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The best recumbent exercise bikes offer a step-through design, supportive backrests, and of course, low-impact workouts. Because of these factors, recumbent bikes are ideal for older adults, beginner exercisers, or folks recovering from lower body injuries.
We understand that recumbent bikes are not everyone’s cup of tea when it comes to cardiovascular fitness and weight loss. We also know that it’s easy to spend a lot of money on fitness equipment. That said, we’ve picked the six best budget recumbent bikes so you can get right to cycling and keep money in your pocket.
When it comes to budget-conscious purchases, our team of expert product testers here at GGR knows a thing or two about the headaches that often come with cheap equipment. However, we’ve vetted all of the recumbent exercise bikes on this list and we’re confident that these inexpensive bikes will have you pedaling on the regular without buyer’s remorse.
In addition to testing dozens of stationary bikes, we’re also a group of fitness professionals including CrossFit Level 1 Trainers, nutrition coaches, Olympic athletes, and certified personal trainers. Our collective experience in the industry and testing equipment helps us write unbiased reviews so you can make purchases to enhance your at-home workouts. We look at more than 12 different factors when evaluating recumbent bikes, including:
- Footprint
- Comfort
- Durability
- Portability
- Special features
RELATED: How to Program Your Own Workouts
6 Best Budget Recumbent Bikes
- Best Budget Recumbent Bike Overall: Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Bike
- Best Hybrid Budget Recumbent Bike: ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT
- Best Budget Folding Recumbent Bike: Lanos 2-in-1 Bike
- Best Lightweight Budget Recumbent Bike: Sunny Health & Fitness Essential Recumbent Bike
- Best Durable Budget Recumbent Bike: Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike
Best Budget Recumbent Bike Overall: Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Bike
Good for: Folks looking for a budget-friendly, sturdy machine with built-in workouts
Best Under $200
Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike
Product Highlights
- Recumbent exercise bike
- 8 silent magnetic resistance levels
- Step-through frame
- LCD display to track time, distance, calories burned, and speed
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Step-through frame design
- LCD display
- Weighted counter-balanced pedals
- Free shipping
Cons
- Reviewers complain of uncomfortable seat
- Only 8 levels of resistance
- Short 2-year warranty
- Limited reviews
- Customers share it is difficult to change seat distance
Bottom Line
The Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Bike is a basic, affordable machine best for beginners.
The Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Bike is a popular and sturdy indoor exercise bike from the budget-conscious brand. Plus, for under $200 you’re getting a lot of value, including a heavy weight capacity, comfortable seat and backrest, and a lightweight bike that’s easy to move.
A 300-pound weight capacity is what we look for in most exercise bikes, and that’s exactly what you get from this affordable recumbent bike. It has magnetic resistance and a weighted flywheel, though they don’t specify how heavy it is. Still, our testers and other customer reviewers said it felt stable while in use so we’re going to give it a 3.5 out of 5 (we took off some points because there’s a lot of plastic)
If you decide to click the add to cart button on this bike, you’ll like knowing it’s lightweight, easy to assemble, and does not require power because the magnetic resistance levels can be changed with a manual knob. That said, you will need a pair of AA batteries to power up the simple LCD backlit screen.
GGR founder Coop Mitchell took the Marcy ME-709 for a test ride and reports this budget bike is actually high-quality and solid for the under $200 price point. That said, Coop notes that because the bike doesn’t offer a ton of resistance (8 levels of magnetic resistance, to be exact) it’s ideal for beginner exercisers.
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“For someone discovering if this is an activity they’ll stick to, I think the Marcy recumbent is a good starter bike,” says Coop.
In addition to beginners, older adults can benefit from exercise with a recumbent bike due to a number of factors including high-density foam padded backrest, a walk-through design, and handlebars on either side of the saddle. These bike features make it easy for folks to get on and off the bike when mobility is an issue.
If you’re curious about this exercise bike under $200, read our thoughts in the Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike review.
| Footprint | 58″ L x 20″ W x 38” H |
| Resistance | 8 levels of magnetic resistance |
| Weight Capacity | 300 lbs |
| Warranty | 2-year limited warranty |
Best Hybrid Budget Recumbent Bike: ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT
Good for: Anyone who wants a machine that can do more than just cycle
Best Hybrid
ProForm Hybrid Trainer
Product Highlights
- Easily adjusted to fit different body sizes
- 14 preset workouts
- Ability to work upper and lower body muscle groups
- Simple assembly
- Priced under $1,000
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 2-in-1 low impact cardio machine
- Affordable at well under $1,000
- Adjustable screen for viewing while on the elliptical or bike
- Interactive programming with iFIT
Cons
- 15-inch elliptical stride may be uncomfortable for taller users
- Storing machine in non-climate-controlled spaces voids the warranty
- Some returns could incur a $250 fee
Bottom Line
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT offers up a recumbent exercise bike and elliptical in one piece of equipment.
The ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT is designed for folks on a budget who also can’t decide between a recumbent bike and an elliptical trainer. Fortunately, the Hybrid Trainer XT has it all with a seamless transition from bike pedaling to elliptical pedaling—all for under $600.
GGR’s head of content, Kate Meier, tested the Hybrid Trainer XT and did not expect to enjoy it saying, “it’s pretty basic but once you get moving, you might be pleasantly surprised like I was.”
Although Kate, a certified personal trainer, likes the XT more than she anticipated, she does note this machine will be suitable if you’re someone looking to burn calories and increase your heart rate—this is not the machine for avid cyclists or folks training for a cycling event.
This ProForm machine is also iFIT-enabled via a Bluetooth connection, which means you’ll have access to thousands of on-demand workout programs (including five of the best iFIT workouts). You’ll have to use your own device for this function but there is a tablet holder that won’t cover the basic metric, which is a nice bonus.
Once you’re connected to iFIT you can take advantage of automatic trainer control so you can have a hands-free experience when you follow along with a bike ride or elliptical session. iFIT also has hundreds of live and on-demand classes to keep you motivated, which is why we always give it a 5 out of 5 for dynamic programming.
To read more about Kate’s experience with this machine, check out our in-depth ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT review.
| Footprint | 60.5” H x 24.5″ W x 70.5″ D |
| Resistance | 16 levels of digital magnetic resistance |
| Weight Capacity | 250 lbs |
| Warranty | 5-year frame, 1-year parts and labor |
Best Budget Folding Recumbent Bike: Lanos-2-in-1 Bike
Good for: Folks looking for an affordable recumbent bike that also folds away for easy storage
Best Folding Recumbent Bike
Lanos 2-in-1 Bike
Product Highlights
- Can be used as an upright or recumbent exercise bike
- Under $200
- 300-pound weight capacity
- Magnetic resistance
- Lightweight
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Heavy 300-pound weight capacity
- Maintenance-free magnetic resistance
- Steel frame
- No tools needed for assembly
Cons
- Small backrest
Bottom Line
The Lanos 2-in-1 Bike is a compact and lightweight piece of exercise equipment meant for the casual biker.
While we haven’t used the Lanos 2-in-1 Bike, several of our testers have used bikes like it that can be used as an upright or recumbent-style exercise bike and be folded for easy storage. Although we haven’t tried it ourselves, it has more than 5,200 5-star reviews from those in apartments or compact home gyms.
The folding mechanism is easy to use by pulling the safety pin out of the frame and bringing the uprights together. And although it’s lightweight, you won’t have to strain when it’s time to stow away with its transport wheels to make rolling it into a closet easy. Even without having our hands on it, we’re confident in giving it a 5 out of 5 for portability.
We like this foldable bike because it’s lightweight and portable yet supports a maximum user weight of 300 pounds. It has a alloy steel frame and magnetic resistance, bumping it up to a 4 out of 5 for durability. A 5 out of 5 requires having a flywheel that’s at least 30 pounds, and while the flywheel weight isn’t listed for this product we’re confident it’s not that heavy just based on the price.
The simple LCD screen shows your metrics like distance, time, calories, and pace. You will also be able to track your heart rate with the built-in pulse grip sensors on the handlebars flanking the bike saddle.
It’s also worth noting that this padded seat is considered “semi-recumbent” because of its upright posture versus a traditional reclined position. That said, you can take advantage of this position and use this under your desk (if you have adjustable height options).
| Footprint | 26.5″ D x 19.5″ W x 47″ H |
| Resistance | Magnetic |
| Weight Capacity | 300 lbs |
| Warranty | N/A |
Best Lightweight Budget Recumbent Bike: Sunny Health and Fitness Essential Recumbent Bike
Good for: Anyone looking for a basic exercise bike that won’t break the bank
Best Lightweight
Sunny Health And Fitness Essential Recumbent Exercise Bike
Product Highlights
- Just under $300
- Easily adjust the seat, foot pedals, and resistance levels
- Easy to mount and dismount
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Under $300
- User weight capacity of 300 lbs
- Adjustable seat
- 8 levels of resistance
- Pulse sensors
- Transport wheels
Cons
- Second set of handlebars are short
- Lacks a bottle holder
- No device holder
Bottom Line
For under $300, the Sunny Health and Fitness Essential Recumbent Exercise Bike is an excellent option for beginners on a budget.
