Is a Recumbent Bike Good for Knees?

Recumbent bikes improve joint health and relieve knee pain by reducing impact through a reclined, supported position—ideal for arthritis, post-surgery rehab, and older adults needing low-impact cardio. They are a valuable tool for knee recovery and pain management, offering a safe and effective way to exercise.

Knee pain—whether from arthritis, injury, or post-surgery recovery—often limits traditional forms of exercise. But that doesn’t mean movement has to stop. Recumbent biking is a form of low impact exercise, making it suitable for those with knee issues. In the following sections, we’ll explore How Recumbent Bikes Help With Pain, Rehab, and Recovery, and we’ll also recommend features to look for in a bike if knee health is your priority.

Recumbent Bike for Knee Pain

Recumbent bikes are good for bad knees, especially for individuals who are experiencing chronic or post-injury knee pain. Their semi-reclined position, large seat, and forward-positioned recumbent bike leg position reduce pressure on the knee joint by limiting the degree of flexion and minimizing impact forces. It is important to adjust the seat and seat height so that your knee is slightly bent at the bottom of the pedal stroke, ensuring proper knee flexion, alignment, and optimal pedal stroke. Maintaining a smooth circular motion during pedaling helps improve joint flexibility and reduces knee strain.

According to research published in The Journal of Orthopaedic Research and Clinical Biomechanics, cycling in a recumbent position can:

• Reduce compressive force (standing, running, or jumping) and shear forces (moving left and right) across the knee joint [1; 2]
• Promote synovial fluid circulation, which improves joint lubrication and helps relieve stiffness
• Strengthen recumbent bike target muscles, including the muscles surrounding the knee and various muscle groups, which offload pressure from the joint and support pain relief and reduced knee pain
• Provide a low-impact cardiovascular recumbent bike workouts, essential for joint health, weight management, and overall health

💡 If you feel any discomfort while cycling, please read this article -- How to Adjust Recumbent Bike Position

💡If you’re recovering from knee replacement and considering recumbent bike workouts, be sure to check out this article first -- Recumbent Bike After Knee Replacement: A Safe and Effective Rehab Tool

Start slowly with low resistance and focus on gradual progression to avoid overuse injuries and additional stress on the knee. Including rest days in your exercise regimen is also important to promote recovery and prevent overuse injuries.

Stationary bikes, including recumbent exercise bikes, are the right bike choice for those seeking a comfortable workout with less stress on the knees due to their reclined seating position, seat and backrest, and adjustable resistance levels. Recumbent bikes, with their comfortable seating position and reclined seat, provide less strain and reduce undue stress on the knees compared to upright bikes, which can place more strain on the knee joints.

Regular cycling, whether indoor or outdoor cycling, can improve knee joint mobility, cardiovascular fitness, and overall health, while also supporting weight management and mental health benefits. Recumbent biking can also benefit those with patellofemoral pain syndrome.

Before starting a new exercise regimen, especially if you have an existing knee condition or existing knee pain, consult a healthcare professional or healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure proper alignment and safety.

Is a Recumbent Bike Good for Arthritic Knees?

Yes, a recumbent bike is good for Arthritic Knees. Clinical studies show it help reduce pain and improve joint function in people with knee osteoarthritis. Recumbent exercise bikes are also a valuable tool for managing other knee conditions such as patellofemoral pain syndrome, providing a low-impact exercise option that can help reduce knee pain. A 2021 systematic review published in Clinical Rehabilitation showed that recumbent biking significantly reduces pain and improves joint function in individuals with knee osteoarthritis, offering notable pain relief and supporting joint recovery [3].

Additionally, a biomechanical study by Reiser et al. titled “Knee loads in the standard and recumbent cycling positions” [4] found that recumbent bikes significantly reduce anterior shear forces on the knee, particularly those that place strain on the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament). Recumbent exercise bikes and other stationary bikes not only help with pain relief and reduce knee pain, but also support cardiovascular health and can improve cardiovascular health, making them a valuable tool for overall well-being.

