The tech capabilities on air bikes tend to be lower than what you might find on spin bikes with large touchscreens and app integration. And while the LCD screen can’t pair with fitness apps, it can connect with some wireless heart rate monitors so you can keep a closer eye on your training metrics. Tech capabilities scored a 3 out of 5.

This affordable, sub-$1,000 price tag does come with a catch in the form of its chain-drive system. “Chain drives, as seen on the Assault Bike series, are noisier and require more frequent maintenance,” notes Capritto. Assault Fitness recommends lubing up the chain four times a year, but this process only takes mere minutes to accomplish. 

You won’t find a water bottle holder or speakers to play your jams from, which is why conveniences scored a 2 out of 5. But our tester concluded, “I’ve tried a lot of air bikes, and if I was in the market to buy one, it would be this one.”

Read our full Assault AirBike Classic Review.

Best Exercise Bike with Screen Under $1,000: NordicTrack Commercial VU 29

NordicTrack VU 29 Exercise Bike

NordicTrack VU 29 Exercise Bike

This upright exercise bike offers automatic adjustments to the 24 levels of magnetic resistance, features a 19-pound flywheel, and is fully integrated with iFit and Google Maps™.

The best exercise bikes with screens help users immerse themselves in virtual studio classes and scenic rides around the world, but they often come at a hefty cost that can leave you slack-jawed. The price tag on the NordicTrack VU 29 is a bit easier to swallow, delivering 24 levels of magnetic resistance, a 325-pound user weight capacity, and a 14-inch HD touchscreen with iFIT integration for just $999. Tech capabilities and dynamic programming scored a 5 out of 5.

An iFIT membership grants you access to thousands of immersive virtual spin classes, as well as strength training and mobility classes you can take off the bike. iFIT is also integrated with Google Maps, allowing you to create your own riding route nearly anywhere in the world. 

“iFIT is awesome,” said BarBend editorial member and certified personal trainer Kate Meier. “I did a workout in Hawaii and the views were gorgeous.” We also like iFIT’s SmartAdjust feature, which can automatically adjust your resistance based on your ride. “SmartAdjust took control of my resistance and really made me feel like I was climbing the hills I saw on screen,” said Meier. 

After a one-month free trial, an iFIT subscription will cost $39 a month, $396 a year for a family membership, or $180 a year for an individual plan. We think this subscription is necessary with this bike to make the most of its touchscreen and SmartAdjust capabilities. However, users who opt out of an iFIT subscription can still access a few iFIT workouts or choose to ride in manual mode.

An oversized cushioned seat, ergonomic foot pedals with adjustable straps, a built-in fan, and a 325-pound user weight capacity provide a comfortable and stable ride. The seat can adjust up and down, though we wish there was an option to tinker with the handlebars, which are in a fixed, nearly vertical position.

This 115-pound bike is one of the most portable and lightweight NordicTrack bikes, though this is partially due to the lightweight 19-pound flywheel, which is lighter than the 30- to 40-pound flywheels we like to see on exercise bikes. Lightweight flywheels can make transitioning through resistance levels less smooth, so we wouldn’t recommend this bike for serious cyclists looking to break PRs in speed trials.

Read our full NordicTrack VU 29 Exercise Bike Review.

Best Exercise Bike Under $1,000 for Small Spaces: Yosuda Magnetic Exercise Bike

Yosuda YB001R Magnetic Exercise Bike

Yosuda YB001R Magnetic Exercise Bike

This cost-effective exercise bike can offer excellent low-impact training sessions without breaking the bank. A 35-pound flywheel and belt drive system help operations run smoothly with each pedal, and there’s also a built-in LCD display to track your calories burned, speed, ride time, and distance.

The Yosuda Magnetic Exercise Bike is one of the best exercise bikes for small spaces due to its compact footprint of just 6.11 square feet, which is roughly 2 square feet smaller than the average bike we’ve tested. The price is appealing, too — at $439.99, it’s well below the $500 to $1,500 average for upright spin bikes. Footprint, portability, and setup scored a 4 out of 5.

“This bike is pretty compact, so moving it around on the included transport wheels was easy for me,” noted our tester, a certified personal trainer. 

