Best Exercise Bikes in Canada – Reviews and Comparisons
Have you ever thought about buying a home exercise bike so you can get a good cardiovascular workout at home, but something much lower in impact than running? You may have looked around your local gym before and seen at least two types of exercise bikes, maybe three, and you’re never quite sure which to try because you have an injury or want to pick the one that will get your heart rate up higher. Maybe you found one you liked but want to know what else is out there that would be even better for your needs and workout goals.
This list of the best exercise bikes in Canada goes over the seven main types of stationary exercise bikes, with one of the best-rated exercise bikes available for purchase in each category. We’ve compared their differences, benefits, pros, cons, as well as who each type of bike is best suited for, so you can find the perfect home exercise bike for you.
Best Exercise Bikes in Canada Comparison Table:
| Name | Verdict | Workout | Sound | Space | Resistant | Programs | Rack |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schwinn 270 Recumbent Exercise Bike | Lowest impact exercise bike | Lower Body Exercise | Quiet | Large Footprint | Magnetic | 29 | Tablet Rack Included |
| Nautilus U616 Upright Exercise Bike | Low impact exercise bike | Lower Body Exercise | Quiet | Small Footprint | Magnetic | 29 | Tablet Rack Included |
| NordicTrack S22i Indoor Cycling Exercise Bike | Medium Impact exercise bike | Lower Body Exercise | Quiet | Medium Footprint | Magnetic | None | Tablet Rack Included |
| Assault Elite Air Resistance Exercise Bike | Highest Impact exercise bike | Lower and Upper Body Exercise | Loud | Medium Footprint | Air | 7 | No Tablet Rack |
| Sunny SF-RB4631 Arm and Leg Exercise Bike | Lowest impact exercise bike | Lower and Upper Body Exercise | Quiet | Large Footprint | Magnetic & Friction | None | No Tablet Rack |
| FitDesk Foldable Exercise Bike | Low impact exercise bike | Lower Body Exercise | Quiet | Small Footprint | Magnetic | None | Included Desk |
| PeiQiH Foldable Desk Exercise Bike | Low impact exercise bike | Lower Body Exercise | Quiet | Small Footprint | Magnetic | None | Included Desk |
Schwinn 270 Recumbent Exercise Bike
Schwinn is known for their quality bikes and fitness equipment, and their recumbent exercise bike, the Schwinn 270, is no different. It is a well-constructed and designed recumbent exercise bike in Canada that functions well for both beginners and experts alike.
The Schwinn 270 recumbent exercise bike is an upgraded version of the Schwinn 230, providing users with more advanced features such as Bluetooth connectivity, a more comfortable seat, and 25 resistance levels instead of 20 levels to choose from. In addition, it has 29 programs which is more than 22 programs on the Schwinn 230, and a dual-screen console, as well as app integration. With its ventilated, easily-adjustable, and contoured padded seat and silent electronic magnetic resistance, it offers a wide range of intensity options for all users to get a great cardio workout.
This home stationary bike comes equipped with two blue backlit displays on its fully-loaded console, where users can switch between 29 different workout programs. Workout metrics are displayed just below the media holder, so users can keep up with their stats, including speed, distance, and heart rate, without having to move their mobile phone, tablet, or magazine out of the way to check.
You will also be able to set, track and monitor your progress with other popular app-based tracking tools, including UA Record, MyFitnessPal, and Explore the World. This is thanks to this Schwinn model’s more noteworthy feature: enhanced Bluetooth connectivity. With this indoor stationary bike, you will have three free courses available through the Explore the World app, but you will have to get a subscription to Explore the World for more.
Having Bluetooth connectivity also means playing your music as you ride, but users note the speakers aren’t the greatest. There is an MP3 player jack built-in as well and a USB port to keep your device powered. Although you shouldn’t need anything turned up too loudly, the high speed and high inertia perimeter weighted flywheel makes for a quiet and smooth workout.
