Best Mini Exercise Bikes (Ultimate Guide)
Mini exercise bikes or pedal exercisers, have been around for quite some time now. Many people still debate about the actual effectiveness of this piece of home gym equipment. In this article we will be bringing you all the information you need to know about pedal exercisers as well as highlighting the best mini exercise bike UK customers can purchase.
Mini Exercise Bike Do They Work ?
When compared to normal exercise bikes it is true that mini exercise bikes they are not as effective as a piece of exercise equipment, especially if you are looking for a demanding cardio workout. However that doesn’t mean they have no benefit as a piece of home exercise equipment.
Mini exercise bikes are best suited to those looking to burn calories and lose weight as well as been extremely good for keeping the elderly active. In addition pedal exercisers are perfect for those recovering from certain ailments such as knee surgery as they offer a low intensity workout that isn’t too demanding on the joints.
<< Best Exercise Bikes Buyer’s Guide >>
Different Type Of Mini Exercise Bikes
There are three different type of mini exercise bikes these are friction, magnetic and motorised. Each different type has its own use, for example motorised mini bikes are best suited for the elderly or those recovering from an operation.
Below is more information on the three different types of pedal exercisers.
Friction
Friction based pedal exercisers work in a similar way to the brakes on a normal bicycle. To apply the resistance a dial is turned and an internal clamping system applies the friction needed to cause the resistance. This type of pedal exerciser does tend to suffer from wear and tear due to the internal workings having to apply friction. In addition this type of mini cycle is also noisier than one that uses magnetic resistance. Due to the simple design they are not the sturdiest of mini exercise bikes but they are the most affordable.
Magnetic
Mini bikes that use a friction based resistance system are more complex in their design and are constructed to a better standard. Similar to upright exercise bikes when the user turns the pedals a flywheel is in turn rotated. The flywheel is surrounded by magnets which can be set to different resistance levels to give a higher intensity workout. The benefits of magnetic resistance system is that none of the inner components come in to contact with each other. This leads to a lot less wear and tear especially when compared to the friction based pedal exerciser. These type of models last a lot longer, run smoother are a lot quieter and are far more stable due to them been considerably heavier.
Motorised
This type of mini cycle is the most popular with the elderly those with mobility issues and those recovering from surgery. The motorised components mean that instead of offering resistance the pedals in fact turn by themselves and aid the user. This type of exercise bike is perfect for low intensity exercise and has been proven to help improve movement in those that suffer with restricted movement. A little heavier than magnetic resistance based mini bikes but this adds to the stability.
Benefits Of Mini Exercise Bikes/Pedal Exerciser
Mini exercise bikes have many beneficial attributes. Below is a list of some of the most common benefits associated with owning one.
- They take up very little room
- Perfect for the elderly or those with mobility issues
- Great lower body-workout
- Cheapest of all exercise bikes
- Used by many for rehabilitation after knee surgery
- Improves circulation
- Good light cardio workout
Best Mini Exercise Bike Top 3
3) 66fit Folding Arm and Leg Pedal Exerciser
Features
The resistance from the pedals can be adjusted to increase or decrease the effort required
Easy to assemble and folds for storage, Helps improve circulation
Non-slip rubber floor grips
Pedals come complete with toe-straps
Our View
The 66fit pedal exerciser has a friction resistance and is designed with the same look as the earliest mini exercise bikes.
Due to this been a simple design expect it to be among the cheapest mini exercise bikes available. However this does not mean that it isn’t made to a high standard. Made from tubular steel and with a chrome finish this is a very functional pedal exerciser.
Due to it been able to be used in a sitting down position for a leg workout and on a table to exercise the arms this pedal exerciser offers a varied workout for something that takes up so little space.
To adjust the resistance simply turn a dial to lower or increase the resistance level. If you are looking to get a good cardio workout from a pedal exerciser this is not the one for you. The resistance offered by a magnetic mini bike is higher and better suited to cardio.
66fit Folding Arm and Leg Pedal Exerciser - Home Physiotherapy Fitness Mini Bike
- Ideal for use around the home or in the office.
- The resistance from the pedals can be adjusted to increase or decrease the effort required
- Easy to assemble and folds for storage, Helps improve circulation
Click Here For Latest 66fit Pedal Exerciser Model
2) Ultrasport Mini Bike
Features
Compact home trainer – hand and foot pedals with an adjustable pedal strap
On-board computer with large LCD display: Displays scan, time, distance, rotations per exercise, total rotations and calorie consumption
Max user weight: 100 kg,
Manual resistance settings
Our View
This pedal exercise bike offers great value for money and is one of the bestsellers on Amazon. With thousands of sales and over 400 positive reviews it is considered by many to be the best mini exercise bike UK customers can buy,
The monitor shows six functions these are time, distance, calories, scan, rotations per workout and total rotations.
