10 Best Cheap Stationary Bike 2026 in the United States

The MERACH Exercise Bike is a solid choice for those looking for an affordable and quiet stationary bike suitable for home use. It uses friction resistance, which isn’t as smooth as magnetic options but offers 100 levels to customize workout intensity. The bike shines in adjustability, with a 4-way adjustable seat and 2-way adjustable handlebars accommodating users from about 4'8" to 6'2" tall, making it comfortable for many body types. The sturdy triangular alloy steel frame supports up to 300 pounds, providing stability and safety.

This bike is equipped with a bright electronic LED monitor that tracks key workout stats such as time, speed, distance, and calories in real-time. Its Bluetooth connection and compatibility with fitness apps like Merach's own app, Zwift, and Google Fit add modern tracking options usually found on pricier models. Comfort features include non-slip pedals with cages, dual water bottle holders, and a tablet mount, enhancing your workout experience.

In terms of size, it occupies a moderate footprint (about 40" deep and 22" wide) and weighs 27 kg, with transport wheels making it fairly easy to move around. Noise levels are very low thanks to a silent belt drive mechanism, which is great for apartments or shared spaces. The friction resistance system may require more maintenance and doesn’t provide the same smoothness as magnetic resistance. Assembly is mostly done for you, with about 20% left to complete, and customer support is reportedly responsive. Those seeking a budget-friendly, quiet, and app-enabled exercise bike with good adjustability and solid build will find the MERACH bike a dependable pick that fits well for casual riders focusing on weight loss and body shaping at home rather than high-end performance cycling.

The Sunny Health & Fitness Smart Recumbent Bike is a solid choice if you want a low-impact, comfortable workout bike without spending too much. Its magnetic resistance offers 16 levels, allowing you to adjust the difficulty smoothly and quietly—ideal for quiet home use. Although the flywheel weight is not specified, the magnetic belt-drive system generally provides steady resistance that's easy on the joints, which is especially helpful for seniors or those recovering from injury. The bike’s adjustable cushioned seat and padded backrest add extra comfort, and the flip-handles make getting on and off easier. It also includes resistance bands to work your upper body, adding more variety to your exercise routine.

The digital display tracks key workout stats such as time, distance, calories, and heart rate via built-in sensors, and the free SunnyFit app offers numerous guided workouts and virtual tours to keep your sessions engaging. The bike is somewhat large and weighs around 64 pounds, making it less portable than some smaller models, though it does have wheels to facilitate moving it. Its 300-pound weight capacity suits most users but might not be ideal if you require a higher limit.

Features like a device holder, bottle holder, and dumbbell holder add convenience, making this bike a neat all-in-one option for home cardio exercise. If you want a quiet, comfortable bike with smart tracking features and added upper-body workouts, this model meets most needs, particularly given its price point.

The Original Peloton Bike is a well-built indoor stationary bike featuring magnetic resistance with 100 levels, allowing for very precise workout intensity adjustments. Its adjustable seat and handlebars provide decent comfort customization for users between about 4’11” and 6’5”, supporting up to 297 pounds. A standout feature is the immersive 22-inch HD touchscreen, which enhances workout engagement by offering access to a wide variety of live and on-demand classes, plus entertainment options like TV and movies. This interactive experience requires a monthly Peloton All-Access Membership, which adds to the overall cost and might not fit everyone's budget.

The bike is relatively large and heavy (135 pounds), making it less portable compared to simpler or foldable budget bikes. It also needs a dedicated space with at least 24 inches clearance around it for safe use. The magnetic resistance system is quieter and smoother than friction-based ones common in cheaper bikes, but the bike’s premium features and build quality place it outside the 'cheap' price range category. For those who value guided workouts and tech features and are willing to invest in the subscription, this bike delivers an immersive indoor cycling experience. However, simpler models might be a better fit for users seeking a very budget-friendly or more compact stationary bike without ongoing fees.