In terms of tracking heart rate, this professional exercise bike is telemetry enabled, and the contact grip is placed in an easy-to-reach, comfortable place on the handlebars. Some users note that the heart rate monitor works but that it’s pretty patchy, so you might consider purchasing a non-coded transmitter and belt set for a more accurate read.
Verdict
The Schwinn 270 is a recruitment bike exercise bike which means users don’t need to mount the bike; they simply sit on it. It also has seat-side handlebars for added support when getting on and off. This exercise cardio bike is an excellent option for anyone who needs the lowest impact exercise bike possible, such as someone recovering from an injury, an older person, or someone who struggles with balance. This home exercising bike has a solid construction that doesn’t shake. It has ample legroom for users to maintain safe and proper form while cycling.
Nautilus U616 Upright Exercise Bike
Although U616 doesn’t have all the superior features of the Nautilus U618 such as a heavier flywheel, resistance controls on the handlebars, and extra padded elbow rests, the Nautilus U616 is still one of the best Nautilus upright exercise bikes.
The Nautilus U616 bike is a bit too upright if you’re an avid cycler looking for something more comparable to a road bike workout, but with its 29 workout programs, it gets the cardio job done and at a low impact. These programs include twelve profiles, nine heart rate control, four custom, two fitness test, one recovery test, and one quick start.
The programs are displayed on the sightline-adjustable dual-mode displays, making it easy to transition between interval training, cardio health, weight loss, or something else more suited to your goals.
In addition to the 29 programs, this portable stationary bike also syncs with the RideSocial App, so you can keep things exciting and ride alongside friends, virtually exploring the world in real-time, as well as tracking your stats.
There are some free routes available through the Explore the World App, but you need a subscription if you want to unlock more. The enhanced Bluetooth connectivity on this upright stationary bike enables users also to set, track and monitor progress through the Nautilus Trainer 2 App and MyFitnessPal. You could also connect the bike to the QZ app and then to Zwift application.
With various ways to shake up your workout, a built-in fan, and a large padded seat for comfort, you’ll be able to go for as long as you please on the Nautilus U616 upright stationary bike. Not to mention the media shelf and built-in speakers with USB media charging so you can shake up your music and entertainment. However, many users have had trouble connecting apps and devices and ultimately gave up due to a requirement for various Bluetooth codes.
This compact upright exercise bike in Canada is virtually silent, and that’s thanks to the high speed, high inertia drive system with a perimeter weighted 22 lbs flywheel. This feature helps you get moving quickly and stay moving smoothly as you work through 25 levels of resistance and view your heart rate, speed, calories burned, time, and distance on the display.
Verdict
The Nautilus U616 is a good upright exercise bike in Canada and after recumbent exercise bikes, it’s the second-lowest impact exercise bike out there. It’s great for users who are looking to get a little more of a calorie burn than they would on a recumbent bike. It also requires more muscle engagement and balance, as you’ll need to be able to mount the bike and pedal without side handlebars or a backrest. This indoor static bike might not be for your avid road cycler because it doesn’t precisely emulate how a real outdoor bike feels, but you’ll get a lower body and cardio workout. Plus, it’s stable, quiet, and has other excellent features. If you can spend an extra C$100, I highly suggest the Nautilus U618 because its flywheel is 8-lb heavier (30-lb vs 22-lb) and its seat is more comfortable because it has a gel layer. Plus, the Nautilus U618 has resistance controls on the handlebars so it’s easier to change resistance.
NordicTrack S22i Indoor Cycling Exercise Bike
If you’re an avid road bike or spin class student, this stationary bike might be just what you need to get the same incredible workout from the comfort of your home. Featured in our best spin bike reviews in Canada, the NordicTrack S22i allows users to change their grip between four prominent positions with its race style handlebars. The v-shaped frame on the Keiser M3i is designed to accommodate all riders.
The Nordictrack S22i is the improved version of the S15i with a few minor differences and one major difference which is the size of the screen. They are both indoor cycling exercise bikes with automatic magnetic resistance and a weight capacity of up to 350 lbs. They come equipped with features like cooling fans, dumbbells, and bottle holders.
