Best Recumbent Bikes to Buy (Complete Buying Guide)

I’ve been working from home for over 15 years, and one thing I’ve learned the hard way is that sitting all day wrecks your body. Treadmills are loud, upright bikes kill your back, and most gym equipment takes up half a room. That’s why I kept coming back to recumbent bikes.

A recumbent bike lets you pedal in a reclined position with full back support. You’re not hunching over handlebars. You’re not putting pressure on your wrists, neck, or lower back. You just sit back and pedal. I’ve recommended them to friends recovering from knee surgeries, parents looking for low-impact cardio, and even a 72-year-old uncle who wanted to stay active without risking a fall.

The bikes on this list range from $150 to $750. I picked them based on build quality, resistance levels, comfort, user ratings, and how well they hold up after months of daily use. If you want a solid cardio workout at home without beating up your joints, one of these will work.

Best Recumbent Bikes in 2026

I put this list together after researching dozens of recumbent bikes, reading thousands of customer reviews on Amazon and Reddit, and comparing specs that matter for daily home use: resistance range, weight capacity, seat comfort, noise level, and build quality. These aren’t ranked in strict order because the right bike depends on your budget, body size, and how you plan to use it.

• Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike
• Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike
• Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Bike
• YOSUDA PRO Recumbent Exercise Bike
• Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike
• Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike
• Nautilus R616 Recumbent Bike
• LANOS 2-in-1 Folding Recumbent Bike

Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike

The Schwinn 290 is the bike I’d pick if budget isn’t a major concern. 25 resistance levels is a lot for a home recumbent, and you won’t outgrow it in six months like you would with an 8-level bike. The 7-inch LCD is readable from any angle, and the Bluetooth speakers are a nice bonus for podcasts or music during long sessions.

What sold me on this model is the JRNY and Zwift app support. Virtual rides make indoor cycling less boring, and the guided workouts push you harder than you’d push yourself. The padded, ventilated seat handles 60-minute sessions without any discomfort. At 330 lbs weight capacity with a 10-year frame warranty, this bike is built to last.

The only downside? It’s not cheap. But if you’re serious about using a recumbent bike 4-5 days a week, the Schwinn 290 gives you the resistance range and build quality to keep up with your progress.

Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike

The Marcy ME-709 has over 15,000 reviews on Amazon and stays consistently rated around 4.2 stars. For a bike that costs under $200, that kind of track record matters. You know what you’re getting.

The 14-gauge steel frame feels sturdy, not flimsy like some budget bikes that wobble after a few weeks. The magnetic resistance is quiet enough to use while watching TV, and the step-through design makes it easy to get on and off, which is a bigger deal than people realize (especially for older users or anyone with mobility issues).

Eight resistance levels won’t satisfy advanced athletes, but for general fitness and weight loss, it’s enough. The seat has decent padding, the pedal straps keep your feet secure, and the transport wheels let you roll it out of the way when you’re done. This is the bike I recommend when someone says they want to start exercising at home without spending a lot. Simple, durable, and it works.

Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Bike

Sunny Health & Fitness is one of the biggest names in affordable home gym equipment, and this recumbent bike shows why. You get 16 resistance levels, which is double what most budget bikes offer. That matters because you’ll plateau on an 8-level bike within a couple of months.

The standout feature is the included resistance bands. You can work your arms and shoulders while pedaling, turning a lower-body workout into a full-body session. The SunnyFit app adds guided workouts if you need structure. The pulse rate sensors on the handlebars give you real-time heart rate data without needing a separate tracker.

At 54 inches long and 26 inches wide, this bike has a smaller footprint than most recumbents. If your workout area is a corner of the living room or a bedroom, that compact size matters. The quick-adjust seat lever lets you change position without getting off the bike. For the money, this is one of the better mid-range options that gives you room to grow.

YOSUDA PRO Recumbent Exercise Bike

If noise is a concern, the YOSUDA PRO should be at the top of your list. Their patented magnetic resistance system runs at about 15dB, which is quieter than a whisper. I’d recommend this for anyone cycling early in the morning, in an apartment, or in a room next to a sleeping kid.

The 350 lb weight capacity is higher than most bikes in this price range. The seat and backrest use high-density padding that doesn’t compress flat after a few months. And like the Sunny Health model, it comes with detachable resistance bands so you can work your upper body while pedaling.

