discounted indoor bikes

Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes with Arm Workouts

When I was recovering from my accident, I was looking for some sort of exercise bike to stay active and control my weight. So, I did some research and came across these recumbent exercise bikes with arm workouts that have foot pedals and arm pedals.

I tried one of these arm recumbent bikes and I love the low-impact and full-body workout. I ended up using it even after I was fully recovered. Years passed and I tried a few more of these arm and leg recumbent exercise bikes in order to write this review and guide.

I found out they are not all the same really, some of them offer a better ellipse motion which is easier on the knees while some are just like regular recumbent exercise bikes with circular motion. I do like them both but without any doubt, linear/ellipse motion is easier to pedal and puts less pressure on the knees.

In this article, I reviewed and compared some of the really best recumbent exercise bikes with arm and leg pedals that offer upper and lower body workouts. I covered all the aspects of these full body recumbent exercise bikes but if you still have any questions, let me know in the comment section below.

Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes with Arm Workouts | Comparison Table
Recumbent namesMy verdictRider supportFlywheel weightResistance typeResistance controlsDisplay typeMedia shelfPreset programsRotatable seat
Innova InverapyThe best value full body elliptical recumbent I have used5’2″ to 6’2″ | 350 Lbs9-Lb16-LEVELS OF MANUAL MAGNETICNO RESISTANT CONTROLS ON THE GRIPSNO BACKLIT & NO BLUETOOTHWITH TABLET HOLDERNONEYES
Stamina EliteA little overpriced and very little technology but offers fully body workout4'6" to 6'3" | 250 Lbs10-Lb8-LEVELS OF MANUAL MAGNETICNO RESISTANT CONTROLS ON THE GRIPSNO BACKLIT & NO BLUETOOTHWITHOUT TABLET HOLDERNONENO
Teeter FreeStepA little expensive and outdated technology but full body workout4'9" to 6'6" | 300 Lbs7-Lb13-LEVELS OF MANUAL MAGNETICNO RESISTANT CONTROLS ON THE GRIPSNO BACKLIT & NO BLUETOOTHWITH TABLET HOLDERNONENO

Innova RCT2025 Inverapy Recumbent Cross Trainer

Innova RCT2025 Inverapy Recumbent Cross Trainer

I’ve been really into fitness for a while now, always diving deep into evaluating exercise equipment. So, I’m genuinely excited to share my take on the Innova RCT2025 Inverapy Recumbent Cross Trainer after giving it a spin for the past 3 weeks.

This review is going to be a detailed one, trust me. We’ll go through all the unique features, performance metrics, how it stacks up against the competition, and most importantly, how it’s impacted my workout routine.

Now, when it comes to setting the Innova RCT2025 Inverapy apart from the rest, there are quite a few things that caught my attention. You see, it’s not like the other recumbent cross trainers, the ones from HCI, for instance. This one manages to be both budget-friendly and high-quality – a pretty rare combo.

Let’s talk about that swivel seat – it’s a game changer. Getting on and off this thing is a breeze, and trust me, that’s a big deal, especially for someone on recovery or who’s always struggling with mobility. The Teeter LT3? Well, it’s got a fixed seat, which just doesn’t cut it in comparison. The Inverapy’s swivel seat just gets me.

But there’s more. The adjustable leg harness with the secure buckle – genius move. It’s all about comfort and safety during workouts, something that most other recovery recumbent exercise bikes miss out on. Believe me, I’ve gone through quite a few models in this evaluation and buying guide.

Oh, and the seat belt – it’s a small detail that matters. I am currently in a good shape and not recovering from anything so I didn’t need to use the seat belt. But older people or those on recovery balancing while pedaling is not their strongest suit, so this seat belt thing is a real blessing. And the fact that it’s adjustable? Well, that just adds another layer of security and compatibility for people with different waist size.

Let’s talk pedals. These are not your regular pedals, no sir. They’ve got this grip and footrest combo that’s like nothing I’ve seen before. You’ve got three different leg positions to choose from – Maximum knee, Moderate knee, and Minimum knee – talk about customization!

Now, those adjustable handles – that’s what I call user-centric design. It’s like they thought of everything, even varying arm lengths. No more shoulder strain due to awkward angles.

And don’t get me started on those central handgrips. They’re basically my workout buddies. Whenever I needed support while adjusting my seat or when I wanted to give my arms a break, those handgrips had my back, literally.

