Exercise bikes offer a great workout. Their genius design provides not only a low-impact workout but one that also incorporates cardio and strength. If you are a shorter rider, it can be challenging to find one that fits your height; a proper fit is vital for your success.
Why is it Important to Choose a Bike That Fits Your Height?
Finding a
Main Features That Shorter Riders Should Consider
Bikes offer an abundance of features and new designs as their technology continues to improve. It is terrific to have features such as Bluetooth connectivity and digital interfacing, but if the

Best Exercise Bikes for Short Person per Type
A workout should be fun and have you craving more. A ride on an indoor cycle does just that while providing incredible strength and cardio workout. The exhilarating feeling of crushing a training session is dashed when the equipment doesn’t fit right and the possibility of injury increases. We understand the importance of the right
Best Indoor & Spinning Cycles for Short People
An indoor cycling
DMASUN Magnetic Indoor Cycling Bike
A cost-effective, sturdy, and quiet indoor cycling experience with versatile magnetic resistance, thoughtful design features, and positive user feedback, making it an excellent budget-friendly choice for maintaining fitness year-round.
- Minimum inseam: 26″
- User height range: 26″-35″ inseam
- Resistance system: friction
- L x W x H: 40.16 x 21.65 x 46.06 inches
- Item weight: 28.58 pounds
- Drive system: belt
- Maximum user weight: 300 pounds
The DMASUN spin
It is suitable for users with a height range of 4.8”-6.1”.
YOSUDA Friction Indoor Cycling Bike
Priced at only $334.99 and some times lower on the official site, it is a great contender for shorter riders that are eager to purchase a spin bike as the minimum inseam requirement is 25 inches.
15% OFF with code YSD15 at checkout
- Minimum inseam: 25″
- Flywheel weight: 35 pounds
- User height range: 25″-35″ inseam
- Resistance system: friction
- L x W x H: 40.16 x 21.65 x 46.06 inches
- Item weight: 72.8 pounds
- Drive system: belt
- Maximum user weight: 270 pounds
The YOSUDA Indoor Cycling
Earning a 4.4 out of 5 consumer rating, this
Related: Yosuda Bikes Review (YB001, YB007A & Pro)
The
Best Recumbent Bikes for Short People
A recumbent bike is a piece of exercise equipment where the user rides in a reclined position. Recumbent bikes are a fantastic selection for those riders with decreased mobility, suffer from back pain, or prefer an incredibly comfortable seat while riding. They also offer generous seat settings making them ideal for shorter riders.
Merach S19
The Merach S19 Recumbent Bike is a fantastic value for the affordability of this bike. I still can’t believe that this model is below $500 because of the level of its craftsmanship.
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I have tried and reviewed the Merach S19 personally, so I know firsthand that it offers a high level of comfort and adjustability. The vented backrest and padded seat allow for maximum comfort while riding. I could easily watch an entire movie with my family while riding without my tailbone feeling numb or my shirt stuck to my back from sweat, which was fantastic!
I also liked how easy it is to move the saddle and lock it into the correct position. My mom, who is 70 years old, could also easily adjust this bike to get into the proper set-up to accommodate her. This bike accommodates a wide range of inseams from 17.72 to 35.43 inches.

Sunny Health & Fitness Recumbent Bike SF-RB4708
Purchasers describe it as "well-built" and "sturdy." It earned a 4.4 out of 5 consumer rating with almost 2,000 ratings.
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Main Specs
· Minimum inseam: 26.5″
· User height range: 26.5″-34″ inseam
· Resistance system: magnetic
· L x W x H: 60 x 25.5 x 52 Inches
· Item weight: 95.77 pounds
· Drive system: belt
· Maximum rider weight 350 pounds
The Sunny Health &
We selected this well-designed model because of the craftsmanship quality that it offers purchasers at a reasonable price. Priced at $599.99, this belt-driven option is quiet and offers superior features compared to its competitors. The oversized padded seat and back offer comfort and versatility. It moves easily to accommodate riders with an inseam beginning at 26.5 inches.
The moveable handlebars add an extra feature not generally seen on typical recumbent bikes meant to increase your heart rate and provide a total body workout. Pulse sensors help to track your heart rate as you ride and display it on the monitor. This
Vanswe Recumbent Exercise Bike
It uses Bluetooth Smart Technology (compatible with iOS & Android) to provide free fitness data straight to your device & allows you to track your workouts.
Main Specs
· Minimum inseam: 27″
· User height range: 27″-35″ inseam
· Resistance system: magnetic
· L x W x H: 45 x 20 x 40 inches
· Item weight: 53 pounds
· Maximum user weight: 380 pounds
The Vanswe Recumbent Exercise
Although significantly lighter than the previously discussed model, this model offers an extended maximum user weight range of 380 pounds. The fully adjustable seat ensures riders beginning with an inseam of 27 inches can find a comfortable riding position. We liked that this model included Bluetooth Smart Technology and provided a free
The Vanswe Recumbent
Best Upright Bikes for Short People
Upright bikes allow the rider to sit in an upright position, similar to riding an outdoor
Sunny Health & Fitness Comfort XL Folding Exercise Bike
Provides extreme comfort and support during your workout. Its foam coated handles and extra-large fully padded seat and backrest make you feel like you’re sitting on a cloud.
