Don’t let its tiny size fool you; mini exercise bikes are an economical alternative to full-size gym equipment or a bicycle and can get the heart pumping even though you’re sitting down while using them.
With various settings for either rehabilitation or a full-on workout that can challenge legs, glutes, core muscles, and even arms, buying the best mini exercise bike is a great way to stay fit from the comfort of your own home or even the office.
The best mini exercise bikes to buy at a glance
• Best overall: AGM Mini Exercise Bike Pedal Exerciser - View at Amazon UK
• Best for weight loss: Opti Mini Exercise Bike 2020 - View at Argos
• Best for resistance: Ultrasport Mini Bike Exercise Bike - View at Amazon UK
Mini exercise bikes benefits
Depending on the resistance level you set, a mini exercise bike can provide just as good a cardio workout as going for a run or a bike ride but is much kinder to the joints. Some mini bikes even allow the user to be standing up to provide a more intense workout. On a lower resistance setting, even the elderly or those who have recently had an operation can use one of these little things daily to strengthen essential muscles and keep the bones safe.
Pedalling with the arms is another way to use a mini exercise bike as this can engage the arm, shoulder, and core muscles, so you really do get a full-body workout. In addition, its small dimensions ensure that it won’t take up much space and can easily be tucked away and stored out of sight. Most of these little machines are also super quiet so you can even work out at the office under your desk without disturbing your co-workers.
The best mini exercise bikes in 2024
Please note: All prices are correct at the time of writing. Prices, stock and deals are subject to change without notice.
Best overall
As the number one best-selling mini exercise bike Amazon has in its "pedal exercisers" department, this AGM machine has a lot to offer, despite its low price tag. Perfect for physical therapy, and even those with limited mobility, this mini exercise bike pedal exerciser's settings are user-friendly and adjustable, and its digital LCD display shows calories burned, distance cycled, duration, and laps.
The pedals may be on the narrow side for users with wider feet. On the plus side though, there is generous adjustability on the pedal straps.
Pros
- Great value for money
- Solid LCD display showing a range of fitness metrics
- Strap and resistance adjustability for a custom experience
Cons
- Pedals could be narrow for some users
Dimensions | 40.6 x 25 x 32 cm |
Display | LCD |
Weight | 3.5kg |
Power | Battery |
Resistance | Adjustable |
Best for weight loss
The Opti Mini exercise bike is Argos's bestselling mini bike. It has variable resistance controls, sturdy feet to keep it in place, and an LCD display that gives you all the essential stats. At around 3.5kg, it's lightweight enough to effortlessly move around and it comes with a one-year guarantee.
Calories, distance, and time metrics are accurate and responsive for the most part.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to move around frome one room to another
- Variable tension control makes for a more challenging ride
- One-year guarantee included
Cons
- Maximum user weight of 100kg might not be ideal for people seeking a weight loss tool
Dimensions | 38.5 x 39 x 48 cm |
Display | LCD |
Weight | 3.55kg |
Power | Battery |
Resistance | Variable |
Best for health
After an injury or operation, patients are always advised to get some light exercise, but in the cold and wet British winter, this can be quite the feat. Other exercise machines like treadmills or full-sized bikes can be too much for someone recovering or dealing with pain, so a mini exercise machine, like this NRS Healthcare motorised pedal exerciser, is a great alternative. Providing a low-impact workout with adjustable resistance, it's the perfect way to start getting those muscles working and back in shape.
Pros
- Great option for injury rehabilitation and recovery
- Extremely affordable option
- Foldable for additional portability
Cons
- Not ideal for those after more elevated exercise
Dimensions | 19 x 19 x 34 cm |
Display | Digital |
Weight | 2kg |
Power | Battery |
Resistance | Adjustable |
Best dual purpose
Although notorious for its superior cardio capabilities and as being one of the best ways to get and stay fit, not everyone is a fan of cycling or pedal exercise, but a smooth pedalling system, like the one on this portable home pedal exerciser by himaly on Amazon, can get even the most hesitant users to enjoy the activity.
Depsite its appearance, this mini exercise bike from himaly boasts surprising stability. The ride is secure thanks to its strong frame and balanced footing. Putting it together appears a simple process too, all bolts and pieces are provided as well as a tightening tool. It just might not be as portable and lightweight as some other options out there, with this one coming in at a heavier 4kg.
