7 Best Elliptical Bike Combo [Review 2022]

If you’re looking for the best elliptical bike combo, it’s likely because they’re an effective solution for a combination of low-impact cardio and strength training. These 2-in-1 cross-trainers can work muscle groups that would normally require the use of multiple machines.

In terms of style, some resemble the recumbent bikes and others, stationary exercise bikes. However, you’ll not only use your legs to “drive” these machines but also use your arms. This means you’ll get a full-body workout. 

For those with joint pain, using either an ellipticals or a stationary bike offers a smooth workout that is free from the jarring impact of a treadmill.

This article covers the space and cost-saving benefits of the best elliptical bike combos. We look at several options, along with the pros and cons of each. Also, we’ll cover the exercise and health benefits of using one of these machines.

Best Elliptical Bike Combo Machines – Comparison

Best Elliptical Bike Combos: Detailed Reviews

Below, you will find our top choices for elliptical bike combos. We will go over features and pros and cons of each to help you determine which one’s the right fit for you.

1. Teeter Freestep Recumbent Cross Trainer and Elliptical – Best Overall

For low-impact cardio, the Teeter freestep recumbent cross-trainer is among the best elliptical bike combos. 

The natural stepping motion ensures impact-free mobility for your elbows, hips, back, and ankles. For maximum benefit, you should use your arms and legs, however, you could opt to work one or the other. The arm workouts target your triceps and biceps, back, and chest while you’re inadvertently gaining flexibility.

The Teeter recumbent elliptical has a manual magnetic resistance mechanism and a durable frame. It provides superior micro-adjustability within easy reach—on the seat frame. The backrest reclines, and the moving arms are flexible. The machine provides your joints and back with maximum comfort and minimal workout effects, making it a great option for rehabilitation, training, or elderly users.

The stress-free motion and commercial technology make it among the best elliptical bike combos for home use. It’s also great for physical therapy. It offers multiple configurations to suit your preferences. The reclining seat includes height adjustability. A frame-mounted dial regulates 13 smooth, magnetic resistance levels—from zero to maximum intensity. 

2. Proform Hybrid Trainer 2-in-1 Elliptical and Recumbent Bike

If you’re undecided between purchasing an elliptical or stationary bike, a perfect solution is to acquire both—or at least, a 2-in-1 combo. And the Proform hybrid elliptical bike combo is an obvious solution. This unique-style bike and elliptical combo offers both cycling and elliptical training capabilities.

This is certainly one of the best elliptical bike combos out there. With 16 silent magnetic resistance levels and an inertia-enhanced flywheel, this elliptical will give you a smooth and relatively quiet workout.

In addition, the iFit app can automatically control the resistance. And the wide-screen LCD on this hi-tech bike shows a graphical representation of the app’s virtual route. Together, the two give a realistic outdoor cycling experience or pre-programmed training options. 

In elliptical mode, the large, adjustable pedals make this one of the most comfortable machines on the market, while the water-bottle holder enables you to keep hydrated during your workouts.

However, while it’s one of the best recumbent elliptical combos, the manufacturer’s warranty on the parts and labor is not great. Although they offer a 5-year frame warranty, you’ll only get a 90-day parts and labor warranty. 

At 15 inches, the elliptical stride is reasonable, but you can get better. Still, this elliptical combo is certainly worth its money. You can also purchase the compatible iFit fitness classes separately.

Two people will probably spend up to 3 hours assembling this elliptical combo. Also, recheck your setup if you get constant squeaking or clicking noises after the first few uses.

3.  Body Champ 3-in-1 Trio Trainer – Hybrid Elliptical

With the Body Champ 3-in-1 trainer, you get an elliptical trainer, a recumbent bike, and a stationary bike. A benefit of this trainer is that you won’t need to change the pedals when switching from one mode to another.