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Main Specs
· Minimum inseam: 25″
· User height range: 25″-30″ inseam
· Resistance system: magnetic
· L x W x H: 32 x 21 x 49 inches
· Item weight: 72.8 pounds
· Drive system: belt
· Maximum user weight: 300 pounds
This belt-driven model is lightweight and compact but still provides sturdy construction. It accommodates riders with a minimum inseam of 25 inches and riders weighing up to 300 pounds.
This 4.6 out of 5 consumer-rated bikes accommodates riders of all
The extra-large fully padded saddle of this upright
Marcy Exercise Upright Fan Bike
This model offers a fan resistance system and dual-action exercise arms for a total body workout. Riders with an inseam of at least 21" can effectively use this bike.
Main Specs
· Minimum inseam: 21″
· User height range: 21″-35″ inseam
· Resistance system: air
· L x W x H: 45 x 25 x 47.5 inches
· Item weight: 79 pounds
· Maximum user weight: 300 pounds
This model offers a fan resistance system and dual-action exercise arms for a total body workout. Riders with an inseam of at least 21″ can effectively use this
The Marcy Exercise Upright Fan
The adjustable padded seat offers comfort for a multitude of riders with various heights and body types. This
Inseam: What Is It, and How You Can Measure It
Your inseam is the measurement of just below the groin’s underside to the bottom of your ankle. This is an important measurement to know when selecting a
Follow these tips, and you will successfully find your correct inseam measurements.
What You Should Consider Before Buying a Bike for Indoor Cycling
Now we’ve looked at our indoor cycle top picks, let’s help you determine which one is best for you. We all have our criteria when it comes to making an investment. Here are the main things you should consider before buying your indoor cycle.
Resistance
Adjusting the resistance on your indoor cycle allows you to work at different intensity levels. Training at different intensities helps you train towards your individual
Additionally, you’ll have to consider how the
Flywheel Weight
Flywheel weight is a popular topic of conversation when it comes to indoor cycles. The greatest question is whether a heavier or lighter flywheel is better? The answer depends on what you’re looking for. Heavier flywheels make pedaling controlled and less jerky. They produce more power at a steady rate, thus placing less pressure on the joints. But, heavier flywheels do require more energy to get moving and typically cost more. Conversely, lighter flywheels need less effort to get moving and are typically more cost-friendly. However, its lightweight makes the movement less smooth and thus can aggravate the joints. Most indoor cycles are designed to suit heavy flywheels. But, advancements in engineering have shown indoor cycles can provide a smooth, stress-free ride with a light flywheel.
Drive System
Most indoor cycles operate with a chain or belt drive. Chain drives mimic that of a real-life road
Q-Factor
Q-factor is defined as the distance between the pedal attachment points of each crank. Essentially, it measures your stance width when standing up. A narrower Q-factor allows for greater speed because less force is needed to rotate the cranks. Additionally, Q-factor is used for people with knee injuries and rehabilitation. Q-factors that are too wide or too narrow may cause additional knee problems.
Inseam
Inseam refers to your individual leg length. Finding the optimal inseam can make your ride safer and more comfortable. Just like your clothes measurement, the inseam is the distance between the highest point of your inner thigh and the heel of your foot. You’ll need your
Connectivity
Many indoor cycles are compatible with specific cycling or workouts apps. If you want to get data specific with your cycling or follow non-cycling-specific workouts, connectivity is a must. While they’re great features, they often come at a cost. If data isn’t your thing and you just want something to get you moving a bit more, basic, cheaper models are generally just as good.
Bottom Line
The bottom line is to find a
Thank you!!
You are welcome, thanks for your kind words.
I want a straight back when I cycyle… not bending over. I am 4’10”. Portable would be even better!
Which bike do you recommend? Sheila J
Hi Sheila!
If you want the back of the seat to support you, consider a recumbent exercise bike. For example, this bike is an excellent recumbent bike with a great price.
We suggest you measure your inseam length instead of your height, as it is a better way to determine if the bike is for you. You can check this easy-to-follow video. The Inseam Adjustment for the SF-RB4708 is: Min 26.5 In/ Max 34 In.
Would have been more helpful if you had more than 2 examples/recommended recumbent bicycles.
Hi!
Thank you for your comment.
We would also suggest the two popular recumbents from Schwinn (230 & 270) that suit people around 5ft, as many users say in their reviews.
We will release a dedicated guide for recumbent bikes in the near future!
Extremely helpful and thorough write-up. Thank you!!!!
Thank you, Natalie!