Upright exercise bikes have been around for quite a while and continue to be go-to cardio tools for the average Joe. But why choose an upright?

For starters, an upright exercise bike offers a more comfortable riding position than a spin bike, while still providing a challenging workout. The saddle is much larger and feels more comfortable, but unlike the recumbent bike, you won’t feel like you’re slacking off.

And unless you’re looking for aggressive HIIT sessions, an air bike or assault bike might be overkill for your needs. Upright bikes are the perfect solution for anyone looking to get in a light to moderate workout from the comfort of their own home.

In this guide, we got the scoop on the 11 best upright exercise bikes on the market! We’ve scoured the market to bring you a varied list of bikes that cater to different users. From sleek and commercial-grade to simple and affordable, we’ve got you covered.

Image	Brand	Resistance levels	Workout programs	Flywheel Weight	Max User Weight	Check Prices
	JTX Cyclo-Go X	16	18	11 kg	120 kg	View Amazon UK Price
	ProForm Pro C10U	25	iFIT	8 kg	125 kg	View ProForm UK Price
	Domyos EB 520	15	7	6 kg	130 kg	View Decathlon UK Price
	Marcy Onyx B80	16	23	5 kg	120 kg	View Amazon UK Price
	DKN EMB-600	32	16	16 kg	180 kg	View Amazon UK Price
	ATIVAFIT Foldable Bike	8	n/a	n/a	125 kg	View Amazon UK Price
	Exerpeutic Gold 575 XLS	16	21	n/a	181 kg	View Amazon UK Price
	NordicTrack Commercial VU 29	24	iFIT	n/a	147 kg	View NordicTrack UK Price
	Reebok FR30	32	28	9 kg	120 kg	View Amazon UK Price
	JLL® JF150	8	n/a	5 kg	100 kg	View Amazon UK Price
	WINNOW Bike	8	n/a	n/a	n/a	View Amazon UK Price

What Is the Best Upright Exercise Bike for Home?

Let’s learn about their features and get a better picture of what each model does for you.

Best Indoor Upright Exercise Bike

The JTX Fitness Cyclo-Go X boasts electromagnetic resistance and an 11-kilogram flywheel. This type of resistance ensures smooth operation, a challenging workout, and a distinct lack of noise even during the most strenuous rides.

The base is wide and sturdy enough that it doesn’t sway, even when riding at maximum speed. Best of all, the seat is easily adjustable both vertically and horizontally. While the bike is suitable for people of all heights, it works best for those weighing no more than 120 kilogrammes.

With its 16 resistance levels and 18 workout programmes, you can get a cardiovascular workout that meets your fitness goals. When you connect to Kinomap, the resistance of the bike will adjust to match the virtual terrain.

Distance, speed, RPM, calories, watts, and pulse rate can all be tracked in real-time. To get the most out of your cardio workouts, use a Polar device to monitor your heart rate.

Learn more by reading our JTX Fitness Cyclo GO X Review

Visit JTX Fitness Official Store

Best Upright Exercise Bike for Seniors

The ProForm Pro C10U would make a fantastic home exercise machine for seniors. Designed with maximum user comfort in mind, it comes with an extra-wide cushioned seat, a CoolAire™ fan, and an accessible water bottle holder.

The Proform Pro C10U is made of commercial-grade steel and has a weight capacity of 147 kilogrammes. Thanks to its compact dimensions and oversized levelling feet, the bike fits easily inside any room and stays stable on uneven surfaces.

The 25 levels of SMR™ (Silent Magnetic Resistance) and 8-kilogramme inertia-enhanced flywheel make the ProForm Pro C10U suitable for various degrees of cardio training, running from mild to moderate. Bluetooth-ready, you can listen to your favourite jams, and lose yourself on the ride.

What’s more, the unit sports a 10-inch Smart HD Touchscreen pre-loaded with 30-day access to the iFit app. The app offers remote training sessions, automated data logging, and a virtual library of workouts and routines.

Visit ProForm UK Official Store

Best Upright Exercise Bike for Short Person

The Marcy Onyx B80 scooped the Women’s Running’s Best Value Weight Training Equipment award in 2020, and it’s still one of the best-selling upright exercise bikes on the market to date!

The steel alloy bike weighs 30 kilogrammes, inclusive of its 5-kilogram flywheel. While the flywheel is lighter than most bikes, you can still get a great workout with its 16 automatic magnetic resistance levels.

