A bike's seating structure and features drive the cost. Recumbent bikes, which according to Consumer Search[1] are better for the back and knees, can cost around 10 percent more than traditional upright bikes.
Typical costs:
ProForm offers its GR 80 recumbent[2] with 4 workout programs for $250. For $500, The Exercise Bike Superstore sells the upright Epic 300U with double the workout programs and 10 levels of resistance.
For $600, Schwinn sells the 213 Recumbent[3] with 13 resistance levels, 11 workout programs and wider pedals. The 231 Recumbent[4] is just $50 more and has 20 course settings and an ergonomic, padded riding seat.
Among more expensive bikes, Fitnex offers its R50s Recumbent for $1,100, with 16 resistance settings and console monitors for calorie, heart rate and speed. The Exercise Bike Superstore sells the Stex 8020 R Recumbent with 25 resistance settings and 13 programmed rides for $2,450.
If you want to watch TV or listen to Internet-driven radio during your workout, Expresso Fitness sells a high-tech recumbent model for $5,000 that offers TV programs and nine interactive rides displayed on a 17-inch LCD screen. Expresso's website lists dealers that sell its bikes.
All bikes should have adjustable resistance, and most offer console settings for the speed, distance and duration. Advanced models include programmed rides that simulate outdoor conditions, calorie counters and heart rate monitors.
Bikes often require self-assembly and have weight restrictions between up to 350 pounds. Most bikes come with a minimum one-year warranty on the frame and moveable parts.
Additional costs:
Cycling shoes, which typically cost $60 to $80, can enhance a workout by more firmly gripping your feet to the pedals. But make sure the shoe type fits the pedals on your bike. Most shoes come with a list of pedal types they will fit.
Shimano makes mesh-front styles[5] that allow for more foot flexibility than traditional tennis shoes. Brands Cycle and Fitness sells Shimano's SH-FN-120 for $75.
Discounts:
NordicTrack[6] and ProForm[7] sometimes slash prices up to 30 percent and offer free shipping for online orders.
Shopping for an exercise bike:
Sears[8] sells a wide variety of recumbent and upright bikes, including ProForm, Schwinn and NordicTrack models.
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Wow what a bike. I purchased the X series Velocity bike by Fitnex for my rides when I can't go to the gym for my spin classes. I love it! The bikes at my gym aren't half as good as this one and I told them so. I love the spring suspension ride especially after doing hills for 15 minutes in my training. A great buy and I'm proud of myself.
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