Stationary Bikes

[Damon_3388]

Stationary Bikes

I suppose this would be the appropriate forum to discuss this.

I'm wanting to get a stationary bike soon, to not only lose some body fat but also improve general fitness. I'd buy a regular bike, but I don't have enough money and the roads in my area are mainly narrow, not well-lit and high-speed (80kph+), so riding a bike in the spare time I have (which is mainly at night) might be a bit dangerous, especially as I'm not really an experienced rider. As well as that, I prefer the convenience of a stationary bike at home, especially as the weather (specifically rain-wise) is a bit iffy this time of year.

Anyway, I'm not looking to spend thousands, but I'd like something that is good quality and has a few of the handy electronic measurement features (heart rate, distance, speed etc.) so that I can put in some quality training and get results, and would be comfortable to use for a taller person (I'm 194cm). If anyone can give advice as to good-quality stationary bikes, as well as useful fitness programs that utilise stationary bikes, I'd be greatly appreciative.

 

[Hot Spenny]

I was looking for bikes a little while ago, came across this one that I thought was pretty reasonable. It is $409 on this site but I found that it was quite a bit more at other sites. Has built in programs and other nifty stuff. Could be good:

Bike!

 

[Pugnosis]

The most important thing is to get something that is sturdy - especially if you want to do interval type training. I used to have a really cheap one bought from big w and it split down the bottom of it. I would suggest getting some sort of spin bike with a heavy flywheel - the heavier the better. Unfortunately these can cost a bit. The best one I found online was http://goeasyonline.cart.net.au/details/2201758.html
Similar ones at Workout world were $1500
Also best training program would be Interval. Start off 5-10 warmup then do 1 minute hard sitting or standing at a high gear, 1 minute recovery at a lower gear on and off and build this up as you do it easier.

 

[hamG]

I bought a Profile C3P a little while ago after developing plantar fasciitis, just wandered into a shop a tried a few. It wasn't expensive, is quiet and is exactly what I wanted. It has programs and features and crap but I don't use them, just need speed, distance, time & magnetic resistance.