Reviewer tests 12 exercise bikes and recommends top models for home workouts

A reviewer tested 12 exercise bikes and published a list of the best models for home workouts, spin classes and recumbent use. The Peloton Bike+ was named best overall (from £1,899), praised for its live and on‑demand classes, 23.8in rotating HD screen and automatic resistance, though the reviewer noted a £45‑a‑month “all access” membership and limited compatibility with many third‑party cycling apps.

The budget pick was the Horizon 3.0SC (£569.99), which offers a front‑mounted flywheel with 32 electronically adjustable resistance levels, Bluetooth FTMS app support and a tablet holder but no integrated display. The Wattbike Proton (£1,575) was recommended as the best compact bike for a realistic ride and broad app support, the Technogym Bike (£3,620) was highlighted as a gym‑quality option with a 22in touchscreen and a membership starting at £8.99 a month, and the LifeFitness RS3 LifeCycle (£2,095) was chosen as the best recumbent for comfort, despite a fiddly console and no built‑in multimedia.

Tests were carried out using either borrowed pre‑assembled machines or in dedicated workout spaces, with machines judged on build quality, features, ease of setup and storage, adjustability, noise (measured with a smartphone decibel meter) and ride feel.

Key Topics

Health, Peloton Bike+, Wattbike Proton, Technogym Bike, Indoor Cycling