Gym bikes

[Donger]

An exercise bike is really nothing much like riding a bike outside, but better than nothing. I use my exercise bike in front of the tv

I agree. They are not very alike at all. I only ever use one when the weather is appalling and there is very little opportunity for a real ride. It is worth giving it a go, though, because you can test out your breathing technique and see its effect on your heart rate. Last time I used a gym bike, I was quite pleased to see my heart rate plunging when I started taking bigger and deeper breaths and keeping my back straight instead of hunching.

 

[rb58]

I'm a regular spinner, and have been for a few years. I've found it has really helped with technique - my average cadence is significantly increased for example. But above all, at my gym, they are great fun, especially the ones taught by a cyclists.

As others have said, there's a significant difference between a gym bike and a spin bike, and both are different from a cycle trainer such as Wattbike or Kettler Racer S. (I thinking of getting Kettler for home use as it'll take less space than a turbo set up and is quieter than a Wattbike). The high end machines like the Wattbike can help with pedalling technique - getting left and right leg balanced etc. by training with the power meter.

Being able to mix it up - keep riding through the winter, spin classes, cycle trainer at home - helps with motivation too.

 

[stoneyloon]

Well folks, I go to the gym twice a week anyway for weight loss and core strength training.
I checked out the different bikes (not the spin class ones) and whilst a couple are lardy arsed things, most are Watt Bikes and suited me fine....