Best Exercise Bike This Year

The Look

The Ultrasport F-Bike is a basic exercise bike that is soundly constructed and folds away to a very compact 110cm high, 80cm long and just 45cm wide (that’s 3’ 8” high, 2’ 8” long and 1’ 6” wide).

It comes in a range of colours and has a smart, no-nonsense design. Apart from the black and silver model the range of colours only differs in the trimmings such as the handle-bars and the control console.

The Feel

The F-Bike is heavy enough to make it a solid and stable piece of equipment but not so heavy that it’s difficult to move around, weighing in at 14 kilos (that’s 30.8 pounds). The handle-bars are comfortable even during long use but unfortunately the seat isn’t so comfortable after a while, thankfully this is easy to remedy by purchasing one of the many available gel seat-covers to soften the ride.

This exercise bike may not be suitable for advanced users since the resistance level at max may not be tough enough for them, but it’s more than enough for anyone that’s trying to get into shape. It also may not be suitable if you’re under 158cm (that’s 5’ 3”) tall since you probably won’t be able to reach the pedals.

The bike folds away very compactly so it’s perfect for people living in small flats or those who have small gym rooms.

The Experience

Once you’ve bought a gel seat-cover the F-Bike is a pleasure to use, with all the usual measurements available on the control console such as time, speed and distance. It’s not super-silent but it is quiet in operation so won’t wake the neighbours up if you fancy a late-night or early-morning session!

The bike supports people who weigh up to 100 kilos (that’s 220 pounds) so it’s suitable for most people and feels very stable in use due to its solid construction.

The display-screen on the console is a little small but does its job adequately, showing speed, distance, time, calories and heart-rate and also has the scan function which cycles through all modes. The console requires batteries which are included.

The Features

The seat on this exercise bike is adjustable between 78 to 86 centimetres, and as mentioned above this means it probably isn’t suitable for you if you are under 158cm or 5’ 3”. It’s main highlight is that it folds away very compactly so won’t be getting in your way when stored.

This bike has 8 levels of magnetic resistance, the highest of which may not be enough if you are an advanced user but will be plenty for most of us that are on the road to fitness.

It’s also available in a variant that has a work desk so that you can work on your laptop while getting fit! The bike is quiet in operation though not totally silent, but you won’t wake your partner or neighbours if using it at night.

The heart-rate monitor contact-points are on the side of each handle-bar and by all reports the monitor is accurate.

The Final Word

The Ultrasport F-Bike is a no-frills exercise bike that is solidly-built and folds away very compactly. It’s available in a range of colours and has all of the basic features you need from a budget exercise bike. The addition of a gel seat-cover greatly enhances the experience but this bike isn’t suitable for people under 158cm or 5’ 3”.

[Back to Top]

The Look

The Finether is a no-fuss entry level magnetic exercise bike that conveniently folds away for easy storage making it an ideal piece of fitness equipment for a small flat or bedroom.

It has a black frame with red detailing around the LCD monitor and pedals, and black padded seat and handle bars. The  detachable LCD monitor displays time, distance, calories burned and heart rate.

The seat can be adjusted from 29.9 to 33.5 inches, and there are also straps on the pedals that can be adjusted to fit your feet size.

The simple design will appeal to entry-level buyers who don’t want to be overwhelmed by a complex machine and want the added convenience of being able to fold their bike away after a session.

The Feel

Considering its basic design, the Finether is surprisingly sturdy, although the weight capacity is only up to 100 kgs. Stability is helped by the levelling stabiliser end caps and non-slip rubber pedals.

It’s also very comfortable. The seat cushion is well padded and the PE foam handle bars ensure a good grip.

The Experience

Set up is straightforward enough and the assembly instructions are easy to follow. The LCD monitor works with 2 AA batteries and is easy to read so you can keep an eye on your progress, no problem.

Heart rate is automatically measured by pulse grip sensors built into the handlebars. The sensors aren’t 100% accurate but will at least give you a general idea to mark your progress.

The Finether has 8 magnetic tension levels via a knob that you can easily adjust without getting off the bike. There’s enough tension there for beginners and those who want a basic workout, but it won’t be challenging enough for experienced users.

