Best Spin Bikes: We Review the Top Indoor Bikes That Will Complete Your Home Gym

5 Indoor Bikes That Will Complete Your Home GymAre you itching to make your spinning class a one-student session?

How about extending those 45 minute classes to whatever you’re comfortable with in your own home?

If you’ve got these motivational tendencies, then it’s time to spend the big bucks and invest in the ultimate spin bikes for at-home use.

But, where do you start? We’ll tell you. You start with adjustable features, a comfortable booty, and portability. Those elements will get you spinning today and every other day – not at the schedule of the gym!

And, if you’re not sure of the differences between tackling spin class at the gym or taking it home or how heavy the flywheel should be, then you’re in the right place to learn all about it!

Let’s quit the slow run and up the resistance starting with the ultimate stationary exercise bikes online!

Our 5 Top Spin Bikes

Sunny Health & Fitness Pro Indoor Cycling Bike Review

sunny-health-fitness-pro-indoor-cycling-bikeAre you tired of spending tons of money on a gym membership when you can get your groove on in the privacy and comfort of your own home? Heck, throw on some disco music, add some strobe lighting, and you’ve got the makings of a spin class right at home! And, the Sunny Health & Fitness Pro Indoor Cycling Bike would complete this perfect picture.

You don’t have to sweat and embarrass yourself any longer in front of a room full of strangers. This indoor bike has all the features and necessities you could want!

It’s totally portable to lift and put away at your pleasure with transportation wheels that help out your back in the process, although leaving the bike out would make a good conversation starter for dinner guests.

And, if you’re not the only one that’s enthusiastic about your new spin bike purchase, you’ll be ecstatic to know that it’s fully customizable! Adjustable handle bars and an adjustable seat allow you and anyone else to share the benefits of a good spin session to start off the day, if you feel like sharing it.

To really up the ante and the resistance, it has adjustable resistance systems and a heavy duty crank system to keep up with your fitness needs.

The smooth chain drive mechanism works in tandem with the 40 pound flywheel, and if you’re under 275 pounds, you’re good to get spinning right away!

Main Benefits:

  • 40 lb flywheel
  • Portable
  • Adjustable settings
  • Heavy crank system
  • 275 lb max weight

Main Drawbacks:

  • Uncomfortable seat
  • Noisy seat

Customer Reviews:

There are several hundred raving reviews of the Sunny Health & Fitness Pro Indoor Cycling Bike, and for excellent reasons. But, the main theme of the reviews tout that the spin bike offers great value for its price!

But, there was quite some complaint about the very uncomfortable seat – rock hard. Fortunately, the value and benefits largely outweighs the one flaw. Besides, if you’re a gym rat, just get a rock hard butt – problem solved!

Popular Questions (and Answers)

How Heavy does the Flywheel Need to be?

This bike’s flywheel is 40 pounds. Typically, flywheel weights will vary between 30-50 pounds.

Lighter weights are best suited for beginners and heavier weights are for seasoned spinners.

What Material is the Seat on the Sunny Health Cycling Bike Made out of?

It’s a leather-padded seat.

Does the Health & Fitness Pro Bike Come Pre-Assembled?

It doesn’t, although some local retailers offer assembly for a fee. However, according to reviews, it doesn’t take more than 25 minutes and the set-up is relatively easy.

What are the Sunny Health & Fitness Pro Indoor Bike's Dimensions?

It measures 20 (W) x 46.5 (H) x 48.5 (D) inches. Not small, but not bulky either.

Is the Indoor Cycling Bike for Beginners or Advanced Cyclists?

This spin bike is best suited for beginners and even intermediate level cyclists.

Sunny Health & Fitness Pro Indoor Cycling Bike Features:

  • Affordable
  • Easy to put away
  • Easy assembly
  • Good for beginners
  • Not bulky

Sunny Health & Fitness Indoor Cycle Trainer Review

sunny-health-fitness-indoor-cycle-trainerIf you’re addicted to pushing yourself that extra mile for that extra burn, then the Sunny Health & Fitness Indoor Cycle Trainer spin bike is for you!

It’s been outfitted with a 49 pound flywheel to really test your strengths at kicking off and slowing down, so make sure those calf muscles are in tip-top shape!

Now, the top-press down brake is an adjustment knob that allows for various resistances by twisting it. One way to remember this system is “righty tighty, lefty loosey”. For those that need a little more clarification, twist right for more resistance and twist left for less – it’s really that simple.

