Best Recumbent Bike for Seniors

Ryan Hansen Avatar

Written by:

Updated 11:34 pm

The Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike is a highly reliable exercise recumbent bike that has it all. With 29 individual workout programs and 25 different resistance levels, this exercise bike will keep you in shape without all the added stress on your joints or the need to travel to a gym. So, what makes it one of the best exercise equipment? Let’s find out in this guide.

Top 5 Best Recumbent Bike for Seniors Compared

 #1  Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike

Award: Best Recumbent Bike for Seniors

WHY WE LIKE IT: The Schwinn 270 exercise bike is the Cadillac of recumbent bikes. It comes with a ton of bells and whistles, including Bluetooth connectivity, helpful LCD display, in-console speakers, three-speed fan and USB charging functionality. The expensive price tag is well worth it if you want these extra features.

[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]

  • Tons of customizable options
  • Plenty of extra features
  • Super comfortable

[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]

[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]

  • Console & handlebars not adjustable
  • Display may be too bright
  • Expensive

[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]

Resistance Levels 10/10
​The Schwinn 270 features 25 different tension levels, making it the most customizable exercise bike for seniors on our list. With this many levels, you get full control over how hard you want to ride, whether that be casual or intense.

Related: Also check the best medicine balls in the market.

The bike also features a high-speed and high inertia flywheel, both of which give you an extra smooth and silent workout. This is perfect for someone who wants to workout in quiet and doesn’t want to bother others.

Workout Programs 10/10
​While you’ll always simply pedal in place as you would with any other recumbent bike, you get the option of mixing things up with Schwinn’s 29 pre-loaded workout programs.

As you use these workout programs, you’ll be able to track your metrics on the bike’s LCD screen/display, including your heart rate. You can also use Bluetooth to connect your phone to the RideSocial or Schwinn Trainer apps to track how well you’re doing.”

Weight Capacity 9.5/10
​The Schwinn 270 can handle weights of up to 300 pounds. This weight capacity is the industry standard for recumbent bikes.

While sitting in the seat, you get a few different comfort features that will help you stay on the bike for longer. The seat itself is padded and ventilated so you don’t get too sweaty. You can also adjust the seat forward and backward to fit your height. Unfortunately, the console and handlebars themselves aren’t adjustable.

Cost 9/10
This exercise bike is one of the more expensive models on our list. At the time of our review, the Schwinn 270 cost around $550. This makes sense because it offers the widest variety of extra features and different modes. However, with this higher cost, you also get a durable and reliable recumbent bike.

 #2 Nautilus R614

Award: Best Magnetic Recumbent Bike

WHY WE LIKE IT: The Nautilus R614 is a lightweight but strong recumbent bike for seniors that provides versatility and diversity in the way you can work out with it. With an easy-to-use control panel and goal tracking, you can track how much you’re improving with your fitness goals.

[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]

  • Helpful goal tracking feature
  • Lots of programs and tension levels
  • Easy-to-use control panel

[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]

[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]

  • LCD isn’t backlit
  • Seat isn’t padded
  • Foot straps don’t work with big feet

[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]

Resistance Levels 10/10
​​With 20 different magnetic resistance levels, you’ll be able to customize your workout intensity to a level with which you’ll be comfortable. You also won’t have to limit anyone else who wants to use the bike depending on your preferences.

Related: In case you like squats, you may want to learn about the best squat workout tools.

The Nautilus’s high-speed and high-inertia drive system make it easier for you to get started with your workout, no matter what resistance level you’ve selected.

Workout Programs 10/10
​​You get 22 different workout programs with this recumbent exercise bike, which is excellent for days when you want to mix things up. These workout programs included 9 profile workouts, 8 heart rate control workouts, 2 customizable workouts, 2 fitness tests and 1 quick start program.

The bike also includes a Goal Track feature that allows you to track all of your workouts and see how you improve over time. This is super helpful if you are working toward a goal weight.

Weight Capacity 9.5/10
​​Like most other recumbent bikes for seniors, the Nautilus R614 can hold weights up to 300 pounds. The seat and backrest unfortunately aren’t padded, but they are well ventilated in their design. You can easily add a cushion to the seat, but be aware that cushions can more easily soak up and retain sweat.

The seat and console are both adjustable to account for your height, which is also very helpful if you are taller or shorter than the average person.

Cost 9/10
With added features like Bluetooth connectivity, media shelf/tray and USB charging port, you might expect this exercise bike to be super expensive. Fortunately, it falls squarely in the mid-range category for cost. At the time of our review, the Nautilus cost around $399.

