Fitness Tips

Best Elliptical Bikes – Top Bang For Buck Outdoor Stand Up Bikes

In this article, I’m going to go over what I consider to be the best elliptical bikes that you can find on the market right now.

Before I delve into the list itself, I’ll briefly explain the different types of elliptical bikes.

Attached to the list, you’ll also find an elliptical bikes’ buying guide and some of the exercises and benefits of having one.

The reason why I know a lot about this topic is the fact that I’ve spent hours upon hours of research before I bought the ElliptiGO Arc 8.

I went through such lengths to buy a bike simply because I wanted to make sure that I got the most bang for my buck, a quality bike (and not just the first one I came upon on the market) I could get my hands on. 

On a side note, although I own the number one pick on my list, the ElliptiGO Arc 8, I’ve tested out two other bikes, #2 and #4.

During my research, I simply went with the ElliptiGO not because it’s the absolute best but simply because it delivers a great experience for what you’re paying.


What Is an Elliptical Bike?

What Is an Elliptical Bike

Elliptical bikes combine the freedom of going for a ride outside with the low-impact exercises of a cardio machine.

Additionally, if you happen to be a cyclist who suffers from joint pain or aches due to poor posture, and don't have a recumbent bike, then the elliptical bike is for you.


Why Are Elliptical Bikes Popular?

Why Are Elliptical Bikes Popular among riders

No one can deny how good a cycling workout can be, whether you're doing it outdoors on a hyper bike, or indoors on one of those compact exercise bikes.

However, that doesn’t change the fact that you’ll spend a lot of time in a fixated, seated position, which is never good for your body or fitness goals. 

Your shoulders start to slouch forward, and your hip flexors get tight and weak, leading to poor posture.

Just like your average apartment elliptical, this type of full-body workout machines will eliminate these issues by forcing you to maintain a vertical posture to achieve the full stride length.

That's one of the major differences there is between stationary bikes and elliptical ones.

In other words, your glutes and hip complex will be free to do what they do best, generate force, and keep you standing straight instead of being compressed.

Many people are starting to see the benefits of keeping a straight and upright posture, thanks to the elliptical bikes minimizing the need for sitting.

Additionally, elliptical trainers are usually more fun to use in comparison to other cardio fat-burning machines, which is the reason why a number of people are using these bikes instead of stationary bikes or treadmills.

Related Reading; The Best Shoes For The Stairmaster – Most Comfortable Sneaker Options


Our Top Pick

ElliptiGO Arc 8 Compact Stride Outdoor Elliptical Bike

Best Bang for Your Buck

The ElliptiGO Arc 8 Compact Stride Outdoor Elliptical Bike is the best bang for buck option when looking for an outdoor elliptical bike

Specs

  • Highly Rated & Reviewed, Read Customer Reviews Here
  • Most Popular Option
  • Wheelbase: 52.6 inches
  • Total Length:72 inches
  • Weight: 37 pounds
  • Type:Two wheels
  • Gears: 8

Types of Elliptical Bikes

Two Wheels

First type of outdoor Elliptical bikes is a Two Wheels bike

Similar to a regular bike, these bikes function on two legs. While they’re not as stable as the other ellipticals that come with three wheels, they tend to be more lightweight and faster. 

The best example of a two-wheeled bike is the ElliptiGO - with the ElliptiGo 8c being my favorite. 


Three Wheels

Second type of outdoor Elliptical bikes is a Three Wheels bike

This kind of elliptical bikes exists to help facilitate full body workout and weight loss

They usually have two front wheels and one back wheel. Additionally, you get two-foot bases that are mounted on both sides of the bike, which make up the drive assembly, whether chained or chainless. 

A good example of a three-wheeled bike is the StreetStrider model.

You can say ElliptiGO and StreetStrider are pretty much the kings of two-wheeled and three-wheeled elliptical bikes respectively.


