ProForm Exercise Bikes Review 2024
James
Brian pFor 30 years ProForm have been a leading player in the home fitness industry. One of the most recognized brands in the market, they have a reputation for excellence and service. In this article, we will take a look at their ten best selling models so you can determine which one would be perfect to meet your needs.
This is the best product on our list that is currently in stock:
10-inch full-color display
iFit enabled
22 levels of resistance
250-pound weight capacity
10 Best ProForm Exercise Bikes
1. Hybrid Trainer
Elliptical trainer and Recumbent bike
350-pound max user weight
16 workout programs
Needs constant lubrication to avoid squeakiness
The Hybrid Trainer has a large LCD window so you can easily monitor your fitness metrics. It features a quiet magnetic resistance and sixteen resistance levels. The soft handles help the grip of your hands. This machine has a 15-inch elliptical stride, as well as a target pacer, and large adjustable pedals. It even has a water bottle holder.
Read moreThe ProForm Hybrid is a cross between a recumbent bike and an elliptical trainer. It comes with plenty of workout programs good for any ability level. The 16 levels of resistance let you to slowly increase your training intensity. The 15-inch elliptical strider allows for a full, unrestricted range of motion. It has large adjustable pedals and full-length handles with multiple grips. EKG grip pulse allows you to monitor your pulse.
This hybrid trainer has a large, nicely curved and ventilated back as well as side handlebars. The seat is large and well padded. The frame is constructed with sturdy steel, which handles a 350-pound weight capacity. The large LCD window on the ProForm elliptical recumbent bike provides a clear print out of your essential training data. Transport wheels allow for ease of movement.
2. 325 CSX
Very good lumbar support
22 digital resistance levels
22 workout apps
A little noisy when operating at full speed
The 325 CSX model is a recumbent design with a chair-like seat which will give you good lumbar support. It has 20 digital resistance levels available. The bike has a 300-pound weight capacity. It also has a compatible music port for iPod so you can listen to music while you are exercising. There are also 22 workout apps on the bike.
Read moreThe ProForm 325 CSX is a recumbent bike that provides you with a full chair type seat to provide the best lumbar support that we’ve seen on any recumbent cycle. The seat features smooth glide adjustment and both it and the pedals are ergonomically positioned for ideal body placement. That means that you’ll be able to effectively work your hamstrings and glutes as well as your thighs.
The monitor is easy to read and gives you 22 levels of resistance and 22 workout apps, catering to all user levels. The inertia enhanced flywheel allows for a smooth pedaling experience. This recumbent cycle is also Bluetooth compatible and iFit enabled. It also has iPod ready speakers fitted. The max user weight is 300 pounds.
3. Duo Exercise Bike
14 resistance levels
Has pedals with straps
250-pound weight capacity
Easy to assemble
No Bluetooth support
The Duo Exercise Bike is a piece of workout equipment that lets you decide how intense you want your exercise to be. It features a durable steel frame which you can fold up and store if you are not using it. The seat is adjustable from an upright position for an intense workout to a recumbent position for a relaxed cool-down.
Read moreThe Duo Exercise Bike will let you customize your workout. It is probably the most versatile design which can easily be switched between a recumbent bike position and upright exercise position. It connects to your iFit account, which is sold separately and unlocks personal training in your home. You can head on a virtual journey all over the world. You can go through studio classes with your favorite personal trainer.
This bike lets you add variety to your workout by being able to adjust from an upright to a recumbent position. It has a special SpaceSaver Design which lets you fold up your bike and store it out of the way in a closet or corner.
This bike has a fluid, smooth pedal stroke using a flywheel with a faster gear ratio and weight placement to deliver a natural striding experience. It has an oversized seat with lots of cushioning which adjusts vertically.
4. Smart Power 10.0
10-inch full-color display
iFit enabled
22 levels of resistance
250-pound weight capacity
Handlebars do not adjust forward and backward
The Smart Power 10.0 has a full-color capacitive touch display on a 10-inch screen and it is iFit enabled. It also has iPod compatible sound with two 2-inch speakers. There are 22 digitally adjustable resistance levels. The seat and handlebar are fully adjustable.
Read moreSmart Power 10.0 will help you meet your fitness goals and comes with dumbbells so you can cross-train. It is compatible with iFit interactive personal training and comes with a year of free membership. The iFit lets you bike across the globe or join a studio class where your trainer can digitally control your machine for the full experience.
This bike has a 10-inch smart HD touch screen which you can use to follow your workout metrics or follow the iFit personal trainers through high-powered workouts. You can also enjoy cross-training with the included dumbbells, giving you a full-body workout.
