Are you interested in purchasing workout equipment and already have an eye on cycling as your main form exercise? If so, you might have already heard of the exercise bike, you may have also heard about bike trainers as well.

As a beginner in this field, you might get confused by this two exercise machines that may look similar but can be quite different from each other in terms application and benefits.

To help you get a good grasp about these two popular workout equipments we will discuss the differences between the two and the strengths and weaknesses each present.

Compare the Advantages and Disadvantages of Exercise Bike And Bike Trainer

Bike Trainer Advantages

Affordability – One of the biggest draws of a bike trainer is its low cost. You can purchase secondhand equipment at around $100 while brand new ones are available at $200 to $600 tops. You can also find modern bike trainers which uses computerized controls a little over $1,000. This makes it ideal for those looking to save some cash.

Comfort – As you will be using your own bicycle you can expect the experience of using a trainer to be quite comfortable. Your bike will already be adjusted to fit your seat height, arm length and stem length, Fact of the matter is nothing can compare to the comfort of riding your own bike.

Lightweight and Compact – Compared to an indoor bicycle, a bike trainer is a far more space saving option. You can easily fold it and throw it in the back of your van, in your closet or under your bed and can be just as easily set up.

Bike Trainer Disadvantages

Potential Damage to your Bike – These things will clamp down hard on your bike and the chances of it actually chipping the paint on bike’s frame are quite high. There is also the risk of the trainer breaking your quick release levers.

Wear and Tear – Expect your rear wheels to truly take a pounding whenever you are using a bike trainer. In this regard, we suggest you replace the rear wheel with a cheap one whenever you are going to attach the bike trainer.

Exercise bike Advantages

Higher Resistance during Workouts – If you truly need exercise equipment that offers a great workout experience then this indoor bicycle will give you that in spades. While the bike trainer does a relatively good job in helping you in the fitness department, it lacks the resistance that can really put your body to work. If what you need is optimum results in a short amount of time then the exercise bike is your go to equipment.

More Calories Burned – You can expect to burn off at least 600 to 800 calories per one hour workout sessions on a exercise bike. That is significantly more than what you can lose by using a bike trainer.

Access to Spin Classes – This is one of the most popular workout machines today and as such you will find that almost all the gyms today have incorporated this machine. You can enroll on special spin classes that will teach you the best way to use this machine or simply watch videos online if you plan on working out in your home.

Exercise bike Disadvantages

Some Requires Power – Some stationary bikes will require it to be plugged in. These are the ones with the digital readouts and controls. In the instance that there is a blackout then you won’t be able to use this machine to its full potential.

It is Easier to Cheat – Since you have full control of the level of resistance you might get tempted to lowering it which practically makes you session all but fruitless in terms of losing weight.

Final Thoughts

Those are the biggest differences between the two. It will all depend on what you hope to gain.

Are you looking for cost effective way to train your body for a marathon? Take the trainer bike.

If you are looking for an all around machine that will really give your body a great workout then the exercise bike is your go to machine.

Author Bio – Lily Tran, admin of LISSCARDIO.COM! WE will help you know What is LISS and HIIT Cardio from Benefits to Best Workout. I have over 7 years experience in affiliate marketing. In addition, I am very passionate about forex trading, fitness & wellness, sports.