In-depth Guide to Upright Exercise Bikes: From Principles to Purchase

I. Foundational Understanding: What Exactly Are Upright Exercise Bikes?

Upright Exercise Bikes are a category of indoor stationary fitness equipment focused on "simulating the upright riding posture of traditional outdoor bicycles." Together with recumbent exercise bikes and spin bikes, they form the three main types of indoor cycling equipment, but they have clear distinctions in core design and application scenarios—especially in terms of ergonomic adaptation and training objectives.

(I) Core Characteristics: Precise Differentiation from Similar Equipment

(II) Scenario Value: Which Practical Fitness Pain Points Do They Solve?

1.Space-Constrained Scenarios: They occupy only 0.5-1㎡ of space (taking a common model as an example: 110cm in length × 50cm in width × 140cm in height). Foldable models reduce volume by 60% when stored (80cm in length × 50cm in width × 70cm in height), making them suitable for small apartment balconies (usually 120cm in width × 80cm in depth) and bedroom corners (a gap of ≥120cm between the end of the bed and the wall is sufficient for placement). Compared to treadmills (common size: 180cm in length × 70cm in width, occupying ≥1.26㎡), they save over 50% of space.

2.Environment-Constrained Scenarios: They are not affected by weather. They can replace outdoor cycling on hazy days (when PM2.5 ≥150μg/m³, outdoor cycling is not feasible), rainy days, and cold winter days (outdoor cycling below -5℃ may cause joint frostbite). Operating noise is ≤50 decibels (laboratory test: belt-driven models produce 42-48 decibels at moderate resistance, while chain-driven models produce 48-55 decibels), equivalent to the volume of normal conversation (40-60 decibels). Roommates in adjacent rooms (with normal sound insulation) can barely hear the noise, and families with infants can use them while the baby is napping (infants are usually sensitive to noise, and ≥60 decibels may wake them up).

3.Rehabilitation Needs Scenarios: Their low-impact nature makes them suitable for post-knee surgery recovery (clinical recommendations: anterior cruciate ligament surgery patients can start low-resistance riding 3 months post-surgery, and meniscus repair patients 2 months post-surgery, after doctor evaluation) and osteoarthritis patients (especially knee osteoarthritis—cartilage wear during riding is only 1/4 of that during walking). They can protect joints while activating leg muscles—quadriceps activation rate is approximately 65%, hamstrings 58%, and calf gastrocnemius 52%, effectively preventing muscle atrophy caused by long-term bed rest (10%-15% of leg muscle loss occurs if no exercise is done 1 month post-surgery).

4.Fragmented Time Scenarios: They are suitable for office workers to exercise during "spare time"—15 minutes of riding after waking up in the morning (while listening to news, without affecting the schedule), 20 minutes after lunch break (to relieve afternoon drowsiness), and 30 minutes while watching dramas at night (combining entertainment with fitness to avoid "sedentary drama-watching"). No special time planning is required, and they can be easily integrated into daily life.

II. Technical Breakdown: Working Principles and Core Components of Upright Exercise Bikes

(I) Working Principles: Energy Conversion and Resistance Control Logic

1.Energy Transmission Path: The user pedals the footplates (applying 20-50N of force, varying by resistance level) → the footplates drive the crank (usually 170-180mm in length, adapting to different leg lengths) to rotate → the crank connects to the flywheel shaft via the transmission system (chain/belt) → the flywheel (approximately 30-40cm in diameter) rotates at high speed (30-50 revolutions per minute at moderate resistance) → the rotating flywheel is resisted by the resistance system (magnets/electromagnetic coils), creating a "forceful feeling" during riding. In this process, the efficiency of converting human mechanical energy into flywheel kinetic energy is approximately 85%-90% (10%-15% loss in the transmission system). Heavy flywheels (15-20kg) have greater inertia, resulting in lower energy loss and an efficiency of up to 88%-92%.

2.Comparison of Resistance Adjustment Technologies:

Magnetic Resistance: Uses neodymium-iron-boron permanent magnets (magnetic strength approximately 1.2-1.5T). The distance between the magnets and the flywheel is adjusted via a manual knob (adjustment range 0-5cm). For every 1cm reduction in distance, resistance increases by approximately 10-15N. There are usually 8-12 resistance levels, with a maximum resistance of approximately 120-180N. It does not rely on a power supply, with an annual failure rate ≤5% (main failure is loose knob cables, with repair costs ≤20 yuan). It is suitable for users on a budget (500-1000 yuan).

