Best Upright Exercise Bikes in Canada – Low-Impact Workout
In today’s fast-paced world, getting in an effective bout of exercise is not as easy or practical to achieve. However, of the many solutions, an upright bike can be a viable and noteworthy option that won’t put a huge dent in your wallet. Upright bikes are a type of indoor exercise bike that is compact and allows the user a host of different technologies and resistance systems that can truly tax the cardiovascular output of its users. This is great as regular cardiovascular activity has shown and proven many health benefits for extending life expectancy and overall, wellbeing. Read on to learn more about the best upright exercise bikes in Canada that you can purchase to achieve fitness goals at home.
Best Exercise Bikes For Home Use In Canada – Top Picks + Reviews
Life Fitness C1 Go Upright Exercise Bike
The Life Fitness C1 upright exercise bike is a lightweight and compact design that can fit seamlessly into any area of your home. This exercise bike is also very ergonomically designed with a standard upright seat and ergonomically designed handlebars that support your forearms in racing style and has a water bottle holder conveniently placed for easy reach.
Another key feature of the C1 upright exercise bike is its wireless heart rate monitoring system which comes with the console. The console itself is a simple LCD monitor that displays time, distance, heart rate and calories burnt. It also facilitates race mode and goal workouts to add an extra challenge.
In addition to, ergonomic handles, another positioning feature is the nonslip, self-balancing pedals which comes with ratcheting straps. This allows for a better grip on the pedals to maintain proper form when cycling.
The C1 Go is also big on energy saving. Energy saver mode minimizes how much power is drawn when the bike is on but idle. After 5 minutes of inactivity, it automatically powers down. The machine is a plug-in model with all major voltage configurations, which makes it versatile buy.
In conclusion, the C1 go is comparable to Lifecycle bikes you find in health clubs and professional gyms. It is one of the best upright exercise bikes in Canada that brings you gym-quality performance in the comfort of your own home.
Pros:
- Energy saving
- Compact design
Cons:
- Seat may be uncomfortable for some users
- No device holder
Nautilus U618 Exercise Upright Bike
This bike has a nice range of product features for the price point. Some of these key features to take note of are an enhanced Bluetooth connectivity which allows users to set, monitor and track their progress via app-based tracking tools.
Via the app is also the ability to immerse yourself in a digital virtual world that ranges from virtual courses, to exotic locales, and trails found around the globe. The console also allows adjustable sight line with dual backlit screens for easy viewing.
The handlebars are also multi position and have integrated incline and resistance controls. The bike also comes equipped with a 3-piece chrome crank system and weighted pedals for increased resistance and smooth operation.
To top things off are a full Nautilus gel seat that allow both fore and aft adjustments for a suitable fit to most users and a wireless heart rate chest strap is included together with contact hand grips to track your heart rate.
In conclusion the Nautilus U618 bikes offers a no-nonsense frill approach to providing you with all that is needed for a great bout of exercise activity with none of the additions that you don’t need or use.
Pros:
- Multi-position handlebars
- 3-piece chrome crank system
- Easy to read digital display with virtual connectivity.
Cons:
- Programs can be a bit confusing to navigate.
- Monitor failures are a common occurrence if not properly maintained.
- Built to a budget price point and doesn’t contain quality construction materials.
Proform EX Upright Exercise Bike
The Proform upright bike is another magnetic resistance upright bike which gives you a lot of power for a great price range. It has a 16 lb enhanced flywheel that is very smooth and quiet during operation so you won’t disturb your household while using it and has 25 quick digital resistance level settings.
This bike also has 2-way seat adjustment (vertical and horizontal) which gives more range to adjust comfort levels according to height and riding style. The seat is also cushioned for user comfort. Users will also be happy to know that the pedals contain adjustable straps and are extra wide to accommodate various sizes and weights (up to 300lbs capacity).
Apart from these adjustable features, the console is also able to be shifted into more comfortable positions to suit the user. It is an LCD display which shows you your calories burnt, distance, speed, heart rate and more.
Now here is the best part. This machine has 30 preset app workouts and is compatible with iFit. It comes with EKG grip pulse handles, a Bluetooth receiver and iPod compatible audio. You can listen to music while you pick your workout challenge to keep things fun and motivating.
