Many upright bikes just won’t be able to give an intense enough work out for me. Spin bikes are usually more stable and designed for harder workouts. With that said, if you aren’t at a high level of fitness, an upright bike could be the choice for you.

You may also be wondering whether a bike is even for you. If so you can take a look at our breakdown of using a treadmill vs a bike and take your decision from there. It depends on a lot more than just your level of fitness, so take a look through our article and see what recommendation works best for you!

View on Amazon

Upright Exercise Bike vs Spin Bike

Spin Bikes

The spin bike, also known as an indoor cycle, has only been available in the mainstream since the 1980s and ’90s. They are designed to mimic a real road bike, so they have the exact same type of build and appearance, including normal handlebars and a bicycle seat. A hunched over riding position is the way all of these bikes are used, though you can also stand upon them.

Resistance is provided from a flywheel which actually attaches to the pedals, so they don’t stop moving just because you do. An average spin bike costs more than any other type of exercise bike and is designed for realism. They were originally created for professional cyclists who can’t train outdoors, so the workout potential with them is huge!

Along with feeling very real, in every area including gear changing/resistance, these bikes don’t tend to have many extras. A console/screen is rare, unless you get something like the [easyazon_link identifier=”B076TZZRC6″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Efitment Indoor Cycle[/easyazon_link], with some bikes utilizing video apps to give a workout instead. With the potential of spin workouts and spin classes, these are becoming a lot more popular commercially.

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B076TZZRC6″ locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/415wZko6f8L.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]View on Amazon

Benefits

Capable of Giving More Intense Workouts

A spin bike uses a heavy flywheel to provide resistance. This creates a similar resistance to a road bike, where the flywheel is attached to the pedals so the pedals keep moving as long as the wheel does. Because of this, you use a lot more energy to control those pedals. With the use of a standing position as well, even more, muscles are activated and more energy is used. This means the spin bike is capable of more extreme workouts than any other indoor exercise bike.

More Applicable for Outdoor Cycling Thanks to Similar Position & Realistic Design

A similar position and flywheel set-up also help with realistic training for outdoor cycling. You use the same muscles in the same positions, and with a good video or app, you can even simulate almost any outdoor ride you can think of. Using the resistance in place of gears to simulate different inclines really helps with this feature. The bike itself also looks exactly like a road bike, with the handlebars in the same place and the resistance knob usually located where the gear selectors would be.

Can be Used in Standing Positions

The standing position is also used on spin bikes, which activates more muscles and allows a much tougher workout. Being able to stand on the bike and exert a lot of force through the pedals means you can push through higher resistance than what’s possible from a sitting position. Having different positions also gives the possibility of using specialized workouts to target weak points or specific muscle groups.

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B00467H5YW” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/414P7b4lFFL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]View on Amazon

Can be More Reliable & Sturdier Than Other Types of Bike

Indoor cycles are built to be sturdy and reliable. Simulating a real bike means there can’t be any wobble or instability when the user is leaning in any direction or pedaling really hard. A good spin bike won’t budge at all in either situation. That also helps it to be more realistic because you can really hammer your workout without any risk of falling over or off. The overall reliability of the machine is improved by these features too. Having to survive hard use means spin bikes are built to last many bumps and bangs, and will also hold up fine if misused a little. The [easyazon_link identifier=”B00467H5YW” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Sunny SF-B1002[/easyazon_link] is an example of a sturdy bike, reliable and capable of intense usage.

Often Support Heavier Users

The sturdiness also lets heavier users take advantage of this equipment. Users who are too heavy for upright bikes are likely to find spin bikes that can and will support them.

Drawbacks

Takes Up More Room

If you’re a home user, a spin bike could be a pain because it doesn’t fold up and isn’t easy to move out of the way. Some have a couple of wheels so they can be tilted and wheeled around quite comfortably, like the [easyazon_link identifier=”B06XZKBFQM” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Body Xtreme Fitness Exercise Bike[/easyazon_link]. However, because of the size, you’re unlikely to fit one into a cupboard or small shed. Instead, a spin bike is designed more to be kept in place as a permanent feature.