Best Elliptical Bikes

So, what are some of the best elliptiical bikes on the marlket; here is a glimpse at some of the best picks

As you would expect, some elliptical bikes are sure to outperform others, which is pretty much the case with any other workout equipment. Here are several of our best performing ones.


1. ElliptiGO Arc 8 Compact Stride Outdoor Elliptical Bike – Best Bang for Your Buck

Specs

  • Wheelbase: 52.6 inches
  • Total Length:72 inches
  • Weight: 37 pounds
  • Type:Two wheels
  • Gears: 8

ElliptiGO Arc 8 Compact Stride Outdoor Elliptical Bike Review

The main reason why this particular elliptical bike made it to my list and why I’ve been using it for a while now is its price.

It’s one of the best and most affordable options that you can find in the market right now. However, such a price tag obviously means that some of the bike’s features are watered down a bit.

You won’t find the same power or feel that Arc 8’s bigger sister, the 8C, offers. But the Arc 8 still stands strong on its own feet due to its range and utility.

I’ve always been a big ElliptiGO fan, way before I bought this bike or even tried it.

Most of my friends had no idea what these bikes were or how they functioned. 

And for that, I wanted a good one that I could introduce to beginners, and Arc 8 was perfect. If you are looking for an exercise bike for beginners we have an article about the best exercise bikes for beginners here.

The bike weighs around 37 pounds, and it’s pedaling mechanism is unique in the way that it’s designed to be more familiar and easier to use than other elliptical bikes.

The overall motion of this bike feels more circular instead of a flat oval. It’s similar to bicycling or running, further adding to its appeal to beginners.

The workout that you’ll get from this bike is as intense as any other elliptical bike. The design that these bikes have leads to more calories burned as compared to cycling or running.

This is mainly due to the fact that your legs will be met with more resistance than usual.

All in all, this makes cardio workouts with the bike a great initiative if you wish to improve both your body’s strength and endurance.

This bike also shines if you’re in for an aerobic workout mainly because it’s not as tough to use as some of the other elliptical bikes.

This ease of use can be attributed to the company’s choice of making this bike more accessible for beginners. In other words, if you’re somewhat of an “advanced” elliptical bike user, then I recommend that you go with another model over this one.

The thing that impresses me the most about Arc 8 is its smart design. It manages to tackle muscle groups that are usually inaccessible using a typical elliptical bike.

These muscles are the smaller ones that can be found in your legs, back, and forearms. Moreover, any elliptical bike will properly target your core, and Arc 8 is no different. As a result, you’ll manage to get a stronger, more fit core if you regularly use this bike.

From experience, I’ve also realized that this bike is very comfortable on the neck. The feature of the reclined seat puts a lot of stress off your rear, and it properly supports your lower back.

This is further helped by how light the foot pedals are.

Numerous riders end up getting seats and back pain when using regular bicycles. However, you won’t have to worry about that with this bike since it offers the simplest, lightest, most comfortable, and affordable experience out there.

2. ElliptiGO 11R Elliptical Bike – Most Comfortable Option

Specs

  • Wheelbase:54 inches
  • Total Length:75 inches
  • Weight:39.4 pounds
  • Type:Two wheels
  • Gears: 11

ElliptiGO 11R Elliptical Bike Review

If you’re looking for the most high-end elliptical bike out there, then the ElliptiGO 11R is for you. Being a high-end bike subsequently means that you’re going to pay more for it.

This high price tag might be a turn off for a lot of people.

However, rest assured as the advanced features and high-quality experience that you’ll get your hands on with this bike totally justify the price.

The number 11 in the bike’s name refers to the fact that it has 11 gears, which is higher than the majority of other elliptical bikes.

This feature allows you to ride on numerous different surfaces, both downhill and uphill. It’ll also help you to better manage and moderate your workout. The gears are made by non-other than the legendary Shimano, one of the best bicycle parts makers in the market.

