Recumbent Exercise Bikes

1. Recumbent exercise bikes lean you back so your body weight is on your pelvis, not your legs. On an upright you can't push with any more than your own weight, because you'll just stand up. By leveraging against the seat back of a recumbent, you can generate almost limitless force for a workout similar to leg presses.

2. If you avoid bicycles because the seat position aggravates a back injury, give recumbent bikes a spin. The body aligns in a straighter, more natural position. Your arms can rest at your sides so you don't hunch your shoulders. Get all the power without the pain.

3. Recumbent exercise bikes are big machines. Rubber bike mats provide a safer platform for little expense: lower vibration and quieter workouts while protecting your floors and carpets.

4. Short on space? Check out portable pedal sets. They take up no more space than a pizza, and let you use your own chair or couch as the seat. Rev up while you watch movies, getting the benefits of recumbent biking for a fraction of the expense.

5. Keep track of your workouts with ease! Many recumbent exercise bikes include monitors that track your workout, calories burned and heart rate so you don't have to. Watch your progress and get renewed energy from your success. Monitors also suggest great routines to keep your workout fresh.

6. Get out your tape measure. Recumbent exercise bikes take up more space because you stretch out longer. We provide the specs on every bike so you can be sure you have room before you buy.

7. Who's the best in recumbent bikes? Some of our favorites include Schwinn, Stamina, Body Solid, and Kettler. All the best manufacturers are here, so shop worry-free.

8. Since you're sitting back, you don't have to hold onto the handlebars to stay on. So what to do with your free hands? We know people who pedal their recumbent exercise bike while playing video games, for guilt-free entertainment.

9. Athletes have long used recumbent exercise bikes to ease their way back to health after a leg injury. Without weight on your knees you can pedal, extend and push at your own pace, with complete control. Ask your physical therapist.

10. We list the weight limits of every recumbent indoor bike so you know before you buy whether it's big enough for you. Many can hold well over 300 pounds. Tip: for more heavy-duty gear, pedal over to the commercial exercise bike section.