This is our review of the best magnetic resistance spin bike in .
May it be a cyclist or a fitness enthusiast, magnetic spin bikes have gained a lot of popularity over the years. Many people swear by the spin classes at the gym, while others like spinning in the comfort of their own homes.
Given the number of spin bikes available in the market today, selecting the correct one for your home can be confusing. To help you make the right choice, we have extensively researched and curated a list of the six best magnetic resistance spin bikes.
The Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike is the best magnetic resistance spin bike for home exercise as it offers unique features at a competitive price.
Best Magnetic Resistance Spin Bike (Overall) | Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike |
Best Magnetic Resistance Spin Bike (Streaming Workouts) | Bowflex VeloCore Bike |
Best Magnetic Resistance Spin Bike (High-tech) | NordicTrack S22i Studio Cycle |
Best Magnetic Resistance Spin Bike (Beginners) | Sunny Fitness SF- B1002 |
Best Magnetic Resistance Spin Bike (Value for Money) | ProForm Carbon CX |
Best Magnetic Resistance Spin Bike (Budget) | Sunny Fitness SF-B1877 |
We have a detailed buying guide towards the end of this article which can help you evaluate and decide which bike is the best suited for your needs.
6 Best Magnetic Resistance Spin Bikes Reviewed
All the spin exercise bikes reviewed below are excellent but select the one that fits your fitness goals. However, consult a physician if you have any medical conditions.
Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike – Best Magnetic Resistance Spin Bike (Overall)
Resistance levels: 100 levels of magnetic resistance
User weight capacity: 330 lbs
Display: Backlit LCD Console
Heart rate monitoring: Bluetooth-enabled heart rate armband monitor
Warranty: Frame: 10 years, Mechanical Parts & Electronics: 3 years, Labor: 1 year
The Schwinn IC4 Indoor bike is the winner as it provides the best exercise quality and experience compared to all the other spin bikes on the market.
It is compatible with most health and fitness apps like Peloton, JRNY, Zwift, and Explore the world. Although the Schwinn IC4 lacks a built-in touch screen, you can stream classes, undergo real-time coaching, ride through multiple terrains, or watch TV shows with its premium digital connectivity on your device.
This smart bike comes with a backlit LCD through which you can measure your performance.
It has 100 levels of magnetic resistance, offering a challenging workout even to seasoned athletes.
The Schwinn IC4 also comes with a set of 3 lbs dumbbells. This allows you to combine upper and lower body workouts, maximizing the training sessions. In addition, the weights are placed below the bottle holders, making them convenient to reach and use while cycling.
The 4-way adjustable handlebars and seat on the Schwinn IC4 make it suitable for multiple users of different heights.
The bike comes with dual-sided pedals, with toe cages on one side and SPD clips on the other. This gives you the flexibility to bike with regular shoes or premium cleats.
All this makes it the best magnetic spin bike available.
Why do we love it | What you need to consider |
Bluetooth connectivity and app integration | JRNY Membership is an added cost after 1 year |
Comes with dumbbells | |
Dual-sided pedals | |
Bluetooth heart rate monitoring armband |
Summary of Customer Review:
Customers praise Schwinn for its affordability and long-term warranty on the frame. A seamless assembly process, detailed instruction manual, and free shipping add to the positive reviews. Yet, some customers (short-height riders) faced discomfort with the seat, while others encountered issues with poor customer service.
Bowflex VeloCore Bike – Best Magnetic Resistance Spin Bike for Streaming Workouts
Resistance levels: 100 Resistance levels
User weight capacity: 325 lbs
Display: HD Touch screen with 16” and 22” options
Heart rate monitoring: A Bluetooth-enabled heart-rate monitor armband
Warranty: Frame and parts – 2 years, Electronic and labor – 1 year
The Bowflex VeloCore Bike is the best-connected spin bike available in the market.
Bowflex elevates the exercise game by letting users stream applications like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, etc., while exercising. A 1-year JRNY membership gives access to third-party fitness apps like Peloton, Google Health and Apple fit. This allows access to on-demand classes, virtual real-time coaching and much more.
Additionally, this bike comes with a stationary mode and a leaning mode. The latter lets you lean side by side during the workout giving a natural riding feel. Bowflex Velocore’s lean mode feature distinguishes it from competitive brands like Peloton, NordicTrack, and Schwinn. It combines cardio with core strength training through this unique function, making it a fabulous workout equipment.
The VeloCore offers dual-sided pedals. The toe cage allows you to cycle using sneakers. At the same time, the SPD clips let you wear SPD-compatible shoes to elevate the overall workout experience.
The 3 lbs dumbbells placed under the touch screen console help combine upper and lower body workouts. Lastly, it also offers 100 levels of resistance which users can adjust to progress along their fitness journey.
