Remember we do plenty of reviews here at Gym Blazer, and if you’re interested in the best exercise bikes for short people, including every type of bike, then check out our post here. Alternatively, if you want an upright bike and are of an average or tall build, you might want to look at our guide to the best upright bikes. Now, let’s take a look at the bikes!

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Best Overall – Schwinn 130 Upright Exercise Bike

The [easyazon_link identifier=”B01KAGX7DU” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Schwinn 130[/easyazon_link] is a mid-range option with lots of features and plenty of reliability. Schwinn has a length history when it comes to bikes. Originally founded in 1895, Schwinn bicycles took less than a year to make an impact, clocking up more race wins in their first year than any of the other 300+ cycle companies in the United States. From there they tweaked their technology continuously and stayed a top name in the bike industry.

In the 1960’s they decided to take this knowledge and apply it to indoor bikes, allowing athletes to train effectively and comfortably. These days they also produce other cardio equipment, although their bikes are still one of Schwinn’s most popular products.

Benefits

Highly Adjustable

The [easyazon_link identifier=”B01KAGX7DU” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Schwinn 130 Upright[/easyazon_link] has a big range of movement for the seat to move through, so it can be used by different heights. It’s pretty easy to do this too, making it ideal if more than one person is going to use it. The handlebars are also adjustable which is important for shorter people because non-adjustable handlebars can leave you in an uncomfortable position. This bike can accommodate users from 5’ tall up to 6’1”, so it covers most common heights and shorter users – but isn’t good for tall users. With that said, it’s tough to find a bike that can adjust enough for a short person AND a tall person, with this one being able to fit taller users than most alternatives.

The adjustments in two places also mean this is a comfortable bike for most users instead of just being one for shorter people. The movement of the handlebars can accommodate build differences and give you a more comfortable position.

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B01KAGX7DU” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41×8-DdCGJL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]
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Lots of Workout Variations

The [easyazon_link identifier=”B01KAGX7DU” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Schwinn 130[/easyazon_link] comes with 20 resistance levels which is a lot of variation. At the top end, even veteran cyclists are going to get a good workout, while the bottom end is easy enough for a complete beginner to get started without too much trouble. Having 20 levels means you can make jumps between levels smaller and easier to deal with, which is great for keeping your confidence and motivation high.

There are 22 different workout programs available as well, so it’s not only resistance you can change up. The different workouts can be used to focus on improving different areas or to do different types of workouts, such as intervals or hill work. Some of the workouts also track your heart rate and work based on that, so they’re tailored to your level of fitness. There’s enough here for you to change it up while sticking to the same goal as well, so using the bike stays interesting for you.

Useful Extras

Schwinn has fitted a few little extras to this bike, such as a USB port for charging/media use and a bottle holder to keep a drink handy. There’s a shelf for you to place a tablet on and forearm rests for the handles (which include heart rate monitors). There’s even a built-in multi-speed fan to keep you cool and two screens of data from the built-in console, giving you plenty of stats to view when cycling. To top it off, this bike comes with its own speakers built-in as well – way more features than most other bikes at the same price!

Reliable Warranty

Warranty for the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01KAGX7DU” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Schwinn 130 Upright Exercise Bike[/easyazon_link] is solid, covering the frame (10 years), parts (2 years), electronics (1 year) and even the labor for a short time (90 days). It’s solid in most areas anyway, the warranty gives extra piece of mind though.

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B01KAGX7DU” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41IgZXNOyTL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]
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Quiet & Comfortable

We already covered the position being movable and comfortable for most users in the adjustability section. The handlebars themselves are also comfortable though, with a nice angle to keep wrists comfortable and a slender surface to grip. The seat is also a little bigger than standard bike saddles and is covered with soft foam. It’s not a luxurious seat but it’s better than a hard plastic saddle.

The bike stays quiet when in use as well. The pedals go through their motion smoothly and without causing any noise or vibration. They’re counterbalanced too so they start to slow naturally if you stop pedaling, and switching resistance is quiet as well because this bike uses a magnetic resistance system.

Drawbacks

Unreliable Pedals

Now you’ll remember I said this bike is reliable, and it is. There is a weak point though, and that’s the pedals. These can break quite easily but Schwinn is pretty good at sending out replacements, especially since they know this is an issue on the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01KAGX7DU” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]130[/easyazon_link]. Get in touch with them if you have any problems, and they should help you out pretty fast.

Awkward Assembly

Speaking of fast, one part which isn’t fast is assembling this bike. It can take over an hour to put together and is best done in pairs, though it would be possible to do solo if you have a little DIY experience.

