Space-saving exercise equipment can be really invaluable for those who want to get in shape in the comfort of their home. We’ve talked about different types of such equipment and today we’re going to delve a bit deeper and look at the best folding exercise bikes on the market.
There are so many benefits (that we’re going to touch upon later) to stationary bikes that, combined with their collapsible space-saving design, make them a must-have for fitness enthusiasts living in a small space.
So let’s jump right into it
P.S.
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Best Folding Exercise Bikes For Small Spaces
3-in-1 Upright YOSUDA Folding Bike
Full size: 27.9″ x 15.3″ x 40.9″ (70 x 39 x 104 cm)
Folded size: 13.3” x 15.3” x 50” (34 x 39 x 127 cm)
Weight capacity: 270 lbs (122 kg)
User height: 4’9”- 6’1” (144-185 cm)
Resistance levels: 8
Sturdy and compact, the YOSUDA folding exercise bike is one of the top choices for small spaces.
Already, it solves one of the most prevalent issues associated with indoor exercise bikes — noise. The squeaky grating noise is not an issue with this one as it employs a quiet non-contact magnetron system to create resistance and keep the noise levels below 18 dB.
Speaking of, this folding bike is capable of growing with you and your fitness prowess thanks to 8 resistance levels. And the high-density composite magnets will indeed make you feel the difference between the magnetic resistance levels.
An upright exercise bike is also much better at simulating an outdoor ride than a recumbent bike, by giving you a more intense workout and targeting your abs, glutes, back, arms, and even your neck.
This model does make several improvements in the comfort department compared to its outdoor cousin. Starting with a padded, oversized, and comfortable seat — measuring 12.8” x 9.9” (33 x 25 cm)– that you can adjust the height of to suit your needs.
And as promised, this compact folding exercise bike does indeed collapse to take up only 1.4 sq ft (0.13 m²) and measures 13.3” x 15.3” x 50” (34 x 39 x 127 cm) in its folded state.
But don’t let its small stature fool you. The YOSUDA stationary bike’s weight capacity is 270 lbs (122 kg) and the suitable height for the user is 4’9”- 6’1”.
And as you pedal away, you can consult the bike monitor that will provide you with the time, distance, speed, calories burned, and other useful data.
BARWING 4-in-1 Foldable Upright Recumbent Bike
Regular size: 41.3” x 22.3” x 32.3” (105 x 56 x 82 cm)
Folded size: 1.5 sq ft (0,14 m2)
Weight: 48 lbs (21 kg)
Weight capacity: 330 lbs (149 kg)
User height: 4’4”- 6’6” (132-198 cm)
Resistance levels: 16
Folding bikes often get a lot of bad rep for being flimsy or unreliable due to their slim and compact size. However, BARWING’s heavy-duty steel frame aims to prove that you don’t need to sacrifice reliability to create a foldable exercise bike that does the job and does it well.
Made of alloy steel and weighing 48 lbs (21 kg) this bike’s weight capacity counts 330 lbs (149 kg).
It is also one of the most customizable folding bikes on this list. You can shift it from an upright position to a more reclined one to go easier on the joints (which also makes this folding bike a great choice for seniors). And don’t misinterpret that, a recumbent bike can still give your thighs, calves, and glute muscles a proper but gentler workout. In addition to transforming from upright to reclined to folded positions, this foldable bike also has 8 seat height and 2 seat position adjustment options.
Apart from that, this foldable stationary bike comes with 2 sets of resistance bands — one just below the handles for an upper body workout, and one opposite the pedals for leg exercises.
As for how much this folding exercise bike can challenge you, it has 16 resistance levels based on an upgraded magnetic resistance system. So you can adjust everything about this bike, from position and resistance levels to incorporating the resistance bands into your workout, to enjoy a quiet and smooth ride.
The bike also boasts a comfortable padded seat with a backrest that doesn’t interfere with its foldable design — going from 41.3” x 22.3” x 32.3” (105 x 56 x 82 cm) to taking up only 1.5 sq ft (0,14 m2).
KEPANE Folding Exercise Bike
Regular size: 37.4″ x 21.25″ x 46.5″ (95 x 54 x 118 cm)
Folded size: 45.3” x 16.92” x 16.2” (115 x 43 x 41 cm)
Weight: 38 lbs (17 kg)
Weight capacity: 300 lbs (136 kg)
Resistance levels: 8
A sleek simple and minimalist machine, the KEPANE exercise bike will easily fit into a small space and your workout routine.
