Tuesday, March 21st
2023 Exercise Bike Reviews
ProForm
- Options include upright, recumbent, and elliptical-bike hybrid models
- Affordable options that don't compromise on features
- Good warranty coverage
- Access to live and on-demand classes
ProForm is the partner brand to NordicTrack: you can think of it as the little sister of the pair, not quite as fancy but still with features to consider. Both are a part of the ICON Health and Fitness group, and you'll see a lot of similarities between the two online stores.
Superior value for the money
ProForm has some of the best values in exercise bikes on the market. For example, consider the 440 ES. Priced at $699, this recumbent model delivers 25 levels of Silent Magnetic Resistance, generous warranty coverage of 10 years on the frame and a year on parts and labor, and an easy-to-read backlit display. The highest end of the price spectrum at ProForm is represented by the Studio Bike Pro 22, selling for $1499. You'll get a huge 22" touchscreen that swivels (for easier viewing of on-demand, non-cycling workouts), a free year of iFit Family, and both seat and handlebars can be adjusted to match your unique physiology. Comparable bikes from other companies usually sell for at least $1000 more: why spend that if you don't have to?
On-demand and live workouts optional but available
Another great feature of ProForm bikes: they're all compatible with the iFit platform, which lets you access live and on-demand workouts. You'll get a free one-month membership trial, but after that you'll pay $180 per year if you want to keep using the service. (It's optional: you can continue to ride using all of the non-membership capabilities of the bike with no problem.) It's worth keeping, though: from youngest to oldest, your family members can do weight training, yoga classes, or get a good stretch - but we recommend you choose a bike with a movable screen for easier viewing, if you don't plan on using your own tablet or smartphone instead.
Equipment overview:
- Type of exercise bikes: Upright, studio, recumbent, hybrid
- Price range: $599 to $1499
- Different models: 6
- Can stream live/pre-recorded workouts: Yes
- Financing available: Yes
- Weight capacity: 250 lbs. to 350 lbs., depending on model
- Return policy: 30 days, buyer pays $250 in return shipping fees
- Warranty: 5-10 year frame, 90-days to 2 years parts, 90 days to 1 year labor, varies by model
- Shipping: Free
No incline/decline rides
ProForm gets edged out slightly by NordicTrack because, according to the ever-so-helpful representative we got on live chat, only NordicTrack bikes have the option of incline/decline rides. That's a pretty small factor, but she (the rep) actually has a NT bike and said she thinks the extra money is worth the feature. You may think otherwise, but it's good to know that's what you're paying for when comparing the top two models between ProForm and NordicTrack.
Check out reviews from previous customers
This company aims to be customer-friendly, with free shipping on all exercise bikes and warranty policies that go beyond many of their rivals. ICON has an "A+" from the Better Business Bureau, which means they do a solid job of responding to any issues as they come up. But, if you need more convincing, we encourage you to read the reviews under any bike that interests you: they're unfiltered, which is unusual (but a good thing!), and you might get some insights from actual users about what to expect from your equipment.
Top pick for budget-friendly, durable exercise bikes
If NordicTrack bikes are priced just beyond your reach, don't hesitate to get one from ProForm. You'll get a terrific workout, your bike will have warranty coverage for a long time, and you won't have to break the bank to pay for it. You're going to love the iFit classes, if you choose to use them, and your overall experience with this company is likely to be a good one. ProForm is one of our favorite budget-friendly places to get a reliable exercise bike.
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Where Can You Find the Best Exercise Bikes?
Fitness equipment is more popular now than ever, with so many people working, learning and doing just about everything from home. It can be challenging to find anything in stock near you, with no idea of when your preferred exercise bike will be available to buy.
Naturally, that's where the internet comes in, making it a lot easier to get the type of bike you want most. Looking for live and on-demand fitness classes on a machine that automatically increases and decreases resistance - or that even allows a coach to remotely shift your settings to give you an extra push (or a break!)? Shopping online gives you access to not just one company but several that offer that boutique-style workout experience.
Exercise Bike FAQ
Continued from above...
Or, maybe your doctor has told you that you can't do high-impact exercise anymore, but you still need something to stay healthy. Recumbent bikes to the rescue! There are plenty of models available from internet retailers, from basic models under $500 to high-tech designs with plenty of features for over $2,000.
There are even exercise bikes designed for use under your desk or with a tabletop/desk built in: no more using work as your excuse for not working out! Your coworkers can get in on the fun if you choose a model that has three bikes at the same round table, too.
It's easy to feel overwhelmed when you start your search for the exercise bike that's right for you. Studio style? Recumbent? Touchscreen or basic console? Fortunately, there are several criteria you can use to narrow down your options and find something that fits:
- Number of Exercise Bikes. How many models does the retailer sell? The more bikes in their inventory, the more likely it is that one of them will have the features you're looking for - and that it will be in stock when you're ready to buy.
- Features. Think about what features are most important to you when using your fitness equipment. Is it connectivity with your smartwatch or fitness apps? A weight capacity that accommodates each member of your household? Interactive displays with games and leaderboards to keep you motivated? It's not impossible to get a bike with everything you want, if you know what's on your must-have list.
- Value. Is the exercise bike you're considering a good value for the money? That's not just a matter of price: some lower-end models actually offer a lot, while some of the most expensive models don't give you nearly what you'd expect.
- Customer-Friendly Policies. Can you get a free trial with your exercise bike? How long do you have to return it if it's not working out? Is delivery free and/or will it include professional set-up? How about warranty coverage?
- Reputation. It's a good idea to consider what customers have said about the particular bike you want and the company itself. Can you count on getting fast, friendly help from the customer service department if anything goes wrong? Even the most promising warranties aren't worth much if the retailer doesn't follow through on them.
TopConsumerReviews.com has evaluated and ranked the best online retailers of exercise bikes available today. We're confident that this information will help you get the indoor ride you've been hoping for!
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