Why do we love it | What you need to consider |
Lean mode for a full-body workout | Short Warranty |
Access to streaming platforms | JRNY Membership is an added cost after 1 year |
Bluetooth heart rate monitoring armband | |
Comes with dumbbells | |
Dual-sided pedals |
Summary of Customer Reviews:
The Bowflex VeloCore is seen as a high-quality, fun indoor bike offering a great cycling experience. It is silent, enhancing the workout without any background noise. However, users found the assembly process challenging. The JRNY memberships have numerous workout streaming options, but the choice is limited for the lean mode programs.
NordicTrack S22i Studio Cycle – Best Magnetic Resistance Spin Bike (High-tech)
Resistance levels: 24 level digital resistance
User weight capacity: 350 lbs
Display: Rotating HD Touchscreen
Heart rate monitoring: Yes
Warranty: Frame – 10 years, Parts – 2 years, Labor – 1 year
The NordicTrack S22i Studio Cycle is a high-technology bike, especially loved by the avid cyclists searching for a studio-like cycling experience at home.
This bike offers 24 levels of resistance to challenge your workouts. It is also the only bike with the incline and decline feature, which imitates cycling on real terrains.
The 22-inch touchscreen swivels 360 degrees, letting you see the screen irrespective of your workout move. Users can stream online classes from the interactive display. And the automatic trainer control feature allows the auto adjustment of resistance, incline and decline, ensuring an effective workout.
The pedals have the standard toe cages as well as the SPD clips so that you can choose the footwear as per your liking. Additionally, it comes with two 3 lbs dumbbells, placed next to the handlebars to combine upper and lower body workouts easily.
This bike has an ergonomically designed padded saddle with adjustable seat and handlebars. This makes for comfortable workout sessions.
The built-in speakers, Bluetooth headphone connectivity and the cooling fan add fun to the workouts.
With all this, it is very easy to see why this NordicTrack features as the most high-tech bike.
While the bike is compatible with the iFit application, users who wish to use other platforms may find it limiting on this bike.
Why do we love it | What you need to consider |
Incline and decline option | iFit application is paid after 30 days |
High user weight capacity | |
Dual-sided pedals | |
360-degree swivel touchscreen | |
Cooling fan | |
Bluetooth connectivity, built-in speakers |
Summary of Customer Reviews:
A feature-rich bike, NordicTrack is worth the buck. Customers find the vast library of workouts providing value for money, with classes filmed across the globe. They have mentioned that riding this bike makes them feel like they are riding outdoors because of the incline and decline feature. However, the noisy fan, limited music and a few technical glitches in the iFit application can deter the smooth experience.
Sunny Fitness Endurance Bike SF- B1002 – Best Magnetic Resistance Spin Bike for Beginners
Resistance levels: Adjustable magnetic resistance
User weight capacity: 275 lbs
Display: Digital Monitor
Heart rate monitoring: Not available
Warranty: Frame – 3 years, Other parts and components – 180 days
The Sunny Fitness SF- B1002 is probably one of the most stylish and sleek-looking magnetic resistance spin bikes you will come across. It is a no-frills design with a solid steel frame for maximum durability.
The 49 lbs chrome flywheel provides the cyclist with a smooth ride and stability. The belt-drive system ensures a relatively quiet exercise session.
The bike has a micro-adjustable manual resistance where the cyclist can change the resistance level with a simple twist of the knob. Thus, you can increase or decrease the speed without breaking the exercise momentum.
The Sunny Fitness SF-B1002 is an excellent option for beginners as it is user-friendly. The multiple grip options on the handlebar are suited for varying intensity levels and comfort during exercise.
The bike does not compromise on fundamentals like toe-caged pedals. It is designed to keep your feet intact. The adjustable seat option ensures multiple family members can use the bike and adjust the seat to obtain the correct posture.
The provision of floor stabilizers and built-in transportation wheels make it convenient to move around.
Why do we love it | What you need to consider |
49 lbs flywheel | No heart rate monitoring |
Multiple grip handlebars | Short warranty |
No display |
Summary of Customer Reviews:
The Sunny Fitness SF- B1002 is rated highly by customers because it is easy to assemble and use. The reviews also mention how compact the bike is, making it easy to place anywhere in the house. However, the lack of a display console can deter the cycling experience for those who want to measure their vitals while exercising.
ProForm Carbon CX – Best Magnetic Resistance Spin Bike (Value for Money)
Resistance levels: 16 levels
User weight capacity: 250 lbs.
Display: Adjustable large LCD
Heart rate monitoring: Yes
Warranty: Frame – 10 years, Labor and parts – 1 year
The ProForm Carbon CX is a people-pleaser. It provides a lot of value for the price you pay. It has a sleek design made with high-quality steel, promising to withstand the test of time.
This is a high-value magnetic resistance bike with an inertia-enhanced flywheel that facilitates smooth and steady pedal strokes. Additionally, the 16 levels of silent magnetic resistance allow you to get fitter from the comfort of your home without disturbing other household members.
