Best Spin Bike Reviews And Indoor Bike Comparisons For 2021
Spinning can be a little intimidating at first, but you shouldn’t be discouraged by this. Indoor cycling is an amazing cardio workout that will allow you to engage your entire body and help you lose from 300 to 1200 calories per hour of workout. This is reason enough to get the best indoor cycling bikes.
However, the choice is not simple. You want your indoor spin bike to be perfect for you, and you’ll also need home cycling clothing to be comfortable. So, getting into spinning is a bit of an investment, but it doesn’t need to break the bank.
Spinning will help you reach weight loss and fitness goals a lot faster than other kinds of exercises, so you should definitely give it a shot. If you’re seriously considering getting your very own indoor spin bike, this buying guide will set you on the right path.
We have picked indoor cycling bikes in several different price categories. Our best indoor bike reviews include spin bikes in all price ranges from $200 to $300. With no further ado, here are our picks of best-rated spin bikes in 2021:
Best Spin Bike Accessories and Clothing
Best Spin Bikes By Price and Countries
BEMH's Top 4 Spin Bike Picks!
To help you out narrow down the options, here are 3 of the best spin bikes you can find on Amazon. Each of these spin bikes has a ton of value to offer and they could be the perfect option for you. Consider all their features, and determine whether or not they’re a good fit for you and your fitness goals.
NordicTrack S22i Indoor Bike
An Affordable and better value from the Peloton, we have the NordicTrack S22i indoor bike. The S22i stands tall with some state-of-the-art functionality and 1-year of free iFit Family Membership that worths $400 (after the free year, you can renew with iFit individual that costs $150 per year).
Same as the S15i, the S22i comes with an HD incorporated 22″ display that provides an incorporated HDMI port, USB charing port, cooling fan, and speakers. Via this smart monitor, you could access training and coaching content via iFit fitness apps.
The NordicTrack S22i packs a 24 level electronically adjustable magnetic resistance feature alongside a 32-lb heavy flywheel, useful for smooth pedalling resistance. It has a net weight of 170 lbs and supports a weight limit of 350 lbs, more than the Peloton. It has an adjustable seat of multi levels, with 15mm interlevel spanning.
The handlebar packs 9 adjustable levels with 15mm interlevel spanning for a wider range of personalised adjustments. Although it doesn’t the most comfortable seats, but that’s a cheap and easy fix with seat cushion or seat replacement. It is built narrow to allow for a wider range of motion while you work out.
It doesn’t have the Peloton’s lipless pedals (it only has toe-cage pedals. However, when it comes to pricing, it is safe to say the S22i comes cheaper than the Peloton bikes. As of the time of writing of this article, the brands offer the NordicTrack S22i for $1999 on Amazon and the S15i with 15″ screen for $1600. That is quite a discount, and this bike will get the job done quite nicely. Also, with a relatively small yearly fee ($150), you can have access to a ton of virtual classes and coaching as you ride on your indoor bike and NordicTrack S22i Spin Bike.
Overall the S22i packs quite a punch, for the price range. Being cheaper than the Peloton bike, even with 1-year free iFit membership, incline and decline setting to mimic uphill and downhills, the S22i is an option for those who desire the experience of the Peloton, plus extra cool features, without paying the crazy Peloton app fee and the Peloton bike price.
Keiser M3i Indoor Cycling Bike
The only bike completely made in the United States and the most expensive option on this list is the Keiser M3i indoor bike, and it’s a great bundle for the money. You don’t only get the Keiser M3i indoor spin cycle, you also get a floor mat, stretch pads, and a media tray. One of the most special things about this indoor spin bike is that it’s the industry’s first v-shaped frame, which mimics road bike frames by allowing the bike seat and the handlebars to be raised at the same time so riders of all sizes can make the most of it.
The Keiser M3i has a simple, elegant design that’s durable, sturdy, and maintenance-free. It will look amazing in your home and it provides all the features you need to reach your weight loss and fitness goals. Extra features include Bluetooth-enabled interactive cycle, which means you can download the app and have access to real-time graphs for heart rate, FTP zones, and power. This broadens the limits of your workouts tremendously.
The Keiser M3i is the kind of indoor spin bike you should get if you’re serious about spinning. It’s definitely an investment, but it will last for a lifetime if you take good care of it, which is not difficult to do. The design is lovely, you’ll be able to use it every day, and it will allow you to explore your own limits. You can use this spin bike to reach your goals and then some, so don’t hesitate to consider it.
