Written by Tyler DiGiovanni | BSBM
Fact checked by Kirsten Yovino, CPT Brookbush Institute
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Getting in a cardio workout is one of the most important activities you can do to keep yourself healthy into your elder years.
Many people these days think of the treadmill, rowing machine, or elliptical machine as the go-to exercise equipment. But maybe it's time to consider the recumbent exercise bike as the premier cardio machine for seniors.
Read on to find out our top 7 picks for the best recumbent bikes for seniors.
7 Best Recumbent Bikes For Seniors
- Overall Best: Comfort R
- Runner Up: Schwinn 290
- Budget Pick: Marcy ME-709
- Amazon Pick: Sunny Health Recumbent Bike
- Folding Pick: Exerpeutic 400XL
- For Seniors With Back Issues: Elite RB
- For Seniors With Arthritis: Nautilus r616
SFS Pick
Comfort R
SFS Runner Up Pick
Schwinn 290
SFS Budget Pick
Marcy ME-709
1. Overall Best Recumbent Bike For Seniors: Comfort R
The Comfort R Recumbent Bike from Horizon Fitness is our best overall pick. The Comfort R is a Step-Thru recumbent bicycle, meaning getting into position to use this piece of fitness equipment is easy, especially for seniors that may have limited mobility.
Users only need to be able to step over the low-to-the-ground frame to mount this recumbent bike.
The Horizon Fitness recumbent bike contains a 15.4 lb flywheel which helps keep the pedaling momentum going. This is an extremely important feature, especially when talking about recumbent bikes for seniors.
Providing a smooth, consistent pedal stroke can help cut down on unwanted fatigue and allow workouts to go for as long as they are supposed to.
The adjustable padded seat has an oversized back pad with built-in lumbar support, making for an extremely comfortable recumbent bike. On the side of the seat are handles that also pull double duty as heart rate monitors.
The seat saddle can be adjusted horizontally to find the perfect position for any user, regardless of size. That size statement includes weight as well, the Comfort R has a study 350 lb weight capacity.
The Horizon Fitness recumbent bike comes equipped with a 5.5-inch LCD screen where you can easily choose from the twelve different workout programs. Users from all levels of fitness will be able to find the perfect program for them.
Along with the twelve different workout program options, this recumbent bike comes with sixteen levels of magnetic resistance for even further customization.
The LCD monitor also displays several workout metrics for real-time monitoring.
Other added benefits of this particular recumbent bike include the water bottle holder, built-in speakers, reading rack, and self-balancing pedals.
The pedals also come with adjustable straps, ensuring a secure and comfortable bike riding experience.
Some seniors may need a hand getting this bike set up, which can be done in as little as 30 minutes. Also, this bike does have a convenient built-in handle which makes using the transport wheels much easier.
That being said, the bike has a sturdy frame weighing in at 99 lb, so some assistance may be needed to get this bike into position.
This exercise bike comes with a lifetime frame warranty, 1-year warranty on labor, and 1-year on parts. The warranty for parts could have been a little longer to sweeten the deal, but overall the warranty is a pretty good added value.
At the time of the writing of this article, the Horizon Fitness Comfort R Recumbent Bike is available for around $900.
Pros
- Step-Thru design for easy onboarding and offboarding
- High program and resistance variability
- Oversized comfortable seat
Cons
- The parts section of the warranty could stand to be a little longer
- The total weight of the recumbent bike could be difficult to move for some seniors
The Horizon Comfort R is the exercise bike that anyone can ride. The fully adjustable saddle and ergonomic grips mean that you’ll get a smooth and comfortable workout fitted to your needs and your body...
2. Runner Up Best Recumbent Bike For Seniors: Schwinn 290
Our 2nd place finisher for best recumbent bikes for seniors is the Schwinn 290.
Just like our top finisher, the 290 features a walk-through frame for easy accessibility, which is ideal for seniors that may have issues stepping over moderate to high obstacles.
This exercise bike comes equipped with a 13 lb flywheel that will help keep a smooth pedaling stroke. It isn't as heavy as our top pick but it will still give adequate weight to keep momentum.
Also since this is geared toward seniors, it should be noted that heavier flywheels are more important for people trying to get the highest resistance possible.
The seat saddle features a large contoured cushioned seat bottom, and a ventilated seat back with lumbar support to help you cool during your workouts.
