A folding exercise bike is ideal for getting a regular cardio workout at home where space is limited. A foldable exercise bike can be stored in a closet or out of the way until you need to exercise. Apart from being compact, an upright folding bike typically has the basic features of stationary upright exercise bikes and recumbent exercise bikes.
An indoor exercise bike is usually the first piece of equipment for a home gym. However, if you want to save floor space, your options for reaching your fitness goals at home could be limited. A portable exercise bike is an ideal solution to getting fit. A compact exercise bike typically has variable resistance levels, a pulse monitor, and adjustable seat height. But, of course, its foldable design is the primary reason home gym enthusiasts buy this type of collapsible exercise bike.
It can be challenging to find a folding exercise bike to buy to help you reach the fitness level you need. A quick internet search for “how to buy the best folding exercise bike” brings up thousands of entries.
The 8 Best Folding Exercise Bikes
Let’s look in detail at the best exercise bikes that fold up. This in-depth review examines the various types of folding bikes that are suitable for a home gym.
1. Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Exercise Bike
The Exerpeutic folding exercise bike is one of the best in its category. One area where this model excels is its high-torque crank system and ‘double drive’ transmission. Along with the magnetic tension, this exercise bike provides one of the smoothest and quietest rides from foldable models. The heavy-duty steel frame has a 300-pound weight capacity.
Like most folding exercise bikes, there are eight levels of resistance, which is standard in this class. In addition, the large LCD monitor shows heart rate, duration, and speed—all ideal for tracking your training. When folded, the exercise bike is one of the most compact in this review.
Pros:
- Real value for money
- Compact size
- Precision-balanced flywheel ensures a smooth ride
- Large, cushioned seat
- Transportation wheels
Cons:
- No preset training programs
- It lacks a tablet holder and bottle holder
2. Marcy Foldable Compact Bike For Home Gym
The Marcy folding exercise bike is one of the most compact foldable bikes on the market. Like most compact stationary bikes, it has eight tension levels of magnetic resistance. The LCD screen also shows the standard metrics that most entry-level, cheap exercise bikes provide. Another advantage of this bike is its weight—it only weighs 37 lbs.
This exercise bike is worth considering if you’re looking for a compact and lightweight model. However, it’s good to note that it has a maximum weight limit of 250 lbs. and it is more suited to smaller people.
Pros:
- Compact, foldup design
- Smooth drive belt for a quiet ride
- The sturdy frame is stable when pedaling
Cons:
- No transport wheels
- Display only shows one stat at a time
- The maximum weight is 250 lbs.
3. BARWING Foldable Recumbent Exercise Bike
If you are looking for a foldable recumbent exercise bike, this 3-in-1 model from Barwing is a perfect choice. The high-quality folding bike has a whopping 16 levels of resistance for intense workouts. Additionally, it has resistance bands for upper body workouts. The comfortable padded seat with backrest is suitable for anyone up to 300 lbs.
The best feature of this folding exercise bike is that it is an upright bike, semi-recumbent bike, and recumbent bike all in one compact unit. When folded up, the exercise bike only takes up 1.5 sq. ft. of floor space. Thanks to its recumbent design, it is also a suitable bike for seniors.
Pros:
- 3-in-1 design for varied workouts
- Magnetic resistance with 16 tension settings
- Resistance bands for full-body workouts
- Pulse sensors to monitor heart rate
- Fully adjustable wide seat and handlebars
Cons:
- Takes up floor space in recumbent mode
4. FitDesk Bike Desk 3.0
If you want to get fit while you work, then the FitDesk folding exercise bike is your solution. The intuitive design features a small desk incorporated into the foldable bike. There is space for a tablet or laptop, and the table has a handy storage compartment. This folding desk bike has the basic features you expect from typical folding bikes. There is a digital display, comfortable handlebars, and a comfy seat with a backrest.
One surprising benefit of the FitDesk is that it includes resistance bands to work your upper body while pedaling and watching videos on your tablet.
Pros:
- Adjustable seat and backrest for comfort
- Standard eight resistance levels
- Desk with easy access storage tray
- Quiet operation
Cons:
- It’s impossible to adjust the desk height and angle
5. Xspec Indoor Compact Foldable Exercise Bike
The Xspec folding exercise bike is an affordable piece of home gym equipment if you want to boost cardio health. Thanks to the 16-level magnetic resistance, you can do intense workouts at home. The addition of the tablet holder, wide comfortable seat, and three adjustment levels, make it suitable for most users. In addition, the LCD display shows heart rate, distance, speed, and time.
One of the advantages of this sturdy bike is its compact, stylish design. In addition, the exercise bike folds for easy storage, ideal if you don’t have space in your apartment or small condo.
Pros:
- Lightweight and takes up little space
- Quiet, smooth operation
- Ideal for shorter people
- Adjustable foot straps
- Stylish design
Cons:
- Maximum weight capacity of 220 lbs.
- Not suitable for people over 6 ft.
6. Exerpeutic Gold Heavy Duty Foldable Exercise Bike
The Exerpeutic Gold folding exercise bike is one of the best folding models for tall, heavy people. The extra-wide seat and heavy-duty frame have a maximum capacity of 400 lbs. As standard, there is an 8-stage tension knob with adjustable resistance. Also, the large LCD screen shows speed, calories burned, distance, pulse rate and works as an odometer. In addition, the magnetic resistance ensures a smooth ride for the user.
