Are you having trouble exercising because of arthritis or a knee injury? An exercise bike might be just what you need to stay fit and active while recovering. There are different types of exercise bikes available on the market today. Let’s explore the best recumbent exercise bikes for bad knees. A recumbent bike, with its comfortable seat is an excellent choice.
Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes for Bad Knees
Product Table (in a hurry)
# | Recumbent Exercise Bike | Description |
1 | 58”L x 25”W x 38”H –300lb weight capacity – Step-Through Design – 8 level Magnetic Resistance | |
2 | 40.5”L x 21”W x 48”H – Folded 20.5”L x 20”W x 50.5”H – 225lb weight capacity – 8 levels resistance | |
3 | 64”L x 27.7”W x 49.9”H – 300lb weight capacity – 29 workout programs – 25 levels resistance | |
Sunny Health & Fitness Foam Fitness Equipment Floor Mat | 4 Sizes Available |
This post contains affiliate links. If you click on and purchase through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more, but we’ll get a small commission, which helps keep our website operating. Thanks! As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Why Get the Best Recumbent Exercise Bike for Bad Knees?
According to physical therapists, a stationary recumbent exercise bike is ideal low-impact exercise for people with bad knees. It is safe and convenient. In addition, you are not riding on rough terrain, in traffic, and you don’t have to worry about the weather. As you build up strength in your legs, you can gradually increase the resistance on the bike.
Using an exercise bike allows your legs to work their way through their range of motion as you pedal. Lack of exercise decreases the synovial fluid production of the joints and causes stiffness. Regular physical activity is necessary to encourage the synovial fluid of the joints, according to Dr. Vishalakshmi Batchu, MD Internal medicine. – Synovial fluid production is directly dependent on the how much you use your joints.
Things to Look for in the Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes for Bad Knees
The Resistance Levels and Resistance System
The standard number of resistance levels in exercise bikes is 8. If the exercise bike provides more than 8 levels of resistance, consider it as a bonus!
Magnetic resistance is smooth, quiet, and a stronger resistance system than most other types. The heavier the flywheel, the more resistance you have when pedaling. This will provide a more realistic road-like experience.
The Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes for Bad Knees are Adjustable
To accommodate more than one user, look for the ability to adjust the seat closer or farther from the pedals, this allows for different leg lengths. As a result, people of different heights can use the bike.
Design
Determine the amount of SPACE you have in your home to decide on the size of the bike. A BACKLIT LCD DISPLAY makes it easier to read statistics such as distance, speed, calories used, and time. PRESET PROGRAMS are built-in programs and workout routines to help you stay motivated in your workout. BLUETOOTH connections are important if you are doing multi-hour workouts. Watching movies or TV on your phone or tablets helps prevent boredom in your exercise.
The Warranty
It is important to consider the warranty especially when buying a bike online. Look for a warranty that covers the frame and parts or a full refund/replacement if you are not satisfied with the bike. The longer the warranty – the better!
Recumbent Bike Reviews
Here are the reviews of the Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes for Bad Knees
1- Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike with Resistance ME-709
Without dispute, this low-priced bike is the most popular recumbent exercise bike on the market. The step-through design of the bike makes it easy for those with bad knees to get on and off the bike. This compact design makes a small footprint in your home. The recumbent padded seat and handlebars make riding a pleasure.
This bike has eight levels of magnetic resistance with a LED monitor that shows time, speed, distance, and calories. (2 AA batteries are not included) The bike is made for people with a leg inseam measurement between 27”– 36”.
Warranty:
It has a 2-year limited manufacturer warranty.
Specs:
- Resistance: 8 Levels magnetic
- Inseam Length: 27”-36”
- Transport Wheels: yes
- Product Dimension: 58”L x 25”W x 37.5”H
- Product Weight: 61lb
- Weight Capacity: 300lb
Pros:
A Heavy-duty construction
B Step-through design for quick mounting and dismounting
C Weighted foot pedals for maximum foot support and control
D Compact
Cons:
A Annoying clicking sound
What Customers Say:
- The recumbent bike is great – easy to assemble! Assembly took me 30-40 minutes.
- Not sophisticated like the ones in a gym, but great for exercise in front of the TV.
- My wife and I have put on 1000+ miles on this exercise bike in 3 months. Great product!
- Well packed and the instructions were clear.
- Great value for a stationary bike.
- Uncomfortable for a tall person.
- The assembly took 3 hrs – required 2 people and the patience of Job!
2-XTERRA Fitness FB350 Folding Exercise Bike
You will enjoy the compact size of this folding recumbent exercise bike. It has a padded back on the seat to make riding the bike more relaxing. You can control the tension of the pedaling with a manual dial.
It is easy to track the distance you have pedaled on the 2”x1” LCD display. Time, calories, and pulse are also displayed. Hand sensors on the handlebar help you monitor your heart rate.
This exercise bike folds compactly for storage and easily fits into smaller spaces.
Warranty:
1 Year Frame; 90 Days Brake; 90 Days Parts
Specs:
- Resistance: 8 Levels
- Inseam Length: 4’10” – 5’10” tall
- Flywheel: 3.3lb precision balanced magnetic
- Transport Wheels: yes
- Product Dimension: 40.5”L x 21”W x 48”H – Folded 20.5”L x 21”W – 50.5”H
- Product Weight: 42.3lb
- Weight Capacity: 225lb
Pros:
A Quiet
B Good variety in resistance levels.
C Easy to assemble
Cons:
A Handlebars tilt only in one direction
B Seat is not real comfortable
C Small cell phone holder
What Customers Say:
- Great to strengthen thigh muscles to help with knee pain.
- Compact but comfortable.
- Perfect for all ages – even seniors.