In conclusion, this bike has something for everyone. For those who want more workouts, the iFit compatibility raises the bar. For comfort the cushioned seat and adjustable components make it easier for ‘fitting’ to the bike for better workouts.
Pros:
- More adjustable components
- iFit compatible (30 preset workout apps)
- Magnetic resistance
Cons:
- Grip pulse handles
- Seat may be too wide for some users
- Extra wide foot pedals may be hard to grip for smaller users
Schwinn MY16 130 Upright Exercise Bike
This model is a great beginner to intermediate level stationary bike. It sports a durable but compact frame (41” x 21” footprint) which makes it ideal for users who are on the smaller/shorter side or senior citizens.
One key aspect to note is that it is outfitted with 22 pre-set workouts and 20 resistance levels. The pre-set workouts are also varying degrees of intensity from beginner workouts to advanced as well as a user customizable option and 2 user profiles.
For comfort and ergonomics, the machine has an adjustable seat to lower or raise the seat to suit the user’s height or riding style. The pedals also come with adjustable straps to customize grip and shoe size for a better footing while in use. The handlebars are also adjustable for a better user experience and comes equipped with a grip heart rate monitor.
Its LCD console holds 2 data screens that allow you to track several items at once. These include, heart rate, calories burnt, pre-set workout, distance, time and other essential data you may need to keep record of your progress.
In conclusion, Schwinn 130 is a great buy for an effective and challenging home workout routine. It also has extra features such as built-in console speakers, MP3 plug in port, a USB charging port and a fan to help cool you down.
Pros:
- Wide range of pre-sets and resistance levels
- Small and compact design
- Ergonomic
Cons:
- Seat is too wide
- Grip heart rate monitors are known to provide less accuracy in tracking
Schwinn A10 Upright Bike For Home
The A10 is a low budget upright workout bike. This doesn’t mean that it can’t perform. With magnetic resistance, it is quiet enough to use while watching tv though it actually feels like an actual road bike due to its engineering.
The LCD console window carries the standard features which display time, RPM, distance, results, calories and heart rate. Heart rate is tracked via grip monitor handles. You can also use it to set one of the 6 pre-set workouts or courses which is a plus for a bike on the low budget market.
Like many models, the seat is adjustable and can fit a range of adults from 4’10” to 6’2” in height. This makes it versatile for everyday use in a shared household. It can also take a capacity of up to 275 lbs of weight which is less than most standard models. This can be attributed to the fact that it has a small footprint and takes up very little space (27.5″ L x 16.5″ W x 47.5″ H), even if it’s not a folding exercise bike.
The A10 has some additional features that make for a more enjoyable riding experience. These include a water bottle holder, media tray, MP3 input port and built-in speakers. It can also be powered by either 4 D batteries or an AC Adaptor.
To conclude, this is a low budget bike suitable for beginners or families. It may not be power packed but is still a good investment for home exercise when you don’t have a lot of space or a large budget.
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact
- Magnetic resistance
- Suitable for short and tall persons
Cons:
- May not be comfortable for heavyset persons
- Console is not backlit
- Media Tray blocks the console screen when in use
Sunny Health & Fitness Upright Bike SF-B2952
Sunny Health & Fitness are well known for manufacturing affordable exercise machines that are also high in quality. Their upright fitness bikes are definitely worth checking out. The SF-B2952 model is a magnetic resistance indoor stationary bike that sports 8 levels of resistance to challenge beginners to advanced users.
The console is simple yet easy to use and displays standard information about your workout. RPM, distance, calories and speed are easily tracked for your records. You can even track your heart rate thanks to the grip pulse sensors on the handles.
For extra stabilization you get textured non-slip pedals with foot straps to keep balance. The floor stabilizers also help to ensure your machine stands firm even on uneven floors. This bike has a 4-way adjustable seat which is a big enhancement as most models can only be adjusted 2 ways or less.
The frame is durable and can support up to 124kg in weight which is a decent feature for a low-end bike. It is also lightweight and easily transported with attached wheels to help you find the perfect spot to set up your bike.
In conclusion, this upright exercise bike is a good beginner piece of workout equipment to help you start your fitness journey. It’s light weight and has basic features but packs a good punch with its magnetic resistance levels.
