When you live in an apartment and want to work out using an exercise bike, there are some considerations above and over those you have when working out in a house. This has huge control over the exercise bike you choose. Of course, it is crucial that you exercise on your bike as hard as you aspire and knowing that you can stand up to it.
However, there are other things you need to consider when you live in an apartment. These additional things include the bike’s space, how much noise it makes, and whether it comes with a foldable design.
Fortunately, there are several quiet exercise bikes you can use without annoying your neighbors or other family members. In this article, we’ve listed the 5 best exercise bikes for an apartment that will help you maintain a peaceful life while working out.
Recumbent vs. Upright Stationary Bikes
Recumbent Bikes
These bikes allow you to sit as you cycle, making them a great choice for guys who have hip, back, and knee pain. Unlike upright bikes that are a bit wobbly, recumbent bikes don’t have a lot of vibration. They have a quiet operation but cannot be used for intense workouts. If you’re looking for an intense workout, go for upright bikes that allow you to stand while you pedal.
Upright Bikes
Upright bikes resemble regular bikes, except that they come with one front wheel. This flywheel can be exposed or covered. If you’ve kids, go for a covered exercise bike. However, having an exposed wheel can help you check if the chain is in place and adjust it accordingly.
How to Make Your Exercise Bike Quieter
Purchasing a quiet exercise bike will help minimize noise vibrations; however, there are other things you can adopt to make your workout almost silent:
Use Exercise Mats
Exercise bikes produce vibrations that can potentially damage your floor and irritate your neighbors. A great way to minimize vibrations is to use a high-quality mat. These are the best for deafening vibrations before they hit the floor.
Exercise Bike Maintenance
Exercise bikes can produce noise if they’re not well maintained. Worn-out parts can easily become squeaky when used. Make sure that your bike is constantly lubricated to reduce friction. You should always oil wheel bearings, chain/belt, and pedals every six to twelve months. Since this is a stationary bike, it needs less maintenance when compared to a road bike.
Place it in an Area that Causes Less Noise Problems
Placing your exercise bike above your neighbors’ living room or bedroom is not a great idea since they spend most of their time in these places and may hear all the movements. Instead, place the equipment in the kitchen or the hallway, or any other place where noise will be reduced.
If you’re not sure about the layout of your neighbors’ apartment, you can enquire. If this is not possible, use your bike on a carpeted floor.
Consider When to Use it
If all the other options don’t work for you, you can exercise when you know you won’t disturb anyone, especially during the day.
Exercise Bikes for Apartment Buying Guide
Before choosing the best exercise bike for an apartment, there are some aspects you need to consider. The section below outlines some important details that you should keep in mind when shopping for a new exercise bike for an apartment.
Performance
A sturdy, smooth, and silent ride should be your top priority when looking for an exercise bike for an apartment. In most cases, a heavy flywheel is crucial for obtaining the desired fitness level.
Comfort
A good exercise bike must be an adjustable bike. The height, seat, frame, pedal access, etc are crucial when selecting an exercise bike. Your favorite bike should be able to accommodate you and your specific physical needs.
Optional Accessories
If you have a wide range of bikes to choose from, check the extras that will set them apart and help you make a purchase. For instance, bikes with built-in fans will offer air resistance, allowing you to cool off. If you like listening to your favorite tunes when working out, look for bikes with built-in acoustic sound systems. Also, consider a bike that comes with a water bottle holder since you don’t want to take unnecessary breaks just to have a drink of water.
Noise Levels
If you’re living in an apartment, you have to consider the noise level of a bike before buying. Some bikes are quieter than others. However, most bikes do not make unbearable noise but may become a bother to some neighbors.
Weight Limit
Stability is among the most crucial aspects of exercise since you don’t want to injure yourself when working out on a bike. If you have a wobbly bike, consider replacing it. Before making a purchase, check the weight of the bike and its stability. For easy transportation, look for one with transport wheels; otherwise, you’ll have trouble moving it from one place to another.
Enclosed Mechanics
If your apartment has small kids, be keen on the overall build of the bike. To keep your kids safe, go for a bike that has covered mechanics so that kids can get injured by the moving parts.