The tablet holder? Oh, man, this is a stroke of genius. My 12.9″ iPad fits in there perfectly, making workouts way more entertaining and productive. Sure, the display isn’t the fanciest at 4×3-inch size and no backlit, but it’s way better than what Teeter and Stamina offer, hands down.

Now, about the size. It’s not huge, measuring 53″D, 35.8″W, and 45.7″H. Yeah, it’s a bit heavier than the Teeter model, but let’s be real – the 350-pound weight capacity is impressive. And the height range it caters to? 5.2 to 6.2 feet – that’s most of us covered.

Okay, let’s talk personal. From my point of view, the Innova RCT2025 Inverapy is all about adaptability and comfort. Those thoughtful features like the swivel seat, adjustable leg harness, and the whole pedal setup – they’re like a tailored experience just for me.

Comparing it to rivals like Teeter and Stamina? No contest. This thing stands out as the full package for anyone looking for innovation and inclusivity. I mean, it’s like they’re reading my fitness goals.

Now, after doing some real research, here’s the deal: the Innova RCT2025 Inverapy has some clear upsides and a few downsides. The unique features like the swivel seat and adjustable pedals? They totally step up the game. But hey, let’s not ignore that manual resistance mechanism – it’s not the best if you’re like me and need something more user-friendly.

In terms of resistance, I liked the Teeter’s seat side knob because I don’t need to pause my workout to change resistance. It would be great if they add an electronic resistance to this machine so you can change intensity with the controls on the handlebars.

Also, I think they need to add a better and bigger console because it’s outdated without Bluetooth, present programs, and backlit. I also wish its backrest was angle adjustable like Teeter’s backrest because sometimes when you want to sit more upright, it’s good to have that option.

Compared to its older versions, the Innova RCT2025 Inverapy is leagues ahead. They’ve taken the feedback seriously and come up with solutions. It’s like they’ve heard our concerns.

Performance-wise, this baby shines. The accessibility, adaptability, and the whole user support angle – they’ve nailed it. That swivel seat, the adjustable leg harness, and the different pedal positions? It’s like they’re speaking my workout language.

To wrap it up, the Innova RCT2025 Inverapy Recumbent Cross Trainer is more than just a piece of fitness gear. It’s a game-changer, designed for folks like me who want a low impact personalized workout experience. Sure, the manual resistance thing might be a minor hiccup, but honestly, the overall performance and unique features make it a top-tier choice in the recumbent cross trainer category. Whether you’re recovering, aiming for comfort, or targeting specific muscle groups, the Innova RCT2025 Inverapy is like that trusty workout buddy – reliable, versatile, and totally exceptional.

Innova RCT2025 Inverapy Pros:
  • The swivel seat design greatly enhances accessibility, making it easy to get on and off the machine, especially for those with mobility constraints.
  • The adjustable leg harness with a secure buckle provides comfort and safety during workouts, catering to users with different needs.
  • The inclusion of an adjustable seat belt adds an extra layer of safety, particularly beneficial for users with balance concerns.
  • The unique pedal design with adaptable footrests and three leg positions allows users to target a variety of leg and hip muscles.
  • The handles’ adaptability accommodates users with varying arm lengths, ensuring ergonomic comfort and preventing strain.
  • The tablet holder enhances workout entertainment and productivity, accommodating devices like iPads for easy access to entertainment or tracking.
  • The machine’s compact size makes it space-efficient for home use, fitting into smaller spaces while maintaining stability.
  • With a weight capacity of 350 pounds, it’s suitable for a wide range of users.
  • The design choices, such as the adjustable features and handgrips, emphasize user comfort and usability.
  • Features like the swivel seat and adjustable leg harness make the machine inclusive for users with varying levels of mobility.
Innova RCT2025 Inverapy Cons:
  • While the resistance mechanism can be adjusted, the 16 level range might not satisfy extremely advanced users looking for exceptionally high levels of resistance.
  • For users seeking advanced workout programs or interactive features, the Innova RCT2025 Inverapy might lack some of the more tech-savvy options available in other machines.
  • The manual resistance mechanism might not be the most user-friendly, potentially inconveniencing those with limited mobility or preferences for more dynamic adjustments.
  • The machine’s weight, while still manageable, is slightly heavier than some comparable models, which might be a consideration for those with limited strength.
  • While affordable considering its features, the Innova RCT2025 Inverapy might still have a higher price point compared to basic models without as many specialized features.
  • Depending on individual skills, assembling the machine might be a bit complex, potentially requiring professional assistance.
  • While functional, the display lacks intricate sophistication compared to competitors, which might matter for users seeking advanced tracking or data visualization.
  • Smaller range of user height capacity (5’2″ to 6’3″) compared to Teeter recumbent machines.
  • The fixed backrest might not be as versatile as fully adjustable backrests for certain workout preferences.
  • Unpopular brand and can go out of business and leave you without possibility to replace broken parts.

