Best Mini Exercise Bikes and Under Desk Pedals

People spend an extraordinary amount of time sitting each day. Regrettably, too much sitting is not healthy. However, if you must sit, pedal exercisers like the under desk pedals, cycles, mini exercise bikes, pedal exerciser, cycle may help lessen some of the bad effects of sitting. Most noteworthy, these pedal exercisers, are specially built for use while sitting to exercise legs. However, some pedal exercisers, can also be used on a table to exercise arms.

Table of Contents

Why Some of these Pedals May be Used Under a Desk

First and foremost, some of the pedals, reviewed here, can be used while sitting or working at a desk. Now, a typical desk has a depth of at least 21 inches. And, the compact pedals, reviewed below, have length ranging from 15.5 to 20 inches. So they fit under the typical desk. On the other hand, the longer pedals have length ranging from 22 to 24 inches. So they will fit if the desk has that depth or if the desk is open in the back.

Meanwhile, some of the best elliptical trainers, used while sitting, have lengths that are greater than 18 inches and could be as long as 32 inches.

Best Desk Cycle (For Legs) Reviews

Comparison of Best Under Desk Pedals for Legs

Height (inches)

DeskCycle: 10"

DeskCycle-2: 9"

FitDesk: 10"

Display

DeskCycle: Revolutions per minute, time, distance, and calories

DeskCycle-2: Revolutions per minute, time, distance, and calories

FitDesk: Time, speed, distance, lifetime distance, and calories

Warranty

DeskCycle: Full 1-year warranty on parts, labor, and shipping

DeskCycle-2: 1 year

FitDesk: 3-years parts replacement guarantee for all moving parts. However, the pedals covered for only 30 days.

1. DeskCycle

DeskCycle Under Desk Cycle - Pedal Exerciser - Stationary Mini Exercise Bike

Best Pedal Exercisers

The most popular DeskCycle exercise bike has features described below.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered DeskCycle pedal exerciser comes almost fully assembled. However, the delivery also includes a combination screwdriver and wrench to complete assembly in short order.

Dimensions

In addition, the mini pedal exerciser is 24 inches long, 20 inches wide and 10 inches high. Also, at it's highest point the pedal is 10 inches above the floor. So, use this data with "Buyer's Guide" section, below, titled "Height for use Under a Desk" to determine feasibility of under desk use.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays speed, time, distance, and calories with the touch of a button. Meanwhile, the scan button, located on the LCD console, sequentially displays workout data continuously. Incidentally, the  DeskCycle accumulates time to 1000 minutes, before resetting to zero.

And, for more convenience, the portable display stand allows you to see your workout data on your desk, instead of having to look at it underneath the desk.

Exercise

Meanwhile, the mini pedal exerciser only exercises your legs.

Pedals

In addition, this mini pedal exerciser has large pedals with adjustable Velcro straps. Meanwhile, the double weighted base keep the straps on top of the pedals, making it easier to insert your feet.

Pedal Movement

Next, the pedals rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. Meanwhile the pedal arm is 3.5 inches long. Especially relevant, the pedals use a belt to drive a high inertia flywheel. And, this flywheel results in smooth pedal rotations. Furthermore, the DeskCycle has 7 sealed hardened-steel bearings for years of maintenance free operation. Incidentally, no lubrication needed.

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to easily adjust your workout from easy to hard. In fact, the 8 calibrated resistance settings help you keep track of your workout intensities. Furthermore, the magnetic resistance results in quiet pedal rotation.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the DeskCycle pedal exerciser comes with a full 1-year warranty on parts, labor, and shipping.

Weight

Finally, it weighs 23 pounds.

PROS

Display can be relocated to the desk top.

2. DeskCycle 2

DeskCycle 2 Under Desk Cycle - Pedal Exerciser - Stationary Mini Exercise Bike

Best under desk pedals

Next, the DeskCycle-2 has the following additional features.

Display

First of all, the DeskCycle-2 accumulates time to 10,000 minutes before resetting to zero. In addition, the LCD also displays revolutions per minute.