On the side of the seat are two hand grips that double as heart rate monitors as well. The Schwinn 290 has a horizontally adjustable seat, and a weight capacity of 330 lb.
This recumbent bike features the a 7" LCD monitor. This screen allows you to keep track of up to thirteen different display feedback information.
The 290 has one of the best recumbent exercise bike workout assortments on the market with 13 built-in programs and a virtually unlimited amount on the JRNY app!
Any information you could want about your workout is easily seen on this large screen. Also on the console are ten quick resistance buttons that allow you to easily jump around between the twenty-five resistance levels.
Like other recumbent stationary bikes the 290 features Bluetooth connectivity that can connect with certain fitness apps on your phone. This may not be specifically for seniors, but this recumbent bike is also VR compatible with the Schwinn JRNY app.
You can also take advantage of Bluetooth by playing music or any media of your choice through the sealed acoustic chamber speakers which can pump you up for a great lower body workout.
The 290 is also compatible with Polar heart rate chest straps for an extremely accurate heart rate measurement. Another feature not available on other recumbent bikes is the built-in three speed fan, which can really make a huge difference in keeping you cool during a workout.
Setting this sturdy bike up can be a bit time consuming, and Schwinn recommends using two people to do the job. This exercise bike weighs a total of 107.6 lb when all set up but does have transport wheels and a handle to make maneuvering it into place a little simpler.
The 290 comes with a ten year frame warranty, two year parts warranty, one year electronics warranty, and 90 day labor warranty.
The Schwinn 290 will set you back less than $900, which is a great price for a recumbent bike that offers as many features as it does.
Pros
- Walk through frame design
- Twenty nine pre programmed workout routines and twenty five resistance levels
- Ventilated seat back and built-in fan
Cons
- Hand grip heart rate monitors not always reliable
- Assembly can be a bit challenging
With the Schwinn® 290 Recumbent Bike, cardio workouts are anything but routine. From dozens of programs and levels of resistance to Bluetooth® connectivity and Explore the World™ compatibility...
3. Best Budget Recumbent Bike For Seniors: Marcy ME-709
Our pick for best budget recumbent bike goes to the Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike.
The Marcy ME-709 has a walk through style 14-gauge steel tube frame for easy access getting on and off this exercise bike.
There isn't any solid information on the weight of the flywheel, but for the price, it is safe to assume it is not on the heavier side so a little more effort may be needed.
As for difficulty, this bike has eight magnetic resistance levels that are easily changed with a turn of a knob that is located under the display monitor.
The seat saddle is made with a high density foam and features a 19 inch back rest. Along the seat are two ergonomic handles for a comfortable place to keep your hands while using the exercise bike.
The seat itself is not adjustable, instead you would need to move the entire frame closer together or farther apart.
As you may expect from budget recumbent bikes, this one does not have any onboard workout programs.
That being said, if this bike is exclusively being used by seniors, then a preprogrammed intense workout program probably isn't something that would be getting a whole bunch of use anyway.
The ME-709 does have a LCD display with easily readable screen to get several pieces of workout information. On the monitor you can scroll through the elapsed time, distance traveled, current speed, calories burned, and odometer. The monitor runs on two AA batteries.
The Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike is the definition of a no-frills bike.
What this bike does have is self-correcting foot pedals and adjustable pedal straps to keep you locked in.
As far as assembly for recumbent exercise bikes go, the ME-709 is generally seen as pretty simple to set up and can be done by a single person.
Once it is all set up, it weighs a total of 61 lb and boasts a 300 lb weight capacity.
There are wheels on the front that can be used to move the bike around, but no designated handle, which isn't too big of a deal since there are several places to hold on from.
The frame is covered by a two-year warranty and everything else is covered by a one-year warranty. Given its very low price, the warranty length should not be a surprise to anyone.
This is a great option for an exercise bike for seniors on a fixed income with the very low price under $200.
Pros
- Very low price
- Straight-forward design
- Walk through frame
Cons
- No heart rate monitor
- Seat adjustment could be difficult for some
This stationary bike uses a magnetic resistance mechanism with 8 levels of resistance. The tension knobs control the difficulty to simulate riding on different terrains...
4. Best Recumbent Bike For Seniors On Amazon: Sunny Health Recumbent Bike
Our pick for best exercise bike for seniors you can get on Amazon is the Sunny Health Recumbent Bike.
