Fitness Bike

Exercise Bikes, More Than Just Clothes Racks

In the world of home exercise equipment, few pieces have been around as long as the exercise bike. Although exercise bikes (fitness bikes, studio bikes) received a bad rap for a number of years, being used as clothes hangers, etc., the new versions are sleek, silent, and easy to use.

There are two basic types of exercise bikes, the upright and the recumbent. An upright is what most people think of when they think of exercise bikes. The upright is closest to a regular bike, narrow saddle, pedals below the rider, handle bars out front. On the other hand, a recumbent exercise bike has a wider seat with a small back support. The pedals are out front, and the rider is in a reclined position. Both bikes have good and bad points as we shall see.

The traditional setup of an upright bike allows the rider to more closely simulate an actual bike ride than possible with a recumbent. The rider is able to stand, assume a race crouch, or a neutral position. Trouble is, if the rider has any sort of back problems, especially lower back, an upright can irritate the condition leading to worse problems. An upright is more difficult to get on and off of because of a higher proximity to the ground. This can be problematic for older or overweight people. An upright takes up less room than a recumbent. You may want to keep this in mind if your exercise area is on the small side.

A recumbent exercise bike is easier on riders with lower back troubles, and is lower to the ground, allowing riders that have difficulties getting on an upright to still be able to get a workout on an exercise bike. Don't let the recumbents seemingly easier ride make you think you're not getting a total workout; you are. a recumbent does have a larger footprint, keep this in mind when deciding where to put your workout gear.

Exercise bikes have come a long way from the simple, noisy, boring rides they once were. Modern bikes have a dizzying array of electronics that allow you to program a ride that simulates hills and other riding conditions. Most bikes, both upright and recumbent, now come with a sophisticated control panel that will keep you updated on your workout by giving you feedback on such items as heart rate, calories burned, speed, distance, and watts. The resistance system on most exercise bikes is magnetic. The bikes take advantage of a magnets ability to repel and attract to change resistance on the fly, enabling the rider to experience real time varying conditions. This type of resistance also gives the bikes whisper quiet operation.

An exercise bike workout is a excellent way to receive both cardio and aerobic workouts as well as leg and back muscle strength. Unlike a treadmill or roadwork, an exercise bike will not jar your joints, the workouts are very low impact. In addition to the basic types, a dual action bike is available. These bikes have handlebars linked to the drive system so you get an arm and upper body workout at the same time as your lower body workout.

Deals on exercise bikes can be found both on and off line. Make sure to do a little homework on the party you are buying from. Used bikes can be found on auction sites like Ebay, or specialty stores like Second Wind. Another source to consider is buying used bikes from a fitness center when they upgrade. You may be able to get a club quality bike for a good price.

About the Author

To find out more about portable exercise bicycles, and exercise bikes in general,

visit:
Exer-Cycles. Learn where to get

parts, how to maintain a bike, and what to look for when purchasing one.

John Phillips owns and operates http://exer-cycles.com

Wahoo Fitness Spare Cover for Wahoo Bike Case $14.99 Wahoo Fitness Spare Cover for Wahoo Bike Case. Replacement lid for your Wahoo Fitness Bike Case.

Wahoo Fitness Extra Wahoo Bike Case Mount $14.99 Wahoo Fitness Extra Wahoo Bike Case Mount. If you have a second bike, you'll need an extra mount for your Wahoo Fitness Bike Case.

Wahoo Fitness Bike Case for iPhone $119.99 Wahoo Fitness Bike Case for iPhone. The Wahoo Fitness Bike Case wirelessly connects your iPhone to any ANT+ measuring device for easy access to your phone, favorite playlists, the best fitness Apps and real-time activity info. It's even compatible with heart rate sensors. This full featured bike case fits in the palm of your hand or can be mounted to your bike.

2011 Focus Corrente Fitness Bike $999 2011 Focus Corrente Fitness Bike. If you like your fitness sessions light, fast and lively, you'll love the Focus Corrente, because that's exactly how this fitness bike rides. With a responsive aluminum frame, easy shifting Shimano Tiagra 27-speed drivetrain, and lightweight Concept aluminum wheels, the Focus Corrente fitness bike makes getting fit fun.

2011 Focus Arriba Fitness Bike $699 2011 Focus Arriba Fitness Bike. Cycling is a great way to gain, maintain and boost overall physical fitness. If you've been thinking about taking up cycling as part of your fitness routine, the Focus Arriba is a perfect bike to start with -- and a great bike for down the road, too. You get German design and engineering, quality aluminum frame and fork and Shimano components in a durable and lightweight package that will help make your fitness routine fun and rewarding.

