The 7 Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes in 2024, According to Certified Trainers

Best Overall

Matrix R30 Recumbent Bike

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Credit: Courtesy of RetailerConsPricey when not on sale

Of all the exercise bikes we’ve tested, the Matrix R30 received top marks from our team for its incredibly stable design, comfortable seat, and accessibility for people with limited mobility. Most single-post design bikes we tried run the risk of tipping over when rider weight is shifted. Not so with the Matrix R30, thanks to its heavy-duty dual post frame that helped us feel stable and secure no matter how hard we pedaled on it.

With a near-zero step-through height, this bike is super accessible and easy for low-mobility folks to use safely. We also have to call out the seat for its comfort. The arc design is molded to hug your back with the perfect level of lumbar support and is made with mesh to allow for proper ventilation.

The magnetic resistance is smooth and predictable with 20 adjustable levels, plus ECB magnetic braking makes for a quieter ride. Five built-in workout programs—from Manual and Intervals to Rolling and Target HR—provide plenty of variety to help you find a workout program that meets your goals.

Lastly, it’s Bluetooth-compatible. But, built-in screen mirroring allows you to use the bike’s console to stream entertainment straight from your phone or laptop.

Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike

Credit: Courtesy of RetailerConsVery basic, non-touchscreen display

While it lacks a built-in smart display, the midrange price and other features on this bike make up for it. Plus, you can place your phone, tablet, or other device on the media shelf so you can ride along to on-demand trainer-led classes with real-time coaching.

The padded seat is a huge win in our eyes and even has ventilation to get the air flowing when things get sweaty down there. We love the feel of the weighted strapped pedals, which work well to keep your feet secure while you ride. Built-in rollers and a relatively lightweight build make the bike the easiest to move around when you need it and out of the way when you don’t.

It’s suitable for tall frames, too. Fitness and Commerce Editor Talene Appleton, NASM, trained an elderly client, 6′ 3″, who rode Schwinn’s similar sibling 290 bike every day for three years because he found it so comfortable.

Dimensions (L x W x H)64 x 27 x 44.5 in.Weight Capacity300 lbs.Resistance TypeMagneticResistance Levels16DisplayLCDMembershipNone

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