Many people have become more interested in a reliable option to workout at home after the recent and ongoing pandemic restrictions. This is understandable and after a certain amount of research some people opt for a low impact exercise bike. This is a good choice, but the next challenge is to understand the Flywheel vs Magnetic Exercise Bike differences.
The first thing to understand is that both options are not really in direct competition with each other. A better way to look at them is that they are better at different things and your final choice will depend on what you need. Almost every exercise bike has some sort of flywheel to create the resistance that simulates road bike riding. Generally speaking, the heavier the flywheel the greater and smoother the resistance can be. There is a point when this becomes a limiting factor because the bike will be bigger, heavier and harder to move around.
It may be normal to see larger exercise bikes at the local cycling class. But, most people don’t have the space for a permanent installation in their homes and the costs can be prohibitive. So, manufacturers needed to find an alternative way to create the resistance needed for an indoor riding workout.
The two popular options are magnetic and flywheel resistance. Let’s take a look at the characteristics of both to help you make an informed purchasing decision.
The Magnetic Exercise Bike Basics
Magnetic exercise bikes are relatively new technology and they have overtaken direct-contact models. These bikes solve a lot of the problems that other resistance exercise bikes have.
The resistance is created through steps using a pair of powerful magnets and the front-mounted flywheel is the magnetic conductor. During cycling, the flywheel rotation changes the feel of the magnets creating resistance. At no point do the magnets touch the flywheel, only the magnetic field creates the resistance. The resistance level can be changed with a turn of the tension knob or controls on the console. The exact resistance can be set and changed at any time to create a road bike riding experience and the optimal workout intensity.
Pros:
- Magnetic exercise bikes are smooth and quiet.
- These bikes don’t require much maintenance.
- The resistance levels are clearly marked and easy to change at any time.
- The resistance is extremely consistent for any type of workout.
Cons:
- Magnetic resistance bikes cost more to produce and this is reflected in the higher prices.
The Flywheel Exercise Bike Basics
The flywheel exercise bike is a tried and tested design with a mechanical flywheel that stores energy. The flywheel is that heavy disk at the front which is connected to the pedals with a belt or chain system. These are typically covered in a case to prevent dust and dirt from entering those components. During pedaling, the momentum is stored and if the resistance is raised you can burn more calories.
Pros:
- The heavier flywheels (40-50 lbs) can give you a great workout.
- Flywheel models tend to be less expensive.
Cons:
- Lighter flywheels (under 40 lbs) offer so little resistance that they are effectively useless for working out.
- The maintenance requirements can be higher over the lifespan of the bike.
Flywheel vs Magnetic Exercise Bike
The exercise bike flywheel vs magnetic differences can be better understood when the characteristics of each bike are examined closely. They are:
1. Resistance Level Changes of Exercise Bike
Both types of bikes offer the capability to change the resistance easily before and during the ride. The magnetic resistance models have gears that adjust the distance from the magnets to the flywheel. The changes on the flywheel models can be less smooth because the belt or chain has a physical movement to consider. The magnetic models feel smooth and less jerky which is a bonus during longer rides.
2. Accurate and Repeatable Resistance
For repeatable and efficient workouts, you need accurate resistance levels. Both bikes are pretty good in this respect, but magnetic resistance models have a slight advantage. These models have computerized control systems where you enter the level that you want and you’re ready to go. This is why magnetic models are the more popular choice in indoor cycling classes and larger gyms. Direct contact flywheel resistance models tend to be less accurate, but most people can still get a great workout despite this disadvantage.
3. Noise Levels of the Flywheel vs Magnetic Exercise Bike
The winner here is a magnetic resistance system. They are smooth and quiet enough for early morning workouts without disturbing anyone. A contact-based resistance system is louder because the flywheel is touched to create the friction and resistance.
4. Transportation of the Flywheel vs Magnetic Exercise Bike
If you need to move the exercise bike, then the weight and/or ease of assembly may be a priority. A direct contact flywheel resistance bike is heavier than a magnetic bike. But, both types tend to have transportation wheels on the bottom to make them easier to move.
5. Increased Resistance Levels
The best way to burn more calories and to increase fitness is to ride at higher resistance levels. A contact-based flywheel at over 40 lbs will have higher resistance levels because extra resistance is added as the pedaling frequency increases. A magnetic system has a set fixed resistance level, which is more consistent for longer rides.
6. Wear and Tear of the Exercise Bike
A magnetic resistance model is virtually maintenance free because direct contact with the flywheel does not occur. Contact-based resistance bikes have wear and tear to the pads that touch the flywheel and they will need replacement. If you don’t want to deal with any maintenance, get the magnetic resistance exercise bike.
7. Price of the Flywheel vs Magnetic Exercise Bike
If you’re on a tighter budget, a contact-based resistance bike is less expensive than a magnetic bike. Many magnetic bikes have a host of extra features, including LED control panels, programming options and more. But, you don’t really need these features and a basic magnetic bike will be cheaper than a model with all those bells and whistles. For a basic riding experience, a contact-based resistance model can give you a great workout without breaking the bank.
Conclusion-Flywheel vs Magnetic Exercise Bike
As you can see, the magnetic exercise bike vs flywheel choice can be simple, if you understand your needs and budget. The key to making the right decision is almost entirely based upon the way that resistance works and how you will use it. Both types of exercise bikes offer different levels of resistance for a challenging workout. But, people that want a smoother and quieter riding experience will prefer the magnetic resistance models.