However, the S22i offers a larger and improved 22-inch instead of a 15-inch touchscreen, with two additional resistance levels and HDMI ports. On the other hand, the S15i is a more cost-effective option that provides a good workout experience and can simulate outdoor riding conditions with its 20% incline and 10% decline capabilities. They are both great exercise bikes to buy in Canada but I prefer the S22i due to its larger screen.
The revolutionary re-designed New NordicTrack S22i bike pedals are well-positioned to clip into your biking shoes. The pedal cage can be removed if others in your home will be using the bike with different shoes. You can also remove the pedals completely and install a pair of dual sided spin bike pedals if you or someone in your household uses clipless indoor cycling shoes.
At nearly 90 kg, this stationary bike is pretty hefty, but it’s certainly not bulky compared to ellipticals or treadmills – just built to last! The front-wheel is has a cover designed for protection from corrosion and sweat, and the single-belt drive train is reliable and low-maintenance – it’s also what makes this home exercise bike virtually silent.
The monitor on this home workout bike is a 22 inches pivoting touchscreen that synchs with iFit application. You need a Bluetooth chest strap heart rate monitor if you want to be able to track this, but once you purchase it, it will work automatically with the bike.
The monitor displays distance, watts, rpm, and gear and doesn’t interfere with your view with anything you place on the bottle holders. The bike and its screen is limited only to iFit application. It shouldn’t be an issue unless you prefer to ride on Peloton app, which in that case, I would suggest you buy a Peloton Bike Plus instead.
Verdict
If you’re looking to get the same feel as a road bike or one you’d find in your spin class, a spinning exercise bike like this Nordictrack S22i is what you need. These bikes will require you to lean forward to reach the handlebars and mount the bike and pedal with force, so they are not recommended for anyone with limited mobility, such as the elderly. Spinning exercise bikes rank third in terms of impact, and you can get a great lower body HIIT workout on one. This compact exercise bike is silent, sturdy, and adjustable. It has a high price among other top-rated exercise bikes but seems worth the cost to have a commercial-grade, low-maintenance bike at home.
Schwinn Airdyne AD7 Air Resistance Exercise Bike
There’s no doubt about it that Schwinn AD7 is one of the best air bikes in Canada. Weighing in at just under 115 pounds and supporting up to 350, this indoor exercise bike is a durable home workout bike for anyone looking to get a gym-like experience. Although, you should note that if you’ve never tried or owned an air bike before, these are the loudest of all stationary exercise bikes, so it might not be your best bet if you have neighbors to worry about.
The Schwinn AD7 Airdyne exercise bike is built tough with its solid steel frame and aluminum seat post and it isn’t necessarily made for the faint of heart either, as it has moving handlebars so riders can get a full-body HIIT workout, unlike other bikes. You can choose between various HIIT interval programs and decrease or increase the resistance depending on how fast you pedal. The bike also enables users to pedal backward for more variation and resistance that engages other parts of the legs.
When it comes to performance tracking, your time, distance, watts, pace, heart rate, speed, and calories burned are shown on the integrated display. The display allows you to connect with non-coded wireless heart monitor straps.
The sizeable supportive seat is built for you to ride comfortably, but note that Schwinn Airdyne bikes (and air bikes in general) are not for longer, low-impact cardio sessions. The seat’s height can be adjusted, and the slide enables the seat to move forward or back. The handlebar is designed for multiple grip variations, and the integrated removable windscreen helps to deflect the air used to create resistance.