The adjustment knob is spring-loaded as well, so if you need to brace for a quick stop, just take your feet off the pedals and press down on the knob to apply pressure to slow it down.

Another nifty feature is the adjustable seat, and we’re not just talking about up and down. In fact, all of Sunny Health & Fitness spin bikes allow for the seat to be moved front and back as well. So, if you like to get closer to the handle bars or you prefer to be further back, you have the option!

And, if you’re on the bigger side – it’s all muscle right? – then, you’ll appreciate the 275 pound maximum weight limit of the bike!

So, if you’re worried about toppling over when you’re getting serious and you come up out of the saddle, be assured that you’ll stay upright. This is all thanks to not only the quality of the bike, but also to the adjustable feet to ensure the bike is level whether you’re climbing that imaginary mountain or cruising the streets.

Main Benefits:

  • 49 lb flywheel
  • 275 lb max weight
  • Top press-down brake
  • Adjustable resistances
  • Solid build

Main Drawbacks:

  • Noisy brakes

Customer Reviews:

The Sunny Health & Fitness Indoor Cycle Trainer has proven itself to cycling enthusiasts and has been rated as one of the best spinning bikes for at-home use. They love the quality build, adjustable features, and very smooth riding experience.

But, noisy brakes seem to be a common criticism. However, it’s nothing a little silicon spray can’t fix! So, overall, the Cycle Trainer is proving to be an excellent at-home investment.

Popular Questions (and Answers)

Does the Adjustment Resistance Knob on the Bike have Markings?

It would be nice if the resistance knob had index markings to recall which resistances you liked best, but unfortunately, it doesn’t.

Why does the Spin Bike Need a Flywheel?

As an indoor and stationary bike, a flywheel is needed to provide a momentum that mimics that of an outdoor bike. It provides smoothness, resistance, and an efficient riding experience.

What is the Main Advantage of the Bike's Belt Drive over a Chain?

The belt drive is much quieter over a chain system.

How Much Rotations or Twisting does the Adjustable Resistance Knob Require?

The revolutions to adjust for resistance requires considerable twisting versus other spin bikes for sale.

Sunny Health & Fitness Indoor Cycle Trainer Features:

  • Easy to assemble
  • No wobbling
  • Quiet operation
  • Very smooth
  • Easy to make adjustments

Xspec Pro Indoor Cycling Bike Review

xspec-pro-indoor-cycling-bikeIf you want to quit the trips to the gym and bring the cycling home to you without breaking the bank, then the perfect spin bike for home is the new to 2016 Xspec Pro Indoor Cycling Bike.

If you’re a beginner or novice to spinning, then the price tag of this indoor spin bike is going to be incredibly attractive. As one of the most affordable spin bikes on the market, it’s easily accessible to buy in-store or online.

Even though it’s made with a heavy duty aluminum frame, it’s quite lightweight at only 66 pounds! Moving and storing is going to be a breeze!

And, while it may be best suited for a first-timer, its features are far from entry level. The bike can also track time, speed, distance, and even calories burned! It’s going to be your new exercise tracker without paying for that personal trainer.

Fascinatingly, for its price, it has even more features! The ergonomic saddle is adjustable in height, and it even has a micro-adjustable seat slider. Up, down, forward, and back – the directions are versatile!

Slip-free pedals and no-slip grip handle bars make for a smooth and steady ride for all types of terrains that you put yourself through. And, there’s even an emergency brake if you find yourself exhausted. But, that’s the point right? Ride till you can’t ride no more.

Main Benefits:

  • Heavy duty aluminum frame
  • Tracking features
  • Slip-free features
  • Emergency break
  • Lightweight

Main Drawbacks:

  • Knob may come loose

Customer Reviews:

The Xspec Pro Indoor Cycling Bike is very new to the spinning market, but don’t let that hold you back as it hasn’t for its new customer base. And, the best thing about is that it’s feature-loaded, even with its low budget price tag.

And, while it may be nit-picky to mention, the only downside is how relatively easy it might be for the resistance adjustment knob to come off when loosening for a lighter resistance.

However, with the many features and upsides of the bike, we’re sure that you can overlook this potential flaw as others have.

Popular Questions (and Answers)

Does the Xspec Pro Indoor Cycling Bike Have Pedal Straps?

Yes! The slip-free pedals are outfitted with straps that are adjustable.

Does the Xspec Bike Take up a lot of Space?

This indoor spinning bike is very compact and lightweight. Its dimensions are 39 (H) x 20 (W) x 42 (L) inches.