YOSUDA’s smart app gives you workout data and guided programs. The bike accommodates users up to 6’5″, which is rare in this category. Most recumbent bikes top out around 6’1″ to 6’2″, so taller riders often end up with their knees hitting the console. Not an issue here. For a mid-range bike with solid noise control and a generous weight limit, this one delivers.

Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike

Space is the number one reason people skip buying exercise equipment. The Exerpeutic 400XL solves that by folding to roughly half its size. When you’re done, fold it up, roll it to a corner or closet, and your room is yours again. At 39 lbs, it’s light enough to move without help.

The V-belt double-drive transmission keeps things quiet, and the precision-balanced flywheel gives you a smooth pedal stroke. Eight magnetic resistance levels are enough for light to moderate workouts. The seat and backrest adjust to fit riders from 5’2″ to 6’2″, and the 300 lb weight capacity means it’s built for real-world use.

You won’t get app connectivity or 25 resistance levels here. This is a no-frills bike built for people with limited space who still want consistent cardio at home. If you live in a small apartment or share a room, this is the one to get. It also works well as a secondary bike, like having something in a guest room or home office for quick 20-minute sessions between work blocks.

Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike

The Schwinn 230 is the 290’s younger sibling. You lose a few resistance levels (16 vs. 25) and the display is smaller (5.5 inches vs. 7 inches), but the core experience is the same: smooth magnetic resistance, a solid steel frame, and Schwinn’s 10-year frame warranty.

The 13 built-in programs cover everything from fat burn to interval training to heart rate control. The ventilated seat with lumbar support keeps you comfortable during 45-60 minute sessions. You also get a media ledge, USB charging, and built-in speakers, so you can prop up a tablet and watch something while you ride.

I’d recommend the 230 over the 290 if you’re on a tighter budget and don’t need Zwift or JRNY app support. For most home users doing 30-45 minute sessions a few times a week, 16 resistance levels is plenty. The Schwinn name carries real weight here because their parts and warranty support are consistent. If something breaks in year two, you’re covered.

Nautilus R616 Recumbent Bike

The Nautilus R616 packs 29 workout programs, which is more than any other bike on this list. If you get bored doing the same routine every day, this variety keeps things fresh. You get interval programs, heart rate programs, custom programs, and fitness test programs all built into the console.

The 25 resistance levels match the Schwinn 290, and the DualTrack LCD display gives you two screens to track your stats. The built-in 3-speed cooling fan is a small touch that makes a real difference during intense sessions. You also get an MP3 input, USB charging, and Bluetooth for connecting to the Nautilus Trainer app and Explore the World for virtual rides.

The seat sits on a sliding rail, so adjusting it is quick and smooth. Nautilus backs this with a 10-year frame warranty, 3-year parts warranty, and 1-year labor warranty, which is better parts coverage than Schwinn offers. If you want the most workout variety in a single machine without paying for a subscription, the R616 is a strong pick. It’s the bike for people who hate repetition. Also check out our list of fitness trackers to pair with your workout routine.

LANOS 2-in-1 Folding Recumbent Bike

The LANOS is a 2-in-1 that converts between recumbent and upright cycling positions. If you’re not sure which style you prefer, or if you want to switch things up between sessions, this gives you both options in one machine.

It folds flat for storage, which puts it in the same category as the Exerpeutic for small-space living. But the height range is wider: 4’5″ to 6’5″, so it works for a wider range of body types. The 10 resistance levels fall between the Exerpeutic’s 8 and the Sunny Health’s 16.

I’ll be honest about the trade-off here. The seat on the LANOS isn’t as padded as a dedicated recumbent bike. Some users report it gets uncomfortable after 30+ minutes. If you’re planning hour-long sessions, you’re better off with the Marcy or Schwinn. But for 20-30 minute daily rides where you also want the option to go upright, the LANOS gives you flexibility that single-purpose bikes don’t.

What is a recumbent bike?

A recumbent bike is an exercise bike that puts you in a reclined position instead of sitting upright. The seat is larger, lower, and has a backrest. The pedals are in front of you instead of below you. That changes the entire dynamics of the workout.

