug deep and found the best ones we think you’ll want to look at. Whatever your budget, you’ll find something here that suits your needs.
Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike
Sturdy, reliable, and catering to all fitness levels, the Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Bike is ideal for those seeking a cost-effective solution to home workouts.
Check Latest PriceUnboxing the Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike with 8 Resistance Levels NS-40502R
Ever wrestled with an assembly manual that reads like a cryptic ancient scroll? Fear not with the Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike. It's a breeze to put together, letting you kickstart your fitness journey without breaking a sweat – well, at least not until you start pedaling! And let's talk about the throne you'll be reigning from: this bike's seat is the comfy armchair of exercise equipment. Trust me, your behind will thank you.
What's the Deal with Comfort and Price?
Who says you have to remortgage your house for a solid workout at home? This machine is a wallet's best friend, offering a robust build that doesn't wobble like a jelly on a treadmill. It's a chariot for every shape and size, with an adjustable seat that says 'come hither' to long legs and petite frames alike. And the peacefulness? It's like a library on wheels, keeping the peace with housemates or family while you cycle towards Valhalla.
Any Niggles?
Now, let's address the elephant in the room. If you've got the towering elegance of a basketball player, you might find this bike a tad cozy. And for the fitness fanatics who eat iron for breakfast, the resistance might feel like a gentle stroll rather than a mountain climb. But hey, nobody's perfect, right?
Stacking Up Against the Competition
When you line it up with its peers, this trusty steed holds its own. Sure, it's not the Tour de France of exercise bikes, but it's not trying to be. It's the reliable friend that's there when you need it, without the frills or spills. Just don't expect it to turn into a gym beast overnight; it's more of a domesticated creature.
So, Should You Swipe Right on This Bike?
Bottom line: If you're dipping a toe into the fitness waters or you're a golden-ager looking for a trusty steed, you've hit the jackpot. It's as snug as a bug and friendly on the purse. But if you're the next Sir Chris Hoy, you might crave a bit more oomph. Choose wisely, my friends!
- Assembly Instructions: Easy to follow, making setup a breeze for users.
- Comfortable Seating: Supportive for prolonged exercise, enhancing user experience.
- Value for Money: Excellent price point for a quality recumbent bike.
- Compact Design: Ideal for homes with limited space and easy to store.
- Quiet Operation: Ensures a noise-free workout, perfect for domestic environments.
- Size Limitations: May not accommodate taller individuals comfortably.
- Resistance Range: Limited levels may not challenge advanced users sufficiently.
- Assembly Time: Could be lengthy, potentially taking up to 5 hours.
Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike
Sturdy, reliable and optimised for a whisper-quiet home workout, the Marcy Recumbent Bike is ideal for fitness enthusiasts seeking a comfortable exercise solution.
Check Latest PriceUnboxing the Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike NS-908R
Imagine unboxing the recumbentwith Magnetic Resistance and Pulse Sensor NS-908R White 30.50 x 11.50 x 21.50 inches - your new sleek home gym compatriot. Picture yourself sliding this compact beauty into that cosy corner of your abode; it's like it was made for that spot! Whisper-quiet, it promises to be the silent partner in your fitness journey, allowing you to indulge in a cheeky episode of your favourite show without missing a beat. Plus, with its nifty pulse sensor, you're one glance away from being on top of your heart rate game. Efficiency at its finest, wouldn't you say?
Setting Up Shop
Now, let's talk assembly. If you're like me and you consider a successful IKEA trip as one where you don't end up with a surplus of mysterious extra pieces, then you'll be chuffed to bits with how this bike comes together. A clear manual, parts that actually have labels - it's almost like they want us to succeed. And once you're done, voila! You're ready to pedal your way to glory.
Comfort Meets Convenience
But here's the kicker - comfort. We've all been on those torture devices they call exercise bikes, right? Fear not, the seat on this machine is like a cloud made of dreams, with multiple positions to boot. Trust me, your behind will thank you.
Not All Smooth Riding
Let's not pedal around the truth, though. Some punters have had a bit of a moan about duff units, a monitor display that's seen better days, and a seat that's as adjustable as a block of cement. Not exactly the bee's knees, but worth considering.
Comparing Apples and Oranges... or Bikes
So how does this two-wheeled wonder stack up against its rivals? It's got the quiet, space-saving charm and the cushy seat, but it's also got a bit of an Achilles' heel with the whole quality kerfuffle and the monitor mishap. If you're not too bothered about a seat that plays hard to get with adjustments, then it might just be your cup of tea.
Verdict: Yay or Nay?
Alright, brass tacks time. Is the Marcy worth the dosh? For people after a no-fuss, whisper-quiet, comfy-bottomed experience, it's a solid maybe. Just keep one eye open for those quality quirks. Happy pedalling!