How Innova RCT2025 Evolved From Innova RBE3000

I’m excited to walk you through how the Innova RCT2025 has taken things up a notch from its predecessor, the Innova RBE3000. So, let’s dive in and explore the improvements that could really make a difference for folks on the lookout for a full-body recovery exercise machine.

If there’s one thing that catches the eye right away, it’s the price. The Innova RCT2025 comes in at $999, while the Innova RBE3000 was tagged at $399. Clearly, the RCT2025 is bringing in a whole bunch more features and a richer experience.

Moving up, the upper body design has seen a significant overhaul. The RCT2025 now flaunts four sets of handlebars, including both moving and fixed options. This is big news because it opens up a world of upper body workout possibilities. It’s not just about those arm muscles anymore; we’re talking shoulders, core, and back engagement. Now, remember the RBE3000? It had only two arm pedals that were more about your arm muscles, missing out on the rest.

When it comes to pedals, it’s all about comfort and impact reduction. The RCT2025 nailed it with large, comfy pedals that work in an angular motion. This translates to less strain on those joints compared to the circular and less comfortable pedals on the RBE3000.

Ah, the seat. The RCT2025 decided to make life easier with a rotatable seat. That’s right – mounting and dismounting just got a whole lot simpler. Perfect for folks who might be dealing with mobility issues. Now, contrast that with the RBE3000’s fixed seat. Not as friendly for those quick get-ons and offs, right?

Now, here’s where things really get interesting. The RCT2025 upped the game with a whopping 16 levels of magnetic resistance. This means you’ve got way more control over your workout intensity. On the other side, the RBE3000 could muster only 8 levels of resistance.

There are also some similarities. For example they are both full body workouts machines: Both the Innova RCT2025 and the Innova RBE3000 are all about giving you a shot at full body workouts. That’s some serious muscle engagement right there.

Weight Capacity is also another similarity. You’re looking at two machines that can handle up to 350 lbs with ease. Sturdy and reliable, just how you’d want it.

The consoles on both these models are like cousins – similar but not quite twins. They both dish out distance, time, counters, speed, and calories burned. Just remember, these are non-backlit, so no fancy light show here.

When it comes to materials, both the RCT2025 and RBE3000 are cut from the same cloth – alloy steel material. It’s all about making sure these machines stand the test of time.

Now, just a quick note on weight – the Innova RBE3000 is the lighter one, tipping the scales at 87 lbs, compared to the Innova RCT2025’s 110 lbs. So, if portability is a major factor, keep this in mind.

For those looking for a recovery-focused exercise machine or if you’re in the senior league, I’d say the Innova RCT2025 is where you should be looking. It’s easier on the joints and offers a more comfortable experience. But hey, if the budget is a bit tight, the Innova RBE3000 still has your back. Especially when you consider the pool of recumbent exercise bikes under $500, the RBE3000 emerges as a solid option.

Innova RCT2025 Machine
Innova RBE3000 Machine
FeaturesRCT2025RBE3000
Resistance16-Levels of manual magnetic (no auto resistance)8-Levels of manual magnetic (no auto resistance)
ProgramsNoneNone
FrameStep-throughStep-through
ConsoleDark 3″ x 4″ (very basic)Dark 3″ x 4″ (very basic)
ShelfWith tablet shelfWith tablet shelf
ProgramsNoneNone
Price$999$399
SeatRotatableFixed
ComfortMore comfortableLess comfortable
ArmsWith full motion arm exerciserWith half motion arm exercisers
MotionsAngular (less impact)Circular (more impact)
BackrestFixed (not adjustable or tilting)Fixed (not adjustable or tilting)
PedalsLarge comfortable pedalsSmall standard pedals
BluetoothNoNo
ApplicationsNoneNone
BidirectionalYesYes
Support5’2″ to 6’2″ | 350 Lbs5’2″ to 6’2″ | 350 Lbs
Innova recumbent exercise bikes comparison chart