Related Article: Is Recumbent Bike Good for Hip Arthritis?

Best Recumbent Bike for Knee Rehab

According to the study “Joint contact forces during semi-recumbent seated cycling” [5], certain design factors in recumbent bikes can significantly influence joint loading—especially important for rehab patients. Based on that, here are a few features to prioritize:

• Adjustable seat: You should be able to slide the seat forward and back to get the right knee angle.
• Low step-through design: Easier to get on and off, especially important post-injury.
• Magnetic resistance: Smooth and quiet resistance that you can increase gradually.
• Multiple resistance levels: Look for a bike that offers multiple resistance levels to accommodate different fitness levels and rehabilitation needs.
• Adjustable resistance: Adjustable resistance allows you to customize workout intensity based on your fitness level or recovery progress.
• Adjustable resistance levels: Having adjustable resistance levels is essential for tailoring your workouts and ensuring gradual progression as you build strength and mobility.
• Comfortable back support: A supportive seat and backrest help you maintain posture and avoid slouching.
• Reclined seat and reclined seating position: A recumbent bike with a reclined seat and reclined seating position provides a comfortable seating position, reduces stress on the knees, and supports proper body posture.
• Comfortable seating position and seating position: Prioritize a bike that offers a comfortable seating position to minimize strain and enhance comfort during exercise.

Choosing a bike with these features is crucial for knee rehab, as it supports proper body alignment and reduces joint stress. Proper bike setup and gradual progression in resistance can help improve joint flexibility and knee joint mobility. Selecting features based on your fitness level and fitness goals will help you create an effective exercise regimen tailored to your needs.

Recommended: Vanswe RB407 Recumbent Bike

Vanswe RB407 is one of the best stationary recumbent bike in US market, offering a thoughtful balance of comfort, quiet performance, and user-friendly features. Designed with beginners and budget-conscious users in mind, it aims to make low-impact home workouts more accessible and enjoyable.

Product Hightlights

• Affordable & Beginner-Friendly – Designed for entry-level users with a budget-friendly price.
• 16-Level Magnetic Resistance – The lowest starting resistance among Vanswe recumbent bikes—ideal for those with knee pain or anyone starting with low resistance for a gradual adaptation.
• Comfortable Workout & Low Impact – Provides a comfortable workout experience with a smooth, joint-friendly motion, making it suitable for low impact workouts and rehabilitation.
• Super Quiet Operation – Utilizes a magnetic flywheel, dual-belt system, and needle roller bearing for noise-free cycling.
• Bluetooth Connectivity & Digital Tracking – Syncs with Kinomap, Zwift, and a free fitness app for interactive training.
• Compact & Adjustable Design – Seat accommodates users from 5’2” to 6’1”, ensuring a personalized fit.

User Experiences

"I had knee replacement 3 months ago and wanted to continue to keep/improve my Range of Motion. This bike is perfect. It took about 1 hr to put together. The seat is comfortable and adjustable (forward and back. I move the seat often during workout to get the most stretch and bend I can. The resistance is a nice feature. You can monitor your heart rate by holding handles on the sides of seat.
Bike takes up very little space. I would highly recommend!"

"I'm recuperating from a total knee replacement and needed a bike for my rehab. I'm so pleased with this bike, particularly in that the pedal resistance is perfectly consistent and adjustable. The seat slides too so I can easily adjust the pedaling arch to advance my ability to flex my knee. I had a question about assembling and adjusting the level that locks the seat in place; I was afraid I was going to break it it I pushed harder. I reached out to support and they were back with me in a few hours telling me exactly what I needed to know."

"I like this bike because I do not have to go to the gym. Within the next few months, I will need knee surgery and going to the gym is more painful than the exercising. Same quality as the gym, it gets the job done. It took me a couple of hours to put together myself, I still could not figure out how to put straps on the peddles, however, it works fine without them."