Wahoo Fitness Speed and Cadence Bike Sensor $49.99 Wahoo Fitness Speed and Cadence Bike Sensor. The Wahoo Fitness Bike Sensor tracks speed and cadence during your ride. It's easier to read data on your iPhone when sensor is paired with the Wahoo Fitness Key or Bike Case.

2012 Charge Tap Fitness Bike $749.99 2012 Charge Tap Fitness Bike. Dig the clean lines of a flat bar fixie, but prefer more gears for when the streets get steep? Then check out the Charge Tap. This hub-geared, Tange Infinity chromoly fitness bike gives you eight speeds for tackling just about any terrain, and throws in full-coverage fenders for all-weather protection, Tektro caliper brakes for efficient speed control and rugged Alex double-wall rims for comfortable commuting and cruising. It's a stylish, simple, and practical bike that's fun to ride and easy to maintain.

2012 Charge Scourer Fitness Bike $699.99 2012 Charge Scourer Fitness Bike. Designed by mountain bikers who came down with a case of roadie fever, the Charge Scourer is a functional fusion of features from each of the respective riding disciplines. Lightweight alloy frame and fork? Check. Compact double crankset, Shimano derailleurs and wide-spaced, 9-speed rear gearing? But of course. The guys at Charge even threw in Tektro mechanical disc brakes, sturdy Alex DP17 700c rims, smooth-rolling Continental tires and a full complement of mounting points for fenders and racks. All of which make the Scourer an ideal bike for commuting, urban cruising or casual road riding.

Wahoo Fitness Protector Bike Case for iPhone $59.99 Wahoo Fitness Protector Bike Case for iPhone. The rugged Wahoo Fitness Protector Bike Case protects your iPhone from water and shock while allowing complete access to GPS maps, phone and music playlists. Easily mounts to the handlebar or stem of most bikes.

2012 Diamondback Insight Fitness Bike -- Performance Exclusive $399.99 2012 Diamondback Insight Fitness Bike -- Performance Exclusive. Looking for a great-performing, hiqh-quality fitness bike that's also a great value? All you need is Insight. It has an aluminum frame, aerodynamic, straight blade fork, low-rise Mountain Bike handlebar and rugged Shimano shifters and drivetrain. Lightweight Equation wheels with sturdy double-wall rims roll fast and smooth, and alloy linear-pull brakes put efficient braking power at your fingertips.

2012 GT Tachyon 3.0 Fitness Bike $779.99 2012 GT Tachyon 3.0 Fitness Bike. No matter what draws you to the road -- fitness, fun or commuting --the Tachyon 3.0 Fitness bike has all the features you need to enjoy your ride to the max. It features a lightweight aluminum frame, a comfortable, upright seating position, wide-range Shimano road gearing, flat bar shifters that make gear changes a breeze and smooth-rolling 700c wheels that help you get up to speed fast.

Wahoo Fitness Key for iPhone $79.99 Wahoo Fitness Key for iPhone. The Wahoo Fitness Key wirelessly connects your iPhone 3G/3GS/4/4S, iPod Touch or iPad to any ANT+ measuring device for easy access to your phone, favorite playlists, the best fitness Apps and real-time activity info. It's even compatible with heart rate sensors. This full featured key fits in the palm of your hand or strapped to your arm.

Performance Balance Kid's Bike $79.99 Performance Balance Kid's Bike. Bumps, bruises, scrapes and scratches. It's a kid's life, isn't it? When it comes to learning how to balance a bike, most kids spend more time sprawled out on the sidewalk than on their new ride. To make that transition a bit easier, we've developed a bike that teaches your little one coordination, balance, control and most importantly...confidence! p This bicycle is part of our bKid's Bike Growth Program. bra href=/images/performance/web/PDFs/09_GrowthGuarantee_handout_Chart.pdf target=newView our Kid's Bike Age and Sizing Chart/a/b to help you decide which bike is best for your child. p Riding with your kids is a fun adventure. Encourage fun, fitness and safety with ourbr a href=http://www.performancebike.com/images/performance/web/PDFs/10_KidsColoringBook.pdf?cm_mmc=Performance-_-Product%20Copy-_-Product%20Detail%20page%20copy-_-Kids%20Coloring%20Book%20product%20page target=newBPerformance Bicycle Kid's Fun, Fitness and Safety Coloring Book [PDF]/B/ap bDownload it here to get your kid ready to ride!/b

Schwinn Tailwind Electric Bike $999 Schwinn Tailwind Electric Bike. For less than what it's going to cost to fill up the family minivan over the next six months, you could be cruising to work and around town on the Schwinn Tailwind Electric Bike. The Tailwind's Toshiba battery charges in less than 30 minutes and has a range of up to 20 miles or more. Equipped with fenders, dynamo-powered front and rear lights and a rear lock, the Schwinn Tailwind can help you shed the gas-guzzling habit, increase your fitness and save money at the same time. pa href=/images/performance/web/PDFs/Schwinn-Electric-Bike-Assembly.pdf target=_blankSPECIAL ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS/a/p

Shimano Women's SH-WM50 Mountain Bike Shoes $99.99 Shimano Women's SH-WM50 Mountain Bike Shoes. These multipurpose, women's cycling shoes are designed for commuting, recreational, road, trail and fitness riding.