Since you’re leaning back, your weight is distributed across your back and hips instead of being concentrated on your sit bones. Your hands are free. Your lower back is supported. You can read, watch TV, or scroll through your phone while pedaling. That sounds lazy, but it’s actually practical. You’ll stay on the bike longer when you’re comfortable, and longer sessions mean more calories burned.

Recumbent bikes target the same muscle groups as upright bikes: quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves. But the reclined angle puts slightly more emphasis on the glutes and hamstrings. Some studies suggest recumbent bikes activate more muscle groups than upright ones, though the difference is modest.

Recumbent bike vs. upright bike

This comes up in every fitness forum, so I’ll break it down. Both burn calories and improve cardiovascular health. The main difference is body position and what that means for comfort and joint stress.

Recumbent bikes	Upright bikes
Reclined body position with full back support	Upright position, limited back support
Larger, padded seat with backrest	Smaller seat, similar to road bikes
Pedals in front of the body	Pedals below the body
Lower impact on joints, back, and wrists	More strain on wrists, back, and neck
Better for long sessions and recovery	Better for intense, short workouts
Hands-free cycling possible	Hands need to stay on handlebars
Takes up more floor space	Smaller footprint

For weight loss, they’re similar. The calories you burn depend more on your effort, duration, and resistance level than on the bike type. An upright bike might burn slightly more per hour because you’re engaging your core and upper body to stay balanced. But a recumbent bike lets you ride longer because it’s more comfortable. Over a week, the person who rides 45 minutes on a recumbent will outburn the person who quits at 20 minutes on an upright because their back hurts.

My take: if you have back pain, joint issues, or you’re over 50, go recumbent. If you’re young, fit, and want maximum calorie burn in 20 minutes, upright is fine. For most home users, recumbent wins on consistency because you’ll actually use it.

Benefits of recumbent bikes

I’ve had people tell me recumbent bikes are “too easy.” They’re wrong. You can get a serious workout on a recumbent bike at higher resistance levels. But the real advantages go beyond just burning calories.

Easier on your back and joints

This is the biggest selling point. The reclined position spreads your weight across your back and hips instead of loading everything onto your spine. Your knees and ankles take less impact because you’re not pushing your full body weight downward. If you’ve had knee surgery, lower back issues, or arthritis, a recumbent bike lets you exercise without making things worse.

Safe for all fitness levels

The low seat height makes getting on and off easy. You can’t stand on the pedals (which is a common cause of upright bike injuries). The stable seating position means there’s almost no risk of falling. This makes recumbent bikes ideal for seniors, people recovering from injuries, and beginners who might feel intimidated by other gym equipment.

Comfortable enough for long sessions

Comfort isn’t a luxury with exercise equipment. It’s the reason you’ll keep using it or let it collect dust. Recumbent bikes have wider, padded seats with back support. You can cycle for 45-60 minutes while watching a show without any discomfort. Try that on an upright bike’s tiny saddle.

Hands-free multitasking

Your hands don’t need to grip handlebars for balance. You can read a book, use your phone, hold a cup of coffee, or work on a laptop while pedaling. I know people who take conference calls while riding their recumbent bike. That’s 30 minutes of cardio they’d otherwise skip on a busy day. If you’re setting up a productive workspace, check out our home office setup guide.

Solid cardiovascular workout

Recumbent bikes engage your quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves. These are large muscle groups, so your heart and lungs have to work hard to supply them with oxygen. Regular cycling on a recumbent bike lowers blood pressure, improves heart function, and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week, and a recumbent bike can get you there without destroying your knees.

Who should use a recumbent bike?

Recumbent bikes work for most people, but they’re a particularly good fit for a few groups.

People with back pain: The reclined position and lumbar support take pressure off your spine. If upright bikes or treadmills aggravate your lower back, switch to a recumbent.

Seniors and older adults: The low seat, easy mount/dismount, and stable design make these bikes safe for people with balance or mobility issues. The risk of falling is near zero.

People recovering from injuries: Physical therapists regularly recommend recumbent bikes for rehab. The low-impact, controlled motion helps rebuild strength in your legs without stressing healing joints.

Overweight individuals: Higher weight capacities (300-350 lbs on most models) and the seated position make recumbent bikes more comfortable and practical than treadmills or upright bikes for heavier users.

