The folding exercise bike appeals to those with limited space in their home gyms, who want the ability to stow away the machine after usage to free up the floor. There are many options out there, so we'll help you narrow down your choices so you can find the very best one.
Keep in mind that the expensive bikes out there typically don't fold, so anything that you find that is capable of being folded will be under $500 for the most part.
They're not as sturdy as their more expensive counterparts, but they will still give you a great cardio workout and help you reach your fitness goals.
Here are three solid folding recumbent bikes, all good choices with many positive reviews from customers. Take a look at all of them and decide which one is best for you.
OUR #1 PICK |
OUR #2 PICK |
OUR #3 PICK |
Exerpeutic 400XL |
Marcy ME 709 |
Sunny Health Magnetic |
These three folding upright bikes will give you a good cardio workout and help you get into shape. All of these are great options for you.
OUR #1 PICK |
OUR #2 PICK |
OUR #3 PICK |
Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic |
Marcy Foldable Upright |
Sunny Health Upright |
Absolutely. Folding bikes serve a very specific purpose, and that is to provide a compact, space-friendly, portable, low cost option for those who don't want or need one of the larger exercise bikes for one reason or another.
Are they going to be as sturdy as their larger, heavier non-folding counterparts? Of course they aren't...and you wouldn't expect them to be.
They also don't typically have many bells and whistles...but at these price levels, again you wouldn't expect them to. You will still find some resistance levels, basic computers showing you your workout metrics, transport wheels and other extras.
They are great for those who have very limited space and need to stow away the folding bike after a workout, either in a closet, against the wall or under a bed.
Another real advantage is portability. Although not the lightest things you will ever carry, at about 35-50 lbs. you can certainly move a folding exercise bike from one room to another, or bring it with you to a friend's house or even on vacation.
Try doing that with your typical upright or recumbent bike...it's not going to happen.
Let's summarize the benefits and drawbacks for you to help you make a more informed decision...
Folding Exercise Bike Benefits
Folding Exercise Bike Drawbacks
So weigh the pros and cons and decide if a folding exercise bike makes sense for you. Know that you can still get a great cardio workout, burn calories and tone up your muscles, whether you choose a folding or a non-folding bike.
The models above are going to be the best folding recumbent and upright exercise bikes for your gym. You can see all of the specs, special pricing and information about each of them in our reviews and on the best price site.
If available, we recommend an extended warranty as it gives you added protection and it's usually not that expensive.
Coverage is not very extensive on lower priced exercise equipment, so an additional 2 or 3 year plan can be a life saver if something goes wrong down the road.
If you plan on really hitting it hard day in and day out, or there are multiple users, you'll probably be better served with one of our best exercise bikes in higher price categories.
The folding exercise bikes down typically stand up to very heavy use. One of the more compact mid-priced models may be a better option in that case.
As we mentioned, the pricier models don't necessarily fold, but they tend to be much sturdier and will stand up better over time. Most have transport wheels that make it easier to move them around in your home gym, so just choose one that is more compact in size.
UPDATE: December Exercise Bike Sales are going on now!
Best Bikes For 2024
Best Uprights & Recumbents
Best Indoor Cycling Bikes
Best Minis/Under Desk
Upright Bikes
Recumbent Bikes
Find the right bike at the best price!
How to make the time spent exercising fun!
Rave or rant about the exercise bike you purchased online or used at the gym.