Keiser M3i Indoor Bike Review (2024): It Really Is Worth That Much

Have you ever looked at a restaurant’s prices and wondered why the food there is so expensive, only for you to take one bite and realize that it’s worth every penny? 

Well, I found myself in a similar situation while doing this Keiser M3i Indoor Bike review. Like many people, I first balked at this exercise bike’s more than $2,000 price tag, but after taking it for a spin I quickly realized why it costs that much money. And as someone who’s tested and reviewed some of the best exercise bikes on the market, I can confidently say this is one of the best out there. 

Trust me, I’m the son of a farmer who taught me all of his frugal ways and I’m still considering purchasing this for my future home gym (sorry, Dad). 

Spinning Bike Tires and Putting the Pedal to the Metal Since 2014

The Garage Gym Reviews team has tested just about every type of exercise bike you can think of, from exercise bikes with moving arms to under-desk exercise bikes. As a result, we’ve sort of become experts on all things indoor bikes and can tell you everything you need to know about their pedals, resistance levels, and handlebars.  

As certified personal trainers, CrossFit Level 1 Trainers, and competitive endurance athletes, we can tell you which exercise bikes are best suited for your fitness goals, but we’re also people who just love home gym equipment and can let you know the best choices based on your budget and space constraints.  

Keiser’s on a Roll

Keiser M3i Indoor Cycle

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Product Highlights

• Comfortable for people of all heights
• Durable
• 350-lb weight capacity
• Only costs $6.99 for interactive programming
• Very smooth

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Adjustable seat that accommodates people from 4’10”- 7’
• 350 lb user weight capacity
• Only $6.99 per month for interactive programming access
• Extremely smooth ride

Cons

• More than $2,400
• No built-in screen to view interactive programming on
• Primitive and small display

Bottom Line

A time-tested exercise bike that lacks modern conveniences but delivers a challenging cardio workout every time.

A Quick Look at the Keiser M3i Indoor Bike

The Keiser M3i Indoor Cycle is a high-quality stationary bike that may not seem like much, but this is a case where there’s more than meets the eye. It has a V-shaped steel frame to accommodate users of all body types and makes getting on and off the bike a breeze for senior citizens and those with injuries. It also comes with a 350-pound weight capacity, a rear-wheel drive with micro-adjustable resistance, and is compatible with multiple cycling apps. 

One of the few downsides of the M3i Indoor Bike is that it comes with a simple LCD monitor, but as we just mentioned, it can connect with just about every cycling app via Bluetooth and it comes with a sturdy media holder. 

Before You Buy

• If the price is a concern, you should know that the Keiser M3i exercise bike can be financed.
• The Peloton app does work with this bike, but only the iPhone version. 
• If you have concerns about the bike you can reach out to Keiser’s customer service department via phone or email. Customer reviews state the service is prompt and very helpful.
• Be sure to take advantage of the bike’s stretch pads, which can be used to warm-up your muscles before your cycling workout. 

Keiser M3i Indoor Bike Video Review

Is the Keiser M3i Indoor Bike Worth It?

Again, I understand that a more-than-$2,000 stationary bike might sound like a lot even for those who may be able to afford it outright. But I’m telling you that if you’re looking for the best-of-the-best, then this is it. 

Does that mean everyone should get this bike? Absolutely not. Here’s who we think the bike is a good fit for and who should consider something else.

Keiser M3i Indoor Cycling Bike Specs

Cardio Workout Experience With the Keiser M3i Indoor Bike

First of all, I’d like to thank the fine people at Carolina Fitness Equipment for allowing us to test the Keiser M3i Indoor Bike at their facility. The bike we tested there was refurbished by the professionals at CFE so it doesn’t necessarily reflect the experience you might have with a brand-new bike, though it felt like new. 

Now onto our review: As I mentioned before, it only took me a few seconds to realize that this bike is special. The adjustable resistance was some of the most challenging I’ve ever experienced, and I’ve tested dozens of exercise bikes. 

The tension is controlled by the resistance knob and you can see what gear you’re on via the LCD screen in front of you. I liked that there were enough levels for people of multiple fitness levels, so it can be used for a leisurely ride or to really challenge the lower-body muscles. 

The magnetic resistance and belt-drive system also produced a silent ride on this pre-owned bike, so I can only imagine how whisper-quiet an out-of-the-box one would sound. 

RELATED: Recumbent Bike Workout

Rear-Drive Flywheel 

I think one of the reasons the Keiser M3i Indoor Bike is so quiet and the resistance is so smooth is due to the fact that the flywheel is in the back of the bike, instead of the front as you usually see. It might sound silly, but putting the flywheel here keeps it out of the way of sweat, which over time could wear down the gears. 

Here’s a bit of a shock: The flywheel only weighs 8 pounds. Typically, lighter flywheels result in a rough ride and some noise, but the combination of the magnetic resistance and belt drive eliminate that concern. 