Height

Also, adjusting the front leg lets you set the maximum pedal height to either 9 or 10 inches. In fact, the lower pedal height gives you an extra inch of clearance between your knees and the underside of the desk. So, use this data with "Buyer's Guide" section, below, titled "Height for use Under a Desk" to determine feasibility of under desk use.

PROS

First, display can be relocated to the desk top.

Also, with a height of 9 inches, it is very likely to fit under most desks.

3. FitDesk

FitDesk Under Desk Cycle and Exercise Bike Peddler

Best under desk pedals and mini exercise bikes

The FitDesk under desk cycle has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the pedals, front and back support bars, and display need to be mounted on the chassis.

Dimensions

In addition, the exercise bike peddler is 24.5 inches long, 16 inches wide and 10 inches high. Also, at it's highest point the pedal is 9.75 inches above the floor. So, use this data with "Buyer's Guide" section, below, titled "Height for use Under a Desk" to determine feasibility of under desk use.

Display

Especially relevant, the LCD displays time, speed, distance, lifetime distance, and calories. Meanwhile, the scan button sequentially displays workout data continuously. And, for more convenience, the removable display allows you to see your workout data on your desk, instead of having to look at it underneath the desk.

Exercise

Most noteworthy, this under desk cycle only exercises your legs.

Pedals

In addition, the cycle has large pedals with grooves that prevent the feet from slipping. However, there are no straps to grip your feet. On the other hand, having no straps does make it easier to put your feet on the pedals and start using the cycle.

Pedal Movement

Next, the under disk cycle's pedals rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. Especially relevant, pedals use twin belts to drive a balanced flywheel which results in whisper quiet and smooth operation. Consequently, the under desk cycle is ideal for office use.

Tension

Next, tension is changed by the foot shifter. In fact, the foot shifter has 8 positions of magnetic resistance. Consequently, you can change the resistance without having to bend down.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the mini pedal exerciser comes with a 3-year parts replacement guarantee for all moving parts. Meanwhile, pedals are covered for 30 days.

Weight

Next, this under desk cycle weighs 24 pounds.

Weight Limit

Finally, the mini pedal exerciser, has no constraints on a user's weight to use the cycle.

PROS

First, under desk cycle's display can be moved to the desk top.

Also, it can be used under a desk as low as 26 inches.

Next, the under desk cycle's resistance can be changed by your feet - no need to bend down.

Best Mini Exercise Bike (For Legs and Arms) Reviews

Comparison of Best Mini Exercise Bikes for Legs and Arms

Height (inches)

Sunny SF-B0418: 14"

MagneTrainer-ER: 15"

YOSUDA Under Desk Bike: 10.95"

BOOKCYCLE Pedal Exerciser: 12.6"

Display

Sunny SF-B0418: Revolutions per minute, time, distance, odometer, and calories

MagneTrainer-ER: Speed, distance, time, and calories

YOSUDA Under Desk Bike: Revolutions per minute, time, distance, and calories

BOOKCYCLE Pedal Exerciser: Time, distance, revolutions, total revolutions, and calories

Unique features

Sunny SF-B0418: Forward rotation with handle

MagneTrainer-ER: Forward & backward rotation

YOSUDA Under Desk Bike: Forward & backward rotation

BOOKCYCLE Pedal Exerciser: Forward & backward rotation

Warranty

Sunny SF-B0418: 1 year for frame; 90 days for parts

MagneTrainer-ER: 1-year

YOSUDA Under Desk Bike: 1-year

BOOKCYCLE Pedal Exerciser: Information not found

4. Sunny SF-B0418

Sunny Health & Fitness SF-B0418 Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike

Best Pedal Exercisers

The very popular Sunny SF-B0418 magnetic mini exercise bike has features described below.

Assembly

First and foremost, the delivered bike comes almost fully assembled. In fact, only the two pedals and the two feet have to be attached to the bike.

Dimensions

In addition, the bike is 22 inches long, 18 inches wide and 14 inches high. So, use this data with "Buyer's Guide" section, below, titled "Height for use Under a Desk" to determine feasibility of under desk use.

