6 Best Under Desk Bikes for a Healthier You!

We've done the research to discover the finest under-desk bikes, and we've ranked them based on their benefits and drawbacks.
By
Daniel
Daniel
Writer
Daniel is among our most talented writers: based on the dull expert reports he's able to make up a comprehensive, reader-friendly article which anyone can benefit from. Also read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Tom
Tom
Tom
Expert Consultant
Initially being an engineering specialist, Tom has never stopped learning and acquiring other knowledge and skills. Now he’s involved in technical support for a well-known read more
Last updated: August 16, 2023
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Do you often find yourself working long hours at your desk with little to no time for a proper workout? If so, then an under-desk bike can be a solution for you. An under-desk bike is a small, pedal exerciser that you can use while sitting at your desk. This way, you can get in a workout even while you are working!

To choose the best out of the best under-desk bikes, don’t forget to take into account its pedal height, resistance settings, display monitor, and weight.

Quick Summary

  • Editor’s choice: VANGONA Pedal Exerciser
    "It is easy to assemble and use, and it has ten resistance settings. The multi-function LCD and the adjustable strap ensures a comfortable fit. Its sound level is below 20 decibels"
  • "It is precision-engineered for superior stability and whisper-silent operation. It’s also adjustable to fit desks of all heights and resistance settings for an increase calorie burn. The large 5-function LCD tracks speed and distance"
  • Best Affordable: AGM pedal exerciser
    "Its LCD display provides data on RPM, time, speed, distance and calories burned. The bike is also very stable, thanks to its non-slip floor pedals and adjustable foot straps. Its resistance knob allows you to tailor your workout to your needs"
  • "It offers a low impact workout that is gentle on the knees and joints. The resistance can be easily adjusted. The digital monitor tracks calories burned, strides, and distance. It is also equipped with a transportation handle and wireless design for easy portability"
  • Best for Home Workouts: Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser
    "It has 16 levels of resistance for leg workout and resistance rope for more effectiveness while training your arms. It provides ultra-quiet operation. It also has a digital LCD monitor, which displays time, distance, speed, and calories burned"
  • Best Lightweight: GOREDI Pedal Exerciser
    "It weighs only 5 pounds. It has a multi-functional digital LCD, which can track time, count, RPM, and calories burned. It also includes a tension knob. Adjustable four-hole foot straps can adapt to a variety of foot sizes"

Top 6 Under Desk Bikes Review 2024

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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6631 people in the past 30 days
9.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.7
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.4
9.8
1
Editor’s choice

VANGONA Pedal Exerciser

Features
  • Pedal Height: N/a
  • Resistance Settings: 10
  • Weight: 23.8 lbs.
  • Dimensions: 23 x 21 x 13 in

More features: one-year warranty, carpet

The VANGONA portable desk bike is our Editor’s Choice for the best under-desk bikes because it is easy to assemble and use, and it has ten resistance levels to give you a workout that is tailored to your fitness level. The multi-function LCD makes it easy to keep track of your progress, and the adjustable strap ensures a comfortable fit. This bike is also smooth and quiet, with its sound level below 20 decibels, meaning it is ideal for use even in an office setting. Finally, the compact design makes it easy to store away when not in use.

The VANGONA Pedal Exerciser compares favorably with all the under-desk bikes on this list because it balances portability and robustness pretty well. DeskCycle 2 comes closer in terms of stability and quiet operation, but it is not as portable as the VANGONA Pedal Exerciser, which is a couple of pounds lighter. If you need an under-desk bike you can bring with everywhere, the VANGONA Pedal Exerciser is the way to go.

    What are its best features?
  • Quick and easy to assemble
  • Adjustable strap
  • Non-slip carpet
  • Compact
  • Awesome customer service
    What could be improved?
  • Uneven tension
  • Not clear instructions
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7948 people in the past 30 days
9.7
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.3
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.3
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.2
9.7
Features
  • Pedal Height: 9-10 in
  • Resistance Settings: 8
  • Weight: 23 lbs.
  • Dimensions: 10.24 x 24.02 x 20.08 in

More features: 5-function LCD display, stay-flat pedals

Our Premium Pick for the best under-desk bike is the DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Bike. This bike is thoughtfully designed and precision-engineered for superior stability, whisper-silent operation, and durability. It’s also adjustable to fit desks of all heights, making it perfect for anyone who wants to get more active. It has a wide range of resistance settings that make it great for use as physical therapy equipment or for those who want to increase their calorie burn. The large 5-function LCD display tracks speed, distance, and more, and the included display stand makes it easy to read. The DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Bike is a great gift for anyone who wants to get more active and stay healthy.

The DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Bike is almost identical to the original DeskCycle. They have the exact same design and features. The only differences between them are size and price tags. DeskCycle 2 is smaller and pricier, but the original DeskCycle can work just as well under tables as low as 27 inches. You wouldn’t go wrong with either option and if the size is not that big an issue for you, then go ahead and save the extra bucks.

    What do we love it for?
  • Adjustable straps and pedals
  • Large display
  • Manual with clear instructions
  • Quite
    What were we disappointed with?
  • Pricey
  • Nor for low desks
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9759 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.5
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.5
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.1
9.6
3
Best Affordable

AGM pedal exerciser

Features
  • Pedal Height: 13 in
  • Resistance Settings: tension knob
  • Weight: 6.5 lbs.
  • Dimensions: 15.12 x 13.03 x 7.05 in

More features: LCD display

The AGM pedal exerciser is one of the most affordable under-desk bikes on the market, yet it still provides a great workout. It is easy to assemble and fold for storage, making it perfect for those who are short on space. The LCD display provides data on RPM, time, speed, distance, and calories burned, making it easy to track your progress. The bike is also very stable, thanks to its non-slip floor pedals and adjustable foot straps. Additionally, the adjustable resistance knob allows you to tailor your workout to your needs. This makes the AGM pedal exerciser an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced users alike.

If you don’t have the budget for a DeskCycle 2 or VANGONA Pedal Exerciser, the AGM pedal exerciser is your best bet. It is way cheaper and more portable as it comes in a foldable design. However, its build quality is not on par with either of our top 2 choices. Nonetheless, it is quite a steal and a worthy beginner option.

    Why did it make our list?
  • Comfortable non-slip floor bike pedals
  • Easy to assemble and fold for storage
  • Well-built
    What is not ideal about it?
  • No user manual
  • It can be slippery
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6464 people in the past 30 days
9.5
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.0
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.4
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.0
9.5
Features
  • Pedal Height: N/a
  • Resistance Settings: N/a
  • Weight: 29.4 lbs.
  • Dimensions: 24.8 x 17.3 x 11.1 in

More features: transportation handle

The Leasbar Under Desk Elliptical Machine is one of the best elliptical machines on the market as it offers a low impact workout that is gentle on the knees and joints. The resistance can be easily adjusted with a simple twist. The digital monitor tracks calories burned, strides, and distance. The compact size of this machine makes it perfect for under desk use. It is also equipped with a transportation handle for easy portability. The quick assembly makes this elliptical machine easy to set up and use. Free replacement or refund is available if there are any problems with the machine.

The Leasbar Under Desk Elliptical Machine is just as rugged as the famous VANGONA Pedal Exerciser and DeskCycle 2. However, it sets itself apart by especially offering a low-impact workout. Therefore, it is perfect for the elderly or people who have joint issues. It is heavier than all the bikes on this list but is still easily portable thanks to its transportation handle.

    What stands out?
  • Large pedals
  • Extremely quite
  • Quite light
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • The monitor comes upside down, but can be easily fixed
  • Can be used only while sitting
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4039 people in the past 30 days
9.4
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.9
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.9
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.1
9.4
5
Best for Home Workouts

Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser

Features
  • Pedal Height: N/a
  • Resistance Settings: 16
  • Weight: 18.5 lbs.
  • Dimensions: 23.6 x 21.8 x 12.6 in

More features: LCD Monitor, handle, resistance ropes

The Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser is the Best for Home Workouts because it has 16 levels of resistance, from light to tension. You can calibrate the resistance level to fit your diverse needs. It has a resistance rope for more effectiveness while training your arms. The magnetic wheel of the exercise bike provides ultra-quiet operation, making it easy to use in the office or at home without causing a disturbance. The Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser also has a digital LCD monitor, which displays time, distance, speed, and calories burned, helping you achieve an effective workout. The mini exercise bike is easy to carry and move around thanks to its handle design and lightweight build.

The Under Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser is the mother of all the bikes on this list in terms of build quality, portability and performance. Only the VANGONA portable desk bike could stack up against it with the 10 resistance levels, but it is still better in myriad ways. It has a resistance rope which none of the bikes on the list has, and more resistance levels for high effectiveness.

