With so many affordable, compact exercise machines available these days, keeping fit should no longer be a problem. Finding the time to exercise is the biggest challenge faced by most people. A mini exercise bike, however, provides the perfect solution. It allows you to exercise even while watching television or reading a book. A mini exercise bike is designed to give you a good cardio workout but is small enough to be stored out of sight when not in use.

You can find many different models of mini exercise bikes in major retail stores, on the internet, and on television infomercials. They can be used on the floor to work out your lower body by pumping the pedals with your feet. You can also place a mini exercise bike on a table and pedal with your hands to improve upper-body strength.

These mini pedaling machines are very affordable, making them the primary choice of people who want to start an exercise program. There are three types to choose from: friction resistance bikes, motor-driven bikes, and magnetic resistance bikes.

Friction Resistance Bikes

Friction resistance bikes are the cheapest mini exercise bike option.  A tension belt provides the resistance and can be adjusted to suit your fitness level. If you are not ready to commit to a major purchase, a frictionless resistance bike is a good option.

Friction resistance bikes include the Stamina InStride Mini Exercise Bike,  Sunny MiniCycle, and the Brookstone Mini Exercise Bike.

Magnetic Resistance Bikes

Resistance is provided by a magnet and can be varied using a knob or pushbutton. Magnetic resistance bikes provide a more quiet, smooth and consistent operation. These mini exercise bikes cost from $100 to $200. The Magneciser Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike is priced at $119 and the MagneTrainer-ER Mini Magnetic Exercise Bike is at $129.

Motor Driven Bikes

Older adults and those undergoing physical rehabilitation will find a motor driven bike to be a safer choice. A DC motor drive system provides resistance. Motor driven bikes generally require less effort than the other types, making them easier on the joints. The user can dial up the desired resistance and time on the mini exercise bike. Motorized exercise bikes are generally more expensive. The Motorized Mini Bike has a low price tag while the industrial quality Monarch Mini Rehab Trainer costs much more.

Serious athletes may not be able to obtain a satisfying workout with mini exercise bikes. Friction resistance bikes tend to be jerky and can be unstable if the base is too narrow. The resistance also changes over time and you will have to readjust the setting. Magnetic resistance and motor-driven bikes operate more smoothly. Some models include a digital timer and LCD display showing distance, time, calories burned, etc.

Mini exercise bikes are reasonably priced and they are effective in strengthening the legs, thighs, hips, hamstrings, shoulders and arms. They provide a convenient and effective cardio workout to boost your metabolism and build stamina.