The design of the bike delivers a very comfortable experience. This makes it a great option for older riders or younger ones who are having some pain problems.

It’s also a great alternative for experienced runners, mainly because running places a lot of stress on your joints over time.

The bike’s pedaling system delivers the lightest pedaling experience possible, further adding to the whole comfort aesthetic that ElliptiGO is going for with this bike.

You can ride this bike while sitting down or standing, or both if you feel like it.

Another great thing that distinguishes this bike from the other bikes in the market is how portable and storable it is.

For one, it comes with a folding steering column and handlebars, which makes this compact elliptical bike even smaller and pretty portable.

As a result, you can easily store it in the corner of your house or even the trunk of your car. I can’t stress enough how important it is to have a bike that’s portable and storable, especially if it’s an elliptical trainer.

This is mainly due to the fact that most elliptical bikes have unconventional designs and frames, making it difficult to park them in certain places or to bring them inside your house.

However, this won’t be a problem if they’re foldable.

Last but not least, this bike is perfect for people who are into doing all kinds of sports such as swimming, running, biking, track, and field, etc. It manages to give even the best athletes out there a tough challenge.

The bike uses just the right amount of aerodynamic resistance to work a number of your muscles, including your core, without hurting any of your joints.

As I’ve said earlier, I’ve personally used this bike for a while, and I highly recommend it for anyone who wishes to get stronger and healthier. It’s just an impressive piece of machinery, a perfect combination of design and engineering.

Honestly, the only reason it didn’t make it as my number one pick is that price tag, but still, you get what you paid for. It’s just not for me, that’s all.

3. ElliptiGO MSUB – Best Stand-Up Elliptical Bike

Specs

  • Wheelbase:47.2inches
  • Total Length:74.8inches
  • Weight:34.6pounds
  • Type:Two wheels
  • Gears: 10

ElliptiGO MSUB Review

If you’re an adventurous person who seeks to make their bike riding workout a memorable experience each time, then the ElliptiGO MSUB is for you.

The bike is made in a way that allows it to smoothly cruise over any terrain: from flatlands to steep hills and suburbs.

This is mainly due to its 28 inches tires, which will keep it stable on any surface. The low wheel platform and high bottom bracket position further help with the stabilization by giving the bike a significant center of gravity.

The bike also comes with highly responsive brakes, which function at the top level each time to help keep you out of any unwarranted trouble.

Additionally, you get cushioning foot pedals, which help to make the biking process smoother and easier. You also won’t find a conventional bike seat in the MSUB, which is great news since conventional ones usually cause a lot of discomfort.

The ElliptiGO is made from highly-durable aluminum and weighs around 35 lb making it suitable for all ages and body sizes.

It’s also a great piece of equipment if you’re looking to enhance your cardiovascular fitness.

4. ElliptiGO SUB Outdoor Stand Up Bike – Best Affordable Option

Specs

  • Wheelbase:46.6inches
  • Total Length:66inches
  • Weight:28.8pounds
  • Type:Two wheels
  • Gears: 8

ElliptiGO SUB Outdoor Stand Up Bike Review

The ElliptiGO SUB is a great choice for anyone who’s looking to burn calories and nail full body workout in the process. The bike can handle all kinds of terrain without any issue, delivering a comfortable ride.

This model has gained a lot of popularity amongst people who want to work their bodies hard, but without putting too much stress and pressure on their joints.

The ElliptiGO SUB is an excellent example of a bike that can provide an amazing, low impact exercise which won’t leave you with any neck or back pain.

Last but not least, this is a pretty lightweight and compact cardio machine, yet it packs a punch. This means that you can get the most out of it while also being able to easily move it around and store it.

5. StreetStrider 7i – Best Three-Wheeled Elliptical Bike

Specs

  • Wheelbase:51inches
  • Total Length:68.5inches
  • Weight:54 pounds
  • Type:Three wheels
  • Gears: 7

StreetStrider 7i Review

The first and most impressive thing about this bike is the fact that you can use it for climbing, running, and cruising.