You can choose among 23 pre-programmed routines; 13 of them range from fat burn to intervals to fartlek. There are also 5 heart rate settings that allow you to tailor your workout and meet specific targets.

With 4 customizable options, this thoughtful feature allows everyone in your household to use it and track their individual progress. Prioritising the rider’s comfort is also a strong selling point of the Marcy Onyx B80. Whether you’re 4’10 or 5’6, you can find a comfortable position.

View Latest Amazon Prices

Best Upright Exercise Bike for Tall Person

If you are 6 ‘5 feet tall (195.58cm) and having trouble finding the best exercise, get the Domyos EB 520 so you don’t feel like you’re sitting on a child’s bike! This model might be slim and compact, but it’s one solid piece of equipment made of steel with a 130-kilogramme capacity.

The handlebars and seat have multiple height adjustments, allowing the bike to accommodate tall riders. Short people may also find it easy to get on the bike, thanks to its straight, low frame.

The sleek bike has a motorised, self-powered drivetrain system and a 6-kilogramme flywheel. These features contribute to quiet, smooth pedalling. Want to bike on the patio on a sunny day? Exercise in front of the TV? No problem!

Equipped with a 1300 mAh NiMH battery, you can bike for up to 5 hours per week. All it takes is a 20-minute charge every 4 months. Assembly will take less than an hour, and casters make transportation simple.

The crisp console displays 6 key metrics and records your performance, so you can monitor your progress. You can choose among 15 resistance levels and 7 built-in programmes. Better yet, download the Domyos E-connected app or train with Kinomap to make your workouts more stimulating and enjoyable.

View Latest Decathlon UK Prices

Best Upright Exercise Bike for Heavy Person

High-weight capacity exercise bikes are rare to find, but the DKN EMB-600 has come to the rescue with its 180-kilogramme capacity. DKN has an amazing track record of producing high-quality equipment, so rest assured, the EMB-600 is not your run-of-the-mill exercise bike.

At 73 kilogrammes, this bike is a serious piece of equipment! The bearings are of excellent quality, and when combined with the 16-kilogramme flywheel, the result is a super-smooth, super-quiet ride that just feels incredible.

The quick-release mechanisms make it straightforward to find the best possible riding position. The gel-padded saddle is wide and comfortable enough, even for large users. The foot pedals are cushioned, too.

The DKN EMB-600 has 32 levels of computer-controlled magnetic resistance and 16 programmes. The console design, which shows training statistics, has been simplified to just 7 buttons. The screen characters are huge and clear. There is also a tablet holder ledge in the middle, so you can watch shows or listen to music while working out.

In addition to the pre-programmed routines, companion apps, such as Vescape and Kinomap, are available for download. The handles come with pulse sensors, but you can also measure your heart rate using a chest belt or cardio connect tracker since the unit is Bluetooth-enabled.

Visit DKN UK Official Store

Best Foldable Upright Exercise Bike

If you’re on the lookout for an upright exercise bike with a neat and foldable design, consider the Exerpeutic Gold 575 XLS. This model folds down to half its size. It weighs a total of only 23.4 kilogrammes, but it has wheels for easy transportation.

The alloy steel frame of the Exerpeutic Gold 575 XLS can support up to 180 kilogrammes. A large rod serves as a safety pin, which you insert to keep it folded and prevent it from closing when in use.

Because of its large weight capacity, it can also support taller people. The seat height adjustments on this bike are suitable for people up to 6’5 tall. The saddle and pedals are also wide enough to accommodate larger riders.

This exercise bike uses magnetic resistance with 16 tension levels, as well as 21 preset programmes and 3 goal workout settings. It also has Bluetooth connectivity and built-in heart pulse sensors. All the important metrics are seen on its LCD screen.

For more guide, read our Exerpeutic Gold 575 XLS Review

View Latest Amazon Prices

Best Upright Exercise Bike with Back Support

If you want an upright exercise bike that provides back support like recumbents, check out the AtivaFit R8. In addition, this model comes with resistance elastic bands, which allow you to work on your glamour muscles while exercising.

The AtivaFit R8 is also an upright exercise bike with a minimalist design. Once put together, you simply unfold your bike and move it to storage after use. The bike weighs 19 kilogrammes, but it has wheels to help you drag it to the next room with ease.

Despite its slim appearance, the bike’s steel frame can support up to 125 kilogrammes. Similarly, this bike is appropriate for those standing 5’0 to 5’11 (152cm to 180cm).