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B06XZKBFQM” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51SyQAQXqEL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”427″]View on Amazon

Tough For Beginners

Less experienced users could struggle a little with a spin bike. There are low resistance settings to use but without programs and readouts on most versions, it’s hard to know what kind of work out you’re actually getting as a beginner. This leads to boredom and disinterest for some users. Other users try to join in using vids or spin classes, which are too difficult for their level of fitness. It is possible to start out with one of these bikes, it just takes a bit of time and patience before you can participate on classes.

No Pre-Programmed Workouts

The lack of pre-programmed workouts is a real problem for novice users who don’t know how to create their own workout. If you’re unsure of what workout to do, a spin bike is probably not for you. They’re a lot more useful for cyclists and people who know how to craft their own workouts so they can hit their own goals.

Upright Exercise Bikes

An upright exercise bike is generally the most popular and frequently seen type of exercise bike. They have been around in gyms and homes for decades and are super easy to get started with. They are designed to let you sit completely upright, not hunched over as you would be on a real bike. This is more comfortable for a lot of people because there’s less strain on the spine.

Handlebars are also higher up to accommodate this seating position. They’re conveniently placed right in front of you when in the upright position. Pedals are powered completely by your legs and will stop moving as soon as you do. Take a look at the [easyazon_link identifier=”B002KV383S” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Marcy Upright Exercise Bike[/easyazon_link] to get a good idea of the design.

Training with this type of bike is great for people who prefer an upright position on the seat. It’s also good for general cardio and calorie burn, though it doesn’t do a great job of replicating race cycling because of the body position. The upright position is instead more similar to a casual outdoor ride, and sometimes even varies from that slightly. These are also a popular in-home choice because they can often be folded away easily to save space.

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B002KV383S” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41ZCrVY-hfL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”284″]View on Amazon

Benefits

Cheap to Buy

The upright bike is generally the cheapest type of exercise bike available. There are expensive versions too, but comparing a budget upright bike to other types, the upright is almost always going to be cheaper. If you’re interested in cheaper bikes, check out our articles of the best options under $200 and under $500.

Great For Beginners & Easy to Use

An upright bike is intuitive and most people have seen or even used one at some time in their lives. Hop on and start pedalling, it’s that simple. Having such an easy set up makes it user-friendly, and the lower levels of an upright bike are perfect for beginners because they aren’t too difficult to work with and

Good for Development of the Core and Back Area

Sitting upright means aligning your spine and activating the various stabilizing muscles in your core and back. This can help to give a good overall workout and increase the number of calories burned.

Doesn’t Take Up Much Space

Many upright bikes can be folded up easily. They are also quite lightweight. These two factors make it easy to keep out of sight in small storage space, or even just tuck into the corner of a room. The [easyazon_link identifier=”B007595TKU” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Exerpeutic Folding Magnetic Upright Bike[/easyazon_link] is a great example of this. Even the non-folding versions are often small and light enough to keep hidden!

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B007595TKU” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41copX1fBwL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]View on Amazon

Usually More Comfortable

An upright is designed to give a good workout combined with being user-friendly. That means it doesn’t try to purely simulate road biking. One advantage of this is that uprights can use a bigger, more padded seat. They also have the handlebars and pedals in better locations. You get a lot more comfort from these features!

Often Comes With a Console & Pre-Programmed Workouts 

The majority of uprights come with a console fitted. This console tracks data such as time, distance, and calories burned. A standard upright console is usually more informative than the ones on spin bikes.

Some uprights also offer pre-programmed workouts. Some offer a smaller variety with general goals, whilst others have a huge selection available. This can be very appealing for home users who want to keep it interesting and vary their sessions. For example, the [easyazon_link identifier=”B00KVZM2SC” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Nautilus Upright Bike[/easyazon_link] comes with 22 programs, and 20 levels of resistance!

