While exercise is important no matter what age you are, it’s even more crucial when we start getting older.

Our muscles and joints must move and we need to have good circulation to keep them in proper shape while also keeping aches and pains low.

One of the easiest ways to do this is by using a recumbent bike in the comfort of your own home.

We’ve done the research trying out and reviewing countless models to bring you the very top recumbent bikes for seniors so you don’t have to. Let’s not waste any time and jump right into things!

Best Recumbent Bike For Seniors

	Sunny Health & Fitness	3G Cardio Elite Recumbent Bike	Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike
Workout Levels:	8	16	8
Capacity:	350 Pounds	350 Pounds	300 Pounds
Resistance:	Magnetic	Magnetic Flywheel	Magnetic
Arm Workout:	Yes	No	No
Bluetooth:	No	No	No

For more of my exercise equipment recommendations for seniors, have a look through these popular Women’s Workout guide links: Senior Treadmills, Senior Balance Boards, Senior Ellipticals.

Quick Answer: The 7 Best Rated Recumbent Bikes For Seniors

1. Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Bike
2. 3G Cardio Elite RB Recumbent Exercise Bike
3. Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike with Resistance ME-709
4. Vanswe Recumbent Exercise Bike 16 Levels
5. Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike
6. Exerpeutic 900XL Recumbent Exercise Bike with Pulse
7. Sunny Health & Fitness Recumbent Bike SF-RB4631

Our reviews to the top rated recumbent bikes for seniors with our comparison table and buyers guide will help you choose the right recumbent bike for you.

Recumbent Bikes for Seniors Reviews

#1 Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Bike

Consistently considered to be the best exercise recumbent bike for seniors, the Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Recumbent Bike is a great buy.

It helps to work out the entire body, so you’ll get improved mobility and blood flow in your lower and upper body.

Featuring moveable handlebars, this bike really takes things up a notch, offering the most effective workout in a short period of time.

However, if your legs are sore or you already pedaled earlier in the day, you can choose to just work out your arms by placing your feet on the floor instead of on the pedals.

While you’re holding on, you can use the integrated pulse sensors on the handlebars to know if you need to work harder or slow things down.

8 different resistance levels ensure that you can adjust it exactly to your fitness level and the level of challenge you’re ready to take on.

To keep things smooth, the magnetic resistance system will make this bike a pleasure to use, never bumpy and awkward.

What makes it even more comfortable is the extremely comfy oversized seat and back which can support and keep the spine aligned of just about any body type out there, so long as it’s under the 350-pound weight limit!

#2 3G Cardio Elite RB Recumbent Exercise Bike

Next up, we have the 3G Cardio Elite Recumbent Stationary Exercise Bike. If you don’t mind spending a little more for a quality machine, keep reading!

It has a wide range of adjustment so it can accommodate people between 5′ and 6’4″, so such a compact machine, that pretty amazing.

One of the biggest features of this model is the high-quality flywheel which offers up a smooth, quiet workout each time you sit down.

Due to this, you’ll be able to maximize your results and expend energy in a way that works for your body instead of wasting it.

In every aspect of the bike, you can tell 3G Cardio has thought of everything. The integrated steel frame is incredibly tough and made to be safe and ergonomic to keep your spine in proper alignment.

This is particularly important for older people who may have challenges with arthritis and other joint pain.

Much like the previous model, this one also comes with 8 resistance levels so you can challenge yourself without reaching a plateau.

The large display screen allows you to easily see and track your stats including calories burned, time, speed, virtual distance, total mileage, and of course heart rate.

When you’re finished, you can also use the convenient wheels to move it away from heavy traffic areas or into another room.

#3 Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike

The Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike ME-709 is the perfect alternative to the Doufit model we just covered, if you’re still trying to keep that wallet padded.

The step-through design is comprised of a tough 14-gauge steel with a powder coated finish for maximum durability.

This is also great for those who don’t have the strongest knees, as mounting is seamless and less challenging.

As the best recumbent exercise bike for seniors on a budget, the LCD display screen is very easy to read, with a crystal-clear, sharp look that shows time spent, speed, distance traveled, and calories burned in notably larger numbers.

Comfort is of the utmost importance here, with an ergonomically designed seat comprised of high-density foam and even contoured, foam-covered handles.

This offers a bit of extra support which is quite helpful during longer workouts. Counterbalanced pedals aren’t found in every bike out there, but you’ll find them here to offer max foot support and control, complete with adjustable foot straps.

Keeping consistent with 8 resistance levels, this one is no different in this regard to the others we’ve covered so far.