The magnetic flywheel on this bike ensures an inconspicuous workout. You can also choose from 1 to 8 degrees of resistance and the intensity of your workout on the bikes. The bikes use cutting-edge technology to keep you motivated by presenting real-time progress statistics.

Read more in our ATIVAFIT R8 Foldable Bike Review

View Latest Amazon Prices

Best Commercial Upright Exercise Bike

NordicTrack indoor bike frames are renowned for their excellent build quality, and the Commercial VU 29 is no exception to this rule. The 52-kilogramme bike has a weight capacity of 147 kilogrammes.

The VU 29 comes with a 14-inch HD Smart Touchscreen along with an 8.5-kilogramme inertia-enhanced flywheel with 24 levels of Silent Magnetic Resistance.

Like all NordicTrack cardio equipment, this model works best with an iFit subscription. The app grants you access to interactive features such as trainer-led workouts, automatic trainer control, scenic rides, enhanced metrics tracking, and a Google Maps integration that allows you to cycle virtually anywhere in the world.

Aside from that, the VU 29 has superb ergonomics: oversized pedals with adjustable straps, a large cushioned seat, horizontal and vertical seat adjustments, and an AutoBreeze™ workout fan. This smart upright bike is likewise Bluetooth-compatible and comes with digitally amplified speakers.

Visit NordicTrack UK Official Store

Best Upright Exercise Bike Under £500

The Reebok FR30 is an excellent value for money for anyone looking for a quality bike under £500.

A 9-kilogramme flywheel compliments the 32 computer-controlled magnetic resistance levels. Besides that, there are 28 different programmes (3 manual target modes, 18 pre-set, 3 HRC, 4 user-defined, as well as a recovery mode and a body fat test.

The gel-cushioned seat with vertical and horizontal adjustments, self-levelling pedals with straps, and adjustable handles make it suitable for almost everyone.

You can view vital information on the touchscreen LED display, which is Bluetooth-enabled and compatible with Zwift and Kinomap.

Read more on our guide: Reebok FR30 Exercise Bike Review

View Latest Amazon Prices

Best Affordable Upright Exercise Bike

A 5-kilogramme flywheel with 8 levels of magnetic resistance has been fitted to the JLL® JF150, offering its user a smooth ride and a decent challenge.

The frame is made of alloy steel coated with a hard-wearing, anti-rust coating. It is certainly a robust machine with a strong user weight allowance of 100 kilogrammes.

And while the bike has plenty of adjustments on the seat, you may want to improvise the saddle to make it comfortable for prolonged sessions.

This bike has a few hiccups and lacks fancy features, but I’m not going to knock this too hard, given its price. The JLL® JF150 is a great beginner bike and at a reasonable price, you really cannot complain.

View Latest Amazon Prices

Best Rated Upright Exercise Bike

Another budget-friendly option worth a closer look is the WINNOW exercise bike. Given its price, fancy bells and whistles had to be stripped away, but you’ll still end up with a solid indoor exercise bike to give you heart-pumping cardio.

It employs a magnetic resistance flywheel with 8 resistance levels, which should be enough for the majority of users. The LCD display is large and bright, delivering real-time metrics on your workout. A tablet holder allows you to watch TV or listen to music while cycling.

The seat height of the WINNOW Exercise Bike is adjustable, but it’s still not recommended for 2 people to use it. Also, there is an upper limit to the user’s height; if you’re 6’0 or taller, we recommend looking for a bike that is a little bit bigger.

View Latest Amazon Prices

Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Home Upright Exercise Bikes

What makes a good upright exercise bike? Read on!

Build Quality

When shopping for an upright exercise bike, the build quality is the first thing to take into account. You want a machine that can sustain your workouts for an extended period. Look into what materials were used to create the bike.

An upright bike with a steel frame is the best option because it is sturdy and resistant to corrosion, giving you the required stability and support during your exercises. A steel frame is also less prone to wear and tear over time, ensuring that your investment lasts and looks good for years.

Resistance Types and Levels

All upright exercise bikes employ magnetic resistance.

The majority operates by connecting a magnet to a servo motor, which then moves the magnet closer or further away from the flywheel to generate and adjust resistance. However, there are a few drawbacks to that system. The moving parts are bound to wear out and fail. Second, switching between the resistance levels is never quick, and it may also be noisy.

