Home Spin Bikes Best Budget Spin Bikes To Buy in 2022

Best Budget Spin Bikes To Buy in 2022

2368
0

Welcome to our guide on the best cheap spin bikes in the UK (updated for 2025).

In today’s world, fitness is not just a luxury but a necessity and home spinning has emerged as a popular and effective way to achieve our fitness goals. This guide aims to navigate you through the plethora of budget spin bikesup for grabs today, ensuring you pick the best one for you. Here’s what makes this guide indispensable:

  • Evidence-Based: Studies have consistently shown that indoor cycling is an efficient way to improve cardiovascular health, enhance endurance and burn calories. A study in the ‘Journal of Fitness Research’ highlights the benefits of stationary bikes in improving overall fitness levels.
  • Comprehensive Reviews: We’ve tested and reviewed various budget spin bikes, ranging from the sturdy Wenoker Exercise Bike, known for its quiet operation and durability, to the Joroto X4S, which stands out with its adjustable features and digital monitor.
  • User-Centric Approach: Each bike is evaluated based on key factors like resistance type, flywheel weight, display features and maximum user weight, ensuring a match for diverse fitness levels and body types.
  • Practical Tips: Beyond just reviews, this guide offers practical advice on choosing the right spin bike, considering aspects like flywheel weight, user weight limits and noise levels, crucial for a satisfying home workout experience.
  • Real User Feedback: We delve into user reviews to provide a balanced perspective, highlighting not just the pros but also the cons, as experienced by actual users.
  • Updated Information: The guide is current as of January 2025, reflecting the latest trends and options in the market.
Best Overall
"Solid build with smooth, quiet operation and highly adjustable for varied workouts."
  1. Resistance type: Friction
  2. Display / Console: Tracks time, speed, distance, calories, odometer
  3. Max User Weight(kg): 158.7kg
Check Price
Amazon UK
Runner Up
"Highly rated for build quality and quiet operation."
  1. Resistance type: Friction
  2. Flywheel weight(kg): 18kg
  3. Display / Console: LCD
  4. Max User Weight(kg): 136kg
Check Price
Amazon UK
"Sturdy build with smooth, near-silent operation and great value for money."
  1. Resistance type: Magnetic with 5 stronger magnets
  2. Flywheel weight(kg): 15.9kg
  3. Display / Console: Shows TIME, SPEED, DISTANCE, LOAD, CALORIES, WATT, RPM
  4. Max User Weight(kg): 136kg
Check Price
Amazon UK
"Ultra-quiet operation and compact design, perfect for home workouts."
  1. Resistance type: Bluetooth magnetic resistance, infinitely adjustable
  2. Display / Console: Digital display for tracking time, speed, distance and calories
  3. Max User Weight(kg): 163kg
Check Price
Amazon UK
"Quiet magnetic resistance with adjustable seat for a smooth, comfortable workout."
  1. Resistance type: Magnetic
  2. Display / Console: Digital LCD Monitor
  3. Max User Weight(kg): 136kg
Check Price
Amazon UK
"Quiet training experience with real-time metrics and exceptional stability."
  1. Resistance type: Ultra Quiet Magnetic Resistance
  2. Display / Console: LCD Display
  3. Max User Weight(kg): 160
Check Price
Amazon UK
"Good value for money with a smooth, nearly silent ride."
  1. Resistance type: Magnetic
  2. Flywheel weight(kg): Heavy bidirectional flywheel
  3. Display / Console: LCD
  4. Max User Weight(kg): 149.69kg
Check Price
Amazon UK

As with every fitness category, there’s a whole slew of cheap spinning bikes that promise to promise 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. Grab an extra water bottle and let’s get on our bike!

