7 Best Exercise Bikes For Seniors: Recumbent, Folding & More

Exercise Bikes For Elderly Seniors Compared

Benefits of Indoor Cycling for Seniors

Exercise bikes are great for seniors and have a lot of benefits (for all generations).

Choosing The Best Exercise Bike For The Elderly

Comfort & Adjustability

The bike needs to be comfortable. This includes seat padding, adjustable height, and easy to find, use and grip handlebars. The pedals need to be adjustable (or the seat move forward or back), and most of all, you should be able to get on and off without assistance.

Bike Type

There are three major types of exercise bikes. Of the three, recumbent bikes are recommended for seniors. You also have the option of upright stationary bikes and indoor bicycles. We will cover the different bike types in greater detail later in the article.

Safety & Durability

The bike needs to be durable. The frame itself should be strong enough to handle the user's weight and stand up to constant, repeated use.

The more features a bike has, the safer for seniors it will be. Focus on calories and distance traveled may be nice for those looking for an intense workout, but seniors need to worry more about heart rate, speed, incline, and resistance.

Footprint & Storage Features

The base of the bike needs to be wide and sturdy. With many models focusing on a smaller footprint, that extra width at the bottom could mean the difference between a great workout and falling over trying to start.

You should also consider storage areas for things like water bottles and towels. You shouldn't forget entertainment stations either, to hold a smartphone or tablet so you can read, watch a show or even follow a workout while you ride.

User Needs

When making a purchasing decision, you need to factor in who will be using the bike. The specific user or users needs must be accounted for.

Bike adjustments, seat padding, weight limits and capacities, height requirements, and user-friendliness (see below) need to be factored into the decision making process.

Ease of Use & Assembly

Most exercise bikes will need to be assembled before use. If this is a problem for you, then you may need to seek other arrangements. Some retailers, like Amazon, offer in-home assembly for an added fee. If you may struggle with assembly or aren’t sure you can complete the task, these additional ease-of-use factors need to be considered.

Extra Features

Many exercise bikes will come with additional features. These are included to make the experience more enjoyable, easier, or better. For example, Bluetooth connectivity and integrated speakers allow you to connect your phone or tablet to listen to music, watch workout videos, or connect with apps that are included with the bike software.

You may also find a bike with a display monitor or screen. This is where your sessions' information will be displayed, including current heart rate, distance traveled, time on the machine, and other vital statistics.

Don’t discount the smaller things, either. Towel racks and water bottle holders are key elements that aren’t always present.

Price & Warranty

The price and warranty are also going to be a factor. You will pay more for higher-quality and better performance. However, this doesn’t mean that cheap bikes aren't any good. Time of use, expectations, and other factors can play a role here, too.

On average, a good-quality, affordable bike will range between $150 and $400. The style, capabilities, and features will drive the price point. For high-quality bikes with all the features and styles, you can expect to pay double that, with a range of $800 to $1200.

The warranties on these bikes are as varied as the prices. The industry average for a decent warranty is about 2- to 5-years. However, there are a lot of 12-month and 90-day warranties for lesser-known brands and less expensive bikes. Some even have warranties that extend a decade or more.

1. Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike

Best Exercise Bike for Seniors

The Schwinn 270 recumbent bike is easily the best recumbent exercise bike for seniors. It is easy to get on, simple to use, and will have you excited to ride again. With a host of features and programs, you can ride every day and have a new experience.

One of the best features of the Schwinn 270 is the ease of entry and exit. The low seat allows you to walk up and have a seat. You can swing your leg through the frame, too, so there is no straddling.

If you can’t swing out and stand up from the side, you can pull yourself to standing and then walk through the machine with ease. It also features a Bluetooth integration with speakers. You can connect your devices and listen to podcasts, workout videos, or just set the resistance and go.

There are 29 preset workout programs included, and each one will test your mettle. However, you don't need to follow them if you don't want to. You can manually adjust the settings on the display panel and just ride how best suits your needs.

The high weight limit and ease of use make this an excellent machine for all riders, but for the seniors among us, it is an exceptional machine that glides through each stroke and makes the entire process such a joy.

2. DeskCycle Under Desk Cycle, Pedal Exerciser

Best Mini Exercise Bike for Seniors

The Under Desk Cycle from DeskCyle is the best portable exercise bike for elderly persons. It fits just about anywhere, including under your desk, table, or in front of the couch. If you have a favorite chair that allows your feet to reach the ground, use it!

This cycle has 8 magnetic resistance settings that allow you to increase your heart rate, burn calories, and tone your leg muscles. Keep active and prevent a sedentary lifestyle with this little guy close by.

At only 23 pounds, you can easily move it where it needs to go. Set your resistance on the large dial wheel, turn the display on, and start pedaling. It is that easy. However, the one issue is that you will need to lean forward and down to increase your resistance.

While you should always start at a resistance level of 1, it can be challenging to stop and turn the dial between your feet to increase the resistance. Once you get used to it, though, this task will become less cumbersome.

