Best Spin Bike Reviews 2019

Whether you're looking to bulk up, slim down or simply enjoy a bike ride from the comfort of your own home, there is an indoor exercise bike for you. Your choice between upright bike, spin cycle and recumbent bike depends mainly on your preferred biking style and intensity. For this review, we are looking at 5 of the top spinning style bikes, from some of the best spin bike brands in the market. We have separate reviews for upright and recumbent style if that's what you are looking for - or if you want to compare to make your decision.

Overview

PROS

CONS

SPECS

Max Weight

Flywheel

Materials

Design Pluses

Extras

Our Top Choice

Keiser M3+ Indoor Spin Bike

Top of the line spin cycle for serious cyclists and workout enthusiasts.

Quiet operation. 24 precise resistance levels. Virtually no maintenance required. Bluetooth Computer. Adjustable seat, handlebars and pedals.

No preset workout programs. Expensive Model.

Up to 300 pounds

8 pound

Stainless steel

Durable. Nearly maintenance free.

Whisper quiet in operation

Best Value

Sunny Health & Fitness Pro Indoor Spin Bike

The Sunny Health & Fitness Pro Indoor Cycling Bike delivers all the essentials a beginner spin cyclist needs.

Adjustable seat and handlebars. Heavy 40-pound flywheel. Magnetic resistance. Adjustable resistance. Transport wheels.

No computer display. No heart-rate monitor.

Up to 275 pounds

40 pound

Stainless steel

Heavy-duty crank, smooth chain.

Option to choose belt design.

Schwinn Fitness AC Performance Plus Spin Bike

This innovative spin cycle captures the road-bike feel along with advanced ergonomics and performance.

Virtually no maintenance. Road-bike feel. Highly adjustable. Durable frame.

Expensive model (but very well built). No workout programs.

Up to 350 pounds

37 pound

Aluminum Frame

Compact and lightweight.

6 Magnet Brake System

Sole SB700 Indoor Spin Cycle

This mid-range spin cycle surpasses its competitors in functionality and ease-of-use with simple high-quality features.

LCD console. Great warranty. Highly adjustable. Heavy Flywheel.

Somewhat expensive. No built-in workouts. No entertainment features.

Up to 300 pounds

45 pound

Stainless steel and aluminum

Ergonomic padded saddle

Backlit LCD console

Bladez Fitness Echelon GS Spin Exercise Bike

This spin cycle packs in features mostly seen in higher-end models with a far lower price tag. It's best suited for beginners and intermediate riders.

40 pound flywheel. Smooth ride. Includes console. Quiet operation.

Maintenance may be required. Uncomfortable seat. Small console.

Up to 300 pounds

45 pound

Stainless steel

Top-down resistance system

Racing Style Handlebars

(Updated June 19, 2017)

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Watch Our Spin Bike Review

How Do I Choose the Best Spin Bike?

So are spin cycles growing in popularity with each passing year? What makes them special? Before we get into that, let's talk about the other options. The standard upright exercise bike is built like a traditional road bike and it uses magnets to create resistance. Recumbent bikes are the easiest to tell apart; they allow you to recline during your workout for superior comfort and back support. Who says you can't relax and ride your bike at the same time? They are also specially designed for people who have injuries or back problems – making it possible to still get a great workout without the pain that would come with a traditional style bicycle seat.

A spin cycle may look like a traditional upright exercise bike, but a few key differences set it apart. The term "spin" actually came from a line of exercise bikes from Mad Dogg Athletics, but the design has since been adopted and improved by the industry. Spin cycles feature a reinforced frame that allows riders to stand or lean from side to side. For many, this extra mobility helps to recreate the intensity of an outdoor ride. They often use a weighted flywheel instead of a motor or magnets for a consistently intense workout session.

We've found that the very best spin cycles feature sturdy, durable frames. Spin cycles use a braking system when you want to slow down, and this too can wear down over time. Most spin cycles can push you to your limits, but the great ones can do it for years to come.

For the most intense workout, many cyclists rely on their spin cycle. Now, let's take a closer look at the factors that you need to consider when choosing the best spin cycle for your needs.

