The Goldilocks of Bikes

January 31, 2022 8:37 PM

Looking for recommendations for stationary home exercise bikes that are less Peloton/spin-class and more “regular” gym bikes, for lack of a better phrase. We currently have a Schwinn 170, which has what we need features-wise, but has had reliability issues.

Must-have features:
- Magnetic resistance
- Can be adjusted for someone 5’5” and someone who’s 6’6”. Should be able rated up to 250 lbs
- Can be ridden without clips.

Desired features:
- Some sort of built-in program/change of resistance. Most of the nicer bikes seem to only change the resistance manually (I guess because they’re spin bikes?). But I’d prefer to pick a program and be able to zone out watching tv.
- Not interested in any associated fitness app or being able to take live or virtual classes, although its fine if it has them.

Price is flexible, we’re willing to pay for the right bike.

Pointers to reviews for this category of bike are also much appreciated - most of the review sites that come up when searching either seem unreliable or focus primarily on spin bikes.

posted by matildatakesovertheworld to Health & Fitness (2 answers total)

I can't point you to a specific bike, but I can recommend that you check through the range of products from Sunny Health & Fitness. I have a spin bike from this company that has held up and performed exceedingly well and was SUPER resonably priced. I was able to assemble the bike myself with no problem, and it's sturdy and heavy (in a good way...)

I bought it as a "poor woman's Peloton" and have been truly happy ... maybe they have something that fits what you're looking for.
posted by mccxxiii at 8:52 PM on January 31, 2022

I have a nautilus u616 which is made by the same company and very similar to yours. Mine is rock solid reliable. I wonder if you can just get your 170 fixed? What is wrong with yours?
posted by soylent00FF00 at 6:48 AM on February 1, 2022