The 10 Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes For A Low-Impact Workout That's Easier On Joints

The popular design is surprisingly affordable for all that it offers—especially when you consider the bike has earned more than 9,000 ratings. Best described as the "Peloton" of recumbent bikes, this sleek design boasts a sturdy frame with a magnetic resistance belt offering 25 resistance levels. Most importantly, it offers a step-through mount that won't require users to lift their legs too high when setting up on the bike—making it a great pick for seniors.

Plus, the design boasts plenty of unique tech features that make it worth the extra cash. Along with Bluetooth accessibility, the frame has both a USB port to recharge your devices and built-in speakers to follow along with classes. Even better, the bike is VR compatible for an immersive workout that takes riders on epic bike rides around the world. One word of warning, however, is that the seat is not adjustable, meaning it is not a good option for riders of shorter heights.

This is undoubtedly the Peloton of recumbent bikes, thanks to iFIT classes and workouts that range from interval biking and bootcamp to cross-training and yoga. With the instructors controlling the resistance of your bike remotely during the program, you'd be hard-pressed to find a difference between this equipment and an IRL class (except the lack of sweat flying from your bike neighbor).

Plus, the trusted brand comes through with a 14-inch LCD screen to show scenery across the globe, with Google Maps literally enabling you to cycle anywhere. Truth be told, this is our must-have due to its compact construction, back-supporting build, and dynamic design that brings the feeling of group workout classes into your home.

Lack of space has been one of the biggest apprehensions for many people exploring home gym equipment, but this foldable pick proves the perfect alternative. It weighs just 43 pounds, allowing you to fold and stash the equipment once your workout is complete.

Already trusted by more than 2,300 reviewers who gave it a perfect rating, the sleek pick offers eight resistance levels, as well as a small LCD screen to track distance, calories, speed, and heart rate. The oversize seat is often described by shoppers as "padded and comfortable." Many shoppers also confirm it's the perfect height to use with an adjustable work desk.

What this bike lacks in fancy bells and whistles (no VR or workout glasses) it makes up for in functionality. It boasts a plush, foam-padded seat for a comfortable sprawl, as well as adjustable seat height that allows users to find the optimal cycling position for them. Additionally, the equipment has handles by the LCD display screen and along the undercarriage of the seat, giving users the opportunity to skip a hunched-over position on days when their core muscles need a break or their back is feeling strange.

The low-profile pick also offers 24 magnetic resistance levels, as well as 23 workout programs, making this hidden gem the best bang for your buck in the under $500 price bracket. Thanks to its cordless design and transport wheels, it can be used wherever you like—in front of the television, perhaps—and then wheeled back and out of the way.

Most recumbent bikes that offer arm workouts are simply cross-trainers, which means you can't use the two components of the bike separately. This Sunny Health & Fitness model features an independently operating arm workout with adjustable weight resistance for your shoulders and forearms—meaning you truly get a 2-for-1 device.

When it comes to the leg workout, you'll still get plenty of pushback from three magetic resistance levels. Simply adjust the bike horizontally to your optimal height, step through to find your seat, and slip your feet into the adjustable pedal straps. The LCD display will track your speed, distance, calories, and time spent pedaling during your workout.

Although not the most compact pick, the equipment weighs less than 100 pounds and has wheels for easy transport. It also has floor stabilizers that allow you to adjust the frame to ensure a steady cycling surface.

Don't let people on upright exercise bikes have all the fun! You can still have top-of-the-line tech with a recumbent bike—and this ProForm design is proof. It features a 10-inch touchscreen with an ever-growing library of workout videos. Currently, the device is loaded with thousands of workouts, as well as automated tech that allows your bike to automatically adjust resistance in a workout based on an instructor's programmed course. Of course, you can always go for the class experience by connecting an iFit account, which gives you access to live classes and streaming (free for 30 days, paid after).

Naturally, the actual specs of the equipment are equally important, and this C10R model has plenty. For comfortable workouts for all heights, the seat adjusts both vertically and horizontally. There are handlebars placed next to the seat, as well as alongside the 10-inch LCD monitor to allow you to adjust positioning based on your body's needs that day.

While multiple models on this list boast compact designs, such as the Marcy Pro and the ProForm, consider this the premium version for a long-term investment in your home gym. Along with 20 resistance levels via quiet, magnetic resistance, riders can take part in 10 different programs on the adjustable seat—or countless more if they subscribe to Sole STUDIO. It also comes with a lifetime warranty on its frame and three-year warranties for parts and electronics, making it well worth the investment in your home gym.

Most exercise bikes on this list cap out at a 350-pound weight limit, but this high-end pick supports up to 400 pounds. We'll note that it is pricey—an unfortunate downside for the most inclusive design—but it offers plenty of perks for this premium price point.

The adjustable seat reclines backward to provide more room for a wider range of bodies, and the seat itself offers extra lumbar support and armrests. The step-through design is also easy to mount, making it a valid option for those with back pain. It also features self-generating power, which means you can skip clumsy cords for a cleaner look. Beginners will also love that it comes packed with 34 exercise programs to help lead the way through the workout. All this comes with a 10-year warranty on its frame and a two-year warranty on parts.

For many, the swap from an upright stationary exercise bike to a recumbent one is all about reducing tension in the back, neck, and shoulders. This affordable pick meets those needs and more with a patented 3-inch-thick AirSoft molded seat cushion, which features air chambers to keep you cool and comfortable.

Along with an LCD touchscreen, it features a built-in tablet holder for your smart devices. Use the Bluetooth-enabled technology to connect to fitness apps, tracking your output as you power through 24 magnetic resistance levels.

That being said, if you fell in love with another option on this list, you can always buy set covers with additional lumbar support.

Recumbent exercise bikes are often bulky and far from aesthetically pleasing, but this luxurious design puts all others to shame (even Peloton). Slim, elegant, and beautiful, this Italian bike is more like artwork than cardio equipment, making it a piece you won't mind showing off in your living room.

Aside from the hefty price tag, this bike meets the must-have standards of any high-end recumbent bike: an adjustable seat, built-in workouts (both indoor and outdoor), and a 15.6-inch LCD screen for streaming live classes or entertainment. One of our favorite perks? You can even sync this bike to your wearable fitness device.