7 Comfortable Recumbent Exercise Bikes For Short People
Are you a short person? Do you have trouble finding recumbent exercise bikes that are the right size for you? If so, you’re in luck. In this blog post, we will recommend some of the best recumbent exercise bikes for short people.
When it comes to finding the best recumbent exercise bike for a short person, there are a few things you need to take into account.
We will take a look at some of the best stationary recumbent bikes for shorter people and what you should keep in mind when shopping for one.
So, if you are shorter than average and looking for a new way to get fit with minimum impact with a recumbent exercise bike in your living room, keep reading!
Best recumbent stationary bike for short legs
| Name | Verdict | Programs | Grip controls | Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nautilus R168 | Best Value: Beats every recumbent exercise bike for short people on this list for value and features. | 29 | Yes | Fan, speakers, Bluetooth, tablet tray, and accessory tray. |
| 3G Elite RB | A little overpriced but the most durable option on this list with a highly ergonomic design. | 12 | Yes | Extra large and comfy pedals, tablet tray, bottle holder, seat-tilt adjustment. |
| Nautilus R616 | Good Value: High quality at an affordable price but not as comfy as R618. | 29 | No | Fan, speakers, Bluetooth, tablet tray, and accessory tray. |
| Xterra SB2.5r | Good Value: higher quality than Sunny and Circuit but not many advanced features. | 24 | No | None |
| Circuit AMZ | Good Value: better than Sunny and Xterra but a little pricier as well. | 15 | No | Tablet, bottle, and accessory holders. |
| Schwinn 27 | Good Value: expensive but high-quality recumbent bike. | 25 | No | Fan, charging port, Bluetooth, tablet, and bottle holders. |
| SF-RB4850 | Good Value: low cost and less durability. | 24 | No | Tablet and bottle holders |
Nautilus R618 Short Person Recumbent Bike
The Nautilus R618 is the best recumbent stationary bike for people with short legs. Unlike other stationary bikes that have a long seat and a high back, the Nautilus R618 has a shorter seat and a lower back, making it more comfortable for people with short legs.
Additionally, the Nautilus R618 has a smaller pedal radius, which makes it easier for people with short legs to reach the pedals.
The Nautilus R618 also has a higher weight capacity than other recumbent bikes, making it ideal for people who are overweight or obese.
But more important than everything else is the comfort that is built into this recumbent stationary bike for short legs.
For example, it has resistance adjustment controls on the handgrips. So, if you have shorter arms and can’t reach the controls on the screen while seated, you can simply the intensity of your ride with the buttons on the handlebars.
I personally love the airflow backrest and the gel seat on this exercise bike as well. Aside from the fact that you have full control over its adjustment, you can set it for an hour and burn calories on Nautilus R618 without feeling hotspots on your rear.
Finally, the Nautilus R618 is equipped with a heart rate monitor and make preset workout programs, making it easy to track your fitness progress.
3G Cardio Elite RB Recumbent Stationary Bike
Finding an exercise bike that is comfortable and easy to use can be a challenge, especially if you are short. The 3G Cardio Elite RB Recumbent Stationary Bike is one of the best recumbent exercise bikes for short person.
It is easy to get on and off, and the seat is adjustable so you can find the perfect position even if you are shorter than average.
The bike also has a large, easy-to-read display that shows your speed, distance, time, and calories burned. Best of all, the recumbent stationary bike is quiet and smooth, making it perfect for a home gym.
It has three superior features compared to other recumbent exercise bikes for short persons. Its backrest is meshed and really comfortable, its seat adjusts easily without the need to get off the bike, and its resistance is adjustable via controls on the handlebars.
So, if you are recovering from an injury or your arms and legs are shorter, you can adjust intensity without leaning forward or getting out of the seat. It’s always more convenient to change programs and adjust the resistance without having to interrupt your workout or get out of the bike.
With its many features and benefits, including the very unique seat-tilt-adjustment possibility, the 3G Cardio Elite RB Recumbent Stationary Bike is the perfect choice for a short person who wants to get fit at home.