The bike offers a comfortable and quiet ride so you can exercise at any time of the day or evening without disturbing others; a definite plus if you want to set it up in the lounge and watch TV with your family while you workout.

Portability of this bike is another plus point. If space is limited, you can easily fold it up and store it under the bed or even behind the sofa when it’s not in use. This is also ideal if you have young children and you don’t want them climbing onto the bike and risking injury.

The Features

The LCD monitor is very user-friendly and clearly displays time, distance, calories burned and heart rate. It can be detached from the bike for added portability.

The built-in heart rate monitor is a handy feature and will automatically monitor your pulse rate when you grip the handle bars.

The bike can be easily folded away for compact storage, and the small wheels on the stabiliser make it even easier to move from room to room.

The seat height and pedals straps can be adjusted to fit your size for a more customised experience, while the comfortable, padded seat is ideal for longer sessions.

The solid flywheel has 8 magnetic resistance levels if you want to push yourself for a more challenging workout.

Levelling stabiliser end caps give a safer and more stable ride, even on uneven floors.

The Final Word

The Finether is a nice looking, cleverly designed exercise bike offering a stable, comfortable and noise-free ride. It’s not challenging enough to satisfy dedicated fitness fanatics and experienced users, but it will more than cover the needs of beginners or those who just want a light workout in the comfort of their own home.

The added convenience of being able to fold it up and store it away makes the Finether a great buy, especially if you don’t have much space.

[Back to Top]

The Look

With the XS Sports Pro you get 2 pieces of fitness equipment in one machine at a very reasonable price. The XS can be used as a walking cross trainer or as an exercise bike.

The sturdy steel frame is available in either black or silver, and the machine itself is compact enough to fit snugly into the corner of your room without taking up too much space.

The XS features moving stride bars for a full upper body workout and an adjustable seat so you can sit down and use it as a bike. The flywheel is mounted at the front of the machine for added stability.

Rather than small pedals, the XS has large platforms which can accommodate feet up to a UK size 12.

The XS comes with a multi-functional LCD screen monitor which displays time, speed, distance, calories burned and heart rate.

The Feel

The XS is easy to use and the large foot platforms, adjustable seat and handle bars mean you can customise the machine for a more comfortable workout no matter how tall or heavy you are. Weight capacity is impressive, up to 110kgs, so the XS can be easily used by heavier users.

On a negative note, the seat is made from hard plastic and is very uncomfortable, so you’d be better off buying an additional padded seat cover if you use the exercise bike function regularly.

The Experience

The XS comes with straightforward instructions, although most reviewers reckoned it took around an hour or so to set up.

If both the cross trainer and bike functions are used, you’ll get a good all-round workout for legs, hips, buttocks, arms and shoulders. The flywheel works in both directions so you can also peddle backwards; great for toning the hamstrings. The motion of the pedal platforms simulate walking, allowing you a satisfactory cardio workout without putting strain on your knees.

The XS is in the budget price range and this apparent when it comes to the LCD monitor. It only has the basic functions you’d expect with a lower priced workout machine: time, distance travelled, calories burned and speed. It doesn’t have speakers or smartphone capabilities that you get with more expensive models, although it does have a heart rate monitor which is built into the handle bar grips.

If you want to push yourself and prefer more of a challenge, the resistance dial enables you to have a higher intensity workout.

The real let down is the seat; hard, plastic and very uncomfortable.  If you use the bike function a lot, you’ll need to buy extra seat padding.

The Features

Choose between the cross training walking function to work out standing up, or sit down and use the XS as an exercise bike. By taking advantage of both functions you’ll get an all-round upper and lower body workout.

The foot platforms move in both directions, forwards and backwards, so you can tone up your hamstrings at the back, as well as your quadricep muscles in the front of your thighs.

The LCD monitor is fairly basic, but still handy for displaying the essentials such as time, distance travelled and calories burned during a session.

The monitor will also display your heart rate during your workout. The pulse rate sensors are conveniently located in the handle bars and will automatically measure your heart rate when you grip them.

The XS has wheels at the front which makes it easier to move from room to room.