Drawbacks

Can Cause Back/Neck Aches

Some people don’t like the upright position, especially those with lower back problems. Sitting upright for long time periods can also cause extra aches in the back, neck, or forearm areas. The best way to get around this is actually to try the bike before you buy, so you’re sure it aligns well for your build.

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B00KVZM2SC” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41Uky4yeD9L.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]View on Amazon

Not Great For Intense Workouts

Uprights tend to be lighter and not anchored as well as a recumbent or spin bike. The way force is exerted on an upright also leads it to be unstable. It’s quite a tall machine compared to other bikes yet can easily sway side to side under heavy force or fast pedaling.

There’s no option for standing or hunched pedaling either because of how it’s designed. This limits how much force you can comfortably exert over an extended time anyway. The bike is unstable and not suited for heavy workouts for the reasons given. For advanced users, a spin bike is definitely the better choice.

Bottom Line – Upright Exercise Bike vs Spin Bike

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”500″ identifier=”B007595TKU” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41copX1fBwL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]View on Amazon

Basically it all comes down to your individual needs. Are you looking for something small and easy to move, most likely for home use? Or do you prefer guided workouts and simplicity? Perhaps you’re just looking for a decent workout without paying too much, or don’t need cycling realism or heavy workouts? If you’re answering mostly yes to these, you would be best suited with an upright bike, like the [easyazon_link identifier=”B007595TKU” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Exerpeutic Magnetic Upright Bike[/easyazon_link].

[easyazon_image align=”none” height=”322″ identifier=”B00LSX8AA0″ locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41kaZ3ulbHL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]

Perhaps that isn’t the case though. Maybe you want tough, advanced, or realistic workouts. Perhaps your aim is to get into competitive sports cycling, or you’re a high-level athlete who needs heavy and intense usability? In that case, the spin bike is definitely the best way to go, and my recommendation would be the [easyazon_link identifier=”B00LSX8AA0″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Keiser M3i cycle[/easyazon_link].

Newer Star Trac models are great for advanced athletes and people who are really devoted to achieving or maintaining a high degree of health. They may be more than a casual cyclist needs. That doesn’t mean that you should turn away from the Star Trac name. Older models are still out there and are still worth looking into for people with more modest means and requirements.

View on Amazon

Star Trac Spinner Review – A Note on all of the Models

All of Star Trac’s spinning bikes come in parts to be assembled. Many reviewers have said that the spinners are fairly easy to assemble. If you have trouble there are youtube tutorials to guide you through the process.

All of the bikes have water bottle holders. In the case of newer models, the water bottle holder is optional. Instead of a water bottle holder, you can get a computer screen. This has some clear advantages but it also means giving up your water bottle holder.

None of the Star Trac bikes store very well. They all have wheels mounted to the frame so if you can manage to tip it forward you can shove it around a little bit. For the most part, where you put your bike together is probably where it’s going to stay. That’s especially true considering all of the machines weigh over 100 pounds.

The Studio Series

[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”300″ identifier=”B01M0EG444″ locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/21yH2vUXEWL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”300″]View on Amazon

Sturdy Construction

Right now the spinning cycles available through Star Trac are all part of the Studio Series. There’s the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01M0EG444″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Studio 3[/easyazon_link], the Studio 5, the Studio 7, and the Studio 7 “Candy Apple Red.” All of these models are made out of stainless steel with corrosion-resistant finishes. This material leads to a long life but also contribute to the weight. Every bike in the Studio Series weighs over 100 pounds. That weight isn’t for nothing, however. Each bike can support a user weighing three-hundred pounds or more, depending on the model. That would be a lot to take on for a cheaper machine.

Additional Features

Members of the Studio series have a number of additional features. These features range from the basic to the advanced. All models have one or two water bottle holders. This feature is important for long or intense workouts but is often neglected in cheaper models.