One advantage of the Exerpeutic Gold foldable bike is its Bluetooth connectivity to connect to fitness apps. You get access to MyCloudFitness basic workout training app. The premium fitness app lets join professional trainers and get access to personalized workout programs. A nice touch is that the resistance adjustment is at the LCD screen, not on the frame.
Pros:
- The best folding fitness bike for tall riders and any body type
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Maximum weight capacity of 400 lbs.
- Non-slip pedals
- Large computer LCD
- Extra-large, comfortable seat
Cons:
- LCD monitor only displays one bit of data at a time
- Not easy to transport
7. XTERRA Fitness FB350 Folding Exercise Bike
The Xterra foldable exercise bike is a good all-rounder when it comes to home gym equipment. The bike’s best features are the seat with comfortable backrest, quiet operation, LCD display, and adjustable resistance. The Fitness FB350 excels in quality with the balanced flywheel and 3-piece pedal crank. As an added advantage, there is an accessory holder for a mobile device.
Compared to the Xterra Fitness FB 150, the FB350 is the superior model. It has a quieter operation than most compact exercise bikes, and it conveniently folds for easy storage.
Pros:
- Comfortable seating with padded lower back pad
- High-quality flywheel
- Extra smooth ride
- Built-in transportation wheels
- Affordable price point
- Easy to set up and use
Cons:
- The LCD screen is a bit clunky
- It’s not possible to adjust the backrest
8. PLENY 3-In-1 Total Body Workout Exercise Bike
The Pleny 3-in-1 foldable exercise bike gives the ultimate indoor exercise experience in small spaces. The folding stationary bike changes from an upright exercise bike to a recumbent foldable bike. The padded flat seat cushion with backrest, side handles, and resistance bands allow for a full-body workout in comfort. In addition, it has 16 levels of resistance—something usually seen on more expensive bikes.
A nice touch of the Pleny 3-in-1 foldable stationary bike is the backlit LCD screen. This allows you to monitor your speed, pulse, RPM, and distance in any indoor conditions. There are also arm resistance bands and leg resistance bands.
Pros:
- Compact and portable design
- Superior features such as 16 magnetic resistance levels
- Oversized seat with handles and backrest
- The seat stays in a flat position
- Transporter wheels
- Tablet holder included
- Excellent LCD screen
Cons:
- You can’t use the pulse monitor in the recumbent position
The Best Features To Look For When Buying A Folding Exercise Bike
If you are thinking about buying a type of indoor bike that folds up, then the frame and storage size are the critical features to consider. Most folding exercise bikes have an “X” frame and are relatively compact when folded. However, it’s worth checking the dimensions to ensure they fit your home.
There are variables in every type of foldable exercise bike that can affect your decision. However, here are some features to look out for:
- Ergonomics—Because of their compact size, folding exercise bikes may not be as comfortable as an upright or recumbent exercise bike. Ensure it has a comfortable seat, handles, and pedals. Also, you must make sure the frame is suitable for your height and weight.
- Budget—Folding exercise bikes tend to be cheaper than stationary bikes, spin bikes, and recumbent bikes. However, the cheapest folding bikes may lack some essential features you require. For example, a heart rate pulse monitor and a high-quality pedal system are a must.
- Additional features—If you want to reach specific fitness goals, look for models with device holders, bottle holders, and multi-function displays. However, it’s good to note that indoor folding bikes have fewer functions than traditional exercise bikes.
Folding Exercise Bikes — General Information And FAQs
What Are The Benefits Of A Stationary Folding Bike?
The two main advantages of a folding exercise bike are cost and storage. Foldable bikes are ideal where you don’t have much space. Also, folding exercise bikes have a lower price tag than other pedaling home gym equipment. A third advantage is that you can improve cardio health with regular workouts.
What Are The Drawbacks Of A Foldable Exercise Bike?
The primary disadvantage of an upright folding bike is that it lacks many of the standard features in non-folding bikes. For example, you may only have an LCD display showing basic stats—heart rate, speed, distance, calories, and RPM. Also, the lack of a large, heavy flywheel in many models means that you don’t get such a smooth ride.
What Are Some Safety Tips When Riding Folding Exercise Bikes?
As with any piece of home gym equipment, safety is first and foremost. You must take care when setting up and putting the bike away. The sturdy metal frame can cause damage if it falls while storing it. Also, it vital to use the correct cycling position to ensure proper posture and minimize the risk of back pain.
What The Difference Between A Recumbent Exercise Bike And An Upright Exercise Bike?
Sitting position is the difference between a recumbent bike and an upright bike. With a recumbent bike, you sit with your legs in front of you. A standard folding exercise bike is like a road bike where you pedal in an upright position.
A recumbent foldable stationary bike has the advantage of sitting in a recumbent position and foldability.
Why Are Folding Exercise Bikes Cheaper Than Non-Folding Exercise Bikes?
A foldable exercise bike has a relatively lightweight frame, making them cheaper than other types of exercise bikes. However, they also tend to have fewer features such as Bluetooth, preset workouts, or interactive workout programs.
Do Folding Exercise Bikes Require A Lot Of Maintenance?
Most types of exercise bikes—folding models included—require little maintenance. The pedal system is in an enclosed chamber, and there are few other moving parts.