Best on a Budget – ProGear 225 Foldable Magnetic Exercise Bike

ProGear aren’t as well-known as Schwinn but they’re gaining recognition already for creating cheap, reliable home gym equipment. Their models aren’t as fancy or reliable as commercial-grade equipment but they provide a good starting point for home exercisers. Their [easyazon_link identifier=”B01N7PO9GV” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]225 Foldable Upright[/easyazon_link] bike is a great choice for your first upright bike, especially for shorter users.

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B01N7PO9GV” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41W%2Bpn6LL4L.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]
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Benefits

Cheap

The biggest pro for this bike is how little the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01N7PO9GV” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]ProGear 225[/easyazon_link] costs. It’s a real budget option making it an ideal first bike for newcomers. The low cost also makes it easily replaceable if you decide to upgrade or if something does happen to go wrong.

Space Saving & Easy to Move

Once folded the bike only measures 19”x17.5”x53” and weighs around 35 lbs. This is very small and light yet it still has wheels attached to make movement even easier. You could just fold this up and put it in a cupboard when not needed. Even when unfolded and ready for use, it doesn’t take up a massive amount of room so you don’t NEED to put it away if space is tight.

Quiet & Comfortable

Pedals move smoothly thanks to their 3 piece crank system and despite being a little louder than a magnetic system, it’s still pretty quiet. The pedals themselves are big and easy to push against, made from a solid material too. The seat on the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01N7PO9GV” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]225[/easyazon_link] is also oversized and quite comfortable.

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B01N7PO9GV” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41YVpYZcZpL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]
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Drawbacks

Lack of Info

[easyazon_link identifier=”B01N7PO9GV” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]ProGear’s 225 Upright Bike[/easyazon_link] only gives feedback on time, speed, distance, calories and pulse. The pulse monitor is the only extra too, as there isn’t a tablet holder/shelf or bottle holder. A budget bike is better off trimming these extras and focusing on quality anyway though. The screen also only displays one stat at a time.

Limited Workout Options

With only 8 levels covering the entire resistance range, you may need to make larger jumps than you’d like to. If you want a good workout it’s quite likely you’re going to be stuck at the same range of 2-4 levels for a while which can feel demotivating. There also aren’t any programmed workouts so you have to figure out your own session, which again limits your options and variety (for most people).

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B01N7PO9GV” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/415u0gMc2HL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]
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Not for Large Users

The max weight for this bike is 220 lbs, not especially heavy. The height range recommended is 5’ – 6’, pretty standard and favoring shorter users instead of taller ones.

Best for Shortest Users – FitLeader FX2 Upright Indoor Folding Exercise Bike

Fitleader is a newer brand, having been around for only a few years. Most new brands struggle to make an impact. The mistake of offering cheap, low-quality products is often their downfall. The [easyazon_link identifier=”B013OWDR3C” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitleader FX2 Upright Bike[/easyazon_link] is different though, it has a respectable build quality and sticks to the basics, making it reliable if a little boring. The difference between this bike and others is that it is targeted at shorter users – going as low as 4’6”!

Benefits

Great for Short Users

Having a small size and an adjustable seat makes this perfect for small users. It supports users up to 250lbs in weight though the height restrictions say this bike works for heights of 4’6” – 5’1”. This is designed for teenagers and short users. If you’re over 5’ it can be a little awkward to use, and over 5’3” it becomes practically unusable.

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B013OWDR3C” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41i59opjELL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]
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Cheap

The price for the [easyazon_link identifier=”B013OWDR3C” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]FX2[/easyazon_link] is also low, which would be expected from a new company aiming at the lower end of the market.

Space Saving

[easyazon_link identifier=”B013OWDR3C” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]FitLeaders FX2[/easyazon_link] measures 35”x22”x52” and can be folded up so it takes even less space. Weighing around 50 lbs and equipped with wheels, it’s easy to move.

Drawbacks

Basic Display

The display is fairly basic, limited to calories, time, distance, and pulse. There are no other options and the display console is very basic.

Poor Handlebars

Some people have pointed out the [easyazon_link identifier=”B013OWDR3C” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]FitLeader FX2 Upright Folding Bike[/easyazon_link] has very simple handlebars. They’re straight, hard, and not very big. Some might find them a little uncomfortable. Wearing a pair of light, comfortable gloves can be helpful. The small size and lack of adjustability is a bigger problem though.

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B013OWDR3C” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41wccPTCJpL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]
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Final Word – Best Upright Exercise Bike for Short Person

As you can see, your choice will depend on your needs. Users under 5’ tall are best off with the [easyazon_link identifier=”B013OWDR3C” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Fitleader FX2[/easyazon_link] but anybody taller should go for the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01KAGX7DU” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Schwinn 130[/easyazon_link] – as long as you can afford it!