Price

You don't have to pay a fortune for a decent spin cycle. However, the pricier models we're looking at bring some serious advantages to the table. The more expensive models on our shortlist tend to last longer and offer a range of useful features including workout-tracking, quiet operation and ultra-durable brakes.

Reliable spin cycles can be priced anywhere between $200 and $2000.

Features

We have already covered the standard features that you need to look out for when purchasing an indoor cycle, however it’s the advanced features that are the main selling point of higher-end exercise bikes. Look out for these useful options:

Backlit display. This feature may not be a staple for spin cycles, but it can be a huge advantage in terms of motivation and enjoyment. Displays can offer information like calories burned, workout time, distance travelled, heart rate, etc. There are even exercise bikes that offer “video” of scenery as you are riding.
Adjustable Handlebars. Sometimes, adjusting the seat isn't enough. When you sit down at your new spin cycle, you'll want as much adjustability as possible so you can get comfortable.
Phone connectivity. Some spin cycles can connect to your phone via Bluetooth or headphone jack and offer built-in speakers. Listen to the best songs while your ride – or, if your cycle is quiet enough – how about a podcast?
Water Bottle Holder. You don't want to be getting up over and over to get a drink of water – and you don't want to go without it either. That's why some cycles have a built-in bottle holder. Make sure your water bottle fits!
Transport Wheels. Some models include transport wheels so you can easily move your spin cycle around when you need to. Consider this feature if you'll be moving your bike from place to place.
Warranties. Beyond customer reviews, it's difficult to tell exactly how well a cycle will perform. It's always best to choose a company that will back up their products in the event that there is a problem.

Construction and Design

No matter the cost, your stationary cycle should be just that: stationary. The reinforced weight of a spin cycle is one of its main selling points for a reason. As you move from side to side, you'll want to rely on a sturdy frame. Avoid flimsy bikes that may break down sooner than they should.

Spin cycles use either a belt or a chain drive system. Look for a belt driven cycle when possible; belts are quiet, easily adjusted and require less maintenance over time.

Consider the braking system as well. Fabric pads are common, but they break down the fastest. Leather pads last longer and are typically used in high-end bikes. Magnetic brakes, however, operate silently and do not break down the way fabric and leather pads do. Magnetic brakes are usually the best and most expensive option.

Consider bike design and adjustability for your own comfort. Some bikes allow for adjustment in more than one direction so you can really customize your ride. Some bikes offer "micro" adjustment, which gives you more control over seat and handlebar height.

Performance and Ease of Use

Many spin cycles don't have an electronic display, but some riders depend on them to gauge their workout. If you go for a display, it should be easy to read and include information like distance travelled, time elapsed and calories burned. Make sure the screen is large and clear enough before purchasing.

Resistance levels can be hard to master for a beginner cyclist. Higher end spin cycles may offer magnetic resistance, which let’s you easily track resistance. Mid-level bikes often use a manual screw to adjust resistance. This system is generally reliable, but it can be tedious for a beginner to use. Lower end bikes use a cable system for resistance, which can be less reliable than the other systems.

If you plan on sharing your spin cycle frequently, you'll want your bike to be easily adjustable.

What is the Best Spin Bike?

Which exercise bike fits your lifestyle best? Scroll on for our shortlist of 5 top-quality indoor spin cycles and let’s see how they stack up in terms of features, design and performance.

Our Top Choice

The Keiser M3+ Stationary Exercise Bike delivers a sturdy minimalist design on top of its integrated computer display and sophisticated resistance system. If you're looking for a total body workout, the Keiser Total Body Trainer packs the same top-of-the-line mechanics as the M3+.

Keiser M3 Plus Indoor Cycle Stationary Indoor Trainer Exercise Bike

Keiser Spin Bike M3 Plus – Available in Black or Grey

Features

The M3+ Indoor Cycle offers all the dependable features you'd expect to find on a high-end spin cycle for superior intensity, comfort and convenience.

Fully-adjustable handlebars.Adjust the handlebars forward, back, up or down for maximum comfort.
Pull pin seat adjuster.The pull-pin seat adjuster makes it easy to quickly shape the bike to your height.
Compact display.The compact display keeps you working hard as it tracks calories, distance and more.
Bluetooth.Easily connect your phone or tablet to the computer display for even more convenience.
Transport wheels.Transport wheels are practically a necessity on a heavy model like the M3+. They make it easy to move your cycle from location to location.
Water bottle holder.Store your water bottle an arms-length away while you ride.