 #3  Schwinn 230

Award: Best Recumbent Bike Under $500

WHY WE LIKE IT: The Schwinn 230 is the Schwinn 270’s little sibling, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s not as good! With a durable and adjustable design, this bike is great for anyone who wants more control over their workouts.  If you’re looking for the best way to relax after a long workout, check out the best power lift recliner on the market.

[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]

  • USB port
  • Built-in sound system
  • Lots of workout options

[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]

[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]

  • Seat may be uncomfortable to some
  • Not great for taller people
  • Lighter flywheel

[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]

Resistance Levels 10/10
​​​The Schwinn 230 offers 20 different resistance levels. While this is not as much as the more feature-rich 270, it’s still much more than many bikes on the market. With this many levels, you can choose exactly how hard you want to work out.

Unfortunately, the 230 doesn’t offer a very heavy weight flywheel, which some users may notice. It provides enough resistance for a good cardio workout, but if you’re looking for something more intense, you might want to consider the 270.

Workout Programs 10/10
​If you don’t want to choose every step of your workout, you can opt to use one of this bike’s 22 different workout programs. Choose between 9 profile workouts, 8 heart rate control programs, 2 fitness tests and 1 quick start program from the control panel.

Like many other recumbent bikes on our list, you can set and track goals on this workout bike. The console even includes a USB port that you can use with a USB drive to store more workout data for better tracking.

Weight Capacity 9.5/10
​​​The Schwinn 230 can easily handle weights up to 300 pounds. The seats are adjustable to a point, but taller people will probably have a more difficult time finding a setting that works for them. We also found the seat to be a little more uncomfortable than other recumbent bikes, so you might want to consider adding a cushion for extended periods of use.

Cost 9/10
At the time of our review, the Schwinn 230 cost $429, which is in the mid-range category. While more expensive than other bikes, it includes plenty of features that cheaper options don’t. When you consider these extra features and the durable design, we think the cost is well worth it.

 #4  ProForm 325 CSX

Award: Best Dual Recumbent Bike for Seniors

WHY WE LIKE IT: The ProForm 325 CSX is very similar to the Schwinn 230, while offering plenty of standout features. It operates quietly but still provides a healthy workout. You can also track your heartrate via chest strap instead of solely through the handlebar sensors, which can be hard to find in recumbent bikes.

[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]

  • Padded seat
  • Quiet operation
  • Chest strap compatibility

[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]

[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]

  • No sensors on seat handlebars
  • Chest strap not included
  • Heavier than other models

[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]

Resistance Levels 10/10
​​​​You get a total of 20 different tension levels with this recumbent exercise bike, which definitely puts it in the top tier for this kind of workout equipment. You get to choose just how hard it is to pedal the bike without a worry as to whether you’ll be able to find a resistance that is just right.

There are plenty of lighter settings, which are perfect for seniors. You also get tons of heavier settings, which are great for seniors who want to get more intense with their workouts.

Workout Programs 10/10
​You can choose between 22 different pre-loaded workout programs between two categories: Tempo and Interval. The Tempo workouts are fast-paced exercises with no breaks whereas the Interval workouts feature more intense exercises with breaks in between. One of the best features here is the ability to use a heart rate chest strap rather than rely solely on handlebar sensors.

You can select these workouts using the easy-to-use console, which also includes a sound system and fan. You’ll also get the ability to connect the bike to any Bluetooth capable devices.

Weight Capacity 9.5/10
​​​​This recumbent bike for seniors can seat up to 300 pounds of weight without any problems. It features a wide seat with comfortable and durable padding, which is really a standout feature. The seat is adjustable for height, but the backrest, unfortunately, isn’t.

Cost 9/10
The ProForm cost around $400 when we reviewed it. This price puts in in the mid-range category. If you have a little extra to spend on your bike, you definitely won’t regret getting all the extra features that come with this exercise bike.

 #5  XTERRA SB2.5r

Award: Best Dual Recumbent Bike for Seniors

WHY WE LIKE IT: The XTERRA SB2.5r is a well-balanced recumbent bike for seniors that’s perfect for anyone looking to get into more stationary exercise options. It features tons of different workout programs and a heavy-duty flywheel for more intense workouts.