Schwinn’s Airdyne bike range consists of three models: AD7, AD6, and AD2. The AD7 is the most advanced, boasting a large fan flywheel, 9 preset workouts, and a weight capacity of up to 350 lbs. The AD7’s console is larger, with a dual-display (one vertical and one round), while the handlebars are multi-grip and the seat is extra-padded and comfortable. It also has phone and bottle holder shelves. On the other hand, the AD6 is a mid-range option with a smaller fan flywheel, a basic seat, and a bottle holder shelf. It has a weight capacity of 300 lbs and a single-display console. The AD2 is the most basic model, with a small fan flywheel, basic seat, and only a bottle holder shelf. Its weight capacity is 250 lbs and it features a single-display console. Both AD7 and AD6 models have vertically and horizontally adjustable seats, while the AD2 model only has vertically adjustable seats. If you want to spend less, you can consider the Schwinn AD6 or AD2 but I personally love the AD7 which is why I think is one of the best exercise bikes in Canada.
Verdict
Air exercise bikes such as this top-rated fitness bike have moving handlebars because they are built for full-body high-intensity interval training, and not just lower body HIIT, such as a spin bike provides. So, if it’s not recommended that you do high-intensity training for any reason, this cardio exercise bike will not be for you. These bikes are the highest impact exercise bikes, which means they are also unsuitable for the elderly or anyone with mobility issues. An air bike such as the Assault Elite is the loudest of all exercise bikes and requires a little maintenance here and there, but if these are not issues for you, this durable and high-functioning bike will last a long time and end up being worth your money.
Sunny Arm and Leg Recumbent Bike
If you are looking for a full-body, low-impact workout as you bike, the Sunny SF-RB4631 is a sturdy stationary exercise bike that isn’t likely to disappoint. This bike is suited for exercisers of all skill levels because you can control the intensity of your leg workout by using the easy-to-access tension knob to choose between eight levels of magnetic resistance.
Also, as you ride, you can use the handlebars with dual position handle grips to get your upper body moving. Although some users find the arm exercisers to be a little too much of a workout, even though you can adjust the arm resistance, they say that the resistance is still significant even when the resistance is completely unengaged.
To view your progress and stay motivated as you cycle, the digital monitor screen will display your time, total count, calories, and count per minute. The lower handlebar’s pulse sensors will monitor your heart rate so you can keep it on target and stick to a steady pace, which is essential as these full-body bikes are more suited for slower, longer cardio workouts. Just note that the heart rate monitor will only track once it’s on the heart rate display is up if you’re using the rotate setting.
Because comfort and convenience are of utmost importance with longer rides, the large seat and back cushion are adjustable for users of different heights, although this might not fit the bill if you are over 6 feet tall. You can easily make seat adjustments without having to stand up using a simple handle at your side. Once you’re through with your workout, you can roll it on its built-in transportation wheels and store it away.
Verdict
The Sunny SF-RB4631 is a full-body recumbent bike that is the lowest impact exercise bike, just like all other recumbent exercise bikes. The main difference is that the full-body bikes give users the option to get an upper-body workout, too (while seated). The great thing about this bike is that it’s built for everyone, especially seniors or anyone recovering from an injury or surgery – even a knee replacement. However, if you’re looking for a more intense workout, note that this bike is suited for slow and steady workouts, making this Sunny bike an excellent option because it’s sturdy and comfortable.
FitDesk Folding Exercise Bike
If you struggle to find time to exercise outside of work or hate the idea of staying stagnant at your desk all day, The FitDesk folding exercise bike in Canada might be just what you need. This compact exercise bike can help you burn some calories and focus on your cardiovascular health while you work or browse the web. Meanwhile, the digital performance monitor tracks time, mileage, and calories.
The built-in, non-slip adjustable desk comes equipped with an easy-to-access storage drawer; so, when you want to use the convenient resistance bands located beneath your seat for an upper body workout, you can tuck things away such as your pens or earbuds. There is also a built-in holder to use for a tablet or phone.
As you type, the armrest will help keep your wrists more comfortable, but unfortunately, some users attest that the table is a bit of a reach to work comfortably. However, the desk extension kit you can purchase as an accessory seems to address that issue. Users also note that the seat is not the most comfortable either. This isn’t the type of bike that you would expect to work an entire day on anyway, which is great that it’s so lightweight and has a quick-lock folding frame and wheels for hassle-free storage.