Nautilus R616 Recumbent Bike For Short Legs
There are a few top recumbent exercise bikes for short people in the market, but the Nautilus R616 Recumbent Bike definitely takes the cake when it comes to quality and price.
It is cheaper than both the Nautilus R618 and 3G recumbent exercise bikes, yet it does not sacrifice quality in any way.
In fact, it is even more sturdy and durable than its pricier counterparts, making it a great investment for anyone looking for a top-quality recumbent exercise bike for short legs and arms on a budget.
Additionally, the R616 is specifically designed for tall and shorter people, so you can be sure that it will provide a comfortable and efficient workout no matter your height.
Although it doesn’t have the easy-access resistance controls on the handlebars like the Nautilus R618 recumbent, it does have an easy-to-reach seat adjustment system to slide it back and forth to find the perfect fit for your legs.
All in all, the Nautilus R616 is the perfect choice for shorter persons looking for a top-quality recumbent exercise bike that won’t break the bank.
XTERRA SB2.5r Stationary Recumbent Exercise Bike
If you’re looking for a stationary exercise bike that won’t break the bank, the XTERRA SB2.5r is a great option. This bike is designed with a highly adjustable seat which is great for people with short legs. Plus, it has a step-through design so it’s easy to get on and off.
It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of some of the more expensive models, but it does have a sturdy frame and a smooth pedaling motion. Plus, it’s available for a fraction of the price.
Some of the features that I noticed it doesn’t have are the resistance controls on the handlebars, Bluetooth, and gel padding on the seat. It also doesn’t have a bottle holder which is a shame considering this exercise bike is built for a cardio workout.
Thankfully, the quality of the actually stationary recumbent bike itself is good. Of course, it wouldn’t be my first choice, but if you’re looking for a basic stationary exercise bike under $400, the XTERRA SB2.5r is a great option, I think.
Circuit Fitness AMZ-587R Recumbent Exercise
If you’re looking for a piece of exercise equipment that’s gentle on your joints but still provides a great workout, a recumbent exercise bike like this Circuit Fitness AMZ is a great option.
The Circuit Fitness AMZ-587R Recumbent Exercise Bike is a top-rated choice for seniors and those with shorter legs, thanks to its comfortable design and easy-to-use features.
The bike has twenty-four levels of electronic magnetic resistance, so you can tailor your workout to your fitness level. Plus, the large seat and backrest are designed to support your body and minimize stress on your joints.
And the built-in heart rate monitor ensures that you stay within your target heart rate zone during your workout. Its seat adjusts forward and backward easily.
There is also a bottle holder, phone holder, and tablet holder so you can keep all your device close while exercising. On top of all those features, there are also 15 preset workouts built to choose from.
With all of these features, it’s no wonder that the Circuit Fitness AMZ-587R Recumbent Exercise Bike is a favorite among seniors and shorter people.
Schwinn Fitness 270 Recumbent Exercise Bike
The Schwinn Fitness 270 Recumbent Exercise Bike is an excellent choice for short people who are looking for a quality recumbent bike.
It’s comfortable, easy to use, and has a wide range of resistance levels that make it perfect for beginners and experienced riders alike.
One of the best features of the exercise bike is its compact size, which makes it an ideal choice for small apartments or other limited spaces.
The bike also comes with a variety of workout programs that can be customized to your fitness goals, making it an ideal choice for anyone who wants to get in shape.
In short, the Schwinn Fitness 270 Recumbent Exercise Bike is an excellent choice for anyone who is looking for an affordable, high-quality recumbent bike, especially for shorter people because it has a good range of seat sliding adjustments.
Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RB4850 Recumbent Bike
The Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RB4850 Recumbent Bike is an excellent recumbent exercise bike for short people. It is not as high quality as Schwinn and Nautilus or 3G, but it is still an affordable compromise.