The display is easy to read and tracks your RPMs, time on the machine, and calories burned. It is connected with a cable and removable so that you can place it on the desk next to you for easier access.

There isn't any assembly needed, either. Once it is out of the box and you put the included batteries in the display panel, you are ready to go. The 1-year warranty is a little light, but since there aren't many moving parts and virtually no impact on the device, it should hold up and work wonderfully for years to come.

3. Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike ME-709

Best Rated Exercise Bike for Seniors

If you are looking for a popular model, one that gets well-reviewed and has many fans, then the Marcy Recumbent Bike (ME-709) is the one you are looking for. It is highly adjustable, easy to use, and has enough features to keep you occupied and excited to ride for years to come.

The 8-position magnetic resistance will give you all you can handle and keep your workouts fresh. The adjustment is simple to reach and is positioned right on the crossbar.

The seat can also adjust from 27-inches to 37-inches (from seat edge to pedal) to accommodate many different height riders. Once you have your adjustments made, you just need to sit on the seat, put your feet on the pedals, and get to work.

This model doesn’t try to fancy you to death with exotic features. It has just what you need and nothing more. However, it is stylish and easy to look at, so while it is sitting there waiting for the next session, you won’t feel the need to cover it up.

The LCD is bright, easy to read, and features over-sized digits. You can track calories, time, speed, and distance. The 2-year warranty is also nice, and you won't find a better reviewed, highly popular recumbent bike anywhere.

4. Stamina Elite Total Body Recumbent Bike

Best Dual Exercise Bike for Over 50s

The dual-mode recumbent bike from Stamina Elite is a total body workout designed for those over 50. It features all of the standard recumbent bike necessities you would expect, plus hand pedals to incorporate your upper body as well as your lower.

You can use the foot pedals and ride like a standard recumbent bike. The adjustable seat allows you to sit upright and lean back, with the ideal distance from the pedals for your comfort. The handlebars under the seat come equipped with pulse sensors so you can also track your heart rate.

If you want to work out your upper body, you can use the hand pedals to move the bike and add resistance when needed. This is ideal for those needing physical therapy or wanting to incorporate more of their muscle groups in their workouts.

If you want to do both together, you can. You will need to sit forward with a slight lean, or adjust the seat a little further forward, though. The high-vis display shows your heart rate (when using the seat handles), time, distance, and calories.

The warranty is decent, though it only comes with 1-year for the parts. The durable frame is warrantied for 5 years, though, and the walk-through frame does make it much easier to get in and out of the bike.

5. HARISON Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike

Best Stationary Exercise Bike for Senior Citizens

If you need sturdy and reliable, then look no further. The Harison recumbent bike is made of stone. Well, not really, but it will last longer than most rocks. This durable frame and easy to operate adjustments make it a fan favorite and fun to ride.

The high back seat features a mesh back for improved airflow, keeping you cooler longer. It also has a wide padded seat to accommodate users of many sizes up to 350 pounds. The slide rail seat adjustment is one of the smoothest seat adjusters and is so easy to use.

The bike itself is quite heavy at 77 pounds, but most of the weight is in the front. The lift handle in the rear means you only need to lift about 23 pounds. The heavy-duty transport wheel in the front will carry the rest, so storage is a breeze.

With 14 resistance settings, you are sure to find one that challenges you. You can also dial it back at any time and watch your speed, heart rate, distance, and calories fly by on the LCD panel.

The only major downside to this machine is the warranty. They offer a 30-day refund and 12-month replacement warranty, but don’t do much beyond this.

6. JEEKEE Recumbent Exercise Bike

Best Home Exercise Bike for Seniors

For the best indoor exercise bike for seniors, look to JEEKEE. Their recumbent bike is easy to get in and out of, adjusts multiple ways, and has simple controls. Once you are on and started, you will want to stay there. With comfortable seating and user-friendly monitors, it is not only healthy but fun.

The bike has a high max user weight limit and a 9-position adjustable chair, so it will fit people from 5 feet to 6.5 feet tall and anything under 300 pounds. The pedals are wider, too, so you don't need to worry about your feet slipping.

As far as the recumbent bikes go, this is one of the lighter ones, too. It isn't as easy to store as a folding bike, of course, but at 66 pounds, it is easier to move than a lot of other models on this list.

The LCD will display your time, distance, speed, calories burned, and heart rate (if you use the pulse monitors on the handrails). It also comes with a device holder that will fit a tablet or iPad so you can watch movies or follow a workout on your own device.

It doesn’t have any cup holders or a towel rack, though, and you may need those when working out on this machine. It will test you and push you, but within your own control and comfort level, of course.

7. XTERRA Fitness FB150

Best Upright Exercise Bike for Seniors

For the best folding exercise bike for seniors, the Xterra Fitness FB150 has everything you need and nothing you don't. It is compact, easy to use, and fun to ride. What more can you ask for?

How about a lightweight, easy to pedal machine that offers 8 levels of magnetic resistance, along with an easy to reach, simple to turn dial? That’s just for starters. This folding bike also has a small footprint.