If you wish to perform a full-body exercise, simply push then pull the Strider pulls, an excellent lean-to-steer system that focuses on exercising the muscles of the abdomen, hip, and obliques.

You won’t find such a feature in most other models, let alone in conventional stationary fitness equipment.

The bike’s frame is a sturdy, steel-based one that can support up to 250 pounds of user weight. It also comes equipped with Shimano variable speed gear, which gives you total control if you traverse over steep, flat, and high hills.

Moreover, the StreetStrider 7i rocks numerous front and rear brakes to ensure your safety during the rides, regardless of which terrain it’s on. In the case of bad weather, this bike’s dimensions allow for use indoors.

One thing that you have to keep in mind is that all these features come with a somewhat high price tag on this bike.

So, if you’re someone who’s currently on a tight budget or is simply not looking to spend a hefty amount of money on a bike, then the StreetStrider 7i isn’t for you.

However, if you do decide to get one, it’s important to know that you can pay a bit extra to have it delivered to you fully assembled.

6.  ElliptiGO 8C Long Stride Outdoor Elliptical Bike

Specs

  • Wheelbase:54inches
  • Total Length:75inches
  • Weight:44 pounds
  • Type:Two wheels
  • Gears: 8

ElliptiGO 8C Long Stride Outdoor Elliptical Bike Review

This elliptical bike came into life 13 years ago when its creator took his daughter for a jog and filmed her in the process. The footage inspired him to conceptualize what later became known as ElliptiGO 8C.

Cool lore aside, the ElliptiGO 8C is a great bike, whether you’re in for a casual riding experience or a competitive one with great workout experience.

Exercising on this bike can help improve your circulatory system and overall body state.

It comes equipped with an 8-speed gear that can withstand any kind of terrain you throw at it. On smooth terrain, for example, this bike can go as fast as 40 kph.

And If you have a thing for mountain biking, then rest assured as this bike can easily cruise through a 30% graded steeped route.

It’s good to the point where it can compete with actual road bikes when it comes to riding uphill.

The bike only weighs around 19 kilograms, allowing you to easily lift it and move it around when necessary. This is all thanks to the mostly aluminum construction, which is very durable and stable, in addition to being lightweight.

Additionally, this model was tested by people ranging from 4’10” to 6’9”, and none of them complained about any lack of comfort or anything of the sorts.


Top Elliptical Bike Brands

ElliptiGO

ElliptiGO is well-known for it's great outdoor elliptical bikes

ElliptiGO is arguably the most popular brand of outdoor elliptical bicycles, for a good reason. It was founded in 2008 by Bryan Pate, an ex-Marine who studied at Stanford, and Brent Teal, a brilliant mechanical engineer.

The main reason why they teamed up was to come up with a cardio option that wouldn’t cause any overuse injuries.

Most ElliptiGO bikes are pretty stable and easy to use. The amount of balance they require is similar to that of a traditional bicycle. The braking systems consist of hand levers connected to rim brakes on the front and rear wheels.

ElliptiGO’s line of bikes can be divided into two kinds:

  • Stand Up Bikes (SUB): This type utilizes a cycling motion and delivers an efficient and comfortable workout.
  • Long Stride length Bikes: Just like 20" ellipticals and 22" ellipticals, this type of bikes offers an elliptical motion that resembles running, and it delivers the ultimate experience comfort and performance-wise. If you're short like I am and on the hunt for an elliptical, go for the 18" elliptical.

StreetStrider

StreetStrider is well-known brand that make great outdoor elliptical bikes

Most StreetStrider bikes come with a T-shaped lower frame and balance on three wheels, two in the front and one at the rear. In practice, these bikes deliver the combined benefits of cycling, jogging, and skiing without any physical stress on your body, most importantly, your joints.

