Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes Under $1000 | Quality & Affordability
Biking is a premiere option for anyone who wants to get fit, and has always been a popular approach to exercising. Indoor exercising is a great option for people who live in cold climates or if you’re in a location without optimal bike paths nearby. And there are multitudes of options and styles of bikes to choose from. Whether it’s spin bikes or recumbent bikes, it can be difficult to know where to start if you’re trying to elevate your fitness regime.
Biking has always been a great option for low-impact training and for people who are looking to prevent stress on their joints while still getting in an extremely challenging and rewarding workout. But another challenge that can stand in the way of successfully routinely biking is other health and body issues like back strength or joint strength. It can be difficult to bike in a more traditional sense if you aren’t able to support the weight of your workout on your back or your joints. Recumbent exercise bikes are a great solution to that!
Recumbent bikes both provide back support throughout your entire ride, and they help take the pressure off your legs and joints. This makes that an optimal choice for exercisers who might be in rehab for their knees, ankles, or tendons but are still trying to keep up with their fitness goals. It’s also great for people with back strength challenges, providing your body all the support it needs while still being a premiere resource for pushing your body and improving your strength.
But even though a recumbent bike might seem like an obvious and win-win choice for you, there’s still a lot of features and different bike styles and options to wade through. It can be overwhelming to know where to start, and not know which features are important to consider and which ones don’t matter as much.
We’ve brought together all the information on our favorite recumbent bikes under 1000 USD so that you don’t have to go searching for the information. Compiled right here in this guide of the best recumbent exercise bikes priced under $1000, you won’t have to look anywhere else to find the perfect recumbent bike for you.
Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes Under 1000 Compared
| Name | Image | Connectivity | Resistance | Display | Programs | Seat | Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nautilus R618 Recumbent Exercise Bike |  | Bluetooth | 25-Level Electronic Magnetic | Dual-Screen Backlit | 29 | Easy Adjustment | Resistance controls on the handlebars |
| Schwinn 270 Recumbent Exercise Bike |  | Bluetooth | 25-Level Electronic Magnetic | Dual-Screen Backlit | 29 | Easy Adjustment | Easy-reach bottle holder |
| Fitness Reality X-Class 450SL Recumbent |  | Bluetooth | 24-Level Electronic Magnetic | Single-Screen Backlit | 24 | Difficult Adjustment | Comfortable elbow-rests |
| CIRCUIT FITNESS AMZ-587R Recumbent Bike |  | None | 15-Level Electronic Magnetic | Single-Screen Backlit | 15 | Easy Adjustment | None |
| Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RB4850 Recumbent |  | None | 16-Level Electronic Magnetic | Single-Screen Backlit | 12 | Easy Adjustment | None |
| XTERRA SB2.5R Recumbent Exercise Bike |  | None | 24-Level Electronic Magnetic | Single-Screen Backlit | 24 | Easy Adjustment | None |
| ProForm 235 CSX Recumbent Exercise Bike |  | Bluetooth | 18-Level Electronic Magnetic | Single-Screen Backlit | 14 | Easy Adjustment | Dual accessory holders |
| Schwinn Fitness 230 Stationary Recumbent Bike |  | Bluetooth | 16-Level Electronic Magnetic | Single-Screen No Backlit | 13 | Easy Adjustment | Easy-reach bottle holder |
| Exerpeutic 2500 Desk Recumbent Exercise Bike |  | Bluetooth | 14-Level Manual Magnetic | Single-Screen No Backlit | None | Difficult Adjustment | Large desktop |
| Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RB4631 Recumbent |  | No | 8-Level Manual Magnetic | Single-Screen No Backlit | None | Easy Adjustment | Arm and leg exercise |
Top 10 Recumbent Bike Reviewed Under $1000:
Nautilus R618 Recumbent Exercise Bike
Our top pick for a premiere recumbent bike under $1000 is the Nautilus R618. from resistance controls built-into the handlebars to the high-quality seat, there is a lot to love about this recumbent exercise bike under 1000, from its ample preset workout programs, to its tech features, to its thoughtful design, there’s a reason that this bike takes our top ranking spot.
This bike comes with 29 customizable workout programs. This means it’s both easy to jump into recumbent biking without much prior knowledge of biking workouts. But it also means if you’re advanced biker who knows what you want out of a workout, it’s easy to customize your own workout just for you.
Highly adjustable, this bike can be customized in more ways than just in its workouts. With multi-position handlebars, you can find a position that is perfectly adjusted to your height, arm length, and position preferences. You can also adjust the position of the seat itself to maximize your comfort for your workout.
The R618 also includes exciting tech features and accessories like the ability to sync directly with the Ride Social App that allows you to experience beautiful virtual scenery and authentic global landscapes and ride alongside friends, without ever having to leave the convenience of your own homes.