The Sunny Health recumbent bicycles are made with a walk through frame like all of the previous entries on this list.
The Sunny Health recumbent bike comes with a light 6 lb flywheel, which is not going to give you much momentum, but should be enough to make sure that the initial pedal isn't too rough. The drive mechanism is belt driven which should provide a quiet ride.
The comfortable adjustable seat measures in at 14.5 inches wide and 11 inches long, which should provide ample room for most users and the seat back measures in at approximately 17 inches long which should be sufficient back support as well.
The distance from the seat to the pedals can be easily adjusted from the seated position, putting you in the perfect spot. The handles on the side of the seat are equipped with pulse sensors, making it easy to keep an eye on your heart rate.
The Sunny recumbent bicycle does not come with any onboard workout programs, but when we get to the price it will be easy to understand why.
As far as the display goes, the non-backlit digital monitor is fairly basic and easy to understand and runs on two AAA batteries. There are seven different metrics that can be displayed one at a time.
This recumbent exercise bike is a little light on features but what it does include are transportation wheels, self-leveling pedals with adjustable straps, and eight magnetic resistance levels which are changed by turning a knob under the monitor.
You can expect assembly to take about an hour, which is a very reasonable amount of time when compared to many recumbent bikes.
When fully assembled, this exercise bike weighs 58.7 lb and has a weight capacity of 300 lb, which makes it a very appealing exercise bike for seniors.
The warranty is a three-year structural warranty and 90 days for parts and components. While the warranty could be better, the price only being around $200 is a great selling point.
Pros
- Relatively low weight which could be helpful if needed to be moved
- Walk through frame
- Digital monitor is extremely simple and easy to understand
Cons
- Non-backlit monitor needs a well lit room to be seen
- The seat is a little thin at 1.5 inches thick
Exclusive easy seat adjustment allows you to make seat adjustments, hassle-free, all done while remaining seated on the bike. Large seat and back cushion with self leveling pedals with straps...
5. Best Folding Recumbent Bike For Seniors: Exerpeutic 400XL
Our pick for best folding exercise bike is the Exerpeutic 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike.
Due to its folding nature, this recumbent bike is not a walk through and will require a little more effort to get the users leg over to the pedals.
One aspect of the frame that falls into a positive is that it's possible for the 400XL Folding Recumbent Bike to fit underneath an adjustable desk, theoretically letting the user be able to do other activities while exercising.
The flywheel is small but is paired with a V-belt double-drive transmission system for an extremely quiet ride. The belt drive is paired with eight levels of magnetic resistance for a good amount of variety.
The padded seat and back rest on this recumbent bike are extremely comfortable and can handle users up to 300 lb. Like most recumbent bikes, this one has heart rate sensors built into the handles on each side of the seat.
As you might expect, this recumbent bike doesn't come with preprogrammed workouts, but once again most exercise bikes for seniors don't necessarily need them anyway.
The LCD screen sits between your feet just above the pedals, which is different than the usual spot of approximately eye level.
The basic display gives you the options to view your distance, calories, time, speed, and heart rate. With only one button on the console, technology wise this exercise bike is very user friendly.
The biggest feature the Exerpeutic 400xl Folding Recumbent Bike has is exactly what's in its name, folding. Now this recumbent exercise bike might not fold up the way you think, instead of collapsing down, the base actually gets closer together.
This results in the base length going from 33 inches long in workout mode to about 17 inches long when put into storage mode. So the footprint gets smaller, but the height of the bike rises.
The self-balancing pedals are equipped with adjustable straps.
Setting up this bike is fairly straight forward with the provided detailed instructions. This recumbent exercise bike does come with transportation wheels, but some users may not feel the need to use them due to this product only weighing 39 lb.
This bike is lacking a bit in the warranty department, with a one-year limited warranty.
The lack of a long term warranty does play into the price of this bike, coming in at a low price.
Pros
- When folded this bike should be able to easily fit in a coat closet
- Extremely light at 39 lb
- Low price
Cons
- Not a walk through style frame
- The warranty leaves a lot to be desired
Foldable recumbent exercise bike with quiet V-belt double-drive transmission system. Precision-balanced flywheel; 8-level adjustable magnetic tension control system...
6. Best Recumbent Bike For Seniors With Back Issues: Elite RB
The Elite RB is our pick for best recumbent bike for seniors with back issues for good reason.
