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Exercise bikes are the most popular exercise equipment on the market. Favored because of their low impact workout, easy cardio burn, and convenience, their predominance is unlikely to change anytime soon. You can get this equipment in a range of options from mini exercise bikes, spin bikes, uprights, recumbent and folding options. This article is not about comparing all the options but looking at fold-up bikes and deciding are folding exercise bikes any good? Should you spend a ton of money on a fold-able exercise bike or just go for a basic upright?
The best way to assess this question is to simply look at the pros and cons of this option:
Quick Navigation
- 1 Pro’s
- 2 Con’s
- 3 So are folding exercise bikes any good?
- 4 5 Great Folding Exercise Bikes
- 5 Our Recommendations
- 6 What To Look For – Buying Guide
Pro’s
There are a lot of positive reasons to opt for a fold away exercise bike so let’s look at them one by one.
Small Footprint
Lots of us live in smaller apartments and houses these days. Space is at a premium. Whilst we may want a full home gym this sometimes isn’t possible. For those of us with limited space, we want equipment that is small and easy to use – or we just won’t use it regularly enough. Folding exercise bikes can be a good choice as they usually have a small footprint. This is a side-effect of constructing a lightweight machine that can be moved easily, but if you just have small rooms then a machine with a smaller footprint opens up your exercise options.
Stored Easily
With space at a premium, you may want equipment that can be stored away after use. This gear can be collapsed after use and stored in a closet or left in the corner of a room without taking up valuable space. Easy to store equipment is great if you are living in an apartment.
Relocated Easily
Folding, lightweight and small means these bikes are often easy to relocate. You can throw them in a closet when you have finished using it, you can easily relocate to watch a TV or relocate to avoid annoying someone. When you move out you can easily transport them meaning you won’t have to eBay or craigslist the item.
Usually Cheaper
These machines have to be lightweight to relocate and have to be easy to store, this essentially means your going to end up with less metal – which in turn means less cost. If you are on a budget a fold away exercise cycle can be a great option – they are usually cheaper than treadmills and other forms of equipment but can still give you a good workout even when the weather is bad.
A Good Low Impact Cardio Workout
Bikes are popular because no matter what fitness level you are at you can generally get a good cardio workout on a bike. If you are just beginning your fitness journey you may be carrying a few extra pounds. For you, a low impact workout, that does not put a strain on your joints, is ideal. Lower settings will probably boost your heartbeat up to a good working zone and get your burning calories whilst giving your heart and lungs a good workout.
If you are at a higher fitness level then exercise bikes often have higher settings that will work you out, or you can go longer to get a burn on or go “intervals” sprinting for short durations to get the workout you need. A collapsible stationary bike can be used for any of these workout styles successfully.
Con’s
It’s yin and yang – for every positive, there is a negative as the saying goes, well fold-able exercise bikes can have their negative sides. Let’s look at them here :
Lightweight Build Quality
It could be a positive if you want to move your bike around easily but I am coming from this with respect to durability. In an effort to keep costs low and maximize storage potential, ease of use, etc. some manufacturers may skimp on build quality. The best way to assess this aspect these days is simply to look at Amazon reviews, feefo, and other review led sites. Manufacturers simply can’t hide anymore – if the reviews are poor on a model you are interested in then dodge that bullet. If you can’t find reviews because the model is new or not as popular as other versions then look at the warranty – the longer the better as the manufacturer has confidence in his product, short warranties or nonexistent warranties do not inspire confidence!
Weight Restrictions
As the balance with a fold-away exercise cycle lies between storage/mobility/usability you may find that some bikes simply cannot cope with certain weights. Don’t just buy the best looking equipment without reviewing the fine detail. Check for max user weight – be assured the higher the weight the better the durability – but the bike is likely to be heavier and bulkier, would you be better just getting a standard upright? If you are a heavier set individual maybe a nonfolding item would present better value long term.
Unrealistic Pedal Action
With a lightweight, easy to move bike you are not going to get a 20kg flywheel to create a smooth pedal action, and herein lies some of the problems with folding exercise bikes – the pedal action can be less realistic and not as smooth as traditional upright exercise bikes. A magnetic resistance option is likely to be your best, smoothest choice but flywheel sizes have an impact on realism and choices are limited on foldable bikes compared to standard uprights. The cheapest folding bikes may be furnished with friction-based systems of resistance – old fashioned nylon plastic tightened to metal – these are particularly unrealistic and unsatisfactory to ride, tend to wear out quickly however are lightweight and smaller than magnetic models.
