Buying Guide for Spinning Bikes

Buying Guide for Spinning Bikes

Spinning is a proven way of losing fat. Studies reveal that one bout of moderate-intensity exercises may be replaced with two 30 minute sessions of spinning. Spinning also leads to an increase in the energy level and enhances strength in the lower body within just 2-3 weeks of use. Spinning burns several thousands of calories per hour. As a result, it is recommended for weight loss. Spinning strengthens the muscles and ligaments that are responsible for knee pain. So, fitness trainers say that spinning reduces knee pain.

Beginners are often confused about which spinning bike to buy. The market is flooded with spinning bikes of different shapes and features. In such a scenario, you must be aware of the features which you need to consider before buying a spinning bike.

• Budget:

Before you decide upon buying a spinning bike, you need first to draw a budget. As per your budget, you need to start looking for the spinning bikes which fulfill your needs. A person who needs to simply reduce a few pounds or need to concentrate on a specific set of muscles can go for a low-price spinning bike whereas a person who is looking forward to training some group of muscles or is practicing on a professional level needs to buy a high priced bike.

• Frame and legs:

An ideal spinning bike has a robust stabilizing frame and wide legs for the perfect balance. The legs should be wide enough to stay balanced even after being used rigorously.

Analyzing the structure is a tad complicated; if the customer is buying the spinning bike online. However, since most bikes have a solid frame, try to focus on the legs and make sure the legs are wide enough that the bike remains properly balanced even with the most rigorous of use.

• Flywheel weight:

The flywheel is the elevated wheel, which is located at the front of a spinning bike. It moves when a cyclist pedals the bike. The importance of the flywheel governs the motion of the bike. In fact, the heavier the wheel is, the smoother the movement is. Home-based spin bikes have a flywheel weight of approximately 40 lbs. Commercial spin bikes have a displacement of about 50 lbs. It is better to avoid buying a spin bike, which has a flywheel of fewer than 35 pounds. If the wheel weighs below 35 pounds, it is too light to offer a seamless motion.

• Drive System:

Spinning bikes have two different types of drive systems, i.e., chain-based and belt based. Fitness experts claim that it is advisable to opt for a belt based spinning bike. It is far more superior to its chain based counterpart. It doesn’t require as much maintenance as a chain based drive system. Also, adjusting the belts is easier. The belt-based spinning bikes generate lesser noise than their chain based counterparts. Models like Sunny SF-B1002 are recommended for being the best belt based spinning bikes.

• Mode of Resistance:

There are four types of resistance in a spinning bike- cable resistance, manual screw resistance, electronic resistance, and magnetic strength.

• Cable resistance is only available in low-end bikes. Fitness experts don’t recommend them because they tend to slip. This quality makes them unreliable.
• The manual screw resistance involves a knob. Simply put, it works as an analog system.
• Electronic, magnetic brakes apply to utilize a small hydraulic for moving a magnet to apply resistance to a flywheel.
• Electromagnetic systems use an electromagnetic field to create resistance. So, they do not need any moving parts.

FAQS:

What is the correct saddle height? Can the seat be changed if it is uncomfortable?

There is nothing called correct saddle height for all athletes. The best saddle height for one athlete may not be suitable for another athlete. When the user sits on the saddle or seat, there should be a slight bend on the knees. The leg should be positioned on the bottom pedal.

If the user sits for 30 minutes at a stretch, the seat might feel uncomfortable. The racing saddles that may come with some indoor bikes are hard and thin. So, they may prove more nervous than the positions of regular indoor bikes. So, many users place a gel seat cover over the top to increase the comfort level. They may also replace the existing uncomfortable seats with a more comfortable position.

Do indoor bikes need a lot of maintenance?

It is essential to clean the indoor bikes regularly. After each workout, the seat needs to be wiped off with a clean, dry cloth. The chain may need to be lubricated with oil frequently. Apart from these fundamental hygiene issues, an indoor bike doesn’t need much maintenance. The drive system is enclosed to prevent any damage. So, the user has to ensure that all the pedals, screws, and toe strap attachments are tightly fixed. If the indoor bikes are battery-operated, they need to be changed as soon as they start running low.

Is it possible to buy a fully assembled indoor bike?

Unfortunately, this feature is not available as yet. Generally, the customers need to assemble the indoor bike after it has been delivered. The installation might take any amount of time from 30 minutes to 3 hours. However, if the customer buys an indoor bike from a specialist store, he may pay them extra to send some along to assemble it.

Chain Drive or Belt Drive- who wins the debate?

Both the chain drive and belt drive have their pros and cons. A chain drive lasts longer. It also allows for backward and forward pedaling. The pedals are connected to the drive system. As a result, the pedals continue spinning until the user applies brakes. However, it is noisy.

On the contrary, the flywheel is free spinning in a belt drive system. However, the wheel spins independently, even after the customer stops pedaling. Eventually, the belt wears out and needs replacement. Luckily, it is an independent job.

What is the difference between Spin Bike and Upright bike?

A spin bike imitates a road bike. The drive system and pedals remain busy. The pedal and the flywheel continue to revolve simultaneously. On the other hand, an Upright Bike has a free-spinning magnetic flywheel. The brakes stop moving the moment the user stops pedaling.

Conclusion:

Spin bikes provide all body work out. Before investing in a particular model, the cardinal rule is to research the different models of spinning bikes and read their reviews buying opting to buy one. After all, the market is constantly being updated by newer models, and users might even find a newer model at a more affordable price.

This article will hopefully help you in choosing a spinning bike, which adheres to all your fitness needs and requirements. All forms of physical exercise is an absolute must for maintaining good health and overall well-being, but we shouldn’t forget about maintaining a healthy diet as well. A wisely chosen spinning bike paves the way for the excellent health of the user.

Keiser is a reputed brand in the world of fitness. It churns out premium fitness products. The Keiser M3i Indoor Bike, made of premium quality materials, is easy to assemble and is one of the best spin bikes available in the market. Reviews from top-level athletes reveal that it is the best indoor bike. Users often do not want to hit the gym when the weather is cold or rainy. This particular model makes people run out of excuses.

The built-in computer keeps track of the time on bike, calories. Watts and trip distance. A media tray provides space for the phone or tablet of the user. Along the V frame of the handlebars, there is space for a water bottle. They have light flywheels, a bright LCD, horizontal handlebars, and adjustable features. Diamondback Fitness 5101c is a cheaper alternative.