Often, budget bikes with compact footprints don’t support the kind of ergonomic fit you’ll find on larger and more expensive rides, so we were happy to find that the Yosuda has both a seat that’s adjustable four ways and handlebars capable of vertical adjustments, allowing for riders with a 25- to 35-inch inseam. 

In fact, our tester — who stands 6 feet 3 inches and has a size 13 shoe — had no trouble getting comfortable on the Yosuda. “The adjustability of the seat and toe cages helped me to get into a comfortable position,” they noted, scoring ergonomics a 3.5 out of 5.

Thanks to the 35-pound flywheel, just 3 pounds shy of the Peloton Bike’s flywheel, “the ride is smooth and super quiet,” mentioned our tester. While the tech is limited to a basic LCD screen, we appreciated the inclusion of a water bottle holder and tablet holder, which allows users to stream entertainment or classes from their mobile device

Durability scored a 2.5 out of 5. “This isn’t a bike that’ll last forever,” concluded our tester, who experienced some tears in the seat. Similarly, some customer reviews mentioned their pedals falling off and plastic parts breaking. However, for those looking for a budget-friendly ride, “it’s a good choice for beginners that won’t break the bank.”

Read our full Yosuda Exercise Bike Review.

Best Recumbent Bike Under $1,000: Schwinn 290

Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike

Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike

This recumbent bike offers comfort and modern conveniences, highlighted by the padded and ventilated seat, Bluetooth connectivity for your devices, and a tablet holder for streaming.

The Schwinn 290 is our choice for the best recumbent bike under $1,000, as we like its reclined and ventilated backrest and Bluetooth compatibility. An updated version of the Schwinn 270, the 290 is now compatible with the JRNY app.

Recumbent bikes are often seen in physical therapy offices due to their ease of use and supportive reclined positioning. The 290’s padded seat, ventilated backrest, and step-through design can provide additional support for senior athletes, those struggling with back pain, or anyone with limited mobility. 

[Related: The 6 Best Recumbent Bikes for Seniors]

Its 7-inch LCD monitor delivers training metrics and comes pre-loaded with 13 programs to help you work up a sweat and develop a routine. While you won’t find a built-in touchscreen for streaming, it is compatible with Bluetooth so you can pair the bike with apps like JRNY and Zwift. Plus, the built-in media shelf can hold your mobile device while you stream classes or entertainment.

The bike comes with a free 2-month membership to JRNY, an app with on-demand classes, scenic rides, and adaptive suggested workouts based on ability. “JRNY tracks your progress and milestones,” noted our tester, a CrossFit Level 1 coach. “Plus, there are curated music playlists for your workouts — though I didn’t love the tunes.” 

After your trial, a JRNY mobile-only membership costs $11.99 a month or $99 for the year. However, some customers have struggled with this bike’s connectivity. One review noted, “…Despite several attempts, [I] cannot get JRNY installed, very disappointing.”

At 12.91 square feet, the 290 is a big piece of equipment — most recumbent bikes we’ve tested measure around 10 square feet. Also, the 8.16-pound flywheel is well below the 30- to 40-pound flywheels we like to see on exercise bikes at this price range. As such, we wouldn’t recommend this bike for serious cyclists or those looking to win any speed trials. 

However, it may be perfect for senior riders and individuals with back pain and mobility issues who are trying to stay active. 

One reviewer mentioned, “I recently had knee ligament replacement surgery. The Schwinn 290 is really helping with my knee flexion and leg strengthening. I find it easy to use and as effective if not more so than the high-end recumbent bikes at the gym.”

Read our full Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike Review.

Best Budget Exercise Bike Under $1,000: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B1002

Sunny Health & Fitness Indoor Cycling Bike

Sunny Health & Fitness Indoor Cycling Bike

This bike’s 49-pound flywheel is one of the largest we’ve seen on a consumer indoor cycle and will help you build momentum while keeping your ride smooth. The transport wheels are also large and durable, so you can move tip this bike and move it out of the way when your workout is over.

The Sunny Health and Fitness SF-B1002’s $399 price tag, heavy flywheel, and sturdy build are why it’s our pick for the best budget exercise bike under $1,000. When I was unemployed and looking for an affordable means to train for bike-camping expeditions, this bike caught my eye. I’ve owned this bike for the past three years and have ridden more than 1,000 miles on it. I scored its value a 5 out of 5.