Short on features
Saving on weight/footprint/price means fewer features. Forget pre-programmed courses or workout levels, forget monitors and extensive digital feedback Wi-Fi enabled blue tooth compatible. At the entry-level end of the spectrum, there will be no monitors or electronics but you get a cheaper, lighter machine. At the top end, you get some digital functionality and usually a number of pre-set adjustment levels but that is your lot. If you like your tech, like pre-set courses to stave off boredom and like a multitude of levels to choose from a folding bike is likely to leave you dissatisfied.
So are folding exercise bikes any good?
Clearly, these bikes have their place – they are ideal for people who have less space and need to store the bike away. They are great if you need to relocate the bike to different rooms if different people are intending to use the bike. They are generally cheap so if you are on a budget they are a good option.
If you like your pre-set programs to stave off boredom, if you are heavier than others, need a realistic pedal action compared to a real bike and have no space constraints and don’t mind the bike being out in the open full time then a good solid upright is a better option for you.
5 Great Folding Exercise Bikes
Here is our selection of the five best folding exercise bikes on the market at the moment. We models we feature should cover all types of riders and scenarios:
Exerpeutic Gold 500 XLS Foldable Exercise Bike
This bike is the best choice if you are either heavy or tall, or heavy and on the shorter side. Basically of all the bikes, the Exerpeutic Gold 500 XLS Foldable Exercise Bike has the biggest max user weight capacity. Trouble with that is that it comes in pretty heavy at 52lbs as it gets its extra robust characteristics by being engineered for weight – extra thick steel and additional strengthening for the biggest guys!
It is an “x” style upright, with 8 magnetic tension settings that will fold down to circa 26x25x50 inches and a super large seat to make use as comfortable as possible for bigger guys. It has transport wheels in case you are worried by the weight – but be under no illusion, this bike is big and well built.
Generally, users really like this bike, but they do think it is for a beginner rather than someone looking for an advanced workout. There is the occasional grumble with build quality but on the whole, these bikes have a lot of happy customers.
Really, a decent foldable bike for bigger people or tall guys who need a sturdy beginner option at a reasonable price point.
Pros
For users 5 1 to 6 5 and max weight to 400lbs
Extra-large seat for comfort and support.
Folds to 26 x 25 x 58
Size in use 39 x 48 x 26
8 magnetic tension settings
Transport wheels included.
Heart rate monitor in handles
Ideal for taller or heavier people although just as usable by shorter people.
Sturdy and well built for the price.
Cons
Heavy – 51.6lbs
Issues with noise – clicking once components warmed up reported by some users.
Marcy Folding Exercise Bike
If you are average height and average weight then this is a decent all-round choice to suit most. The Marcy upright folding exercise bike has been around for a long time and that means it has had any issues ironed out. It is sturdy, smooth, quiet, and reliable. It has consistently been a decent folding upright exercise bike for years.
It has all the features you would expect – heart rate monitor in handlebars, LCD computer recording miles, miles per hour, time, etc. It comes with travel wheels and is not the heaviest but then it isn’t the lightest bike on the market either which kinda underlines its robust, reliable nature. Oh, and in comparison to other models, it folds down well!
This is our top choice if you are looking for a no-frills fold up and don’t need to worry about height or weight!
Pros
For users 5 1 to 6 3 and max weight 250lbs
8 magnetic resistance levels
Weighs 37 lbs
14 x18 x 51 folded
32 x 18 x 42 in use
Transport wheels
Handgrip heart monitor
Good reviews, quiet in use, sturdy.
Well-liked bike, ideal for beginners, suits many different users, good price point.
Cons
Occasional build quality issue – but seems fewer than other bikes though.
Xterra Fitness FB150 Folding Exercise Bike
If you are a shorter rider, let’s say a short, petite lady then this is the bike for you. Indeed, for most ladies, the Xterra Fitness FB150 is probably a good choice bike. The reason I say this is that this bike can be adjusted to suit a rider of 4ft 10 inches through to 5ft 10ins but it is also easy to handle coming in at only 32lbs and including transport wheels!
It is a great beginner bike. Smooth and quiet in operation, 8 resistance levels to get you going, a decent comfy seat so you can workout for a decent length of time and it is well-liked by users who feel it is good value, decent build quality and reliable.