The Sunny Health and Fitness Essential Recumbent Bike is a lightweight piece of exercise equipment built with comfort in mind. It only weighs 58.7 pounds and takes up about 4 feet by 2 feet, so it earns a 5 out of 5 for footprint and portability.
Despite its lightweight frame, this bike can support up to 300 pounds and offers a wide, cushioned seat with lumbar support. We tested this by placing someone who weighs around 275 pounds on the bike, and there was no shaking with them or any of our other testers. We’re rating the durability a 4 out of 5 because we’re unsure of the flywheel’s weight (the heavier, the more durable).
You’ll notice when shopping for this bike, you’ll have the option between the smart bike or the standard bike, both roughly around the $300 price point. The smart bike has Bluetooth capabilities so you can view and track your workout metrics on the SunnyFit app.
It’s worth mentioning that the smart bike option doesn’t offer as much inseam range on the adjustable seat and the weight capacity is 220 pounds (versus the 300-pound limit on the standard bike).
Both the standard and smart options offer self-leveling pedals, built-in heart rate sensors, and a simple LCD display to show basic workout metrics. There is a small device holder ideal for a phone, but you won’t find any built-in workouts on this bike.
Check out our Sunny Health and Fitness Essential Recumbent Exercise Bike for the full details.
| Footprint | 52.4” L x 26.4” W x 41.5” H |
| Resistance | Magnetic |
| Weight Capacity | 220 to 300 lbs |
| Warranty | 3-year frame, 180-day parts and components |
Best Durable Budget Recumbent Bike: Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike
Good for: Anyone on a tight budget who is seeking a machine built for routine cycling
Best Durable
Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike
Product Highlights
- Under $300
- 300-lb weight capacity
- Comfortable seat
- Dual handlebars
- Highly adjustable
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 300-lb weight capacity
- Transport wheels
- Dual handlebars
- Cushioned seat
- Under $300
- Adjustable components
Cons
- Batteries needed for display not included
- Lacks a bottle holder
- Short warranty
Bottom Line
This under $300 recumbent exercise bike may be a good choice for seniors, beginners, and anyone looking for a simple cardio machine.
This Marcy recumbent exercise bike is a heavy-duty bike with a reasonable price tag. The steel frame paired with durable stabilizers gives these machines a locked-to-the ground feeling while pedaling, and it has a 300-pound weight capacity. Although we haven’t tested the bike ourselves, the more than 1,500 5-star reviews raving it about it make us comfortable enough to give it a 4 out of 5 for durability.
It would’ve received a 5 out of 5 if we knew the flywheel’s weight and it was at least 30 pounds.
You’ll also have 8 levels of magnetic resistance that you can control with a manual tension knob. The tension on this bike won’t necessarily suit you if you’re looking for a machine to perform high-intensity workouts, but it will be suitable for burning calories and generally adding strength to your leg muscles.
We also think this machine will be a long-lasting durable option with the basic LCD monitor. You won’t find a high-tech touchscreen here, but the simple screen will offer you a dependable odometer and require less maintenance.
RELATED: Best Exercise Bikes Under $500
Speaking of maintenance, the magnetic flywheel will provide a nearly maintenance-free riding experience. Magnetic resistance offers a quiet, smooth, and more reliable cardio workout than other drive systems (like friction resistance).
| Footprint | 56” L x 24” W x 44” H |
| Resistance | Magnetic |
| Weight Capacity | 300 lbs |
| Warranty | 2-year limited warranty |
Other Budget Recumbent Bikes We Researched
There were several other bikes that were in the running for this best-of list, but just didn’t make the cut. Here’s why.
ProForm C10R: Although a solid choice with a built-in touchscreen and iFIT capabilities, I thought this was a little pricey for budget-conscious shoppers.
LEIKE X Bike Ultra-Quiet Folding Exercise Bike: This bike is similar to the Exerpeutic 400XL Folding bike, but it only has a 220-pound weight limit.
Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike: This recumbent bike didn’t make it to the list because it’s pretty similar to the Schwinn 230 with a higher price point. Plus, it goes in and out of stock on Amazon frequently.
How We Picked and Tested The Best Budget Recumbent Bikes
When our experts gathered to curate this list of the best budget-friendly recumbent bikes, here are the specs and features we considered:
- Price: All of the recumbent bikes featured on this list are under $600, with several options priced under $200 as well.