StreetStrider bikes also come with a leaning mechanism for smooth steering as well as numerous brakes and a multiple gears system.

The brand currently has four models in its line-up, the StreetStrider 3i, the StreetStrider 7i, StreetStrider 8s, and StreetStrider 11s, one of which I’ve added to the list.

The 8s and 11s come with more advanced features such as an aluminum alloy frame, adjustable front-wheel caster, and more gears.

You can easily tell the latter by the number in the model name.

The 8s and 11s come with more advanced features such as an aluminum alloy frame, adjustable front-wheel caster, and more gears. You can easily tell the latter by the number in the model name.


ElliptiGO vs. StreetStrider

ElliptiGO vs. StreetStrider, which is better

Which Brand Has Better Overall Reviews?

ElliptiGO gets the privilege of saying they were the first to the market, which technically makes them “the pioneers” of elliptical bikes.

ElliptiGO customer review

Titles aside, the company is known for producing high-performance bikes that suit the needs of both casual fitness enthusiasts and professional cyclists.

This is probably the reason why ElliptiGO bikes have a larger number of positive reviews than StreetStrider’s.

Don’t get me wrong, though. I’m not saying that StreetStrider is bad. A simple glance and the numerous reviews of their official website will tell you otherwise, as is the case with other reviews on Amazon.

StreetStrider customer review

There is this one review made by a user on PavementRunner that picked my attention simply because I kind of agree with what he said. He gave the bikes an overwhelmingly positive review.

However, he listed a few “cons” after using one of StreetStrider’s models:

  • StreetStrider bikes require a little more time than usual to get used to.
  • The bike is both large and heavy, making transport and storage difficult.
  • The design draws a lot of attention, which might be a problem for some in public.

How Do Their Bikes Differ in Terms of the Design?

The StreetStrider’s design can be described as a portable, rolling elliptical machine. The motion of your feet and arms when using StreetStrider bikes is similar to that of an elliptical trainer found in a gym.

Workout-wise, this motion is more effective than that of the ElliptiGO models since it manages to cover more of your body muscles, giving you an almost perfectly full body workout.

It doesn't provide a 100% full-body workout like other machines but with this one you can go outside and work most of your body.

Related Reading; Elliptigo Sub Review – The Most Fun Outdoor Stand Up Bike

How StreetStrider is different from ElliptiGO when it comes to design

The design of the ElliptiGO bikes is slightly different, though.

For one, the handlebars are fixated. In other words, your arms won’t move around like they do with the StreetStrider models. 

Your feet are an exception,though, since they won’t move in a circular motion like standard bikes but in an elliptical one instead.

Moreover, ElliptiGO models implement a standing posture instead of the standard, sitting one. You also get less upper body workout with these bikes.

However, this doesn’t change the fact that they are high-performance, quality machines that offer thrilling, fulfilling rides.

How the ElliptiGO differs from StreetStrider when it comes to design

Which Brand Offers the Best Warranty?

Here’s what each company has to offer when it comes to the warranty:

StreetStrider
StreetStrider warranty
  • Frame: 3 years
  • Components: 1 to 2 years, depending on the manufacturer
ElliptiGO
ElliptiGO warranty
  • Frame: 5 years
    • Components: 2 years on the fork, drive arms, crank arms, and steering column and one year for the rest

    As you can see, ElliptiGO is superior in this aspect since its frames are covered for five years instead of three.

    We have a thorough in-depth comparison between StreetStrider and ElliptiGO here.


Elliptical Bikes – A Buyer’s Guide

Here are a few points that you’ll need to consider before picking an elliptical bike:

Price

Pricing is definitely important to consider when shopping for an outdoor elliptical bike as they can get really expensive

First off, get ready to spend a little extra money on these bikes. As for a price range, an elliptical bike could cost anything from $500 up to $4000.

The price is based on a lot of factors, who is making it, the features, the quality, and when you buy it even.


