Have those Peloton ads made you think you need to spend thousands on an indoor bike to get a great workout? I used to think the same — until I discovered some amazing indoor cycles that cost under $1000 (and even under $500!) but still give an incredible ride.
Let me show you my top picks!
But First, Why Trust Us?
Our team consists of two experienced, full-time, indoor cycling instructors with a lot of experience; they have used dozens of different indoor cycles throughout their career but also as tester of IndoorCyclingLove. We never propose a bike if we haven’t tested it ourselves and you can find the review and video review of every bike in this guide if you check our Product Review Section.
My 3 Best Cheap Top Picks that I’ve Personally Tested
Current Deal on Budget Spin Bikes
1. The most classic choice: Bowflex C6 (usually under $800)
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®.
The Bowflex C6 has been an excellent addition to my workouts and is my main bike from 2020! While I usually prefer bikes with friction resistance for their natural feel, the magnetic resistance on the C6 has grown on me, providing smooth, quiet rides. I frequently use it with the Peloton® digital app, and I love how seamlessly it performs across different cycling apps. Its quiet operation allows me to work out anytime without disturbing my household—a big plus! Its adjustability is perfect for shorter riders like me, with handlebars that move closer to the saddle for comfort. I also appreciate the SPD-compatible pedals, which let me use my studio cleats at home.
Images from My Hands-on Testing
2. An Affordable Bike That Actually Delivers: Yosuda Magnetic Plus
Solid frame, smooth ride, easy setup. The Yosuda Magnetic Plus Exercise Bike (Formerly YB001R) keeps things simple and affordable, making it a great entry-level choice.
The Yosuda Magnetic Plus (formerly YB001R) gives you smooth magnetic resistance that you can easily adjust by turning the knob, but the bike doesn’t actually show you which level you’re on. There’s no number, scale, or indicator on the screen or the knob itself. So while you can make the ride harder or easier whenever you want, you won’t see a specific resistance level but you simply turn the knob until it feels right. This is totally normal for budget-friendly indoor bikes, but it’s something to keep in mind if you like tracking exact resistance during your workouts.
Images from My Hands-on Testing
3. Our YouTube Channel Main Bike: Sunny SF-B1709
Not only does it look great, but it offers such a lovely ride, and the experience it gives is very personal and does feel like a spin bike, not a cheap exercise bike.
The review of this bike was conducted by Robbie Ferri, a cycling instructor from our team who have produced dozens of videos in our channel with his Sunny SF-B1709 (you can also read his detailed review of the SF-B1709).
Robbie found that the Sunny SF-B1709 provides a top-notch riding experience with silky-smooth performance, a handy resistance lever, and solid power handling. He noted that it’s built like a tank with zero rattling, proving its durability despite initial price concerns. While assembly seems intimidating, Robbie found it surprisingly simple, taking about 30 minutes with clear instructions. He appreciated the bike’s adjustability but felt the saddle might not suit everyone. Connectivity is limited, but workarounds exist for fitness apps, and power meter pedals can enhance tracking. With solid customer service, financing options, and a decent warranty, Robbie calls this bike an absolute steal at just $400 with free shipping!
Images from the Hands-on Testing
What Makes A Good, Affordable Spin Bike?
When I used to travel a lot for work, I spent a lot of time in the fitness centers located in my hotel. Unfortunately, often the equipment was less than stellar, and the indoor cycling bikes provided a jerky pedal stroke. I feel the most crucial feature is the smoothness of the ride. If the pedal stroke is not fluid, it not only is hard on joints but makes the ride itself unenjoyable. Let’s look at a few features that help provide a smooth pedal stroke in addition to other great characteristics.
Key Features of a Great Indoor Cycle:
The Bottom Line
There are affordable indoor cycling bikes on the market, but it is important to vet your options before purchasing through research and test riding specific models if possible. A few minutes on a potential bike can provide great insight on if it is the ride option for you.
Could any of those bike’s pedals be switched out for caged/SPD pedals?
Hi!
Yes, based on the manufacturers every of these spin bikes have a standard pedal type and you can easily change it with SPD pedals if you want. Check out our guide and video on how to change the pedals easily!
Could any of those bike’s pedals be switched out for caged/SPD pedals?
Hi!
Yes, based on the manufacturers every of these spin bikes have a standard pedal type and you can easily change it with SPD pedals if you want. Check out our guide and video on how to change the pedals easily!