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Doing a cardio workout at home is one of the best ways to bridge trips to the gym or other exercise classes.
And folding bikes can make that workout routine a lot more effective without causing trouble at home with large training equipment taking up too much space.
The problem with a lot of the folding exercise bikes is that they are too flimsy or have limited features.
You definitely want to avoid one of these collapsing underneath you.
So, as a fitness trainer, I teamed up with a few colleagues at TotalShape and spent 3 months testing out 37 different models to come up with this list of best folding exercise bikes.
The Best Folding Exercise Bikes
- Best Overall Folding Exercise Bike: BulbHead 2in1 Folding Bike Slim Cycle
- Cheapest Folding Exercise Bike: Xterra Fitness FB150 Folding Exercise Bike
- Most Durable Folding Bike for Exercising: Exerpeutic Gold 500 XLS
- Best Lightweight Folding Exercise Bike: Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic
- Most Comfortable Foldable Bike for Exercising: Exerpeutic Gold 500 XLS
- Best Compact Foldable Exercise Bike: Marcy Folding Exercise Bike ns654
Our Top Folding Exercise Bikes (February 2025)
1 - BulbHead 2in1 Folding Bike Slim Cycle
- Dimensions : No
- Maintenance : Easy
- Design : Foldable, recline or upright positions
- Warranty : No
- Premium materials : Thick, extra-wide seat cushion
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy to adjust tension control knob with 8 settings
- Includes arm resistance bands for a full body workout
- Allows for upright and recumbent body positions
- Simple assembly process to get you training quickly
Cons
- Limited adjustability for taller athletes
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those seeking an upright & recumbent option
- Individuals who want a full-body workout
Who is it not for?
- Taller athletes
Final Verdict
A versatile bike providing both upright and recumbent options with arm resistance bands. Smooth resistance transitions make it effective for cardio training.
Among the best exercise bikes we tested, the BulbHead foldable exercise bike came up as our top choice as it combines both an upright and recumbent exercise bike. Anyone with back problems will know how valuable a good backrest can be.
We also liked the magnetic resistance system, which provides very smooth transitions. And the highest setting is intense enough to hit those higher heart rate zones.
- Weight limit: 300 lbs
- Folded dimensions: 53"H, 21"W, 14"D
The only downside is that the seat adjustments are limited, which might not suit a taller person.
2 - Xterra Fitness FB150 Folding Exercise Bike
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Light bike weight design makes it easier to move out of the way
- Handles include pulse sensors to measure your heart rate
- Easily adjusted seat height range for taller people
Cons
- Just missing a tablet or smartphone holder
This is the entry-level Xterra bike, but you still get pulse monitoring grips to see your heart rate on the display despite the affordable price -- just a few reasons why we placed it high on this list of best exercise bikes.
The eight levels of resistance transition smoothly to avoid disruptions to your training routine, regardless of fitness levels.
It’s also ideal if you have limited storage space and don’t fancy pulling and dragging a heavy bike out of the closet, as the bike weight is only 32 pounds.
- Weight limit: 225 lbs limit
- Folded dimensions: 51"H, 28"W, 18"D
One thing we’d like to see added is some form of tablet or smartphone holder so you can watch some TV shows while you’re exercising. But for a home fitness routine, this lightweight bike is definitely worth the try.
3 - Marcy Folding Upright Exercise Bike ns654
- Dimensions : No
- Maintenance : Easy
- Design : Compact, foldable
- Warranty : Limited warranty
- Premium materials : Steel construction
Pros and Cons
Pros
- 8 levels of smooth resistance transitions between different settings
- Good adjustment options for the seat
- Comes with built-in transport wheels for easy storage
Cons
- Doesn’t provide heart rate on the LCD display
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Taller athletes
- Those seeking a compact yet effective bike
Who is it not for?
- Users needing heart rate monitoring
Final Verdict
Compact yet adjustable for a range of fitness levels with built-in wheels for easy storage. Though lacking a heart rate monitor, it's still suitable for most cardio workouts.
This Marcy foldable exercise bike is possibly one of the most compact ones we found, but it still delivers plenty of height adjustment for taller athletes.
The eight levels of resistance bring you to a tough enough intensity to significantly boost your fitness level.
- Weight capacity: 250 lbs limit
- Folded dimensions: 52"H, 18"W, 18"D
When you’re comparing this to the above options, make sure you consider that this one doesn’t have a pulse or heart rate monitor.
4 - Exerpeutic Gold 500 XLS
- Dimensions : 39" x 26.4" x 48.4" (approx.)
- Maintenance : Easy
- Design : Upright, foldable
- Warranty : 1-year frame warranty
- Premium materials : Alloy steel
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Convenient wheels on the front frame make moving it a lot easier
- Larger than standard seat cushion provides more comfort
- Great upper weight limit for heavier people
Cons
- It’s quite heavy for a foldable bike
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Heavier athletes
- Those prioritizing comfort
Who is it not for?