Display

Especially relevant, the easy to read LCD screen displays distance (in miles), calories, time pedaled in hours and minutes, current revolutions per minute, and an odometer. Meanwhile, the scan button on the LCD console sequentially displays workout data continuously.

Exercise

Most of all, the bike exercises your arm and leg.

Handles

Next, it has a built-in handle that makes it easy to lift and move the bike from one location to another. Also, the handle has small finger grooves making it easy to grip the bike while moving it.

Pedals

In addition, it has oversized textured non-slip pedals with adjustable large heavy-duty plastic straps to help keep your feet in place as you peddle. In addition, the pedals have small finger grooves making it easy to grip them when exercising the arms.

Pedal Movement

Next, the pedals rotate in only the forward direction. Consequently, if you want to pedal in reverse, turn the bike around. Especially relevant, the pedals use a belt to drive the flywheel. 

Tension

Next, the tension knob allows you to easily adjust your workout from easy to hard. In fact, 8 calibrated magnetic resistance settings help you keep track of your workout intensities. Furthermore, the magnetic resistance results in quiet pedal rotation.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the bike comes with a 1 year warranty for the frame and a 90 day warranty for all other parts.

Weight

Next, it weighs only 21 pounds.

Weight Limit

Finally, the bike is limited to anyone weighing less than 220 pounds.

PROS

First, with the help of the bike's handle it is easy to move.

Next, magnetic resistance results in a quiet workout.

CONS

However, pedals only move in forward direction. So, to go in reverse, manually turn the bike around.

5. MagneTrainer-ER

MagneTrainer-ER Mini Exercise Bike Arm and Leg Exerciser

mini exercise bike

The very popular MagneTrainer-ER mini exercise bike has the following features.

Assembly

First and foremost, the pedals, front and back support bars have to be attached upon delivery. However, all necessary tools are provided.

Construction

Most noteworthy, it has a sturdy steel frame.

Dimensions

In addition, the MagneTrainer-ER is 15.5 to 20 inches long, 15 inches wide and 18 inches high. However, the highest point of the pedal is 15 inches above the floor. So, use this data with "Buyer's Guide" section, below, titled "Height for use Under a Desk" to determine feasibility of under desk use. Also, the wide footprint provides excellent stability. In fact, both legs are over 15 inches wide which helps prevent the bike from wobbling.

Display

Especially relevant, the electronic monitor displays speed, distance, time, and calories.

Exercise

Also, the MagneTrainer-ER exercises legs and arms.

Pedals

In addition, it has pedals with a non-slip surface and adjustable Velcro straps to grip your feet. Also, the pedals are molded with finger grooves that allow you to firmly grip them for exercising arms.

Pedal Movement

Next, the pedals rotate in both the forward and backwards direction. Also, the pedals drive the flywheel with wide 4V belts and heavy-duty pulleys. Moreover, the effective 39-pound flywheel helps keep the pedals moving smoothly and quietly.

Tension

Next, the tension knob provides 20 marked levels of magnetic resistance to adjust your workout. Indeed, the 5-rotation knob helps set resistance precisely.

Use

Most noteworthy, the MagneTrainer-ER is used in hospitals, physical therapy offices, nursing homes, assisted living facilities.

Warranty

Especially relevant, the exercise bike comes with a full 1-year warranty and a 30-day money back guarantee.

Weight

Finally, it weighs 23 pounds.

PROS

MagneTrainer-ER is used in hospitals, physical therapy offices, nursing homes, assisted living facilities.

6. YOSUDA Under Desk Bike

YOSUDA Pedal Exerciser - Magnetic Mini Exercise Bike - Desk Pedal Bike

Besk Under Desk Pedals and Mini Exercise BIkes

First and foremost, this under desk cycle can be used at the office, by the elderly, those injured, those with reduced mobility, and those needing physical therapy to relieve their pain and restore/maintain their motor functions.

Benefits

Above all, this under desk cycle improves blood circulation in the legs and in the arms when hands are used. Also, this low impact mini exercise bike is good for the joints.

Assembly

First, the delivered mini cycle can be assembled within 10 minutes.

Construction

Second, the under desk cycle has a sturdy ABS and steel frame. As a result, it doesn’t wobble back and forth when you use it.