- Compact design: Sleek and space-efficient, perfect for home use.
- Quiet operation: Near-silent performance enhances user experience.
- Heart rate monitoring: Built-in pulse sensor keeps track of your heart rate.
- Easy assembly: Straightforward setup with clear instructions.
- Comfortable seat: Padded seat with backrest for extended workout comfort.
- Faulty units: Some reports of receiving a bike with fitting issues.
- Poor display: Monitor hard to read without backlighting.
Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike Adjustable Magnetic Resistance
Sturdy, reliable, and tailored for all fitness levels, the recumbent bike ensures pain-free intensity for home exercisers.
Check Latest PriceThe Upsides of the Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike Adjustable Magnetic Resistance | NS-1206R
Diving straight into the nitty-gritty, this recumbent bike is a godsend for your posterior, midsection, and pins. It's a veritable throne of fitness, allowing you to break a sweat without breaking your back. The age spectrum is no barrier here; whether you're a spry youngster or have a few more seasons under your belt, this bike is your steadfast workout ally. Its robust build quality scoffs at the notion of wear and tear, and with assembly as breezy as a spring morning, you'll be pedalling towards fitness nirvana in no time.
The Quirks We Squinted At
Now, let's chat brass tacks – the digital display is as fiddly as a crossword puzzle with its teeny text. If your peepers aren't what they used to be, you might be squinting more than pedalling. Pedal woes also crop up – these cheeky chaps have been known to skedaddle off the bike, leaving some users in a lurch. And if you're in a dimly lit room, good luck reading your stats without a torch.
Riding High or Flat Tyre?
When pit against its counterparts, our trusty steed holds its head high with its plush design and solid-as-a-rock build. But let's not gloss over the pedal predicament and the display dilemma. Are these deal-breakers? That depends on your deal threshold.
The Final Word: To Purchase or Not to Purchase?
Stripping it down, this recumbent bike is like a cushioned chariot for your fitness journey – reliable and kind to your body. Yet, it's not without its quirks. The display could use a font boost, and the pedal issue does need addressing. Weighing it all up, if you're on the hunt for low-impact, high-comfort exercise, it's certainly worth popping on your shortlist.
- Comfortable Workout: Offers exceptional support for the back, abdomen, and legs.
- Safe for Various Ages: Design ensures a secure exercise routine for different fitness levels.
- Practical: Features ease of use and long-lasting durability.
- Sturdy Construction: Well-made with simple assembly process.
- Progress Tracking: Large computer screen measures various exercise metrics.
Exerpeutic 1500XL Recumbent Exercise Bike
Sturdy, reliable and packed with user-friendly features for a seamless workout experience. Perfect for those seeking comfort and value in a recumbent bike.
Check Latest PriceUnboxing the Exerpeutic 1500XL: A Breeze or a Battle?
Ever wrestled with a DIY project that turned your lounge into a scene from a suspense thriller? Fear not with the Exerpeutic 1500XL Recumbent Exercise Bike with Pulse | 300 lbs. Weight Capacity. The setup is a walk in the park. One person, one set of clear instructions, and voilà, you're ready to pedal your way to fitness bliss.
Is Comfort King on the Exerpeutic Throne?
Affirmative! Got a cranky neck? The adjustable seat is like a cloud for your spine, offering a royal array of tension options to suit your noble workout preferences. And the strain-free posture? It's the knight in shining armor for people battling physical gremlins.
Will Moving This Beast Break My Back?
Not a chance! It's like it has its own set of tiny legs. Those small wheels upfront turn relocation into a graceful dance move. And as for noise, what noise? This stealthy machine is as quiet as a ninja, perfect for keeping the peace in your castle.
Is the Tech Savvy or Just Plain Tedious?
Tablet holder? Check. Bluetooth connectivity? Double check. This isn't just about pedaling into oblivion; it's about tracking your quest with the precision of a hawk. Heart rate, time, distance – you name it, it's displayed. And all without the cacophony of beeps and buzzes you might expect from lesser gadgets.
But Wait, Are There Chinks in the Armor?
Well, nobody's perfect, right? You might find the throne - erm, seat - needs a nudge back into place now and then. And for the fitness gladiators out there, the resistance may feel like a light breeze rather than a mighty gale. Plus, not everyone's derrière finds the seat a slice of heaven.
Exerpeutic 1500XL: The Verdict
So, is the Exerpeutic 1500XL your next trusty steed? For people seeking a comfortable, no-frills path to health, indeed it is. It's packed with enough features to keep your exercise routine from becoming a medieval torture device, all while not demanding a king's ransom. Sure, it's not without its quirks, but then again, what hero is?
- Easy Assembly: Assembles in about 2 hours with straightforward instructions.
- Comfortable Seating: Adjustable with various tension options, alleviating neck strain.
- Neutral Posture: Promotes strain-free workouts, beneficial for users with physical limitations.
