Experts say to look for the following features in an exercise bike:
- Upright and recumbent bikes should 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. Pedals should be wide with a strap to keep your feet in place.
- If you have small children in the house, you should look for a shrouded wheel and chain so tiny fingers can't get pinched. Enclosed mechanics will cut down on dust and noise, as well.
- You should be able to reach and read the monitor easily, since you'll want to be able to adjust resistance as you ride. Even the least expensive models should display distance, speed, time, calories burned and resistance level. There should still be enough space between the seat and handles to easily get on and off.
- The heavier the front wheel, the more stable the bike, but it should have casters so you can move it easily.
- 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 chest strap, which is more accurate than a hand-grip monitor. Less expensive exercise bikes may have an optional chest strap or simple, hand-grip sensors.
- Look for at least a one-year warranty that includes labor. Most offer longer warranties on parts and frame, but the labor warranty is important since a technician will generally need to come to your home for service.