Stamina Elite Total Body Recumbent Exercise Bike

Stamina Elite arme and leg recumbent exercise biike

The Stamina Elite recumbent exercise bike with arm workout is a highly rated and compact recumbent bike, making it a great option for those with limited floor space. This brand is known for producing compact equipment like the Stamina in Motion, and the Elite recumbent bike is no exception. Its two-in-one design allows for a full-body workout, making it an excellent value for money.

One of the most significant features of this recumbent bike is its step-through frame, which is ideal for senior users or those with limited mobility. The bike is also equipped with transport wheels, located at the front of the bike, making it easy to move around as needed.

The Stamina Elite recumbent bike stands out from other recumbent bikes with its moving handlebars, allowing users to work out both their upper and lower body simultaneously. Although resistance does not apply to the handlebars, the workout is still challenging and effective. For users who prefer resistance for their upper body workout, the Teeter may be a better option, albeit slightly pricier.

This compact recumbent bike has eight magnetic resistance levels that can be easily adjusted using a knob located below the console on the frame. Unfortunately, it’s not electronically adjustable like Schwinn, Nautilus, Sole, and 3G recumbent exercise bikes. So, a program can’t change your resistance to mimic uphill/downhill or stay within a target heart rate zone.

Also, every time you want to change resistance, you need to manually twist the resistance knob which often disrupts the pedaling fellow and is not ideal compared to those recumbent exercise bikes such as Nautilus that have resistance control buttons built into handlebars.

The pedals feature adjustable straps and are bi-directional, allowing users to pedal backward as well. The upper body pedals are adjustable fore/aft and can also be used in both directions. It is important to note that the upper-body pedals operate independently of the lower-body pedals. So, you can lean back and only use your legs like a regular recumbent stationary bike or lean forward and also use your arms.

You can use the foot pedals for a few moments and then the arm pedals. When using both arm and foot pedals there is no resistance for the arm pedals. They should have added an independent resistance system for the arm pedals like Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RB4631.

The Stamina Elite recumbent bike features a relatively soft, cushioned seat that can be adjusted four ways: forward, backward, up, and down, allowing for a personalized and comfortable ride. The backrest is also padded with an angle but is not adjustable. The hand grips on the side of the seat feature built-in pulse sensors to track the user’s heart rate.

No other recumbent exercise bike that I tried and added to this article allows vertical seat adjustment. It’s probably one of the most overlooked features of this dual-action recumbent machine making it a great fit for the elderly who can’t bend their knees to much. You can just raise the seat height which makes it easy for everyone to mount and dismount.

The construction of this total body recumbent bike supports up to 250 lbs of user weight, which may not be as impressive compared to other recumbent exercise bikes on the market, especially the Schwinn 270 which can take up to 300 lbs of user weight.

Also, because of its compact design, it has a smaller range of user height capacity from 4’6″ to 6’3″ which is less than many other compact recumbent machines I have tried. So, if you are taller than the mentioned height, you may want to stick with the Schwinn or Nautilus recumbent exercise bikes instead.

The console is expertly basic and lacks Bluetooth and ANT/+ connectivity. It’s only 2.5″ in width and 1.5″ in length and it doesn’t have any backlit but it tracks essential metrics such as speed, calories, heart rate, distance, and workout time. The bike also does not have a cooling fan, speaker, USB or MP3 ports.

There are no programs, user profiles, or wireless heart rate connectivity. So, you can’t save your daily workouts as you would on a Nautilus recumbent exercise bike.

While information regarding the flywheel weight is not available and we didn’t disassemble the whole bike to weigh the flywheel, the bike’s weight capacity suggests that it may be on the lighter side.

The pedal stroke and smoothness is okay at best but not as fluid as 3G or Nautilus R618, especially at higher resistance levels. The Stamina Elite recumbent bike does not require an electrical outlet and operates on two AA batteries.

Overall, the Stamina Elite recumbent exercise bike with arm workout is a good choice for those recovering from an injury or senior people seeking a compact, full-body workout machine with adjustable features and moving handlebars. Although it may not have all the bells and whistles of other recumbent bikes, it provides a quality workout at an affordable price point.