Electromagnetic Resistance: Uses enameled copper wire electromagnetic coils (approximately 500-800 turns). Resistance is adjusted by the magnitude of the current (0.1-0.5A). For every 0.1A increase in current, resistance increases by approximately 30-40N. It supports 16-32 fine-tuning levels, with a maximum resistance of approximately 300-400N. Automatic resistance programs can be implemented via an MCU microcontroller (e.g., simulating 1-15° inclines). It requires a power supply (input voltage 220V, power approximately 10-20W, equivalent to the power consumption of a small night light) and is suitable for advanced training needs (1000-3000 yuan).

Friction Resistance: An early technology that generates resistance through direct contact between asbestos or rubber brake pads and the flywheel. Brake pads are approximately 5-8mm thick, with 1mm of wear every 100 hours of use, requiring regular replacement (brake pad cost approximately 10-30 yuan per piece). Operating noise is ≥65 decibels (a "squeaking" sound is produced during friction). Currently, it only exists in entry-level models priced under 100 yuan and is not recommended for mainstream users.

(II) Core Components: Key Parts That Determine User Experience

1.Flywheel:

Weight Selection Criteria: Female beginners/rehabilitation users with a height of 150-160cm and weight ≤55kg should choose an 8-10kg flywheel (starting force approximately 20N, equivalent to lifting a 2kg object, easy to start). Advanced users with a height of 170-180cm and weight of 60-80kg should choose a 15-18kg flywheel (starting force approximately 35N, requiring slight effort, with stable riding and no jitter). High-intensity trainers with a height over 180cm and weight ≥80kg should choose an 18-20kg flywheel (starting force approximately 45N, with strong inertia, suitable for interval sprints).

Material Differences: Cast iron flywheels (density 7.8g/cm³, usually spray-painted for rust prevention, with moderate corrosion resistance, prone to rust in long-term humid environments) and aluminum alloy flywheels (density 2.7g/cm³, with anodized surface treatment, strong corrosion resistance, 70% lighter than cast iron of the same volume, easy to move). Some high-end models use a "cast iron core + aluminum alloy shell" design, balancing inertia and lightweight (e.g., a 15kg flywheel: 12kg cast iron core + 3kg aluminum alloy shell).

2.Seat:

Adjustment Dimensions: Height adjustment range ≥15cm (for a user with a height of 160cm, adjust the seat height to 85cm; for a user with a height of 180cm, adjust to 100cm to ensure the knees are slightly bent when the feet are on the footplates). Forward-backward adjustment ≥5cm (adjust the seat forward by 2cm for a 160cm user and backward by 3cm for an 180cm user, so that the knee joint is perpendicular to the footplate axis when the forefoot is on the front end of the footplate). Some models support seat angle adjustment (±3°, allowing slight forward or backward tilt to relieve hip pressure).

Material Adaptation: For summer, choose perforated breathable leather (hole diameter 2-3mm, hole spacing 1cm×1cm, breathable hole coverage ≥30%). Tests show that in a 35℃ environment, the hip temperature is 4-6℃ lower than that of ordinary leather after 1 hour of riding. For winter, choose high-density foam (density ≥30kg/m³, compression rebound rate ≥80%, not prone to collapse after prolonged sitting, better warmth retention than leather—no cold feeling in the hips after 30 minutes of riding in a 10℃ environment).

3.Transmission System:

Chain Drive: Uses a 415-type bicycle chain (pitch 12.7mm, single-section weight approximately 8g), with power loss ≤3% (when a 60kg user exerts 50N of force, the actual force transmitted to the flywheel is approximately 48.5N). It is suitable for high-intensity riding (no slippage at resistance ≥150N) but requires lubrication with special chain oil (e.g., dry chain oil, low viscosity, not easy to stick to dust) every 3 months. Without long-term lubrication, chain wear accelerates, and service life shortens from 3-5 years to 1-2 years.

Belt Drive: Uses a polyurethane timing belt (20-25mm in width, 3-5mm in thickness, with toothed patterns on the surface to prevent slippage), with power loss approximately 5% (when a 60kg user exerts 50N of force, the force transmitted to the flywheel is approximately 47.5N). It has good quiet performance (15-20 decibels quieter than a chain, with almost no obvious sound at moderate resistance), requires no lubrication, and has a service life of 3-5 years. However, prolonged use at high intensity (resistance ≥200N) may cause the belt to stretch and deform (stretching over 5% causes slippage), requiring belt replacement (cost approximately 50-100 yuan).