This indoor cycle bundle is the perfect addition to your home if you’re thinking about taking your weight loss goals and fitness goals more seriously. It doesn’t only include a high-quality spin bike that provides all the features you need for a great spinning workout, it also provides other essential items to make your exercise routine complete.
Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike
Next, we have the Schwinn IC4 indoor bike, which is another top-rated affordable option. It’s a great choice if you’re thinking about the long-term indoor cycling. This spin bike has a 40-pound aluminum and high alloy steel flywheel and it’s weighted for high inertia. It also features a magnetic resistance and belt drive mechanism that requires less maintenance and provides silent pedalling. The resistance is particularly important if you don’t want to disturb anyone during your workouts so you can get spinning at any time of the day.
The 90mm q-factor offers superior biomechanics which means you’ll get to enjoy greater comfort and higher efficiency. The patented seat and handlebars ensure the posts will stay in place for the duration of your workout. The posts are made of high-grade steel with lever adjustment, which makes them rust resistance and easier for you to adjust them. This spin bike also features both front and back foot levelers so you can be a lot more stable.
The advanced ergonomic design provides a comfortable ride. The handlebars allow for multiple hand positions, the dual-sided pedals are compatible with cycling shoes for more comfort, and the parallel seat rails run along the underside which leaves the middle hallow to provide greater adaptability and comfort.
Why the IC4 is one our top 4 picks among nearly 300 spin bikes? This magnetic resistance spin bike by Schwinn is unbeatable in terms of value for money. There is no other indoor cycling bike in this price class, that offers Bluetooth monitor that connects to most cycling apps, dumbbell holders, excellent design, and silent resistance.
This spin bike is sturdy and designed to perform at superior levels. This makes it perfect for high-intensity training, which is exactly how you’ll be able to lose weight faster. This indoor bike is perfectly balanced, provides a smooth ride, and you’ll be able to adjust it perfectly for your height without any issues. It also features adjustable resistance, cup holders for your water bottle, foot cage SPD pedals, and more, making this a high-quality, complete spin bike that will accompany you for a lifetime.
MaxKare Indoor Cycling Bike
Last but not least, we have a budget, more basic spin bike option for people who are not thinking about the long-run and want to start spinning now. The MaxKare exercise bike offers great value at an affordable price. This spin bike is built with a magnetic tension control system that includes 5 magnets you can use to customize your workout tension levels.
Tension levels are what allow you to have an easy or challenging workout, depending on how you set it. The ergonomic magnetic resistance design of the MaxKare spin bike provides a smooth ride and a quiet workout, which is important when you’re working out at home. The last thing you want is to disturb anyone and you also want to be able to workout at any time of the day.
This spin bike also features a resistance system that needs virtually no maintenance and will never wear out. This means that even though it’s one of the budget spin bikes, it will still last you for a long while. Meaning you can reach your short-term weight loss and fitness goals, and still continue the spinning habit long after that.
The extra features on this spin bike include an LCD monitor so you can keep an eye on your time, distance, speed, pulse, calories burned, RPM, etc. There’s also a tablet phone bracket that will hold your mobile devices safely so you can watch movies, TV shows, or anything you want while you’re exercising.
Another great feature about this indoor spin bike is its heavy-duty triangle-type frame, and its quiet flywheel, which ensures high stability. This sturdy frame can support up to 264 pounds, and the flywheel will allow for different tension levels so you can adjust the intensity of your workout however you see fit. You can also adjust your seat and your handlebars however you want to make sure you’re comfortable during your ride.
Overall, this indoor spin bike provides everything you need to start spinning without having to break the bank. It’s sturdy enough to last you for a long time, which means you will get a ton of use out of it.