The resistance is again manual, with a dial to alter the resistance offered.
All in all a good and very affordable mini exercise bike but still not the best on the market.
Ultrasport Mini Bike, Arm and Leg Trainer, Minibike, MB 50
- Compact home trainer – hand and foot pedals with an adjustable pedal strap
- The small exercise bike is perfect for strengthening your arm and leg muscles
- On-board computer with large LCD display: Displays scan, time, distance, rotations per exercise, total rotations and calorie consumption
Free shipping
1) MagneTrainer ER
Features
Compact, lightweight professional grade arm and leg exerciser; 37cm/15 inch wide base and sturdy steel frame
Patented magnetic resistance; 60% more resistance range than other magnetic pedal exercisers
Ideal for home use while watching TV, on the phone or working.
Adjustable Velcro straps on pedals to accommodate all foot sizes; pedals work with both feet and hands
Our View
Is this the best mini exercise bike UK customers can buy?
The simple answer is yes and here is why.
First of all this mini exercise bike uses a patented magnetic system known as the neo-system. Due to the patented design there is an increase of 60% in terms of resistance offered making this a mini exercise bike that gives a good cardio workout.
With the option to use this for both arm and leg workouts it shouldn’t be too long before the toning benefits of this exercise machine start to take effect.
With a sturdy design and a wide-set base the stability of this mini bike is second to none. The magnetic resistance ensures a smooth and quiet workout making this ideal for home use.
The original MagneTrainer ER a light, portable mini exercise bike - Top of the Range and Top of its Class....
- Compatible with iXStreams, iXPlore and iXVGamer Interactive VR System -Compact, lightweight professional grade arm and leg exerciser; 37cm/15 inch wide base and sturdy steel frame
- Patented magnetic resistance; More than twice the resistance range of the other magnetic pedal exercisers
Free shipping
Top 3 Motorised Mini Exercise Bikes
3) Confidence Fitness Motorized Electric Mini Exercise Bike
Features
Can be used to work both legs and arms
Motorized pedal action with 12 speed settings
Suitable for manual use
Initial run time: 5 minutes
5 built-in Automatic Programmes
Our View
With 12 speed setting and 5 programs this is probably the best motorised mini bike for value for money. For half the price of our number one model you get pretty much all the same features. However there is no denying tat our number one mini exercise bike is constructed to a higher standard.
One thing worth mentioning about this mini exercise bike is that you can switch from aided pedaling to manual. Consequently this allows the user to progress to a more testing workout if so desired.
With four and a half stars this mini cycle receives nothing but positive feedback and is our best rated mini exercise bike due to its affordable price and the fact it has the same features as more expensive models.
Confidence Fitness Motorized Electric Mini Exercise Bike / Pedal Exerciser
- Can be used to work both legs and arms
- Motorised pedal action with 12 speed settings
- Suitable for manual use
- Initial run time: 5 minutes
- 6 built-in Automatic Programmes
2) Aidapt Deluxe Motorised Pedal Exerciser
Features
Programmable exercise time
12 speed settings
Complete with remote control to change settings including speed
Stylish, compact design for Easy Storage
Our View
The Aidapt motorised mini bike is the bestselling motorised exercise bike on Amazon. Receiving an overall rating of four stars with over 200 positive reviews.
Why do so many people like it ?
This product is eligible for UK VAT relief meaning that if someone has a disability or sickness they are entitled to not pay any VAT. With this been a product aimed at those with a disability or sickness, it’s easy to see that this is one of the main reasons it has so many sales.
Consequently another reason for this been the bestselling motorised mini bike is that it is very good at doing what it was built for. With 12 speed settings a programmable exercise time and even a remote control this is well suited to those looking for one of the best models available.
Aidapt Deluxe Motorised Pedal Exerciser (Eligible for VAT relief in the UK)
- POWER ASSISTED EXERCISE FROM THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN CHAIR: Simply position the unit in front of a comfortable chair, plug in and you are good to go
- LOW NOISE MOTORISED POWER ASSISTANCE FOR EASY CYCLING: Gentle but quite speed controlled motor aids the user to turn the pedals Great aid for private rehabilitation exercising to aid with improving circulation and mobility
1) Reviber Mini Motorised Exercise Bike
Features
5 year parts & labour guarantee on the motor and 2 years on all other parts.
Fully Assembled, just plug it in!
Large, smooth pedals with extra long straps
Includes non-slip mat
12 Speed Settings
Our View
If it’s the best motorised exercise bike that is required for your exercise needs then this is probably it.
