Sole SB900 Exercise Bike: A Hands-On Review After 1000+ Miles

After going through three stationary bikes in just 6 months, I decided it was time to invest in a top-tier indoor cycle for another review. Although I bought the old version of the SB900 and I am happy with it, the 2025 Sole SB900 is even more impressive because of its significant upgrades, including a lighter perimeter-weighted flywheel, a better tablet holder, an improved display, and easier-to-reach bottle holders. I managed to get it at a steep discount for under $550, which made it an even more tempting choice.

The bike arrived on time and in good condition, but at 150 lbs (new version is 123 lbs), moving it was no easy task. I had to call in reinforcements to get it indoors, and even then, it was a struggle. Assembly was straightforward except for the console, which had two different sets of instructions that caused some confusion. Once set up, the bike felt rock solid and had a premium feel, similar to the ones I’ve used in gyms. The numerous adjustments made it easy to find a comfortable riding position, and I could tell it was built to last.

One of the biggest reasons I chose the Sole SB900 was the magnetic resistance system. I needed a quiet bike that wouldn’t disturb others in my home, and this one delivered. It’s nearly silent, smooth, and doesn’t require ongoing maintenance like friction-based bikes. Another major selling point was that it doesn’t lock you into a paid subscription. Unlike other brands that force you into monthly memberships just to access basic resistance controls, the SB900 allows full functionality without extra costs.

While the performance of the bike is impressive, there are a few drawbacks. The console, while functional, feels outdated. It provides basic metrics like RPM, speed, distance, and calories burned, but it lacks smart connectivity features found in more modern bikes. The software menus could also be more user-friendly, especially when customizing workouts. I can save favorite programs, but not custom templates, which forces me to navigate through multiple menus every time I want to use my preferred workout. It’s a minor annoyance on the old version of SB900, but has been addressed on the new version.

Sole’s customer support was another downside. Before purchasing, I had a few questions, but they never responded. I’ve seen similar complaints from other buyers, which makes me concerned about warranty support if I ever run into issues. Given that this is a high-quality, durable bike, I hope I never need to rely on their service.

Overall, after riding over 1000 miles and completing 60+ workouts, I can confidently say the Sole SB900 is one of the best-value indoor cycling bikes under $1000. It’s quiet, smooth, sturdy, and has everything needed for an intense home workout. It may not have the smartest tech, but if you’re looking for a reliable, no-subscription indoor bike that just works, this is a solid choice. Just be prepared for some heavy lifting to get it into place.

Sole SB900 vs. SB1200: Key Differences & Which Bike Suits You Best

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SOLE Fitness SB900 Indoor Cycling Bike

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SOLE Fitness SB1200 Indoor Cycling Bike

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Sole Fitness has built a reputation for designing high-quality, durable indoor cycling bikes, and the SB900 and SB1200 are two of their top models. While both bikes offer a solid, smooth ride with magnetic resistance, they cater to different user preferences. The SB1200 is the more advanced model with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, built-in workout programs, WiFi, and Bluetooth speakers, making it ideal for those who want a connected, interactive workout experience. Meanwhile, the SB900 is a more budget-friendly option with a simpler digital display and fewer smart features, but still provides the same smooth, quiet resistance and sturdy build.

The biggest upgrade in the SB1200 is its smart connectivity. With WiFi, preloaded apps, and Bluetooth integration, you can stream workouts and connect to fitness apps without using your phone, tablet or TV. If you enjoy following structured workouts or streaming classes directly from your bike, the SB1200 is the better choice. However, if you prefer a no-frills cycling experience without extra tech distractions, the SB900 is a great value at a lower price.

Another key difference is the display. The SB1200 features a 10.1-inch touchscreen, while the SB900 has a smaller 3×4-inch, basic digital display. This affects how easily you can navigate workout data and programs. The SB1200 also has 12 user-defined workout programs compared to just 1 manual program on the SB900, giving you more variety and customization options.

That said, both bikes have the same 35 lb flywheel, 100 levels of magnetic resistance, and SPD-compatible pedals, ensuring a smooth and quiet ride regardless of which model you choose. However, at 127 lbs, the SB1200 is slightly heavier, making it a bit more difficult to move compared to the 123 lb SB900.

Ultimately, if you want smart features, app integration, and touchscreen controls, the SB1200 is worth the extra cost. But if you just need a solid indoor bike with great performance at a lower price, the SB900 delivers outstanding value without unnecessary tech features.