What is the Maximum Weight Limit of the Pro Indoor Bike?

The maximum weight limit of this bike is 250 pounds.

What is the Flywheel Weight?

The flywheel weight is 30 lbs – an excellent weight for newbies.

Are there any Extra Accessories that come with the Bike Purchase?

You’ll be excited to know that it comes with a free, silver water bottle and the assembly tools required to put the bike together.

Xspec Pro Indoor Cycling Bike Features:

  • Easy to assemble
  • Packed with features
  • Easy to use
  • Easy to move and transport
  • Not a space hog

IRONMAN Fitness H-Class 510 Indoor Training Cycle Review

ironman-fitness-h-class-510-indoor-training-cycleIf you’re an Ironman, then you know anything is possible, and so is getting the maximum spin workout at home! The IRONMAN Fitness H-Class 510 Indoor Training Cycle Bike speaks of the company’s brand of excellence, passion, commitment, and perseverance. So, are you ready to take on the at-home spinning challenge?

Not for wussies, this indoor training bike throws in a 44 pound flywheel that’s been aligned and balanced to provide the smoothest riding experience ever. And, it ups the game by providing 2 Directional Pedaling just for fun.

Its chain-driven system simulates the pleasures and challenges a road bike offers. And, with no-slip, steel pedals that have toe cages and adjustable straps, you’re not getting thrown off the bike any time soon.

The 3 piece crank system ensures you won’t have to deal with maintenance issues, and its transportation wheels takes all the work out of moving and storing.

But, it wouldn’t be an IRONMAN bike if it didn’t have adjustable, multi-grip handle bars with pulse sensors embedded in them. You can excitedly track your heart rate to make sure you get into the right zone for maximum fat burn or to simply push yourself because you’re an Ironman.

So, get into the spirit of never giving up and prove you’re a champion by tackling the challenges the the IRONMAN Fitness Indoor Cycle Bike can offer you. Who knows, you might have the makings of an Ironman in you – go ahead, it’s a dare to discover it.

Main Benefits:

  • 44 lb flywheel
  • 275 lb max weight
  • 3 piece crank system
  • 2 directional pedaling
  • Heart pulse sensors

Main Drawbacks:

  • Special pedals

Customer Reviews:

Many reviewers love the IRONMAN Fitness H-Class 510 Indoor Training Cycle bike for several reasons. But, the main advantages they appreciate is the quality build of the bike and how comparative it is to a commercial-grade spin bike at the gym.

But, for those of you looking for SPD-compatible pedals, you’re out of luck. These are a special size that can’t be replaced.

However, the IRONMAN bike holds up to the expectations of many hard-core spinners.

Popular Questions (and Answers)

What are the Height Requirements for the IRONMAN Indoor Cycle Bike?

For the most efficient riding experience, you should be between 5 feet to 6 feet and 4 inches tall.

Is the IRONMAN Bike Quiet for a Chain-Driven Bike?

Yes, it’s a quiet-operating machine.

What Other Measures Does the Bike Have to Ensure Quiet Operation?

The bike also comes with a 79 (L) x 35.4 (W) x .24 (H) inch waterproof PVC equipment mat for further noise reduction.

It’s also a protection for hardwood, cork, and laminate floors.

What are the Adjustment Directions for the Handle Bars?

Not only can the multi-grip handle bars be moved up and down, they can also be adjusted forward and back for a true, fitting customization feature.

Does the IRONMAN Cycling Bike Have a Top-Down Brake?

Yes, it has a conveniently-placed top-down leather pad braking system.

IRONMAN Fitness H-Class 510 Indoor Training Cycle Features:

  • Battery powered
  • Includes freebies
  • Adjustable resistances
  • Sturdy build
  • Easy assembly

Marcy XJ-3220 Club Revolution Cycle Trainer Review

marcy-xj-3220-club-revolution-cycle-trainerAre you looking for the ultimate cardio workout at home? Then, you might just be crazy enough to seek out an intense spinning session in your own home with the Marcy XJ-3220 Club Revolution Cycle Trainer Bike!

Join the Marcy Club by plopping your entire 300 pound weight onto the durable steel construction of the bike – sitting and standing!

And, if it’s not your weight that tests its backbone, it’s not going to be rust or corrosion either. The steel frame has sturdy and robust welding points that are far from noticeable with its aesthetically-pleasing powder-coated finish.

And, while there’s a lot of talk of steel, don’t be misled into thinking you’re compromising durability for comfort. The Trainer bike has been ergonomically designed to provide maximum comfort and ease of use from its handle bars and seat to its adjustable basket cage pedals.