The 49-pound flywheel is incredibly impressive for a bike at this price point — for comparison, the top-of-the-line Peloton Bike only has a 38-pound flywheel. A heavier flywheel helps to maintain momentum, similar to the ride experience on a road bike, and I’ve experienced nothing but smooth transitions during sprints and when I’ve increased the resistance out of the saddle. 

Cheaper products tend to have shorter life spans, but this bike is built to last. When I moved to a new apartment and didn’t want to take the bike apart to fit it into my car, I just tipped it onto its transport wheels and pushed it a mile down the road to my new spot. Durability and portability scored a 5 out of 5. 

[Related: The 8 Best Exercise Bikes for Beginners]

However, this bike uses a friction resistance system, so users will want to make sure to keep the flywheel greased and replace the leather friction pad when it wears out. I lube up the flywheel once a year and have yet to replace my friction pad.

Saving cash won’t come at the cost of an ergonomic fit with this bike’s adjustability, which I scored a 5 out of 5. The seat has four-way adjustability and the handlebars can move up and down. This allows access to riders between 5 feet 2 inches and 6 feet 1 inch. 

Before you get too excited, know that tech capabilities on this bike are non-existent, which may be good for beginners looking for a simple and quality ride. There is no touchscreen, no LCD display to track stats, and no Bluetooth connectivity. There isn’t even a media holder to stream content from your phone or tablet, though you could always invest in a $20 mount. Tech capabilities scored a 2 out of 5.

Best Smart Exercise Bike Under $1,000: Mobifitness Turbo Exercise Bike

Mobi Fitness Exercise Bike

Mobi Fitness Exercise Bike

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly exercise bike, you’ve found your match. Plus, this bike can support users up to 330 pounds.

Smart home fitness technology has taken the world by storm, with Peloton, Tonal, and NordicTrack leading the charge for connected equipment that can power up your training. However, these types of machines often carry hefty price tags, limiting use to gazillionaires. At just $220, the Mobifitness Turbo Exercise Bike is our choice for the best smart exercise bike under $1,000 because of its free app, Bluetooth connectivity, sleek (smart) design, and 32 levels of quiet magnetic resistance. 

[Related: The Best Smart Home Gyms For Free Weights, Small Spaces, And More]

This bike pairs with the free Mobi Fitness app. A free app is rare in this space — most smart bikes come with apps that require a monthly subscription that tends to range between $19 and $44. “There isn’t a screen or tablet on this bike, but you can connect your phone or tablet to the app and to the bike for an integrated workout experience,” noted our tester, a CrossFit Level 1 coach, who gave tech capabilities a 3.75 out of 5. 

The Mobi Fitness app is available for iOS and Android, and it provides detailed training stats, workout plans, spin classes, and gamified cycling experiences. “This programming is pretty cool since it’s free, however, the class variety and quantity pales in comparison to something like Peloton,” our tester noted.

Of course, there’s plenty we like about the bike itself. It has 32 levels of magnetic resistance, for one, and you can control them via a digital dial or a connected Apple Watch. We also like that it can support riders up to 6 feet 5 inches thanks to two-way handlebar adjustments and six-way seat adjustments, which is more than we’ve seen on almost any bike. This seat can move vertically, horizontally, and can also tilt up and down. Customizations scored a 4.5 out of 5.

“This bike is super sturdy when I’m riding,” noted our tester, “but the 1-year warranty is worrisome, since who knows how well everything will hold up over time.” The 1-year parts and 2-year frame warranty are disappointing, but perhaps to be expected at this price point. Ideally,  we’d like to have seen something closer to a 5- or 10-year warranty. For this, durability scored a 3.75 out of 5.

What to Consider Before Buying an Exercise Bike Under $1,000

“First, you’ll need to decide what type of exercise bike you want: recumbent, upright (like a spin bike), or an air bike,” mentions Amanda Capritto, CPT, CF-L1, CES, CSNC. After that, you’ll need to figure out what you want from your exercise bike and how much you’re willing to spend. Are you looking for Bluetooth connectivity to have better access to your training metrics? How much space do you have available to dedicate to a new piece of equipment? Percolate on these questions as you consider what to look for when buying an indoor cycle.