Another nice feature about this compact stationary bike is that it is super quiet due to the twin belt and high-velocity flywheel. It is also durable with its high-quality gearbox components. There are eight settings on the resistance knob for enough variety of tension to serve its purpose. That said, this fold up exercise bike isn’t the bike for you if you’re a serious biker or looking for a more intense cardiovascular workout. However, the adjustable seat back and extender included allow for upright and semi-recumbent biking.
Verdict
The benefits of a folding exercise bike such as this FitDesk are ones you won’t find with other bikes, such as a two-in-one design that can be adjusted to an upright and recumbent position. Still, this portable exercise bike isn’t built for anyone who cannot get on and off a regular bike, nor is it intended for those looking for a HIIT or intense cardio workout. A bike like this might be less durable than others, but the FitDesk stands out as a bike that merges productivity and health, and it’s very affordable and easy to store.
FlexiSpot Foldable Desk Exercise Bike
The FlexiSpot home office desk exercise bike helps improve your cardiovascular health as you work and stay productive – or even just entertained. The workstation is height adjustable, and with its compact and foldable design, it is easy to stow away on its transportation wheels when you’re through.
You won’t have to worry about having trouble focusing because this foldable exercise bike is super smooth and quiet with its ergonomic resistance and 2kg heavy-duty flywheel. So, whether you are steadily moving at level one or kicking it up a bit to level eight tension resistance, you won’t have to worry about disturbing others.
If you decide to take a break from your work to check your stats, the multi-functional digital LCD monitor displays time, speed, distance, and calories. Or, if you simply need a quick water break, the cup holder on the desk is a convenient feature. You can also remove the desk altogether.
For added safety while in use, this bike has four foldable stabilizers that lock with a foot brake; it also has thick, non-slip foot pedals. The ergonomic PU leather padded seat provides more comfort as you pedal, which is also adjustable so that it can be changed according to your height for a more customized fit.
Verdict
A desk bike like this FlexiSpot compact bike is not designed for high-intensity exercise, but it does help users maintain mobility and cardiovascular health while working. What sets this bike apart from the others is that it’s functional and foldable. If you’re looking for a compact way to get a little more exercise throughout your day and then stow it out of sight, this desk exercise bike might be a perfect fit (literally). Plus, it has a nice-looking green color, while most other bikes don’t offer any color variety.
Buyer’s Guide To Help You Find The Best Exercise Bike in Canada
Recumbent Exercise Bikes
The difference a seated position makes compared to an upright exercise bike is significant. Recumbent exercise bikes are considered the lowest impact exercise bike because the pedals are designed with a 45-degree angle, so your legs will extend out in front of you instead of below you. But this also means that they offer the lowest intensity of exercise among all other stationary exercise bikes. In this type of design, you can simply sit down on a recumbent bike and not have to worry about balance or mounting on and off the bike, mainly if you are an older person, someone in recovery from an injury or surgery, or someone who lacks balance. Recumbent exercise bikes have seat-side handlebars for additional support. So, when looking for a recumbent bike, you want to look for a cushioned seat and built-in resistance controls that are on the handlebar so you don’t have to reach forward or stand up to switch resistance. That said, preset programs are also a nice feature, as well as a backlit monitor that you can read from farther back. If you’ll need to stay on top of your heart rate, ensure there are built-in sensors as well. Bluetooth connectivity and built-in speakers will help, too, particularly if you will be listening to music since you will not have a media stand.
Upright Exercise Bikes
Upright bikes are the lowest impact exercise bikes after recumbent bikes. Note that you’ll need to mount the bike and balance as there won’t be side handlebars or backrest support. Although, you don’t have to stand up or lean forward like you would on a spin bike. However, you still want the bike to align with your size, so look for seats that are adjustable in both directions (up/down and forward/back). On that note, you may need to adjust the handlebars, too, so that’s another feature to look for. It never hurts to have an extra cushioned seat on your upright bike, or Bluetooth connectivity so you don’t have to fidget with things and can focus on maintaining your balance. That’s another reason why backlit monitors and preset programs are great features to look for as well.