Stamina Elite Recumbent Pros:
  • A little more compact and space-saving design than other recumbent bikes I tried.
  • The step-through frame is ideal for senior users or those with limited mobility.
  • Moving handlebars allow for a full-body workout, not just leg workouts.
  • Built-in pulse sensors on hand grips to track heart rate.
  • Four-way adjustable seat (forward, backward, up, and down) for better bike fitting.
  • Adjustable upper-body pedals that can be used independently of the lower-body pedals.
  • Adjustable pedals with straps, bi-directional for both forward and backward pedaling.
Stamina Elite Recumbent Cons:
  • Resistance is not electronically adjustable and requires manual adjustment.
  • No resistance controls on the handlebars for easy resistance adjustment.
  • No independent resistance for upper body pedals when used in conjunction with foot pedals.
  • Overpriced and the backrest is fixed and doesn’t tilt.
  • Console is basic without a backlight and lacks Bluetooth and ANT/+ connectivity.
  • No cooling fan, speaker, USB charging port or MP3 ports.
  • No programs, user profiles, or wireless heart rate connectivity.
  • Lighter flywheel weight compared to a few other recumbent exercise bikes reviewed here.
  • Smaller range of user height capacity (4’6″ to 6’3″) compared to Nautilus recumbent machines.
  • Lower weight capacity (250 lbs) which is 50-lb less than standard recumbent exercise bikes like Sole R92.

How Stamina Elite Evolved From the Previous Model

The Stamina Elite arm and leg recumbent exercise bike is an evolution of the Stamina 346 leg recumbent exercise bike. The Stamina Elite has undergone several improvements to enhance user experience and address some of the issues found in the Stamina 346.

Firstly, the Stamina Elite has a step-through high adjustable frame, making it easier for users with knee issues to get on and off the bike. The frame also supports users between 4’6″ to 6’3″, which is slightly better shorter users than the Stamina 346’s range of support of 5’1″ to 6’4″.

Secondly, the Stamina Elite comes with arm exercise pedals, allowing you to work out your upper body while cycling which is great for those trying to recover after surgery or an accident. The Stamina 346 did not have this feature which means you can only use your legs, not arm and shoulders.

Thirdly, the Stamina Elite’s seat is extra padded and ergonomic with lumber support, making it more comfortable than the Stamina 346’s less padded and basic seat. The Stamina Elite’s seat is also adjustable both vertically and horizontally, while the Stamina 346’s seat is only adjustable horizontally, and it is difficult to adjust because the adjustment knob is located under the seat so you need off the bike to access it.

Unfortunately, both Stamina recumbent exercise bikes have dark 2.5″ x 1.5″ consoles with no programs. Also, both exercise bikes have eight levels of manual magnetic resistance, bidirectional movement, and a fixed backrest. The resistance system on both stationary recumbent bikes is outdated because you need to manually change them via a knob. They can’t automatically change to mimic Hill Climbing or Heart Rate programs like Schwinn or Nautilus recumbent exercise bikes.

Finally, the Stamina Elite lacks Bluetooth connectivity and applications, which are not available on the Stamina 346 as well. So, you can’t connect either of these recumbent exercise bikes to online cycling applications.

Also, Stamina Elite’s arm pedals don’t have independent resistance and the bike doesn’t have a basic tablet holder to place your devices.

Honestly, despite its quality, the Stamina Elite is overpriced at $999. Instead, I recommend the Sunny Health and Fitness SF-RB4631, which costs $399 and offers independently adjustable resistance for the hand pedals, making it a superior choice for anyone looking for more features at a lower price.