The tension knob is conveniently located and easy to turn in just a few seconds, making it great for intervals or “hills”.

#4 Vanswe Recumbent Exercise Bike

The Vanswe Recumbent Exercise Bike may look quite compact, but it has a lot to offer. With 16 different resistance levels, you’ll be able to do so much more with this model.

A fully adjustable seat works with a wide array of bikers and ensures you can always have your legs in the perfect position.

Convenient wheels make it easy to move when you’re done working out.Using magnetic tension, the ride will always be reliable and smooth.

Moreover, with a comfy padded seat, the backrest and cushion will help keep your correct posture while also making sure you’re never in an awkward position.

You can fully adjust the distance from the pedals, along with the recline feature – whatever works best for you.

The digital tracking panel is quite a bit different from those we’ve taken a look at as of yet. It’s not just your basic LCD screen that tracks HR, speed, distance, time, calories burned, etc.

While it does do that, it also comes with Bluetooth technology which you can use to connect to your iOS and Android devices.

It also comes with a free fitness app so you can track your workouts, no matter where you are. Additionally, they have a little tablet support so you can watch Netflix or browse the internet while you pedal away!

#5 Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike

Schwinn is unarguably one of the biggest and most well-respected bike manufacturers in the world, known for creating top-notch yet affordable options that are appropriate for the entire family.

Their 270 Recumbent Bike is exemplary of why, including a bunch of cutting-edge features that will keep your body guessing and your physical fitness improving.

If you’re dedicated to adding a cornerstone product to your home gym, this is it.

We won’t lie – this bike is quite a bit more expensive than most on our guide. However, if you want to make a quality investment, the 270 is a solid one.

The best exercise bike for seniors features a fully loaded console with DualTrack blue backlit LCD screens.

These are some of the clearest we’ve seen but are also filled with an impressive 29 workout programs and the ability to see your workout metrics without straining your neck or eyes.

Your body will never get bored nor accustomed to what it has to offer. You’ll get a whopping 25 resistance levels, which make it perfect for beginners and advanced cyclists, alike!

Technology is Schwinn’s strong suit, so naturally the bike can also by synced with the Schwinn Trainer 2 app, with tons of other popular exercise apps available currently.

With Bluetooth technology, you can  connect with friends anywhere. The RideSocial app, for example, lets you “bike” around the globe while your friends or family ride along too, tracking the pace and distance as you do.

The telemetry heart rate enabled grips monitor your heart rate so you can always know how you’re performing.

Comfort is unmatched, too. A nicely ventilated, contoured seat is thickly padded, moving along with your body to avoid sore spots and discomfort.

The aluminum slider seat rail system comes with a lever that lets you rapidly and smoothly change it to fit your height without challenges.

To finish things off, a high-speed, high inertia perimeter weighted flywheel will keep pedaling smooth and near-silent, so you can work out any time of the day or night without disturbing others.

#6 Exerpeutic 900XL Recumbent Exercise Bike with Pulse

The Exerpeutic 900XL Recumbent Exercise Bike is a luxurious model designed with your comfort in mind.

One of the most modern technology available, you’ll be able to conveniently track your progress, making it easy to accomplish goals.

Not only that, but you’re sure to be adequately entertained, thanks to all the fun additions. The step-thru design is one of the safest out there, making it easy to get on and off without worry or instability.

The heavy-duty steel frame is extremely long-lasting and can hold up to 300 pounds so you can bike with confidence.

Leg stabilizers only add to this, preventing excess movement while you’re using it.

One of our favorite features is the large seat and backrest which is made to accommodate users of all sizes. You can make quick adjustments in height, and the hand pulse monitors let you track your heartrate easily.

The 8 tension levels aren’t very plentiful but the magnetic tension control system makes it easy to switch between them.

The Smooth Torque cranking system also allows for smooth and even pedaling. To keep track of your stats, there’s a large 3.5” LCD display which shows your distance traveled, calories burned, time, speed, pulse, and scan.

With Bluetooth connectivity and a free MyCloudFitness app, you can track your workouts not only while using the bike, but from anywhere!

#7 Sunny Health & Fitness Recumbent Bike SF-RB4631

Last but not least, we have yet again another Sunny Health & Fitness model. This time, it’s the SF-RB4631 Recumbent Bike with Arm Exerciser.

This is an easy-on-the-budget bike that helps workout your entire body, for maximum efficiency in a short amount of time.

Like a few others on our guide, the RB4631 also has a step through design to allow for easy access and quick mounting/dismounting.

