Exercise Bikes

Exercise bikes are perfect for strengthening the lower body while also conditioning core stamina. They are optimal for users who seek to minimise stress on the body, strengthen the lower body, and allow for a different workout than running or cross training. Exercise bikes require little to no previous experience to operate.

At Fitness Equipment Ireland, we’ve been helping people across the country find quality fitness equipment since day one. Whether you’re looking for an upright bike for intense cardio sessions, a comfortable recumbent model for low-impact workouts, or a space-saving foldable option for smaller rooms, we’ve got you covered.  Our range includes everything from budget-friendly home exercise bikes to commercial-grade machines used in gyms throughout Dublin and beyond. We stock trusted brands like ProForm, Keiser, Forteza, Wattbike, and Bolt Strength range. Not sure which bike is right for you? Pop into our Dublin showroom to try before you buy, or give our team a call. We’re proper fitness enthusiasts ourselves and genuinely enjoy helping customers find the right kit.

Types of Exercise Bikes We Stock

Upright Exercise Bikes

Upright bikes are the most common type you’ll find in commercial gyms and home setups. They position you in a traditional cycling posture, much like you’d sit on a regular road bike. This engages your core muscles more actively and provides a more intense cardiovascular workout. If you’re reasonably fit and want something that mimics outdoor cycling, an upright bike is probably your best bet. They’re also typically more compact than recumbent models, which helps if space is at a premium.

Foldable Exercise Bikes

Living in an apartment or short on floor space? A foldable exercise bike could be the answer. These clever machines collapse down to a fraction of their working size, letting you slide them under a bed or tuck them away in a wardrobe when not in use. They’re generally lighter than standard bikes and easy to move around. While they might not offer quite the same stability as a fixed frame, modern folding bikes have come a long way and deliver perfectly decent workouts for home use.

Mini Exercise Bikes

Mini exercise bikes are compact pedal units without seats or handlebars. You can use them while sitting in your regular chair, on the sofa, or even under a desk while working. They’re excellent for maintaining circulation during long periods of sitting and work well for rehabilitation purposes. While they won’t replace a full-sized bike for serious training, they’re fantastic for keeping active throughout the day without disrupting your routine.

Spin Bike vs Exercise Bike: Which Should You Choose?

All spin bikes are exercise bikes, but not all exercise bikes are spin bikes. Spin bikes are a great option for a spin studio. They are usually more upright to emulate the experience of a road bike. Most exercise bikes are better suited for someone who is used to a regular commuter bike.For further reading, check out our blog about the benefits of a stationary bike workout to find out if a stationary bike would be effective for your workout routine.Feel free to call (01) 816 7510 or email [email protected] to talk to our dedicated team to make sure you get the best model to suit your needs.

Please Note:- Fitness Equipment Ireland now offer commercial business customers the option to finance / lease equipment via a third party lender. We will take care of the paperwork. We often receive same day approval from our clients.

Benefits of Using an Exercise Bike

Indoor cycling has remained one of Ireland’s most popular fitness activities for good reason. Here’s what regular sessions on an exercise bike can do for you:

• Cardiovascular health: Regular cycling strengthens your heart, improves blood circulation, and helps reduce the risk of heart disease. Even moderate sessions three times weekly can make a noticeable difference.
• Lower body strength: Pedalling works your quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves. Over time, you’ll notice improved muscle tone and endurance in your legs.
• Calorie burning: Depending on intensity, you can burn anywhere from 400 to 600+ calories per hour on an exercise bike. It’s one of the most efficient ways to create a calorie deficit for weight management.
• Joint-friendly exercise: Unlike running or jumping, cycling puts minimal stress on your knees, hips, and ankles. This makes it ideal for people with joint issues or those recovering from injury.
• Weather-independent workouts: Irish weather being what it is, having an indoor bike means your training schedule never gets derailed by rain, wind, or dark evenings.
• Stress reduction: Exercise releases endorphins. A 30-minute cycle can genuinely improve your mood and help you unwind after a demanding day.

Exercise Bikes for Weight Loss

Can you lose belly fat by riding an exercise bike? Absolutely. While you can’t specifically target fat loss in one area (that’s a myth), consistent cycling combined with sensible eating will reduce your overall body fat, including around your midsection. For weight loss results, aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate cycling per week, or incorporate high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions where you alternate between all-out effort and recovery periods. HIIT has been shown to be particularly effective for fat burning and improving metabolic rate.  Consistency matters more than intensity. Someone who cycles for 30 minutes five times a week will see better results than someone who does one two-hour session and then nothing for a fortnight.

Low-Impact Cardio for Joint Health

If you’ve got dodgy knees, a bad back, or you’re simply getting on a bit, exercise bikes are genuinely one of the safest cardio options available. The seated position and smooth circular pedalling motion eliminate the jarring impact you’d experience from running or jumping.  Recumbent bikes are particularly good for this. The reclined position supports your lower back whilst the pedals positioned in front reduce strain on your hips and knees. Many physiotherapists recommend them for rehabilitation after joint surgery or for managing conditions like osteoarthritis.

How to Choose the Best Exercise Bike

Shopping for an exercise bike can feel overwhelming with so many options available. Here’s what actually matters when making your decision:

1. Set your budget first. Entry-level home bikes start around €200-€400. Mid-range options with better build quality and features run €500-€1,000. Commercial-grade machines can cost €2,000 or more. Be realistic about what you need versus what you’d like.
2. Consider the resistance system. Magnetic resistance is quieter and requires less maintenance. Friction resistance tends to be found on budget models and wears over time. Air resistance (on air bikes) provides unlimited progressive resistance.
3. Check the flywheel weight. Heavier flywheels provide smoother pedalling. Look for at least 6kg for home use, 15kg+ for more serious training.
4. Think about adjustability. If multiple household members will use the bike, ensure the seat and handlebars adjust easily to accommodate different heights.
5. Check the maximum user weight. Budget bikes often have lower weight limits (100-120kg). If you’re a larger person, invest in a sturdier machine.
6. Measure your space. Upright bikes typically need about 1m x 0.5m floor space. Recumbent bikes require more length. Factor in extra room for getting on and off safely.
7. Consider connectivity. Many modern bikes offer Bluetooth connectivity, tablet holders, and compatibility with fitness apps. If you enjoy virtual classes or tracking your stats, these features add genuine value.