"Once we received the bike, I assembled it without any problem. Instructions are clear and I was amazed at the quality of this bike. I have used it for 1 hour straight and the seat is very comfortable and the bike does not wobble! My wife has knee issues and loves it. She has used it twice on the no resistance mode for 1 hour each time without pain! She can peddle comfortably and exercise the upper body at the same time without holding the handles. It is a very sturdy bike, good quality and good price, do not hesitate to buy it!"

"This bike is being used for rehab after surgery. As a senior woman I had to put it together myself. It took me approximately 2 hours to assemble. Very happy with how quiet it is, my husband was using it and I didn't know he was still on it until I looked over to the bike."

"Wife needed this for rehab after knee replacement surgery. Probably doesn’t have all the features of higher priced brands, but has everything and more for rehabilitation and we both have continued to use it for exercise since purchase."

"I purchased this to rehab bilateral knee replacement surgery. Easy to assemble. Love the adjustable seat and the iPad holder. All in all, a great choice."

"My physical therapist recommended a recumbent bike to help me with my knee pain. I bought this one a year ago and have been very happy with my purchase! It is very comfortable and I like the very readable digital LED monitor which also holds my tablet. Recently the monitor refused to work even after a battery change. I contacted Vanswe Customer Service by email to let them know of this situation. The next day they had a new monitor on its way to me at no charge!! WOW! I had the new monitor within the week, my husband installed it for me and it works perfectly. If only all customer service was this excellent, the world would be a bit happier place. Have no fear to order this reasonably priced and well made exercise bike. If you have any issues at all, this company will make it right."

Product Link: Vanswe RB407 Recumbent Stationary Bike

FAQ

Why Do My Knees Hurt After Using a Recumbent Bike?

Knee pain after using a recumbent bike is usually caused by improper setup or form. Common issues include:

• Incorrect seat position – Sitting too close or too far can overbend or overextend your knees.
• Too much resistance – High resistance adds joint strain; start low and increase gradually.
• Poor pedaling technique – Avoid locking your knees or pushing too hard.
• No warm-up – Skipping warm-up can lead to stiffness and discomfort.

If pain persists despite these adjustments, consult a physical therapist to check for underlying joint conditions.

Conclusion

Recumbent bikes are a knee-friendly exercise option that offers support, stability, and a smooth workout. Beginners recovering from knee issues can start with 10–15 minutes of gentle pedaling per session, 3–5 times a week, and gradually increase duration as comfort improves. They’re ideal for people with joint pain, arthritis, or those recovering from knee injuries. While upright bikes can be useful too, the comfort and design of recumbent bikes make them the better choice for knee rehab and long-term joint care.

In addition to knee care, recumbent biking supports overall health, overall well being, mental health benefits, and weight management, making it a comprehensive option for improving your quality of life.

As always, listen to your body, start slow, and make sure your bike fits you well. Your knees will thank you!

Refference

1. Koehle, M. J., & Hull, M. L. (2010). The effect of knee model on estimates of muscle and joint forces in recumbent pedaling. Journal of biomechanical engineering, 132(1), 011007.
2. Crossley, C. B., Diamond, L. E., Saxby, D. J., de Sousa, A., Lloyd, D. G., Che Fornusek, & Pizzolato, C. (2024). Joint contact forces during semi-recumbent seated cycling. Journal of biomechanics, 168, 112094.
3. Luan, L., Bousie, J., Pranata, A., Adams, R., & Han, J. (2021). Stationary cycling exercise for knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical rehabilitation, 35(4), 522–533.
4. Reiser, R. F., 2nd, Broker, J. P., & Peterson, M. L. (2004). Knee loads in the standard and recumbent cycling positions. Biomedical sciences instrumentation, 40, 36–42.
5. Crossley, C. B., Diamond, L. E., Saxby, D. J., de Sousa, A., Lloyd, D. G., Che Fornusek, & Pizzolato, C. (2024). Joint contact forces during semi-recumbent seated cycling. Journal of biomechanics, 168, 112094.