This machine offers a smooth, quiet ride thanks to their patented Silent Magnetic Resistance. You can adjust your intensity without interrupting your workout or disturbing your neighbors.
This exercise bike comes with transport wheels mounted on the front so you can easily move it out of the way between workouts.
5. 135 CSX Upright Bike
12-pound flywheel
16 resistance levels
Large LCD display
EKG grip pulse
Power adaptor for the console not included
The 135 CSX Upright Bike gives you immediate access to training programs that are pre-loaded and are ready for instant use. There are 16 levels of digital resistance so you can progress to your workout goals. Each level offers a smooth and quiet transition using the patented silent magnetic resistance or SMR
Read moreThe 135 CSX has a handy step-through design an adjustable seat, and even a water bottle holder. When you are done with your workout, you can move the machine out of the way using the transport wheels. It has a 250-pound weight capacity.
This machine has 16 levels of digital resistance and 14 workout apps to help you keep your exercises interesting. The handle grips have EKG pulse monitors. The 12-pound flywheel is inertia enhanced. There is audio which is iPod compatible and a large LCD window display.
6. PFEX15917 440 ES Recumbent
32 onboard workouts
25 resistance levels
Lumbar support seat
iFit compatible
Takes a while to put together
The PFEX15917 is ready for your iFit coach. It also includes 32 onboard workouts. There are also 25 resistance levels and a seat with easy glide and lumbar support.
Read moreThis bike keeps you informed with a 5-inch backlit display so you can see your workouts and your progress. It features 32 onboard workouts which can give your exercise program plenty of variety.
It has an EKG heart rate monitor and a recumbent frame with a convenient step-thru design. There is an 18-pound flywheel to create silent magnetic resistance with 25 resistance levels.
The lumbar support seat has an easy glide. It has an adjustable console angle. The extra-wide ergonomic foot pedals have straps and a CoolAire workout fan to keep you cool while you exercise. It has an integrated tablet holder with DeVice grip design. There is also an audio aux port and a USB charging station. There is even a place to put your water bottle. It is easy to move out of the way when you are not using it since it has front-mounted transport wheels. Oversized leveling feet will help you get it level when you are ready for your next workout. This machine has a 350-pound weight capacity.
7. Desk Exercise Bike
Has a snap-on desk attachment
SpaceSaver design and transport wheels
Over-sized cushioned seat
EKG grip pulse
Hard to assemble
The Desk Exercise Bike is the perfect design for the multi-tasker. It has a snap-on desktop attachment. It also has an oversized cushioned seat and silent magnetic resistance. This bike has a special Spacesaver design with portability wheels which make it easy to move it out of the way when you are not using it.
Read moreThe Desk Exercise Bike is quiet and has a desktop attachment which you can connect in seconds. So you can exercise while powering through your to-do list. When you are done with your workout, you can fold it up and store it out of the way in just one step.
Other bikes can be loud, but this one uses magnetic resistance so you can get more intensity without irritating noises. There are low hand grips which give you an alternative position for your hands.
The inertia-enhanced flywheel has a fast gear ratio and good weight placement. The large LCD display will help you track your progress showing you how faster you are going, your speed, distance, and how many calories you burn. The handlebars have built-in EKG grips which track your heart rate.
It also has non-slip ridges and a large bottom lip. The seat is large and padded and adjusts for any body type. The backrest is also well padded to protect your back while you work out. The pedals have toe cages and straps to keep your feet in place. There is even a water bottle holder.
Transport wheels on this machine make it easy to position the machine just where you want it or move it out of the way between workouts. It has a 250-pound weight capacity.
8. 8.0 EX Exercise Bike
25 resistance levels
30 onboard workouts
Oversized cushioned seats
16-pound flywheel
Have to pay for the iFit coach
The 8.0 EX is ready for your iFit Coach. There are 30 onboard workouts included in the bike. It also has 25 resistance levels so your intensity can grow as your fitness level does. The oversized seat is well cushioned to keep you comfortable and is adjustable so it will fit any body type.
Read moreThis bike is set up to work with iFit Coach and has a 5-inch backlit display which will keep you informed about your workout. It has an EKG heart rate monitor. The frame is upright so you can be at the perfect angle for intense workouts.
This bike featured a 16-pound inertia-enhanced flywheel. The seat is large and cushioned which is adjustable. It also includes a CoolAire workout Fan and a tablet holder. You can also enjoy little extras like an audio port so you can enjoy music and even a USB charging station as well as a water bottle holder.
The bike has transport wheels mounted to the front so it is easy to position right where you want it. Then when you are done with your workout, you can easily move it into a corner or somewhere out on the way. When you put it back, the oversized leveling feet help you easily get it level and ready to ride with 25 resistance levels. It has a 300-pound weight capacity.