Exercise Bike Workout Routines

Having a bike is one thing; knowing how to use it effectively is another. Here are some workout structures to get you started:

Beginner Routine (20-30 minutes)

Start with 5 minutes of gentle pedalling to warm up. Increase to a moderate pace (you should be able to hold a conversation but feel slightly breathless) for 15-20 minutes. Finish with 5 minutes of easy pedalling to cool down. Aim for 3-4 sessions per week.

HIIT Session (20 minutes)

Warm up for 5 minutes. Then alternate between 30 seconds of all-out effort and 90 seconds of recovery for 10-12 cycles. Cool down for 3-5 minutes. This is intense but incredibly efficient for fat burning.

Endurance Ride (45-60 minutes)

Maintain a steady moderate intensity throughout. Keep your heart rate in zone 2-3 (roughly 60-75% of maximum). Great for building aerobic base fitness and burning calories without exhausting yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I lose belly fat by riding a stationary bike?

Yes, regular cycling can help reduce belly fat as part of an overall fitness routine. While you cannot spot-reduce fat from specific areas, exercise bikes are excellent for burning calories and creating the calorie deficit needed for fat loss. Combining cycling with a balanced diet typically produces the best results. For optimal fat burning, try incorporating high-intensity interval sessions alongside longer steady-state rides.

Is cycling 30 minutes a day enough exercise?

For most people, 30 minutes of cycling daily exceeds the minimum recommended physical activity guidelines. The HSE and WHO recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week. Cycling 30 minutes daily gives you 210 minutes weekly, which provides excellent cardiovascular benefits, supports weight management, and improves overall fitness. Consistency matters more than duration, so 30 minutes daily is more effective than longer irregular sessions.

What is the best at-home exercise bike?

The best exercise bike depends on your specific needs, budget, and available space. For general home use, upright bikes offer the best balance of features and value. Our Bolt Strength range provides excellent quality at mid-range prices. For commercial-grade performance, Wattbike and Concept2 BikeErg are industry leaders. If space is limited, consider a foldable model. We recommend visiting our Dublin showroom to try different bikes before purchasing, or speak with our team for personalised recommendations.

Do exercise bikes actually work?

Absolutely. Exercise bikes are one of the most effective pieces of cardio equipment available. They strengthen your cardiovascular system, build lower body muscle, burn calories efficiently, and improve overall fitness. Unlike outdoor cycling, indoor bikes eliminate weather as an excuse and allow you to train safely at any time. The key to seeing results is consistency. Using your bike regularly, even for moderate sessions, will deliver measurable improvements in fitness and body composition over time.

What muscles does an exercise bike work?

Exercise bikes primarily target your lower body muscles, including your quadriceps (front of thighs), hamstrings (back of thighs), glutes (buttocks), and calves. Your core muscles also engage to maintain posture and stability during cycling. On upright bikes and spin bikes, you’ll work your core more intensively. Air bikes with moving handlebars additionally work your arms, shoulders, chest, and back, providing a full-body workout.

How long should a beginner ride an exercise bike?

Beginners should start with 15-20 minute sessions at a comfortable pace where you can still hold a conversation. Focus on building consistency first rather than intensity or duration. As your fitness improves, gradually increase to 30-45 minutes over several weeks. Listen to your body and don’t push too hard too soon. Three to four sessions per week is a sensible starting point, allowing rest days for recovery.

Is an exercise bike better than walking?

Both activities offer excellent health benefits and which is ‘better’ depends on your goals. Exercise bikes typically burn more calories per minute than walking at a moderate pace. Cycling is also lower impact, making it gentler on joints. However, walking is completely free, requires no equipment, and can be done anywhere. For time-efficient cardio workouts at home, exercise bikes are hard to beat. Many people benefit from combining both activities as part of an active lifestyle.

Should I get a spin bike or exercise bike for home?

For most home users, a standard exercise bike (upright or recumbent) offers better value and versatility. Spin bikes are designed for high-intensity workouts and replica the road cycling experience. If you plan to do spin classes, train for cycling events, or want intense workouts, choose a spin bike. If you want comfortable everyday cardio with built-in programs and easier resistance adjustment, go for an exercise bike. Both deliver excellent workouts when used consistently.

Why Buy Your Exercise Bike from Fitness Equipment Ireland?

We’re not just another online retailer. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Dublin showroom: Visit us at Kylemore Park West to test bikes before you commit. Our team can help you find the perfect match for your needs and budget.
• Expert advice: Our staff are genuine fitness enthusiasts with hands-on experience using the equipment we sell. We give honest recommendations, not just sales pitches.
• Nationwide delivery: We deliver throughout Ireland. Large items include professional delivery and installation options.
• Commercial and home: We supply gyms, hotels, sports clubs, and home users. Whatever your requirements, we have appropriate solutions.
• Finance available: Commercial customers can spread the cost with our third-party financing options. Often same-day approval.
• Servicing and support: We offer ongoing maintenance and servicing for equipment purchased from us.

Ready to find your perfect exercise bike? Browse our collection above, call us on (01) 816 7510, or email [email protected]. We’re always happy to help.