- Compact Design: Small wheels enable easy relocation around the house.
- Value for Money: Offers reliability and durability at an excellent price point.
- Seat Slippage: The seat may require readjustment as it can slide back during workouts.
- Limited Resistance: May not provide sufficient intensity for advanced riders.
Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Bike Exercise Bike
Sturdy, reliable and offering a full-body workout, the Sunny Health and Fitness bike is ideal for home gyms and suitable for users of various ages and fitness levels.
Check Latest PriceWhat We Adored About the Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Bike Exercise Bike
Ever had that 'new gadget' excitement? That’s the vibe when the recumbent turns up at your doorstep. With packaging that withstands even the most enthusiastic courier, you're off to a flying start. Comfort meets you at every pedal; a cushy seat and resistance levels that cater from newbie to pro make workouts a breeze. And those wheels at the front? They transform this fitness chariot into a mobile marvel - now everyone at home can vouch for their favourite spot to sweat it out!
What Gave Us Pause...
But wait, is our fitness dream machine showing some wear? Reports of soldering sorrows and the dreaded wire snap have surfaced, casting a shadow over the build quality. Do you crave resistance that makes your muscles sing? Well, some folks reckon they’re pedalling forever to hit their fitness high notes. And if you're not a fan of puzzles, the assembly might just test your patience, not to mention the unexpected symphony of squeaks and creaks when you're in the zone.
Does It Out-pedal The Competition?
Throw it in the ring with its recumbent rivals, and the Sunny model punches above its weight class in the resistance range and flexibility gym. But, don’t throw your weights out just yet; its Achilles' heel might be its longevity and the knack for playing a game of “build it yourself” better suited for a Rubik's Cube champion.
Verdict: To Buy or Not to Buy?
Let's cut straight to the chase: the bike is a cosy corner office in the world of at-home fitness. It's got the moves with its versatile workouts and doesn't ask for your life savings. Yet, it’s not all sunshine; we're talking a few clouds with its question mark over durability, the resistance that might leave the hardcore cold, and a jigsaw assembly. If your workout mantra is 'built to last,' you might want to shop around for a beast with more brawn and less puzzle.
- Delivery and Packaging: Timely delivery with secure packaging, including all necessary tools and clear instructions for hassle-free assembly.
- Comfort and Resistance: Comfortable seating and a diverse range of resistance levels ensure an effective workout for various fitness goals.
- Portability: Equipped with front wheels for easy relocation, enhancing flexibility in workout spaces.
- Family-Friendly: High-quality construction makes it suitable for both seniors and younger users, broadening its appeal.
- Versatile Workouts: Features leg and arm exercises, vital tracking display, and device clip for entertainment during workouts.
- Durability Concerns: Reports of defective parts and breakages such as pedal soldering and wires highlight potential quality issues.
- Resistance Levels: Some users find the maximum resistance too low, impacting the intensity of workouts.
- Assembly Manual: Instructions in the manual can be misleading, causing assembly difficulties for some users.
LifeSpan Fitness Recumbent Bike R3i
Sturdy, reliable and packed with features for an engaging home workout. Best suited for fitness enthusiasts seeking durability and variety in workouts.
Check Latest PriceExpert Review: LifeSpan Fitness Recumbent Bike R3i
Rolling up our sleeves and diving into the world of home fitness, we've put the recumbent through its paces. What's the verdict, you ask? Well, the craftsmanship is nothing short of a round of applause. It's like having a slice of your favourite gym tucked away in your abode. The robust construction whispers promises of longevity and unwavering support as you pedal your way to fitness glory - a true testament to its gym-grade DNA.
Lost in Translation?
But here's the rub: the R3i seems to have a one-track mind, speaking only in the Queen's English. For people who dream in other languages, this could be a bit of a pickle. So, why is this exclusivity a concern? Imagine the frustration of grappling with features lost in translation - it's like trying to salsa with two left feet.
How Does It Stack Up?
Comparing apples to apples, or bikes to bikes in this case, the R3i pedals ahead with its exceptional build. It's akin to finding a diamond in a rough sea of options. But let's not ignore the elephant in the room: the language barrier could send some riders off course.
Summing Up the Ride
In a nutshell, the bike is a sturdy steed, ready to charge into your home fitness battle. But, a word to the wise: if Shakespeare's tongue isn't your strong suit, you might need a translator to join your fitness journey. Despite this hiccup, the R3i is poised to win the hearts (and health) of fitness enthusiasts who prefer their workouts served with a side of domestic comfort and reliability.
- Quality build: Provides a gym-like experience with excellent and solid material.
- Adjustable features: Ensures a comfortable workout experience.
- Resistance levels: Offers 16 levels to accommodate various fitness levels.
- Weight capacity: Can support users up to 181 kilograms.
