How Long Do Exercise Bikes Last?

Exercise bikes have been all the rage for the longest time in the workout community, and all for the right reasons. After all, not only are they a great way for you to lose weight, but exercise bikes are also easy to use and make for a great workout from home.

However, purchasing an exercise bike may come off as an expensive investment to some, leading many to wonder how long do exercise bikes last?

Typically, exercise bikes can last between 6 to 15 years, but this may differ depending on several factors. This includes the type of exercise bike you have, the quality, and how you maintain the exercise bike on a regular day.

Some exercise bikes also offer warranties to cover the frame, pedals, brakes, and other accessories as seen fit.

How to make an exercise bike last longer

Like most fitness equipment, performing regular maintenance and regular upkeep may be key to making your exercise bike last longer than 6 years. Here are some tips on how to make your exercise bike last longer.

Wipe it down after every use

To keep your exercise bike looking as good as new always, it’s recommended that you wipe it down after every use. This avoids sweat stains from accumulating on the seats or the dampness of your sweat from corroding the metal parts resulting in rust.

A good wipe with some mild soap and warm water will be sufficient to get this job done, but you’ll want to be sure to wipe it with a dry cloth at the end to avoid rust. Wiping down your exercise bike ensures you retain a good degree of hygiene in your workout area so you won’t have lingering bacteria on the exercise bike or in the surrounding areas.

Regularly tighten the pedals

After prolonged use, your pedals may come off loose and require tightening. You’ll want to perform a check every month to ensure the exercise bike is in good working condition and to avoid getting yourself injured.

You can perform self-checks on the pedals by grabbing onto the pedals and moving them from side to side. If you feel any loose parts coming off the exercise bike, then it’s time for you to tighten the pedals before any unwanted accidents happen.

Lubricate your chains and brake pads often

Once a month, you should look into lubricating your chains and brake pads of your exercise bike. This ensures that the plates are not grinding against each other and provide you a smoother workout session without injuring yourself along the way.

Do note that chains and brake pads can break down easily if they’re not regularly maintained and can effectively shorten the lifespan of your exercise bike.

The different types of exercise bikes for beginners

If you’re thinking of buying an exercise bike for the first time, perhaps it would be helpful to learn about the different types of exercise bikes there are in the market. Do note that each exercise bike may have its own pros and cons, and it’s up to you to seek what fits your demands best.

Dual-Action stationary bikes

Dual-action stationary bikes (see Amazon) are a common type of exercise bike that you will see being sold in most exercise stores. They combine the use of handlebars with the pedals, allowing you to exercise both your upper and lower body simultaneously.

Upright stationary bikes

Upright stationary bikes are also a common type of exercise bike and can often be bought cheaply at fitness stores or retail markets. It is easy to use but can be unsuitable for the elderly or anyone with back injuries as you must lean forward to utilize the handlebars.

Recumbent stationary bikes

A recumbent stationary bike is an exercise bike with a seat set parallel to the bike pedals. You’ll also get a backrest with the bike, making it more comfortable for the elderly or anyone with a back injury to use.

However, you may not get too much of a workout from recumbent stationary bikes. If you’re looking to lose weight with an exercise bike, then a recumbent stationary bike will not be for you.

Indoor cycle bikes

Indoor cycle bikes have become increasingly popular recently due to their construct and high-intensity workout capabilities. You’ll see a weighted flywheel attached to the pedals for extra resistance, forcing the rider to exert more effort to work the pedals.

Indoor cycle bikes are commonly seen at spin classes in gyms or in homes of professional cyclists who are training for marathons or other cycling competitions.

Fold-away stationary bikes

Finally, there are the fold-away stationary bikes. These bikes are generally built to be more lightweight and can be conveniently stowed away by folding up. They usually come in the form of an upright stationary bike or recumbent stationary bike.

Fold-away stationary bikes are great for anyone who wishes to have an exercise bike but has limited space in their homes. They are also inexpensive and can be purchased from any regular fitness store or retail market.