    Why is it special?
  • Non-slip foot pedal
  • Anti-slip bottom
  • Easy to assemble
  • Great tension
    What are the flaws?
  • Cheap materials
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4046 people in the past 30 days
9.3
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.1
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.8
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.9
9.3
6
Best Lightweight

GOREDI Pedal Exerciser

Features
  • Pedal Height: N/a
  • Resistance Settings: adjustable tension knob
  • Weight: 5 lbs.
  • Dimensions: 18.9 x 14.1 x 9.4 in

More features: 1-year warranty, insulation cover, extra-fixing strap, LCD

The GOREDI Pedal Exerciser is the Best Lightweight under-desk bike because it is easy to carry and store as it weighs only 5 pounds. It is also suitable for installing under a desk (exceeds 47 inches), beside a sofa or similar space, requiring little storage space. It is equipped with a large and easy-to-read multi-functional digital LCD, which can track time, count, RPM, and calories burned. It also includes a tension knob, so the floor pedal exerciser lets you customize the intensity level to your requirements. Adjustable four-hole foot straps can adapt to a variety of foot sizes to suit all your requirements. In addition, the GOREDI Pedal Exerciser comes with a 1-year warranty.

The GOREDI Pedal Exerciser and the AGM pedal exerciser have a lot in common. They have an identical design and almost similar weights. The GOREDI Pedal Exerciser is slightly lighter and comes with more enticing features like a 1-year warranty. Since both pedal exercisers fall within the same price range and have the same build quality, you wouldn’t go wrong with either option.

    Why are we impressed?
  • Non-slip triangular rubber pads
  • Adjustable four-hole foot straps
  • Lightweight
  • Can be folded
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • Not sturdy
  • Built cheaply
  • It has a strange smell

Things to Consider

An under-desk bike typically has two pedals that you place your feet on and start pedaling. There is usually a resistance knob that you can turn to make the pedaling more or less difficult. This device is what gives you resistance and makes it feel like you are biking outdoors.

Pedal Height

6 Best Under Desk Bikes for a Healthier You!
The average under-desk bike has a pedal height of around 9 to 11 inches.

The height of the pedals on an under-desk bike can be significant for some reasons.

  • If you are pedaling while working at your desk, you will want to make sure that the pedals are at a comfortable height for you.
  • The height of the pedals can affect how much resistance you feel while pedaling. If the pedals are too low, you may not feel enough resistance to get a good workout. On the other hand, if the pedals are too high, you may find that your legs get tired quickly from pedaling.

Resistance Settings

Most under-desk bikes and ellipticals come with adjustable resistance. This is a great feature to have because it allows you to scale up the intensity of your workouts, which is perfect if you’re looking to build strength. It’s also important if you want to make your workouts more challenging.

Generally speaking, most under-desk bike options will come with eight levels of resistance. This lets you move from a relaxing, gradual circulation-boosting workout to a more high-intensity workout. For most people, this should be more than enough.

If you want more freedom and control over your level of activity, there are some alternatives available with up to 20 distinct settings.

However, if you only need a minimal amount of exercise, to begin with, go for one of the less expensive versions that just has six settings.

Display Monitor

6 Best Under Desk Bikes for a Healthier You!
The display monitor of an under-desk bike is an important safety feature that allows you to see your progress and ensure that you are pedaling at a safe speed.

Every under-desk cycle and desk bike will have a digital display screen, which allows you to keep track of your progress as you pedal.

The display monitor and its functions are an important aspect of any under-desk bike.

At the bare minimum, it should tell you how fast and far you’ve gone; however, if you’re using your bike as part of a weight-loss plan, look for a monitor that also shows how many calories you’ve burned.

Another consideration when choosing an under-desk bike is the position of the display screen. A lot of under-desk bikes place their display screens on the frame, generally between the pedals. While this saves room, it also makes it more difficult to keep track of what you’re doing while pedaling.

If you just want to look at your workout statistics once you’ve finished pedaling, this isn’t an issue; however, if you wish to track your progress as you go, a more expensive model with a detachable display, that may be situated on your desk, may be worth considering.

Weight

An under-desk bike typically weighs between 10 and 15 pounds. The weight of the bike depends on the materials used in its construction and the size of the bike.

For elderly people or those with bad knees, an under-desk bike that is too light may be difficult to pedal.