9. 225 CSX Upright Bike
18 digital resistance levels
Ergonomic pedals with adjustable straps
Has an upright frame
iFit compatible console
Hard to set up
The 225 CSX is an upright exercise bike. It has 18 digital resistance levels so you can gradually progress your fitness level. It has an iFit compatible console. The 14-pound inertia-enhanced flywheel provides a steady resistance so you can get a quality workout. It also has a dual-grip EKG heart monitor. The compatible music port supports iPod so you can plug in and listen to music and the oversized, cushioned seat is adjustable.
Read moreUse the 225 CSX Upright Bike to reach your fitness goals. This indoor bike will give you a pulse-pounding workout and carefully track your progress. The LED display helps you to monitor distance, heart rate, and more. It is compatible with iPods so you can enjoy music and with Bluetooth workout apps.
The frame is constructed from thick steel and uses a flywheel drive to give you a smooth and realistic ride. The magnetic resistance gives you 20 levels of intensity so you can switch up your sessions and the padded adjustable seat gives you comfortable while you do.
10. TDF Exercise Bike
Incline and decline capabilities
Made of commercial-grade steel
Ergonomic padded seat
Toe cage and clip-in pedals
Hard to adjust for multiple users
The TDF Exercise Bike is also compatible with the iFit coaching system. You get instant access to the studio cycling classes. It features 24 workout apps on an upright bike which is as close to the real thing as possible. This sturdy bike is made of solid steel.
Read moreThis bike is all set up iFit Coach and is Bluetooth compatible. It comes with a clear LED Display as well as 24 Tour De France Workout Apps to help get you inspired. The EKG heart rate monitor is Bluetooth compatible. The frame is an upright design made of solid steel. It has digital gears with shifting controls which are electronic.
This bike has the ability to incline and decline of up to 15 percent. It has an ergonomic, Padded Seat as well as multi-position, adjustable handlebars. Your feet will be comfortable with the toe cage and clip-in pedals. The resistance comes from an inertia-enhanced flywheel.
There are a few smaller features as well including an integrated tablet holder with the DeVice Grip™ Design. There is also an audio auxiliary port for music and a water bottle holder. When you are finished with your workout you can use the front-mounted transport wheels to move the machine out of the way.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Features
The ProForm exercise bikes are designed to make your workout experience the highest quality available. They are made of durable steel to stand up to intense, repeated use. The magnetic resistance is provided by a heavy-duty flywheel which gives you a smooth ride.
These bikes are set up to be compatible with the iFit program which takes your workout to a whole new level. You can enjoy virtually traveling the globe as you pedal or working with one of their coaches in real-time.
These bikes have an extra-large seat with comfortable thick cushioning. They are adjustable to match with your body type. You will easily be able to sit and workout for extended periods of time.
The handles vary between the models available. All of them have the standard bike handles in that position, some more forward and others more straight up. Some of the models have handles down next to the seat. The Hybrid also has elliptical handles so you can do either type of exercise. A lot of the handles have built-in EKG pulse sensors in the handles.
The pedals are designed to take care of your feet during your workout. They are oversized to match any size foot. Some are textured to help you keep your feet in place. Others have ridges and many of them have toe cages and straps to keep your feet in place.
Most of these models have clear easy to read display consoles which you can use to monitor your fitness metrics and see how close you are to your goals. You can also use it for the many iFit programs available. It is a great way to stay on target and inspired toward your fitness goals.
Ease of Use
ProForm exercise bikes are easy to use. One of the easiest aspects is the inclusion of the iFit program. It makes it easier to be inspired for your workout when you can virtually ride through beautiful areas of the globe or when you have a professional coach on the screen in front of you guiding you through the workout.
The seat helps with this ease by having plenty of padding and being oversized so they are comfortable to sit on for the period of time in which you are doing your workout. The pedals are also easy because they are ergonomic at the perfect angle and most have some sort of toe cages and straps to keep your feet in place so you can easily pedal.
These bikes have consoles which have clear LCD displays. You can use it to monitor your fitness stats and track your way to your goal. Many of the bikes also come with preset workout programs so you can switch it up.
The bike should be easy to assemble when you first get it. All the pieces should be there and easy to identify and the instructions should be easy to follow as well. When you are finished with your workout session, your bike should be easy to fold up and maybe even have wheels so you can move it out of the way.
The other thing which needs to be easy is the resistance adjustments. There should be plenty of levels of resistance so you can start at a beginner's level and work your way up as your fitness improves. The resistance should be easy to adjust between the levels so you can keep a smooth ride going.