Schwinn 270 Recumbent Exercise Bike
The older version of the Nautilus R618, the Schwinn 270 recumbent bike has many things to offer that make it a great option for any beginning or advanced recumbent biker. It also features many accessories, making it extremely tech compatible and perfect for any modern exerciser.
With an impressive 25 levels of resistance, there’s something for any level of biker here. Listed as the second-best exercise recumbent bike under $1000 in our comparison, the Schwinn 270 also features 29 different workout programs preset into the computer.
12 Of these programs are basic profile programs to get anyone started on a standard workout of any level. 9 of these programs are heart rate control programs, built to push your body without straining your heart. This workout recumbent bike has a high speed, high inertia drive that will deliver superior workouts at any resistance level.
With Dual Track LCD displays that track all the data of your workout, you will be able to stay informed about your performance details. The console that hosts the display also features a media shelf so you can stay entertained on a tablet or other device while you work out, speakers to optimize your entertainment, a USB charging port, and an adjustable fan to keep you cool while you exert yourself.
Fitness Reality X-Class 450SL Recumbent
This Fitness Reality X Class bike boasts superior comfort and designed to make sure your body feels supported throughout your entire workout. With a multi-layer extra cushioned foam seat with unique airsoft technology, this indoor recumbent exercise bike stands out from others in terms of comfort.
This airsoft technology involves extra layers of breathable, moisture-wicking cushioning, making the seat both soft and breathable. The seat also features a premium backrest made out of molded mesh and contoured for optimal comfort. And, with office chair-style armrests that double as handlebars, you’ll be so comfortable in this bike chair you won’t ever want to stop working out.
Aside from superior comfort, this bike also delivers high-quality training features. With 24 preset programs, this recumbent stationary bike under 1000 will get you started on your way to becoming an expert recumbent biker. And, with Bluetooth Smart Cloud Fitness capabilities, you can connect this bike to your workout app and track your workouts on any of your devices.
Along with the 24 workout programs, this bike also has 24 different levels of silky smooth magnet resistance, which are easy to shift between and provide endless combinations for workouts that will take your fitness to the next level.
CIRCUIT FITNESS AMZ-587R Recumbent Bike
A great, heavy-duty bike, the AMZ-587R is made with a durable, long-lasting steel frame that will stand up to any level of workout intensity. With impressive stability, this bike with barely wobble, even with the most extreme levels of training.
With 15 different workout programs, there is something for a biker of every skill level built into these training programs. You can find programs that simulate different types of terrain, feeling like you’re biking outside all from the comfort of a recumbent indoor bike. With a magnetic resistance system, this bike also offers many different levels of resistance, so you can tailor a workout level that’s right for you and your specific training needs.
With convenient handles with built-in pulse monitors, safety pedals with comfortable straps, and a padded adjustable seat, your comfort is an important part of this bike’s design. It’s also designed with an easy step-through design for hassle-free access, no matter what your mobility is.
The AMZ-587R is also loaded with exciting accessories, including a water bottle holder, an LCD display that shows all your workout information so you can stay informed about your performance, and a media holder so you can stay entertained while you ride!
Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RB4850 Recumbent
9 used from $312.71
With 16 different levels of resistance, you can find any workout intensity with the Sunny SF-RB4850 exercise bike that fits your training goals, whether you’re just beginning biking or are already an experienced biker. Each of the levels of resistance are controlled by the console, so it’s easy to switch between resistance levels in the middle of your workout without skipping a beat.
In addition to the 16 different levels of magnetic resistance, this recumbent bike machine also comes loaded with 12 different preset workouts. You can choose to follow any of these presets all the way through, or you can customize them as you go, tailoring them to your specific goals.
Also on the console from which you can control your resistance levels, you’ll find a device holder so you can stay entertained while you work out. Or, you can focus on the performance monitor that displays your workout time biked, distance biked, RPMs, speed, calories burned, pulse, and wattage so you can stay informed about your performance.
This home recumbent bike under 1000 also features many adjustable features so you can adapt the setup of the bike so it is most comfortable for you throughout your workout.
XTERRA SB2.5R Recumbent Exercise Bike
One of the highlights of Xterra SB2.5R exercise bike is that it is equipped with electromagnetic resistance, delivering a fluid and ultra-smooth performance, no matter what intensity of workout you are working on. This electromagnetic resistance system governs a 22 pound flywheel, meaning this bike is up to the task of any extreme workout. And, there are 24 different levels of resistance to choose from, so even if you’re not ready for more difficult workouts, there’s a great option for you to use with this bike.