III. Type Classification: Matching Product Models to Needs

(I) Classification by Resistance Adjustment Method

1.Basic Magnetic Resistance Models:

Core Configuration: 8-12 resistance levels (knob adjustment with clear markings, e.g., 1-8 levels clearly labeled for easy memory), mechanical dial (pointer display showing 3 data points: time, speed, distance; no backlight, requiring external light source for nighttime use), no power supply required (ready to use out of the box).

Target Users: Users on a budget of 500-1000 yuan, middle-aged and elderly users (over 60 years old, no need for complex functions), and students (small dormitory space, only used on weekends).

Representative Model Features: Frames are usually made of ordinary carbon steel (1.0-1.2mm thick, load capacity 100-110kg), footplates have no anti-slip straps (non-slip shoes required), and no moving casters (requiring 2 people to move).

2.Advanced Electromagnetic Resistance Models:

Core Configuration: 16-24 resistance levels (button adjustment, supporting one-click switching between high and low levels, e.g., large "+/-" buttons for easy operation), LCD backlit screen (digital display showing 6 data points: time, speed, distance, heart rate, calories, rotation speed; adjustable backlight brightness, no glare for nighttime use), built-in 5-8 training programs (e.g., fat loss mode, cardio mode, mountain mode—programs automatically adjust resistance changes).

Target Users: Office workers with a budget of 1000-2000 yuan, who need fat loss and cardio training (relying on data monitoring to track progress with 30 minutes of fat burning daily).

Representative Model Features: Frames are made of thickened carbon steel (1.2-1.5mm thick, load capacity 120-130kg), footplates have Velcro anti-slip straps (adapting to different shoe sizes), and 2 universal casters at the bottom (easy for single-person movement).

3.High-End Smart Models:

Core Configuration: 24-32 resistance levels (dual adjustment via APP and buttons, supporting remote control), color touchscreen (3.5-7 inches, resolution ≥480×320, supporting touch operation), APP connection (supporting Bluetooth 5.0, synchronizing data to mobile phones to generate weekly/monthly training reports including average speed, heart rate zone proportion, and total calorie consumption), virtual riding scenarios (built-in 10-20 classic global routes, e.g., Tour de France Alps section, Qinghai Lake section—screen images change in real time with riding speed), and online course interaction (3-5 live courses updated weekly, with coaches providing real-time posture guidance and supporting student rankings).

Target Users: Fitness enthusiasts with a budget of over 2000 yuan, who pursue an immersive experience (e.g., enjoying social interaction and needing professional guidance).

Representative Model Features: Frames are made of a hybrid of aluminum alloy and carbon steel (carbon steel for key parts to enhance load capacity, aluminum alloy for non-key parts to reduce weight, total weight ≤35kg), seats are ergonomically designed (with sacral support to reduce lumbar pressure), and support wireless connection to heart rate chest straps (heart rate detection error ≤3 beats per minute).

(II) Classification by Storage Needs

1.Non-Foldable Models:

Advantages: Integrated frame structure (no folding joints, 30% improved stability), load capacity ≥120kg (some models up to 150kg), no wobble during riding (lateral frame wobble ≤1cm when pedaling at maximum resistance).

Applicable Scenarios: Fixed fitness areas (e.g., balcony fitness corners, no need for movement for long periods) and small gym training areas (frequent use, no need for storage).

Notes: Measure the width of the door in the placement space before purchasing (ensuring the model can pass through—common non-foldable models are 50-60cm wide, requiring a door width ≥70cm).

2.Foldable Models:

Advantages: Thickness ≤15cm when folded (only 10cm for some ultra-thin models), can be stored under the bed (requiring a bed height ≥15cm) and in wardrobes (requiring a wardrobe depth ≥60cm). Some models can stand upright against the wall when folded (saving floor space).

Notes: Load capacity is mostly ≤100kg (a few high-end foldable models up to 120kg), so users with a weight ≥100kg should choose carefully. Folding joints use a metal buckle + spring structure; daily folding (once a day) may reduce spring elasticity. It is recommended to unfold the bike at least once a week to maintain spring tension. Do not place heavy objects on the folded bike, as this may cause deformation of the folding joints or damage to the frame. When folding, ensure all components are properly aligned before locking the buckle—never force the buckle to close if parts are misaligned, as this can wear down the locking mechanism and shorten its service life.