Construction and Design

The M3+ exercise cycle stands out with a minimalist design that is as stylish as it is strong. Sturdy components and simple design will keep this bike going strong for years of intense training. Riders weighing up to 300 pounds can safely train with the M3+, so you know it's built to last. It's no wonder Keiser's M3+ is so often found in fitness centers, standing up to daily use by countless gym-goers. Its gym-grade construction requires little to no maintenance and is backed up by a heavy-duty warranty.

The M3+ is our top choice for a reason, and it's not just the sturdy components. Its sophisticated magnetic resistance system offers an ultra-smooth ride and 24 levels of difficulty to mimic hills, valleys and other landscapes. The M3+ does away with cloth and leather brake pads so you'll never have to worry about replacing or maintaining the brakes.

The M3+ is available in a sleek grey or black. It can be purchased fully assembled, or you can assemble it yourself with basic tools.

Performance and Ease of Use

Advanced magnetic resistance makes for an ultra-quiet ride, so you can listen to music or watch a movie while you exercise. Its resistance settings are so precise that you can easily set your ideal resistance every time – no guess work required.

Speaking of 'no guess work', the M3+ makes training even easier with its compact computer. The LCD backlit display shows statistics like time, distance, calories and power output and can be projected onto nearby screens through Bluetooth. The computer does not, however, offer any pre-set workout programs.

The M3+ has improved flexibility over the M3 model, with handlebars that can be adjusted both up-and-down and forward-to-back.

Order the M3+ Indoor Cycle for a top-of-line workout you can depend on.

Best Value

The Sunny Pro Indoor Spin Cycle has everything you need to recreate the most intense spin class in your own home. We'll be reviewing the chain-driven model – which closely mimics the feel of a chain-driven road bike – but a belt-driven model is also available and offers a quieter ride.

Sunny Health and Fitness Pro Indoor Spin Cycling Bike - Exercise Bike with Chain Drive

Sunny Spin Bike SF-B901

Features

The Sunny Pro Indoor Cycling Bike features all the basic necessities. It may not have as many features as its competitors, but its quality speaks for itself.

Fully-adjustable seat.Find your perfect fit: adjust the seat back, forward, up or down.
40 pound flywheel.Heavy flywheel makes for an intense workout just like you'd find at spin class.
Heavy-duty frame.Heavy-duty triangular steel frame offers maximum durability and lets you get up and move around while you ride.
Transport wheels.Easily move this bike from location to location with built-in transport wheels.

Construction and Design

The Sunny Pro Indoor Cycling Bike features a sturdy and dependable steel frame. It uses heavy-duty cranks and pull-pins along the frame to make adjustments for your comfort. The wide black saddle adjusts forward and backward as well as up and down.

You can purchase this cycle with a chain or a belt-driven mechanism. Both options are dependable, so it comes down to a matter of preference. The sturdy chain option mimics the feel of a road bike, but may require oiling from time to time. The belt option never needs an oiling as tends to run smoother and quieter. For those who like to listen to music or watch a movie while they ride, quiet operation can be a huge plus.

Performance and Ease of Use

The Sunny Indoor Bike performs just like a spin-class exercise bike because of its 40-pound flywheel. It offers a workout that is both easy to get into and intense to the finish. Considering the incredibly low price compared to its competitors, this model really gets the job done for beginners and seasoned experts alike. Its adjustable resistance levels are relatively easy to cycle through and provide a challenge for any rider.

The Sunny Spin Cycle may not have all the bells and whistles of its competitors, but users consistently praise its functionality. At a great price, this cycle easily deserves the title of best value.

Start your training today with the Sunny Indoor Spin Bike.

The Schwinn Fitness AC Performance Plus Spin Cycle packs innovation into every feature for top-of-line ergonomics and performance. For an equal dose of innovation, check out the Schwinn® Airdyne® AD6 exercise bike, featuring a central fan for exponential wind resistance and a dynamic workout every time.