The Final Word

The XS lacks the sophistication and comfort features of more expensive models, but considering you get 2 fitness machines in 1, it’s a great price to pay. The cross trainer and bike systems work well and the machine feels robust enough to last a long time. A recommended buy if you want a full body workout without spending a fortune.

[Back to Top]

The Look

There’s no mistaking the distinctive look of the Ultrasport F-Bike 150.  You’ll either love or hate its curvy shape. But there’s a reasoning behind the curves. The 150 has been purposefully shaped to fold away more compactly. In fact it’s a thoughtful design feature that appeals to many buyers.

You may have noted another version of the same model: the 200B. Basically it’s the 150, but with an additional back rest which is meant to correct posture or give extra support for those with back problems. Apart from the back rest, the design is identical in every other way.

The 150 comes with a detachable LCD monitor which displays the time, distance travelled, speed, calories burned and pulse rate which is monitored via sensors in the black, curved handle bars.

The Feel

The 150 is surprisingly more solid and sturdy than it looks, delivering a smooth and fairly comfortable workout experience. The padded seat is large, wide and comfortable enough for a 20 minute session. For longer sessions you may need to buy an additional gel seat pad.

However, the 150 isn’t a one size fits all exercise bike. The seat, even on the lowest setting, is still a bit high for shorter users under 5ft who may also find that the distance between the seat and the handle is too far apart for comfort. On the other hand, taller users over 6ft may find the leg length too short.

The Experience

The 150 is easy enough to assemble. Instructions are straightforward and tools are included to tighten up the screws and bolts. On average most reviewers found it only took around 20 minutes to assemble.

The ride is smooth and very quiet, so ideal for those who want to exercise early in the morning or late in the evening without disturbing others in the household. There are 8 resistance levels, but they won’t challenge experienced users. However, even the manufacturers state that the 150 is designed for light/occasional use, so it’s better suited for gentle exercise rather than a sweat inducing, intense workout.

The LCD monitor is rather flimsy and cheap looking. It’s not very well lit and may be difficult to read in low light conditions. It displays the basic essentials: time, distance travelled, speed, calories burned and pulse rate. But some users complained that the pulse rate readings were inaccurate and not to be relied upon.

The Features

The most notable feature of the 150 is that it’s extremely compact and portable. The distinctive curved design folds away easily so the bike can be stored without problem under a bed or in a cupboard when not in use. A definite plus point if you have a small home and space is limited.

The LCD monitor is basic, but displays the essentials. Pulse rate is monitored via sensors in the handle bars. If readings aren’t a priority you can always detach the monitor.

The 200B version comes with additional back support to improve your posture or for extra support for those with back problems.

The Final Word

The Ultrasport F-Bike 150 will never satisfy serious fitness fans who expect a more challenging range of resistance levels. Neither is it suitable for those who want more gadgetry and high tech controls. But the 150 is a well-built, cleverly designed exercise bike which delivers a quiet and smooth ride. It’s ideal for gentle morning exercise routines, elderly users who want to keep up their activity levels, and those who want the convenience of a compact, foldable bike that’s easy to store.

[Back to Top]

The Look

The Pleny fitness exercise bike has an attractive curved, heavy duty steel frame which you can fold up for compact and easy storage. It comes in a stylish black colour with silver and chrome detailing.

The Pleny comes with an easy-to-read LCD screen monitor which displays the usuals: time, distance traveled, speed and calories burned, as well as heart rate which is monitored via the hand pulse sensors in the handlebars.

The large, wide seat can be adjusted for different heights and the weight capacity is a generous 135kgs making it a good all-rounder for all sizes.

The Feel

Considering its fairly lightweight frame, the Pleny feels sturdy and robust, offering a stable and safe ride.

Its distinctive curved design also makes it easier to get on and off, making it a particularly suitable fitness bike for elderly users or those with mobility problems.

The Experience

The Pleny is very easy to assemble. The main body comes in one part, so it’s just a case of attaching the seat, pedals, and monitor. The assembling instructions are easy to follow and tightening tools are also included, as well as a handy stretching guide for before and after your cycling workout.

As well as offering a smooth ride, the Pleny is extremely silent when in use. This is a definite plus point for those who want to exercise early in the morning without disturbing other members of the household, or want to cycle while watching TV.