- Users needing lighter equipment
Final Verdict
A durable bike with a high weight limit and a comfortable, padded seat. Though heavier, its wheels make it easier to store and move.
The Exerpeutic folding magnetic upright bike is probably the one with the highest weight capacity of 400 pounds. It may not be the best folding exercise bike on this list, but it surely is a top contender and is one of the best.
It also has a larger padded seat cushion than you’d find on most other indoor exercise bike choices, thus we ranked it high on this best exercise bikes list.
We also liked that the magnetic resistance knob is at the top of the display for easier access.
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs limit
- Folded dimensions: 58"H, 25"W, 26"D
Just keep in mind that it’s quite a heavy machine, but it does have wheels built-in to make moving it easier.
5 - Xterra Fitness FB350 Folding Exercise Bike
- Dimensions : 21" x 40.5" x 48" (assembled)
- Maintenance : Easy
- Design : Foldable, X-frame
- Warranty : 1 Year Frame, 90 Days Brakes, 90 Days Parts
- Premium materials : Alloy steel
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Folds easily into a compact frame for practical storage
- Decent screen tracks plenty of exercise data
- Comes with an added seat back for a recumbent position
Cons
- The highest resistance might not be strong enough for some athletes
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those wanting a recumbent position
- Users with limited storage space
Who is it not for?
- Athletes needing higher resistance levels
Final Verdict
A foldable and comfortable bike offering good data tracking with an added backrest. Some may find its highest resistance insufficient for intense workouts.
Here’s a more advanced Xterra stationary bike for home gyms that will get you into a recumbent position if needed. The seat and backrest are comfortable, which makes focusing on your training a bit easier.
The display is also easy to read with information about calories burned, distance, pulse, and speed.
- Weight limit: 225 lbs limit
- Folded dimensions: 51"H, 20"W, 21"D
We just thought that the highest intensity setting wasn’t as strong as most other models we tried out.
6 - ShareVgo Bluetooth Smart Folding Bike
- Dimensions : 28" x 22" x 55"
- Maintenance : Easy
- Design : Smart, foldable, X-frame
- Warranty : 90 days (returns and replacements)
- Premium materials : Alloy steel, rubber
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Integrates with a fitness app to keep track of your training data
- Smooth resistance transition across the 8 settings
- There’s a convenient tablet holder so you can watch your favorite shows
Cons
- The digital display is quite small
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Tech enthusiasts
- Those who want digital progress tracking
Who is it not for?
- Users who need a larger display
Final Verdict
With seamless app integration, this bike provides useful fitness data tracking. Despite a small display, it remains an attractive option for tech-savvy individuals.
This magnetic upright exercise bike has convenient handles attached to the seat, which many people like as it provides more stability at higher intensity levels.
It also comes with a large tablet holder that also fits your smartphone, and you can integrate it with a free app to keep track of your training data and progress.
- Weight capacity: 250 lbs limit
- Folded dimensions: 63"H, 22"W, 9"D
The only thing I’d say is that the built-in display is a bit small, and it might be worth just using the app.
7 - Pleny Foldable Upright Stationary Bike
- Dimensions : No
- Maintenance : Easy
- Design : Foldable, upright/semi-recumbent positions
- Warranty : 2-year warranty
- Premium materials : EVA foam handles, alloy steel
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Provides maximum training flexibility with 16 intensity settings
- Large and comfortable seat for longer training times
- Provides good training data, including a heart monitor
Cons
- The display isn’t the easiest to read
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those seeking varied resistance levels
- Individuals prioritizing comfortable seating
Who is it not for?
- Users wanting a clearer display
Final Verdict
With 16 resistance settings and accurate calorie tracking, it suits multiple fitness levels. The display can be tricky to read in bright light but provides useful data.
This folding magnetic upright exercise bike is a good option if you need more than 8 resistance levels. You have 16 levels to choose from, which should give you much more flexibility.
The display is also a positive feature, and during our initial tests, we thought the calories burned calculation seemed to be quite accurate.
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs limit
- Folded dimensions: 55"H, 16"W, 7"D
Just keep in mind that the display can be a bit difficult to read if there’s a lot of light shining on it.
8 - FitDesk Folding Exercise Bike and Workstation
- Dimensions : No
- Maintenance : Easy
- Design : Foldable with built-in tablet holder
- Warranty : No
- Premium materials : No
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Provides a large tray to allow you to work at a computer
- Armrests have massage rollers built it to increase circulation
- Comfortable backrest provides good lower back support
Cons
- Maximum resistance level might not be tough enough for some athletes
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Individuals seeking to exercise while working
- Users needing armrests
Who is it not for?