This patented 3-in-1 hybrid elliptical functions as an elliptical trainer, a stationary bike, and a recumbent bike. With convertible equipment, you get the benefit of saving space while exercising multiple muscle groups. It’s definitely one of the best elliptical bike combos since the innovative design allows you to change between the three without having to dismount.

The reliable, computer-controlled, magnetic resistance flywheel system has 8 preset levels of resistance.

The fitness glider comes with 3 sets of integrated handlebars. A heart-rate monitor is mounted on the U-shaped handlebars. You could opt to use the traditional dual-action handlebars or the third wraparound handlebars. In addition, the transport wheels help with moving and storing the machine.

4.  Body Champ Best Elliptical Bike 2 in 1 Cardio Dual Trainer

This 2-in-1 patented elliptical trainer and upright stationary bike comes with a smooth-running and quiet magnetic resistance system. The deluxe LCD console has 10+ preset workout programs and the best part is that these can be heart-rate driven or customizable.

Also, with a 2-way adjustable seat and 2 sets of ergonomic handlebars, this is one of the best elliptical bike combos. And it’s capable of mode-to-mode switching during workouts. Like most elliptical bike combos, the pedals are bidirectional, though this one offers a step-through design—it provides easy ingress and egress, free from any linkage.

If by nature, you are target-orientated, you’ll be able to pre-plan your workout routine and follow the program. 

5.  Body Rider Elliptical Trainer and Exercise Bike BRD2000

This 2-in-1 trainer is one of the best elliptical bike combos in terms of price. You can effortlessly change from the elliptical trainer and the stationary bike mid-workout. And with a straightforward dial, you can easily adjust the resistance for your high-intensity interval training workouts. This makes it easy to increase your calorie burn.

The seat, with 7 different height settings, is both vertically and horizontally adjustable. And the 2 sets of handlebars boast 3 height options. With front and rear stabilizers and chain-driven fan resistance, you’ll enjoy a smooth gliding sensation when using the elliptical trainer, while a dial modifies the tension. 

The electrical console keeps track of time, velocity, distance, and calories burned. And the trainer is equipped with a rugged steel frame. Whether standing or sitting, you’ll feel the cool breeze from the fan.

As if that’s not enough, the BRD2000 offers an incline setting to further increase your heart rate and calorie burn.

6.  Plasma Fit 2 in 1 Elliptical Bike Trainer

For apartments and other smaller spaces, the Plasma Fit 2-in-1 is among the best elliptical bike combos in its class. The sturdy tubular steel and wide base offer excellent stability, while the soft handrail grips and textured pedals provide a notable grip.

With a weight capacity of 220 pounds, the Plasma Fit may not be suitable for larger individuals. The adjustable tension knob allows for beginner workouts, yet can meet the demands of seasoned fitness fanatics too. A battery-operated LCD provides speed, elapsed time, distance, heart rate, and calories burned.

7.  Goplus 2 in 1 Dual Trainer Elliptical and Exercise Bike

With its high-quality parts and heavy-duty steel construction, the Goplus 2-in-1 is the last of the best elliptical bike combos to make our list. The LCD records your training metrics, including calories burned, distance, speed, and time. This elliptical bike 2-in-1 is designed for professional use. 

The smooth-running fan of the Goplus 2 provides resistance and you can change this using an easy-to-reach dial. It has an adjustable resistance—with the turn of a knob, you can easily increase or decrease the resistance levels. In addition, you can easily adjust the comfortable seat height.

Another plus is that the built-in transport wheels will help you dexterously move the Goplus 2 from place to place.

Stationary Bikes Vs. Elliptical Trainers: Use a Combination to Get the Best of Fitness

So, which gives a better workout—an elliptical or a bike? There’s a reason for the persistent back-and-forth argument over stationary bikes vs. elliptical trainers, as they’re both efficient in boosting fitness.

In the category of foot-propelled exercise machines, you’ll find the elliptical bike (or trainer), regular stationary bike, recumbent elliptical bike (or trainer), and regular elliptical trainer.