It features the usual array of extras – LCD computer, heart rate monitor, and the like – but it doesn’t quite fold down as small as the Marcy – but if you aren’t the tallest this could be the best option for you!
Pros
Ideal for users 4 10 to 5 10 and max weight 225lbs
8 levels of resistance
Handgrip heart monitor
Large comfy seat
Transport wheels
Size in use 32 x 18 x 43
Weighs a lightweight 32lbs
Warranties 1-year frame, 90-day parts.
Cons
Folds to 18.1 x 18.1 floor space which is not the smallest.
Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Exercise Bike
If the Marcy folding exercise bike was sold out, or you needed slightly more weight capacity then the Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Exercise Bike is probably the model you would go for. Compared to the Marcy It doesn’t fold down as small, weighs more, and doesn’t take some of the slightly taller riders but it has a larger seat for comfort and has a strong user rating.
It comes with the usual features – LCD computer, heart rate monitor, 8 resistance levels. It is just made in a slightly more robust manner. Having said that, check out user reviews it does have some issues with inconsistent build quality like poorly fitting parts and some noise issues but the majority of users like its smooth operation, durable toughness, and decent quality.
Pros
For users 5 3 to 6 1 max user weight 300lbs
8 resistance levels
22 x 20 x 55 folded dims
Large seat
Weighs 42 lbs
1-year warranty
31 x 19 x 46 in use
Handgrip heart monitor
Highly rated bike for beginners.
Generally considered tough, smooth, and decent quality by most users.
Cons
Inconsistent build quality – noise issues on some bikes, poor-fitting parts on others.
The saddle is large but not particularly well padded.
Exerpeutic Folding Recumbent Exercise Bike
Let’s say you have a history of back issues. You would be well suited to opt for a recumbent folding exercise bike if you were in the market for a folding bike. The recumbent would take the stress off your back whilst still giving you a decent workout.
Maybe you have designs on working out or being more active whilst you work? A recumbent can be fitted below an adjustable height desk so you can pedal whilst you work!
Maybe you just want a more hands-free workout where you can read a book and stay stable whilst you pedal?
The Exerpeutic Folding Recumbent Exercise Bike would be our recommendation. It is good value, folds down reasonably well, doesn’t weigh too much, has a fairly generous max user weight, and can accommodate most but the very tallest and shortest of riders!
A lot of users give this machine the thumbs up. It is quiet, smooth, sturdy, easy to assemble, and easy to move. The seat is generous and the backrest offers loads of support. It won’t fold as small as some of the uprights but it isn’t so different it would put you off selecting it.
If a folding recumbent ticks your box, this is the model for you!
Pros
300lb weight capacity
33 x 19 x 46 in use size
20 x 17 x 54 folded
43 lbs total weight
1-year warranty
8 magnetic resistance levels
Semi recumbent design
Large seat and backrest
Can be used with a height-adjustable desk
5 2 to 6 2 user height
Hand sensors
Lcd readout
Users like this – very sturdy, quiet in use, smooth operation, easy to move, easy to assemble.
Cons
Slightly heavier than most standard upright bikes.
Not the smallest fold away (but not hugely different)
Our Recommendations
Best Folding Exercise Bike For Short People – Xterra Fitness FB150
Best Folding Exercise Bike For Heavy People – Exerpeutic Gold 500 XLS
Best Folding Exercise Bike For Tall People – Exerpeutic Gold 500 XLS
Best Folding Recumbent Exercise Bike – Exerpeutic Folding Recumbent Exercise Bike
Best Folding Exercise Bike On A Budget – Marcy Folding Exercise Bike
What To Look For – Buying Guide
Ok, so you think a folding exercise bike is for you, but did you realize the choice was huge? Not only that, but each foldable bike on offer also seems to be different. It seems to be impossible to directly compare bikes sold by different manufacturers as they make them all different.
In truth, you have to identify the best match for you. You need to consider your height, weight, how often you are going to use the machine, and how you are likely to store the bike when not in use. That way you can make a great tailor-made choice for you!
Here is what you should consider :
Max User Weight
If you want a robust bike that will last you need to consider the max user weight of the model you are interested in. Here is the thing, you need a bike that can take your weight but there is no point overdoing it!
