Take A Look At These Two Exercise Bikes

This isn’t going to be the same as your typical exercise bike reviews. This pair of upright bike reviews will compare and contrast two proform stationary bikes. It will attempt to explain the difference between an upright vs recumbent exercise bike, so you can make an informed decision when exercise bike shopping. Which ever way you decide to go, either from the upright exercise bike reviews or the recumbent exercise bike reviews, you will come out the clear winner in the fitness department.

Basic Explanation

To start off, an explanation of the terms upright and recumbent may be in order. An upright exercise bike is just as it sounds; seat above the pedals, handle bars out front. looks and pedals like a normal bicycle. The recumbent, on the other hand is a different animal altogether. You are seated in a reclined position with the pedals out front, and handlebars either at your sides or out front. The pros and cons of each will be discussed in the reviews.

A Nice Upright

The chosen upright is the ProForm GL105. Coming in at just under $500 ($449.99) this bike is packed with features. One of the problems with an upright bike has always been the lack of back support. This model however has a fully adjustable ergonomic seat that will give you some measure of support. The handle bars have a built-in heart rate monitor, and the program feature of the bike will automatically adjust the resistance to keep your heart rate in the desired range. The resistance system is magnetic, it is whisper quiet and fully adjustable. As with all upright bikes, the footprint of this bike is smaller than a recumbent. This bike comes with extras such as, a workout fan, built into the console keeps you cool during a workout. Also comes with a reading rack. This is a great bike for the price. Highly recommended.

Check Out This Recumbent

The recumbent is the ProForm VR980. At $100 less than the GL105, this bike certainly doesn’t have any less features. If you have lower back problems or are on the obese side, this is the bike for you. The seat is Anatomically designed to give maximum lower back support and comfortable ride. Again the handlebars have a built in pulse monitor, and again, it has the silent magnetic resistance. Where the GL105 has 2 programs built in, this bike has 4. You can keep track of your pulse, calories burned, miles pedaled, speed, and distance. The only drawback is the amount of space required. Again, highly recommended.

To sum up, if you have lower back problems, or just want a more comfortable ride, go with the recumbent exercise bike. If you are short on space, you may want to consider the upright. Either bike will give you a great workout and great value for your money.