Pregnant women: Indoor cycling on a recumbent bike gives you aerobic exercise without the balance risks of riding outdoors or standing on pedals. Most doctors clear recumbent bike exercise during normal pregnancies.

Desk workers: If you sit at a computer 8+ hours a day, you already know what that does to your body. A recumbent bike lets you get in cardio while still being gentle on the back and hips that are already overworked from sitting. For more on building a good home office setup, I’ve written a separate guide.

How to choose a recumbent bike

I’ve seen people buy based on price alone and regret it within weeks. Here’s what you should actually look at before picking one.

Resistance levels determine how far the bike will take you. An 8-level bike is fine for beginners and light use. But if you plan to ride 4-5 times a week, you’ll want at least 16 levels so you have room to increase intensity as you get stronger. The Schwinn 290 and Nautilus R616 offer 25 levels, which is enough for serious training.

Weight capacity isn’t just about whether the bike can hold you. A bike rated for 300 lbs will feel sturdier for a 200 lb rider than one rated for 250 lbs. Always buy with at least a 50-75 lb buffer above your weight. If you’re over 300 lbs, the YOSUDA PRO at 350 lbs is your safest option on this list.

Seat quality matters more than any spec on paper. A cheap seat will make you dread every session. Look for bikes with padded, ventilated seats and adjustable backrests. If possible, check customer reviews specifically about long-session comfort.

Size and footprint catch people off guard. A full-size recumbent bike takes up roughly 55-66 inches of floor space. Measure your workout area before buying. If space is tight, go with a folding model like the Exerpeutic 400XL or LANOS.

Noise level is important if you live in an apartment, have young kids, or exercise early in the morning. Magnetic resistance bikes are quieter than friction-based ones. Every bike on this list uses magnetic resistance, but the YOSUDA PRO is the quietest at 15dB.

App connectivity is worth considering if you like guided workouts or tracking your progress over time. The Schwinn 290 (JRNY, Zwift), Nautilus R616 (Explore the World), and YOSUDA PRO all offer app support. If you don’t care about apps, save money and go with the Marcy ME-709 or Exerpeutic 400XL.

If you’re also setting up a comfortable workspace alongside your workout area, take a look at our picks for budget ergonomic chairs and gaming recliner chairs.

Safety tips for recumbent bikes

Recumbent bikes are among the safest exercise equipment you can use at home, but a few common mistakes can still cause problems.

Adjust the seat before every session. If someone else used the bike, the seat position might be off. Pedaling with the wrong seat distance causes knee strain. Your legs should be almost fully extended at the bottom of the pedal stroke, with a slight bend at the knee.

Start with low resistance. I’ve seen beginners jump to level 10 on their first day and end up with sore knees. Start at level 3-4 and work up over a few weeks. Your muscles and joints need time to adapt.

Don’t skip warm-ups. Pedal for 3-5 minutes at low resistance before increasing intensity. This gets blood flowing to your muscles and loosens your joints.

Stay hydrated. Just because you’re seated comfortably doesn’t mean you’re not sweating. Keep a water bottle within reach, especially during 30+ minute sessions.

Check with your doctor first if you have blood pressure issues, heart conditions, or recent surgeries. A recumbent bike is low-impact, but any new exercise program deserves a medical green light.

Which recumbent bike should you buy?

If I had to pick one, it would be the Schwinn 290 for most people. The 25 resistance levels, app support, and 10-year warranty make it the best long-term investment. You won’t outgrow it.

If you’re on a budget, the Marcy ME-709 under $200 is hard to beat. It’s been a bestseller for years for a reason.

If space is your main constraint, the Exerpeutic 400XL folds flat and weighs just 39 lbs. And if noise matters, the YOSUDA PRO at 15dB is quieter than anything else on this list.

Whatever you pick, the most important thing is consistency. A $150 bike used four times a week beats a $700 bike that sits in the corner. Pick the one that fits your budget, space, and lifestyle, then actually use it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Disclaimer: This site is reader‑supported. If you buy through some links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools I trust and would use myself. Your support helps keep gauravtiwari.org free and focused on real-world advice. Thanks. — Gaurav Tiwari