Indoor cycles, also known as Spin® bikes have become a staple piece of equipment in many home and commercial gyms. Over the last couple of decades, the market has diversified to supply a range of different indoor cycling bikes. In this article, we’re going to help you decide which indoor cycling
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What Is an Indoor Cycle or a Spin Bike ?
Indoor cycles, or Spin® bikes, are designed to be a stationary version of a traditional road
Indoor Cycle vs Upright & Recumbent: What Is the Difference?
Stationary bikes can be further divided into indoor cycles, upright, and recumbent bikes. While they all require a pedaling motion, their appearance and feel differ dramatically. Take a look at the table below to see the key differences between the three.
| Difference | Indoor Cycles | Upright Bikes | Recumbent Bikes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resistance | Heavy flywheel. | Light flywheel. | Light flywheel. |
| Seated Position | Seat is above the handlebars. Rider sits with a forward lean. Pedals are beneath the seat. | Seat is below the handlebars. Rider sits in an upright position. Pedals are beneath the seat. | Seat is below the handlebars. Rider sits with a backward lean. Pedals are in front of the seat. |
| Gadgets | Some models are compatible with apps, but others lack real-time data. | Typically display real-time data. | Typically display real-time data. |
| Seat | Firm and narrow. | Wide and comfortable. | Wide and comfortable. |
| Price | Generally speaking, they are more expensive. | Generally speaking, they are cheaper. | Generally speaking, they are cheaper. |
The 3 Most Important Things You Should Know Before Deciding
The differences within indoor cycles are typically characterized by their resistance, flywheel and drive system, and multimedia/connectivity. These differences are likely to be the deciding factor as to which indoor cycle you decide to invest in.
Resistance
Indoor cycles contain a heavy flywheel used to generate resistance. Resistance is created by magnets, friction, or a combination of both. Magnetic resistance is adjusted by magnets moving closer or further from the flywheel. The closer the magnets get to the flywheel, the greater the resistance. Friction resistance is adjusted by strong cotton felt pads moving closer or further from the flywheel. Magnetic resistance is typically quieter, requires less maintenance, and doesn’t need to be replaced often. But, friction resistance is much more affordable.
Related: Magnetic vs Friction Resistance in Indoor Cycling
Flywheel and Drive System
Indoor cycles contain a flywheel. Their flywheel can be perimeter-weighted or center-weighted. Perimeter-weighted flywheels are typically heavier but have less consistent flywheel weight distribution compared to center-weighted flywheels. Perimeter-weighted flywheels can provide more resistance, but put more stress on the knees.
Indoor cycles can contain a chain or belt drive. Chain drives are typically seen on classic outdoor cycles. They replicate real-life road biking but are subject to more wear and tear. This is due to the connected chain links. Since belt drives don’t have chain links, they’re less susceptible to damage. Belt drives are also typically quieter than chain drives.
Multimedia/Connectivity
Gone are the days when an indoor cycle had just a seat, handlebars, and some pedals. In today’s society technology is everything, even when we exercise. More advanced indoor cycles come with wireless multimedia technology that allows you to track your workouts and compete against others. These features can be a great asset to training and help with your motivation and adherence. However, these extra features also come with a hefty price tag.
So, what is the best spinning
Detailed Reviews of the Top 6 Picks (Budget, Mid, High-End)
Budget Models (Under $500)
Top Pick: Finer Form Indoor Exercise Bike
Made from high-grade reinforced steel with heavy-duty cranks, and a 35lb magnet drive system, this bike gives you a smooth, enjoyable ride from the comfort of your home.
Main Specs
- Dimensions: 40.5” x 35” x 10”
- Weight: 35lbs
The Finer Form indoor cycling
The Finer Form indoor cycling
Runner-Up: DMASUN Indoor Cycling Bike
This bike also contains a 42lb flywheel to give you the feel of a traditional outdoor sport in your own home. Comfort is one of the things that makes this bike really stand out.
Main Specs
- Dimensions: 41.4” x 21.7” x 46.2”
- Weight: 95lbs
The DMASUN indoor cycling
The DMASUN indoor cycling
Mid Price Models (Under $1000)
Top Pick: Schwinn IC4 / Bowflex C6
An excellent alternative option to Peloton or other streaming bikes. A quiet magnetic resistance bike, proficient enough to link with the many available streaming devices such as Peloton® and Zwift®.
Comes equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to link to several apps such as Peloton® and Zwift®. The Schwinn really does offer excellent quality at a very affordable price.
Main Specs
- Dimensions: 47.8” x 21.2” x 51.8”
- Weight: 106lbs
The Schwinn IC4 indoor cycling
The Schwinn IC4 indoor cycling
*The Schwinn IC4 and Bowflex C6 are virtually the same
Runner-Up: Sunny Health & Fitness Synergy Pro
Includes a 40lb inertia-ready flywheel belt drive mechanism to provide a smooth & quiet ride. Its magnetic resistance provides quick, easy, & reliable resistance changes.
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Main Specs
- Dimensions: 49” x 22” x 46.5”
- Weight: 88.2lbs
The Sunny Health &
The Sunny Health &
High End Models (Under $2000)
Top Pick: Keiser M3i Indoor Cycle
The App takes the cycle to another level, and with compatibility and connectivity, the bike offers all of the latest conveniences the digital age has to offer.
Main Specs
- Dimensions: 45” x 26” x 49”
- Weight: 85lbs
If you’re looking for an indoor cycle that does it all then the Keiser M3i is for you. The Keiser M3i indoor cycle features the industry’s first V-shape frame. Its unique V-shape frame mimics the frame of a road
Alongside its sleek design, the Keiser M3i indoor cycle also comes with a wide array of added features. Its Keiser M Series app allows you to log and analyze every detail of your ride. The digital display also gives you ride feedback in real-time, including power, heart rate, cadence, and FTP. The versatile media tray stores your phone, tablet, or computer to display a range of compatible training apps or videos. The Keiser M3i indoor cycle also comes with a floor mat, Polar heart rate monitor, tool kit, M Series converter, gel set cover, dumbbell holder, and caged/SPD pedals.
Runner-Up: Myx Fitness Bike
One of the most exciting features is how this bike focuses on heart rate zone training. You don't only receive a heart rate monitor, but also personalized heart rate zones to help you reach your specific goals.
Main Specs
- Dimensions: 54” x 21” x 47”
- Weight: 175lbs
The
The
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 light weight 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. Indoor cycles such as the Keiser M3i Indoor Cycle have proven this with their impressively designed
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, 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.
Conclusion
Indoor cycles are designed to mimic traditional road bikes. They provide real-life cycling feel from the comfort of your own home. Whether it’s time or convenience, we don’t always want to take the