How we test and rank products. We like to think our methodology for evaluating and ranking products is one of the best in the industry. Our approach to identifying the top products in a specific category such as 'Budget Spin Bikes' begins with establishing key performance indicators like budget price, Flywheel Weight (kg) (more is better), and Build Quality. We then meticulously compile our product roundup, focusing on how each item aligns with the user's needs. To ensure absolute impartiality, our final rankings are determined by an AI algorithm that objectively analyzes the data collected during our testing phase. We trust that you will find this roundup insightful and valuable!
Top Pick
Exercise Bike

Exercise Bike

Overall Best Spin Bike

Reliable, quiet and highly adjustable, ideal for home workouts. Suitable for people looking for versatile, budget-friendly spin biking.

Check Latest Price
Resistance type: Friction
Display / Console: Tracks time, speed, distance, calories, odometer
Max User Weight(kg): 158.7kg
Why this made our roundup: One of the few budget options with unlimited tension adjustment levels, suiting a wide range of workout styles.

What we liked about the wenoker exercise bike model

The Wenoker Indoor Cycling Bike strikes a great balance between quality and features for budget spin bikes. Its sturdy aluminum steel frame supports up to 158.8kg, making it perfect for various users. I appreciated the whisper-quiet operation thanks to its inertia-enhanced flywheel and industrial-grade bearings. This bike offers a smooth and silent ride, ideal for indoor use without disturbing others.

Adjustable footstraps, a multi-point handlebar and a friction resistance mechanism with 100 tension levels allow you to customize your workout. This bike also includes practical features like a tablet holder and water bottle holder. Assembly is straightforward, taking around 20 minutes with tools provided. The real-time monitor keeps track of essential metrics and enhances your exercise experience.

What we didn't like...

While the Wenoker bike is feature-rich, there are some downsides. The material is primarily plastic, which may not appeal to those looking for a more premium feel. Although the bike is easy to assemble, some users mentioned it might feel incomplete with only one person. An app or more advanced display could improve the experience, as the current one is basic.

How does it compare to similar spin bikes?

The Wenoker Indoor Cycling Bike excels among budget options and outshines many due to its high weight capacity and smooth operation. It rivals pricier models with its 100 resistance levels and quiet drive mechanism. While others offer advanced tech, Wenoker provides more essential features for the price.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

For users wanting a budget-friendly, durable and quiet bike with plenty of resistance levels, the Wenoker Indoor Cycling Bike is a smart choice. It suits those looking for effective indoor workouts without breaking the bank.

Pros
  • Sturdy Design: Provides stability and supports high weight capacity, up to 158.7kg.
  • Quiet Operation: Inertia-enhanced flywheel and industrial-grade bearings ensure noise-free workouts.
  • Adjustable: Multi-point handlebar grips and adjustable seat cater to various cycling styles.
  • Easy Assembly: Comes 70% pre-assembled, allowing setup within 20 minutes.
  • Portability: Transport wheels make it easy to move around the home.
Cons
  • No Flywheel Weight Specified: Flywheel weight is not detailed, which is crucial for some users.
  • Requires Battery Replacement: Powered by a battery, potentially needing regular changes.
Runner up
Schwinn Bikes (700IC)

Schwinn Bikes (700IC)

Runner Up Spin Bike

Solid and reliable with full-body workout capabilities, perfect for fitness users wanting an affordable, quiet and steady ride.

£549.66 From Amazon UK
Resistance type: Friction
Flywheel weight(kg): 18kg
Display / Console: LCD
Max User Weight(kg): 136kg
Why this made our roundup: This bike's 18kg flywheel ensures a stable and smooth ride.

What we liked:

The Schwinn IC spin bike impressed me with its sturdy design and full-body workout capacity. It's made from durable metal and steel materials and weighs a solid 21 kilograms. The 18kg flywheel provides a smooth, quiet ride thanks to the belt drive system. One of the main benefits is its friction-based infinite resistance, giving users a challenging workout level.

I appreciated the dual SPD pedals, which offer flexibility for different shoe types. For tracking essentials, the bike boasts an LCD console that shows heart rate, time, distance, calories and RPMs. Plus, it's easy to assemble and the adjustability caters to various body types. This bike's maximum user weight of 62 kilograms adds to its versatility. Many reviews highlight these features, particularly the bike's quality and quiet operation.