Stability 

I’m 6 feet, 3 inches tall and on most days hover around 220 pounds, and I felt absolutely no wobble on the Keiser M3i Indoor Bike during my testing. That was the case when I had it on the lightest resistance and pedaled like there was no tomorrow, and when it was at its maximum tension. 

I even read a customer review that stated a 6-foot-10-inch-tall college football player used this and found it stable, so I’m sure the average home gym user will have no problems with this. 

Console

I would’ve liked to see a more advanced monitor on a bike that costs more than rent on my old New York City apartment, but it’s clear Keiser was pouring more money into the bike’s heavy-duty construction than in its technology. 

The LCD display shows the following metrics: cadence, power, calories burned, heart rate, ride time, odometer, ride distance, and gear. One thing that makes the simple display a little more excusable is that you can connect to just about any cycling app, with the exception of iFIT and Echelon Fit. 

Many of the top-tier bikes, such as the Peloton or Echelon exercise bikes, are only compatible with one cycling app so it’s great when you get the option to use multiple. Although the Keiser M3i Indoor Bike is pretty expensive, it helps that you don’t need a monthly subscription on top of it to access all of the bike’s features. 

Seat and Handlebars 

The Keiser M3i Indoor Bike has an adjustable seat similar to that of a road bike, which is to say it’s fine but I wouldn’t sit on it for long periods of time (you can upgrade to a gel seat cover for an additional $55). It does offer four-way adjustability, meaning it can be moved forward and backwards as well as up and down, which is what helps it accommodate riders of all sizes. 

The adjustable handlebars are quite grippy, and like the seat can be moved in four directions for maximum comfort. 

Pedals 

The Keiser M3i Indoor Bike has dual hybrid pedals with SPD clips on one side for those who prefer to ride with cycling cleats, and adjustable toe cages on the other for those who just want to wear their everyday cross-training shoes. 

Media Tray 

I’m one of those daredevils who doesn’t have a case on their smartphone (and yes, I’ve paid the price in the past) but I’d trust my phone on the Keiser M3i Indoor Bike’s media holder, which can also hold iPads, tablets, or books (yes, people still read those). 

Accessories

The Keiser M3i Indoor Bike comes with three optional accessories: a gel seat cover, dumbbell holders, and a Polar H9 Heart Rate Monitor chest strap. None of them are included with the bike and cost extra. 

V-Shape Frame

You might notice that the Keiser M3i Indoor Bike has a frame that’s unlike traditional exercise bikes—it’s more of a V shape. This feature allows riders to get on and off the frame with ease, similar to a recumbent bike. This is great for senior citizens or those who find hopping onto an exercise bike’s seat to be a bit difficult. 

It also keeps the bike lightweight and easy to move, and it comes with an included water bottle holder. 

Footprint and Portability 

The Keiser M3i Indoor Bike is fairly compact at 51 inches in length, 26 inches in width, and 49 inches in height (with the handlebars at their highest position) and weighs 92 pounds. 

It comes with two front-facing transport wheels for easy portability.  

Keiser M3i Indoor Bike vs Schwinn IC4

Schwinn IC4

Schwinn IC4

GGR Score: 4.4

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Product Highlights

• Connects to Peloton and Zwift apps
• 100 levels of resistance
• Sturdy and doesn’t shake while exercising

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Connects to Peloton and Zwift apps
• 100 levels of resistance
• Sturdy and doesn’t shake while exercising

Cons

• LCD display is bare bones
• Android users may notice a lag in metrics shown
• Parts note clearly labeled to help with assembly

Bottom Line

For under $1,000, the Schwinn IC4 is a solid purchase and one of the best exercise bikes if you’re looking for a cheaper alternative to Peloton.

The Keiser M3i Indoor Bike and the Schwinn IC4 are very similar in that both connect to multiple fitness apps (the Keiser has slightly more), have LCD monitors, micro-adjustable magnetic resistance, and dual hybrid pedals. 

The Schwinn IC4 only costs around $1,000, so it’s much more budget-friendly than the Keiser, but the resistance isn’t quite as smooth as the Keiser. The Schwinn bike also comes with a much better warranty, if that matters to you. 

If you’re looking for the best value then we’d recommend Schwinn, but if price is no concern, then opt for the Keiser. 

Our full Schwinn IC4 review has more information on this high-end exercise bike. 

Keiser M3i Indoor Bike vs Bowflex C6

Bowflex C6

Bowflex C6 Bike

GGR Score: 3.88

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Product Highlights

• Free 1-year JRNY trial for new members
• JRNY allows you to stream popular entertainment apps
• You can integrate with other apps like Zwift, Peloton, Sufferfest, Rouvy, and TrainerRoad
• Bluetooth-enabled heart rate armband monitor
• 100 resistance levels
• Tablet holder for custom experience
• Pair of 3-lb dumbbells are included in price

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Priced well
• 1-year JYNY membership included
• Integrates with third-party fitness apps
• Bluetooth heart rate armband monitor included
• Free shipping in continental U.S.
• Adjustable seat and handlebars
• Affordable alternative to pricier brands

Cons

• Reportedly noisy
• Display is not touchscreen

Bottom Line

The Bowflex C6 is a high-quality, well-priced bike with impressive streaming capabilities making it a solid choice for anyone looking to cycle solo or virtually.

