Spinning studios are far from a new trend, yet their popularity seems to have increased again - with the rise of Peloton, other virtual cycling apps and investing in your very own spin bike for your home gym.
Even though gyms and fitness centres offer stationary bikes, many of us can't access a gym or don't feel comfortable going to one. Or, maybe we've fallen in love with working out at home and the ease it brings us while the kids are in bed, for example. This is where a spinning bike comes in handy, as they are an easy and great way to get your cardio in, all from the comfort of your home.
Although a spinning bike may seem quite a significant investment, the exercise bike is an excellent piece of equipment to help you keep up with your regular fitness routine.
The best spin bikes at a glance
• Best budget spin bike: ProForm 500 SPX - View offer on Decathlon
• Best intermediate spin bike: Adidas C-21X - View offer on Decathlon
• Best budget smart bike: Apex Smart Bike - View offer on Apex Rides
• Best immersion spin bike: Wahoo KICKR Bike - View offer on Sigma Sports
And if you're already into spinning, many classes are recorded online, so investing in a spinning bike is an excellent way to complete your spin classes, even if it fits in a quick session on your lunch break.
On a budget? Don't worry. Our best spin bikes guide has a wide range of products so you won't be stuck for choice.
Plus, if you decide that a spin bike isn't for you just yet, you can check out our article on the best turbo trainers to use a bike you already own, such as the Tacx Neo 2T indoor bike trainer, which Adam Binnie has reviewed.
The best spin bikes for your workouts
The best budget spin bike
www.decathlon.co.uk
Description
The ProForm 500 SPX is the cheapest standalone spin bike in our round-up and the reduced cost are
Pros
- Low cost
- Easy to set-up
Cons
- Maintenance could be high due to resistance parts
Best for intermediate spinners
www.decathlon.co.uk
Description
The Adidas C-21X is a great bike, but there's no Bluetooth on this one, meaning you'll be working
Pros
- Easy to set up and adjust
- Heart rate monitor compatible
Cons
- No Bluetooth connectivity
Best mid-range spin bike
www.johnlewis.com
Description
There are some differences between this model of the ProForm and the 500 SPX at the top of the
Pros
- Dual stereo speakers
- Low maintenance
- Added cushioning on the seat
Cons
- Only 16 levels of resistance
Best affordable smart spin bike
apexrides.com
Description
To reach your fitness goals, Apex has delivered a Bluetooth-enabled and Wi-Fi-connected smart
Pros
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enabled
- Interesting design features
- Good price
Cons
- Water bottle holders not in the traditional place could make it awkward
Best smart spin bike
www.currys.co.uk
Description
Echelon has done what Peloton has done and taken its name from a cycling term. An echelon is where
Pros
- 10" integrated touchscreen
- Bluetooth compatible
- 32 levels of resistance
Cons
- Unsure how the touchscreen would deal with sweat
Best spin bike for immersion
www.sigmasports.com
Description
One of the most customisable and immersive stationary bikes out there - with built-in WiFi, which
Pros
- Fully customisable
- Immersive
- Well-respected brand
Cons
- Handlebar connectors can become damaged by perspiration
Best spin bike for dedicated riders
www.sigmasports.com
Description
The Tacx Neo is as adjustable as the Wahooo KICKR BIKE, yet the Neo Bike Plus doesn't tilt in the
Pros
- Two good fans
- USB Charge points
- Mimics real-life cycling
Cons
- Not as immersive as its rivals
Best for hard workouts
www.sigmasports.com
Description
Stages Cycling SB20 Smart Bike bring a level of customisation and riding just below the levels
Pros
- Huge power resistance
- Solid
- USB Charging points
Cons
- Not as accurate as its rivals
What should I look for in a spin bike?
There are several factors to consider when purchasing a spin bike, the first being the number of resistance levels it comes with. If you're a more experienced user, you'll want a spin bike that offers a wide range of resistance levels.
Another factor to consider is the height of your bike and how adjustable it is, as you need to make sure it can adjust to your hip height.
Lastly, your budget. Don't splash out on the most expensive bike if you only use it a few times a year. Make sure you're committed before you splurge.
The best indoor cycling and spinning subscription apps
If you're looking for motivation or spinning professionals to take you through your workouts, many options are available to get the most out of your new bike. From fitness apps to excellent YouTube tutorials, there's something for everyone.
Spin class apps are increasingly becoming more popular, the leading one being Peleton, of course, but there are others to suit every budget. Take a look here:
• Peleton, £12.99 per month, first two months free
• Zwift, £12.99 per month
• TacX, premium and premium HD memberships available, from £9.99 per month
• AARMY, £29 per month, 14-day free trial
• Apple Fitness +, £9.99 per month, one-month free trial
• Systm, £14.99, 14-day free trial
The best at-home FREE guided spinning tutorials
The Cadence Club have an amazing app, but you can also follow full workouts for free on their YouTube channel.
Studio SWEAT has some great free guided classes you can follow from home.
Myles is an Autos & Fitness Product Writer for What's The Best, Parkers and CAR. His areas of expertise include cycling, fitness tech and hot hatches.
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