Display
Look for a clear display with easy-to-use controls. A good one will show some combination of your heart rate, calories burned, speed, revolutions per minute (RPM), and resistance levels, and details such as time and distance.
Programming
Look for machines with programs that allow you to adjust routines based on your fitness level and have heart-rate-controlled workouts that consider your age, weight, and gender.
Heart-rate monitor
Those with a chest strap are best; they don't impede your movement. Contact monitors measure your heart rate only when you're touching them, which can be inconvenient. Stand-alone heart-rate monitors are available for about $28 to $100. (See heart-rate monitor Ratings, available to subscribers.)
Resistance
Look for a machine that is easy to adjust and has a variety of workout levels. Most exercise bikes have electronic resistance control. All of the tested bikes can be adjusted electronically by using the controls.
Features
Decide which extra features are important to you: simple ones like a water bottle holder or book rest, or more interactive ones like video games.