Stamina Elite Total Body recumbent stationary bike
Stamina Elite Total Body
Stamina 346 Recumbent
Stamina 346 Recumbent
FeaturesStamina EliteStamina 346
Resistance8-Levels of manual magnetic (no auto resistance)8-Levels of manual magnetic (no auto resistance)
ProgramsNoneNone
FrameStep-throughStep-through
ConsoleDark 2.5″ x 1.5″ (very basic)Dark 2.5″ x 1.5″ (very basic)
ShelfNo tablet shelfWith tablet shelf
ProgramsNoneNone
Price$999$279
SeatExtra padded and ergonomicLess padding and basic
ComfortMore comfortableLess comfortable
ArmsWith arm exercise pedalsNo arm exercise pedals
AdjustmentVertical and horizontal seat adjustment (easy-to-adjust system)Only horizontal seat adjustment (difficult to adjust system)
BackrestFixed (not adjustable or tilting)Fixed (not adjustable or tilting)
PedalsStandard pedalsStandard pedals
BluetoothNoNo
ApplicationsNoneNone
BidirectionalYesYes
Support4’6″ to 6’3″ | 250 Lbs5’1″ to 6’4″ | 300 Lbs
Stamina recumbent exercise bikes comparison chart

Teeter LT3 Elliptical Recumbent Exercise Bike

Teeter Freestep arm and leg recumbent exercise biike

The Teeter LT3 elliptical-recumbent exercise bike offers a great full-body workout, including upper-body exercise, with a unique pull and push motion that is more intense and effective than other recumbent arm exercisers like the Stamina. It has an adjustable seat to accommodate riders from 4’9″ to 6’6″ tall, and a solid durable frame that can support up to 300-lb user weight.

While the Teeter LT3 has been successful among those who want a comfortable full-body workout with minimum impact, the company has also an older and cheaper version called the LT1, which offers a few inferior features. I will talk in more detail about the differences between the two models down below.

The Teeter LT3 is a recumbent exercise bike with arm movements that features whisper Quiet technology and commercial-grade engineering, allowing you to exercise indoors at any time of day or night without creating a noisy environment. It is covered by a 1-year protection plan which is not impressive compared to Sole and Nautilus recumbent exercise bikes.

The unique and smooth pedal motion path of the Teeter LT3 is designed to protect your knees, eliminating the risk of injury-inducing knee shear caused by typical cardio machines that rely on circular bike motions. It is recommended for seniors and those in recovery. However, it is important to note that the step-up height is a bit more than traditional recumbent bikes.

The Teeter LT3 also features adjustable handlebars, which users can loosen the knob and adjust the hand-grips in and out to work on different muscle groups. When resistance is applied to the pedals, it also applies to the handlebars for a more challenging upper body workout. The seat and backrest are padded and fully adjustable, allowing users of different sizes to find the correct position for exercising.

One potential downside of the Teeter LT1 is that the seat is fixed and cannot be turned/swiveled to the right or left side, which could be an issue for some users, particularly seniors or those in recovery who may have trouble mounting and dismounting. As an alternative for the elderly, I suggest the Innova RCT2025, which is very similar to the Teeter but has a swivel saddle and a leg holder for added stability.

The Teeter LT3 offers 13 levels of manually adjustable magnetic resistance for the handlebars and pedals, offering a smooth and quiet ride. However, it is not electronically adjustable, so users must manually twist the little knob on the right side below the seat to change intensity. It would be more convenient if the resistance could be adjusted with a button on the handlebars to avoid disrupting the workout.

The computer of the Teeter LT3 is not back-lit and it’s extremely basic, but it allows users to monitor basic workout data like time, distance, speed, and calories. While it lacks some bells and whistles like Bluetooth, a cooling fan, and speakers, these features are not crucial for many users.

Despite its larger size compared to folding exercise bikes, the Teeter LT1 takes up less floor space compared to treadmills, ellipticals, and rowing machines. Transporting it is made easier with solid transport wheels located in front of the frame. It doesn’t require an electricity plugin to start the console, and instead, it uses AAA batteries which are included with the stationary bike.

Overall, the Teeter LT3 offers a great cardio workout and is the best recumbent bike for home use for individuals looking to work out their upper and lower body. With this recumbent exercise bike, you can burn more calories than with any other recumbent exercise bike in this guide in this guide and engage all major muscle groups to build strength and burn more calories, and reposition the handles to target your biceps and triceps.

