Metzler

For those who want to start an exercise program that includes a stationary cycle, a used recumbent exercise bike my be just the item. Many people who are knowledgeable in the field of exercise equipment report that the best way to get a good used recumbent exercise bike is to take plenty of time shopping around for the right second hand model.

There are two general classes of exercise bikes: recumbent bikes and upright bikes. Recumbent bikes have chair-like or bucket seats. As you exercise, your body is in a semi-reclining position. Your legs angle out in front of you to reach the pedals instead of extending down as they do on an upright bike. Many users report that this design is much more comfortable and puts less stress on the back and knees. Upright bikes are sometimes referred to as "stationary bikes" although this term is now becoming a catchall term for both upright and recumbent bikes. These are the traditional exercise bikes that have been around for years and are similar in form to traditional outdoor bicycles.

Buyers can certainly find excellent used equipment, primarily because dozens of people purchase top-of-the-line exercise bikes, try them for a while, lose interest and then push the bike into the corner. Remember that you may be buying a bike that may no longer be manufactured. This shouldn't be a problem if the model is relatively new and is made by a top company. But buying second hand equipment can always be risky, even when the company was very popular during its heyday.

Instead of buying a second hand exercise bike, users may also want to search for one of the few new bikes left from original inventory. A second hand model of a recumbent exercise bike might not give satisfactory results and could be unsafe if not properly maintained. Users may also be able to find a used recumbent exercise bike at a garage sale, second hand sports store or through an online auction. It may also be possible to find a remanufactured exercise bike. The used recumbent exercise bike should be matched to your size, though most exercise bikes are easily adjusted for almost any body type. Prices range from $200 to more than $1,000, depending on original cost.

Buying a used bike (or even a new bike) online creates the risk of not getting exactly what you thought you were going to get. The bike you purchased may not have the exact specs or may be bigger or smaller than you thought it would be. It is very likely that the delivery company will not bring it into your house, so you will have to set it up. If you are buying a used recumbent exercise bike in one of the growing number of second-hand stores, make sure you know how to transport and assemble the bike, unless you contract with someone set the bike up. You can sometimes purchase service contracts from a store (like Sears or others), in case of a problem. But this is something you should be sure of before you hand over the check.

Garen Garson has a an exercise bike site ExerciseBikeTips.com http://www.exercisebiketips.com