Although the frame is lightweight, it feels stable enough, even for heavier users. The textured anti-slip pedals also have adjustable straps to make you feel even more secure, so you don’t have to worry about your feet slipping.

The Pleny has certainly been designed for user-friendliness. The monitor is easy to read, the bike itself is quick and easy to fold up and store, so it’s ideal for small flats where space is limited, and it also has wheels so you don’t have to pick it up when moving it.

Considering its reasonable price, the 16 magnetic resistance levels are a surprising feature, offering experienced users a greater range of resistance to work against.

The large, wide seat is well padded providing a comfortable ride even for heavier users. It can also be adjusted to suit both tall and short users. It’s a pity the handlebars can’t be adjusted too.

The Features

The Pleny has 16 magnetic resistance levels offering a smooth and silent ride for beginners and experienced users alike.

The distinctive curved design allows the bike to be folded up to half its size and stored away when not in use.

The bike is particularly user-friendly. It’s easy to get on and off, and also has built-in transport wheels, so can be easily moved, making it a particularly appealing buy for elderly and physically impaired users. It also features a high-end curved crank arm to avoid you constantly hitting the crankset with your heel.

The pedals are textured and anti-slip with adjustable straps for added stability. They can be pedalled in backward and forward directions so you can exercise both the front and the back thigh muscles.

The LCD is easy to read and displays time, distance travelled, speed and calories burned. Heart rate can be measured via the sensors built into the handle bars.

The Final Word

The Pleny is a great fitness bike at a reasonable price. It isn’t ever going to compete with higher quality, more expensive models, but it’s an ideal bike for all the family to use. Compact, foldable and incredibly user-friendly, it’s a good choice for homes with limited space and elderly or physically impaired users who want a smooth, silent fitness bike that’s easy to use.

[Back to Top]

The Look

The 2018 XS Sports Aerobic Indoor Training Exercise Bike is a sturdy looking piece of fitness equipment with a massive 15kg chain driven flywheel and heavy duty frame that looks robust enough to give even heavier users a safe and reliable workout.

There are some additional accessories in this 2018 updated version. There’s a red, aluminium water bottle and holder, well-positioned so you can take a drink without getting off the bike. The new version also has an emergency stop lever for added safety.

The LCD screen is a basic design and easy to use, just push the button to display speed, time, distance covered and calories burned. You can also monitor your pulse rate via the sensors incorporated in the curved handle bars.

The Feel

The XS Sports doesn’t look like the most comfortable exercise bike and it’s not the most sleek and stylish model on the market. But it is designed for function rather than looks.

The most notable and welcome features are the circular elbow pads on the lower part of the handle bars which provide an extra level of comfort when leaning on the handle bars during and intense workouts.

The handle bars and the seat are full adjustable so taller or shorter users can customise their position for better comfort and improved posture.

Although the seat is padded, it’s not that comfortable for long sessions, and an additional gel padded cushion may be needed.

The XS Sports looks a bit cumbersome, however it’s surprisingly compact and light, weighing only 35 kgs. It also had small transport wheels so you don’t need to pick it up when moving it.

The Experience

Despite it’s complicated looking design, the XS Sports is quick and easy to assemble even without reading the instructions.

The bike feels strong and sturdy, and offers a smooth and quiet ride. The adjustable resistance levels are very sensitive and are challenging enough to give even experienced users a decent workout, while the elbow rests allow you to push yourself even harder and really lean into the handle bars for a more intense, high speed workout.

The pedals work in both directions, so you can work your thigh muscles and hamstrings, and you can even stand up for a true ‘spinning’ experience.

The Features

The 15 kg chain flywheel offers a great range of resistance levels. Turn it up and you can really feel the difference. This means the XS Sport is an ideal bike for everyone, from beginners wanting a gentle workout to intermediate and advanced users who want more of a challenge. The two way chain allows you to pedal in both directions to work all your leg muscles for a complete workout.

The fully adjustable handle bars and seat can be customised to suit your needs, and the weight max is a generous 120 kgs, so even heavy and taller users can ride in comfort.