The quick-stop mechanism is at your service for when the cardio workout is proving to put you into cardiac arrest – if you work that hard! And, if being in the Marcy Club is proving to be extremely breath-taking, then slow it on down with the manual resistance knob to cruise in forgiving terrains.

But, you won’t want to hang out there too long, because you’re going to want to try out what the 40 pound flywheel really has to offer. Here’s a hint, a smooth move all the way.

So, if the Marcy Club sounds like your cup of tea, then clear out the den and transform it into your personal gym!

Main Benefits:

  • 40 lb flywheel
  • 300 lb max weight
  • Steel construction
  • Aesthetically pleasing
  • Price

Main Drawbacks:

  • Uncomfortable seat

Customer Reviews:

The Marcy XJ-3220 Club Revolution Cycle Trainer is blowing it out of the ball park with its seductive price tag and sturdy construction. It really allows all types and levels of cyclists to take advantage of the Marcy bike!

But, like many indoor trainers, the seat will probably need to replaced or supplemented to cater for more flabbier – oops, softer bottoms.

All in all, there are many spinners lining up to be part of the Marcy Club!

Popular Questions (and Answers)

Is it Possible to Pedal Standing up in the Bike?

The very durable and solid steel construction of the bike allows for 300 pounds in the standing or sitting position.

So, if you’re well under that weight limit, sprinting or pedaling at high resistance standing up is no issue.

Does the Marcy Bike have a Digital Display?

No, there are no digital features on this spin bike.

What Kind of Assembly is Required?

Conveniently, the frame and wheels are already put together. It’s just the other parts such as seat, pedals, handle bars etc that need assembling.

What is the Drive Mechanism System?

The Marcy Trainer Bike uses a chain-driven system.

Marcy XJ-3220 Club Revolution Cycle Trainer Features:

  • Affordable
  • Very easy to assemble
  • Handles large weights
  • Adjustable features
  • Various resistances

Which is the Best Spin Bike For You?

Feature Packed...

If you’re all about “big is better”, then it’s a no-brainer. The IRONMAN Fitness H-Class 510 Indoor Training Cycle holds a maximum weight of 300 lbs, is heavy, and it’s solid.

It’s out-fitted with every feature you could want on a spin bike, and it will be the tool to get you that Ironman reputation in no time.

Lowest Price...

But, when the budget sets the standard for what you can realistically invest in, the Xspec Pro Indoor Cycling Bike is going to be your first choice.

And, even though it’s the cheapest bike in the line-up, it has way more features than it really should!

Crowd Pleasers...

Now there are two bikes that come at a tie – the Sunny Health & Fitness Pro Indoor Cycling Bike and the Marcy XJ-3220 Club Revolution Cycle Trainer. They will both be an excellent spin bike for home use, any time, any day.

But, by slim margins, the Sunny Health Pro Indoor Cycling Bike wins the debate if you’re concerned about the “green stuff” – the money honey. It’s the more affordable option.

Our Top Pick...

The top spin bike out of the lot is the Sunny Health & Fitness Indoor Cycle Trainer. For its quality and its build, it’s a top rated bike & an excellent investment with its 49 lb flywheel and various features.

Now, you’ve got to admit, it’s not really the bike you’re after, it’s the disco ball, loud music, and dim lights – the ambiance that really gets you pumping in spin class when you’re at the gym! So, pick a bike that helps you to maintain that excitement, and we’d say you’ve got a winner!

Spin Bike Buying Guide

female exercising on a spin bike

Home vs Gym

Why on Earth would you want to pay for a spin bike if you can readily use one at the gym? That’s a question that more people than you think are asking. So, be ready to answer that question the next time you get raised eyebrows from a gym rat!

No travel time

The big cities are hit with traffic jams just to get a few miles down the road and rural roads have long stretches of highway. Get a spin bike for home and you won’t have to travel anywhere. Okay, maybe from the couch to the bike, but at least you can say you’re not a couch potato… anymore.

No schedules

Don’t miss out on another spin class again because of the gym’s schedule. With personal and work routines that can interfere, having a bike at home allows you to workout when you want.

No gym fees

Quit paying up the dough to someone else when you can make your money back in no time with your own bike at home! Duh, it’s cost-effective, especially if you’re a spin class addict.

Your choice of bike

It goes without saying that when you’re paying for the bike, you can pick which one you want – all the time. You always get first choice in your home, and you no longer have to deal with the bike that no one else wants to ride. Does that sound familiar? Arriving 10 mins early to class just to find everyone else beat you to the punch.