[su_row]
[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Pros” box_color=”#4DB227″ radius=”0″]
[su_list icon=”icon: check” icon_color=”#4DB227″]

  • Large color display
  • Heavy duty flywheel
  • Built-in MP3 player

[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]

[su_column size=”1/2″][su_box title=”Cons” box_color=”#B2B9C3″ radius=”0″][su_list icon=”icon: ban” icon_color=”#B2B9C3″]

  • Button press beep is loud
  • Lower tension levels too low
  • Display can be hard to read

[/su_list][/su_box][/su_column]
[/su_row]

Resistance Levels 10/10
​The XTERRA SB2.5r features a total of 24 tension levels. Unfortunately, the lower and higher end of these tension levels can be too little or too much, respectively. This is especially true if you’re a senior.

Workout Programs 10/10
​You also get 24 different workout modes with this recumbent bike. You get 12 preset programs, 1 body fat program, 1 watt, 4 custom slots, 4 heart rate modes and 1 manual mode. With this kind of variety, you can customize your workouts and find new, different ways to exercise on a daily basis.

You can change your workout modes using the LCD control panel. This bike’s control panel isn’t as easy to use as other bikes and sometimes the codes on the display can be difficult to read.

Weight Capacity 9/10
​​​​​The XTERRA can only hold up to 265 pounds, which isn’t as much as other bikes. However, this is still enough to carry most adults. The padded seat is comfortable enough and fully adjustable, to boot.

Cost 9/10
This recumbent bike falls solidly in the mid-range cost category. AT the time of our testing and review the XTERRA cost around $315. While there are certainly bikes out there that are more and less expensive than this one, the XTERRA SB2.5r is a great choice for the money.”

Recumbent VS. Upright Exercise Bikes

Stationary exercise bikes are the perfect option for seniors who can’t get out of the house as often as other people. They’re also great for seniors because they have lower impact on joints. However, there are two different kinds of stationary bikes to consider: recumbent vs upright. Which is better for seniors and why?

The short answer is recumbent bikes are and will always be better for seniors (R) than upright bikes. Recumbent bikes are easier to get on and are often much more comfortable for longer periods of time. They’re also easier on your lower back and gentler on all of your joints.

Recumbent bikes are also generally safer to use for seniors since you cannot stand up on the pedals. This minimizes the chances of falling off the bike during exercise or when getting on and off the machine.

How We Reviewed the Recumbent Exercise Bikes for Seniors

The devil is in the details folks.

  • Resistance Levels – Customizable Resistance is Key
    The number of resistance levels your recumbent bike provides is one of the most important considerations you can make during the purchasing process. The number of levels determines how much versatility you have in your workouts. The best recumbent bikes for seniors will give you 20+ resistance levels, but there are many that only offer 5 to 8 levels.When you have a greater variety of tension levels, you can go as difficult or easy as you’d like, which is an important distinction for seniors. On some days, it may be easier to exercise on the lower levels. On others, you may want to amp it up a little more. More levels mean more flexibility.
  • Workout Programs – More Programs Means Better Exercise
    More recent recumbent bikes are becoming more advanced in technology. The top-of-the-line models offer a wide variety of preset workout programs. These workout programs range from heart rate options to body fat burning workouts. The more workout programs you have available, the more variety you can bring to your daily workouts. Many recumbent bikes also have goal tracking settings so you can keep track of your improvement over the course of your workouts.
  • Weight Capacity – Higher Capacity is Better
    All recumbent exercise bikes have a limited weight capacity. The industry standard ranges from 250-300 pounds. Some models have higher weight capacities, but you’ll want to try to avoid models that have lower weight limits than 250 pounds. Another thing to consider when thinking about weight capacity is the adjustability of the seat and handlebars. The best recumbent bikes feature fully adjustable, and not to mention comfortable seats and adjustable handlebars to accommodate all body shapes and sizes.
  • Cost – Price Sweetspot
    Many seniors are on a limited budget, so it’s important to consider how much your recumbent bike costs. They can range anywhere from $150 to $1000. Take some time to consider how much you’re willing to spend before clicking buy or swiping your card.

However, you also need to consider what kind of features you get at each price range. More expensive models will offer the full range of preset workout programs, resistance levels and extra features like Bluetooth and sound systems. Another popular model worth taking a look at is the Exerpeutic 900XL 300 lbs. Weight Capacity Recumbent Exercise Bike with a hand pulse that offers heart rate monitoring.

Read More: Connected Cycle Pedals

Best Recumbent Bike for Seniors FAQ

What is the importance of a heart rate monitor during exercise?

Being aware of your heart rate during exercise is all about improving your oxygen flow to your body’s tissues. Weight loss alongside improved fitness is easier to achieve with calculated results in mind. As a result of your efforts, your body responds by using oxygen more efficiently than before. Tracking your heart rate is a clear way of planning your routines around improving oxygen flow.

Ryan Hansen Avatar

Learn More About Exercise Equipment