The circular elbow rests provide another level of comfort and allow you to lean into the handle bars for a more intense workout, while the emergency lever provides another level of safety.

A small but welcome feature is the bottle and holder, so you can rehydrate without stopping your workout.

The LCD display allows you to easily read your progress. You can also check your pulse rate thanks to the built-in handle bar sensors, a great feature which you’d only usually expect on a more expensive model.

The Final Word

The versatility of the XS Sports 2018 makes it a great all round exercise bike for all the family and those at different fitness levels. Although the seat comfort lets it down a bit, generally speaking it is a well-functioning, good quality bike, providing great value for money.

[Back to Top]

The Look

With a compact, sleek and simple design, the York Fitness Active 110 looks just how you’d expect an indoor exercise bike to be.

It’s a good looking bike, built with the quality this well known and established brand is known for. It comes with transport wheels to easily move it from room to room, but its compact size, only 53 cm wide, and attractive design means you can position it discreetly in the corner of the room without it taking up too much space.

The 110 has a larger than average padded seat and vertical handle bars that can both be adjusted to suit your height.

The 110 also features a large 5.75 inch LCD screen which displays speed, distance, calories burned as well as pulse rate measured via sensors in the handle bars. It also displays the time and date.

The Feel

The 110 is extremely lightweight, only 22.5 kgs. However, it feels stable and sturdy enough, even for heavier users. The pedal bars also give a sense of stability, preventing your feet from slipping during faster, more intensive workouts.

The seat is wider than you’d expect for an indoor bike, and it’s also well padded, offering a higher comfort level for longer workouts.

Although the LCD is larger than most, there’s plenty of room between the handle bars, so you don’t have to worry about knocking against it during your workout.

The Experience

Assembly isn’t the quickest or easiest, it’s almost a workout in itself! Once it’s ready to use, you can adjust the handle bars and seat to suit your height. The seat can be moved horizontally as well as vertically, unfortunately the handle bars can only be moved up or down, so you need to move the seat for a better reach.

The LCD screen is easy to read and comes with batteries already installed. However, it doesn’t have an automatic screen turn off feature which would have helped save battery life.

Thanks to the 4 kg flywheel and the large padded seat, the 110 is smooth, comfortable and a pleasure to ride. It’s also quiet enough on the lower settings to watch TV or a movie while you’re pedalling, although it does get a bit noisy on the higher settings.

The 8 resistance levels are easy to adjust and provide a more challenging workout for those who want to push themselves. It also has 4 pre set programmes and a fitness test to help you co-ordinate your workouts more effectively. Some reviewers complained about the limited programmes, but considering the price, 4 pre sets should be more than enough for the average user. A wider choice of programmes means having to pay more for a higher-end model.

The pulse rate readings aren’t that accurate, especially if your palms are sweaty, but this is an issue with a lot of indoor exercise bikes.

The Features

The 110 comes with a handy water bottle holder so you can drink without stopping your workout.

The large display is easy to read and work helping you to monitor your progress. As well as the usual readings: speed, distance, calories burned, it also displays the time and date.

The 4 pre-set programmes and fitness test are welcome additional features for a bike in this price range.

The 8 magnetic resistance levels give you a more challenging ride and are ideal for those who want a more intensive workout.

The Final Word

The York 110 is a great looking, high quality exercise bike, ideal for beginners as well as providing an alternative rainy day workout for more experienced users. Its compact design means you can keep it in the corner of the lounge or bedroom without taking up too much space.

Comfortable and durable, it’s a great entry level bike providing a satisfying workout for those who want progressively harder challenges without having to spend a fortune.

[Back to Top]

The Look

DKN has a well-earned reputation for building high quality exercises bikes, and in terms of looks and design, the AM-E doesn’t disappoint. The black and silver frame is as sleek and stylish as they come for a bike in this price range.

Not only does it look good, the AM-E is compact and lightweight so is ideal even for homes where space is limited.

The blue LCD screen displays all the basic information: RPM, speed, distance travelled, calories and pulse rate via a wireless receiver built into the console (you’ll need a compatible chest strap for this function). There’s a lot of data on the screen, and technophobes might be put off at first, but it’s straightforward enough and fairly easy to interpret.

