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5 best exercise bikes

Five established options compared for ride adjustment, resistance system, training platform, footprint, ownership cost and overall ownership value.

Updated September 12, 2026 · 8 minute read

THE QUICK ANSWER

What are the best exercise bikes?

Peloton Bike+ is our best-overall starting point based on ride adjustment, resistance system, training platform. NordicTrack X24 Bike is the leading alternative for incline simulation, while Echelon EX-5S may suit shoppers prioritizing connected value.

THE SHORTLIST

Our ranking at a glance

RankProductBest forEditorial score
1Peloton Bike+Connected classes92
2NordicTrack X24 BikeIncline simulation89
3Schwinn IC4App-flexible value86
4Bowflex VeloCore 22Leaning ride design83
5Echelon EX-5SConnected value80

Prices, availability and specifications change. Confirm current compatibility, safety instructions, total cost and return terms with the seller before purchase.

#1

Peloton Bike+

Connected classes

Compare the current specifications, included accessories, warranty and return terms before purchase.

Check price on Amazon
#2

NordicTrack X24 Bike

Incline simulation

Compare the current specifications, included accessories, warranty and return terms before purchase.

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#3

Schwinn IC4

App-flexible value

Compare the current specifications, included accessories, warranty and return terms before purchase.

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#4

Bowflex VeloCore 22

Leaning ride design

Compare the current specifications, included accessories, warranty and return terms before purchase.

Check price on Amazon
#5

Echelon EX-5S

Connected value

Compare the current specifications, included accessories, warranty and return terms before purchase.

Check price on Amazon

OUR METHOD

How the score works

This is an independent specification- and policy-based comparison, not a hands-on laboratory test. Commission percentages are excluded from scores.

  1. 25%ride adjustment
  2. 22%resistance system
  3. 20%training platform
  4. 18%footprint
  5. 15%ownership cost

Primary sources