The bike has a compact frame and a comfortable seat. The pedal straps are adjustable and the bike has a smooth, quiet ride thanks to its electronic magnetic resistance system.
This exercise bike is easy to assemble and is very lightweight, making it easy to move around. The bike does not have all the bells and whistles of the more expensive brands, but it is a good value for the price.
What is a recumbent exercise bike?
A recumbent exercise bike is a stationary bike that allows you to pedal while reclining back. This makes it easier on your back and neck and can be more comfortable for people with joint pain. In fact, the recumbent is one of the best exercise bikes for knee rehab because of its low-impact workout.
Recumbent bikes also tend to have more cushioning and a greater range of motion than upright bikes, making them good choices for people who are just starting out with biking or who have joint problems.
Unlike pretty much any other type of exercise bike, a recumbent bike has a huge backrest that allows the rider to lean back in a relaxed position while cycling.
How to measure your inseam for a recumbent exercise bike?
To measure your inseam for a recumbent exercise bike, you will need a soft measuring tape and to be wearing shorts or pants.
To begin, stand with your back against a wall and put your feet together without wearing shoes. Next, have someone measure from the floor to the top of your inner thigh. This is your inseam measurement.
Once you have this measurement, you can use it to find the appropriate size bike for you. If you are looking to buy online, most retailers list this measurement to make sure it fits you when ordering a bike.
Who can use a recumbent exercise bike?
Almost anyone can use a recumbent exercise bike, as they are designed to be easy to use with minimum impact. This makes them ideal for people who are new to exercise, or who have limited mobility.
Recumbent stationary bikes are also a good choice for older people, as they tend to be more gentle on the joints than traditional exercise bikes.
How much does a comfortable recumbent bike cost?
Comfortable exercise recumbent bikes can cost anywhere from $500 to $1500, with the average price around $800. The more expensive models often have more features, such as a touchscreen monitor, app connectivity, built-in fans, and MP3 players.
Often more expensive exercise recumbent bikes also come with better warranties of up to 10 years and US-based customer support.
Is it easy to assemble a compact recumbent exercise bike?
Yes, it is easy to assemble a compact recumbent exercise bike. It usually comes with the major parts pre-assembled and a simple instruction booklet that will guide you through the process.
You will need to attach the front base/wheel, the seat, and the pedals. Some bikes also require you to install the console, which typically snaps into place. The whole process should take less than 30 minutes and the tools are required.
How many calories can you burn on a recumbent exercise bike?
You can burn a lot of calories on a recumbent exercise bike, but it depends on how much effort you put into it. If you’re just pedaling along at a leisurely pace, you might not burn many calories. However, if you’re pedaling hard and sweating up a storm, you can easily burn hundreds of calories in just 30 minutes.
So, how many calories can you burn on a recumbent exercise bike? It really depends on how hard you’re working and your resistance level.
If you’re putting in a moderate amount of effort, you could probably burn around 200-300 calories in 30 minutes. However, if you’re working really hard and pushing yourself to your limits, you could end up burning up to 500 calories per hour.
How to choose a recumbent exercise bike for short people?
As I mentioned in the beginning of this post, not only I will review but will also compare the best recumbent bikes for shorter legs.
We’ll also provide a few tips on how to choose the right bike for your needs. When it comes to choosing a recumbent bike, leg length is an important consideration.
Some stationary bikes are better suited for shorter legs, while others are better for longer legs. If you have shorter legs, you’ll want to make sure that the bike you choose has a shorter seat-to-pedal distance.
This will ensure that you’re able to reach the pedals without having to stretch too far and without hurting your knees. You’ll also want to make sure that the pedals are positioned close together so that your feet don’t overlap.
Another thing to consider is the height of the seat. A seat that’s too low can be uncomfortable, and a seat that’s too high can be difficult to get on and off.
Some recumbent stationary bikes have adjustable seats, which can be a great option if you’re not sure what height will work best for you.