Assembly

How to assemble the Elliptical bike is something to consider when buying Elliptical Bikes

More often than not, you’d find yourself having to assemble the elliptical bike by yourself. Some people might get spooked by how heavy a boxed bike can feel.

However, this isn’t really an issue since heavyweight usually equals sturdiness and durability.

If you have the slightest idea about what you’re doing, assembling the bike should take you more than an hour at most.

Still, sometimes the unfortunate might happen when a package arrives at your doorstep with some missing parts or factory defects. If that ends up happening, the first and most logical thing that you should do is to contact the manufacturer or the shipping agent and notify them of the problem.

Whatever you do, do not try to DIY your way through a missing or defected part, as this might lead to injury or even void your warranty.

Simply follow the user’s manual from A to Z, and you should be good.


Number of Gears

Another thing to consider when buying an outdoor Elliptical bike is Number of Gears

Elliptical bikes come equipped with as little as three gears to as many as 24. There is no denying that these bikes are mainly fueled by your efforts; however, the number of gears on a bike can determine how fast a bike will go on specific terrain.

Bikes like the ElliptiGO Arc 24 comes with 24 gears designed for all kinds of different surfaces. Other models can come with just three gears, that’ll do fine on flat & smooth terrain.

So, you’ll need to pay close attention to the number of gears that an elliptical bike has if you plan on riding on a number of different terrains.


Speed

how fast can the elliptical bike that you want to buy go, is a question worth asking

You cannot compare the speed of elliptical bikes to their traditional relatives. However, they can still go at pretty decent speeds. Most models come with sensors to help you closely track speed.

While some models come with a maximum speed that is as low as 15mph, others are capable of going as fast as double the speed at 30mph.

Speed mainly depends on your expertise as well as the nature of the terrain you’re cycling on.


Portability

Portability is another thing to consider when buying an outdoor elliptical bike

Most elliptical bikes are on the heavy side of things. Some weigh as much as 30kg or more; however, some models can be as light as 15kg. They also tend to be anywhere from 2 to 6 feet wide and from 45 to 85 inches long.

Most bikes come with an extendable folding system so that you can easily store and transport them.


A Good Elliptical Bike Alternative - Schwinn GTX 3

The Schwinn GTX 3 is a great alternative to Elliptical bikes

Schwinn hybrid bikes take the strength of both road and mountain bikes and combine them into a highly functional, adaptable bicycle that’ll provide you with a complete experience.

The GTX 3 has a lightweight frame, coupled with super thing tires, to deliver to you the fastest speeds possible. Additionally, both the seat and the handlebars are positioned in a way that makes upright riding a super comfortable experience.

Such a combination allows riders to get the most fun and training out of their off-road riding journey. And for the money that you’re going to pay for the GTX 3, the features that you’re getting are unheard of.

I, myself, own a GTX 3, and I got to say that I’ve never had a bad experience riding this bike. It has a very comfortable seat, with a wide range of speeds that allow me to traverse through numerous different terrains without an issue.

The fact that this bike is a hybrid allows me to ride with a posture that counts as a significant improvement once compared to a regular road bike. Maintenance has also never bothered me with this bike.

I’ve done countless rides using this bike, often on harsh terrains, and I never found myself needing to replace a single part. The way the frame is built and the puncture-resistant tires make for an all-around durable and sturdy bike.

Another factor that led me to get this bike in the first place is its price, which is on the less expensive side of things considering what you’re getting in return.

Trust me when I say that this bike is a steal.

It’s durable, efficient, and comfortable. A must-have for any rider who wants to get all the benefits of a hybrid cycling experience with an affordable price tag.


The Benefits of Using an Elliptical Bike

As it turns out, the use of an elliptical bike comes with a range of cool benefits that make these machines worth the money

As is the case with any exercise equipment out there, you’d expect outdoor elliptical bikes to have some advantages that are exclusive to them.