The 30-day iFit membership allows you to stream classes and experience interactive workouts.
The large rotating screen lets users workout comfortably around the bike, especially when using the included 3 lbs dumbbells.
The ergonomically padded saddle and the adjustable seat and handlebars let you adjust the bike as per your height, making the workout super comfortable. And the option to switch between toe cages or SPD clips adds to the convenience.
The transportation wheels and the moderate weight of the bike make it easy to move. This makes the ProForm Carbon CX the most valuable for your buck.
Why do we love it | What you need to consider |
Dual-sided pedals | iFit application is paid after 30 days |
Comes with dumbbells | Low user weight capacity |
Summary of Customer Reviews:
Users have loved this bike for the features it offers at its reasonable price. The swiveling screen feature is excellent for both on and off-bike exercise. However, not having Bluetooth, speakers and a cooling fan can deter the experience of cyclists who desire advanced features in the bike.
Sunny Fitness Bike SF-B1877 – Best Magnetic Resistance Spin Bike (Budget)
Resistance levels: Adjustable magnetic resistance
User weight capacity: 265 lbs.
Display: Digital Monitor
Heart rate monitoring: Handgrip with pulse sensor
Warranty: Frame – 3 years, Other parts and components – 180 days
The Sunny Fitness SF-B1877 is a bike that geared up the home exercise game over the years. The pulse rate sensor is a feature not commonly found in budget category bikes. Since the Sunny SF-B1877 has this feature, even seasoned cyclists find this bike a ‘fantastic’ budget option for home use.
Another prominent feature is the belt-driven 29 lbs chrome flywheel with side panels made of durable plastic. The chrome flywheel reduces noise during workouts, and the plastic panels reduce the overall maintenance cost.
It comes equipped with a manual magnetic resistance where users can change the desired resistance levels by turning the knob placed conveniently on top of the frame.
This bike has a durable frame and 265 lbs user weight capacity. It has a four-way adjustable seat mechanism. The bike’s above-average user weight capacity makes it an ideal choice for a household with multiple members. And the adjustable seat options accommodate different users without compromising on proper form.
The floor stabilizers ensure safety and prevent the bike from falling or tilting, even while exercising on an uneven floor or at a high intensity.
The performance monitor on the Sunny 1877 displays metrics like distance, time, and calories.
All these features make a great budget spin bike, especially for beginners looking for home workouts.
Why do we love it | What you need to consider |
Chrome flywheel with plastic covers | Short warranty |
Handgrip pulse monitoring | Only two-way adjustable handlebars |
Summary of Customer Reviews:
Users have categorized the bike as a fantastic option for spinning. It scored high on features such as offering a smooth ride and displaying essential statistics. The magnetic resistance makes it a smooth ride. It is also rated highly for its ease of assembly, use and portability because of the transport wheels. However, the bike is not as compact after putting it together, lacks a four-way adjustable handlebar function and has no Bluetooth connectivity.
What is a magnetic resistance spin bike?
A magnetic resistance spin bike is an indoor cycling bike where the tension is created by spinning a metal plate (i.e., the flywheel) through a magnetic field. Unlike the belt or contact resistance, the magnets don’t touch the flywheel. When the user pedals, the flywheel spins through the magnetic field, and the magnets then move closer and away from the flywheel to create resistance.
Why are magnetic resistance bikes better than friction?
The consensus is that magnetic bikes are better than friction as they have a lot of benefits:
Durable and maintenance-free
These bikes require zero maintenance as their resistance system is very sturdy and can last for years. It is also relatively easier to clean and does not collect dust because of zero friction between the magnets.
Quiet
The magnetic mechanism ensures a smooth, quiet ride, making it ideal for a home workout. Users can exercise without disturbing other household members.
Better workout experience
Due to the advanced technology used in these bikes, the pedal strokes are smooth and steady, giving you a fantastic workout experience.
However, the only con of these indoor spin bikes is that it is expensive because the manufacturing cost of magnetic resistance assembly is higher.
What are the benefits of indoor cycling?
Indoor cycling is an extremely popular cardio workout worldwide as it has numerous health benefits.
Cardiovascular health
Cycling is a great exercise to improve heart health. It helps improve your aerobic capacity, leading to better stamina. And as we know, better cardiovascular health positively affects most aspects of the human body.
Low impact workout
Indoor cycling provides a low-impact workout for the joints and does not overly tire the body. It is an ideal workout for people with knee and back issues. However, a recumbent exercise bike would be better than a spin bike if you have persistent back pain.
Weight management
Cycling helps burn around 200-300 calories [1] in 30 minutes, depending on your body weight. This is a great way to create a calorie deficit, which will in turn help you lose weight.