Dimensions

Now, the mini exercise bike is 12.28 inches wide, 21.6 inches deep and 10.95 inches high. So, use this data with "Buyer's Guide" section, below, titled "Height for use Under a Desk" to determine feasibility of under desk use.

Display

Next, the mini cycle's big easy to read LCD monitor displays time, distance, revolutions per minute, and calories. Meanwhile, the scan button sequentially displays all these measurements.

Exercise

The mini cycle gives your legs and arms a workout while you are sitting at work or at home.

Handles

Also, the mini cycle has a built-in handle that makes it easy to lift, store, and move the bike.

Pedals

In addition, the under desk cycle has pedals with adjustable straps to help keep your feet in place as you peddle. Furthermore, you can adjust the straps, to fit your foot, by using nuts. Also, the anti-slip pedals drive a high inertia flywheel which makes your pedal rotations smooth.

Pedal Movement

Next, the under desk cycle’s high-quality samarium cobalt magnet results in smooth and quiet pedaling. In fact, the exerciser generates less than 20 decibels. Furthermore, the pedals rotate in both forward or reverse direction.

Sliding

Meanwhile, the mini exercise bike has four anti-slip rubber pads and two wide base tubes to ensures it stays in place on hard floors, carpets, and table top.

Tension or Resistance

Next, the under desk cycle comes with 8 adjustable levels of magnetic resistance to control the intensity of your workouts. In addition, the tension knob, used to adjust resistance, has 8 settings while rotating clockwise or counter-clockwise.

Warranty

By the way, the mini cycle comes with a 1-year warranty.

Weight

Finally, this mini cycle weighs 22 pounds.

PROS

First, at 20 decibels, you get a quiet workout.

Also, its 22 pound weight and non-slip rubber pads, gives you a sturdy platform for pedaling.

7. BOOKCYCLE Pedal Exerciser

BOOKCYCLE Mini Exercise Bike - Pedal Exerciser

Mini Exercise Bike

Benefits

Above all, the Bookcycle pedal exerciser is perfect for recovery after surgery or injury of the knees and shoulders. Also, this mini cycle helps the elderly, who may not be able to go the gym, exercise their legs and arms.

In addition, this mini cycle can be used to improve blood circulation in the legs and in the arms. Furthermore, it helps relieve tension. Finally, it can relieve stiff legs and arms.

Assembly

First, the only assembly required is to attach pedals, straps, and the two leg stabilizers.

Construction

Second, the mini cycle uses an enforced steel frame.

Dimensions

Third, the Bookcycle is 13.8 inches wide, 16 inches deep, and 12.6 inches high. So, use this data with "Buyer's Guide" section, below, titled "Height for use Under a Desk" to determine feasibility of under desk use.

Display

Also, the mini cycle's LCD monitor displays exercise time, distance, revolutions, total revolutions, and calories. Meanwhile, the scan button sequentially displays all these measurements.

Exercise

Most of all, the mini cyle exercises legs and arms.

Pedals

Next, the non-slip pedals have adjustable straps that grip the feet to the pedals. Also, the pedals have a non-slip surface with molded finger grips. Consequently, the pedals can be gripped by hands to exercise arms.

Pedal Movement

Meanwhile, the pedals can rotate in both the forward and reverse direction. Also, the pedals drive a 5-pound iron flywheel to give a quiet and smooth workout.

Sliding

Next, the mini exercise bike has four rubber feet beneath the front and rear stabilizers. Consequently, it won’t scratch the floor. So, it can be used on floor for leg exercise or on desk for arm exercise.

Tension or Resistance

The tension knob allows you to adjust resistance.

Warranty

None described.

Weight

The Bookcycle mini cyle weighs 13 pounds.

CONS

Regrettably, there is no mention of a warranty for this mini cycle.

Under Desk Pedals and Mini Exercise Bikes Buyers Guide

The mini exercise bike's buyers guide gives insight into under desk pedal's and mini exercise bike's features.

Under Desk Pedals and Mini Exercise Bikes FAQ

Other Under Desk Exercisers