It’s also important to look at some features such as tablet holder, cooling fan, speakers, and Bluetooth connectivity. Although these extras may not affect the quality of the recumbent exercise bike for short people, they do help keeping you longer on the machine. So, you would burn more calories.
If you want to burn more calories and use your arms at the same time with your legs, you would need to find a recumbent exercise bike with arm workout rather than a traditional recumbent exercise bike.
Lastly, you’ll want to consider the riding position of the bike. Some people prefer a more upright position, while others like to recline further back. For more information on how to choose a recumbent exercise bike, read this article I have written recently.
How to make a recumbent exercise bike more comfortable?
When it comes to making a recumbent exercise bike more comfortable, there are a few key things you can do. First, be sure to wear tight-fitting clothing. This will help reduce chafing and make the ride more comfortable overall.
You may also want to use a cushion to help soften the seat and make it more comfortable. There are many gel seat cushions for recumbent bikes that can also be used while driving and on the dining table.
Finally, be sure to wear the right shoes for your workout. Wearing sneakers or other supportive shoes will help keep your feet in place and make pedaling much easier on your body.
Can a 4.9 feet person use a recumbent exercise bike?
Yes, shorter people can easily use a recumbent exercise bike that adjusts to fit their body size. There are various adjustments that can be made on most bikes, such as the seat height and the pedal direction so that anyone can use them comfortably.
Additionally, many recumbent exercise bikes come with built-in adjustable footrests so that small feet don’t have to dangle while pedaling. So if you’re wondering whether or not a four-and-a-half-foot tall person can use a recumbent exercise bike, the answer is probably yes!
Plus, you could always use a cushion behind your back if you can’t properly lean when pedaling on a recumbent exercise bike. But of course, that’s if you can’t find a recumbent exercise bike that doesn’t fit you.
What is the difference between Schwinn and Nautilus recumbent bikes?
There definitely are some key differences between Schwinn and Nautilus recumbent bikes – most notably, that Nautilus generally offers more features and options than Schwinn.
This is likely because Nautilus is the more premium brand from the same parent company, Core Health and Fitness LLC. However, both brands make excellent recumbent bikes that can provide a great workout.
Some key differences to consider between the two brands include:
- Nautilus typically has more programs and resistance levels than Schwinn, so you can find a workout that’s just right for you. Schwinn usually has fewer options in this regard.
- Nautilus often has more bells and whistles in terms of features – for instance has built in resistance controls on the grips and gel seat padding.
- Nautilus recumbent exercise bikes are often more expensive than Schwinn Fitness recumbent stationary bikes because of their extra features.
What are the benefits of recumbent exercise bikes?
Recumbent exercise bikes are especially beneficial for elderly or injured people who have difficulty using traditional upright bicycles.
They offer a low-impact workout that is gentle on the joints and helps to improve overall fitness and well-being. There are many other benefits to using a recumbent exercise bike, including:
- They are more comfortable than spin bikes, as they allow you to recline while you pedal. This takes pressure off your back and neck, and can be helpful if you have any injuries or health conditions that make cycling uncomfortable.
- They are good for people who are overweight or obese, as they place less strain on the lower body than an upright bike does. This makes them a great option for people who are just starting to exercise, or who have joint pain.
- They can help improve your cardiovascular health, as they increase your heart rate and help you burn up to 600 calories per hours.
- They can also help improve your mood and reduce stress level.
- Another health benefit of recumbent exercise bike is increased strength and muscle tone.
- Stationary recumbent bikes can help improve joint flexibility and range of motion.
- A very important benefits of using a recumbent exercise bike is improved posture and balance.
Conclusion
If you are a short person, finding the right recumbent exercise bike can be a challenge. We’ve compiled a list of the best bikes for short people to help make your decision easier. Our top pick is the Nautilus R618 Recumbent Bike because it has an adjustable seat and handlebars to ensure a comfortable fit. The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RB4850 also comes highly recommended for its low price and great features. Do you have another recommendation? Let us know in the comments below!
Sayed Hosseiny
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.
