Sophias Exercise Bike Reviews

Exercise Bike Reviews

Here are a some important features to look out for in Exercise bikes before we take a closer look at some specific models ...

Comfort
Upright and recumbent bikes should be able to adjust to the height of any user easily and quickly. The seat should be comfortable, and on a recumbent model, the back should feel fully supported.

Safety
If you have small children in the house, you should look for a shrouded wheel so tiny fingers can't get pinched. Enclosed mechanics will cut down on dust and noise as well.

Monitor View
You should be able to reach and read the monitor easily, since you'll want to be able to adjust resistance as you go. Even the least expensive models should display distance, speed, time, calories burned and resistance level.

Stability
The heavier the front wheel, the more stable the bike, but it should have casters so you can move it easily.

Available space
Look for a model that fits the space you have. Feature-laden bikes take up the most physical space, while cheaper machines can be stashed in a closet.

Heart-Rate Monitor
A heart-rate monitor is a nice option, as it allows you to pace yourself for optimal fat burning or cardio levels. On more expensive machines, look for a cordless monitor. Less pricey models will have an optional ear clip or chest monitor.

Warranty
Look for at least a three-year warranty.

Upright vs. Recumbent

An upright bike looks like a regular road bike, with a vertical orientation. On a recumbent model, the rider is seated on a backrest with legs out in front. Experts differ about the comparative health benefits of upright vs. recumbent models. Most like recumbent models for their comfort and ease of use, especially for seniors, but some also point out that recumbent bikes encourage a slower, less intense workout. Upright bikes allow for more movement, such as riding while standing or in a racing position, which can be harder on your back.

Overall, most reviewers agree that the upright vs. recumbent choice is more a matter of personal comfort than of health benefit. Most exercise bike manufacturers will offer both styles of bike in any one series, with the recumbent models fetching a higher price.

Our Star Rating System:

Recumbent Exercise Bikes Reviews
We have reviewed the following three models:

Weslo Pursuit 525CS Recumbent Bike
Priced below $150 this is one of the lower priced .......click here for the full review.

Proform Crosstrainer 970 Recumbent Bike
This is a very clever bike indeed, the back rest folds.......click here for the full review.

Reebok CYC12 Recumbent Bike
Likes most things Reebok- This is a fine bike......click here for the full review

You will find the these recumbent bikes at stores such as TheSportsAuthority.com and WorkoutWarehouse.com who are a subsidiary of Icon Fitness-the parent company of the brands like Reebok, Proform and Weslo)

Upright Exercise Bikes Reviewed
Again we have three models from Weslo,Proform and Reebok:

Weslo 622 Upright Bike
For a bike in the $100 price range, build quality is......click here for the full review

Proform 920S Upright Bike
There are not many exercise bikes in the $200 range...... click here for the full review

Reebok RT 445 Upright Bike
Like the Proform above we also love............ click here for the full review

The best places to get these upright bikes online are TheSportsAuthority.com and WorkoutWarehouse.com .

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