Floor Space

Even when you’re only considering your options, it’s important to know the amount of space you’re working with. We’ve provided dimensions for each of the exercise bikes on this list, so all you need to do is pull out your tape measure and measure your available floor space. This way you can be armed with the information you need to help you make a decision. 

Tech Capabilities 

“If [tech capabilities] are something you’re interested in, be prepared to shell out a significant amount of cash and also pay for a monthly subscription. Budget-friendly options are available, but comparatively lack in the tech department,” notes Capritto. 

Budget-friendly exercise bikes under $1,000 generally won’t provide the range of tech capabilities found on high-end models, but, despite lacking touchscreens of their own, many can link up with your mobile device to support app-based workouts. The bikes on our list provide options to connect and stream programming from apps like iFIT ($39/month), JRNY ($11.99/month), and Mobi Fitness (free!). 

Your Needs

Whether you’re looking to build strength in your legs with loads of resistance on a spin bike, or want to tackle some LISS training while recovering from an injury, bringing an exercise bike into your home provides convenience and accessibility to help tackle your goals. (2) 

Of course, some exercise bikes are more compatible than others. If you’re dealing with back pain or have limited mobility, a recumbent bike with a step-through design and a backrest would likely be a better fit than your standard upright bike. Air bikes, meanwhile, support a total-body workout with the addition of moveable arms, so those interested in CrossFit training or burning a few extra calories may be best served by a self-powered bike. 

Benefits of Exercise Bikes Under $1,000

“Cycling brings an impressive collection of health benefits to the table: cardiovascular health, endurance, stamina, muscular endurance are all improved with cycling, to name a few,” notes Amanda Capritto, CPT, CF-L1, CES, CSNC. Here are some additional benefits of cycling that come along with bringing an exercise bike under $1,000 into your home. 

Time Efficient

Getting to the gym takes effort. Packing your gym bag, driving to and from the gym, parking, mingling with the front desk clerk who you’ve known for too long so you can’t ask them what their name is again — these can add up to turn your gym session into an entire chunk of your day. When you have an indoor bike sitting in your living room, you’re reclaiming your time by getting your cardio done in the time it takes to roll out of bed and hop on your ride. 

Low-Impact Cardio

When your knees and joints and back start begging you to take it easy during high-impact training sessions (i.e. running outdoors or on a treadmill), indoor cycling is here to save the day (and your body). (3) The low-impact cardio that indoor cycling can provide allows users to get moving and work up a sweat without placing a ton of force on the body. This type of exercise can boost aerobic fitness, tone and strengthen legs, and have positive effects on mood. (4)(5)

[Related: Running on a Treadmill Vs. Running Outside — Which Is Best for Your Goals?]

No Need to Leave the House

Riding a bike outside can be thrilling: seeing the sights, people watching as you cruise down busy streets, avoiding angry drivers who shout the sort of profanities that leave you lying awake at night wondering if you really are a “stupid t@$%! s*$& head!” Bringing an exercise bike into your home can help city dwellers avoid such incidents (and, you know, inclement weather).

“Many people do not feel safe cycling outside,” says BarBend expert reviewer Amanda Capritto, CPT, CF-L1, CES, CSNC., “Indoor exercise bikes provide access to cycling no matter the weather or outdoor conditions.” And as someone who’s been doored and cursed at while riding around Los Angeles, my indoor bike is my sanctuary when I just don’t have the energy to face the city streets.

How Much Do Exercise Bikes Under $1,000 Cost?

The price range for exercise bikes is expansive, ranging from a few hundred dollars up to almost $3,000 for machines with screens, AI technology, and interactive programming. All of the bikes on our list come in under $1,000, with the higher-priced cycles providing heavy-duty builds and tech features like touchscreens and Bluetooth connectivity to cycling apps. The chart below provides a breakdown of our top choices and their prices.

The most affordable exercise bikes on our list vary. Some choices — like the Yosuda Magnetic Exercise Bike and Sunny Health & Fitness SF B1002 — are basic upright bikes with few bells and whistles. Interestingly, the Mobifitness Turbo exercise bike provides Bluetooth capabilities, but is one of the lowest-priced bikes here. However, its warranty is limited, which makes us wonder about how long this bike can withstand daily use.