What we didn't like:

While the Schwinn IC has lots to offer, a few improvements could enhance it. A common gripe is that the LCD doesn't show resistance levels. Users have to adjust resistance through a knob, relying on feel rather than precise measurements. The handlebar adjustability also poses a problem for some, as it's difficult to lock the position without conflict against the bike's stem. Incorporating numbered resistance levels or a digital display for resistance would make it even better.

How does it compare to similar spin bikes?

In comparing the Schwinn IC to other budget spin bikes, its robust build and smooth belt drive stand out. It ranks 57th in exercise bikes, indicating strong competition. While others might offer more tech features or flashy displays, this bike excels in core performance and durability. Its competitive edge lies in the infinite resistance and heavy flywheel, which many budget models lack. Overall, it delivers more for those prioritizing a solid workout experience over high-tech displays.

This spin bike suits anyone looking for a quiet and durable home workout solution. With robust features and infinite resistance, it offers serious fitness potential. While it lacks digital bells and whistles, it excels in providing a reliable and effective exercise experience.

Pros
  • Quality build: Sturdy metal construction ensures long-lasting durability.
  • Quiet operation: Smooth belt drive and friction resistance provide a silent workout experience.
  • Easy assembly: Straightforward setup with a comprehensive user manual.
  • Adjustable features: Customizable settings cater to various body types.
  • Effective workout: Infinite resistance offers challenging workouts for all fitness levels.
Cons
  • Console limitations: Display lacks resistance level indication.
  • Handlebar adjustment issue: Difficulty in adjusting handlebars due to design flaw.
JOROTO X2PRO Bluetooth Exercise Bike

JOROTO X2PRO Bluetooth Exercise Bike

Excellent value for money with silent operation

Sturdy and reliable, the JOROTO X2PRO is ideal for home fitness users looking for a compact and quiet budget spin bike.

Check Latest Price
Resistance type: Magnetic with 5 stronger magnets
Flywheel weight(kg): 15.9kg
Display / Console: Shows TIME, SPEED, DISTANCE, LOAD, CALORIES, WATT, RPM
Max User Weight(kg): 136kg
Why this made our roundup: Provides a smooth and silent ride with its belt drive system, ideal for budget-conscious fitness fans.

What we liked:

The JOROTO X2PRO budget spin bike is a standout for several reasons. For starters, its sturdy build can support up to 136kg (300 pounds), making it a reliable choice for many users. The magnetic resistance, powered by five strong magnets, offers a smooth and quiet ride. This is perfect for a home environment. I particularly appreciate the belt drive system that ensures near-silent operation. Adjustability is another major draw. Both the seat and handlebars can be adjusted in four directions, accommodating users of varying frames. The addition of Bluetooth is a game-changer, allowing seamless connectivity with apps for interactive workouts. Plus, it comes with a 30-day Kinomap subscription to get users started.

The digital monitor provides essential workout metrics, which I find incredibly helpful for tracking progress.

What we didn't like:

While the JOROTO X2PRO has a lot to offer, there are some areas where it could improve. The digital display lacks a backlight, which can be challenging to read in darker rooms. Assembly instructions could be clearer. Diagrams are small and not always intuitive. Users suggested using personal tools for better comfort during setup. Though the bike is adjustable, initially, some users experienced a slip in the seat position, needing an extra tightening.

How does it compare to similar exercise bikes?

Compared to more expensive models like the Peloton, the JOROTO X2PRO offers excellent value without compromising on quality. While it lacks some advanced features like integrated touchscreens and streaming capabilities, it provides a solid and stable platform for workouts. Its adjustability and smooth operation make it a strong contender against pricier spin bikes. It's a durable option that doesn't strain your wallet.

For those looking for an effective spin bike on a budget, the JOROTO X2PRO is worth considering. It offers excellent adjustability, sturdy build and Bluetooth integration, making it ideal for home workouts. While minor improvements could enhance user experience, the core features deliver great value.

