What's the difference between a recumbent bike and a stationary bike?

renae161
renae161 Posts: 334 Member
edited November 13 in Fitness and Exercise
What's the difference between a recumbent bike and a regular stationary bike? I've been on a recumbent bike before, but never a regular stationary bike. I personally don't see a difference in the two.

Replies

  • cmriverside
    cmriverside Posts: 34,419 Member
    A recumbent bike has the seat set lower and behind the pedals, so you are leaning back. A regular stationary bike has the pedals under the seat and you either sit up or lean forward.
  • cwolfman13
    cwolfman13 Posts: 41,865 Member
    Recumbent bike..

    pDSP1-17533490v750.jpg

    Stationary bike...

    stationary-bike-stand-796x1024.jpg

    The difference is where your feet go...
  • renae161
    renae161 Posts: 334 Member
    I feel like a stationary bike might cause back problems since you have to lean forward. I'm just trying to figure out which one would be best to invest in.
  • cmriverside
    cmriverside Posts: 34,419 Member
    If it's stationary (i.e., not going outside/fixed for indoor exercise) I would definitely get a recumbent, for that exact reason.

    Recumbent street bikes have a different center of gravity so they are a little trickier to ride, but an indoor one you don't have that worry.
  • cwolfman13
    cwolfman13 Posts: 41,865 Member
    edited October 2016
    renae161 wrote: »
    I feel like a stationary bike might cause back problems since you have to lean forward. I'm just trying to figure out which one would be best to invest in.

    Not if your core is engaged...but if that's your worry then go with the recumbent.
  • renae161
    renae161 Posts: 334 Member
    Ok thank you so much for your guys input!
  • rileyes
    rileyes Posts: 1,406 Member
    Why are you considering either? I have a stationary bike that is never used and is going on Craigslist. It feels too passive for me. I'd rather be outside on a bike.

    Things I might consider before buying:
    Are you choosing a special set-up to help you train for cycling outside?
    Do you have medical reasons for choosing a stationary/recumbent bike?
  • renae161
    renae161 Posts: 334 Member
    rileyes wrote: »
    Why are you considering either? I have a stationary bike that is never used and is going on Craigslist. It feels too passive for me. I'd rather be outside on a bike.

    Things I might consider before buying:
    Are you choosing a special set-up to help you train for cycling outside?
    Do you have medical reasons for choosing a stationary/recumbent bike?

    I had a knee injury a while ago, so I got rid of my mountain bike as it was too much stress on my knee. And, having a stationary bike will be easier for me as I won't have to worry about bumpy roads or applying too much pressure on my knee from having to rush to get pass traffic, but still being able to get to "bike" and strengthen those muscles some more so theyre not so tight. I have a pt and I have some exercises I do that has strengthen my knee some, but I still miss riding my mountain bike and would like to get a stationed bike.
  • Kate_In
    Kate_In Posts: 1 Member
    I want to share my experience with you... earlier I used to use only recumbent bike in gym, because I was really afraid of stationary bike. This fear was from my childhood, I know this. but not so long ago my bro persuaded me to sit on the urban bike! oh, it's really great! I feel safe and stable when I ride it! I recently bought a bike and do not go to the gym, only to ride outdoors every evening. When I had choosed a bike, I came across a useful article about urban bicycles. here it is http://bestadviser.net/urban-bikes/8-top-city-bikes-for-men-and-women/. I stopped my eye on C7 Dutch Style Step-Thru 7-Speed City Bike thanks to feedbacks. If you want to by bike for the city like me I think it will help you to choose.
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