Increase muscle endurance
In addition to building your heart health, cycling works wonders in building muscle endurance and strength. Cycling not only works on the lower body muscles like the glutes, hamstrings and quads but also the core.
Mental health/stress relief
It is a known fact that exercise helps improve mood and energy levels, which leads to high self-confidence. And a happier, less stressed state of mind.
Buying Guide: What to look for when buying an Indoor Spin Bike?
Below are some points you should keep in mind when looking for a spin bike with a power motor.
Flywheel
The flywheel is a crucial component of the bike that decides if the ride will be smooth or bumpy. Low flywheel weight on an indoor cycling bike can create a rough exercise experience. Consequently, the heavier the flywheel, the smoother the ride. This is because it can hold weight and pressure during training, giving you steady pedal strokes. A good weight for the flywheel is between 30 to 45 lbs, but the bikes with heavy flywheels tend to cost more.
Drive system
The drive system is what determines the resistance mechanism of the bike. There are 2 types, and you should evaluate your needs before deciding.
Chain Drive: The chain-driven system on the indoor bike mimics the outdoor bike experience. It has a chain that connects to the sprocket that keeps the flywheel moving as you pedal. These bikes are generally noisier but also cheaper.
Belt Drive: Belt driven system is a more advanced system in which the bike uses a belt that moves like a conveyor belt when the rider pedals. The belt drive system offers a smooth and quiet ride, and can be more expensive.
Pedals
Many cyclists consider pedals one of the important parts of the bike, as they play a significant role in defining the riding experience.
Standard indoor bikes come with toe cage pedals, where the foot is inside the cage. This reduces slipping and injuries.
The other more advanced type of pedal is the SPD pedal. These are clipless and preferred by avid cyclists. They are expensive and require SPD-compatible shoes or cleats but provide a very natural riding experience.
Seat
The seat’s comfort significantly affects how much time you spend on the bike. So select an ergonomic seat, which is padded. Also, make sure that it is adjustable so it can be set up as per user preference.
Weight Limit
Always check the maximum weight limit of the indoor cycle you intend to purchase. This is the maximum weight it can hold. High-weight capacity bikes are also sturdier and more stable during highly intense workout sessions.
Remember to select a bike with a higher weight capacity than the heaviest member in your household.
Other features
All the bikes today come with a ton of fancy features. These can help you workout regularly. So think about the things you want the most, and select a bike accordingly. Some of these features include
- Heart rate monitoring
- Display screen
- Tablet / bottle holder
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Built-in speakers
- Cooling fan
Conclusion
With so many indoor spin bikes available, selecting the right one can be a huge task. We hope our review helps you select the correct stationary magnetic spin bike as per your needs.
The Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike is the best overall magnetic resistance spin bike for home workouts as it offers a range of unique features at a very competitive price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does flywheel weight matter with magnetic resistance?
Yes, flywheel weight is the guiding factor in spin bikes. A heavier flywheel leads to a smooth cycling experience. On the contrary, a flywheel with a low weight (lower than 25 lbs) is considered risky and has the probability of a bumpy and inconsistent ride.
How much should I work out on the spin bike to lose weight?
Adopting an active lifestyle and healthy food habits are crucial factors in losing weight. Moreover, following these consistently is the key to sustainable weight loss. An average of 15-20 minutes of exercise five days a week can provide effective results.
Many of our overweight readers find our reviews on the best heavy-duty elliptical machines handy, as these machines are highly effective for those trying to lose weight.
Do I have to be fit to start spinning?
No, spin bikes are inclusive. It can accommodate users that are new, intermediate, or advanced. The manual control of the resistance level on the bike lets you set your pace as you progress in your fitness journey.
If you are starting your workouts, you might find our compilation of the best exercise bike to lose weight helpful. But if you have been working out and looking to maximize your performance, we have researched the best pre-workout with creatine that can give you the additional energy kick.
Can I use a spin bike if my weight is higher than the weight limit?
You shouldn’t use any equipment whose weight limit is lesser than your actual weight. It is unsafe and can lead to injuries. Any product engineered to hold a certain weight must only be used within that weight limit as it can break down under higher pressure.
If you are concerned about your weight being over the weight limit of the spin bikes, you can check these best recumbent bikes for obese or the best heavy-duty treadmill. Not only are some of these the sturdiest indoor bikes (can take up to 500 lbs), but they also reduce the risk of injury by providing additional back and knee support.
What should I wear for my spin workouts?
Wear fabrics that are breathable and comfortable to exercise. You can opt for padded cycling shorts, gym shorts, and any basic tee shirt. Wear shoes designed for running, exercising or are sports specific. If your home exercise bike requires special compatible footwear, please wear only those to avoid an injury.
Disclaimer: The information mentioned in the article above is for educational and informational purposes only. It shouldn’t be considered as health or medical advice. Please consult a doctor or a qualified health professional if you have any medical/health conditions questions.