This 38 lbs bike folds to a compact 45.3” x 16.92” x 16.2” (115 x 43 x 41 cm) size and can be easily transported for storage thanks to its front wheels.
As for its capabilities, this folding exercise bike has it all. A magnetic resistance mechanism with 8 adjustable resistance levels for both a warm-up and a proper cardio workout.
For extra comfort, the bike comes with a padded seat with a backrest and both can be adjusted for your height and desired position for the workout (upright or reclined). The suitable user height for this folding bike is in the 4’1”-6’6” range and the maximum weight capacity is 300 lbs.
During the workout you can keep an eye on your mileage, heart rate, calories burned and speed thank to a handily positioned LCD screen. Or you can make use of the built-in bracket to place your iPad or phone in front of you for a bit of entertainment.
Overall, this bike is the best choice for small apartment dwellers or those who, in general, don’t have a lot of free space to work with. It is quiet, sturdy, compact, and the addition of wheels is definitely a bonus that will help you quickly place the bike in and out of storage without pulling your back and scratching the floors.
pooboo 4-in-1 Indoor Folding Exercise Bike
Regular size: 37.4″ x 21.25″ x 46.5″ (95 x 54 x 118 cm)
Folded size: 45.3” x 16.92” x 16.2” (115 x 43 x 41 cm)
Weight: 38 lbs (17 kg)
Weight capacity: 300 lbs (136 kg)
Resistance levels: 8
This is the best folding exercise bike for those who want to squeeze a bit more out of their workout. And pooboo does deliver a workout.
At its core, this is an exercise bike made of thick alloy steel with an aluminum flywheel that gives you 8 levels of resistance to choose from. It accommodates users in the 4’6”-6’3” height range and has a 300 lbs weight capacity limit.
However, what this bike does differently from other folding bikes is adding resistance band training on top of these features. At the base of the bike, you will find a set of resistance bands that you can use in 2 ways.
First, you can take the bands as is and do lateral raises to work your back and shoulder muscles. But you can also loop the bands through the front of the bike for biceps curls and other types of arm exercises. So yeah, it packs a bit more fitness equipment into its small frame allowing you to diversify your workouts, strengthen muscles, and lose weight.
The bike seat has 7 adjustment levels to help you shift from an upright to a recumbent position allowing you to customize your workout even further.
And of course, it being a folding stationary bike, you can fold it in half and wheel it away for storage. It will fit perfectly into a small storage closet or behind a door after an intense workout.
DPFIT Folding Stationary Exercise Bike
Regular size: 32.5″ x 18.3″ x 48.6″ (82.55 x 46.48 x 123.44 cm)
Folded size: 18.3”x 15” (46 x 48 x 38.1 cm)
Weight: 31 lbs (14 kg)
Weight capacity: 225 lbs (102 kg)
Resistance levels: 8
An upright bike that can deliver results on the budget with minimal frills and doodads. DPFIT takes up minimal floor space and can be easily folded into a compact 55.5” x 15” x 18.3” by simply pulling a pin.
This is also one of those upright bikes that features an extra large cushioned seat with 7 adjustment levels, making it a great choice for those who value comfort (or hate the pain of an uncomfortable bike seat). It has a magnetic resistance mechanism with a balanced flywheel and 8 resistance levels.
And you get an LCD display with all of the important data about your ride shown, including distance, calories burned, time, speed, and more.
It is a simple sturdy bike that makes it a great piece of exercise equipment for those who are only dipping their toes into the idea of regularly exercising at home.
Everfit Exercise Bike Spin X-Bike
Regular size: 45″ x 32” x 16.3” (115 x 81 x 41.5 cm)
Folded size: 53.7” x 14.1” x 16.3” (136.5 x 36 x 41.5 cm)
Weight capacity: 220 lbs (100 kg)
Resistance levels: 8
Where many exercise bikes might be difficult to fit into your apartment without them sticking out like a sore thumb, this Everfit model will change your mind. Its sleek powder-coated steel exterior is simple in a minimalist kind of way.
So you can keep it on display or just as easily fold it in half and hide it away after your cardio workouts. And it does reduce in size quite a bit, going from 31.8” x 45.2” x 16.3” to 14.1” x 53.7” x 16.3” and saving you tons of floor space.
The bike offers eight manual resistance levels and a quiet magnetic system that allows you to get an efficient and sweat-inducing workout in without much noise.