Exercise bikes offer a huge array of benefits, from improving your cardio, building strength in your lower body, and even helping with weight loss. It’s also good on your joints and very convenient. You simply need to choose whether you prefer the recumbent style or the upright exercise bike.

But the real reason that the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B111OS is the best exercise bike under 500 is the fact that it is fully adjustable and offers many of the features that you normally only get with the more expensive models.

I’ve tried every exercise bike I could get my hands on for under 500 and am convinced the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B111OS is the best of them all.

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Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B111OS – Best For Exercising

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B00467H5YW” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41Sky%2B6g7HL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]View on Amazon

Sunny Health & Fitness have been in business for over 15 years and pride themselves on offering the best bikes and elliptical trainers for reasonable prices. The [easyazon_link identifier=”B002CVU2HG” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B111OS[/easyazon_link], also known as the Indoor cycling bike; doesn’t disappoint.

It’s a great option for anyone who loves cycling as it offers an experience very close to riding on the road.

• 44lb inertia driven flywheel
• Easy Dial Tension Adjustment
• Fully Adjustable
• Chain Driven
• Supports 265 pounds
• Weighs 106 pounds
• 47” x 21” x 48”

Advantages

• Fully Adjustable

When you’re used to be in the saddle for an extended period of time you need to be comfortable. This is easy to achieve on the [easyazon_link identifier=”B002CVU2HG” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]SF-B111OS[/easyazon_link] as it is fully adjustable.

The seat can be moved both up and down as well as back and forth; ensuring you can get the right position for your ride. The seat is also cushioned for comfort. More impressive is the fact that the handlebars move up and down and forward and back; there is absolutely no reason not to get comfortable on this bike.

• Resistance Settings

The resistance on the [easyazon_link identifier=”B00467H5YW” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]SF-B111OS[/easyazon_link] is easily adjusted via a knob just below the handlebars. All you need to do is twist it to either increase or decrease the intensity of your workout.

But that’s not all! There is also a fabric brake pad that is operated by a separate lever near the handlebars. This allows you to fine-tune the resistance on your bike; creating realistic ups and downs which match those you would find if cycling on the road.

• Bike Like Experience

The [easyazon_link identifier=”B002CVU2HG” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]SF-B111OS[/easyazon_link] uses a chain to drive the 44 pound flywheel. It is also exceptionally stable, allowing you to stand up while riding. Both of these factors help the bike to feel more like a road bike than an exercise bike. This can make your workout more challenging, exciting, and rewarding.

• Portability

A great feature of this bike which is often overlooked by manufacturers is the addition of wheels on the front bar. All you need to do is release the brake, grasp the handlebars and pull downwards. The bike will pivot onto the transportation wheels allowing you to slide it away virtually effortlessly.

That’s a great way of keeping the space free.

Disadvantages

Unfortunately, even the best exercise bike under 500 is not perfect; there are a couple of small issues:

• Volume

The bike is actually pretty quiet when riding; unless you want to crank the resistance up. This is particularly an issue if you’re using the felt brake as it creates a drumming sound.

If you’re hoping to ride while watching television or with others in the room; this could be an issue. However, if you’re planning on using it in a separate room with headphones and a music player or tablet then you probably won’t even notice the noise.

• Customer Service

Several customers have commented on the slow response by the customer service team at Sunny Health & Fitness. This is disappointing considering the company is dedicated to giving the best possible experience.

Exerpeutic 1000 High Capacity Recumbent – Best For Those With A Bad Back

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B01MRAWBL1″ locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41dimYuI02L.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”455″]

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Recumbent exercise bikes are a great way to keep exercising while recovering from a back injury or even living with back pains. They are low impact and will still provide the same cardio benefits as an upright bike. Of course, you won’t have quite the same feeling of being on the road.

Exerpeutic is actually a product of Paradigm Health & Wellness. They are considered one of the leading suppliers of fitness equipment in California. Their aim is to provide unique products through leading brands; the testimonies from their happy customers speak for themselves.

• 34” x 22” x 54”
• Weight 63 pounds
• Supports 300 pounds
• V-Belt Drive
• 8 Resistance Levels
• Transport Wheels
• Large Pedals

Advantages

• Features

The [easyazon_link identifier=”B00I1S0GEI” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Exerpeutic 1000 High Capacity recumbent[/easyazon_link] has a V-belt drive with balanced flywheel. This ensures the bike is smooth to ride and virtually silent. That’s impressive for a bike under 500.

In addition, there is a built-in screen that shows your current speed, distance completed, calories burned, time working out, and most impressive of all; your heart rate. The heart rate monitor is built into the grips; allowing you to check and monitor it whenever you want.