Schwinn Fitness AC Performance Plus Indoor Cycling Bike with Carbon Blue Belt Drive

Schwinn Spin Bike 100178 - Pearl White

Features

The features you'll find on the Schwinn Fitness AC Performance Plus Spin Cycle are designed to perfect the riding experience – they guide beginners and enable seasoned riders so you can get started and keep at it.

Ergoloop & aero bars.This spin cycle features a set of ergoloop bars and aero bars so riders can choose their preferred position. While you might find the ergoloop more comfortable some days, other days you may want to kick it up a notch as you race through an intense workout with the aero bars.
Foam seat & handlebars.Thick, comfortable foam is used for this cycles saddle and handlebars so you can ride day after day without getting soar in the wrong place.
Micropin adjustersEasy-to-use micropin adjusters take the challenge and guess work out of your workout. Beginners can get started in no time with neutral positions and adjust from there.
Dual water bottle holders.The Schwinn AC Performance Plus offers dual water bottle holders and even has a small shelf for an mp3 player.
Transport wheels.Even though this model is fairly lightweight, the built-in transport wheels can be incredibly convenient when the time comes.

Construction and Design

The Schwinn AC spin cycle's design was built with its rider's comfort in mind. Its wide pedals and multi-position handlebars are built to comfortably accommodate any user. This top quality spin cycle offers two great construction features:

Aluminum frame.The first and most noticeable innovation you'll find on this spin cycle is its durable yet lightweight and rust-free aluminum frame.
Maintenance-free magnetic systems.The Schwinn AC Performance Plus features magnet powered brakes for precise and maintenance-free resistance. Magnetic reduces also reduces noise and eliminates wear and tear.
"Carbon Blue" Belt Drive.Schwinn's innovative belt technology combines the advantages of the belt and chain in one design. Its reinforced carbon fiber belt uses chain-like teeth to mimic the feel of a road-bike without sacrificing a smooth ride.

Performance and Ease of Use

Schwinn isn't afraid to defy convention, if it means creating a better product. That's why the AC Performance Plus is both easy to use and easy to master. In terms of performance and ease of use, you get:

6 magnet resistance.A 6 magnet breaking system makes for a uniquely smooth ride you can only feel with the AC Performance Plus.
Total Adjustability.Most spin cycles are adjustable, but few models let you adjust the angle of your handlebars like the Schwinn Fitness Plus. Its lightweight padded handlebars incline to 12 degrees so you have complete control over your riding position.
Virtual contact technology.This spin cycle's brakes never directly contact the flywheel, meaning there is no wear and tear. This technology virtually eliminates the need for maintenance and significantly decreases noise.

Check out the Schwinn AC Performance Plus for an authentic riding experience.

The Sole Fitness Indoor Cycle far surpasses its competitors at the mid-range price point – this cycle is a great middle ground between lower and higher-end models. You can find the same quality construction and features with added back support and comfort in the Sole Fitness LCR Light Commercial Recumbent Bike.

Sole Light Commercial Indoor Cycle Exercise Bike – Gym Quality Spin Bicycle

Sole Spin Bike SB700

Features

The Sole Fitness CB700 is a simple machine that doesn't offer entertainment features, but its quiet operation makes it easy to listen to music or watch a movie while you ride. You also will enjoy many other great features, such as:

LCD console.The LCD console offers stats like RPM, time spent, calories burned, distance travelled and speed.
Wireless heart rate monitor.The LCD console is compatible with wireless heart rate monitors, which are sold separately.
Wide pedals.The wide pedals and 300 pound capacity of this spin cycle means that its fit for nearly anyone to ride.
Water bottle holder.A convenient water bottle holder is built into the handlebars for easy access.
Tension-control knob.Easily adjust the difficulty with a simple knob while you ride.

If you're considering the Sole Fitness cycle, you may want to also consider the slightly more expensive Sole Fitness CB900. It uses magnetic resistance and a heavier frame to cut down on noise and maintenance.