Marcy Foldable Exercise Bike
Regular size: 32″ x 18.25″ x 42.25″ (81 x 46 x 107 cm)
Weight: 40 lbs (18 kg)
Weight capacity: 300 lbs (136 kg)
Resistance levels: 8
Marcy has several models in their line of foldable stationary bikes, that you can see here, but let’s talk about their most popular one.
This lightweight 40 lbs budget folding exercise bike is highly portable and can be easily folded for storage. And although compact, it is also quite solid thanks to its 14 gauge steel frame (which is much thicker than your average folding exercise bike) and can give you a proper cardio workout.
This one is an upright bike which means it gives you a more intense ride than recumbent folding stationary bikes. The number of calories you can burn on a bike like this depends on several factors (workout intensity, your weight, etc.) but you can count on burning around 210-290 kcal in just 30 minutes.
Relife 3-in-1 Folding Exercise Bike
Regular size: 47” x 26” x 16″ (119 x 66 x 40 cm)
Folded size: 16” x 9” x 53” (40 x 23 x 135 cm)
Weight: 42 lbs (19 kg)
Weight capacity: 330 lbs (150 kg)
Resistance levels: 10
Another unicorn on our list, this foldable exercise bike from Relife effortlessly shifts from an upright ride, to a recumbent one, and to semi-recumbent with upper body training.
The compact steel alloy frame can be easily folded and moved thanks to the built-in transport wheels. It also boasts a 10-level magnetic resistance system which allows you to choose whether you want a simple warm-up or a proper workout.
As for comfort, this folding stationary bike has a comfortable seat with a foldable backrest and you can adjust its height to find your perfect fit.
Now, you also get extra cardio equipment with this foldable bike. You can use the built-in resistance bands to strengthen your arms, upper back, and shoulders while you are pedaling away.
The LCD display also provides you with a bit more information than other folding exercise bikes on this list, like measuring your heart rate thanks to the pulse sensors on the grip handle.
In short, this is the best folding exercise bike available on the market for those seeking versatility, convenience, and a comprehensive workout experience without breaking the bank.
Stamina Folding Exercise Bike 182
Regular size: 15” x 8” x 46.5” (38 x 20 x 118 cm)
Weight: 40 lbs (18 kg)
Weight capacity: 250 lbs (113 kg)
Resistance levels: 8
Another one of the best folding exercise bikes, this model offers eight levels of adjustable magnetic resistance while keeping you comfortable with a wider cushioned seat than most folding exercise bikes.
What makes this model stand out is the consideration for your workout and convenience. The handlebars are equipped with pulse sensors to help you keep track of your heart rate on top of other metrics such as distance and calories burned to maximize the effectiveness of your exercises.
You can also stay hydrated thanks to a built-in water holder. And you can also make use of the iPad holder and watch something to keep your mind occupied during your long-distance cycling. Speaking of, the purchase of this folding exercise bike includes an access code to three online video workouts to start you off on your fitness journey the right way.
Add a carbon steel frame and built-in wheels to the list of its features and you’ve got yourself one of the best folding exercise bikes that will give you a proper lower body exercise.
XTERRA Fitness FB350 Folding Bike
Regular size: 31.89″ x 18.1″ x 43.30″ (81 x 46 x 110 cm)
Folded size: 18.1” x 17.1” x 50.79” (46 x 46 x 129 cm)
Weight: 32 lbs (14.5 kg)
Weight capacity: 225 lbs (102 kg)
Resistance levels: 8
A folding exercise bike for those who want a challenge, XTERRA Fitness FB350 Folding Bike will give even the advanced users a run for their money.
This exercise bike features eight resistance levels and steel tubing making it a sturdy and efficient exercise machine. However, it easily folds to a 20.5” x 20” size and can be transported to a hiding space thanks to built-in wheels.
With a comfortable seat with a backrest, ergonomic handlebar, pulse sensors, and LCD display sensors you can fully focus on your workout and optimize it to bear the best results. And indeed, thanks to the backrest you can shift between two seating positions to ensure longer and more effective rides without back pain.
YOSUDA Folding Exercise Bike
Regular size: 27.9″D x 15.3″W x 40.9″H (70 x 38 x 103 cm)
Folded size: 1.39 sq. ft. (0.13 m²)
Weight: 32 lbs (14.5 kg)
Weight capacity: 270 lbs (122 kg)
Resistance levels: 8
Ready to go in just 20 minutes, the YOSUDA folding exercise bike is much more than a simple stationary bike. With magnetic resistance ensuring a smooth and quiet ride (really quiet, in fact), the eight levels of it will adjust to your fitness growth as time goes by.