The 24 different preset workout programs include 12 standard preset workouts, 4 workouts that are designed for heart rate control so you can keep an eye on your cardiovascular workouts while still pushing yourself physically, 1 target heart rate workout, 1 body fat workout for users with weight loss goals, 1 watt-based workout for a more calorie-minded workout, and 4 different user-defined workouts so you can customize a workout unique to your goals and needs.
Not only does this bike have extensive performance benefits, but it’s also designed for comfort with a molded seat and a large back rest with comfortable padding. It’s also designed with a convenient walk-through set up for easy access.
This bike also features a large LCD display that is backlit for superior visibility. In addition to this display, there is an audio jack so you can plug in a different device for entertainment. And you can use the MP3 player with built in speakers for an even more elevated entertainment experience.
ProForm 235 CSX Recumbent Exercise Bike
The ProForm 235 recumbent bike under 1000 is a great option for anyone looking for workouts high in quality and low in impact. With 18 different levels of magnetic resistance, this stationary recumbent exercise bike provides a super smooth ride no matter what the workout intensity is.
You can manually select your resistance level for a super customizable workout experience, or you can follow a preset workout that will automatically adjust the levels of resistance as you go. No matter what workout you choose, every level of resistance will be super smooth and quiet, letting you focus on your workout without being disturbed.
The ProForm 235 CSX also features a large, high visibility LCD window display that tracks all information of your workout so you can stay informed about your performance. The monitor also includes a device holder so you can stay entertained on a tablet or phone while you work out.
The bike also has a water bottle holder so you can stay hydrated without skipping a beat in your workout. And, the console features an iPod-compatible audio system that allows you to listen to music while you bike.
Schwinn Fitness 230 Stationary Recumbent Bike
3 used from $572.31
With a weighted flywheel and magnetic resistance, the Schwinn Fitness 230 exercise bike offers significant resistance with a smooth pedaling and biking experience. With 16 different levels of magnetic resistance, you can customize a level of intensity that is right for you.
The Schwinn Fitness 230 also comes with 13 different workout programs. There is something for a biker of every experience level. They range from basic beginner programs to more extreme workouts for advanced bikers.
No matter what workout level you are at, you will be able to enjoy over 40 different global routes on different apps to explore the world while you bike. With Bluetooth connectivity, the entertainment and accessory possibilities are endless.
This bike also delivers superior comfort with a thick padded and contoured seat and a large backrest with mesh support for comfort and breathability. The handles are conveniently placed so you won’t have to reach for support during your workout.
Exerpeutic 2500 Desk Recumbent Exercise Bike
Seen in many recumbent exercise bike reviews, this bike is uniquely perfect for anyone looking to multitask and stay productive with work while you’re improving your fitness. With a sliding desktop option, rather than being engrossed in your workout statistics, you can get work done on your laptop while you bike so you’ll barely even notice you’re working out!
The super thick seat with airsoft technology and large backrest simulates an office chair, which will further set the scene for your productivity. The desktop is fully adjustable, so you can lay it flat or tilted or whatever works best for you. It also includes arm rests so you can keep your arms comfortable while you work.
Not only can you work on your laptop while you bike, but you can also connect via Bluetooth connectivity to your My Fitness Cloud App so you can save and reference all the data about your biking performance.
The biking mechanism itself runs off of magnetic resistance, and offers 14 different levels of magnetic resistance, so you can design a more challenging workout, or a more laid-back workout if you want to focus on getting work done on your laptop.
Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RB4631 Recumbent
This Sunny Health & Fitness Recumbent Bike SF-RB4631 is a great option for anyone who’s trying to stick to a budget but doesn’t want to sacrifice superior recumbent bike quality. The bike features a large, comfortable seat, a digital monitor with a unique design to optimize visibility, and multiple levels of magnetic resistance.
This bike has a unique and compact design, bringing the digital monitor and pulse monitor equipped handlebars close to your sitting position so you can stay in a comfortable recumbent position without having to reach far beyond your chair, allowing you to focus on delivering a productive workout.
And, it also features arm exercisers, so you can get an arm workout in addition to just a low-impact lower body workout! These unique features make this bike stand out from other bikes on the market.
This compact recumbent exercise bike is also more lightweight, making it easier to transport. The bike includes 8 different levels of magnetic resistance, so you can choose a level of resistance that is best suited for your goals, whether you’re a beginner biker just looking for some casual fitness time, or you are a more experience biker looking to push yourself physically and challenge yourself during your workouts. This bike doesn’t feature any preset workouts to choose from, so you’re on your own to design a workout for you!
A Buyer’s Guide to Recumbent Exercise Bikes:
Adjustable Resistance
How your bike adjusts resistance is essential to creating a good ride experience. Does your ideal bike feature a knob or – and + buttons? Is your ideal bike built with pre-set workout programs or completely personalizable? Whatever you prefer, picking a recumbent exercise bike that matches your preferences is essential.