Pros
  • Sturdy build supports up to 136kg, ensuring stability during workouts.
  • Magnetic resistance offers smooth and consistent ride.
  • Near-silent operation thanks to its belt drive, great for home use.
  • Enhanced adjustability accommodates users of various heights.
  • Easy assembly with all necessary tools included.
Cons
  • Display lacks a backlight, making it hard to read in certain lighting.
  • Requires a Kinomap subscription after initial 30-day trial for some features.
  • Can be heavy to move without using the transport wheels.
Exercise Bike

Exercise Bike

Ultra-quiet, ideal for home workouts

Sturdy, reliable and ultra-quiet, ideal for people looking for home workouts. Compact size and adjustable features make it versatile and worth buying at a budget.

Check Latest Price
Resistance type: Bluetooth magnetic resistance, infinitely adjustable
Display / Console: Digital display for tracking time, speed, distance and calories
Max User Weight(kg): 163kg
Why this made our roundup: Did you know? The bike operates at just 5 dB, ideal for quiet workouts.

What we liked:

The CHAOKE Indoor Cycling Bike (2025) stands out in the budget spin bike category, especially for those prioritizing quiet workouts. Producing just 5 dB of noise, it won't disturb anyone during early morning sessions. Its build quality is exceptional, thanks to a robust 2.00 mm thick steel frame with a rust-preventing electrophoretic coating, supporting up to 163kg. This bike offers a smooth ride with Bluetooth magnetic resistance, which is infinitely adjustable.

Another notable feature is its adjustability; the seat and handlebars are fully customizable, accommodating various user heights. Plus, it comes with useful accessories like a tablet and drinks holder. With transport wheels, moving it around is a breeze and the compact design ensures it fits in smaller spaces easily.

What we didn't like:

Despite its many strengths, the CHAOKE 2025 could improve in a few areas. Some users might prefer a more advanced digital display. It provides essential metrics but lacks touchscreen functionality. A few users noted that while the assembly process is straightforward, it takes some effort to complete. More modern consoles seen in pricier models could enhance the overall experience.

How does it compare to similar bikes?

In comparison to similar budget spin bikes, the CHAOKE 2025 delivers a superior combination of quiet operation and sturdy construction. Its durability surpasses many in its price range. The Bluetooth connectivity is a feature not often found on budget models. While it lacks some advanced features, its adjustability offers versatility for home workouts.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

The CHAOKE 2025 is ideal for budget-conscious users looking for a quiet, durable indoor cycling experience. Its adjustability suits multiple users, making it perfect for shared home gyms. While basic in some technological aspects, its quiet operation and solid build make it a solid choice for many.

Pros
  • Ultra-quiet operation: Produces only 5 dB of noise, perfect for early morning or late-night workouts without disturbing others.
  • Compact design: Space-saving size ideal for smaller home settings.
  • High weight capacity: Supports up to 163kg, ensuring stability for various users.
  • Adjustable features: Fully adjustable seat and handlebars to accommodate different user heights.
  • Easy assembly: 70% pre-assembled, allowing setup in just 25 minutes.
Cons
  • No flywheel weight information: Lack of data on flywheel weight could influence cycling experience.
  • Limited color options: Available only in Black-Blue, which might not appeal to everyone.
vnrutkou Spin Bikes

vnrutkou Spin Bikes

Affordable indoor cycling with quiet operation

Sturdy, reliable and perfect for budget-conscious fitness users, offering a quiet and smooth workout experience.

Check Latest Price
Resistance type: Magnetic
Display / Console: Digital LCD Monitor
Max User Weight(kg): 136kg
Why this made our roundup: This bike's many resistance levels make it ideal for different workout intensities.

The vnrutkou Spin Bike shines with its quiet ride and ample features. The magnetic resistance system is smooth and incredibly quiet. It's perfect for at-home workouts without disturbing others. The adjustable cage pedals are a nice touch, ensuring safety during intense sessions. I find the LCD monitor handy for tracking metrics like heart rate and calories, which helps keep users motivated.