Durability
ProForm exercise bikes are built to be made durable. The frame is made of sturdy steel. Before you decide which model you want, be sure to check the weight capacity of the machine. You want one which is strong enough to hold you at your current weight and at your goal weight.
The flywheel should be sturdy and a good weight which will give you the amount of resistance and in the levels you need for your desired workout.
The seat should be durable with good high-quality padding which is covered with a sturdy upholstery and stitching. The handle should have good padding as well which is high density and made to stand up to plenty of use while keeping your hands comfortable.
The pedals should be sturdy and tightly affixed to the bike, but still, give you a smooth pedaling experience. The toe cage or straps should be durable as well and designed to last.
Effectiveness
ProForm is great at creating exercise bikes which are effective. They are built sturdy and have everything you need to get a good workout.
The most important aspect to be effective is resistance. These bikes have a magnetic resistance which is digitally controlled. That makes for a smooth ride. It is also easy to adjust so you can vary your workout and challenge yourself.
It also helps to have an exercise bike which is adjustable. There are multiple options like the hybrid bike which adjusts to change from riding to using the elliptical portion of the machine. Some of the models can adjust between being upright or recumbent.
Having a bike which is adjustable makes your whole workout more effective. The seat is ergonomic and oversized, and it can be adjusted to the perfect position to match your body. The pedals and handlebars also adjust to the perfect position so you can get an effective workout.
These bikes also have built-in workout programs you can use to increase your fitness level and vary your workout. The console also tells you how many miles you have gone, how long you have been pedaling, how many calories you have burned, and other criteria which can keep you informed on how you are progressing and keep you focused on your goal.
Portability
An exercise bike is definitely not something you can fold up and put in your gym bag so you have to consider the size when you are choosing which one to get.
If you are limited on space, it is nice to have a bike which will fold up when you are not using it. Most of the ProForm bikes have transport wheels so you can position them where you want to work out or you can easily move them out of the way when you are finished with your workout.
Expert Interviews & Opinions
Features Ease of Use Durability Effectiveness Portability
The workout apps in these bikes are designed by a certified personal trainer. They let you have the variety of a different workout every day. The level of resistance you use automatically adjusts while you are using the app. You can choose a workout which focuses on performance, intensity, resistance, weight loss, calorie-burning, speed, or interval workouts. It is a great way to challenge yourself and keep yourself motivated.
It is important that you take the time to make sure your exercise bike is adjusted correctly before you start your workout. If your bike is improperly adjusted you will not get the full benefit of the ride. You could also be risking injury. If your seat is too high, you could overextend your knees, your back, or your hips. If you are riding too low, it can strain your lower back and knees.
Other Factors to Consider
Comfort
You will probably be spending a fair amount of time on your exercise bike, so you will want one which is comfortable to use. ProForm takes care of that with their oversized seats. They are well-padded and designed to give you extra lumbar support.
They also have handlebars which are padded with high-density foam to keep your hands comfortable as well as avoiding slipping. The pedals are also oversized so your foot is sure to fit. They have toe cages or straps which help to keep your feet ergonomically angled and comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: How does magnetic resistance work?
As you increase the resistance, the internal magnets are positioned closer to the moving flywheel, creating tension. When the resistance decreases, the magnets are moved farther away, and the bike is easier to pedal.
q: What are the biggest benefits of an exercise bike?
A good exercise bike workout routine has a huge amount of benefits for your body. You will find yourself losing some weight and trimming up. Your legs will quickly get some good tone and your muscles will get stronger. An exercise is also easy on your joints and offers great cardio. You will also find yourself having a lot more energy.
q: Are exercise bikes good for your back?
If you have concerns with lower back issues, one of the recumbent style models may be the best idea for you. They have a nice backrest which will give you good support while you work out.
The upright bikes give you a good aerobic workout and will also help to make your lower body stronger with next to no impact.
q: Is an exercise bike better than a treadmill?
Both of these machines are effective so it mostly depends on your personal needs. The treadmill will probably burn more calories than riding an exercise bike. Both of them have great benefits which will improve your health, maintain muscles, and just promote your general well-being.
q: Can you ride the exercise bike every day?
Yes, you can safely use the exercise bike as part of your daily exercise routine and, in fact, it is very beneficial for people with joint problems. The bike most works on your lower body though, so you may need to add some upper body activities to take care of your whole body.
Sources
- , Exercise Bike Benefits, Article
- , What Muscles Are You Toning?, Article
- , 8 Key Benefits of Exercise Bikes, Article
- , Are Exercise Bikes Good For Toning Legs?, Article
- , Exercises That Help Ease Back Pain, Article