Audience

You no longer have to talk to others, dress for others, or be chippy for others. Be grumpy, nude, or mute if you want! While you will miss out on the motivational aspects of spinning with others, we think riding nude might just be better!

Cleanliness

Your bike at home is yours and yours alone. Although gym bikes are regularly cleaned and maintained, you can clean yours as often and as thoroughly as you want.

Chain vs Belt Drive Spin Bike Mechanisms

While both systems achieve the same result, this debate right here might not mean much to you. But, if you’re looking over the best spinning bikes to buy, then you’re definitely going to want to consider this.

And, in truth, it’s hard to say which is better. So, we’ll lay out the pros and cons of each.

Chain Pros

  • Doesn’t need replacement, just good maintenance
  • Similar to outside riding experience
  • Can be the more affordable option

Chain Cons

  • Requires weekly maintenance
  • Noisy operation
  • Adjustments needed when chains get loose

Belt Pros

  • No maintenance required
  • Quiet operation
  • No adjustments necessary
  • Smooth riding experience

Belt Cons

  • Requires replacement every year or two

What are Flywheel Weights?

If you’re a novice to spinning, then you’re really going to appreciate this brief explanation.

The flywheel is the front wheel that moves when you pedal, and its weight will determine how smooth the riding experience is, the resistance level to get started spinning, and the resistance level to slow down when stopping.

But, how heavy should it be? Typically, beginners to spinning will want to stay in the 30 lb range, but no less.

Intermediate spinners will want flywheel weights in the 40-45 lb range while more advanced spinners tend towards 45+ lb range. Some high-end commercial-grade spin bikes for advanced cyclists are upwards of 60 lbs!

Another factor to consider about flywheel weights is, the heavier, the better – within reason. So, the goal is to become efficient enough to be able to upgrade from a 30 lb flywheel to a 40 lb one, and this is usually sufficient for most spinners of all skill levels.

Main Advantages of a Heavy Flywheel

  • Pedaling motions are sufficiently weighted for a natural riding experience
  • Provides smoother riding motions than lighter flywheels
  • Feel like pedaling is at the right pace and weight for the gear you’re in
  • More efficient riding than lighter flywheels
  • Can protect joints from motions versus motions caused from light flywheels

Additional Features to Consider

Digital Features

Distance, calories, heart rate, and time tracking are all features that might be important to you. But, it might cost you quite a bit more.

So, look for how easily readable the display is, how user-friendly and intuitive the operating system is, and realistically, what trackers you will use.

Adjustable Features

Mainly, the handlebars and the seat are the two adjustable features of the bike.

While most bikes offer up and down adjustments, keep an eye out on bikes that also offer horizontal, back and forward, adjustments. This might especially be handy on the seat for those who want a closer lean into the handle bars.

Transport and Portability

Does the bike have transport wheels? Is it a mammoth to move? You should think about whether or not you want something that’s easy to store and move out of the way or something that you’ve allowed to take up a permanent space in the den.

If you buy a heavy-duty bike that’s meant to stay put once you’ve assembled it, your back might just pay the price for it for when you decide you like the corner facing the television better.

Stabilization

You want a bike that you can move and groove on, so it’s got to have strong, stabilized legs – the frame is very important.

During your research, gather the necessary information about its construction and stabilizing features from the manufacturer, and most of all, see what others have to say by stalking spin bike reviews for the truth.

Friction vs Magnetic Resistance

The resistance system of a spin bike is also an important feature. But, the most affordable and most commonly-used type of resistance is the friction system.

The magnetic resistance system works with two magnets on either side of the flywheel. An adjustment knob, or sometimes digital console, is used to bring the magnets closer to the flywheel for higher resistance and further away for less resistance.

It’s very desirable – low maintenance, no dust collection, and it’s silent in operation. But, the best feature about it is the indexed or marked levels to know which resistance you’d like to repeat in different cycling sessions.

The friction system uses pads that rest on the flywheel and pressure is applied as the adjustment resistance knob is twisted or tightened.

Even though it’s simple in operation and the pads do require replacement, it’s an efficient system because it’s constant, strong, and more affordable than the magnetic option.

You don’t have to depend on the costly demands of the gym, and you can start setting your own terms by buying a spin bike for yourself – consider it a healthy investment for a healthy future.

Plus, riding in the nude to your favorite grooves sounds pretty tempting for many – but, for your neighbors sake, close your curtains first.