Best Sole SB900 Alternatives: My Top Hands-On Recommendations

After testing and comparing several indoor cycling bikes, I’ve found a couple of solid alternatives to the Sole SB900 that cater to different needs and budgets. If you’re looking for automatic resistance and app compatibility, the Echelon EX5 is an excellent choice. If you want a more budget-friendly spin bike with good features, the Joroto X4S delivers surprising value. Here’s my experience with both and why they might be a better fit for you.

Feature	Sole SB900	Echelon EX5	Joroto X4S
Price	$1,199.99	$999.99	$599.99
Display	3×4″ Dim Digital Display	No built-in display (requires phone/tablet)	3×4″ Backlit Digital Display
Resistance Type	Magnetic (manual adjustment)	Magnetic (manual & auto-adjustment)	Magnetic (manual adjustment)
Flywheel Weight	35 lbs	28 lbs	35 lbs
Resistance Levels	100 Levels	32 Levels	100 Levels
Auto-Resistance	No	Yes (works with Zwift, Peloton, Echelon Fit)	No
Bluetooth Connectivity	Yes (newer models only)	Yes (syncs with apps & transmits full workout data)	Yes (only transmits RPM)
Compatible Apps	Sole (Zwift and Peloton via QZ)	Zwift, Peloton, Echelon Fit	Some third-party apps (limited data transfer)
SPD Pedals	Yes (SPD/Toe Clip)	Yes (SPD/Toe Clip)	No (standard pedals with toe cages)
Tablet Holder	Yes (fixed position)	Yes (angle adjustable)	Yes (large & stable, fits laptops)
USB Charging	No	Yes	No
Weight	123 lbs	105 lbs	108 lbs
Key Takeaways	The Sole SB900 is great for those who don’t need app integration or auto-resistance but want a sturdy, quiet bike with 100 manual resistance levels.	The Echelon EX5 is the best choice for auto-resistance and app compatibility, making it ideal for those who use Zwift or Peloton.	The Joroto X4S is a budget-friendly option that still provides a solid 35 lb flywheel and Bluetooth connectivity, though its data transfer is limited.

Echelon EX5 – A Smart Alternative With Auto-Resistance

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The Echelon EX5 is one of my personal favorites and a bike I’ve used for quite some time. While it doesn’t have a built-in display, you must use your phone or tablet to track your progress. However, the trade-off is worth it if you value connectivity and smart features.

One of its biggest advantages over the Sole SB900 is its motorized magnetic resistance. Unlike the SB900’s manually adjustable resistance, the Echelon EX5 can automatically adjust resistance levels when paired with apps like Zwift, Peloton, or Echelon Fit. This is a game-changer if you enjoy structured workouts where the bike matches resistance to the instructor’s cues or terrain changes.

Another bonus is its adjustable tablet holder and USB charging port, both of which are missing on the SB900. The angle-adjustable holder allows you to position your screen for better visibility, which is something I really liked during my rides. The Bluetooth sensors on the EX5 also send key workout metrics (RPM, speed, resistance level, and wattage) to apps, making it a much smarter bike than the SB900 in terms of tracking and automation.

If you’re someone who enjoys interactive training and wants a bike that syncs seamlessly with fitness apps, the Echelon EX5 is one of the best alternatives—and it often costs less than the SB900.

Joroto X4S – A Budget-Friendly Alternative that Delivers

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If you’re looking for a more affordable option without sacrificing too much quality, the Joroto X4S is a great pick. I was pleasantly surprised by how well this bike performed for the price.

One standout feature is its backlit display, which I actually found easier to read than the SB900’s compact digital screen. It also has Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to sync it with fitness apps. However, there’s a catch—it only transmits RPM data, so resistance levels, speed, and power output aren’t shared with apps. This is where the Echelon EX5 outshines it, as the EX5 sends all key workout metrics for a more complete tracking experience.

Despite this limitation, the Joroto X4S is a well-built bike with a 35 lb flywheel that delivers a smooth ride. The tablet holder is sturdy and large, and I was even able to place my MacBook Air on it without any issues. That’s something I can’t say for a lot of bikes in this price range.

One downside is that the pedals are not SPD-compatible, so if you prefer cycling shoes, you’d have to swap them out. But considering the lower price point, this is understandable.

If you want to spend less but still get a solid, smooth-riding indoor bike, I definitely recommend the Joroto X4S. It’s not as feature-packed as the Echelon EX5, but for casual riders or those who just need a basic yet reliable bike, it’s a great value.