Its sturdy steel frame supports up to 136kg and the seat adjustability accommodates different body types. The belt-driven system adds to the quiet operation and is another plus. The upgraded seat cushion offers great comfort, especially during longer rides.

However, it's not all perfect. Some users mentioned that the bike could benefit from a more sophisticated console. It’s quite basic compared to other models. The lack of built-in app connectivity might be a downside for those who prefer interactive workouts. An option for free expert assembly would also be a welcome addition.

Additionally, the display, while functional, could be more advanced to really stand out in the competitive budget spin bike market.

Compared to other budget spin bikes, the vnrutkou offers excellent build quality with its robust frame and smooth operation. It holds its own with its user-friendly features and substantial user weight capacity.

However, the absence of more advanced tech features could make other models more appealing for tech-savvy users. Yet, the quiet operation and solid construction are hard to beat at this price point.

The vnrutkou Spin Bike is perfect for users who value a quiet, stable ride and solid build quality over high-tech features. It’s ideal for home fitness users looking for a reliable, well-constructed spin bike without breaking the bank.

Pros
  • Quiet operation: The magnetic resistance and belt-driven system provide a smooth and quiet ride.
  • Comfortable seating: The upgraded seat cushion and dense sponge backrest enhance comfort during workouts.
  • Versatile resistance levels: Many resistance options cater to everything from warm-ups to intense sessions.
  • Safety features: Adjustable cage pedals and a quick-stop resistance bar ensure safety during high-speed rides.
  • Digital tracking: The LCD monitor tracks vital workout metrics like heart rate, speed and calories burned.
Cons
  • Flywheel weight not specified: Lack of information on flywheel weight may deter serious cyclists.
  • Pricey assembly service: Expert assembly incurs an additional cost of £90.
PASYOU Exercise Bike

PASYOU Exercise Bike

Great stability for heavier users

Sturdy, reliable indoor bike supporting up to 160kg with adjustable features. Ideal for people looking for a quiet, stable workout at home.

Check Latest Price
Resistance type: Ultra Quiet Magnetic Resistance
Display / Console: LCD Display
Max User Weight(kg): 160
Why this made our roundup: Tip: Use the seat and handlebar adjustments to ensure maximum comfort during workouts.

What we liked:

The PASYOU S40 Exercise Bike is a solid option for those looking for a budget-friendly workout companion. Its standout feature is the ultra-quiet magnetic resistance, ensuring that your exercise sessions are peaceful. With a maximum capacity of 160kg, it caters to a wide range of users. The adjustable handlebars and seat accommodate various heights, making it versatile for users between 150-200 cm tall. This bike is easy to fit into most spaces, thanks to its compact dimensions.

The LCD display is another highlight, offering real-time monitoring of your workout metrics like speed, distance and calories burned. The assembly process is straightforward. Most users find it takes just around 10 minutes to complete.

What we didn't like:

While the PASYOU S40 has many benefits, there are a few areas where it could improve. Some users find the seat uncomfortable, even after adjustments. It may take some time to find the right position. Also, the delivery time can be long if it ships from overseas, so patience might be needed. Lastly, the console display is basic but functional, which might not satisfy users looking for advanced features.

How does it compare to similar spin bikes?

Compared to other budget exercise bikes, the PASYOU S40 holds its ground well. It offers better stability with its 160kg capacity and ultra-quiet operation. While it lacks some advanced features found in pricier models, its sturdy build and adjustable design make it a competitive choice in its category.

The PASYOU S40 is worth considering for budget-conscious users looking for a reliable and quiet exercise bike. It's best for users who prioritize stability and basic monitoring features over high-tech extras. The adjustable design and real-time tracking make it a practical choice for home workouts.