- Material: Made with durable aluminium.
- Language limitation: English-only instructions may not be accessible for all users.
Buyer’s Guide
In this quick overview of what you should be looking for if you’re buying a recumbent machine, we’ll go over the key specs to look for and some help choosing your perfect machine. The following is based on a lot of research and testing of various recumbent gear over the years.
What exactly is a recumbent bike?
There are really two kinds of these bikes: indoor ones and outdoor ones. The machine we’re concerned with for this guide is, of course, the kind you don’t need to ride on the road.
Like a regular upright exercise bike, the recumbent involves sitting down and pedalling. The biggest difference in the design is that this kind of bike has a much lower seat and a step-through design. They are much easier to get into position and you’re not up a great height, as some bikes make you feel.
This reclined position supports your back and you’ll strictly only be using your legs here.
As such, they’re a great form of exercise for seniors. But whatever your fitness level or your fitness goals, you’ll get a good workout here. Increasing your level of resistance means you can really work your leg muscles in a short space of time, no matter how fit you are.
Though they’re comfy to use, you can get a really tough workout
What to expect using this style of indoor exercise bike
- A smooth ride – Along with ellipticals, this is one of the most gentle ways you can workout. There’s very little impact here and whatever your current body weight, you’ll feel comfortable using one of these machines.
- Different workout programs – Each recumbent will have a computer that can adjust the resistance levels and offer a varied routine. You can do simple programs like hill climbing, HIIT and fat burning workouts.
Main things to look for in a recumbent exercise cycle
While every recumbent looks amazing in the pics (well, mostly – there are some ugly ones out there) they’re often very different ‘under the hood’, so to speak. While we can’t review or feature every bike out there, here’s some basic advice on getting one that won’t need to be sent back in a month.
- Comfortable seat – As far as exercise bikes go, recumbents are generally wonderfully supportive and way more comfortable than any upright bike. But it’s worth checking the padded seat and backrest to see what kind it is. They generally fall into 2 categories: Car-seat style and perforated. The first is more comfortable but can get a bit, well… sweaty. The second is more sporty but will let your back breathe a lot more. But they’re more bouncy and not quite as comfortable as the former. Pick which one you want and check reviews for comfort.
- Has this got enough resistance levels for me? One thing that does vary wildly from one machine to the next is the level of resistance the bike has. This is also entirely subjective. One gym buffs too easy might be more than a senior rider might ever need. Make no mistake, these machines can challenge every athletic level but you’ve got to pick a machine that can keep up with your demands. This brings us nicely on to…
- Weight capacity – this style of exercise bike generally has a high upper weight limit, but it’s a specification that can vary a great deal. If you’re on the heavier side, make sure to check the bike can accommodate you.
- The flywheel! That’s the heavy circular disk that’s normally mounted to the front of your recumbent bike. Bigger is normally better but, as more expensive machines generally have bigger flywheels, you might be able to save a few quid if you go for a cheaper one with a lighter flywheel. You do not need a monster weight if you’re petite, just getting started or are in an older age group.
- What’s the panel like? Another thing you’ll want to spend some time looking at is the console (also known as the monitor or display). Cheaper bikes will often harbour small, dim LCD panels. The better ones will have brightly lit LED panels that have graphics on showing how hard the pre-programmed workout is. You should also be able to see a number of stats at once.
- Has it got Bluetooth and can I use 3rd party apps? While not everyone gives a hoot about this, it’s still worth mentioning. A number of recumbents will have online connectivity. Ideally, they’ll connect to 3rd party apps. Don’t assume that just because there’s an app it’s any good. There are some AWFUL Chinese apps that you won’t want to use. iFit and Kinomap are two (albeit paid) apps that are wonderful.
- Little stuff – Tablet holders and water bottle holder – Hey, these things matter. Check there’s somewhere to put your phone, keys and definitely your drink. And here’s something we should whisper in a guide about recumbents… it can get a bit boring. So a tablet holder means you can watch something interesting, educational or fun to keep your mind engaged.
FAQs
Does one size fit anyone?
This type of exercise bike is a bit easier to match up with different body sizes as they offer a large number of seat adjustments. The oversized seat will normally slide back and forwards up to a foot or more, fitting all kinds of body types.
Can I get a good cardiovascular workout here?
If you just sit on a recumbent and cycle, you’ll likely find you can pedal for a long time without getting anywhere. By increasing the magnetic resistance level, or trying one of the preset workouts, you will quickly find you get out of breath. Most recumbents also have built in heart rate sensors to keep track of your heart rate.
Can you move these bikes around?
The majority of bikes in this category can be moved around your home thanks to transport wheels under the bike. They’re a bit clunky but it’s definitely doable.
Thanks for reading this guide. Please let us know in the comments if we’ve missed any you’d like to see featured, or if you train with a recumbent.