The Elite RB features a step through frame, although the step through portion is higher than other frames on our list.
The flywheel is not the heaviest on our list, but working with the three piece cranks, commercial grade servo motors, and Eddy Current Braking Systems, will make this feel like one of the best recumbent bikes you have ever ridden.
The unbelievably comfortable seat is where these exercise bikes really shine. With an Infinite Airflow Mesh Flex seat back that can also recline which you don't even see on most of the best exercise bikes.
This is one of the larger recumbent bikes with an extra wide seat that can also be adjusted horizontally accommodating users from 5' all the way up to 6'5".
Something else that makes this seat unlike most others is the tilt control, allowing you to find the ideal angle for your workout.
This bike comes loaded with twelve workout programs, including three heart rate interactive programs. Adding to the versatility are the sixteen magnetic resistance levels.
The high quality LCD screen displays several real-time metrics and gives feedback on which program is being used amongst other things.
This has to be one of the best recumbent stationary bikes around just purely by its gorgeous design and features such as a water bottle holder, dial control for the console, included heart rate strap, built-in transport handle and wheels, and much more.
The step by step instructions make set up extremely easy, but older users or users suffering from pain issues might want to enlist help due to the fully assembled bike weighing in at 137 lb. But that solid frame will handle up to 350 lb users.
The warranty for 3G Cardio recumbent bikes are fantastic with a lifetime frame warranty, seven year parts warranty, and one year labor warranty.
As this is one of the best recumbent bikes on the market, the price tag matches that fact as well coming in at over $1,500.
Pros
- Highly adjustable seat for ultimate comfort
- Included heart rate strap
- Super smooth pedal stroke
Cons
- The step through portion isn't as close to the ground as other exercise bikes
- The price is pretty significant
The 3G Cardio Elite RB is the most comfortable recumbent bike you will ever use! Low height electronics display so you can easily view over and around the console...
7. Best Recumbent Bike For Seniors With Arthritis: Nautilus R616
The Nautilus R616 recumbent bike comes with a walk through frame making for an easy onboarding experience.
The perimeter weighted flywheel helps keep initial pedaling and maintaining speed smooth and comfortable, which can be extremely important for someone with arthritis. Easing into the exercise can be a joint saver for a lot of people.
The wide padded seat provides a comfortable ride, while the equally wide ventilated seat back helps keep you cool and gives you the back support you may need.
This has some of the best workout programs for exercise bikes for seniors with a whopping 29 customizable programs to make sure you get a great cardio workout no matter what you pick.
This recumbent position bike has a DualTrack blue backlit LCD display which means you get not just one LCD screen, but two that provide valuable workout feedback.
You'll be able to keep track of your exercise programs from up to 30 days prior, which can help keep you accountable for regular exercise.
The R616 is packed full of incredible features, such as Bluetooth connectivity, compatibility with the Explore the World app, 25 levels of resistance with quick-touch buttons for fast adjustment, an MP3 jack to utilize the built-in speakers, as well as a water bottle holder right next to the seat.
This bike comes almost completely assembled, but will take some time to put together depending on your abilities.
The bike once fully assembled weighs just over 91 lb, so having a partner to help put it together may be helpful.
This bike offers a 10-year frame, 3-year parts and 1-year labor warranty, which is a solid offering.
Right now, the Nautilus R616 is available for around $600 which is a great price for an upright or recumbent bike considering how many features it has.
Pros
- Loaded with customizable programs
- Ventilated seat back
- Perimeter weighted flywheel for easier pedal start and smooth pedal stroke
Cons
- To take full advantage of the Explore the World app, a subscription is needed
- Weight of the bike may be difficult for someone that has arthritis to move alone
This high-quality recumbent bike offers 25 levels of resistance to match any level of fitness. Explore the World lets you immerse yourself in locales around the world, all while providing...
What Is A Recumbent Bike?
You may have seen someone riding around on a recumbent road bike while driving and wondered what you just saw.
When comparing the recumbent bike vs upright bike, the recumbent bike kind of looks like the cousin of an upright bike but more comfortable. The rider sits in a position where the pedals are out in front of them while they can lean against a backrest. The design features of recumbent bikes make them ideal for longer rides or for people with less mobility or seniors who might want a more stable platform to ride from.
Recumbent road bikes and recumbent exercise bikes have been gaining traction in popularity lately, and for good reason.