One great thing about elliptical bikes is that their advantages transcend beyond those concerning the user’s body and go as far as convenience, entertainment, and the environment.


Eco-Friendly

Elliptical Bikes are Eco-Friendly, they are great for the environment

There are numerous ways in which an outdoor elliptical bike can be friendly to the environment.

Unlike a commercial elliptical, with an elliptical bike, you are free to exercise in the outdoors, without leaving a mark.

First off, the bike’s equipment requires no electricity or batteries or anything energy-powered at all. It only needs the power of your feet to go forward.

Not a single droplet of fossil fuel is needed. It’s just calories that your body saved up from your late-night snack.

And since elliptical bikes have no inputs, it is only logical that they also have no emissions at all. In the end, you ended up burning a lot of calories without causing any harm to the environment and the community, a win-win situation for everyone basically.


Exercise Safely

An amazing benefit of getting an outdoor elliptical bike is exercising safely

When looking back at the history and the creation of outdoor elliptical bikes, we’ll notice that this machine is made to mimic the motion of running. The idea came to the inventor while he was filming his daughter run.

The motion is modified enough to significantly decrease the impact that is constantly pounding your feet on the ground can have on your joints. However, although fully protected, your joints will still get the benefits of running.

Elliptical bikes are also super friendly to your back, knees, and hips because the steps/ foot pedals move more fluidly than a regular bike.

I’ve also found out that elliptical bikes are great for your posture since they require little to no crouching.


Portable

A great benefit of outdoor elliptical bikes is that they are Portable

Unlike a traditional elliptical machine, outdoor elliptical bikes can actually roll in any terrain (duh). Models that can be used indoors also exist, mainly made by StreetStrider.

Most outdoor elliptical bikes can easily be folded in one way or another making both storage and transportation easier than ever.

Some friends of mine even go as far as using their fitness equipment for short-distance travel, such as moving around campus or in the neighborhood. The fact that they can easily fit their folded bikes under a bus seat, in dorms or offices, is just a welcome addition.


Variety

Outdoor Elliptical bikes offer a lot of Variety

Don’t let an elliptical bike’s simplistic look fool you into thinking that it can’t provide you with different kinds of exercises.

Yes it might lack a lot of the new tech that other indoor exercise spin bikes offer, like LCD screens or workout apps like Zwift, but the ability to stand up while cycling alone is already a mix of all the benefits of cycling, elliptical trainer, and running.

Some athletes and casual users have managed to find ways to maximize the use of an outdoor elliptical bike by incorporating it into specific training and workouts.

Some of these include cardio and cross-training. There are professionals who even go as far as using elliptical bikes for races.

Casual riders will also benefit from using an elliptical bike since it’ll help keep their postures proper and their cardiovascular activity healthy. They can also use it to work on numerous core muscles such as the abdomen, hips, as well as their upper and lower body.


Difficulty Levels

One of the great benefits of Elliptical Bikes is they offer different Difficulty Levels

Some modern outdoor elliptical bikes come with settings and functionalities that allow you to precisely choose the difficulty level of your ride, depending on your performance and goals.

For one, if you want to have more rigorous training, you can adjust the incline or the resistance of the bike to fit your needs. Even the speed can be tailored to your preferences.

I recommend that you record and thoroughly follow the range of levels that you set and compare them with your plans. This will help you to get much more accurate results, which can be very useful, especially if you have personal targets.

You also have to keep in mind that you’ll be exercising outdoors, so there are numerous physical conditions that are out of your reach that you need to keep in mind.


Flexibility

Flexibility is another great benefit of using an outdoor elliptical bike, it suits a multitude of riders

Elliptical bikes are quite flexible in the way that they can be used by different kinds of riders. Unlike some fitness equipment out there, you don’t really have to be a professional to get the most out of an elliptical bike.

From its significantly low impact on your joints to the adjustability and portability, an elliptical bike is perfect for anyone and everyone, especially people who have injuries or can’t afford to get ones.