Resistance
Keep the resistance of your recumbent bike in mind as you decide which will work best for you. Electronically magnetic resistance (aka motorized/computerized resistance) is the best as it performs reliably and allows micro adjustment, but manually adjustable resistance can also be useful as it often doesn’t require a power plug-in. Whatever you choose, make sure you know how it works and how low or high maintenance it will be over time.
Find a Good Monitor
You can never go wrong with a solid digital monitor when buying recumbent bikes under $500, $1000, or any other price range! Having a Bluetooth-equipped or fully functional digital monitor on your stationary bike is a key part of providing consistent and reliable exercise and workout feedback, so make sure you find one that’s compatible with your preferred fitness devices.
Can a recumbent exercise bike help lose weight?
So can a recumbent bike aid weight loss or weight management? The answer is yes. Recumbent stationary bikes are exceptional exercise bike that offers premium comfort and maximum workout results (if used correctly, of course). And if you use a recumbent exercise bike with arm workouts, you can even get better results and burn more calories.
It offers a low-impact workout that is easy on the knees, joints, and the body overall. Physicians also recommend recumbent bike training for those with injuries or recovering from surgery.
The bike helps improve cardiovascular health, strengthens the bones, and builds muscle endurance. Additionally, working out on a recumbent bike activates a variety of lower-body muscles, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, and shins. Weight loss and management with a recumbent bike demands consistency and diligence.
You need to make a committed effort and work out regularly to achieve good results. Workout time and resistance also play a significant role in calorie expenditure, which helps weight loss goals.
Aim to exercise at least three times per week on a 30-minute basis. Remember, weight loss is a strategic undertaking that demands not only exercise but proper diet and weight training as well!
Final Verdict:
There are so many different recumbent bikes out on the market, it can feel overwhelming to know what to choose and what features to emphasize. With all of these high-quality recumbent exercise bikes remaining under $1000, it’s easy to stay within a budget and difficult to make a bad decision. For example, if you’re looking for comfort, Fitness Reality X-Class is the way to go! But if you’re intrigued by the idea of a bike that allows you to get some office work done on your laptop while you work, you might do well to consider the Exerpeutic 2500.
Whatever you choose, any of these top 10 recumbent bikes under $1000 is sure to take your fitness routine to the next level and elevate your workout to the next level. With superior comfort, high quality performances, and workouts that are physically challenging without making your body undergo damaging stress, all of these bikes will help improve your life and wellbeing.
Hi there, I'm Sayed Hamed Hosseiny, the founder and one of the authors at yourexercisebike.com (YEB). I am a former indoor cycling instructor and personal trainer with nearly 20 years of experience. With a passion for indoor cycling, I have spent years designing cycling parts, repairing, and importing exercise bikes. All the articles, tips, guides, reviews, and comparisons on YourExerciseBike.com (YEB) reflect my personal opinion and expertise in the field. I'm excited to share my knowledge with fellow exercise bike enthusiasts and help people find reliable indoor cycling information and the best exercise bike for their needs.
I agree with the review of the Nautilus R618. It’s probably as close to the perfect recumbent bike as one can get. Definitely worth the asking price. The only thing that’s missing is the kitchen sink :))
Haha, you’re right about the kitchen sink thing. Bluetooth connectivity, app compatibility, USD charging port, cooling fan (it’s a MUST!) plus that seat that’s so comfortableeeeeee
An amazing piece of machinery if you ask me! I highly recommend it to anyone, no matter your level of experience with recumbent bikes. I’ve been working on it for the past month or so and boy does it show! My legs have been “dead” for the first week but then, after a 2 day break, they’ve become stronger and I can now go on for longer periods of time. I feel my whole body is in a much better state then when I first started and I have more energy on a daily basis.
PS: I never thought I would be needing a cooling fan but now I wouldn’t want to live without it!!!
WOW! That sounds awesome! You’ve made me want to save to get it now! I will probably be ready to get it in a month or two. Were you a total newbie when you started using this?
Yes, a total beginner and I’m loving this bike! It offers a lot of things for all levels, it feels high quality and will (hopefully) last a long time. Instead of getting a recumbent bike under $500 or even one under $700, save a bit and get this one. You’ll be thankful you did!
It is indeed difficult to transport but it will, in my opinion, last a long time since it’s so durable looking. You get what you pay for with this one.
This is indeed geared towards more experienced recumbent bikers but I think beginners will also like it. I’m one and I like it a lot because it has everything I need and more.
The number 1 recumbent bike under $1000 there is on the market right now. I would not buy anything else. It’s better to save a bit of money and get this one. With so many features, you’ll be making a great purchase for the price.