A bike is no more a simple machine with two wheels and a handlebar. It’s 2020 now, and it has undergone massive changes with features like app support, Bluetooth functionality, and a handy touchscreen display at the front of the screen. Yes, the new-age bike allows you to do a lot more than plain old cycling.
Most of the exercise bikes treat the built-in screen differently. For example, in the case of the Peloton Bike, the screen is the only point of access between the cycle and you. However, it’s not the same case with other bikes. Some only go as far as showing you your vitals and the amount of distance covered, etc., while others let you take virtual spinning classes in the mountains of Peru or in the countryside of Germany. In short, the options are many.
So, if you are looking for an exercise bike with a built-in screen, here are a few of our top recommendations. But before that,
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1. Peloton Bike
When it comes to exercise bikes with built-in screens, perhaps the Pelton Bike is one of the most popular bikes. It bundles a 21.5-inch HD touchscreen display at the front of the bike, and as noted earlier, this is the primary access pint of the bike. From displaying basic stats like time, distance, RPM, load, calories, and heart rate, to letting you choose your spinning classes, this screen lets you do a lot. What’s more, it sweatproof. It’s a stylish and sleek bike that can accommodate riders of all shapes and sizes.
And it doesn’t end there. This bike is quite capable. For starters, you can pick the spinning classes as per the difficulty level you are comfortable with. At the same time, you can see how your fellow Peloton Bike riders are doing on the leadership board. Cool right?
At the same time, the touchscreen has Bluetooth, and you can either connect your gym earphones or a Bluetooth speaker to it. The latter seems like a reasonable solution, as the speakers of the bike fall on the weaker side.
The bike is strong and sturdy, and the pedals are sport Look Delta compatible pedal clips to lock your trainer in place. It’s also quite, and you don’t have to worry about waking up your whole household as you cycle.
The Peloton library is massive and has a horde of rides and classes, including scenic rides and timed rides.
But at the end of the day, do note that this bike comes with a significant up-front cost, be it buying one of the Peloton-branded cycling shoes, bike mats, heart rate monitor, or subscribing to the Peloton app which costs around $39/month.
2. Tacx Neo Bike Smart
If you are looking for a sharp and futuristic looking bike, the Tacx Neo Bike Smart is the one for you. This one is a highly flexible bike that caters to a wide range of trainees and fitness levels. One of its primary highlights is its precision and its noise-less spin. The dedicated screen at the front will show you all the stats like speed, RPM, and the direction you are moving.
Unlike the Peloton bike, you do not need a dedicated app for the Tacx Neo Bike Smart bike and is compatible with apps like Zwift or the Wattbike Atom. The screen may not be as glamorous as the Peloton bike. However, let that not deter you for this smart exercise bike packs a lot.
For starters, you switch between the gears as per your preference and exercise routines. The bikes come with three chainrings. The best part is that the different sets of teeth and the sprockets simulate a real road-like experience. Now, that’s something. And it doesn’t end there. When you drop a gear, the bike even gives a gentle vibration.
3. Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike
The Schwinn IC4 is priced at less than $1,000 and makes for a good pick if you are looking for an affordable version of the Peloton Bike. The crux of this bike is that it connects to a variety of apps over Bluetooth, including the Peloton app. It packs a 40-pound flywheel and lets you switch between some 100 resistance levels. And like its counterparts above, it’s noiseless. The built-in LCD screen can be paired over Bluetooth and also connects to apps like Zwift.
As you may have expected, the screen alerts you of statuses like distance traveled and calories burned, thus letting you be on top of your stats.
This bike gives you the option to switch between the standard toe cages and SPD cleats, depending on your preference. At the same time, it bundles several extras for cross-training such as dumbells, Bluetooth heartrate armband, etc.
The 40-pound flywheel provides enough resistance, and the ability to switch between 100 different levels makes it flexible for a wide variety of riders. It comfortable and sturdy and can take weight up to 330 lbs.
4. NordicTrack Commercial Studio Cycle S15i
Another bike that balances the looks and functionality is the NordicTrack Commercial Studio Cycle S15i. It’s a compact and stylish bike and ships with a 22-inch smart HD touchscreen at the front. The S15i also comes with a complimentary one-year subscription to the iFit fitness streaming service, something which will surely keep your costs down a bit initially.
The 44 lb flywheel is quiet and provides the right amount of resistance. Here resistance will change as per the terrain you are cycling in or how your trainer sees fit. You can take up live-lessons or on-demand lessons via the app to motivate you to stay fit. The live-lessons will make the journey less monotonous.
Most of the fittings can be customizable, including the handlebars, display, and seat. And yeah, this bike also ships with two three-pound weights.
The S15i packs quality speakers, and you will be able to hear both vocals and the background music clearly, something which is an issue with the Peloton Bike. Or, you can connect your earphones and ride away to glory.
Most of the controls can be done via the touchscreen, which adds to the experience.
Never Stop
With most of us locked indoors, indoor exercising is the only way to go forward. Unfortunately, most modern-day exercise bikes, especially, the connected bikes do not come cheap, and most of them cost north of $1,000. Hence, be certain which feature you want the most on your bike, before you hit the Buy button.
Last updated on 02 February, 2022
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