Construction and Design

The Sole SB700 packs serious weight and durability into its compact frame. We chose this spin cycle because it excels in all-around quality, especially for its mid-range price. Here's what makes it a dependable choice:

48 pound flywheel.The heavy chrome flywheel on this spin cycle makes for a consistent workout that pushes you to your limits.
Kevlar belt.The Sole Fitness SB700 uses a Kevlar belt and manages to create a consistently smooth ride.
Steel & aluminum frame.A heavy frame made from steel tubing and aluminum makes this spin cycle strong and low-maintenance.
Compact design.This cycle takes up a relatively small amount of space and can be easily moved around, making it a versatile machine for most homes.
Heavy-duty capacity.The Sole Fitness SB700 has a weight capacity of 300 pounds, making it one of the sturdier bikes on the market, especially at its price range.

Performance and Ease of Use

Sole Fitness makes it easy to get into your ride with simple, dependable features. You'll find easy-to-use adjusters that move the seat and handlebars up and down as well as forward and back. The padded ergonomic saddle and multi-position handlebars let you settle into your ride the way you want.

Simply twist the resistance knob to modify your workout as you ride. The LCD backlit console is on the compact side, but it's easy to read. Overall this spin cycle doesn't offer much in the way of entertainment or revolutionary features, but it excels in simplicity and quality. Beginners and seasoned athletes will both find everything they need in this cycle.

Go to Amazon for a current price on the Sole Indoor Spin Cycle and start training today!

The Bladez Fitness Echelon GS Spin Cycle is packed with useful features you'd expect from a much more expensive bike. If you are in need of back support and/or more comfort, check out the equally high-value Blades Fitness R300 Recumbent Bike.

Bladez Fitness Echelon GS Indoor Spin Cycle – Spin Bike with 40 Pound Flywheel

Bladez Spin Bike - ECHELON GS

Features

The Echelon GS packs in high-value features for its price point. Here are some of the useful features that this spin cycle offers:

Racing-style handlebars.These handlebars allow for a classic road-biking position that riders appreciate during an intense workout.
LCD consoleThe LCD display on the Echelon GS is small but useful. It displays speed, distance, calories and time.
Emergency brakeIn addition to its simple resistance adjuster, the Echelon GS features an emergency brake for its rider's safety.
Water bottle holderKeep your water at arm's reach during your workout.
Transport WheelsMove this heavy machine from location to location by leaning it on its built-in wheels.

Construction and Design

We chose the Echelon GS for its mid-range value and low-range price tag. For a different mix of quality and value, check out the less expensive Fusion GS II or the higher-end Master GS. Let's explore the design features that give this bike its value.

40 pound flywheel.Like most quality spin bikes, this cycle uses a heavy flywheel for smooth riding that's easy on your knees.
Belt-driven.The Echelon GS uses a belt-driven system for smooth riding, but it requires more maintenance than a magnetic system, which you'd find in high-end bikes. Still, the belt drive is quiet, low-maintenance and smoother than a chain.
Felt pad resistance.This cycle uses felt pad brakes for resistance and emergency brake. This makes for a relatively quiet ride. The felt pad will eventually brake down and require maintenance.

All in all, the Echelon is built well and riders can depend on it. Its heavy design is easily heavy enough to allow its rider full mobility without falling over.

Performance and Ease of Use

The Echelon GS Indoor Spin Cycle is easy to get started with. Riders find it extremely quick and easy to adjust seat and handlebar levels, so this bike is great for beginners as well as households with multiple riders.

While riding, the knob above the flywheel makes it easy to adjust the resistance level. It can take some time for beginners to learn how much resistance to apply, but the resistance itself is consistent.

The basic console included with the Echelon GS is fairly small and displays information like speed, time, distance and calories. It requires a AAA battery – not included. Users say that the console should be bigger and easier to use. Since LCD consoles are rarely seen on spin cycles in this price range, the Bladez Fitness Echelon GS is still a great value purchase.

Check out the Bladez Fitness Echelon GS and get all the features you're looking for without the high price tag!

Get the Best Spin Bike of 2019!

Any of these spin bikes can offer a dependable workout, but each has its advantages. Whether you're looking for a heart-racing resistance workout or a fully-adjustable bike you can depend on, this list has got you covered.

Our Top Choice

Keiser M3+ Indoor Spin Bike

Best Value

Sunny Health & Fitness Pro Indoor Spin Bike

Schwinn Fitness AC Performance Plus Spin Bike

Sole SB700 Indoor Spin Cycle

Bladez Fitness Echelon GS Spin Exercise Bike