Schwinn and Bowflex are owned by the same parent company, Nautilus, and the Bowflex C6 is very similar to the Schwinn IC4—so everything we mentioned above goes the same for this bike. The only big difference is that the Bowflex C6 is now offered for around $700, and comes with a free one-year membership of JRNY programming. 

Read our full Bowflex C6 review for more information on this bike. 

Keiser M3i Indoor Bike vs Peloton Bike

Peloton

Peloton Indoor Exercise Bike

GGR Score: 4.3

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Product Highlights

• 21.5″ touchscreen for immersive training
• Live classes and on-demand cycling sessions
• Leaderboard-style competition
• Adjustable screen, seat, and handlebars
• 5-megapixel front-facing camera
• Bluetooth connectivity

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Immersive experience
• Access to thousands of classes, challenges, and a large variety of workout options
• Compact footprint
• Sleek design
• Financing options
• “Try before you buy” option

Cons

• Disappointing warranty
• Membership is required to use bike
• Expensive
• Shipping is not included

Bottom Line

One of the more expensive options for virtual biking, the Peloton Bike is designed to be an all-in-one fitness solution on a high-quality cardio machine. You’re paying not only for the bike, but the unique training experience it makes accessible from the comfort of your home.

This one’s a bit complicated because the Peloton costs less upfront, but the $44 monthly membership, which is required to access the bike’s full features, means it ends up being more expensive than the Keiser M3i Indoor Bike after about a year and a half. The Keiser is also more durable and has better resistance, and it’s compatible with more than one cycling app. 

If you only plan on using the Peloton app then the Peloton would be a good pick but honestly, we think the Keiser M3i will end up being the better choice due to the better durability and resistance. The Peloton also comes with just SPD clips, so if you don’t have cycling cleats, you’ll have to order the adjustable toe cages that cost extra. 

For more, check out our full Peloton Bike review. 

Warranty, Financing, Returns  

It’s a little disappointing that the Keiser M3i Indoor Bike only comes with a three-year frame warranty and 90-day labor coverage. Yes, the bike is pretty durable and there’s only a small chance you’ll have to take advantage of it, but a better coverage period would’ve made the price tag a little more digestible. 

The bike can be financed through Affirm at checkout, if you qualify, and plans start at $100 a month. 

Another disappointing aspect of the bike is the 30-day return policy. Yes, this is enough time to decide whether you like the bike or not, but similar models in the same price range often have a longer trial period. 

Ordering and Assembling the Keiser M3i Indoor Bike

Since we tried out the Keiser M3i Indoor Bike at Carolina Fitness Equipment we’re not familiar with its assembly process, but customer reviews state it’s pretty simple and should take under 30 minutes. There’s also a video guide that you can follow to make the process even easier. 

The bike also comes with an assembly kit that comes with all the torque wrenches and crowfoot wrenches you’ll need to put it together and maintain the bike. 

Customer Product Reviews

As of this writing, the Keiser M3i Indoor Bike has an average rating of 4.8 stars out of 5 (the same score it has on Amazon) with more than 1,600 reviews written. 

The few negative reviews center around the fact that some customers experience a loud grinding noise after only a few weeks of regular use, though those cases seem to be few and far in between. 

Final Verdict of Our Keiser M3i Indoor Bike Review

The Keiser M3i Indoor Bike is a very expensive stationary cycling bike, but for serious indoor cyclists who are looking for a durable and challenging bike, it’s worth the cost. 

• The V-shape frame makes getting on and off a breeze. 
• Although there’s no touchscreen, it is compatible with multiple cycling apps. 
• The magnetic resistance is challenging and gives you a smooth ride, and the poly-v belt creates a whisper-quiet experience. 
• Financing options are available.

Keiser M3i Indoor Bike Rating

Keiser M3i Indoor Bike

Our Keiser M3i Indoor Bike review will let you know why this stationary bike is worth the more than $2,000 price tag.

Product Currency: USD

Product Price: 2450

Product In-Stock: InStock

Editor's Rating:
3.6

Keiser M3i Indoor Bike FAQs

Anthony O'Reilly, CPT, CNC

Anthony O'Reilly is a NASM-certified nutrition coach and personal trainer whose work has been featured in Muscle & Fitness and BarBend, and previously was an award-winning reporter and photographer for newspapers on Long Island and Queens, NY. After spending most of his life overweight, he dropped 80 pounds and took control of his health and fitness. Outside of work, he still enjoys Little Debbie cakes but offsets them with rigorous hikes and workouts. He's an avid Manchester United supporter, through thick and thin.

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