• Step-Through Design

Recumbent bikes are generally considered the best option if you have a bad back or joint pain. For this reason, the [easyazon_link identifier=”B00I1S0GEI” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Exerpeutic 1000 High Capacity recumbent[/easyazon_link] has a step-through design; making it easy for anyone to get on and off.

You’ll also appreciate the extended leg stabilizers and large pedal design; helping you to pedal without your feet slipping.

This helps to lower the center of gravity and keep the bike stable when you’re pedaling.

• Comfort

The seat on this bike is well padded to ensure you remain comfortable while pedaling. It can be adjusted back and forth.

It is worth noting that the backrest doesn’t move; this shouldn’t be an issue but could affect your comfort levels.

Disadvantages

• Resistance Levels

Overall the [easyazon_link identifier=”B00I1S0GEI” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Exerpeutic 1000[/easyazon_link] is a well thought out bike. This is why it is disappointing to note that there are only 8 resistance levels. This is acceptable for a beginner but if you have any experience on a bike you’ll probably find that there are not enough settings to give you the workout you really want.

It’s also disappointing to note that despite having an electronic display the resistance needs to be adjusted manually via the knob. It’s not easy to do while cycling.

BladeZ Fitness Fusion GS II – Best For Spinning

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B015P8FANI” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51CgYb2NlzL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”471″]

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The [easyazon_link identifier=”B015P8FANI” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]BladeZ Fitness Fusion GS II[/easyazon_link] is a beautiful looking bike with a lot of great features. Unfortunately it doesn’t offer the same feel of being on the road as the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B1110S.

BladeZ Fitness is actually a European company that has been producing exercise and fitness equipment for over 100 years! Their aim is to produce high-end equipment for the home and light commercial settings but at affordable prices; they’ve certainly hit the right note with this entry to the best exercise bike under 500.

• Fully Adjustable
• LCD Display
• Sport Seat
• Steel Frame
• Supports 275 pounds
• 5” x 20” x 43”
• Weighs 85 pounds

Advantages

• Quality Build

The [easyazon_link identifier=”B015P8FANI” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]BladeZ Fitness Fusion[/easyazon_link] is made from heavy-duty steel. This does make it heavier to move around but it ensures it remains stable even in the most energetic of spinning classes. The current version of this bike features an improved handlebar post and handlebars; this ensures they are strong enough to take a heavy-duty workout.

There is a 40-pound flywheel to give you enough resistance while keeping the bike feeling smooth and stable.  As a bonus, the bike comes with a comprehensive warranty.

• Adjustability

The first thing you’ll notice is that the seat adjusts in 4 different directions and the handlebars also move. This will virtually guarantee your ability to get comfortable while riding it.

But that’s not all. The [easyazon_link identifier=”B015P8FANI” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]BladeZ Fitness Fusion[/easyazon_link] also has a variety of different hand position options; thanks to the extended length and shape of the handlebars. This is so that you can change your grip as necessary to match your spinning workout.

You’ll probably also notice the seat is thin and long; similar to a road bike. It is actually surprisingly comfortable.

• Resistance

You do get a manual adjusting knob for the resistance levels on this bike. However, this is an infinite resistance style adjuster. You can keep turning it to make it harder and harder, (or easier).  It’s easy to do this while riding and you can push the knob in to release all tension; effectively creating an emergency stop feature.

• Features

The LCD console sits above the handlebars, ensuring you can see it at all times without it getting in the way. You have the usual display options, distance, calories burned, speed, time, and a scan feature. It doesn’t monitor your heart rate.

Disadvantages

• No Workout Programs

This is a well put together bike with an electronic console and yet there are no workout programs to help you make the most of each session. This may not be a deal-breaker but it is certainly disappointing.

• Size Limits

Several people have noted that if you are less than 5’2” you’re likely to struggle to reach the pedals, handlebars, and controls; despite the array of the handlebar and seat adjustments possible.

• Comfort

Finally, while most people are happy with the seat anyone who is not accustomed to hard riding is likely to find it uncomfortable; which could prevent you from completing the whole workout.

Start Your New Routine Today With The Best Exercise Bike Under 500

Choosing the best exercise bike under 500 is easy thanks to the above guide. There are hundreds of options on the market but you’ll struggle to beat the [easyazon_link identifier=”B002CVU2HG” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B1110S[/easyazon_link] for sheer authentic and enjoyment.

This bike offers everything you could need from an exercise bike to keep you motivated and improving your fitness right through the winter months. The quality of its build and the small details like full adjustability make it the best exercise bike under 500 currently available.

You really will feel like your outside when you’re actually safe and warm in your own home. I’ve added this bike to my collection and couldn’t be happier with the choice.