If you are an elderly person and want to stay fit, you can check out our 8 best treadmills for seniors.

If you are looking for a bike to use at your desk only, then the weight of the bike should not be a major factor in your decision.

However, if you plan on taking the bike with you when you travel, then a lighter-weight bike may be a better choice.

The other option

Desk Bikes

6 Best Under Desk Bikes for a Healthier You!
A desk bike, as the name implies, is an ordinary exercise bike with a workstation attached.

The desk portion of the bike usually has a flat surface on which you can place a laptop, tablet, or other materials.

You can use the desk to work, study, or even eat while pedaling away on the bike.

Desk bikes are becoming increasingly popular as more and more people look for ways to stay active while working.

Benefits of Using an Under-Desk Bike

  1. Increased productivity – studies have shown that workers who use under-desk bikes are more productive than those who don’t.
  2. Improved focus and concentration – the gentle movement of pedaling an under-desk bike can help to improve focus and concentration.
  3. Stress relief – the low-impact exercise of pedaling an under-desk bike can help to reduce stress levels.
  4. Improved posture – using an under-desk bike can help to improve your posture by keeping your spine in alignment while you work.
  5. Weight loss – the exercise provided by pedaling an under-desk bike can help you to lose weight at home if that is a goal.

If you prefer working out at home, you might be interested in the 5 best home gyms under $300.

  1. Reduced risk of disease – the exercise provided by pedaling an under-desk bike can help to reduce the risk of developing certain diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes
  2. Time-saving –you can get your cardio while working so you don’t have to set aside extra time for a workout.

Moreover, if you are a working mother or father, and want to spend your time rationally, consider looking through the 12 best jogging strollers.

Tips before Biking

  • You need to make sure that the bike is properly adjusted for your height. If it’s too low, you won’t be able to get a good pedaling range of motion, and if it’s too high, you could end up putting strain on your knees.
  • Once you have the bike set up properly, it’s important to start off slowly and increase your speed gradually. If you try to go too fast too soon, you could end up getting dizzy or even falling off the bike.
  • Make sure to warm up before you start pedaling and cool down afterward. This will help you avoid injuries and make sure that you get the most out of your workout.

FAQ

How do under-desk bikes help you stay fit?

An under-desk bike helps you stay fit by providing a low impact, cardio workout while sitting at your desk. By pedaling an under-desk bike, you can increase your heart rate and burn calories while remaining seated and focused on your work.

Moreover, people with knee issues can use an under-desk bike as it takes very little pressure off of the joints.

Does an under-desk bike give as good a workout as a stationary bike?

The answer to this question depends on the person. Some people find that an under-desk bike gives them a more intense workout, while others find that a stationary bike is more effective. It comes down to personal preference and what type of workout you’re looking for.

How often should you use an under-desk bike to see optimal results?

The general rule of thumb is to use an under-desk bike for at least 30 minutes per day, 5 times a week. However, if you are starting out, you may want to start with shorter sessions and gradually work your way up to the recommended time. Additionally, it is important to consult your doctor before starting any new exercise regimen.

Our verdict

The AGM pedal exerciser is an affordable yet effective under-desk bike. It is easy to assemble and use, with lots of features that make it perfect for both beginners and experienced users. The bike is also very stable and has adjustable resistance, making it perfect for tailoring your workout to your needs.

The DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Bike is a great bike for a quality under-desk bike. It’s thoughtfully designed and precision-engineered for superior stability and whisper-silent operation. It’s also adjustable to fit desks of all heights. The wide range of resistance settings makes it great for physical therapy equipment.

The VANGONA portable desk bike is one of the best under-desk bikes. It has ten resistance levels to give you a workout that is tailored to your fitness level, and the multi-function LCD makes it easy to keep track of your progress. Its sound level is below 20 decibels.

References

1.
Sitting risks: How harmful is too much sitting? - Mayo Clinic
When you sit, you use less energy than you do when you stand or move. Research has linked sitting for long periods of time with a number of health concerns.
2.
Work, pedal, and be healthy | Iowa Now
By providing workers with a portable pedaling device, Lucas Carr, an assistant professor in the Department of Health and Human Physiology and member of the Obesity Research and Education Initiative at the UI, discovered people who were once sitting all day were now moving at work without even getting up.
9,8
Total Score
VANGONA Pedal Exerciser - Editor’s choice
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