2010 GT Nomad LTD Comfort Bike $349 2010 GT Nomad LTD Comfort Bike. From bike path to hard-pack, the top-end GT Nomad LTD Comfort Bike has all the features you need to get you there and back in total comfort. Upright riding position is perfect for fitness riding, commuting and general recreational cycling.

2010 GT Nomad LTD Women's Comfort Bike $349 2010 GT Nomad LTD Women's Comfort Bike. From bike path to hard-pack, the top-end GT Nomad LTD Women's Comfort Bike has all the features you need to get you there and back in total comfort. Upright riding position is perfect for fitness riding, commuting and general recreational cycling.

2012 Diamondback Outlook Mountain Bike $249.99 2012 Diamondback Outlook Mountain Bike. If you've been on the lookout for a real value in a dependable, entry-level mountain bike for fun and fitness, put down those binocs and throw a leg over the 2012 Diamondback Outlook. Equipped with a sturdy, alloy frame, suspension fork, Shimano derailleurs and shifters, lightweight alloy linear-pull brakes and multipurpose tires, the Diamondback Outlook mountain bike has everything you need to start having fun, no matter where you want to go.

2011 Diamondback Outlook Mountain Bike $239.99 2011 Diamondback Outlook Mountain Bike. If you've been on the lookout for a real value in a dependable, entry-level mountain bike for fun and fitness, put down those binocs and throw a leg over the 2011 Diamondback Outlook. Equipped with a sturdy, high-tensile steel frame, suspension fork, Shimano derailleurs and shifters, lightweight alloy linear-pull brakes and multipurpose tires, the Diamondback Outlook mountain bike has everything you need to start having fun, no matter where you want to go.

Carmichael Training Systems Cycling For Fitness DVD $24.99 Carmichael Training Systems Cycling For Fitness DVD. Build endurance and achieve a higher level of fitness with this Carmichael Training Systems DVD.

Giro Carbide Mountain Bike Shoes $99.99 Giro Carbide Mountain Bike Shoes. If you ride the trails for fun and fitness, you'll appreciate the comfort and performance features of the Carbide Mountain Bike shoes. Injected nylon outsole increases power transfer while the dual-density lugs effectively shed mud and dirt. Molded EVA footbed with antibacterial treatment provides excellent foot support. Precision Fit last gives you a near-custom feel, microfiber upper enhances breathability and three wide straps allow quick adjustment.

Schwinn Tailwind Women's Electric Bike $899 Schwinn Tailwind Women's Electric Bike. For less than what it's going to cost to fill up the family minivan over the next six months, you could be cruising to work and around town on the Schwinn Tailwind Electric Bike. The Tailwind's Toshiba battery charges in less than 30 minutes and has a range of up to 20 miles or more. Equipped with fenders, dynamo-powered front and rear lights and a rear lock, the Schwinn Tailwind can help you shed the gas-guzzling habit, increase your fitness and save money at the same time. pa href=/images/performance/web/PDFs/Schwinn-Electric-Bike-Assembly.pdf target=_blankSPECIAL ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS/a/p

2012 Scattante R340 Road Bike Black 48 $849.99 2012 Scattante R340 Road Bike Black 48. The new Scattante R340 road bike is indisputable proof that you don't have to spend a lot to get a lot of bike when you shop at Performance. Featuring a lightweight aluminum frame, 27-speed triple crank drivetrain with Shimano Sora shifters and derailleurs, dependable dual-pivot brakes and a responsive Alex alloy wheelset, it's the best value around in a true performance-oriented road bike for recreational and fitness riding.

2012 Scattante R340 Road Bike Black 51 $849.99 2012 Scattante R340 Road Bike Black 51. The new Scattante R340 road bike is indisputable proof that you don't have to spend a lot to get a lot of bike when you shop at Performance. Featuring a lightweight aluminum frame, 27-speed triple crank drivetrain with Shimano Sora shifters and derailleurs, dependable dual-pivot brakes and a responsive Alex alloy wheelset, it's the best value around in a true performance-oriented road bike for recreational and fitness riding.