The Reviber mini motorised exercise bike is perfect for low impact exercise and rehabilitation purposes. Due to the low stress placed on the joints it is very beneficial for those who suffer with mobility issues.
There are 12 speed settings and 5 programs for a varied workout. After the sequence of speed settings is completed the Reviber then goes into reverse mode. This enables the pedals to go backwards and contributes to a wider variety of muscles been used.
One big positive to this mini exercise bike is that it comes fully assembled and the footplates/pedals are considerably larger than most other models and the straps are notably longer.
Although this is one of the most expensive motorised exercise bikes it is built to a high standard and comes with a 5 year warranty.
Reviber Mini Motorised Exercise Bike - fully assembled with 2 year guarantee
- Motorised for low impact exercise and rehabilitation
- Handheld controller with extra long 1.8 metre cable (standard is 1.2m)
- Two year parts & labour guarantee.
- Console feedback including: Speed, time, distance, scan, calories, auto programme selection.
What To Look For When Buying
When buying a mini cycle there are a few things to bear in mind if you are to get the right one for your needs.
Resistance Type
As mentioned earlier there are three type of mini exercise bike and each has its own resistance type. Deciding on the resistance type first is a good start as this pretty much sums up what the rest of the mini bike is used for exercise wise.
Monitor Functions
Like most exercise machines mini exercise bikes have an on board monitor to track certain stats. Most mini bikes have around 5 or 6 functions on the monitor are usually a combination of the following, time, speed, distance, calories burned, rotations, total rotations and scan.
When buying try to purchase a model with as many functions as possible. This allows the user to track more workout statistics and consequently makes it easier to see that fitness goals have been achieved.
Warranty
As with any purchase it is wise to buy one with a good warranty. The good news is that many of the models featured offer a good warranty with some even been up to five years long and inclusive of parts and labour.
Final Words On The Best Mini Exercise Bike
The best mini exercise bike is one that is best suited for your needs. Getting this important factor correct will help considerably when deciding upon which one to buy. In this article we have brought you all the top rated mini exercise bikes and tried to give as much information as possible to aid in any purchasing decision.
FAQs
Is a mini exercise bike good for weight loss?
Mini exercise bikes can be an effective tool when it comes to losing weight. However, the effectiveness depends on how much you use the bike, the intensity of your workouts, and what type of diet plan you are following. For example, if you are cycling for 30 minutes a day and eating a healthy diet, you may see some results over time.
Is a pedal exerciser better than walking?
Pedal exercisers provide an efficient way to get in a cardiovascular workout without having to go outside. With adjustable resistance, they can be more challenging than walking and can help tone your muscles while boosting your heart rate. However, nothing beats getting out and getting active in the great outdoors!
Who should use a pedal exerciser?
Pedal exercisers are a great piece of exercise equipment for people of all ages because they are easy to use, require no setup or storage space, and may be adjusted for different levels of difficulty. They can be especially helpful for seniors, those with limited mobility, and those recuperating from injury or illness.
What muscles do under desk bikes work?
Mini exercise bikes work all of the major muscle groups in the lower body, including the hips, thighs, hamstrings, and calves. This can help tone and strengthen these muscles, as well as improve overall cardiovascular health and endurance.
Can you stand on a mini exercise bike?
Standing on a mini exercise bike is not recommended, as it could cause the bike to become unstable and may cause injury. Instead, it is safer to use the bike while sitting down with proper posture and back support.
How Long Should You Use a Mini Exercise Bike?
The amount of time you should use a mini exercise bike depends on your individual fitness goals and the type of workout you’re doing. If you’re just starting out, aim for five to ten minutes of steady riding per day. As you become more advanced, 15-20 minutes or longer may be necessary for maximum benefits.
Does pedalling while sitting do anything?
Yes, pedalling while sitting can be a great way to get your daily dose of exercise. It provides you with low-impact cardio and strengthens your legs and lower body muscles. Additionally, if you are short on time, you can pedal while sitting at your office desk or watching TV!
Are mini exercise bikes good for the knees?
Yes, mini exercise bikes or pedal exercisers can be good for knees, especially for those who suffer from joint pain. These bikes can provide low-impact exercise that is gentle on the joints while still helping to boost circulation and strengthen muscles. However, it is always best to consult with a doctor or physical therapist before starting any new exercise program if you have concerns about your knee health.
References and further readings:
- Are mini exercise bikes worth it?
- British Journal of Sports Medicine, February 2011 – Feasibility of a portable pedal exercise machine for reducing sedentary time in the workplace
- J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 1999 Apr – The effects of high-intensity and low-intensity cycle ergometry in older adults with knee osteoarthritis