This leads to less stress on the lower back, knees, and more. The easy seat adjuster is also patented, so you don’t even have to get up to adjust your seat!

This is perfect if your hands aren’t quite as agile or strong as they were before.

While it does only come with 8 resistance levels, changing the intensity of the workout is very simple, as well.

This is important, especially when you’re using the arm exerciser which is perfect for loosening up the trapezius muscles, the deltoids, back and chest.

To keep you comfy while pedaling away, the large seat and back cushion keep hard bones and joints well-padded so you can workout for longer.

Finally, the built-in transportation wheels make it a breeze to move it from room-to-room or just set it out of the way to be used later.

Recumbent Bikes for Seniors Comparison Table

How to Choose the Best Recumbent Bike for Seniors – Buying Guide

Trying to choose just one model among the countless out there can be difficult. If you’re not 100% sure which features you may want.

However, if you want to get the most out of your money, then we recommend reading the buying guide below.

We have decided to take it upon ourselves to write up the user-friendly guide to make sure that by the time you’re done reading, there will be no doubt in your mind which is the perfect product for you.

Weight Limit

Even if you have a recumbent bike made of gold,  it won’t be of much help if it can’t support your weight in the first place.

While it may be easily overlooked, the weight capacity is quite possibly the most important aspect because of that.

If you think you come close to it, it’s a good idea to actually weigh yourself to make sure it’s going to work for you.

Frame

The frame makes up the bulk of a recumbent bike, so its design and materials is going to greatly affect your user experience.

If the frame isn’t sturdy, it’s going to be wobbling around which can reduce its longevity. Moreover, you’re not going to feel as confident pedaling as hard as you’d like to because of it.

That’s why we’d highly recommend getting a model with a steel frame. While steel is known to be heavier, it’s not so heavy that it’s impossible to move and will also provide you with a more effective workout.

Comfort

Remember when you were a kid and you could pretty much sleep on the ground and get a good night’s rest? Well, as we all know, the older we get, the more we value comfort.

When it comes to exercise equipment, this is particularly important as if it’s not comfortable you’re just simply not going to use it – or you’re going to use it much less than you’d planned on.

That’s why it’s a good idea to pay attention to models which have ergonomically designed seats, handles, and pedals.

The seats should be well-padded so there are no sore or uncomfortable points, and the seat back should keep your spine properly aligned, encouraging good posture.

You need to make sure that the seat can move backward and forward, too, so the bike works great for your personal height.

Display

The display is also a significant part of the bike and your goals, as it is going to display important workout statistics, your music, apps, programs and much more.

You want the display to be crisp and clear, as well as large enough that you’ll be able to easily glance at it without having to strain yourself. In this case, the bigger, the better!

Programs/Resistance Levels

The resistance and program options available to you will greatly influence how well it works for you. The levels of resistance available will vary greatly depending on the model and manufacturer.

Typically, you’re not going to see models with less than 8 resistance levels, and there are some that have more than 30!

The more levels you have, the more versatility you’ll have in your workouts and will be able to possibly go longer without hitting a plateau (if you ever do).

Some bikes take things even further than a simple display, and offer Bluetooth technology which lets you allow sync your bike to apps on your smartphone, letting you “ride” around the world with friends near and far.

This can have a notably positive affect on your motivation, further encouraging riders to continue their workout programs, and plays a huge part in accomplishing goals.

Price

How much are you willing to pay for a good recumbent bike for seniors? Before you really start shopping around, we greatly suggest figuring out a number and not going over that.

No matter what your budget is, we feel confident that there’s at least one bike on our guide that will fit into it.

Just remember that if you do have the means of spending a bit more, the extra cost will often end up paying for itself in one way or another.

By choosing a higher-quality bike, they’re typically going to last you more, run smoother, and will have more cutting edge technology.

They’ll also typically provide longer warranties so you’ll be covered for a greater amount of time than if you were to select a less expensive model.

Bike Weight

This may or may not be very important to you, depending on how you’re planning on using it.

If you don’t have a dedicated space available like in a home gym, then think of where you’re going to store it when it’s not in use and how far you’ll have to transport it each time you do.

If you plan on moving it around your home, it will pay to invest in a recumbent bike that has transport wheels. This will allow you to lift up one end of the bike and push or pull it around your home. Luckily all of the bikes on our list have them.

If you don’t have to move it around, then the weight isn’t really going to be all that important. You’ll find that most on our guide are quite light, though there are some hulks out on the market.

