Looking for a new way to exercise at home? You’ve probably heard of stationary exercise bikes, but they can be bulky and heavy. They take up a lot of space and can clash with your home’s look. A more compact, easy-to-handle option may suit you better.
Folding exercise bikes solve that problem. They’ve grown popular for their portability — you can unfold them to ride, then fold them up and tuck them away. Unlike traditional non-folding bikes, they don’t need much space, which makes them seem perfect. Before you buy, though, it’s worth checking whether they fit your needs.
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Types of folding exercise bikes
To get to know folding bikes, look at what’s on the market. Some models are very quiet, making them ideal for an office or a home with small children — Marcy foldable exercise bikes are a popular example.
If you need more adjustability for a taller rider, consider the Exerpeutic GOLD 500 XLS Folding Upright Bike. If you want something simple to put together with multiple resistance levels, the Pleny Foldable Fitness Exercise Bike is a good pick.
For a bit more fun, try the Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Bike with Pulse — it tracks your heart rate and has eight levels of magnetic resistance. Note: its pedals sit a bit forward, which can be awkward for shorter riders.
If entertainment matters, some models include a holder for an iPad or Kindle — the ProForm Duo Exercise Bike does this, so you can read or watch shows while you ride.
Features of folding exercise bikes
Here are common features to consider so you can compare folding bikes with traditional stationary models.
Resistance levels
Most folding bikes use magnetic resistance. As you increase resistance, magnets move closer to the flywheel to create more tension. Many foldable bikes offer around eight resistance levels, enough for most users. Some adjust manually, others digitally. If you’re an advanced rider, look for models with more resistance settings.
Weight capacity
Check the weight limit before buying. Different brands and models vary. For example, the Exerpeutic GOLD 500 XLS supports up to 400 pounds, while the ProForm Duo supports about 250 pounds. Many folding bikes have an average limit near 300 pounds. If you’re over a model’s limit, consider a non-folding stationary bike, which usually holds 400 pounds or more.
LCD display
Many bikes include an LCD screen to track time, speed, distance, calories burned, and sometimes heart rate. Seeing your progress can make workouts more motivating.
Heart pulse sensors
Some bikes measure heart rate via hand sensors on the handlebars. This isn’t required, but it helps you stay in your ideal cardio zone and can be useful for people with heart concerns.
Construction
Comfort depends on build. Many bikes have padded, adjustable seats for longer workouts. For better durability and stability, look for a heavy-duty steel frame.
Back support
Two common options for back support are recumbent and upright folding bikes. Recumbent bikes let you sit back against a backrest, which is gentler on the lower back but less intense cardio-wise. Upright bikes resemble a regular bike and engage core muscles more, making them better for cardio workouts.
Height adjustments
Your height matters too. Make sure the bike’s seat and pedal positions adjust so you can reach the pedals comfortably, whether you’re taller or shorter than average.
Transportation wheels
Some models have small wheels to help move the bike after folding. This is handy if the machine is heavier and you don’t want to lift it.
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Moving arms
If you want to work your upper body, choose a model with moving arms. Many bikes let you work arms and legs together or separately, which is great for a full-body workout.
Additional features
Extra perks include holders for tablets or e-readers, Bluetooth, and cup holders. These aren’t necessary but can make workouts more enjoyable and keep you motivated.
How many calories can you burn on a folding exercise bike?
Calories burned depend on resistance and intensity. According to a Harvard study, in 30 minutes:
– A 125-lb person burns about 210–315 calories.
– A 155-lb person burns about 260–391 calories.
– A 185-lb person burns about 322–466 calories.
At a moderate pace, expect roughly 200–300 calories in 30 minutes. Pedal faster and you could burn 400–450 calories in the same time. Speed and resistance largely determine the total.
Pros of folding exercise bikes
– Usually cheaper than non-folding bikes
– Save space
– Easy to store when not in use
– Great for small apartments
– Let you exercise at home while watching TV or reading
Cons of folding exercise bikes
– You may need to unfold them each time, though most are easy to set up
– Not as sturdy as some non-folding bikes, though steel-frame models can be solid
– Lower weight limits than many non-folding bikes
– Not all models fit very tall or very short users
– Resistance levels may be lower than on some stationary bikes
Are folding exercise bikes any good?
It depends on your needs. If space is limited but you want to exercise at home, folding bikes are a solid choice. They’re easy to fold and transport — you can even take one on holiday if you’re driving. They work well for beginners, people who sit a lot, or anyone who wants a quick workout that’s easy to set up and store.
Most people can find a model that suits them unless they’re well over a bike’s weight limit. In the end, any exercise is beneficial, and a folding bike can help you stay active.
Author bio
Sofia Alves is a fitness enthusiast who loves running and helping others build healthy habits. She keeps learning and growing her knowledge through ongoing education and believes the worst workout is the one you didn’t do.