Sole SB900 Assembly, Shipping, Size, and Warranty – What to Expect

When I ordered my Sole SB900, I was pleasantly surprised that shipping was free with curbside delivery. However, if you don’t want to deal with moving or assembling the bike yourself, Sole offers delivery upgrades, including Room of Choice for $199 or Room of Choice with Assembly for $350. If you’re not comfortable lifting 123 pounds up stairs or through tight spaces, I’d highly recommend considering one of these options.

Assembly was a breeze and took me around 30–40 minutes on my own. With two people, you could probably cut that down even further. When I first opened the box, I expected a pile of small parts and a complicated process, but I was relieved to find that most of the bike was already pre-assembled. The floor support bars, handlebars, pedals, and monitor were the only components that needed attaching, and everything fit together smoothly.

I used the included tools, which worked fine, though if you have a good set of tools at home, you might find them a little easier to work with. That said, I never felt the need to reach for my own tools—the provided ones did the job. The instruction manual was clear and well-documented, but honestly, you could probably assemble the bike without it. Still, I’d recommend following along just to be safe.

The only tricky part was maneuvering the heavy frame into position. If you’re assembling the bike alone, I suggest bringing in the pieces one by one from the doorstep instead of dragging the whole box. If you have a second person to hold the frame steady while you attach the supports, it will make things even easier.

My Sole SB900 arrived on time and in good condition, but I’ve read some frustrating delivery experiences from other buyers. Some have reported that delivery dates were rescheduled at the last minute, while others had issues with oversized delivery trucks damaging driveways or leaving behind shipping pallets. If you live in a tight residential area, I’d recommend keeping an eye on the tracking details and reaching out to the carrier if needed.

One thing I love about this bike is its small footprint. Compared to a treadmill or elliptical, an indoor cycling bike takes up much less space, and the Sole SB900 is one of the more compact options. Its 54”L x 21”W x 51”H dimensions make it easy to fit in a small apartment, home gym, or even a corner of a bedroom.

If your flooring is carpet or tile, I’d highly recommend using a firm and grippy PVC or rubber mat under the bike. While the SB900 is incredibly stable, a good mat helps prevent movement, protect your floors, and absorb vibration. Skip the cheap foam interlocking mats — they tend to compress too much and won’t provide the same level of stability. I personally use a 24-Inch x 46-Inch) made in the USA SuperMat, which works perfectly.

Even after months of regular use, I can tell the SB900 is built like a tank. The heavy-duty steel frame is coated with a scratch and corrosion-resistant finish, which is a must for humid environments or garages. While the previous model weighed 160 lbs, the new version is lighter at 123 lbs — but don’t let that fool you. It still feels rock-solid, and I expect it to last for years.

There are four adjustable leveling feet, which are great if your floor isn’t perfectly even. They help prevent rocking and also add a layer of floor protection. I tested it on both concrete and hardwood flooring, and once adjusted, the bike remained stable even during intense rides.

The maximum user weight is 300 lbs, which is standard for an indoor cycling bike in this price range. However, given the bike’s sturdy construction, I wouldn’t be surprised if it could handle a bit more. That said, Sole is likely playing it safe with their weight rating.

Sole SB900 Exercise Bike Monitor, Bluetooth, and App Connectivity

The biggest upgrade on the new Sole SB900 is the monitor and connectivity options. The older SB900 model had a very basic display — no Bluetooth, no power readings, and no resistance level tracking. If you were using it with apps like Peloton or Zwift, you had to guess your resistance levels because the bike didn’t display them. Thankfully, Sole addressed these issues in the new 2025 SB900 model, making it a far more interactive and app-friendly bike.

The new SB900 now tracks watts (power output), resistance levels (1-100), and has full Bluetooth connectivity. These upgrades make a huge difference when following structured workouts or virtual cycling classes. Now, when an instructor calls out a resistance level, you can see exactly where you are instead of relying on feel.

Additionally, the heart rate monitor compatibility has improved. The older model only worked with non-coded chest straps, while the new model supports Bluetooth heart rate monitors, allowing you to connect to more modern fitness accessories.

The power source has also changed. The older SB900 was battery-powered (AA batteries), while the new model is corded electric. This eliminates the need to replace batteries, but you’ll need to position the bike near an outlet.

One of the standout features of the new SB900 is its Bluetooth connectivity, which allows it to sync with the free Sole+ App. Unlike other brands that require a paid subscription, Sole gives you full access to its fitness app for free, saving you hundreds of dollars every year compared to bikes that lock features behind a paywall.