Parts of the Body Exercised

As you probably noticed some of the recumbent bikes have pedals or other mechanism for your arms. Obviously they all of the bikes on our list work out your legs but if you want an upper body workout that can strengthen your arms and shoulders you should look for that feature. The Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RB4708 and the SF-RB4631 both have this feature.

FAQs About Recumbent Bikes for Seniors

Q: Are recumbent bikes good for seniors?

A: Yes, they are, as they’re low impact and great on the joints. They’re not known to aggravate things like arthritis.

On the contrary, they’ve actually been proven to help with arthritis and general joint pain!

As they can be used in the comfort of their own home, those who are purchasing for loved ones with Alzheimer’s don’t have to worry about them wandering out or not feeling like they can exercise independently.

Q: Are recumbent bikes better than upright bikes?

A: Generally speaking, yes! There are a few different reasons why. Number 1, recumbent bikes take the pressure off of the lower back due to how the seat is.

In addition, the seat encourages correct posture and spinal alignment. In contrast, upright bikes will leave you with your shoulders hunched over which can, over time, cause serious issues.

Finally, the seats on recumbent bikes are known to be larger, more comfortable, and include a seat back!

Q: What kind of benefits do recumbent bikes offer users?

A: The benefits are practically endless. Recumbent bikes can help to maintain or improve mobility in your knees, shoulders (depending on if there are included pedals for the upper body), and more.

It helps to improve blood flow which can help to with recovery, along with various conditions and ailments.

Not only that, but it will help with your conditioning, as well as helping your general cardiovascular and lung health.

The bikes can help to improve your body composition, lowering body fat and improving muscle tone.

Our mental health also benefits from exercise, and even after just 1 single workout, you may notice an uptick in your self esteem and confidence!

Q: Are recumbent bikes good for bad backs?

A: Yes, they are, as they take the pressure off of the lumbar spine and encourage proper spinal alignment which can help with posture and strength.

Q: Does a recumbent bike strengthen knees?

A: Yes, they do. They strengthen the muscles and ligaments around the knees.

Q: What does recumbent bike mean?

A: It signifies that its seat places the rider in a kind of reclined position which takes the stress off of the spine, allowing them to focus on mobility and strengthening the lower (and sometimes upper) body.

Tips For Choosing Recumbent Bikes For The Elderly

#1: Make sure to choose one with at least a 6-month warranty.

A good way to look at warranties is to take them as the company attesting to a certain model’s longevity and how well they’ll perform without any difficulties.

There are some bikes that actually come with a lifetime warranty, so when you compare that to those that don’t even cover 6 months, there’s really no contest.

#2: If you’re finding it difficult to stay motivated to work out harder or at all, choose a bike with good entertainment features.

The bike doesn’t need to include elaborate or high-tech features for it to make a difference.

Even those that come with a space dedicated to securely keeping your smartphone, tablet, book, etc. so you can keep your mind busy while you work your body will be great additions.

This is particularly helpful when you’re just getting into an exercise routine and haven’t yet built up that “addiction” to adrenaline.

Eventually, your body will come to crave the endorphins you’re getting from working out and you may not even need entertainment.

#3: If you’re trying to get the best bang for your buck, get a model that comes with upper body pedals, too.

These are so helpful, and you don’t always have to use one or the other. You can opt to focus on just your lower body one day and your upper body the next, which offers a much more versatile workout experience.

However, if you’re short on time and really want to improve your efficiency and results, doing all in the same workout is a smart idea.

Summary

Now that you’ve had the opportunity to learn everything you will probably ever need to know about recumbent bikes for seniors, which one will you be incorporating in your lifestyle?

The good news is that if you’re still not 100% sure which model you want, no matter which one you choose from the above products, know you’ll be receiving one of the best in the world.

However, what’s most important is that you select the perfect product for your body and needs. We hope that our guide has helped you do just that. Thanks for tuning in and we’ll see you again shortly!

How We Researched

To come up with the top recumbent bikes for seniors, we researched a variety of sources for reviews such as Best Buy, Walmart, Target and Sears along with our own personal experience.

The authors consulted sources such as online magazines for research and reviews unbiased information.

By using Fakespot.com we tried to eliminate fake reviews and use only genuine ones.

With so many options available, the authors narrowed down the selections by using products they felt were the best value for the money.

The staff authors have a wide and varied background as fitness trainers, yoga instructors and runners. The authors have decades of experience and are eager to share their knowledge with readers.

In order to narrow down the options, we used personal experiences plus recommendations from other trainers and instructors.

Sources