- Comfort: Even though this list is geared toward budget-conscious shoppers, we still think it’s important to provide products that are comfortable to use.
- Adjustability: We tried to choose bikes that offer seat adjustment options so you can reach the bike pedals with ease and still be in a proper, comfortable, and ergonomic position.
- Resistance: The bikes featured on this list have magnetic resistance, all with a varying degree of levels to choose from.
- Footprint: Recumbent bikes can often be bulky pieces of equipment, so we tried to choose bikes that would not be especially hard to store or move around your home gym.
Benefits of Budget Recumbent Bikes
The benefits of recumbent bikes don’t stop at a smooth, comfortable ride. Here are some other benefits you’ll experience when using a budget recumbent bike:
Low-Impact Workout
Cycling provides a low-impact cardio workout because your ankles, knees, and hip do not have to absorb the shock of your bodyweight striking the ground like it does when you walking or running. Recumbent bikes can be a great way to introduce cardiovascular exercise to anyone who needs less impact on the joints.
Comfort for All Ages
The recumbent bike is a great choice for seniors and older adults who experience balance or mobility issues. The traditional walk-through design makes it easy to get seated and start riding compared to mounting an upright bike.
Plus, riding on a recumbent bike is more like sitting in an office chair, so you’ll experience less saddle soreness compared to a traditional indoor cycling bike. The comfortable seat also alleviates strain on your lower back and glutes.
RELATED: Recumbent Bike vs Upright Exercise Bike
Ideal for Rehabilitation
The reclined (and back-supported) position of a recumbent bike allows you to focus on the movement of your legs without having to brace your core. Because your back is supported and the pedals are out in front of your seat, the pedaling movement actually requires a lot of hip flexion and knee bending. Bringing your leg through full range of motion (without a lot of load) is an ideal way to strengthen the muscles of the legs without applying too much strain.
What to Look for in a Budget Recumbent Bike
Before you click the add to cart button, consider the following buying guide tips from our experts:
Size
One of my first recommendations for buying a piece of fitness equipment is measuring the space you intend to put it in. For recumbent bikes, you won’t have to accommodate for additional overhead clearance (with the exception of the ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT), but it’s good to scope out how much floor space is required for the bike you’re eyeing.
Levels of Resistance
We suggest making sure the recumbent bike you’re interested in has multiple levels of magnetic resistance so you can keep challenging yourself as you get more comfortable with the bike. Magnetic resistance will also require less maintenance than a friction drive system.
Technology and Display
Most recumbent bikes offer a simple LCD display allowing you to see the basic metrics like speed, time, distance. If monitoring your heart rate is important to you, make sure to choose a bike with pulse sensors or Bluetooth connectivity for a wearable monitor.
General Comfort
When you’re shopping for a recumbent bike, it’s worth considering the small features that will help you stay comfortable while you ride. We suggest looking for a bike with handlebars at either side of the saddle, a padded backrest, and a water bottle holder within reach.
Best Budget Recumbent Bikes FAQs
What is the best inexpensive recumbent bike?
The best budget recumbent bike will depend on your space, needs, and overall fitness level. That said, our expert product testers believe the following bikes give you the most bang for your buck if you’re shopping for an inexpensive recumbent bike:
Best Budget Recumbent Bike Overall: Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Bike
Best Hybrid Budget Recumbent Bike: ProForm Hybrid Trainer XT
Best Budget Folding Recumbent Bike: Lanos 2-in-1 Bike
Best Lightweight Budget Recumbent Bike: Sunny Health & Fitness Essential Recumbent Bike
Best Durable Budget Recumbent Bike: Marcy Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike
Are recumbent bikes worth the money?
Recumbent bikes (along with other styles of exercise bikes) range from high-end to mid-tier and budget-friendly models. Budget bikes often make a solid investment for beginners and casual riders alike.
What is one disadvantage to riding a recumbent bike?
One potential disadvantage to riding a recumbent bike is the comfortable seated position, which makes the recumbent-style ideal for anyone recovering from an ankle, knee, or hip injury. However, some folks might feel limited difficulty because the muscles of the core, back, and upper body do not have to be fully engaged in the same way as riding an upright bike.
What is the difference between a recumbent bike and an exercise bike?
A recumbent bike is a type of exercise bike that puts the rider in a reclined position with their legs in front of their body, as opposed to below their body like on an upright exercise bike. These are meant for people with injuries, senior citizens, or those looking for a more joint-friendly way to get some cardio exercise.
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