If you’re looking to connect to Peloton, Zwift, or other third-party cycling apps, you can do so by using the QZ app as a bridge. Since the SB900 sends RPM, resistance level, and watt data via Bluetooth, the QZ app converts it into a format compatible with Zwift and Peloton. You’ll still need to use your own tablet or phone, as the bike’s monitor isn’t built for full app integration.

Another major issue with the old SB900 was the lack of a tablet holder. If you wanted to use a tablet for entertainment or cycling apps, you had to buy an aftermarket mount. Fortunately, the new model includes an adjustable tablet holder, making it much easier to follow along with virtual cycling classes or watch Netflix while riding.

The bike also comes with dual bottle holders and dumbbell holders, which is great if you incorporate upper-body workouts into your rides.

Surprisingly, no. While the new SB900 has more advanced metrics, the monitor is still not backlit. This means that if you’re cycling in a dimly lit room, you may struggle to read the screen. This is a missed opportunity, especially since many competitors including Joroto X4S that costs half SB900 offer bright LED-backlit displays. However, since most people use a tablet or phone with the SB900, this isn’t a dealbreaker.

Sole SB900 Magnetic Resistance & Belt Drive System Explained

One of the biggest selling points of the Sole SB900 is its Eddy Current magnetic resistance, which delivers a smooth, whisper-quiet ride without the need for constant maintenance. Unlike friction-based spin bikes, which rely on brake pads that wear out over time, the SB900’s magnetic resistance ensures consistent performance and zero contact with the flywheel, making it maintenance-free and extremely durable.

On the older SB900 model that I originally bought, there was no way to see your resistance level on the monitor—you had to go by feel. It ranged from light tension to an absolute leg burner, but there were no indicators to track your exact setting. While this wasn’t a dealbreaker, it made it tough to follow structured workouts, especially for Peloton or Zwift classes, where instructors call out specific resistance levels.

Thankfully, Sole updated the new 2025 SB900 model with a resistance readout on the monitor, showing levels from 1 to 100. This is a huge upgrade, as it allows riders to precisely dial in their resistance and easily replicate their favorite workouts.

One thing to note is that the SB900 does not have motorized resistance – you have to manually adjust it using the resistance knob. This means that when riding in Zwift or Peloton classes, you’ll need to turn the knob yourself to match resistance cues. For those who prefer automated resistance changes, this might be a downside.

If you really want auto-resistance, there is a workaround. You can purchase a SmartSpin2K device (sold separately for around $150) that adds the necessary hardware to sync the SB900 with apps like Zwift and automatically adjust resistance. However, this is an additional cost, and not everyone will want to go through the extra step of installing it.

That said, manual resistance has its benefits—it tends to be more durable, requires less maintenance, and gives you full control over your ride without relying on external apps or Bluetooth connections.

Even without automatic resistance, the Sole SB900 offers a serious challenge. Some riders worry that magnetic resistance won’t be strong enough for high-intensity interval training or strength workouts, but I can confirm that’s not the case here.

The lower resistance levels are still stronger than some gym bikes, including Keiser models and it’s because of heavy flywheel. The top-end resistance is brutal, forcing even the strongest riders to push their limits. The transition between levels is incredibly smooth, making it easy to adjust mid-ride without sudden jumps in difficulty.

Another huge advantage of the Sole SB900 is its belt drive system. Unlike older spin bikes that use a chain drive, the SB900’s high-quality rubber belt ensures a silent and smooth ride.

I’ve used both chain-drive and belt-drive bikes, and the difference is night and day. Chain drives require regular maintenance, including lubrication and tension adjustments, and they tend to create noise over time. In contrast, the belt drive system in the SB900 is virtually silent, never needs oiling, and delivers a consistent, smooth pedal stroke.

Sole SB900 Flywheel, Pedals, Cranks & Q-Factor – What You Need to Know

One of the biggest changes in the new Sole SB900 is the flywheel weight. The older model had a 48-pound flywheel, while the new one has been reduced to 35 pounds. Some riders assume that heavier is always better, but that’s not necessarily true — especially with magnetic resistance. The newer, lighter flywheel is still perimeter-weighted, so it delivers smooth inertia and consistent resistance changes, but it makes the bike easier to move, reduces overall weight, and maintains efficiency.