Each of these cross trainers provides significant health benefits, such as improving stamina and the cardiovascular system. This reduces the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases such as strokes and hypertension.

According to a ResearchGate study, running does not cause osteoarthritis—deteriorating cartilage—in knees. In fact, in normal circumstances, running reduces the need for knee replacement surgery by around 50%. In addition, it improves musculoskeletal disability, pain, and functional capacity. The exception to this is in the presence of a prior knee injury. (Kumar, Manoj; 2017)

However, a separate study finds that running may well increase the risk of joint injury when obese. (Bowser BJ, Roles K. Effects of Overweight and Obesity on Running Mechanics in Children. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2021 Oct 1)

On the other hand, Healthline claims that a poor running style or excessive running may cause joint injury. 

So, while running may be good for joint health if you’re relatively fit, lean, and have no prior joint injury, steer clear of running if you fit into one of these categories.

It’s fair to assume that both elliptical trainers and stationary bikes are ideal. As far as fitness is concerned, no single cross trainer is better than the other. 

For example, elliptical machines are more demanding than stationary bikes—since an elliptical trainer provides a whole-body workout. Contrastingly, stationary bikes typically focus on the lower body, and, especially when standing, your heart rate is likely to skyrocket. But your workout intensity is key.

Health professionals recommended that older adults keep fit. Both elliptical trainers and stationary bikes are brilliant solutions for this. And people with disabilities or those recovering from joint injuries or surgery are no different.

The decision should not be a matter of, “Should I exercise?” but rather, “What equipment will most benefit me in my pursuit of a healthy lifestyle?” 

However, it’s a good idea to clarify your objectives. This will keep you motivated to reach your goal. Have a plan. If you aim to lose weight and become toned and conditioned, high-intensity interval training and a good diet will help you accomplish this.

Joint impact

Both ellipticals and stationary bikes provide low-impact exercise. According to EveryoneActive, low-impact exercises are those that deliver no pounding and minimal strain and weight to joints. 

The elliptical accomplishes this to a greater extent than a stationary bike does—because of the reduced angle of the knee, the bend and push required are less on an elliptical.

Muscle Toning

First, both machines are cardio-machines, which means that they tone muscles without adding to their bulk.

Elliptical and stationary bikes both target distinct classes of muscles. For example, an exercise bike focuses on the lower body, while an elliptical trainer works on both the upper and lower body strength.

This means that a stationary bike effectively targets the thighs, quads, hamstrings, buttocks, and calves. An elliptical, however, utilizes the glutes, back muscles, ribs, chest, abdomen, buttocks, thighs, hamstrings, biceps, triceps, and rhomboids. 

However, while an elliptical trainer engages a greater number of muscles, a stationary bike is more effective on the lower body than an elliptical is. In short, one should not replace the other.

Variability

The variety of motion options in an elliptical outweighs those of a stationary bike. For example, with a stationary bike, you’ll only be able to rotate the pedals in a forward motion. However, ellipticals can do both forward- and back-pedaling. 

While a dial on a stationary bike allows for easy resistance adjustments, an elliptical’s resistance controls are usually up and down arrow symbols on the display.

Fat Burning

This is usually the prevalent question when choosing workout options. Of course, exercise without a good diet is not likely to help you lose weight. Despite this, since exercise improves insulin sensitivity, it may well help you lose those extra pounds simply by reducing your cravings between exercise sessions.

Again, your choice of workout may well give you a greater calorie burn. Maybe you’ll simply work harder on the equipment you feel more comfortable using. In this case, you’ll elevate your heart rate to a greater degree and thus, burn more calories when using it.

The American College of Sports Medicine, however, suggests that elliptical trainers have greater fat-burning potential than stationary bikes.

Note that, usually, the more muscles involved in your workout, the greater your workout intensity will be.

Both machines are effective at aiding in weight loss. But the elliptical may have the edge.