Pros
  • Quiet operation: The rear flywheel design ensures a silent workout environment.
  • Stable structure: Triangular design supports up to 160kg, offering stability for heavier users.
  • Adjustable components: Customizable seat and handlebars accommodate different heights and leg lengths.
  • Real-time monitoring: LCD display tracks time, speed, distance, odometer and calories.
  • Comprehensive support: 24/7 customer service and a one-year warranty provide peace of mind.
Cons
  • Seat comfort: Some users find the seat uncomfortable initially, requiring adjustment.
  • Delivery time: Some reports of extended delivery times, depending on location.
Dripex Exercise Bike

Dripex Exercise Bike

Offers smooth rides with silent operation

Reliable and quiet, ideal for indoor workouts. Perfect for people looking for an affordable, space-saving fitness solution.

Check Latest Price
Resistance type: Magnetic
Flywheel weight(kg): Heavy bidirectional flywheel
Display / Console: LCD
Max User Weight(kg): 149.69kg
Why this made our roundup: Features a heavy flywheel for intense, effective cardio sessions.

What we liked:

The Dripex Exercise Bike D1 offers several features that stand out for budget-conscious users looking for a capable spin bike. One of its main selling points is the smooth and nearly silent ride provided by the 100% Infinite resistance system and belt drive system. It's equipped with a heavy bidirectional flywheel, supporting up to 150kg and providing challenging workouts. The digital monitor tracks useful exercise stats like time, speed, distance, calories and pulse. This is helpful for tracking progress.

The seat and handlebars are adjustable in six different ways, making it adaptable for various heights. Anti-slip pedals improve safety. It also comes with installation tools, which makes assembly easier.

What we didn't like:

One of the downsides is the bike's sturdiness. Some users noted that the handlebars wobble slightly, which might require some extra tinkering to fix. The seat is another issue, as it's not the most comfortable option and might need a replacement for longer sessions.

Additionally, resistance adjustment can be awkward, requiring frequent re-adjustment. The LCD display could be better, as some users find it basic and not very robust.

How does it compare to similar spin bikes?

Compared to other budget spin bikes, the Dripex D1 holds its ground well with its nearly silent operation and adjustable features. However, it might not be as sturdy as some slightly higher-end models. The magnetic resistance mechanism offers a smoother ride and this bike manages well within its price range, providing a solid workout experience for indoor use.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

For those looking for an affordable indoor exercise solution, the Dripex D1 is a solid choice. It's packed with useful features like a heavy flywheel and adjustable settings. While it has some minor drawbacks in comfort and sturdiness, it offers excellent value for money.

Pros
  • Super Smooth & Quiet: Magnetic resistance ensures a silent and smooth ride at home.
  • Adjustable Components: Offers a 6-way adjustable seat and handlebar for various heights.
  • Robust Construction: Supports users up to 149.69kg with a durable frame.
  • Comprehensive Display: LCD console tracks heart rate, speed, distance, calories and time.
  • Convenient Setup: Comes with tools needed for easy assembly and setup.
Cons
  • Basic Console: LCD display may feel cheap and isn't as advanced as premium models.
  • Uncomfortable Seat: Users may need to replace the seat for added comfort.
  • Handlebar Wobble: Some users experience minor instability with the handlebars.

Tips for picking the perfect budget spin bike under £300, £400 or £500

Getting in some extra spin sessions at home can make a massive difference to how much progress you make towards your fitness goals. But not everyone wants to splurge £1500+ on a new Peloton bike.

The question is can you get something close to those bikes for a quarter of the price?

What to look for in a bargain bike?

