TOP 8 magnetic exercise bikes [Selection guide + Rating]

A magnetic exercise bike is a device for sports that simulates cycling and allows you to tone your body, lose excess weight, and strengthen your heart muscle in a comfortable environment.

Features and differences

The operating principle of this exercise bike is to use magnets located inside the flywheel. As they approach, a magnetic field is formed, increasing the pressure on the pedals and creating additional resistance to movement. The user of the simulator, using a special handle, independently regulates the level of load: as the magnets approach, they increase it, while moving away, they decrease it.

Differences from belt

The operation of a belt (mechanical) simulator is based on the tension force of a belt threaded around the flywheel. Its differences from magnetic are as follows:

1. Belt exercise bikes are easy to use, widely available on the market, and have the lowest cost, while magnetic exercise bikes cost significantly more.
2. A mechanical exercise machine is not intended for intense loads; the belt tension quickly weakens, reducing resistance.
3. The movement on belt devices is uneven, often causing shocks and noise, while exercise bikes with magnets are silent and smooth.
4. Such a simulator determines only distance, speed and time without additional capabilities.

Differences from electromagnetic

An electromagnetic exercise bike is a modern multifunctional device with an advanced load distribution system. Its differences with magnetic are as follows:

1. The electromagnetic trainer operates only on mains power.
2. In order to change the training mode, you do not need to interrupt it: electronic adjustment, when you press a button, will automatically move the magnets closer or closer.
3. The device already contains training programs with load distribution.

Which exercise bike is better: electromagnetic, magnetic or belt?

When choosing a home equipment, the type of load on the pedals is one of the key criteria; the convenience of the device and its cost directly depend on it. Manufacturers offer belt, magnetic and electromagnetic systems.

How to choose

Type

There magnetic exercise machine :

1. Horizontal . Models of this type minimize the load on the spine and lower back, unloading the joints and gently developing the muscles. Used for restoration purposes.
2. Vertical . These models are close to regular cycling, where the joints are warmed up and the lower part of the body is actively worked. Classes on such a simulator include training of the respiratory and cardiovascular systems.

Adjustments

Two types of adjustment are installed on the exercise machine with

• mechanical - does not require connection to the electrical network, but all transitions must be made manually;
• electronic – the mode changes after pressing a button on the control panel, which allows you not to interrupt the workout.

Smooth ride

The weight of the flywheel affects the smoothness of acceleration and braking. The higher the mass, the better the quality of the simulator. The following weight categories are distinguished:

• up to 7 kg – used in portable devices, not stable;
• from 7 to 10 kg – average value for a standard magnetic exercise bike; provide a smooth ride;
• more than 10 kg – intended for a professional athlete; create high-quality load distribution and stability of operation.

Maximum user weight

The mass of the flywheel also determines the permissible weight of the user, which, depending on the model, ranges from one hundred to one hundred and sixty kg. You need to purchase a machine with a reserve of 10 kg, focusing on the heaviest athlete who will use it.

User height

Magnetic exercise bikes are available with seat and handlebar height adjustment, which allows you to customize the settings for people with different heights and lengths of arms and legs.

Pulse measurement

Pulse measurement is carried out by a special on-board sensor, which belongs to one of the types:

• clip – a device on a wire is attached to the user’s ear and displays average values ​​on the display of the simulator; unreliable if you don’t stretch your earlobe before classes;
• wireless – a pulse sensor is installed on the athlete’s body without a wire, which also records data on a mini-computer of the sports equipment;
• built-in – an electric field is formed on the front and rear handles of the simulator, transmitting information from the on-board sensor to the monitor; If the athlete's hands are sweaty or their palms are uneven, the readings will be erroneous.

Transport rollers

Magnetic trainers can be equipped with special rollers to move them. If the projectile needs to be moved, given its large weight, it is easier to do this on transport rollers with floor unevenness compensators.

Exploitation

The design of the magnetic exercise bike contains rotating parts and therefore requires careful handling.

1. Before installing and using the bike machine for the first time, carefully read the instructions;
2. Before starting classes, inspect the structural components for technical condition, paying main attention to screw connections. Operation of cardio equipment in a faulty condition is unacceptable;
3. To carry out the training, use appropriate sportswear;
4. Operation of the equipment in rooms with high humidity is prohibited;
5. The location should provide free space around the perimeter of the machine (from 2 meters);
6. To connect magnetic bike stations with automatic control, use sockets with grounding;
7. Replace the batteries powering the computer in a timely manner. If the simulator is not planned to be used for a long time, remove the batteries to prevent alkali leakage and, as a result, damage to the on-board computer;
8. Before starting use, if you have chronic diseases, consult a doctor;
9. To clean the magnetic exercise bike, use environmentally friendly, non-aggressive products;
10. Perform machine maintenance (lubrication) in a timely manner;
11. If the structural parts of the exercise bike fail, they must be replaced. To replace components, use original spare parts.