Each model comes with the option of a small computer and a display screen. This system is used for assessing and relaying information on your workout. This information is helpful for continually improving your routine. The computer can’t be used to set your workout or save custom workouts like the computers in some other stationary bikes. It can calculate valuable metrics including heartbeat and calories burned, workout time, distance traveled, and revolutions per minute achieved.

Resistance

Resistance can be adjusted easily and smoothly as you go. For me, having a computer on the bike that doesn’t allow for a dynamic exercise seems like a waste. When I use spinning machines I like to use the settings that change the resistance up and down so it feels like you’re going through the mountains. I know that you can do this manually with the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01M0EG444″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Studio Series[/easyazon_link], but somehow it’s not the same.

The Spinner Pro

[easyazon_image align=”left” height=”500″ identifier=”B06XWJL734″ locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41losu9blWL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”500″]View on Amazon

The [easyazon_link identifier=”B06XWJL734″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Star Trac Spinner Pro[/easyazon_link] is no longer being pushed by the company. You can still get them new or used for a fraction of the price of the newer Studio series. The weight is similar to the bikes in the Studio series, as is the weight capacity. Some of the construction specs are a little behind, so the ride may not be as smooth. This bike is still a bargain for people who aren’t willing to pay almost twice as much for one of the Studio series.

Pro

Users of this product online have complained that Star Trac support isn’t always very helpful with issues like damages during shipment. According to reviewers, because Star Trac sells through distributors they don’t like to deal with shipping damage. On the upside, users were happy with the easy assembly and adjustments to the bike.

The biggest potential downside to the Spinner Pro might be that it isn’t compatible with the Star Trac computer like the Studio Series bikes are. The computer is nice but since it can’t be used to program your exercise, most fitness apps can do everything the computer can. A heart rate monitor, a basic fitness app, and a used Spinner Pro still won’t set you back as much as a new bike from the Studio Series.

The NXT

[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”300″ identifier=”B01HVZZQ14″ locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/21iVLbdAptL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”300″]View on Amazon

The [easyazon_link identifier=”B01HVZZQ14″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Star Trac NXT[/easyazon_link] has been around for a few years now. Buying it online is cheaper, but a little more dangerous than it used to be. This is partly because the frame on the NXT is made from aluminum rather than steel like newer models. That means the bikes are more likely to have a few dents and dings. Many reviewers say that their bike came with a couple of issues.

Reviewers of this bike online have complained of some issues with the delivery. And keep in mind that Star Trac isn’t known for its service. Expert reviewers have also stressed that this is still a quality machine that can be bought at a steal of a price these days. More reviewers also commented on this particular model that it is very easy to assemble. The take away for this machine is that it’s a good price for a good product, but you need to be careful with ordering online.

The Velo

The Star Trac Spinner Velo Bike might have the best customer reviews of the older Star Trac models. This might be why it’s so hard to find. If you want a Velo after reading this article, you might have to watch sights like Amazon and eBay and wait for one to turn up.

Construction Considerations

There are no complaints about damage. This is strange considering the design is less industrious than that of later models. The weighted flywheel is about ten pounds heavier in the Velo than in later models. This has its advantages but makes the Velo slightly more difficult to put together and use.

Some users also had problems with the pedals coming loose. This can lead to stripping the threads on the crank arms, which then need to be replaced. The good news is that crank arm replacements for the Velo are pretty easy to find and are reasonably cheap. Problems with the crank arm can be prevented by checking every now and again to make sure that the pedals are on tight. That can be a bit of a nuisance but isn’t too much to ask considering the bike is otherwise pretty sound.

Speaking of sound, some users have also mentioned that the Velo makes more noise than other spinners. This too is a pretty minor issue. More reviewers point out with this model than any other that having a Star Trac cycle is having a gym-quality machine in your home. This is an interesting assessment because the bike isn’t compatible with the Star Trac computer system. I’m used to some form of a computer system on gym machines. Maybe I just have a good gym.

Where does the Water Bottle go?