  • Flywheel weight – A big thing with cheaper indoor cycles is that the flywheel can be on the small side. (Some really cheap bikes have a flywheel weight of around 8kg, whereas something like the Peloton is up to around the 18kg mark). A heavier flywheel makes for a smoother, more challenging ride. If you’re a spinning pro or a bigger, stronger rider you’ll need a heavier flywheel.
  • Upper user limit – Another thing to look for is the weight limit on a spin bike. You can skip this if you’re on the lighter side, or petite, but if you’re over 90kg look for a bike that’s suited to your weight. The lower-priced bikes can have a greatly reduced weight limit so just be wary it’s robust enough and check the max weight.
  • User reviews – Forget about the total number of reviews instead drill down to what people are really saying about the bike you’re thinking about buying. Somewhere between glowing five-star and ranting one-star reviews you’ll get a more true idea of what each budget bike is like, warts ‘n’ all.
  • The kind of resistance – The main two kinds of resistance are the traditional felt brake pad, which offers the highest level of challenge and the more modern magnetic kind, which is silent but offers less of a challenge if you’re an experienced cyclist. Most users will find the magnetic kind perfect for what they want in an indoor home bike.
  • Noisy beast or stealth mode? – Many people are buying spin bikes to use in apartments, or at times when other people in the house are asleep. Noise level is a big factor that’s impossible to judge from anything other than videos, which aren’t always available for each bike. Definitely go for magnetic resistance and belt drive to keep the noise down on your spin bike.

Budget spin bike FAQs

Do cheap spin bikes have uncomfortable seats?

They can, but this is highly subjective. After all, one bum’s bone-jarring seat is another’s acceptable comfort. It’s really hard to gauge this from pics, videos or even user reviews. And this isn’t limited to the lower-priced bikes either! We’ve seen some pretty swanky bikes that would test the toughest of buttocks.

Joking aside, there are steps you can take to get a comfy ride on a cheaper machine. If the worst comes to the worst, it’s a simple job to buy a better quality seat that is comfier.

Padded saddle covers are also a godsend if you’re struggling with a problem seat and are extremely cheap to buy.

Can you really get a decent cheap spin bike?

Yes, don’t write off a spin bike just because it costs under £300 – £400. There are some great heavy-duty indoor bikes available at this price range.

Where are corners cut?

  • The heart rate monitors and calorie counters leave a lot to be desired–  Ultra-basic display that can often have a questionable level of accuracy. The answer is to not rely on these too much.
    Fix this by: Instead, use something like a Fitbit, apple watch, heart rate strap and an app to track your calories, heart rate etc.
  • Online functions – With bikes like NordicTrack and Peloton offering dazzling built-in colour screens, the lowly budget bike often has a simple LCD display with no way to connect to apps.
    Fix this by: You can get some handy shoe sensors that track your cycling progress and can work with Zwift and other apps.

What’s the absolute cheapest spin bike you can buy online?

Come in, shut the door and let’s head down to the real bargain basement. Between you and me, it is possible to get a spin bike for under £100. Obviously, this is a fifteenth the price of a Peloton so there are going to be some concessions made in terms of quality.

But if you’re looking for something that is functional and doesn’t cost the earth, you can still get something in this price range. Homcom’s stationary bike is available at Amazon and falls into this price category. It still has an 8kg flywheel, LCD display and can support users up to 120kg.

What happens if I buy a cheaper bike and something goes wrong?

One thing that’s well worth doing with any bike you buy is to do a bit of detective work and look into the warranty prior to buying it. If you’re shopping for a spin bike on Amazon, which has a good range of bikes under £300, you’re covered by their 30 day returns policy where you can return your bike whether its defective or not. Details here.

User reviews are also another good source of info on how reliable a cheaper bike is and what happened to anyone who had problems. Lots of 1-star reviews where people have had trouble returning a bike scream warning.

Check the product descriptions too – they may offer an extended warranty of one or two years for peace of mind.

Another sneaky test you can do is to send a message to the seller before asking and use their response to gauge whether or not they are helpful and reliable.

Spin bikes of any kind are big, heavy bulky things too. So it’s worth checking who is responsible if it has to be returned due to a fault.

Do I need a mat to go under the bike?

Yes, it’s definitely a good idea to get a rubber mat to go between your spin bike’s stand and your floors. This will protect any surfaces such as wood or carpet. You’ll also get a more stable ride and the bike won’t move around. You can pick them up quite cheap on places like Amazon and CQ’s bycle mat is a really good one to get.

Resources and further reading