Benefits Of Recumbent Bikes:
We'll break down why people are turning to recumbent versus upright stationary bikes and regular upright bikes.
1. More comfortable
People have found that the seated angle on a recumbent bike puts less stress on your back which will help keep you focused on your workout rather than discomfort.
Also the fact that the seats themselves are usually a bit wider leads to a more comfortable ride.
2. Balance & stability
Another benefit over an upright stationary bike is the lower center of gravity. This can be a huge benefit to anyone that has balance issues. With these machines you are in a reclined position so you don't need to engage your core muscles while still getting a great workout for your lower body muscles.
3. Safe low impact workout
While an upright bike is considered low impact as well, a recumbent bike is a bit gentler on the joints, which can make a huge difference on an exercise bike for seniors. This is what makes these machines great for physical therapy and the reason why so many certified personal trainers have seniors using them to get back into shape.
What to Look For When Buying Recumbent Exercise Bikes:
When shopping for the ideal recumbent bike, there are a few key factors you should consider that we covered below.
1. Build Quality
Looking at what the bike is made of should be a very important aspect in your purchasing decision. Seeing if the bike looks well made can give you at least an initial appraisal of whether or not you should spend your money on it.
Also included in the build quality is the weight capacity. The higher the weight capacity, the more likely it is that they used quality materials and will be able to handle your specific body weight.
Also included in the build quality is figuring out if it is belt-driven or if the bike offers magnetic resistance.
2. Seat Design
The seat design is extremely important as well. A good recumbent bike will offer you support without sacrificing comfort.
If the seat gets uncomfortable after a short period of time, then accomplishing your fitness goals will be extremely difficult.
This section also encompasses getting into the seat. A step through or walk through frame is very important when it comes to recumbent bikes for seniors, especially those with lower mobility.
3. Features
This section will really start to determine how much you are going to be paying for your new bike. This includes what kind of screen the bike has, if there are onboard programs or is compatible with instructor led workouts, Bluetooth connectivity, the list could keep going.
You need to figure out what your wants are versus your needs.
4. Price
If you want the best recumbent exercise bike on the market, it is going to cost a pretty penny.
That being said, we have shown you several examples of a recumbent stationary bike that will help you crush your fitness goals without breaking the bank.
5. Warranty
From our list it is apparent that lengths of warranties can vary widely from product to product, and if you have the means then spending that extra bit of money might be worth it just for peace of mind in case something did go wrong with your bike.
6. Reviews
Getting feedback from users that actually have put the machine through its paces can help you find the best exercise bike to meet all of your needs.
Whether you're looking for an intense workout or looking for some light cardio, checking reviews can help give you an idea if the bike you're looking at would check the boxes you need.
Recumbent Exercise Bike FAQ
Are recumbent bikes better for seniors?
They absolutely can be. A recumbent bike offers more back support with less neck strain for an overall more comfortable ride compared with an upright exercise bike. Seniors can get great cardiovascular exercise using a recumbent fitness bike.
What are the disadvantages of a recumbent bike?
There are a few disadvantages, one of which being that a recumbent bike doesn't engage your core or upper body muscle like an upright bike. Another reason being that calories burned aren't as high as a traditional stationary bike.
Branching off from the calories, a recumbent bike does not offer a full body workout on its own. However, they are a great option for people at a lower fitness level even though they primarily target the lower body.
What is the best folding exercise bike for seniors?
Our pick for the best exercise bike for seniors that folds is the Exerpeutic 400XL. This no-frills folding recumbent bike is easy to use and stow away when not in use.
Which recumbent bike has the most comfortable seat?
While this is subjective, we would have to say the Elite RB due to the sheer number of positions you can maneuver the seat into.
SUMMARY
Recumbent bikes provide an awesome workout while offering supreme comfort, support, and ease of getting in and out of it. Whether you're a senior, have back issues, or are just looking for a killer cardio session, you should consider buying a recumbent bike. Our favorite recumbent bike for seniors is the Comfort R from Horizon thanks to the comfort and functionality it provides.
We hope this post that covered the best recumbent exercise bikes helps you find one that fits your needs.
The Horizon Comfort R is the exercise bike that anyone can ride. The fully adjustable saddle and ergonomic grips mean that you’ll get a smooth and comfortable workout fitted to your needs and your body...
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Tyler DiGiovanni
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