Best recumbent exercise bikes in 2025: Comfortable, low-impact workouts at home

Yahoo

15-05-2025

If you have back or joint pain, the idea of spending an hour, or even 30 minutes, on a bike might not sound the most comfortable. Luckily, there are more supportive options for getting your heart pumping. The best recumbent exercise bikes provide added support in the seat and back, allowing users to pedal along comfortably. Plus, many are packed with high-tech features, like large HD touchscreens and impressive sound systems, making getting those 30 to 60 minutes of cardio fly by.
A recumbent bike has a unique look that's easy to identify. 'They are bikes that place the rider in a reclined position with back support,' says Devin Trachman, clinic director and physical therapist at Physical Therapy Central 'The seat on a recumbent bike is typically larger, like a chair with a supportive backrest.'
While a bit bulkier than a standard stationary bike, this design is the key to the benefits of a recumbent one. 'This design provides support for the rider's back and reduces stress on the joints, especially the knees and hips,' says Sarah Pelc Graca, an NASM-certified personal trainer and owner of Strong with Sarah. Another added benefit? "[The design] allows your hands to be free to read or use your mobile device," says Philip Kessel, vice president of athletics and cycle instructor at the Bay Club Company.
As with most pieces of workout equipment, a recumbent bike is an investment. Before spending your hard-earned cash — and lugging a very heavy box to your workout space — make sure to do your research to ensure you choose a bike that fits your exercise goals and health needs. To help you make this decision, Yahoo's editorial team tested several of the most popular options over the course of three months. We also consulted two personal trainers and a physical therapist for their insights into what to look for in an exercise bike. Here are our picks of the three best recumbent bikes in 2025.
Recumbent bikes aren't cheap — or easy to return — so it's essential to find the right one for your needs. Here are the key factors to consider when selecting the best recumbent exercise bike:
Fitness goals and riding preferences: Not all recumbent bikes are built the same. Some are designed for more intense workouts, while others cater to casual exercise or rehabilitation. If you enjoy high-energy workouts, look for a bike with streaming capabilities for instructor-led sessions or an app to guide your training. Resistance levels also play a key role — ensure the bike offers enough challenge to match your fitness level and goals.
Physical limitations and health conditions: Recumbent bikes are generally considered safe for most users, but if you have specific health conditions or physical limitations, consult your doctor before making a purchase. These bikes can be particularly beneficial for individuals with joint issues or those recovering from injury due to their low-impact design.
Type of bike: While most recumbent bikes are stationary and designed for indoor use, there are outdoor options available. Stationary models are often better suited for individuals with balance or mobility challenges, thanks to their sturdy construction and added stability features.
Type of resistance: Resistance mechanisms differ among recumbent bikes. Magnetic resistance, the most common, uses magnets to adjust difficulty levels and offers a smooth and quiet ride. Alternatively, air resistance relies on a fan to increase resistance as you pedal harder, providing a more dynamic workout experience.
Comfort features: Comfort is critical for longer workouts. Look for a bike with a well-padded seat and supportive backrest. Handlebars next to the seat can add stability, while features like water bottle holders and built-in fans enhance convenience. Be sure to check product details to confirm these extras are included if they're important to you.
Connectivity and display: Recumbent bikes vary widely in terms of tech features. Some include HD touchscreens for streaming workouts, while others have simple LCD displays. Most models offer built-in workout programs, but higher-end options may allow you to access guided workouts through apps, either on the bike or on your own device.
Budget and value: Determine what features you'll actually use to determine the best value. If streaming workouts or advanced tech features matter to you, investing in a pricier model may be worth it. However, even lower-priced bikes can provide a solid workout — just without as many bells and whistles.
Available space and storage: Before purchasing, measure your intended workout area carefully. Leave enough space around the bike to get on and off comfortably and to pedal freely. If space is limited, consider a bike with wheels for easier maneuverability, though the bike's weight impacts how practical this is.
The Yahoo editorial team conducted an in-depth analysis of the market's most popular recumbent bike models before narrowing down the selection for hands-on testing. Over three months, we rigorously tested several bikes, evaluating factors like ease of assembly, design, comfort, support, adjustability and smoothness of the ride. We also examined additional features, including streaming services, built-in workout programs, cup holders and phone trays, to assess each bike's overall value and convenience.
Expert insights played a crucial role in the selection process. Two personal trainers and a physical therapist provided guidance on what to look for in a quality recumbent bike. Furthermore, this article's author, Korin Miller, is a health journalist and former competitive athlete with years of experience using and testing exercise bikes at home, bringing both expertise and personal perspective to the selection process.
For more options, head on over to our list of the best workout bikes. Our in-house team put 15 stationary bikes to the test — see which ones came out on top.
In addition to the four bikes that made our list, we also tested the SOLE R92 recumbent exercise bike. This gym-quality bike would make a solid choice for anyone who's willing to spend a little more for a sturdy recumbent bike that has features similar to what you might find at a commercial exercise facility. That said, at just shy of $1,300, it costs almost as much as the NordicTrack New 10 but doesn't have an integrated screen or streaming workout and entertainment options. And it has a lower weight capacity and similar built-in workout features as the Horizon Fitness 5.0R, which costs almost $700 less. However, it's worth noting that our tester really liked the built-in programs and the fact that the SOLE+ app is free and offers hundreds of workouts you can stream to your own tablet or phone. With the bike's built-in tablet holder (and a USB charging port to keep your device powered), it's easy to follow along with these routines. For anyone who wants streaming workouts but doesn't want the ongoing cost of a fitness subscription (like NordicTrack's iFit program), this may be the best choice.
The advantages of using a recumbent bike go beyond comfort. 'People with back, neck, shoulder, hip and knee pain may prefer a recumbent bike to an upright bike for its benefits, including reclined positioning, leg placement that extends forward, supportive backrest and larger seat,' says Trachman. This ergonomic design reduces strain on the body, making it a great option for those with joint or mobility issues.
Additionally, recumbent bikes require less pressure on the wrists and hands, making them more accessible for riders who might find upright bikes uncomfortable. Another perk? The seated position frees up your hands, allowing you to read, scroll through your device or even catch up on emails while getting your cardio in — ideal for multitaskers.
Is a recumbent bike good for back pain?
If you struggle with back pain, it's a good idea to consult with a doctor before purchasing a recumbent bike. However, these bikes are generally considered suitable. 'The ergonomic design of recumbent bikes offers excellent lumbar support, which can reduce strain on the lower back,' Graca notes. This supportive design makes them particularly beneficial for people with chronic lower back issues or those prone to back pain, providing a more comfortable and accessible way to stay active.
Recumbent bikes focus on strengthening the lower body, engaging key muscles like the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes and calves, according to Graca. 'This can lead to improved lower body strength and endurance over time,' she notes.
But the benefits don't stop there. 'Pedaling movements originate from your core,' Kessel says, meaning your abs, obliques and hip flexors also get a workout. This full engagement makes recumbent bikes an excellent option for both building strength and enhancing endurance in a low-impact manner.
The ideal console depends on your workout preferences. If you plan to watch TV or read while biking, a basic console that tracks key metrics like distance, calories burned and resistance levels might be all you need.
For a more interactive experience, consider an HD console with the ability to stream workouts or connect to fitness apps. These features can make your sessions more engaging and motivating. Ultimately, think about how you'll use the bike and choose a console that aligns with your exercise goals and lifestyle.
Philip Kessel, vice president of athletics and cycle instructor at the Bay Club Company
Sarah Pelc Graca, a NASM-certified personal trainer and owner of Strong with Sarah
Devin Trachman, clinic director and physical therapist at Physical Therapy Central
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.