Exercise Bike

You know you need to work out, but who has time to go to the gym? Not many people these hectic days. Wouldn't it be great if you could bring the gym to your house? Well, you may not be able to bring the whole thing, but you certainly can bring pieces of it home. One of the best pieces of work out gear available for not too much money is a fitness bike. The best exercise bike? That's hard to say; too many variables. Certainly a magnetic resistance bike is a great choice. Magnetic bikes give you a fabulous workout that's quiet, and easy on the knees. Again, the best exercise bike would be hard to pinpoint without knowing all the features a shopper is concerned with. This article will look at 3 popular models, their features, and price range.

What Is A Recumbent Bike?

First off, for a little background on what a silent magnetic resistance recumbent bike is (quite a mouthful, huh?). The magnetic resistance part is the variable resistance adjustment that allows the user to change the resistance level while working out. Also, unlike mechanical resistance bikes that have parts that wear out, a magnetic resistance bike utilizes magnetism to add or subtract resistance. The term "recumbent bike" refers to the position the pedaler is in when they are working out. A recumbent bike puts the rider in a reclined position as opposed to an upright bike which has the rider in a traditional bicycle position. The recumbent position is better for people with back problems or obesity.

The Three Challengers

Ok, so the 3 silent magnetic resistance recumbent bikes are, the Stamina 15-4800, the proform vr980, and the Wynne 2.3R. Let's start with the Stamnia. Coming in at around $200.00, this is the lower end bike on the list. Rest assured that doesn't mean this bike is cheap though! With ergonomic seating, ergonomically designed handlebars, oversize foot pedals, and 6 levels of resistance, this fitness bike is a steal! The computer console allows the user to design their own workout. You get feedback in the form of time, distance, calories burned and heart rate.

The Proform VR980 is next. It sells for around $350, and the higher cost gets you a few more attractive features. Things like, self leveling pedals, heat rate monitor built into the handlebars; just grab on to them, and your heart rate is measured. Three certified trainer preprogrammed workouts make sure you get the most out of your workout.

Finally, the Wynne 2.3R. At right around $700 it is the most expensive, and worth every penny. With a low profile frame design, this bike is easy to get on and off of. The 3 piece pedal crank ensures less wear and tear. The electronics are very user friendly and display time, speed, calories, distance, RPM, pulse, watts, heart rate, and program level.

All in all, a magnetic resistance recumbent cycle will give you the workout you desire, no matter which model you choose.

Exercise Bike |