If you prefer a really heavy flywheel, you might miss the extra weight of the older model. But personally, I used several spin bikes with 35-pound flywheels and found more than sufficient, even during intense sprints and climbs. It still provides a fluid pedal stroke without jerkiness, and resistance transitions remain buttery smooth.

The older SB900 came with basic cage pedals, which was a huge drawback for serious cyclists. I had to immediately replace mine because I use SPD cycling shoes for a more secure fit and better power transfer.

Thankfully, Sole fixed this issue in the new model by including dual-sided SPD-compatible pedals. This means you can clip in with SPD shoes for better pedal strokes and efficiency, or ride with regular sneakers using the toe cages. This is a great upgrade, saving you the extra cost of buying new pedals unless you prefer Look Delta or Speedplay cleats, in which case, you’d still need to swap them out.

Another thing I noticed — the only noise I ever heard from the bike came from the pedals at high resistance levels. A quick lubrication of the pedal bearings and tightening the crank nuts solved that completely. Since then, it’s been silent.

One of my biggest concerns when buying a spin bike is whether it will flex or wobble under pressure — especially when standing on the pedals during sprints. The SB900’s frame is rock-solid, and I’ve never felt even the slightest flex, no matter how much resistance I crank up. The crank arms are strong, and the pedal threads are standard 9/16″, so swapping pedals is easy if you ever need to.

The SB900 has a 202mm Q-factor. If you’re unfamiliar with the term, Q-factor is the distance between the pedals. A narrower Q-factor is more efficient for road cyclists, while a wider Q-factor can feel more stable for casual riders.

Personally, I found the 202mm Q-factor comfortable, but if you’re an experienced road cyclist used to a narrow stance, you might notice a slight difference. It’s not a dealbreaker, but if you’re sensitive to pedal alignment, it’s something to consider.

I also appreciate the plastic sweat cover on top of the flywheel but one thing I noticed is the exposed sharp flywheel which can be a safety issue if you have to place the bike in the living room with toddlers or kids running around in the house.

As for maintenance, it’s basically non-existent. I wipe down the frame with a damp cloth after every workout, and that’s about it. The manual suggests wiping the flywheel with WD-40 once a week, but honestly, I don’t even do that because the sweat guards do a great job protecting it.

Sole SB900 Bike Seat & Handlebars – Adjustability, Comfort & Fit

One of the biggest reasons I chose the Sole SB900 is its fully adjustable handlebars and seat, allowing for a customized fit no matter your height or riding style. Both the old and new models feature four-way adjustability (up, down, forward, and back), making it easy to dial in a comfortable and efficient riding position.

The inseam range for the SB900 is 28” to 40”, meaning it can comfortably fit riders from about 5’2” to 6’4”. I’m 5’5”, and I had no issues adjusting it to fit my body. The adjustment levers are easy to use, and the updated adjustment system on the new SB900 and seems more durable than the previous model.

Unlike some bikes where the handlebars only move up and down, the SB900 handlebars adjust fore and aft, which is crucial for proper bike fit. If you like a more upright riding position, you can easily set the handlebars higher. If you prefer a more aggressive, performance-style fit, you can move them lower and closer to mimic a real road bike.

The old SB900 model had a clunky dumbbell and bottle holder design, placing everything in front of the handlebars, which wasn’t the most ergonomic or easy to reach. Thankfully, Sole redesigned this completely on the new SB900, making it more accessible and comfortable. Now, the bottle holders are built into the handlebars, so you don’t have to awkwardly reach forward mid-ride.

The SB900’s stock seat is decent, but comfort will vary depending on your body type and riding experience. It features a center cutout for better breathability and airflow, which I found helpful on longer rides. If you’re used to cycling saddles, you’ll probably find it fine, especially when wearing padded cycling shorts.

However, if you have wider hips or prefer more cushioning, you may want to swap it out for something like the Velmia Trekking saddle or another wider, more padded spin bike seat. The good news is that it uses a standard seat post, so finding a replacement is easy.

A simple tilt adjustment also helped me find a better seating position—slightly angling the seat backward made a big difference in comfort. If you feel discomfort, try adjusting the seat angle first before rushing to replace it.

The Sole SB900 excels in adjustability, making it a great option for riders of all heights. The redesigned handlebar and bottle holder placement makes it much more user-friendly, and while the stock seat is fine for most, swapping it out is easy if needed.

Would I recommend it based on comfort and adjustability? Absolutely. Just make sure to spend time adjusting the bike properly, and you’ll have a comfortable ride that fits your body.