The self-powered Assault AirBike Classic is a sturdy mid-range option, and its moving arms can help incorporate a total body-workout into your training routine. However, these types of bikes generally lack screens or options for dynamic programming.

[Related: The 7 Best Exercise Bikes with Moving Arms]

The NordicTrack Commercial VU is our only bike with a screen and integrated training with iFIT. However, this subscription will cost an additional $39 a month after a free 30-day trial. However, the Schwinn IC4 and 290 both offer Bluetooth capabilities and can pair with apps on your phone and tablet.

Types of Exercise Bikes Under $1,000

From upright spin bikes to air bikes to easy-on-the-joints recumbent bikes, we’ve got an option on this list that can give you the type of training you’re looking to do.

Upright Exercise Bike

“Upright bikes are your typical stationary bikes, which are excellent for high-intensity exercise and tech-savvy cyclists who love to take fitness classes,” says BarBend expert reviewer Amanda Capritto, CPT, CF-L1, CES, CSNC. These bikes position the rider in either a vertical position or leaning forward over the handlebars, and they tend to allow the user to stand up out of their seat to mimic hill climbing.

These bikes usually have a weighted flywheel, and you’ll find magnetic or friction-based resistance offerings. Friction resistance can be less expensive, but it can also require more maintenance than magnetic resistance. 

Air Bike

“Air bikes differ from recumbent and upright bikes in that they engage the upper body, thus providing a full-body workout,” notes Capritto. These bikes are often used in CrossFit gyms for their ease of use, the inclusion of upper and lower body work, and value as a high-intensity training tool. Air bikes tend to have few bells and whistles and, since they’re self-powered, don’t require electricity. 

Recumbent Exercise Bike

“Seniors and individuals with limited mobility may struggle to get on and off of a [standard] exercise bike, in which case a recumbent bike is recommended,” says Capritto. These bikes sit riders in a more reclined position and often feature larger seats and supportive backrests, so users can reap the benefits of cardio without the added stress to their backs and knees.

[Related: Best Recumbent Bikes for Small Spaces, Streaming, Seniors, and More]

Final Word

No matter your fitness level, there’s an exercise bike under $1,000 to help you reach your goals. Our top choices offer a variety of features, from Bluetooth capabilities to touchscreens with integrated programming. While these bikes are less expensive than some higher-end options, pulling the trigger on a purchase can still be nerve-wracking. We’ve made sure to note weight limit, intended use, dimension, resistance type, and other key features so you’re armed with the information to help you make the right decision. 

Before buying an exercise bike, users should consider the type of riding they’d like to do. Do you need added back support to create a more comfortable cycling experience? Will tech features aid your training? Are you looking for an option that can incorporate your arms and legs for a total-body workout? As you uncover the answers to these questions, peruse our list to see which bike best suits you.

FAQs

References

1. Chavarrias, M., Carlos-Vivas, J., Collado-Mateo, D., & Pérez-Gómez, J. (2019). Health Benefits of Indoor Cycling: A Systematic Review. Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania), 55(8), 452. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina55080452
2. Rissel, C., Passmore, E., Mason, C., & Merom, D. (2013). Two pilot studies of the effect of bicycling on balance and leg strength among older adults. Journal of environmental and public health, 2013, 686412. https://doi.org/10.1155/2013/686412
3. Sandmeier R. H. (2000). Osteoarthritis and Exercise: Does Increased Activity Wear Out Joints?. The Permanente Journal, 4(4), 26–28.
4. Engels, H. J., Drouin, J., Zhu, W., & Kazmierski, J. F. (1998). Effects of low-impact, moderate-intensity exercise training with and without wrist weights on functional capacities and mood states in older adults. Gerontology, 44(4), 239–244. https://doi.org/10.1159/000022018
5. Ligeza, T. S., Maciejczyk, M., Wyczesany, M., & Junghofer, M. (2023). The effects of a single aerobic exercise session on mood and neural emotional reactivity in depressed and healthy young adults: A late positive potential study. Psychophysiology, 60(1), e14137. https://doi.org/10.1111/psyp.14137