- Athletes aiming for high intensity
Final Verdict
Unique workstation features allow users to work while training effectively. Best for low-intensity workouts rather than heavy training.
The FitDesk indoor exercise bike is one of the more unique ones and ideal for people who like to get a little bit of exercise done while they work at a computer.
We loved that it came with a large tray that is suitable for using a tablet or computer, and the seat is comfortable enough to use for a longer time.
It provides gradual levels of magnetic resistance through an easy to reach knob, making it a great way to get your legs moving at work.
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs limit
- Folded dimensions: 45"H, 16"W, 17"D
Just keep in mind that this might not be suitable for getting you super fit, as the maximum intensity isn’t too tiring.
9 - Sunny Health and Fitness Magnetic
- Dimensions : No
- Maintenance : Easy
- Design : Foldable, magnetic resistance
- Warranty : No
- Premium materials : Alloy steel frame
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Smooth transition between 8 levels of resistance
- Well-cushioned seat and backrest for more comfort
- Easy to follow assembly instructions should have you up and running quickly
Cons
- We would have expected heart rate monitoring at this price
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those wanting a lightweight, recumbent bike
- Users needing cushioned seating
Who is it not for?
- Athletes requiring heart rate monitoring
Final Verdict
A lightweight, cushioned bike offering quick setup and solid resistance. Its lack of heart rate monitoring may limit some fitness tracking needs.
What we liked about the Sunny Health Fitness bike is that it’s very light for a recumbent bike.
Despite that, it still provides good adjustability and cushioning both on the seat and backrest.
It also took us only a few minutes to get it fully set up as there was very little assembly required.
- Weight capacity: 220 lbs limit
- Folded dimensions: 52"H, 19"W, 15"D
One thing we would have liked included are pulse monitoring grips, which you can find on similarly priced options above.
10 - BCAN Folding Exercise Bike
- Dimensions : 35.4"D x 19.6"W x 47.2"H
- Maintenance : Easy
- Design : Foldable, unique arc frame design
- Warranty : No
- Premium materials : Alloy steel
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Unique folding design makes it quite a small package for a recumbent option
- Great range of tension settings for more training flexibility
- Large display shows training data at a glance
Cons
- Only suitable for people up to 6’2”
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Space-saving enthusiasts
- Those needing a range of resistance settings
Who is it not for?
- Users taller than 6'2"
Final Verdict
A compact, adjustable folding bike that easily fits under a bed with flexible resistance levels. Taller users may find its seating uncomfortable.
The final one of our best folding exercise bikes is this BCAN option.
It has a unique design that allows it to fold down small enough to fit under a bed.
And you still get great training flexibility from a quiet and highly adjustable magnet resistance.
- Weight capacity: 330 lbs limit
- Folded dimensions: 46"H, 20"W, 22"D
The only downside is that it won’t be comfortable for anyone over 6’2”, which is a bit limiting.
How We Tested
To ensure our recommendations for the best folding exercise bikes are trustworthy and comprehensive, we employed a rigorous testing process, spearheaded by a team of fitness enthusiasts and experts.
Here's how we tested and came up with the list of the best folding exercise bikes:
- Hands-on experience: Each bike was used over several weeks to assess real-world performance and durability.
- Stability and comfort tests: We evaluated the bikes' stability during various workout intensities and the comfort of seating and handlebars.
- Resistance level effectiveness: The effectiveness of different resistance levels was tested to ensure a challenging and varied workout experience.
- Folding and storage: Ease of folding and storing the bikes in small spaces was a key aspect of our evaluation.
- Additional features: We examined extra features like digital monitors, heart rate sensors, and pre-set workout programs.
- User feedback and reviews: Consideration of user feedback and reviews helped us gauge long-term reliability and customer satisfaction.
- Comprehensive analysis: The combination of expert analysis and real-world usage ensured our selections met high standards of quality, functionality, and value.
Buyer’s Guide
Here are the 7 things you should keep in mind before you make a purchase.
1. Maximum Weight Bearing Capability
Every foldable stationary bike has a weight limit, and you should avoid getting too close to it.
What do I mean by that?
Essentially, if you weigh in at 210 pounds, then I would suggest that you don’t look at exercise bikes with a limit of 225 pounds.
Aim to go at least 50 pounds higher. Not because you should be gaining weight, but just to make sure you get maximum stability. You don't want your foldable stationary bike to wobble around and heave whenever you pedal.
2. Dimensions
The whole idea of foldable exercise bikes is that they should be easy to store away under a bed or in a closet.
And you want to avoid a stupid mistake I made last year.
I didn’t check the folded measurements of a bike and, as a result, wasn’t able to get it into a closet where I had planned to store it.
Needless to say, it caused all sorts of trouble at home as I didn't have enough floor space.