Most models are lightweight and super easy to use.

So even people who are limited force-wise can easily work their way around one and won’t have any difficulties training on one.


Elliptical Bikes Beginner FAQs

Here are several answers to beginners who still don't know where to start with elliptical bikes

Here are several more answers to your questions on elliptical bikes, their use and everything else.


Who Should Use an Outdoor Elliptical Bike?

The first kind of user that comes to mind when talking about an outdoor elliptical bike is the injured one.

This is simply because they’re ideal for runners who were unfortunately affected by injuries and will find traditional biking to be very uncomfortable.

That said, its low-impact operation makes it a great fit even for those who want to avoid getting injured or simply getting unwarranted pains in their joints.


Which Muscles Does an Elliptical Bike Target?

If used correctly, an elliptical bike could target your glutes, quads, hamstrings, and core muscles.

Wanna build that bubble butt? Yeah, an outdoor elliptical bike can help you do just that.


Is an Elliptical Bike Good for Weight Loss?

Long story short, a study done by the American Council on Exercise (ACE) found that users who used a StreetStrider outdoor elliptical bike burned significantly more calories than those using a stationary elliptical machine.


Is an Elliptical Bike Better Than a Stationary Bike?

While some people find running and biking to be somewhat uncomfortable, riding an outdoor elliptical bike feels very natural-like.

The fact that you have to assume a “stand up” position throughout the ride will significantly reduce back and neck stress to the point where you will experience little to no pain in those areas, unlike sitting on a regular bike.

So, if I were to put it short, my answer would be yes, Outdoor elliptical bikes are better than stationary, indoor ones. 


Is an Elliptical Bike Better Than a Traditional Bike?

When comparing an outdoor elliptical bike with a traditional one, you’ll find that the elliptical bike is superior in a lot of ways, including but not limited to:

Comfort

ElliptiGO bikes, as well as StreetStrider ones, usually provide a more comfortable ride than that of a regular bike.

Efficiency

Using an outdoor elliptical bike, you’ll get a more beneficial workout in less time. The positioning and posture required by these bikes, as well as the motion, will help to amp up your cardiovascular system, providing a more efficient cardio exercise.

Better Muscle Activation

The unique design of an elliptical bike will help develop the muscles of your legs, glutes, and core more effectively than a conventional bike.

No Unwarranted Pain

Ever feel back pain or experience a sore saddle after riding your bike around? Well, with the more ergonomic design of an elliptical bike, say goodbye to back, neck, and seat pain.

Fun

I know the fun is pretty subjective when it comes to training, but I personally prefer the elliptical bike over a traditional one.

Related Reading;

References:

  1. https://www.elliptigo.com/
  2. https://www.streetstrider.com/

Ben Mayz

Hi there! I'm Ben, main author and chief editor at Fitlifefanatics.com. I have been obsessed with Strength Training and Fitness for 18 years now.
My passion for living a happy fit lifestyle is what made me realize that fitness is what I wanted for my future.
I went on to earn my Masters in Sports Training & Biomechanics.
My passion for Strength training & fitness and my love of helping others is what made me start Fitlifefanatics.
Here, myself, and a team of specialist aim to provide the most accurate, and actionable information possible in hopes to help foster the fitness community forward.
You can learn more about Fitlifefanatics on our About Page

Ben Mayz

Hi there! I'm Ben, main author and chief editor at Fitlifefanatics.com. I have been obsessed with Strength Training and Fitness for 18 years now. My passion for living a happy fit lifestyle is what made me realize that fitness is what I wanted for my future. I went on to earn my Masters in Sports Training & Biomechanics. My passion for Strength training & fitness and my love of helping others is what made me start Fitlifefanatics. Here, myself, and a team of specialist aim to provide the most accurate, and actionable information possible in hopes to help foster the fitness community forward. You can learn more about Fitlifefanatics on our About Page