In this model, the water bottle holder is on the mainframe between the legs rather than near the handles where it is on later models. Reviewers of the bike don’t seem to mind, but it could be an annoying trade-off. After all, there is no computer between the bars like on the Studio series. There’s also no form of a tablet stand. None of the other models have one, but without the water bottle there, it just seems like wasted space.

The Blade

[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”500″ identifier=”B00AMXCACG” locale=”US” src=”https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41b8ZYMI1vL.jpg” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″ width=”333″]View on Amazon

The [easyazon_link identifier=”B00AMXCACG” locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Star Trac Blade[/easyazon_link] is from back in Star Trac’s aluminum body phase. There are still complaints about body damage, which is disappointing considering this is one of the more expensive models out there. It certainly appears to have a more industrious design than older and cheaper models like the Velo.

The Blade starts to have more modern touches. These include the micro-adjustments and dual water bottle holders that are integral to the Studio series. The blade isn’t advertised as being compatible with the Star Trac computer, but at least one user says that they made it work somehow. The lack of the optional computer mount was probably the least of their troubles, but it would seem that you could rig something up wanted.

Star Trac Spinner FAQ

What’s the difference between the Studio Series and the Blade?

The main difference between these two models is the material used for the construction of the frame. While the Studio Series are made of stainless steel, the Blade enjoys and aluminum body.

Another significant difference is the availability of a computer and a display screen. The Studio Series provides a better option for the metrics measurement with the compact display; however, although the Blade is equipped with the Blade ION computer, updating the software can be a hassle.

What’s the best Star Trac Spinner for small spaces?

All the bikes from Star Trac are well known for the durability and sturdiness, with a stunning capacity to stand heavy riders. Unfortunately, that comes along with larger sizes that won’t fit well in small spaces. However, in terms of weight, and considering the aluminum body, the Blade is the lighter among the Star Trac Spinning bikes; that makes it easy to move from place to place in reduced spaces.

Can you change the seat in the Star Trac Spinner bikes?

Short answer: Yes; however, you need to consider the bolts and fixing system before you buy a new saddle for your bike.

Keep in mind that the seats of the Star Trac Spinner bikes are known in the market for being some of the most comfortable out there. Nevertheless, if you have special ergonomic needs, there are specialized saddles that can suit your Star Trac.

Is it safe to use a spinning bike if I exceed the weight limit?

Unless you are extremely overweight, the bikes won’t collapse; however, the life span of the bike might be compromised. We recommend to start with recumbent bikes and built up your fitness level before jumping over spinning bikes.

For large riders, the [easyazon_link identifier=”B01M0EG444″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Studio Series[/easyazon_link] from Star Trac are one of the best options available in the market.

Are the Spinning bikes recommended for seniors?

That’s a catch 22 question; in today’s society, seniors are more conscious about their health and fitness level. We have seen extremely fit seniors (females and males) that could beat riders of half their age during spinning sessions.

On the other hand, for a senior with health limitations or basic fitness level, we would recommend the use of recumbent bikes, which are ideal to prevent back or knees injuries while rising up the heart rate.

Final Thoughts – Star Trac Spinner Review

Even the older Star Trac models are coming down in price. These may still be a bit expensive for the hobby spinner, however, have a look to our article for the Best Exercise Bikes Under 200. The newest models have a lot of bells and whistles but they certainly come at additional cost. It must be up to the individual to decide if these upgrades are worth it.

Personally, I figure that if you have some apps and hardware from your other exercises and a shelf nearby that you can put your water bottle on you could save some money by looking for an older model online. Whether you need the extras or not, [easyazon_link identifier=”B06XWJL734″ locale=”US” tag=”upbeat-jan-20″]Star Trac spinners[/easyazon_link] are high-quality equipment.

Spinning bikes are having different options in the market nowadays, depending on the specific needs you may find alternatives for every case. Perhaps you may want to look at the best exercise bikes for a short person or you may want to know the face to face comparison between an upright bike vs spin bike.