The Feel

Thanks to the computer controlled magnetic resistance the transition between levels is incredibly smooth and friction free.

The AM-E is a pleasure to ride and feels sturdy enough, even for heavier users or more intense workouts. It has a generous weight allowance: up to 140 kg.

It’s also easy to get on and off, so is ideal for less agile users such as those with joint problems.

However, like many indoor exercise bikes, the seat is quite hard and you may need to buy a separate gel cover if you’re planning to exercise for more than 30 minutes at a time.

The Experience

Assembly is straightforward enough, although connecting the wires up to the computer and pulse rate sensors can be a bit trick and frustrating.

The bike is incredibly silent so you can easily ride it while watching TV. The resistance levels have smooth transition thanks to the computer (no knobs have to be turned manually).

The seat can be adjusted for height and reach, and the handle bars can also be adjusted so different sized users can customise the bike for a more comfortable ride and better posture.

The computer screen also accommodates more than one user. You can set up specific user profiles for up to 4 people. Then you have 32 levels of resistance to work through, ranging from easy, gentle levels to incredibly hard higher levels which will make even the fittest users sweat. Moving up a level takes a couple of rotations to kick in, but you certainly feel the difference when it does.

Pulse rate readings are fairly accurate, although the calories burned are a bit exaggerated, so shouldn’t be relied on.

The Features

With 32 computer controlled resistance levels to work through, there’s a great range for all fitness levels, from beginners to intermediates and even advanced users who want a challenging indoor workout on cold winter days.

The AM-E is on the higher end of the budget bike price range, yet it still gives you the flexibility of 4 different personal profiles; a surprising and welcome feature you’d only usually expect on more expensive models.

Pulse rate is monitored via a Polar compatible wireless heart rate receiver that’s built into the console and can be used with a compatible chest strap. This gives you a far more accurate reading than handle bar sensors. What’s more, the resistance levels will automatically adjust to keep your heart rate measurements within your chosen range  during your workout.

You can set your own programme in manual mode, or choose one of the 12 pre set programmes for a bit more variety.

The Final Word

The DKN AM-E is a beautifully designed, well-built exercise bike, whose sleek and stylish look will appeal to many.

It’s an ideal bike for multiple users who are at different fitness levels. The ergonomic design makes it easy to use, so it’s also a great buy for those with joint and mobility problems.

Although it’s still considered a budget bike, you get a great range of features that lower priced bikes lack, so all in all the AM-E offers great value and is well worth the money.

[Back to Top]

The Look

The JLL JF150 is a budget priced entry level indoor exercise bike designed to provide a low impact workout for those who want to improve their fitness levels without spending a fortune.

Looks wise, the JF150 has a robust, attractive design that belies its low price tag. The black coloured frame is discreet enough and available with either red or blue detailing.

The JF150 has a simple LCD screen displaying all the essential readings such as time, speed, distance travelled, calories and pulse rate which is measured via sensors in the handle bars.

The seat and handle bars are fully adjustable for riders of all shapes and sizes. You can adjust the handle bars 360 degrees and the large seat can be moved vertically and horizontally to achieve optimal comfort and posture.

There’s also a handy tablet holder so you can watch online movies or listen to music from your playlist while working out.

The Feel

The range of adjustability in the seat and the handle bars means you can fully customise the bike to suit your size. Not only will it be more comfortable to ride, but it also helps you to improve your posture.

The seat is large and accommodating providing a comfortable ride even for longer sessions, avoiding the need to buy an additional seat cushion which many other models require.

Weighing only 25.5 kgs, the JF150 is compact and lightweight enough to store away in a small cupboard when not in use. Built in wheels make transportation even easier.

The Experience

Assembly is fairly straightforward and the instructions are easy to follow. Average set up time is around 30-40 minutes.

Once you’re up and running, the JF150 offers a comfortable and smooth ride thanks to the rubber belt drive which also keeps pedalling noise levels down to a minimum.

The larger than average seat offers a comfortable ride, minimising that ‘numb bum’ feeling you get with narrower seats after a long workout session. The seat and handle bars are easy to adjust so you can quickly customise the positions for different users, and the toe straps have a great grip providing an extra element of stability and safety, especially if you want to work up a bit of speed.