Those new to exercising at home can often experience a lack of motivation when exercising the same way day in and out. However, with this folding stationary bike, you can introduce more engaging exercises into your routine apart from pedaling. With built-in resistance bands, you can also focus on upper body strength as well as working out your glutes, thighs, and calves. Providing a full-body workout is definitely something that makes this model a contender for the name of the best folding exercise bike.
The seat with the backrest ensures a comfortable ride and can be adjusted to suit your height. Nevertheless, despite its impressive performance, this model is one of the foldable exercise bikes variety. You can easily collapse it for convenient storage whenever you’re done with it or need to free up some space and wheel it away.
What are the types of folding exercise bikes?
As with any exercise machine, there are different types of folding exercise bikes. While there is not as much variety as with regular stationary bikes due to the folding ones needing to be compact and portable, there is still a distinction to be made between certain types and what benefits they bring to the table.
So let’s take a look at them so you can choose the best folding exercise bike with confidence.
Upright Exercise Bikes
Upright bikes are designed to resemble traditional bicycles and a typically smaller seat. With pedals positioned directly below the seat, they force you into a more upright seating position that engages much more than just your lower body.
Upright folding exercise bikes not only put the expected group of muscles through a workout such as your quads, glutes, and calves but your core, shoulders, and arms will also get their fair share of work.
In fact, depending on your training regimen you can get a high-intensity workout out of an upright exercise bike — by cranking up the resistance level or employing HIIT intervals.
On average, you can burn around 600 calories on an upright bike. However, it is important to know that to efficiently use the upright folding exercise bike, you need to be at least somewhat above the beginner level. For those more out of shape, recovering from injuries, chronic back pain issues, or bad knees/hips, recumbent folding exercise bikes might be a better option.
Recumbent Exercise Bikes
Recumbent bikes typically feature a more reclined seat with a backrest and pedals positioned in front of the user rather than beneath them. This offers you a more comfortable seating that reduces stress on the body and knees while providing better support for those with back or joint issues.
Recumbent folding exercise bikes allow you to sit back and, well not relax, but take it a bit easier. Which is not a bad thing — losing weight or keeping in shape is all about consistency, and if a more comfortable bike is going to ensure that for you then it’s an excellent choice.
This will be the best folding exercise bike for beginners, seniors, people with joint problems, or back pain issues. However, it is also a great choice for anyone who wants to build endurance and get in better shape.
And don’t be fooled by our saying that they are more comfortable or “easier” — you can still burn around 300 calories an hour on a bike such as the ones on this list.
How To Choose The Best Folding Exercise Bike
There is obviously some considerations to be made before you decide on which folding exercise bike to buy. Here are some things you should keep in mind while choosing the best stationary bike for you.
Bike type
Just as we mentioned above, whether you go for an upright bike or a recumbent one will make a certain impact on your workout. From the intensity of it to your comfort, make sure you know what you need to choose the best folding exercise bike for yourself.
Budget
Setting a budget helps narrow down your options. But it also will allow you to manage your expectations.
Nowadays, you can find a folding exercise bike for as little as $80 or as much as $400 (space-saving exercise equipment is pretty desirable). The quality often but definitely not always reflects those prices so also make sure to read up on the model you’re considering, including the reviews. From our research, the best value for your buck usually lies in the $150-$250 price range and you’ll find that it applies to most of the bikes on this list.
Comfort
Your comfort is also something you need to give thought to before making the decision. Although any amount of exercise is great, you’re probably looking for a folding bike to clock in at least a couple of hours a week.
Look at the bikes through the lens of your own preferences. Maybe you don’t find narrow seats comfortable, or your back tends to act up so a backrest would be preferable. A folding exercise bike is an investment and it should suit you like a glove.
Resistance levels & types
Most folding stationary bikes come with a magnetic resistance system that has a quiet flywheel that requires no maintenance. They, however, also have a certain limitation to the resistance levels they offer (although 8 or 16 levels should be more than enough). You might also stumble onto spin bikes with heavier flywheels or air bikes that tend to generate more noise, so be mindful of that. The latter type does compensate for the noise with virtually unlimited resistance levels.