2012 Scattante R340 Road Bike Black 54 $849.99 2012 Scattante R340 Road Bike Black 54. The new Scattante R340 road bike is indisputable proof that you don't have to spend a lot to get a lot of bike when you shop at Performance. Featuring a lightweight aluminum frame, 27-speed triple crank drivetrain with Shimano Sora shifters and derailleurs, dependable dual-pivot brakes and a responsive Alex alloy wheelset, it's the best value around in a true performance-oriented road bike for recreational and fitness riding.

2012 Scattante R340 Road Bike Black 57 $849.99 2012 Scattante R340 Road Bike Black 57. The new Scattante R340 road bike is indisputable proof that you don't have to spend a lot to get a lot of bike when you shop at Performance. Featuring a lightweight aluminum frame, 27-speed triple crank drivetrain with Shimano Sora shifters and derailleurs, dependable dual-pivot brakes and a responsive Alex alloy wheelset, it's the best value around in a true performance-oriented road bike for recreational and fitness riding.

2012 Scattante R340 Road Bike Black 60 $849.99 2012 Scattante R340 Road Bike Black 60. The new Scattante R340 road bike is indisputable proof that you don't have to spend a lot to get a lot of bike when you shop at Performance. Featuring a lightweight aluminum frame, 27-speed triple crank drivetrain with Shimano Sora shifters and derailleurs, dependable dual-pivot brakes and a responsive Alex alloy wheelset, it's the best value around in a true performance-oriented road bike for recreational and fitness riding.

2012 Fuji Cross 3.0 Cyclocross Bike $1079.99 2012 Fuji Cross 3.0 Cyclocross Bike. Cyclocross is a great way to sharpen your fitness and bike handling skills in the off-season. And thanks to the Fuji Cross 3.0 cyclocross bike, it's also affordable. The Fuji Cross 3.0 features a flattened top tube for shouldering the bike more comfortably and securely, a lightweight alloy fork with plenty of clearance for even the most mud-slathered cross tires, 20-speed Shimano drivetrain and Tektro cantilever brakes powered by Shimano dual-control levers.

Fuji Cross 3.0 Cyclocross Bike -- Performance Exclusive $899.99 Fuji Cross 3.0 Cyclocross Bike -- Performance Exclusive. Cyclocross is a great way to sharpen your fitness and bike handling skills in the off-season. And thanks to the Fuji Cross 3.0 cyclocross bike, it's also affordable. The Fuji Cross 3.0 features a flattened top tube for shouldering the bike more comfortably and securely, a lightweight alloy fork with plenty of clearance for even the most mud-slathered cross tires, 20-speed Shimano drivetrain and Tektro cantilever brakes powered by Shimano dual-control levers.

2010 GT Tachyon 3.0 Comfort Bike $449 2010 GT Tachyon 3.0 Comfort Bike. Whether you ride for fitness, for fun or for commuting, the entry-level Tachyon 3.0 Comfort bike has all the features you need to enjoy your ride to the max, including hydroformed aluminum tube frame, internal cable routing, road gearing and flat bar shifters.

Fuji Cross 3.0 Cyclocross Bike $799 Fuji Cross 3.0 Cyclocross Bike. Why spend your weekend afternoons sitting in front of the tube watching a bunch of guys grinding each other into the gridiron when you could be outside, grinding gears on the cyclocross course? Cyclocross is dirty. It's fun. And it's a great way to sharpen your fitness and bike handling skills in the off-season. And thanks to the Fuji Cross 3.0 cyclocross bike, it's also affordable. The Fuji Cross 3.0 is sturdy, lightweight, and spec'd to perform. It features a flattened top tube for shouldering the bike more comfortably and securely, a lightweight alloy fork with plenty of clearance for even the most mud-slathered cross tires, and Tektro cantilever brakes powered by Shimano dual-control levers and Tektro bar-top levers for extra control. Kenda Kwick Cross tires deliver the traction you'll need for powering up hills and staying upright in the corners, and the speed you'll want for shaving seconds on the flats--that is, unless you decide you'd rather stay flat on the couch, instead.