- Very sturdy bike for the price.
- Put together in 48 minutes.
- Great for out-of-shape middle-aged men like me!
- Extremely well-made for the money. The price level is hard to beat!
- Plastic stirrups are hard to adjust.
3-Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike
This stylish electric exercise bike is made for your biking pleasure. With enhanced Bluetooth connectivity, you can set, track, and monitor your progress. There are popular app-based tracking tools.
Over 50 global routes automatically adjust to your speed as you ride. Free routes are available, and with an Explore the World app subscription you can unlock more exciting adventures.
A wide level of workout intensity is provided with 25 levels of resistance. Two blue backlit LCD screens offer 29 workout programs.
Aluminum slider seat rail system makes it easy to adjust the seat for your comfort. It has a contoured, ventilated back rest, and padded seat bottom. The weighted flywheel provides a smooth and quiet workout.
Warranty:
10-year frame; 2-year parts; 1-year electronics; 90-day labor.
Specs:
- Resistance: 25 levels
- Workout programs: 29
- Inseam Length: adjustable seat
- Transport Wheels: yes
- Product Dimension: 64”L x 27.7”W x 49.9” H
- Product Weight: 86.6lbs
- Power Source: corded electric
- Weight Capacity: 300lb
Pros:
A Set, track, and monitor your progress with app-based tracking tools.
B Travel the globe with free routes and paid app subscriptions.
C 29 workout programs
D 25 resistance levels
Cons:
A The plastic seat is uncomfortable
B More expensive
What Customers Say:
- A great addition to my home gym. Very close to those heavy-duty commercial grade exercise bikes you see at the gym.
- Bike is fine; comfortable, sturdy, and the programs are easy to figure out.
- Plastic seat and back. (Not comfort of a Lazy Boy)
- Makes a clickity-clack sound.
- Great, knowledgeable, friendly customer service.
- The Schwinn 270 allows 4 profiles – FYI
- Disappointed in the company’s warranty. Am I suddenly the repairman?
Sunny Health & Fitness Foam Fitness Equipment Floor Mat – 4 Sizes Available
You will want a protective floor mat under your exercise bike. It is made to protect hardwood floors and carpets from heavy exercise equipment. It prolongs the life of your equipment from carpet and floor dust entering belts and mechanical parts. And it absorbs vibrations.
High-density, non-slip PVC foam material. Waterproof and sweat resistant. Wipe with a damp cloth.
FAQ’s
What Is the Best Type Exercise Bike for Bad Knees?
The best type of stationary exercise bike for painful, injured, or arthritic knees is a recumbent exercise bike. This comfortable design puts less strain on your joints and back as you pedal. The padded seat and back of the bike comfortably support your body as you gently move the swollen or tender joints. This exercise encourages the synovial fluid to bathe the joints and keep stiffness at bay.
How Long Shall I Ride the Exercise Bike?
Plan on riding 20 minutes each day – three to five times a week. You can begin with 5-minute intervals with no resistance. As your knees can tolerate it you can increase the time and resistance. Begin slowly, you will still benefit from the exercise. Increase time and resistance as you build up your strength.
What Do I Do if I Have Pain While Cycling?
Do not work into pain. When you have pain, back off. Push the pedal as far as you are comfortable. If pain increases, take time off to recover. After a day or two, try again using less effort, until you can do it without pain. Research shows that low-intensity stationary biking is just as effective at pain relief and increasing fitness as tougher, high-intensity workouts.
Why Use a Recumbent Exercise Bike?
Recumbent exercise bikes provide a low-impact, safe way to exercise for people who have arthritis, reduced mobility, a knee injury, and/or need physical therapy. The semi-reclined position with a backrest causes less stress on your muscles while you pedal. It simply changes the way your muscles work as you get a good workout.
Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes for Bad Knees
Do you have knee pain or are you worried about arthritis? There are many ways to keep your knees healthy, and one of them is by using an exercise bike.
To keep your joints healthy, you must keep them in motion. If they have been injured, you will need to begin slowly to recuperate. You can go at your own pace. A recumbent exercise bike is the safest exercise bike and an excellent way to exercise at home.
According to Dr. Vishalakshmi Batchu, MD Internal medicine, regular physical activity is necessary to encourage the production of synovial fluid of the joints, to bathe the joints and prevent them from becoming stiff.
In Conclusion
A recumbent exercise bike is an excellent way to stay fit if you have mobility issues. It is one of the most popular pieces of home exercise equipment. You will love the comfort and convenience of a recumbent exercise bike. It is easy to use and great for bad knees.
When purchasing your recumbent exercise bike, it is all about you and the space you have in your home. You want one that fits your needs and budget.
For those with mobility issues and injuries, easy access to sit on the bike is paramount. It is also important to consider the warranty, the resistance, the adjustability, and the various aspects of the design of the bike.
Disclaimer: If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other healthcare professional. No content on this site should be substituted for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified healthcare practitioner. The information contained here is for informational purposes only. It is from my research and personal experience.
Related Posts
How to Choose a Stationary Exercise Bike
15 Recumbent Exercise Bike Benefits
The Best Under the Desk Elliptical Machines to Keep Your Muscles Toned
Best Stationary Exercise Bikes for Home Use
Many thanks for this valuable and comprehensive post about Recumbent Exercise Bikes. My uncle is really suffering from knee pain. He exercises a lot for that. I think he can choose a good one from these exercise machines. I think this Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike with Resistance will suit him. I will definitely send this post to him. Keep posting like this.
Hi, and thanks for visiting this website. You made a good choice, The Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike is the most popular recumbent bike, and for good reason. It is a quality product that is compact and sturdily built, and the price is right!
All the best to you and your uncle!