Measurements
A folding exercise bike is a gamechanger for small spaces and cramped apartments. Still, it is important to check the machine’s size, both folded and unfolded, to make sure it will fit into the storage space you’ve chosen for it.
Also, check the height and weight specifications to make sure the bike will suit you. Ideally, when seated on the bike with the pedals at the lowest point, your leg should have a slight bend in the knee. It might be hard to gauge this when shopping for a folding exercise bike online, so look for one that offers adjustable seat height and posistion to have some wiggle room.
Sturdiness
Check the material the folding bike is made of as well as the weight capacity limit specified by the manufacturer.
If you get to test the bike, make sure it doesn’t wobble when ridding it. If it does, it is probably not safe to ride for extended periods of time.
Noise levels
Some people don’t mind noisy exercise machines. For others, especially those who want to exercise in an apartment with thin walls or roommates, it is an absolute deal breaker.
As we mentioned before, magnetic resistance bikes are usually the quietest and can ensure a smooth almost noiseless ride. A lot of manufacturers also specify the noise levels of the bike. Just for reference, 20 dB is equivalent to the noise level of someone whispering 5 feet away from you.
Benefits of Folding Exercise Bikes
Biking is a great way to get in shape no matter your age or level of fitness prowess. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of folding exercise bikes and why you should give them a shot on your fitness journey.
Space-saving
Needless to say, one of the most common blockers for people trying to exercise at home is the lack of space. What makes folding exercise bikes good is that it allows you to work out even in the smallest space without bumping into coffee tables. And fold and store them afterward to keep your small space free of clutter.
Convenience
With a folding bike, you can exercise whenever it suits you, without the need to travel to a gym. Or look for cardio workouts online. Having a folding exercise bike readily available makes it easier to incorporate it into your routine and make it a regular part of your day.
Versatility
Folding exercise bikes are pretty versatile and suit various fitness goals. With adjustable resistance levels, you can customize the intensity of your workouts, try HIIT intervals, and (with some models) incorporate resistance band training.
Improved Cardiovascular Health
Folding exercise bikes can provide an effective cardiovascular workout that helps improve heart and lung health, lower blood pressure, reduce pain and stiffness, and improve your mood. Especially if you have a desk job, exercising on a stationary bike can improve blood circulation lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Benefits all around.
Weight loss
An hour of riding an exercise bike can help you burn around 300-600 calories. In addition to other health benefits, working out on an exercise bike combined with a healthy diet can help you achieve a necessary calorie deficit to lose weight.
Flexibility
A folding exercise bike allows you to multitask. You can ride and watch a movie, read a book, or talk on the phone and that can be a real game changer for some. Whether you have a busy schedule or are easily bored with exercises, a folding exercise bike might just work for you.
Low-impact
Cycling on a folding exercise bike is a low-impact activity that puts minimal stress on your joints. This makes it a great option for those with joint issues, arthritis, or those recovering from injuries. However, it can also be a great starting point for those who are new to exercising as running and cardio workouts can be pretty intense for beginners.
Best Folding Exercise Bikes FAQs
Are foldable exercise bikes worth it?
Absolutely! Folding exercise bikes are space-saving, great for your health and potential weight loss, and it is a one-time investment that can save you on a gym membership.
How do I choose a folding exercise bike?
We’ve touched upon this above, but when it comes to choosing a foldable exercise bike for yourself take your budget, available space, weight and height, and comfort into consideration.
Which exercise bike is most like a real bike?
A spin bike or an air bike (also known as a fan bike) are the closest you can get to riding a real bike. However, you can rarely find these in a foldable form due to their large flywheels and air fans respectively.
Is 30 minutes on a stationary bike enough?
Whether 30 minutes on a stationary bike is enough fully depends on your fitness goals and fitness level as a whole. But it is definitely a step in the right direction whether you’re exercising for your health or weight loss or both.
How much should I spend on an exercise bike?
The cost of an exercise bike can definitely vary, with entry-level folding exercise bikes starting at around $100-$200 and more advanced models with extra features and durability can go all the way to $300-$1000. This is why it is important to set a budget and stick with it. However, most of the bikes on this list manage to balance a relatively affordable price with a quality workout experience.
Is it OK to exercise on a bike every day?
Exercising on a bike every day can be totally fine, as long as you listen to your body and don’t push yourself past the limit. It’s important to allow yourself to rest and recover to prevent overuse injuries and give your muscles time to repair and strengthen.
