If you’re looking for the best under-desk bike, you’ve come to the right place.
Under-desk bikes, more or less, offer the same functionality as a full-sized exercise bike. The difference is that these are smaller, can fit under or on top of your desk, and you can use them while you work. Other than that, they are also an excellent machine to work on injuries slowly as well.
That said, if you were on the market looking to purchase an under-desk bike, you might’ve come across many options, which might’ve left you confused about which one you should get.
This is where we come in. We understand that picking one option from a sea of products can be daunting. To that end, we’ve put together this in-depth buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
Our list of best under-desk bikes
- Best under-desk bike overall: DeskCycle 2
- Best under-desk bike overall: DeskCycle Ellipse
- Best budget under-desk bike: Vaunn Under-desk bike 565E
How we picked
We looked at and researched various options from different brands and compared them based on their build quality, resistance level, size, price, and other important features to present you with the best options to make an informed decision. We’re always updating our guides with the latest information, so check back for newer additions.
Best under-desk bike overall
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| Pros | Cons |
| 39 pounds of resistance | Doesn’t have any handles |
| Bluetooth connectivity | |
| Adjustable height |
If you’re looking for the best under-desk bike, we recommend you check out the DeskCycle 2.
For starters, this under-desk bike weighs approximately 23 pounds/10kg and is made from alloy steel, which should make it durable enough to last a long time.
The big factor that most people are concerned about is where under-desk bikes will fit under their particular desks. To address that issue, the DeskCycle 2’s height is adjustable from 9”-10” and should be compatible with desks as low as 27” as per the manufacturer.
It offers 8 levels and 39 pounds of magnetic resistance that can be adjusted by turning the knob left or right. The sealed bearings and other components are carefully designed for utmost durability and add to this magnetic resistance, and you’ve got yourself a smooth and quiet pedaling experience.
The straps on the pedals can be adjusted, meaning that regardless of your foot or shoe size, you should have a comfortable grip on the bi-directional and stay-flat pedals.
The DeskCycle 2 also features a detachable LCD, which shows information, such as distance traveled, calories burned, RPM, and time elapsed. However, there are other ways to track your performance as well.
It comes with Bluetooth that lets you connect your mobile or fitness device, such as a FitBit or Apple Watch, which will display the performance metrics. On top of that, you can download the DeskCycle app and track your progress on that as well.
Overall, the DeskCycle 2 should be easy to assemble, and it can track up to 10,000 minutes of activity. These aspects, combined with all the others, make it one of the best under-desk bikes available on the market today.
Best under-desk bike for seniors
No products found.
| Pros | Cons |
| 40 pounds of magnetic resistance | Might be heavy for older adults to move around |
| Extra large pedals | |
| Handle and lock for easy transportation |
If you’re looking for the best under-desk bike for seniors, look no further than the DeskCycle Ellipse.
First off, the DeskCycle Ellipse offers 8 levels and 40 pounds of magnetic resistance that is adjustable with a simple twist of the knob on the bottom. It weighs around 13.68kg/30 pounds, which might make it a bit difficult for older adults to carry. However, it does come with a handle and two straps with knots at the end that should hold the pedals in place if you’re moving it somewhere.
A neat feature of the DeskCycle Ellipse is that it has extra large pedals that change the motion depending on where you place your feet. For instance, placing your feet on the lower end should give you a lower and flatter motion. On the other hand, if you place them on the top end, it should result in a more circular motion.
The operation of this machine is super quiet, courtesy of its magnetic resistance, flywheel, and sturdy base. It also has a detachable LCD that displays information like time, RPM, calories burned, and track revolutions. You can remove the LCD and put it on your desk to better track your performance. This is possible as it comes with a cord that connects with the machine and at the back of the display.
You can also track your progress via the mobile app or Bluetooth connecting your Apple Watch or Fitbit. All these factors of the DeskCycle Ellipse make it one of the best under-desk bikes for seniors, particularly its extra large pedals and super quiet operation.
Best budget under-desk bike
No products found.
| Pros | Cons |
| Lightweight | Doesn’t have a high resistance level |
| Dual functionality | |
| Foldable |
If you’re looking for the best pocket-friendly under-desk bike, then the Vaunn under-desk bike 565E might be your option.
The first thing you need to know about this under-desk bike is that it costs $39.99 (at the time of writing). This makes it one of the most affordable options out there, and it’s not just light on your pocket, it’s light in weight too, weighing around 5.4 pounds/2.4 kg.
It sports an alloy steel frame with a wide base that makes it durable and sturdy enough when pedaling. It also has a height clearance of 13”, which should allow it to sit comfortably underneath most desks.
The under-desk bike can also be folded, bringing its height to 7”, enabling you to carry it easily. On top of that, it has dual functionality. What this means is that it can be used for your arms and shoulders by placing it on top of the desk or for your legs by placing it underneath it.
It also features a knob that can be used to adjust the resistance but keep in mind that it’s rated for light to medium resistance, which should make it an ideal option for people in physiotherapy, children, and even older adults.
The Vaunn 565E has an electronic display that shows information like time, count, and calories. This should help you keep track of your progress and adjust it accordingly. So, the features it brings to the table in such a low price bracket make it one of the best budget under-desk bikes out there,
How to pick the best under-desk bike
Before investing in any gym equipment, including an under-desk bike, there are a couple of factors that you need to consider. We’ve listed some of them here:
Budget
The first thing you need to consider is how much you’re willing to spend on an under-desk bike. When you look at the options available, you’ll find everything from low to high-end products, but there is no point in looking at a high-end option if it doesn’t fit your budget. So, filter the available options based on your budget and then pick one that best suits your requirements.
Space
Measure the space under your desk and select an option that could easily fit in while leaving room for your legs. If you purchase an under-desk bike that is too big to fit properly, then your legs probably won’t have enough room to move around. So, keep the available space in mind while making a decision.
Resistance level
The resistance level depends on what your goals are. If you want to tone your legs, look for options that offer various resistance levels you can switch between. On the other hand, if you like some light workout or are recommended pedal exercisers or mini exercise bikes as physiotherapy, selecting an option with light to medium resistance should be the correct choice.
Are under-desk ellipticals or bikes better?
The answer to this question boils down to preference. Both machines are good for toning muscles and burning some calories, but the motion determines what you’re most comfortable with. Ellipticals provide a back-and-forth motion, whereas bikes have a circular motion, but both, more or less, work the same muscles.
Verdict
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After considering the different features and specifications of the under-desk bikes listed, we found that one bike was above the rest: the DeskCycle 2. Now, this decision has some weight behind it. First, it doesn’t weigh much, measuring around 23 pounds, which should make it light enough to carry. It has an adjustable height and offers 39 pounds of adjustable resistance. It also has bi-directional pedals and Bluetooth connectivity, enabling you to track your progress via fitness devices such as Fitbit and Apple Watch.
If you’re looking to explore more options that will push your limits, check out our best vertical climber guide for the best picks.
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