There are quiet exercise bikes for apartment use in the Australian market. Some features of a quiet exercise bike for an apartment include having magnetic resistance, a belt drive and a noise level of 75 dB or less during operation.
If you already own a stationary bike, there are ways to keep using it without disturbing your neighbours. Keep reading to know more. Plus, check out my list of suggested quiet indoor bike models.
What Are the Sources of Noise in an Exercise Bike?
There are two ways an indoor exercise bike can create noise.
Construction and Design of the Exercise Bike
One is from bike construction and design. The other is the impact sounds it makes while you are cycling. The flywheel, belt drive and pedals are the primary moving parts of an exercise bike that generate noise.
The sound from these components travels through airflow. Examples are whirring pedals, a spinning flywheel or a rattling chain belt. The quality and material used to make them determine how noisy they will be.
Impact Noises from the Exercise Bike
On the other hand, impact noises are vibrations generated as the bike makes contact with a surface. For example, cycling can make the bike wobble and hit the floor. Compared with airborne sounds, the impact type is more manageable as there are ways to fix it.
Airborne noise is also avoidable if you study your bike specs well.
What are the Features of a Quiet Exercise Bike?
Quiet exercise bikes for apartments are not hard to find if you know the right features to consider. Below are some of them.
1. Has magnetic resistance.
Exercise bike resistance comes from the flywheel. This rotating part works with the belt drive and pedals, allowing you to perform the cycling motion.
There are two common ways to adjust the resistance, depending on your bike type.
One is through the use of magnetic force. The other is through airflow. If you are after quiet exercise bikes for apartments, go for magnetic types. These bikes let you move the magnets close or away from the flywheel to adjust the drag or tension.
Controlling the magnetic resistance can either be mechanical or electrical. The best thing about this mechanism is it is virtually noise-free. Moreover, it provides precise resistance settings.
On the other hand, assault or air bikes have a large fan that spins as you pedal. Their resistance level is unlimited and dependent on your cycling speed. Air resistance bikes are excellent for intense workouts and less expensive than most magnetic bike models. But they are also the noisiest.
2. Has a belt drive.
The drive system of an exercise bike connects the flywheel and pedals, allowing you to cycle and move forward. This part can be a chain or belt drive. Chain-drive bikes are more durable and provide a more authentic outdoor biking feel.
However, rotating chains can produce a lot of noise. They also need regular lubrication.
So, if you prefer quiet exercise bikes for apartment use, choose a belt-driven one. It may not be as heavy-duty as chains, but it guarantees smooth and quiet cycling – perfect for shared living spaces.
Nowadays, chain-drive bikes are not as popular but do check the drive system when buying second-hand models. You might want to read my chain vs belt drive article to learn more.
3. Noise level is 75 dB or less.
Indoor bikes naturally produce sounds as they have moving parts. Some models are louder than others. Manufacturers indicate this in decibels.
The noise that stationary bikes make is usually between 55 dB and 75 dB. This level can be as loud as the low hum of a refrigerator to the whirring sound of a washing machine.
Some units can go as high as 90 dB, which is similar to a revving motorcycle engine. So, when selecting a stationary bike, look for bike models 75 dB or less.
You can search for this on the brand website, product manual or packaging.
What Are Some Quiet Exercise Bike Models for Apartments?
Below is a list of some quiet bike models to help you find the best fitness machine for your small space.
You can also check my reviews of these bikes to learn more about their specs.
| Model | Bike Type | What Makes It Apartment-Friendly |
| Lifespan Fitness Exer-80 Bike | Upright | Compact and affordable with a magnetic flywheel and smooth belt drive system |
| BH Fitness SB3 Magnetic Spin Bike | Spin | Compact mid-priced bike with magnetic brake and Poly-V belt drive system |
| NordicTrack S22i Bike | Spin | Compact with silent magnetic resistance and incline/decline drive system |
How Do I Keep My Exercise Bike Quiet?
If you already have a bike and want to reduce the noise it makes, here are some solutions you can do:
- Clean and maintain it regularly. Cleaning and lubricating your bike lessen friction and prevent dust from building up. In turn, this helps in noise reduction. Also, follow a regular maintenance schedule and allocate time for retightening loose screws.
- Put some padding under it. Sometimes, uneven floors can make your bike wobble and create noise. Cushioning it with a proper bike mat should make it stable and quiet. A floor mat also absorbs vibrations during exercise and keeps your workout area clean.
Conclusion
Stationary bikes are excellent cardio machines that are easy to use, effective and space-saving. Also, you don’t have to spend more to get a good quality model.
For some, getting a low-noise bike is a must. With it, you can exercise any time without disturbing your neighbours’ next door.
Now that you know what features to look at, it won’t be hard to find a quiet exercise bike for your apartment space.
Related Questions
1. Should I use and store my exercise bike outside to reduce noise?
Exercise bikes are best used and stored indoors. These machines have metal and electronic parts that could deteriorate fast when exposed to weather changes, moisture, dust and other outdoor elements. You can turn your basement or a vacant room on the ground floor into a permanent workout area to keep the noise down. Alternatively, adjust your indoor cycling schedule or use a magnetic bike to avoid disrupting others.
2. What is the best stationary bike resistance level?
The best bike resistance level depends on your fitness capacity and preferred cycling exercise. For instance, low resistance simulates flat-road cycling, which is ideal for beginners and people with knee issues. Medium resistance is excellent for targeting the legs and glutes. Athletes who use their legs for their sport will benefit more from high-resistance settings.
3. Are smart or interactive bikes better than regular ones?
Comparing smart bikes with regular ones, smart bikes, like these Peloton bike alternatives, are the high-tech version of regular spin bikes. They are Bluetooth-ready, work with compatible apps and have automated functions. However, these interactive bikes are also more expensive. Standard exercise bikes are just as good. And they make excellent substitutes if you have a limited budget or gym space.
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