2012 Schwinn Vestige City Bike $1429.99 2012 Schwinn Vestige City Bike. Schwinn calls the Vestige a commuter bike with an eco-twist. We call it just plain cool.That's because the Vestige is made from flax fibers, a renewable and recyclable resource that performs much like carbon when it comes to damping road vibrations. Water-based paint, partially biologically sourced resin, bamboo grips and fenders and Schwalbe tires with recycled content puncture protection round out the Schwinn Vestige's eco-friendly palmares. But aside from its minimalistic carbon footprint, the Vestige holds a few other tricks up its sleeve -- er, in its tubes, actually. It turns out that flax fiber frames are partially translucent, which prompted the Vestige's designers to add dynamo-powered LED lights inside the top tube and downtube, producing the world's first commuter bike that glows in the dark. And as if all that wasn't enough to commend the Vestige, it also features a 9-speed Shimano drivetrain, dependable alloy V-brakes, lightweight alloy double-wall wheels and rear rack mounts, making it a highly capable commuter, cruiser or all-around fun and fitness bike with a unique personality.

2012 Fuji Absolute 3.0 Road Bike Performance Exclusive $469.99 2012 Fuji Absolute 3.0 Road Bike Performance Exclusive. Rated a top performer in the fitness road category by Consumer Reports, the Fuji Absolute 3.0 road bike is a great choice for commuting and casual fitness riding. With its alloy frame, flat bars and sturdy road bike wheels with narrow tires, it offers a perfect combination of comfort, utility and performance.

2011 Fuji Newest 4.0 Road Bike $399 2011 Fuji Newest 4.0 Road Bike. The Fuji Newest 4.0 is a comfortable, all-around road bike that's perfect for fitness riding, commuting or just cruising around the neighborhood. It features a compact aluminum frame with 24-speed drivetrain, Shimano shifters and derailleurs, dual-pivot caliper brakes and responsive alloy wheels -- everything you need to make your time in the saddle enjoyable.

2011 GT Tachyon 3.0 Road Bike $499.99 2011 GT Tachyon 3.0 Road Bike. No matter what draws you to the road -- fitness, fun or commuting --the Tachyon 3.0 Comfort bike has all the features you need to enjoy your ride to the max. It features a hydroformed aluminum frame, an upright seating position, wide-range Shimano road gearing and flat bar shifters that make gear changes a breeze.

2012 GT Tachyon 3.0 Women's Comfort Bike $779.99 2012 GT Tachyon 3.0 Women's Comfort Bike. No matter what draws you to the road -- fitness, fun or commuting --the Tachyon 3.0 Women's Comfort bike has all the features you need to enjoy your ride. It features a hydroformed aluminum frame, an upright seating position, wide-range Shimano road gearing and flat bar shifters that make gear changes a breeze.

2011 Fuji Finest 3.0 Women's Road Bike $599 2011 Fuji Finest 3.0 Women's Road Bike. Perfect for fitness or long-distance riding. The Fuji Finest 3.0 women's road bike features a lightweight, women's-specific aluminum frame, vibration-damping carbon fork, triple cranks, women's-specific saddle and reach-adjustable brake levers to enhance comfort and maximize performance.

Shimano Women's SH-WM51 Mountain Bike Shoes $99.99 Shimano Women's SH-WM51 Mountain Bike Shoes. No matter what type of riding you enjoy, the SM-WM51 women's bike shoes can handle it. High-traction outsole is perfect for commuting, recreational, road, trail or fitness riding. Flexible insole provides superior comfort and stability when walking. Stretch-resistant upper gives you a great fit, mesh inserts enhance breathability and offset Velcro straps eliminate hot spots.

Adams Original Folder 1 Trail-A-Bike $149 Adams Original Folder 1 Trail-A-Bike. Remember the thrill of learning to ride your first bike? Along with the excitement and rush, you may have had some scrapes and bumps to boot. Give the joy of riding without falling to your child with this Trail-a-Bike. Safe and sturdy, this caboose allows you and your buddy to cruise the neighborhood or explore a rails-to-trails stretch together. p Riding with your kids is a fun adventure. Encourage fun, fitness and safety with ourbr a href=http://www.performancebike.com/images/performance/web/PDFs/10_KidsColoringBook.pdf?cm_mmc=Performance-_-Product%20Copy-_-Product%20Detail%20page%20copy-_-Kids%20Coloring%20Book%20product%20page target=newBPerformance Bicycle Kid's Fun, Fitness and Safety Coloring Book [PDF]/B/ap bDownload it here to get your kid ready to ride!/b

2012 ElliptiGO 3C Outdoor Fitness Device $1799.99 2012 ElliptiGO 3C Outdoor Fitness Device. What if you could run, sprint and climb hills every day and never be sidelined by impact-related injuries? On the ElliptiGO 3C, you'll get a high-intensity workout without the jarring impact of running. The 3C is the perfect fitness solution for everyday fitness enthusiasts or cross-training athletes who will ride on relatively flat terrain and only require a basic range of workout resistance levels.

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