Exercise bikes – how to choose the right one?

An exercise bike is the easiest way to get regular cardio exercise at home: you can pedal anytime, regardless of the weather, set your own pace, and the workout is easy on your joints.

We offer classic magnetic exercise bikes, programmable “ergometers”, comfortable recumbent bikes, compact X-Bikes and even mini exercise bikes that can be stored under a desk.

What type of exercise bike is right for you?

A) Classic exercise bike (recreational pedalling)

For undemanding home cardio, a few times a week, without complications. Typically magnetic resistance, basic computer, quiet belt drive.

BC32 magnetic exercise bike (8 resistance levels, 4.5 kg flywheel, 110 kg weight capacity)
Brother BC1204 Magnetic Exercise Bike (8 resistance levels, 5 kg flywheel, belt drive, 110 kg weight capacity)

B) Programmable exercise bike (more training, more control)

When you want programmes, heart rate monitoring, watts and a “training mode”, not just free pedalling.

BC84E ergometric (programmable) exercise bike (16 resistance levels, 9 kg flywheel, 20 programmes, 150 kg weight capacity, mains power supply)

C) Foldable exercise bike (X-Bike) – when space is an issue

Ideal for apartments: fold it up after training, often has a “more upright vs. more reclined” mode.

MERACH S15 B2 XBike 4v1 (foldable, 16 resistance levels, 136 kg weight capacity, Bluetooth, arm/back training)
MERACH S15 XBike 4-in-1 (another variant of the same series)

D) Recumbent exercise bike – maximum comfort

For your back, rehabilitation, seniors, or when you want a comfortable seat with back support.

MERACH S08B1 Recumbent (8 resistance levels, Bluetooth, app compatibility, 136 kg weight capacity)
MERACH S23B1 Recumbent (8 resistance levels, max. resistance up to 32 kg, heart rate sensors, weight capacity 159 kg)

E) Mini exercise bike – exercise while working/watching TV

When you want to exercise your legs (and often your arms) without a large machine.

MERACH S04B1 Mini Exercise Bike (mini exercise bike) (16 levels of magnetic resistance, load capacity 127 kg, MERACH app)

Key specifications

1) Type of exercise bike = comfort and use

First, choose the type of exercise bike: classic, programmable, folding, recumbent or mini. This will determine your comfort, space requirements and training options.

2) Resistance and its range (and how many levels it has)

Basic: often 8 levels (e.g. BC32, BC1204, S08B1, S23B1)
more “training control”: 16 levels (BC84E, S15 B2, S04B1)
Some models also offer very fine resistance adjustment (e.g. S26B2 offers a range of 0–100 and quiet operation).

3) Flywheel (smooth pedalling)

Generally speaking, the heavier the flywheel, the smoother and more natural the pedalling – this is most noticeable on classic exercise bikes.
Examples: BC32 (4.5 kg), BC1204 (5 kg), BC84E (9 kg).

4) Weight capacity and recommended height

It is better to choose a weight capacity with a margin. Programmable and recumbent exercise bikes often have a higher weight capacity and a more robust construction. (e.g. BC84E 150 kg, S23B1 159 kg).

5) Ergonomics and adjustability

Saddle (height + adjustment), handlebars, backrest (for recumbent bikes), and seat comfort, if applicable.

6) Motivation: programmes / Bluetooth / apps

If you know you enjoy “riding according to a training plan”, look for programmes (BC84E) or connectivity with apps.

Quick recommendations as needed

✔ I mainly want a simple home exercise bike (at a reasonable price):

BC32 or BC1204

✔ I want to train “properly” and have programmes + watts:

BC84E

✔ I have limited space / I want to store the exercise bike:

MERACH S15 B2 XBike (foldable)

✔ My back hurts / I want the most comfortable seat:

MERACH S08B1 or S23B1 (recumbent exercise bikes)

✔ I want to exercise while working or watching television (minimum space):

MERACH S04B1 mini exercise bike

FAQ – frequently asked questions

Is the exercise bike suitable for beginners?
Yes – if you choose a comfortable seat, reasonable weight capacity and resistance that can be adjusted smoothly.

Which is better: 8 or 16 resistance levels?
8 is sufficient for recreational cycling. 16 provides finer load “tuning” and often better training modes.
When does a recumbent exercise bike make sense?
When you want back support, comfort and a gentler riding position (often for rehabilitation, seniors or those with back problems).

What should you look out for in your flat?
Mainly the dimensions and storability (X-Bike), or the possibility of moving it (wheels) and quiet operation.