Pros
- Pedals can be used for legs or arms
- Features a durable steel flywheel ideal for consistent use
- 180kg maximum user weight opens up for everyone
Cons
- Not as portable or lightweight as other options
Dimensions | 41 x 32 x 19 cm |
Display | LCD |
Weight | 4kg |
Power | Battery |
Resistance | Adjustable |
Best for seniors
As a motorised piece of exercise equipment, this machine is ideal for elderly folks or those with limited mobility as it can assist in getting the limbs moving while slowly increasing strength. It's easy enough to use when watching TV or reading a book, and it has automated timed programmes too. It even comes with a remote control, which makes navigating programmes and stopping/starting far easier.
Unlike most of the other entries in our list, this one is powered through mains as opposed to being battery powered. So, this does raise questions of portability, and users will have to be careful of the attached cable. This is of course a minor drawback of the power assistance feature.
Pros
- Perfect for seniors or anyone with weak joints
- Handy remote control for making adjustments
- Assemble in just five minutes
Cons
- Powered through mains, lacks some portability
Dimensions | 7.6 x 10.9 x 5.3 cm |
Display | LCD |
Weight | 5.2kg |
Power | Mains |
Resistance | Adjustable |
Most quiet
Like most mini exercise bikes, this one too has been specifically designed to effortlessly fit under a desk so you can kill two essential birds with one stone; work and exercise. The desk cycle has a high-quality magnetic resistance and more than twice the power of other commercial mini pedal exercisers, hence its steeper price tag. Its smooth cycle doesn't strain the joints, and it's so low noise, so can easily go unnoticed while using it in even the busiest office.
The DeskCycle2 comes with a generous amount of customisation too. You can adjust pedal height to help with desk clearance, as well as the toe straps to provide a more secure fit. The LCD display is even detachable. It isn't the cheapest option by a considerable amount, but you really are getting your money's worth in that whisper quiet magnetic resistance.
Pros
- Extremely silent courtesy of magnetic resistance
- Highly adjustable
- Eight points of resistance
Cons
- Not cost effective if a silent mini exercise bike isn't a priority
Dimensions | 62 x 51 x 31 cm |
Display | LCD |
Weight | 10kg |
Power | Battery |
Resistance | Adjustable |
Best folding
If you've read all about the benefits of mini exercise bikes and like the fact that they take up minimal space but still feel that you'd prefer something you can really grab onto, this mini folding bike might be the solution you've been looking for. Hop on it as you would a regular exercise bike but, when you're done with it, it folds up to around the size of an ironing board for easy storage in a cupboard, behind the sofa, or under the bed.
It's sturdy, easy to assemble, and seems to be genuinely long lasting. Magnetic resistance is great to see, which offers smooth but challenging rides. The wide seat back might not be for everyone, but if you're able to get used to that, you'll have a ball.
Pros
- Sturdy and durable build, long lasting
- Easy to assemble and even easier to fold and put away
- Highly accurate measurements on a sharp LCD display
Cons
- Back of seat is quite wide, won't be for everyone
Dimensions | 113 x 73.99 x 41 cm |
Display | LCD |
Weight | 14kg |
Power | Battery |
Resistance | Adjustable |
Why choose a mini exercise bike?
If you're short on space and want to burn a few extra calories while sat down, a mini exercise bike might be well up your street. They're typically designed to slot underneath any and all types of desk, but they can be used in other instances such as sitting on the sofa or at a table.
A mini exercise bike can also be a tempting purchase since most are fairly budget-friendly. There are exceptions that come fitted with a little extra tech where you might see a steeper price tag attached. All in all though, you can bag yourself a quality example from anywhere between £30 and £100.
Features to look for in a mini exercise bike
At first glance, you might not spot the differences amongst mini exercise bikes. While they do tend to follow the same design principles, there are still elements that'll make some models stand apart from others, and this could impact your experience.
Portability
Portability is likely a priority if you're in the market for a mini exercise bike. Depsite this fact, many models still vary in size from one another. Some are bulkier and heavier than others, while some are far lighter and more streamlined.
If you're not too worried about a mini exercise bike that fits under a desk but you still want some portability, keep a look out for folding exercise bikes. The best ones fold up and down with ease, and can be stored wherever is convenient.
Adjustability
At What's the Best we know all too well how rare a one size fits all product is. That's why we recommend ones that offer a high degree of adjustability and customisation. This absolutely applies to mini exercise bikes. Many will offer adjustable toe straps do avoid a fit that's either too loose or too tight.
Some of the best mini exercise bikes will provide adjustable pedal height. This takes into account desks of varying heights, and also different seating positions.
Jack Barrell is a Tech and Fitness Writer and Reviewer for What’s the Best. He is invested in the entertainment space and also keeps well in the loop with the latest sports and exercise trends too. On his off days, Jack can usually be found either in the gym – or watching his favourite Star Wars for the thousandth time.
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