Price
Ultimately, the exercise bike for an apartment you select will depend on your wallet. You can find a quality bike at a great price. However, if you’re not operating on a budget, go for an exercise bike that’s designed with top-notch materials and one that promises durability.
Best Exercise Bikes for Apartment Workouts Reviews
Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Exercise Bike
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The Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Exercise Bike comes with a weight capacity of 300 pounds despite being a foldable bike. This exercise bike has everything you need from a folding exercise bike. It has a flywheel that has an eight-level magnetic tension system that makes it quiet and functional. It also has an LCD screen placed in the middle and heartbeat sensors on the handlebars.
With this exercise bike, you can easily adjust the seat height and handles to suit guys between 5.3 and 6.1ft tall. If you want to save some space in your apartment, this is a good bet.
Features
- LCD display
- Large seat
- 8 level magnetic system
- Hand pulse sensors
- 300 lb weight capacity
Pros
- Space-saving
- Thick padded seat
- Foldable design
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- The maximum weight is less than it states
Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike with Resistance
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Are you looking for an effective way to increase your cardiovascular endurance at the comfort of your apartment? Look no further! The Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike with Resistance comes with several features mostly found in large and expensive models. This bike has a compact design that makes it ideal for small spaces. It has an adjustable seat that allows you to place your legs properly as you pedal.
This exercise bike has an LCD computer display that helps you keep track of your progress by displaying speed, time, calories, and distance. It comes with 8 resistance levels that can be easily adjusted using the resistance knob under the handlebars.
Features
- LCD console
- Adjustable seat
- Recumbent handlebars
- Transport wheels
- 8 resistance levels
Pros
- 300lbs weight capacity
- Easy-to-read display
- Adjustable foot straps
- Sturdy built
Cons
- The shape of the seat is uncomfortable
XTERRA Fitness FB150 Folding Exercise Bike
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The XTERRA Fitness FB150 Folding Exercise Bike is built with a simple design that makes it ideal for exercisers who have limited space in their apartments. It comes with an encased flywheel that has a quiet operation due to the use of magnetic resistance. This bike has a 2″x1″ LCD window that helps you track distance, pulse, speed, and calories. With 8 levels of difficulty, this bike is suitable for beginners. Although the handlebar and seat are adjustable, they are ideal for guys between 4.1 and 5.1ft tall.
Features
- 2”x1” LCD window
- 3.3 lbs flywheel
- Heart rate pulse grips
- 8 levels of resistance
- Large contoured seat
Pros
- Foldable design
- Easy to transport
- Adjustable seat height
- Uses magnetic resistance
- 1-year frame warranty
Cons
- Durability is questionable
YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike Stationary
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If you’re looking for an exercise bike for an apartment that is fully adjustable for people of various heights, this is a great choice.
The YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike comes with a heavy-duty steel frame and 35lbs flywheel that guarantees durability. It has an LCD monitor that helps you track your speed, distance, odometer, and calories burned.
Additionally, it comes with an online instruction video that allows you to complete the assembly in the shortest time possible.
Features
- 35 lbs flywheel
- Non-slip pedals
- iPhone holder
- LCD monitor
Pros
- Fully adjustable
- Quiet belt drive
- 270-pound weight limit
Cons
- The seat may not be ideal for tall guys
Schwinn Recumbent Bike Series
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This recumbent bike has a sturdy design and has a strong base that greatly reduces the floor’s vibrations.
Although the bike lacks a foldable design, it comes with transportation wheels that make it easy to move. It has DualTrack blue backlit LCD screen that allows you to enjoy 29 workout programs.
With this bike, you’ll have a chance to work out with a highly ventilated and contoured seat that makes your exercises super comfortable. This makes it one of the perfect exercise bikes for the elderly.
Features
- LCD console
- 29 workout programs
- Bluetooth connectivity
- 25 levels of resistance
Pros
- Smooth and consistent workouts
- Fully adjustable seat
- Built-in speakers
- Sturdy construction
Cons
- Plastic seat and back
- Terrible warranty service
Conclusion
If you want to purchase the best exercise bikes for your apartment, the products reviewed above will help you achieve your fitness goals without disturbing your neighbors or damaging your own hearing. Pick one today and make your fitness routine fun and memorable.