Best Elliptical Bike Combo Buyer’s Guide

Even selecting a basic exercise machine can be a confusing and time-consuming task. But selecting a complicated machine, such as one of the best elliptical bike combos, requires more care and attention. This checklist may help you when evaluating the combo bicycle you aim to purchase. 

• Compatibility: Are the stride length, handlebar length, seat height, etc. correct for your frame?
• Purpose: Does this style of elliptical combo encourage you to simultaneously work your arms and legs, or do you find it easier to use only arms or legs?
• Weight capacity: Will this elliptical combo support a mass that’s well beyond your current weight?
• Resistance levels: Do the adjustable resistance levels allow for both low- and high-intensity workouts?
• Dimensions: Will the elliptical fit in your home gym?

Benefits of the Best Elliptical Bike Combos

Are you considering buying an elliptical bike combo? One of the latest trends in fitness is to use fewer machines to accomplish a greater workout. 

The best elliptical bike combo trainers allow you to adjust the seat both vertically and horizontally. This ensures you’re able to position the comfortable full-form seat to suit your height and limb lengths.

With sturdy pedals and well-padded handles, the best elliptical bike combo offers upright spinning capability. This works your lower limbs and gives a calorie burn akin to upright or outdoor bikes. In addition, you’ll get the upper body workout an elliptical bike provides.

If you’ve opted for the recumbent version, you may lose out on the spinning capability, but gain the sometimes-essential back-support. In the case of the Proform hybrid trainer and the Trust 2-in-1 elliptical, performing a few simple changes switches it from a recumbent elliptical bike combo to among the best elliptical bike combos.

So, is this machine the best one for you? Here are some advantages and disadvantages to help you decide:

1. Get 2-in-1

Opting for a 2-in-1 elliptical bike combo will not only save space but ultimately minimize the spending of your hard-earned cash. These combos range between $200 and $900. However, you’ll outlay $130–$1,300 for a standard elliptical trainer and $120–$1,900 for a stationary bike.

2. Cross-training

Cross-training is a brilliant way to burn calories and reduce body fat. But it’s also an excellent way to unwind and get those endorphins flowing after a hard day at work. In this way, the best elliptical bike combo is an ideal way to improve your mood. And the best part is you can do this at home while watching your favorite television show.

If you have ADHD tendencies and easily grow bored, then you may enjoy the fact that you can switch from the elliptical trainer to the bike, as well as choose to pedal forward or backward.

3. Whole Family Fitness

In households where you all have your own preferences when it comes to exercise routines, an elliptical bike combo can cater to everyone’s demands—from a super fit young adult who’s training for their first ultra-marathon, to an ailing grandmother with back problems.

Disadvantages of Even the Best Elliptical Bike Combo Trainers

With some elliptical bike combos, you may find that moving the hand bars while in bike mode is cumbersome. Additionally, these pedals seldom come with toe-straps; they’re similar to elliptical pedals rather than bike pedals. Another thing you should bear in mind is that these often come with very basic, almost featureless consoles when compared to a regular elliptical or bike.

Best Elliptical Bike Combo: Conclusion

Easy to use, elliptical bike combos provide an excellent cardio workout. Because of this, they are an efficient addition to a weight-loss program. But should you get an elliptical trainer or a combination of the elliptical trainer and an upright stationary bike? 

Elliptical bike combos incorporate the versatility of the two most popular machines used in commercial gyms: The recumbent bike and the elliptical trainer. Cost for cost, even the best elliptical bike combo won’t set you back by much more than either the best upright stationary bike or the best elliptical trainer on their own. So, it makes sense to purchase a combo and have two exercise options for the price (and the space) of one. 

For comfortable back support, elliptical trainers are better and for core exercising, you’ll probably want to work out on a stationary bike. 

The best idea is to compare the items on our list of the best elliptical bike combos and choose one that best caters to your needs. 

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