Teeter Freest Recumbent Pros:
  • It provides upper and lower body workouts (not just leg workouts).
  • Magnetic resistance is applied on handlebars and pedals which is quiet.
  • Comfortable and cushioned adjustable seat and backrest.
  • It has commercial-quality bearing durability.
  • The linear motion which makes it extremely low impact on the knees.
  • Adjustable handlebars with up to 4 grip options to work out different arm and shoulder muscles.
  • Large pedals make it convenient for all fitness levels including those on recovery.
Teeter Freest Recumbent Cons:
  • No Bluetooth connectivity and not compatible with chest strap.
  • Doesn’t have pulse sensors to provide your heart rate.
  • Its screen is too basic without backlit and very small which is hard to see.
  • Handlebars and don’t pedals don’t have independent resistance.
  • Its resistance is only manually adjustable, not electronically.
  • No preset programs or possibility to create user profiles.
  • Saddle doesn’t swivel which makes it difficult for the elderly to mount the bike.
  • Saddle is not horizontally adjustable which might prevent proper bike fitting for some.
  • Backrest is fixed and doesn’t adjust or tilt for better support.

How Teeter LT3 Evolved From the Previous Model

The Teeter LT3 has undergone several improvements and modifications compared to its previous model, the Teeter LT1, to provide better performance and comfort to its users. One of the significant improvements is the seat, which is now 17 inches wide and 11 inches long, with 27% thicker cushion, providing a more comfortable experience than the Teeter LT1, which had a 15.5-inch wide and 10-inch long seat with a 27% thinner cushion. The wheels have also been upgraded in the Teeter LT3, with higher quality, larger transport wheels compared to the lower quality, smaller transport wheels of the LT1.

The handlebars of the Teeter LT3 are longer and dipped, providing a better grip than the shorter and foam-covered handlebars of the LT1. The Teeter LT3 also has superior ball bearings compared to the inferior ball bearings of the LT1, resulting in smoother and quieter operations. The pedals of the Teeter LT3 are 6″ x 12″ with added rubber, providing a better grip than the 6″ x 12″ plastic pedals of the LT1.

The resistance mechanism in both the Teeter LT3 and LT1 is 13-level manual magnetic for pedals and handlebars, without independent resistance. Both models have three recline adjustment settings, no backlit console, no app compatibility, and a 7 lbs flywheel. They are both bidirectional, allowing for forward and backward motion. Unfortunately, both Teeter recumbent exercise bikes are only vertically adjustable but not horizontally which is a major factor for optimal comfort.

One advantage of Teeter LT3 and LT1 is that they burn more calories than traditional recumbent exercise bikes as they engage both the upper and lower body. However, they are bulkier and require more space, plus they are difficult to mount and dismount compared to traditional recumbent exercise bikes as they are not step-through, and their seats do not swivel. As such, they are not ideal for the elderly or those in recovery.

However, for the elderly and those in recovery, the Innova RCT2025 is recommended over the Teeter recumbent cross trainers because its seat swivels and is easier to get on and off the machine.

Teeter LT3 Recumbent
Teeter LT3 Recumbent
Teeter LT1 Recumbent
FeaturesTeeter LT3Teeter LT1
Price$999$829
Seat17″ Width x 11″ Length with 27% thicker cushion (more comfortable)15.5″ Width x 10″ Length with 27% thinner cushion (less comfortable)
WheelsHigher quality larger transport wheelsLower quality smaller transport wheels
HandlebarsLonger and dipped for better gripShorter and foam cover
BearingsSuperior ball bearingsInferior ball bearings
Pedals6″x 12″ with added rubber6″x 12″ plastic
Resistance13-level manual magnetic for pedals and handlebars (no independent resistance)13-level manual magnetic for pedals and handlebars (no independent resistance)
ProgramsNoneNone
Backrest3 Recline adjustment settings3 Recline adjustment settings
BluetoothNoNo
BidirectionalYes (forward and backward)Yes (forward and backward)
FrameStep-OverStep-Over
OperationPedals and handles work together (not independently)Pedals and handles work together (not independently)
SwivelNo right or left seat swivelNo right or left seat swivel
ConsoleNo backlit 2.5×2″No backlit 2.5×2″
AdjustmentVertically adjustable (not horizontally)Vertically adjustable (not horizontally)
ApplicationsZero (not compatible with any apps)Zero (not compatible with any apps)
Flywheel7 lbs7 lbs
Warranty2 Years warranty1 Year warranty
Support4’9″ to 6’6″ | 300 Lbs4’9″ to 6’6″ | 300 Lbs
Teeter LT3 and LT1 recumbent exercise bikes comparison

Sayed
Sayed

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. If you have any questions or suggestion, you can contact me at sayed@yourexercisebike.com.

We will be happy to hear your thoughts

Leave a reply

Your Exercise Bike
Logo