Indoor Cycling Exercise Bikes
Spin bikes are the third lowest impact exercise bikes after recumbent and upright bikes, and they are designed to emulate outdoor road bikes. With these bikes, you will have different places you can grip on the handlebars. You can also stand up on the pedals and achieve a lower-body high-intensity interval training workout, but you’ll need to be able to pedal with force to turn the heavy flywheel. Because you need to lean forward, this type of bike won’t be as comfortable as recumbent or upright ones. However, you can still look for features like comfortable, non-slip handlebars that adjust in both directions, SPD pedals, and cushioned seats. You will want to note the magnetic resistance levels on the bike to ensure it will be a good fit for your exercise level. Since you’ll likely be tracking more stats on a bike like this, you want to look for a substantial monitor that is hopefully backlit and has Bluetooth.
Air Resistance Exercise Bikes
The highest impact bike of all exercise bikes is an air exercise bike. It is also the loudest, so do take that into serious consideration. These bikes are built for high-intensity interval training, which is why they have both moving handlebars and pedals – no other bikes have this; this is why you will want to look for preset HIIT programs to utilize for a fun, effective workout. If you’re going to track things like time and distance, look for a quality monitor. Note that these bikes are not for long, low-impact workout sessions, and because it’s built for intensity, you might also look for a foot peg to do a lower-body cool-down or recovery as you do arm exercises.
Full Body Recumbent Exercise Bikes
With a similar design to regular recumbent bikes, total body recumbent bikes are the same in terms of the lowest impact. This means that it’s a great and safe bike for anyone, especially if you are older or recovering from an injury or surgery. They are also great for longer, slower workouts, so be sure to look for a comfortable seat and a tablet holder so you can stay entertained. The main difference in this bike from a traditional recumbent bike is that it has pedals for arm exercise to get an upper and lower body cardio exercise while seated. This means that you will also want to look for a full-body recumbent bike with arm exercisers and foot pedals that you can separately adjust the resistance for. While these bikes aren’t designed for HIIT workouts, you might want to look for a heart rate monitor still, as you can still burn fat with a steady, elevated heart rate.
Folding Exercise Bike
Folding exercise bikes have some great features that you won’t find on other types of bikes. What sets them apart is that they are very lightweight and affordable. They are also foldable and easy to stow, so you can check to make sure that the bike has built-in wheels to make the process even easier. These bikes take up very little space, but they still have a lot to offer. For instance, you might look for one that has a 2 in 1 design where the bike can adjust from an upright position into a recumbent one. You can also check for one that has resistance bands included so that you can get an upper-body workout too. Note that this type of bike is not intended for someone who cannot mount or dismount a regular bike, so even if it’s a 2-in-1 design, if you cannot or don’t plan to sit upright, you might opt for a regular recumbent or semi-recumbent bike instead. Although the foldability feature is nice, and even if it’s possible for other types of bikes, it’s not always practical to put it away after every use, so that’s something you want to consider. Just note this means that folding exercise bikes are not as durable or made for more intense biking. They also don’t come with built-in programs, but you can lookout for a tablet holder.
Desk Exercise Bike
With a desk exercise bike, you can use the bike with the desk or simply remove the desk and use the bike in place of your usual office chair. You will want to check for folding pedals, too, in case you need a break from pedaling. These bikes are a great way to get a decent cardiovascular workout as you stay productive, but they aren’t designed for high-intensity workouts. Because they are designed for two purposes you will want to look for a comfortable desk bike, adjustable to fit your height. Check for a desk that can be adjusted up/down and forward/back, as well as an up/down adjustable and comfortable seat. You will also want to note the desk’s size and if it will be large enough to suit your needs. Don’t expect it to support your daily two-desktop set-up and keyboard – but you can look for a cup holder!