*Please note - the score we give each exercise bike is in relation to its price range and should only be used to compare with other bikes within its bracket (score also takes into account the value for money). The best price we list is what we can find at present, the costs differ dramatically between retailers but if you see one that is so much lower than the rest check that it's new and not a re-conditioned model before buying, or it has the full manufacturer's warranty. For more information see where to buy an exercise bike.
We have listed the bikes we've tried to date below in order of price. See our Key below for definitions. More will be added on a weekly basis.
SweatBand.com have a wide range of mid-priced exercise bikes, many with good discounts, to see their current stock please click here.
NEW! You can train to get fit but what can you do about staying healthy and avoiding bugs? See Monika Akabusi's review of the new Sanyo Virus Washer for the home and office.
Braking System
How the bike controls the resistance levels to work you harder, the three ways to do this are:-
air - a fan builds up a flow of air and as you pedal faster it increases the resistance. The one disadvantage of this system is that you can only alter it by changing speed and therefore if you slow down so does the level of resistance. mech - friction is increased usually with a band around the flywheel which can offer high resistance and a tough workout. However, this needs to be altered by manually turning a dial and the system can suffer from wear and tear with regular use - used predominantly on spinning bikes. magn - the most versatile braking system operated by pressing a button that alters the position of magnets to increase resistance. The main advantages are ease of use plus pre-set programmes can control the level and be used by heart rate control programmes to keep you in the fat-burning zone.
mag1 - manual control, that means you turn a knob that slides the magnet.
mag2 - digital control via button on console - much easier to use than the knob
Number of programmes
The more the better is the general rule. Pre-set programmes will automatically alter the resistance levels or set target speeds etc to optimise your workout. This saves you having to press buttons to change the settings yourself. Some models allow you to programme your own workouts.
Heart rate prog
These are very useful programmes that alter the resistance on the pedals or cycling at a speed that will keep your pulse rate in a target zone to optimise fitness gains and weight loss. (no. of HRCs in brackets)
Special Features:-
B - body fat system C - custom programmable so you can set your own programmes D - DVD workout included E - ear clip to measure pulse (not very accurate) F - fitness test, set programme that checks your current fitness level G - pulse rate measured by grips handles - better than earclip H - wireless heart monitoring via chest strap and built-in polar chip - better than grips M - MP3 station and speakers P - profiles facility, console stores workout data for more than one person I - internet connection, some manufacturers offer this facility to download new programmes R - recovery programme, controlled recovery phase to bring you back to normal heart rate T - trainer software compatible TV - console has a TV screen. V - video training programmes - you cycle along 'real' roads and the bike replicates hills etc