On the other hand, some manufacturers go a step further and use an electromagnetic braking system instead of the standard servo magnetic braking system. Installing an electromagnetic braking system eliminates the servo motor’s possible risk of failure, making the bike considerably more reliable. Adding to that, the transition from least to highest resistance and back down again is fast.

Exercise bikes with electromagnetic resistance offer a greater range of exercise programmes, which not only help you train harder but also make your workouts more interesting. The only downside is that you need to fit your equipment near a standard wall outlet.

Weight Capacity

Another important attribute is the maximum user weight capacity. Understand that the load limit also reflects the quality of the bike. Ideally, you should look for an exercise bike with a steel framework.

Both rated for 180 kilogrammes, the DKN EMB-600 and Exerpeutic Gold 575 XLS upright exercise bikes are the most robust on our list. But if you weigh more, an upright bike might not be the ideal option for you.

Comfort Level

Upright exercise bikes usually don’t have a backrest, but having a large seat is a distinctive feature of this type of equipment. However, the comfort level will depend.

More expensive models often incorporate polymer gel into their seat pads or covers to provide extra cushion and to ease pressure points since it moulds to your shape and form.

More affordable models are more likely to have a generic seat. If you’re on a tight budget and choose a cheaper bike, at least make sure that it has a standard connection mechanism, so you can swap it out with a more comfortable one.

Another distinct feature of an upright exercise bike is the noticeably tall, non-adjustable handlebars that encourage the upright position. Regarding the design of the handlebar, it’s best to look for one that has a multi-grip design. Being able to hold the handlebars in various positions broadens the exercise spectrum.

Now, most mid- and high-end upright bikes include pulse sensors built into the handlebars. This feature is great to have, especially if you need to stay within a specific heart rate interval.

Related guide: Upright Bike Workout Tips

Display Console

Almost every upright bike comes with at least a simple battery-powered console. The computer monitors time, speed, calories burned, and distance, among other important metrics.

The most advanced bikes, on the other hand, have consoles with a plethora of features. Along with the ones mentioned above, they also provide a set of programs, user-defined routines, goal-setting functions, and other elements to keep you motivated.

Not having these bells and whistles isn’t a deal breaker, but they do make your exercises more fun and productive.

Warranty

The warranty is a vital factor to consider, especially when making a big purchase. We are sticklers when it comes to warranties since they are another measure of overall quality.

Poor-quality bikes don’t come with generous warranties since their manufacturers know they aren’t built to last.

Top-grade bikes come with at least a couple of years of frame warranty and at least one year for the electronics and other components.

Conclusion

Whether you’re an experienced rider looking for an alternative to outdoor biking or someone just starting out on a fitness journey, an upright exercise bike is a fantastic way to get your heart rate up and improve your overall health.

With the 11 best upright exercise bikes we’ve listed, you’re sure to find a model that matches your needs. So, which model has caught your eye? Be sure to have your non-negotiables, fitness level, and budget figured out.

FAQs

What are the advantages of using an upright bike over other cardio equipment?

Upright bikes are a tried-and-true solution to many fitness-related woes, such as a limited budget, a lack of space for your equipment, and the risk of exacerbating joint problems or an existing injury. Upright bikes are simple to use, safe, and effective, and there are plenty of cost-efficient options.

Is an upright exercise bike the same as a spin bike?

No! While both are stationary cycles, a spin bike provides a more dynamic, powerful workout. Spin bikes use heavy flywheels that require you to exert more force.

A spin bike also puts you in an aerodynamic position as you pedal. You must lean forward and peddle quickly, and this engages your core muscles and increases your heart rate quickly.

Are upright exercise bikes good for seniors?

Yes! You don’t need to be incredibly strong and flexible to ride an upright exercise bike. Older people can sit down on it and pedal away with little effort. However, uprights don’t usually arrive with upper body and lower back support that some folks may need.

Are upright exercise bikes suitable for individuals with lower back pain or joint issues?

If you’re looking to get back into shape after an injury or if you have a back problem like stenosis or degenerative disease, a recumbent bike is a better option. Recumbent bikes have larger, ergonomic seats that provide superb back support, allowing you to enjoy a low-impact cardio session without running the risk of aggravating back and joint problems.

Can you stand up on an upright exercise bike?

Yes, but it may take some time to get used to this. When standing, your muscles work harder as you balance yourself and this can lead to a more challenging, fat-burning workout. But if you are overweight or if you aren’t flexible, it may be tough to do so.