On the one hand, you want a robust bike that won’t develop squeaks and rattles over time and have components fail because you are too heavy for it, but at the same time, you want the smallest bike possible, the easiest to move and store – that’s why you want a foldable? Right?
The way manufacturers make a more robust bike is by putting more metal in, bigger seats, tougher hinges that can all take the weight. They make them heavier, harder to store, harder to move. Kinda defeats the point of getting foldable unless you are a big person or dude…
Suitable Height
Make sure you get a bike that suits your height. Not all these folding magnetic exercise bikes are suitable for short people or for tall people. You don’t want a bike where you can’t reach the pedals and likewise, you don’t want to cramp your legs on a small bike and give yourself knee injuries!
If you are the average height you are good to go, most bikes will accommodate you. If you know you are tall (over 6 feet 1 inch) or on the shorter side (below 5 feet 9 inches) pay attention to riding height measurements.
Ride Style
Folding exercise bikes come in two distinct styles. You can opt for an upright folding magnetic exercise bike or a recumbent folding bike.
The upright options are usually cheaper, take up less space, store easily, and are easy to move around. The recumbent options can be useful if you have back issues, want to work at a desk (adjustable height desk would be required), or have problems getting comfy on a bike saddle and want a different seating arrangement (numbness gents?).
Needless to say, the recumbents are a bit more fiddly to erect, are a bit heavier so can be slightly harder to relocate and don’t quite fold in the same way as an upright with the typical “x” frame – but this is really just being picky for the sake of it!
If you have a history of back problems or envisage working out whilst behind a desk a recumbent is an admirable choice of folding exercise bike.
Machine Weight
This goes back to max user weight. Heavier options tend to be those with a higher weight capacity. The problem with heavy options is that they are difficult to move, position in closets, drag up the stairs – you get the picture! Some manufacturers try to circumvent these complaints by adding wheels.
Conversely, a machine that is too lightweight is probably not very robust and is going to end up squeaking and burning components out.
The lightest bike we recommend is 32lbs and the heaviest is 52lbs so you can see the difference in options. We would not recommend going lighter or heavier than those figures.
Seat Comfort
Easy to overlook but pretty important if you are going to be using your bike on a regular basis! Just how comfortable is that seat? Is it big enough to provide adequate support? Will the saddle nose put pressure on your perineum and make things numb?
Often the recumbents have nice wide flat seats that do not cause numbness, but if you are opting for an upright make sure you check user reviews for clues to saddle comfort. Quite a number of bikes (both uprights and recumbents) have problems with hard seats and seats that require extra padding to be comfortable – you have been warned!
Footprint
You are planning on getting a folding exercise bike because you have space issues – you want something that can be put away after use. It makes sense to check out the footprint of the machine in use and when stowed.
Many of the x frame uprights have quite a small footprint when folded but stand quite tall. Recumbents have the opposite problem, their footprint is bigger than a folded upright but they take up less vertical space.
Consider how you are going to store your bike and where you are going to store your bike before you take the plunge. Don’t forget to consider the machine weight as well. Handling a folded 52-pound bike can be a struggle if you are petite.
Price
In terms of price, many folding exercise bikes fall in the same type of price bracket, $100 to $225. Recumbents and high weight capacity bikes tend to be at the higher end simply because they have more metal involved and more complex construction.
Because folding bikes are self-limiting on features and spec – you have to be able to fold and carry them, they generally all fall within the same price category.
If you are taller or heavier then it really isn’t worth skimping on price because you will just end up with an unsuitable machine that you either won’t be able to work out on or will fall apart in months.
If you are a smaller lady you may be able to come in on bikes at the lower price range and get a decent deal because you simply don’t need a heavily engineered or oversized bike.
Basically, the difference in prices shouldn’t define your choices – concentrate on rider height, rider weight, and style of bike.
Tension Settings
Here is the thing with fold ups – they all use lightweight, small kit to produce a folding option bike. This means you are not going to get much of a real-life riding experience. They also don’t compare with a gym exercise bike or a decent nonfolding home bike. Strictly speaking, they are limited. 95% of the models on the market use magnetic tension with very small flywheels to keep weight down. This means the levels of resistance and tension are often limited (usually to about 8 distinct settings).
If you are an advanced cyclist or take spin lessons at the gym these machines won’t cut it! If you are a beginner looking for an introduction into the fitness world, or just want to do the odd workout, then a folding magnetic exercise bike could be a good option for you.
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