Pros:
- Magnetic resistance
- 4-way adjustable seat
Cons:
- Limited resistance range
- Not enough pre-set workouts
Harison Home Upright Exercise Bike
Harison offers a solid build upright bike that is compact but supports up to 300lbs. It boasts 14 magnetic resistance levels for a wide range of intensity which is great for all levels of fitness. The resistance knob is strategically placed for easy and quick adjustments.
A great feature about this machine is that the seat is 4 way adjustable for precise customization to fit the user. This is vital to form and comfort especially if users are of varying heights and require different seating positions for optimal performance.
It also has a removable device holder which can be used with ease and comfort as needed. You can use your tablet or iPad while working out to watch videos or play music or remove it for a more focused goal.
The LCD console comes with the standard or basic data trackers for speed, time, calories burnt and distance while cycling. It doesn’t have much in the way of pre-set workouts or challenges but the device holder can help to alleviate that issue with external apps.
In short, this upright bike is basic but beneficial to any household that wants to have home gym equipment to stay healthy and fit.
Pros:
- Quiet magnetic resistance
- Removable device holder
- 4-way adjustable seat
Cons:
- Limited console functions
Marcy Exercise Upright Bike For Home Use
Marcy’s magnetic resistance upright bike is a charmer. It’s one of the cheaper options on the market that also brings quality craftsmanship and durability to the table, thus, creating a great value for investment.
It is a low budget bike but you can choose from 8 levels of resistance which isn’t bad for stationary bikes in this class. It’s also made from premium steel and is highly durable for a compact machine so you can work out hard without feeling like the bike will fall apart.
Because it is low-end, the features are not very advanced and it doesn’t have pre-sets and race mode settings. It can however track your workout statistics such as speed, calories, duration, distance and more. A built-in device holder helps make up for the lack of tech so you can use your smart phone or tablet to run other apps or workout videos.
From a comfort standpoint, the bike has adjustable seating and can accommodate a variety of user heights. This enables you to achieve proper posture and positioning for optimal workout performance. To assist with this, the pedals are weighted and counterbalanced with adjustable straps and you can easily transport your bike with its transport wheels.
To conclude, for a wallet friendly but decent upright workout bike option, this bike can suit a small household and be a great asset to all its users.
Pros:
- Durable frame
- Magnetic resistance
- Adjustable seating
Cons:
- Limited console features
A Buyer’s Guide to Upright Exercise Bikes
This style of upright exercise bike is a popular choice at gyms and home studios. It is a conventional upright seating position that closely mimics that of a real-life road bike and is a fantastic tool to engage in both a high and low intensity cardiovascular workout.
If you do decide that this option is the one for you then there are a few notable things up for consideration when looking to purchase.
Firstly, the bike should “fit” you, ensuring easy reach to the varying handlebar positions and the seat should be as comfortable to you as possibly can be. This will ensure that you can go for longer bouts of physical activity without the accelerated onset of lower back/glute pain.
The bike should also come equipped with a clear and easily readable display screen, for ease of use and should also come equipped with varying workout programs and key workout metrics such as:
- Duration of workout
- Heart rate monitor
- Distanced travelled
- Pace
- Calories burned
Another feature to consider is foot straps. This will allow you to lock in your feet and not just push on the pedals but also pull on the pedals which engages another key set of muscles, the hamstrings. Size will also be another consideration as well depending on space allocated/available in your home.
Finally, depending on your budget or preference you can get upright bikes with more advanced screens that feature Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity to stream videos, watch TV, listen to music and other convenient online apps.
Final Verdict
When choosing an upright exercise bike, apart from your budget you should also consider certain design functions. Machines that come with a wide range of pre-set workouts and other fitness challenges are a better buy because you can get more out of the bike and level up your fitness. Trackers for heart rate, calories burnt and other statistical data are also useful for recording your personal goals and milestones, Ergonomic designs such as adjustable seats and handlebars with strapped pedals are other important features to look at in order to ensure that you can fit on the bike comfortably and maintain good posture and form. Upright bikes are helpful tools to get cardiovascular workouts in when you are too busy to go to the gym or work from home!