Just take a few minutes to measure out the dimensions to make sure it fits your planned storage area. Do this especially when you have limited space since you don't want your fitness equipment cluttering your home.
3. Resistance Settings
Compact and foldable bikes mostly come with magnetic resistance.
We did see a few that used friction and one with air resistance, but we didn’t find them useful at all. When choosing the best bike, choose magnetic resistance over air.
You’ll get a nice and quiet bike with smooth levels of magnetic resistance and a user friendly tension control system in the comfort of your home.
We also find that they tend to have better ranges of resistance levels, and you want to aim for 8 or more different settings to accommodate your fitness level and workout progress.
That would give you a lot more flexibility during your cardio sessions.
“Research shows higher-intensity exercise via intervals (when you push yourself during a workout for short bursts of time) can give your numbers the biggest boost.”
- Lara Rosenbaum, contributor at blog.fitbit.com
4. Body Position
Some people prefer an upright bike, while others prefer a recumbent bike.
My personal preference is both.
See, a recumbent bike can free up your arms to use things like resistance bands. That way, you can get an upper and lower body exercise into the same time slot.
Just make sure that your choice of recumbent bike has some good back support to help you avoid unnecessary back strain.
5. Digital LCD Screen
Your LCD screen doesn’t have to look like the cockpit of a plane. But some simple features help you keep track of time, speed, calories burned, distance, and ideally, your pulse will go a long way towards improving your training outcome.
“Training to heart rate also helps you moderate the influence of external factors such as heat and humidity, which require your heart to work harder. Remember that although HR training is useful, being able to instinctively ‘feel’ pace and effort is also a valuable skill.”
- Jo Pavey, Writer at runnersworld.com
And if the monitor can send data to your smartphone, then you’re onto a good option to keep track of your progress over time.
6. Easy Assembly
Some of our readers will know that my DIY skills are very limited.
And I’ve had to call for help on more than one occasion to assemble exercise equipment and furniture.
That’s why I always encourage buying products that require minimal assembly and that come with easy to follow instructions.
All items on this folding exercise bike review are easy to assemble (it was my personal criteria that the team had to agree on).
7. Warranty
Finally, you want to check for a good warranty of ideally 12 months.
This generally says that a company is confident enough in its equipment that your folding bike should last longer.
You’ll probably find that the warranty mainly covers the frame, and that’s fine.
It’s the one part you don’t want to see causing a problem as it would end up meaning you have to buy a new one.
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Maintenance Needs and Durability
Folding exercise bikes require regular maintenance to ensure durability and optimal performance.
- Key maintenance needs include periodic tightening of bolts and screws to prevent wobbling, lubrication of moving parts to reduce wear and tear, and checking pedal integrity.
- Users often face issues like squeaky noises or loose components, which can be mitigated through routine inspections and prompt adjustments.
- To ensure longevity, it's crucial to adhere to the weight limit, store the bike in a dry environment to prevent rust, and use a surge protector for electronic components.
- Regular cleaning to remove sweat and dust also helps in maintaining the bike's condition.
FAQs
Are Folding Exercise Bikes Any Good?
Yes, folding exercise bikes are good, as long as you buy one with a sturdy frame. Some of the cheaper options tend to shake and wobble. They might also have too few resistance settings, limiting how intense your workout can become.
Can You Lose Belly Fat by Riding a Folding Exercise Bike?
Yes, you can lose belly fat by riding a folding exercise bike. It’s a low-impact exercise that offers the option of increasing the intensity to levels that can burn fat more effectively. Folding bikes also make it easier to train more regularly at home.
Do Folding Exercise Bikes Make Much Noise?
No, folding exercise bikes don’t make much noise as long as you avoid the air-based systems. Most magnetic ones will be very quiet, making them suitable for apartments or homes with young children.
Is a Folding Exercise Bike Better Than a Treadmill?
A folding exercise bike is better than a treadmill for most people. It provides a low-impact solution that allows many people to train harder and longer without experiencing joint pain.
What's The Best Folding Exercise Bike?
After months of testing various folding exercise bikes, my top pick is the BulbHead 2in1 Folding Bike Slim Cycle.
It excels in versatility, smoothly transitioning between upright and recumbent positions, and offers a comprehensive workout with its arm resistance bands.
While its seat adjustability could be better for taller users, its overall functionality is impressive. The Xterra Fitness FB150 also stands out as a budget-friendly option with useful features like pulse monitoring.
For anyone seeking a space-efficient, effective home workout, the BulbHead bike is a standout choice.
Our #1 Recommendation
BulbHead 2in1 Folding Bike Slim Cycle
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- Easy to adjust tension control knob with 8 settings
- Includes arm resistance bands for a full body workout
- Allows for upright and recumbent body positions
- Simple assembly process to get you training quickly
- Limited adjustability for taller athletes
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