Upright Exercise Bikes Comparison
When you think of riding a bike outdoors imagine using an upright exercise bike. Body position is key to understanding how an upright exercise bike works. Upright exercise bikes simulate an outdoor bike ride perfectly allowing the rider to pedal in a vertical position.
| Exercise Bike | Sole B94 |
Schwinn 120 |
Sole LCB |
Schwinn Airdyne |
Nautilus U514 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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| Rating |
Rating: 84.5%
|
Rating: 82.4%
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Rating: 81.6%
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Rating: 79.5%
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Rating: 76.2%
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| Full Review | Read Review | Read Review | Read Review | Read Review | Read Review |
| Type | Upright | Upright | Upright | Upright | Upright |
| Resistance | 20 Levels | 16 Levels | 40 Levels | Infinite | 16 Levels |
| Frame | Durable Steel | Durable Steel | Commercial Grade Steel |
Durable Steel | Durable & Lightweight |
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| Music Ready | ![]() |
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| Speakers | ![]() |
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| Display | 9" Backlit Blue LCD | LCD | 9" Backlit Blue LCD | LCD | Backlit Blue LCD |
| Programs | 10 | 10 | 10 | 2 | 17 |
| List Price | $1,499.00 | $399.00 | $1,799.00 | $750.00 | $599.00 |
| Best Price | $799.99 | $299.00 | $1,299.99 | $625.00 | $449.00 |
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Upright exercise bikes have been around a long time and are often called stationary bikes. Upright exercise bikes are normally smaller and lighter than recumbent bikes, beginning in price around $400 for a bike with standard features. Because of the size of upright exercise bikes, they easily fit into small places. Some bikes even fold up for easy transport to other parts of the house or give you the option to take the bike with you on vacation.
The comfort level of upright exercise bikes can vary but keep in mind your body will eventually feel the effects of long rides, just like an outdoor bike. More expensive upright exercise bikes provide additional padding on the seat, pedals and handgrip areas giving you a more comfortable ride than a cheaper bike.
Upright exercise bikes include several workout programs to keep your exercise regime going. Besides users being able to define their own custom routine, workout programs target heart rate maintenance as well as weight control and body toning.
One of the benefits of using an upright exercise bike is the momentum you gain when trekking with increased resistance levels. Because you can stand up and pedal, your workout becomes harder as your resistance and speed increases. Dual action upright exercise bikes include moving arm handles giving you a complete cardiovascular workout for your arms, chest, abs and back.
There are many add-on features available if you are willing to put out more bucks for your upright exercise bike. Bikes with iPod/MP3 capability provide additional music stimulation during your workout. Set up your favorite tunes on your iPod and plug it in while you “ride” as you “jive”. Built-in speakers give you an ears-free ride eliminating irritating earphones.
Many upright exercise bikes also include access to iFit technology. iFit gives you additional resources to track your workout progress, stay toned with personal online trainer Jillian Michaels and compete in races all around the world through Google Maps.
Upright exercise bikes are the way to go if you are an avid outdoor rider looking to stay in shape during the cold winter months. Users who desire greater intensity during their workout find upright exercise bikes to be the best fit for them due to the capability to pedal standing up.
More Upright Exercise Bikes
The following did not make the Top 5 Upright Exercise Bikes, but are still worth a look:
ProForm ZX2
List Price: $599.00
The ProForm ZX2 is not only affordable but loaded with a ton of exciting features like iPod/mp3 dock, built-in speakers, EKG heart rate, Graffix Hi-Res display and two pre-defined workout games. The ProForm ZX2 is not only productive but entertaining.
Read the full ProForm ZX2 Review
Schwinn 140
List Price: $499.00
The Schwinn 140 is a reasonably priced exercise bike. The Schwinn 140 operates smoothly thanks to Eddy Current Braking Resistance (w/ 20 lb. flywheel), 16 levels of resistance and 17 pre-defined workout programs.
Read the full Schwinn 140 Review
LiveStrong LS9.9IC
List Price: $1,999.00
The LiveStrong LS9.9IC provides an enjoyable and stable ride with a 40 lb. flywheel and Kevlar drive design. The LiveStrong LS9.9IC is also equipped with Air-fit Roadside Vertical Adjustment Seat and Pulse Sensor Heart Rate Monitor.
Read the full LiveStrong LS9.9IC Review
NordicTrack GX5.0 Sport
List Price: $1,299.00
The NordicTrack GX5.0 Sport provides an enjoyable workout experience with Quick-Stop Braking Resistance (adjustable resistance), commercial grade steel frame, adjustable & padded seat, toe clips and strap pedals and wireless chest strap heart rate monitoring.
Read the full NordicTrack GX5.0 Sport Review
ProForm 290 SPX
List Price: $699.00
The ProForm 290 SPX is a quality exercise bike with adjustable resistance, cushioned seat and toe-cage pedals. The ProForm 290 SPX is a very basic exercise bike yet more than efficient in terms of delivering a solid workout experience.
Read the full ProForm 290 SPX Review
Sole SB700
List Price: $1,299.00
The Sole SB700 exercise bike offers adjustable resistance (48 lb. flywheel w/ Kevlar drive design), wireless chest strap heart rate monitor and LCD display. It's an affordable trainer with the bare essentials required to burn calories and enjoy a healthier lifestyle.
Read the full Sole SB700 Review
NordicTrack GX2 Sport
List Price: $999.00
The NordicTrack GX2 Sport is a solid entry-level exercise bike that is affordable and equipped with all the basic features. The NordicTrack GX2 Sport offers very few electronic luxuries, but delivers non-slip adjustable handlebars and oversized pedals.
Read the full NordicTrack GX2 Sport Review
LiveStrong LS28IC
List Price: Discontinued
The LiveStrong LS28IC looks and rides great thanks to the first mass produced drop handlebar system. Additionally, the LiveStrong LS28IC is a collector's item as only 500 will be produced and each purchase will benefit the fight against cancer with a personal $1,000 donation from LiveStrong.
Read the full LiveStrong LS28IC Review
NordicTrack GX3.0 Sport
List Price: Discontinued
The Nordictrack GX3.0 Sport is a quality entry-level exercise with all the basic specs and little else in terms of added features. The LCD display provides all the crucial workout data while the bike operates on a chain drive system with adjustable resistance.
Read the full NordicTrack GX3.0 Sport Review
NordicTrack C2 SI
List Price: Discontinued
The NordicTrack C2 SI is a practical trainer with 16 levels of digital resistance and compatibility with iFit. Your tunes also sound great on the built-in speakers with iPod/mp3 dock. The NordicTrack C2 SI is a quality budget trainer.
Read the full NordicTrack C2 SI Review




Hi! I'm
2 Comments
unit’s digital control panel has failed again. this the second failure since unit was purchased new (1/2009)
Hi Sheppard,
Thanks for the feedback!
It would be reasonable for it to do that once after 4 years, but if this is the 2nd time that’s not good.
This model has been discontinued, so for anyone looking for a replacement, the Schwinn 120 is a good alternative in this price range.
Have a good day,
Kyle