Popular brands

Companies that produce exercise equipment differ in their class and price range. Based on this indicator, they can be divided into 3 groups:

1. Premium class – “ Kettler”, “Nordick Track” and “Life Fitness” offer modern advanced models for demanding users with a professional bent.
2. Middle class - “Torneo”, “Body Sculpture”, “Hastting”s, “House Fit” produce devices with an optimal price-quality ratio: stable operation, average functionality, durability.
3. Economy class - “Sport Elite”, “Body Style”, “FunFit” produce exercise equipment with an affordable price, but weak characteristics: poor quality assembly, lack of a training program, etc.

Magnetic projectiles with electronic adjustment

This is a more advanced model range with a built-in servo drive; it changes the position of the magnets relative to the flywheel without direct user intervention. A small electric motor, when activated by a button on the console, automatically adjusts the pedal resistance. The devices are complemented by built-in training programs, making it easier for beginners to start exercising and for experienced athletes to diversify them.

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Pros of the solution:

• you can switch the load during training without taking breaks;
• the design is adapted for active fat-burning exercises and endurance complexes;
• convenient pre-installed programs.

When comparing which exercise bike is better - magnetic or regular belt, beginners prefer the second option due to the significant difference in price. We must not forget that models with an electronic regulator need to be connected to the network.

Reviews

Alla:

I started thinking about purchasing an exercise bike after giving birth, when my weight suddenly increased. I chose the budget model Sport Elite SE200. At the time of purchase, I knew practically nothing about the existence of a flywheel with magnetic traction, so I was just looking for an affordable price and a more or less nice appearance. For my medium-intensity workouts, this device was perfect. The only thing I don't like is that there is no bottle holder. As it turns out, this is a necessary thing while pedaling.

Sergey:

I’m sorely lacking time to go to the gym, so I’m thinking about choosing an exercise bike. Mainly paid attention to the following criteria:

• possibility of load regulation;
• heavy weight of the flywheel (I’m not small myself);
• the presence of an on-board sensor for measuring key indicators;
• absence of voluntary inhibition;
• guarantee period.

As a result, I purchased HouseFit magnetic model 8202EL. It fits all parameters, plus there are wheels for movement. When I did the repairs, I appreciated it.

Anastasia:

I start a truly good morning with a workout on the Kettler Topaz simulator! I bought it for my husband's birthday, but at first he didn't touch it. But I introduced him to sports by my example! We install the seat under ourselves and go! Now we are consistently working out at load level 8, there are 10 of them in total. Of the minuses: a weak battery on the display, which needs to be changed every month.

Characteristics of belt models

When figuring out which exercise bike is better - magnetic or belt , you need to take into account that the second option is much simpler in design, here the minimum functionality is compensated by affordable prices. Resistance is provided by a special belt that is wrapped around the flywheel; there is a knob to adjust the intensity of the load; it changes the tension of the system.

On a note! As the belt tension increases, the resistance increases; with active use, this component quickly wears out, so such simple devices cannot boast of a long service life.

Pros of a belt trainer:

• does not require power supply;
• compact and lightweight;
• low cost;
• ease of operation.

The main disadvantage is the insufficient resistance of the pedals; the option is not suitable for active and varied activities.

An alternative is magnetic simulators; they are divided according to the method of changing the load of the pedals.

Rating

The best magnetic exercise bike according to reviews Hasttings Spider SB300

Advantages:

• Has a heart rate sensor
• Availability of wheels for transportation
• Good price-quality ratio
• Comfortable (seat and steering wheel adjustments)
• Soft pedal stroke
• Many training program options
• Doesn't make noise
• Doesn't take up much space

Flaws:

• Handles are narrow
• Difficult to transport around the room

You can view a review of the Hasttings Spider SB300 exercise bike here.

The best magnetic exercise bike for home SVENSSON BODY LABS CrossLine BCM

Advantages:

• Compact
• Stable
• Smooth ride
• There is an adjustable steering wheel
• Easy
• Accurate heart rate sensor

Flaws:

• The seat is a bit hard

The best professional magnetic exercise bike for the gym FreeMotion Fitness FMEX82414 U10.2

Advantages:

• Functional
• Heavy user weight
• Many additional designs
• There is a heart rate sensor, wireless is also possible

Flaws:

• Heavy

The best recumbent magnetic exercise bike Sport Elite SE-601R

Advantages:

• Comfortable
• Comfortable
• Has a heart rate sensor
• Inexpensive

Flaws:

• Not very soft seat

Best Upright Magnetic Exercise Bike Carbon Fitness U304

Advantages:

• Comfortable
• Comfortable
• Compact
• Affordable price

Flaws:

• No

The best mini (portable) magnetic exercise bike DFC 1.2-1

Advantages:

• Not expensive
• Compact
• Beautiful appearance

Flaws:

• No heart rate sensor
• Few features

Best Inexpensive Magnetic Exercise Bike DFC B3.2

Advantages:

• Silent
• Compact
• Acceptable price
• Easy to use

Flaws:

• Hard seat

Best Folding Magnetic Exercise Bike DFC 917ES1

Advantages:

• Easy assembly
• Compact
• Easy to use
• Acceptable price

Flaws:

• Saddle too short

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