Best Spin Bikes Compared By BEMH
| NAME | VERDICT | MONITOR | APPLICATIONS | INCLINE | WEIGHT | INSEAM | RESISTANCE | DRIVE | WEIGHTS | PEDALS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NordicTrack S22I Indoor Cycling Bike | It's a great value indoor bike | 22" touch, HDMI Port, USB Charger, Watt, RPM, Resistance, Distance, Calories, HR, Bluetooth and WiFi | Only compatible with iFit and comes w/ 1-year free membership | Incline and decline | 350-Lb Max | 27″ Min - 40 Max | 24-Level Magnetic Resistance | Poly-V Belt | Yes, Includes dumbbells | Toe-Cage |
| Keiser M3i Indoor Cycling Bike | Expensive but excellent quality | Blue Backlit, Watt, RPM, Speed Resistance, Distance, Calories, HR, and Bluetooth | Compatible with most cycling apps (but requires Keiser Converter) | No incline or decline | 300-Lb Max | 4'10″ Min - 6'7″ Max | 24-Level Magnetic Resistance | Poly-V Belt | No | Dual-sided SPD pedals |
| Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike | Best value bike in its price class | RPM, Resistance, Speed, Distance, Calories, HR, and Bluetooth | Compatible with most cycling apps without additional accessories | No incline or decline | 330-Lb Max | 5’1″ Min 7’0″ Max | 100-Increment Magnetic Resistance | Poly-V Belt | Yes, Includes dumbbells | Dual-sided SPD pedals |
| Maxkare Indoor Cycling Bike | Basic but a great value indoor cycle | Distance, Time, Calories, and Heart Rate | Not compatible with any cycling applications | No incline or decline | 264-Lb Max | 27.5″ Min 36″ Max | Multiple Magnetic Resistance Levels | Poly-V Belt | No | Toe-Cage |
How to Choose the Best Spin Bike
Spinning has become more and more popular, not just among people who want to get in shape and have a healthier lifestyle. But also for athletes all over the world. The truth is that spinning promotes safe weight loss that’s quick, so the results are really evident in a short time. An hour of spinning helps you burn anywhere from 300 to 1200 calories, depending on your fitness level, age, and gender.
So, if you want to get into spinning but you don’t want to join a gym, getting your own spin bike is the way to go. This is also a great idea if you’re already committed to spinning and you want to save money in the long run.
However, purchasing the right spin bike is not as straightforward as finding one you like. There are some criteria you should keep in mind to find the perfect spin bike for you. Every model has its advantages and disadvantages, to understand them, you need to have a basic knowledge of what makes a great spin bike.
Your personal needs and goals will determine what kind of spin bike you should get. For example, if you want to lose weight quickly and you don’t have any long-term needs, you can purchase an inexpensive model. Lower-quality spin bikes will last for a few years, and they’re a good choice for people who will not use it on a daily basis.
However, if you’re a bit more dedicated to your fitness and you have long-term goals to achieve, you’ll want to purchase a high-quality spin bike. This would be an investment, but it will be worth it if you plan on using it every day. They are sturdy, so they will last you for a lifetime if you maintain them properly.
When you’re browsing for a spin bike, it’s important you consider features. If you’re good with a basic spin bike, then you will get nothing but the saddle, the pedals, and the handlebars. However, more complete models will include extra features such as multi-function spin bike monitors that track heart rate, RPM, speed, and more.
Three crucial features that your spin bike needs is a balanced flywheel, belt transmission, and magnetic resistance. The combinations of these features provide momentum, silent workout, and engages your muscles when you’re spinning.
Often the heavier the flywheel, the more challenging your workout will be, so make sure you choose a model with the right weight for you. Basic models come with a 20 to 35-pound flywheel, while more expensive models can go over 40 pounds.
You should also keep an eye on brake mechanisms and other features that will contribute to your workout. Overall, the only way to make the right choice is to do your research and read reviews until you find the model that adapts to your needs the best.
Indoor Cycling Exercise Benefits
Indoor cycling classes are super challenging, and, to be honest, a little bit intimidating. Not to mention that not everyone enjoys going to the gym, and in the long-term, it can be a lot more expensive than getting your own spin bike. If you do decide to get your own indoor bike, you will be in charge of your workout experience and you won’t even have to get out of the house to get your daily exercise and burn a whole bunch of calories.
The full benefits of spinning will be enjoyed only if you make a true commitment. You’ll need 3 to 6 sessions a week of at least an hour each. This will help you not only reach your weight loss and fitness goals but also make the most of your spin bike. It’s recommended that you keep a journal or use an app to track your progress. Only this way will you be able to see results. After a few weeks, you will begin seeing results, and after that you will need to keep up with your routine to maintain results.
Now, spinning is super beneficial for many reasons. The first one being that it’s a full-body cardio workout that will engage all major muscle groups at once. This is why it’s such a powerful exercise. You can adjust the intensity of the workout to your resistance, but make sure you’re constantly challenging yourself. This way you will get results faster and you’ll make the most of your spinning.