It will only take up about 18 inches of floor space when folded, which can be done by just about anyone. The seat is large and extra padded, so you won't become uncomfortable on the days you decide to ride longer.

You also get fully adjustable foot straps and textured pedals so your feet won't slip. All of that in a bike that only weighs 32 pounds, making it ideal for transportation and storage when no tin use. You can also set it up in front of the TV to watch your favorite shows while you get in a cardio workout.

The LCD panel will display your time, distance, calories burned, and heart rate. The monitors on the handlebars are easy to grip and in a position that doesn't make it awkward.

About the only bad thing to say here is that the warranty is a little lacking. With only 90-days guarding the parts and 12 months on the frame, we would like to see more belief in the product. However, most users report no issues during the warranty period and have used it successfully for years without any problems.

Upright Vs. Recumbent Bikes For Older Adults

We mentioned near the top of the article that there are multiple types of exercise bikes available. Here, we will cover two of those three types in greater detail. Because this article is aimed at the best bikes for seniors, we are ignoring indoor cycles.

This type is meant for hard-core cycling, distance, and marathon training and is outside the scope of this article.

Instead, we will look at the other two types, recumbent and upright. The overwhelming favorite is the recumbent bikes. They are comfortable and easy to use. The base is sturdier, and many users find them simple to adjust, get in and out of and have a more relaxing, enjoyable time when in use.

Upright bikes put the rider in a more natural riding position, with a straight back and legs below the body and handlebars in various positions, the rider feels more like they are riding a bike. These frames are durable, and they are easy enough to get on but may pose issues getting off, especially if leg muscles are sore.

When it comes to assembly, both bikes can be a challenge to put together. Smart bikes have a lot of cables and wiring that needs to be routed to the display and speakers. It is highly recommended that you pay for professional assembly if available. If not, you may need two or more people to put the bikes together properly.

Upright bikes, though, usually come in a foldable design. This gives them a smaller footprint while still being durable and sturdy. It also makes storage of the bike much more manageable.

Recumbent bikes tend to be assembled and then stay where they are for use, without being put away or moved for storage purposes.

Both options have advantages and disadvantages for seniors. Whichever type you go with, you won't be disappointed. However, if comfort and ease of access are your main concerns, then recumbent bikes are what you want.

On the other hand, for a more natural riding experience and slightly easier usability, upright bikes, especially the folding style, maybe the better option.

Safety Guide To Indoor Cycling for Seniors

Being safe is always the main factor. When riding a bike, the biggest issue is balance. However, if you have little trouble getting on or off a stationary (upright) bike, then you won't have any issues riding. If balance is a problem, then a recumbent bike is the safest option.

When riding, you want to ensure you start at the lowest resistance. Even if you increase slowly as you ride, start with a resistance setting of 1 (or low) and gradually increase according to your comfort levels. Starting with a higher resistance and jolt the muscles and shock the joints, which can cause health issues in older persons.

For the actual riding exercise, it is best to follow a regime. You want to use the bike to increase cardiovascular health and muscle tone. However, a leisure pedal isn’t going to have many health benefits.

There are many apps and programs available, but you can also find free workouts online. Such as this 20-minute exercise video here aimed specifically at seniors for riding on their in-home bikes. It is presented by Vive Health and covers set up and safety issues before you begin.

Common Exercise Bike For Seniors Questions

Is a Peloton bike good for seniors? Do they have workouts for seniors?

Peleton can be a great bike workout for seniors as long as precautions are made first and the rider understands what they are about to embark on. While Peleton doesn't have specific app workouts for seniors, there are a few gyms scattered around that use Peloton workouts and tailor them for older riders.

How long should seniors workout on an exercise bike?

The World Health Organization recommends that you do a minimum of 150 minutes of cardio workouts per week. This is a minimum, of course, but if you ride your bike for 25 minutes per day, you will meet this minimum requirement and be ready for more as you improve your cardiovascular fitness and overall health.

What other exercises are good for seniors?

As we age, the types of exercises we can accomplish safely grows less and less. Besides an exercise bike, you will want to focus on low-impact activities such as walking or even a brisk walk (low jog) on a treadmill. You can also lift light weights or use cable equipment such as a rowing machine on the lightest weight or lowest resistances.

Where is the best place to buy these exercise bikes for seniors?

You can purchase exercise bikes anywhere sporting goods and health services are offered. Dick's Sporting Goods, Academy Sports, and even Walmart will carry some exercise bikes. The best place, though, is through Amazon, where you have a larger selection, and most bikes come with an option for in-home assembly, expedited shipping, and other cost-saving features.

Conclusion

Finding the best exercise bike for seniors can be difficult. There are a lot of brands and bike types on the market to wade through. You want a bike that is easy to mount and dismount, but also one that is durable, safe, and easy to use.

Now that you are armed with all the information to make a perfect decision, finding that ideal bike shouldn't be a challenge. If it is, take another look at our top pick. The Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike meets all the requirements and needs for seniors and is built to last, regardless of how often it is used.