If you’re looking to invest in an indoor exercise bike, then you’ve likely seen that you have a lot of options. From the infamous Peloton Bike to the budget bikes you can grab from your local retailer.
One of the biggest differences you’ll notice between the pricier bikes and the budget-friendly options is an attached screen...or a lack thereof. And, while there are a plethora of benefits using indoor exercise bikes, you will be super excited to see what these smart bikes can bring to the table.
Do you need a bike with a screen in order to take advantage of the best programming? Why choose an indoor bike with a screen?
In this article, I’m going to talk about whether or not you really need a bike that comes with an attached screen and what the reasons are that you would want to choose one that does.
Do You Need a Smart Bike With a Screen?
No, you don’t, but they are nice to have. The truth is that you can purchase a simple bike, like the Bowflex C6 that comes without a screen, and experience the same programming that everyone has come to know and love by streaming an app from your phone.
Most bikes these days that don’t come with an attached screen do come with an integrated tablet or smartphone holder that allows you to stream programming easily and conveniently. The omission of a screen helps to keep the cost of the bike significantly lower.
While you don’t need a bike with a screen to enjoy premium cycling content, many people find that the experience is amplified when there is a dedicated, large, HD screen attached to the bike. Next, we’ll talk about the top reasons why you might consider choosing an indoor spin bike with a screen.
4 Reasons to Choose an Attached Screen Smart Bike
Screens are not a necessary prerequisite for a great workout, however, they will add some value to your cycling experience. Here’s why:
1. You can an up close and personal view of your workout
If you’ve ever used your smartphone as your screen, then you know that your viewing window is small. The biggest the screen, the more immersive the experience.
2. You don’t have to worry about having a deceive charged up and ready to go
Imagine heading to your home gym to hop on a live class that you’ve been looking forward to all week, only to discover that your phone or tablet doesn’t have enough juice to power you through.
3. You won’t be distracted by texts, calls, and notifications
I don’t know about you, but when I get an email, text, or other notification, I tend to want to check it right away. So what happens when your phone is your screen? You end up pausing your workout, and that’s always a slippery slope.
4. They’re so easy to navigate
All of the major bike manufacturers that include screens make them super simple and easy to use. They’re touchscreen, so all it takes is a couple of taps to navigate around and to adjust your settings.
Now that you’re no doubt convinced that your best bet is to buy a bike with a screen, let’s talk about whether or not you can get one on a budget. Is there such a thing as a budget bike that comes with a screen?
Getting the Full Experience Without Breaking the Bank
So you want a bike with a screen but you don’t want to have to take out a small loan to finance it? You’re in luck because you have options.
My favorite “budget” bike is the MYX Fitness bike. Recently, I discovered, researched and did a detailed assessment of the myxfitness exercise bike with a swivel screen. It has all the bells and whistles that you’ll get with its competitors, without the big price tag. In fact, it’s nearly $1000 less than very similar bikes.
The MYX comes standard with a 21.5” HD touchscreen and their own app that’s full of programming. The best part is that you can upgrade to the MYX Plus and get all the equipment you need to crush your home workout for less than the cost of their competitors.
If you want to have the Peloton Experience without the Peloton price tag, then you’re going to love what you’ll get with the MYX Bike!