The cardiovascular benefits of spinning are undeniable, so if you want to improve your cardiovascular health, make this exercise a part of your routine. Indoor cycling is similar to running, elliptical training, and swimming. This means it’s a great cardio workout for people who don’t want or can’t put too much stress on their joints. Improving your physical fitness means you must take care of yourself in the process, so make sure you always have the right posture on your indoor bike.
Another important benefit provided by spinning is the fact that it will help you burn many calories per session. Of course, the number of calories you burn will depend on the difficulty and the duration of your sessions, as well as factors such as age, gender, resistance, etc.
However, you can burn anywhere between 300 and 600 calories per session. The number can even go up to 1200 calories, which is quite a lot. If you do your sessions every day, imagine how many calories you’ll be able to burn per week. Couple that with a balanced diet, and your dream body won’t be that far away.
Indoor cycling will engage every major muscle group in your body. You will use your core to remain stable on the bike, this will lead to better balance overall and it will allow you to burn belly fat as well.
The upper body is also engaged because you use it to support yourself on the bike. If you want to increase the challenge of your spinning session, you can incorporate upper-body exercises. Many classes do this at the gym, so you can definitely do your research and incorporate this extra challenge with resistance bands or dumbbells.
Your back will also be made stronger by your spinning exercise because it’s important to maintain a stable spine during the exercise. Having the right posture will help you tone your back muscles and also avoid back pain. Not to mention this will improve your posture in general.
Of course, your glutes will work with each pump, especially if you go through the session standing up or doing an incline. The more you increase your resistance, the more your legs will work, so make sure you do your exercise with intention.
Quadriceps are also engaged in spinning exercises because this is the main muscle used to pedal. This will lead to stronger, more toned legs, which you’ll be happy about once you start noticing the improvement. Hamstrings will also strengthen and they’ll become more loosened as a result of spinning sessions.
Last but not least, your lower legs also get a good workout because you use your calves on each pedal. Stronger calves will protect your ankles and feet on a daily basis. So, overall, spinning sessions will engage your entire body and make every muscle group stronger and more toned. This is why it’s such a beneficial exercise and the main reason it has grown to be so popular in recent years.
Everyone has gone to a spin class at least once, and the people who have loved it and committed to it, swear by it. This is an effective weight-loss method and an effective way to become stronger and more fit. If you truly want to engage with it and see the results, you’ll want to get your own spin bike and make spinning a part of your routine for good.
Spinning Clothing and Accessories
Spinning clothing and accessories are another important part of spinning. Feeling good and comfortable in your clothes is essential in your weight loss journey. Believe it or not, clothes truly have an impact on your motivation. Not to mention clothing allows us to get in the right mindset. When we dress for work we feel different than when we dress to go out. Clothes have a huge impact on our psyche, which is why we must use it to our advantage.
More than that, you will need the right gear to make sure you get the most out of spinning sessions. The most important item is actually the shoes because they need to connect you with a bike in such a way that you feel comfortable and stable. We recommend you get shoes that are specific for spinning. Once you find the right spinning clothes and shoes, you can choose the right accessories to tie things together.
When it comes to spinning apparel, it’s important to choose the right materials. Remember spinning is a cardio exercise, which means things will definitely heat up and you’ll break quite the sweat. The last thing you want to wear is cotton because it will hold the water in and make it harder for your body to regulate temperature during the session.
The right materials for your spinning apparel are a mix of spandex, polyester, and nylon. Find the clothing items that you’re most comfortable with. Remember you’ll be at home, so you can wear padded spinning shorts, leggings, tanks, tops, or even baggy MTB shorts for cycling. Just make sure they’re made of breathable material that will allow you to be comfortable even when you’re bringing your body to the limit.
When it comes to shoes, it’s important to pick the right ones. Remember your shoes will connect you with the bike, so they’re the most important piece of gear. You want a pair of shoes with a stiff sole, so you can easily transfer your power to the pedals. Also, make sure they’re the right size for you! Your toes will need a bit of room, the closures also need to be secure, and you want to make sure they don’t affect your natural alignment.
There are a ton of spinning shoes to choose from, so make sure you take your time and find the right ones for you. Once you have your apparel and your shoes, you can complete your outfit with different accessories. Such as a towel, a headband, comfortable socks, etc. The more comfortable you feel during your spinning session, the better.
Make spinning a conscious activity; this is the key to enjoying its many benefits. If you don’t feel good during your sessions, you will quit long before you see any results. That’s why you need to make sure you take this seriously. Make every decision conscious, from what you wear, to the intensity and duration of each of your sessions. The more you get on the right mindset, the better the results you’ll obtain!