On a negative note, the weight allowance isn’t as generous as other models, and isn’t suitable for those weighing more than 100 kg.

There are 8 magnetic resistance levels to work through. These can be manually adjusted by turning the resistance knob which is within easy reach. Although the range isn’t as high as more expensive models, the upper levels are still challenging enough for more advanced users who want to work up a sweat.

The LCD screen is easy to use and surprisingly good quality for a bike in this price range. Unfortunately there aren’t any pre-set programmes to work through so you’ll have to set your own goals. Like with many other indoor bikes, pulse rate isn’t that accurate and can be a bit erratic so shouldn’t be relied on for precise measurements.

The Features

The JF150 may not have all the advanced features of more sophisticated models but what it lacks in gadgets, it makes up for in comfort.

The handle bars can be adjusted 360 degrees which gives you a fully customised riding experience while helping you achieve optimal posture position.

8 magnetic resistance levels can be easily adjusted for a more intense and challenging workout that will satisfy the demands of more advanced riders.

The tablet holder is a handy and very welcome feature so you can watch your favourite Netflix shows while working out.

The Final Word

The JF150 performs exactly as it should for an exercise bike in this lower budget price range. An affordable buy with the added advantage of comfort and customisation makes this a great choice for beginners who want an entry level bike that offers an enjoyable riding experience.

[Back to Top]

The Look

This budget priced, entry level exercise bike has a simple, practical design made from tubular steel and can be folded up and stored away easily.

The black coloured frame has red detailing adding a touch of style, and the PVC saddle has extra padding for more comfort.

The LCD screen is very basic, but displays all the essential data: time, distance, speed, calories and pulse rate which is measured by built-in sensors in the handle bars.

The Feel

Considering its simple and lightweight frame design, the Viavito is surprisingly sturdy. But although it folds away to a compact size which can be stored inside a wardrobe or under a bed, it  may be a little heavy for some users to move. The lack of transport wheels is a definite downside considering most exercise bikes, even in this price range, have them.

The seat is comfortable enough and the handle bars are foam padded providing a comfortable and stable grip.

The seat can be raised or lowered according to your size requirements, but even on the lowest setting, it may be a little bit high for shorter users.

The Experience

Assembly is simple enough. The main body is preassembled so it’s just a case of bolting on the pedals, seat and handle bar unit.

Resistance levels aren’t that challenging and certainly won’t satisfy intermediate and advanced users, however there’s enough for beginners and those who just want a light workout and a slight increase in resistance to build up a sweat.

The bike itself offers a smooth and silent ride so you can easily workout while watching the TV, then just fold up and store away when done.

The LCD console is very basic, but it covers the essentials such as time, distance, calories and pulse rate. It’s very easy to use, you just press the button and toggle through the readings you want to see. However, it also has a scan mode which will automatically scroll through the data every few seconds. Don’t expect any pre-set programmes or user profile settings though.

Like most handle bar sensors, the pulse rate reading isn’t 100% accurate, but it’s a handy feature that gives you a general idea so you can monitor your progress.

Weight allowance is only 100 kg, so although the bike is sturdy enough, it’s not suitable for heavier users.

The Features

The LCD screen is very easy to use and clearly display your essential data with the added benefit of an automatic scroll-through feature so you don’t have to keep pressing the button.

Pulse rate is measured via sensors in the handle bars. The handle bars have  non-slip foam padding providing a comfortable and stable ride, while preventing you from getting finger cramps if you grip tightly.  Comfort is also enhanced by the PVC padded seat which is a very welcome feature for a  bike in this price range.

The frame can be folded up and stored away in a cupboard or under the bed, making it ideal for small homes where space is limited.

The Final Word

The Viavito Onyx is never going to be able to compete with more sophisticated, higher end indoor exercise bikes, and it will never satisfy the demands of more advanced users. But considering its low price, it’s a good looking and well built piece of equipment that offers a comfortable and quiet ride without you having to spend a fortune.

If you’re looking for a basic yet practical exercise bike for gentle workouts, which you can fold away and store easily, this entry level budget bike is great value for money, and should easily satisfy your needs.

[Back to Top]