IV. Core Advantages: Why Choose Upright Exercise Bikes?

(I) Clear Fitness Effects
1.Fat-Burning Efficiency
A 60kg user riding at moderate intensity (6th resistance level, 20km/h speed) for 1 hour burns 350-450 kcal—1.2-1.5 times the calories burned by 30 minutes of jogging (300-400 kcal) and 1.4-1.8 times that of 1 hour of brisk walking (250 kcal). For more efficient fat loss, interval training (30 seconds of high resistance + 1 minute of low resistance) can boost calorie burn to 500-600 kcal per hour, a 30% increase compared to steady-speed riding. Additionally, the post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC) effect lasts 2-3 hours, during which the body continues to burn an extra 50-80 kcal.

2.Muscle Activation
Electromyography tests show that riding activates key muscle groups effectively: the quadriceps (thigh front) with an activation rate of ≥70% (electromyographic signal intensity of approximately 150μV when exerting force), hamstrings (thigh back) at ≥65% (130μV), calf gastrocnemius at ≥60% (120μV), and core muscles (abdomen and lower back) at ≥30% (60μV). With consistent training (3 times a week, 40 minutes per session), leg muscle mass can increase by 1.5-2kg after 8 weeks, and lower-body strength—such as single-leg balance time and consecutive squat count—improves by 10%-15%.

(II) Body-Friendly Design
1.Joint Protection
Riding exerts only 35% of the knee joint pressure compared to running. Unlike running, which delivers instantaneous impact (1.5-2 times body weight per step on the knee), riding applies continuous, even force to the joints. For those with joint discomfort, low-resistance riding (1st-3rd levels) maintains leg muscle activity without Aggravated joint burden, preventing muscle atrophy caused by prolonged inactivity (10%-15% of leg muscle can be lost if no exercise is done 1 month after surgery).

2.Cardiopulmonary Enhancement
After 8 weeks of moderate-intensity riding (heart rate maintained at 60%-70% of maximum heart rate) 3 times a week, maximum oxygen uptake (VO₂max)—a key indicator of cardiopulmonary function—increases by 15%-20%. This improvement enhances daily activity endurance: tasks like climbing stairs or walking long distances become less tiring, and resting heart rate can drop by 5-8 beats per minute, strengthening overall cardiopulmonary reserve.

(III) High Usability
1.Low Learning Threshold
Resistance adjustment via knobs or buttons is intuitive—beginners can master basic operation in 5 minutes. This is far more user-friendly than elliptical machines (which require coordinating arm and leg movements, taking ~15 minutes to learn) or rowing machines (which demand precise force rhythms and often cause lower back discomfort if used incorrectly).

2.Low Maintenance Costs
Belt-driven models have an annual maintenance cost of ≤20 yuan (only requiring regular wiping with a dry cloth), and magnetic resistance models have no easily worn parts (service life ≥5 years). In contrast, treadmills need regular running belt replacements (costing 150-300 yuan each) and annual motor maintenance (≈100 yuan), making upright exercise bikes more economical for long-term use.

3.Easy Portability
Most models are equipped with 2-4 universal wheels (diameter ≥5cm) and weigh 20-35kg, allowing even women to move them independently. This flexibility lets users adjust the bike’s position according to home layout changes, such as shifting it from the balcony to the living room for daytime training.

V. Buying Guide: A Practical Plan from Needs to Selection
(I) Basic Safety Indicators (Must-Check)

1.Load Capacity

Selection Formula: Maximum load capacity > user weight + 20kg. For example, a 70kg user should choose a bike with a load capacity ≥90kg, and a 90kg user needs ≥110kg. This redundancy prevents frame deformation from long-term use.

Frame Material Judgment: Carbon steel frames (thickness ≥1.2mm) produce a deep, solid sound when tapped (no hollow resonance), while thinner carbon steel (＜1.0mm) sounds crisp and is prone to bending. Aluminum alloy frames (with no visible scratches or oxidation spots) are lightweight and corrosion-resistant, ideal for damp spaces like balconies.

Welding Quality Check: Inspect frame joints—high-quality bikes have smooth, uniform welds with no slag or cracks. Rough, uneven welds indicate poor craftsmanship and potential structural risks.

2.Anti-Slip & Anti-Tip Features

Anti-Slip Pads: Rubber pads (≥5mm thick) are preferred over foam pads—they rebound quickly when pressed and leave no indentations. The pad coverage area should be ≥0.2㎡, covering all 4 bottom support points (2 front, 2 rear) to avoid edge slippage.

Stability Test: Grasp the handlebars, lift your feet 30cm off the ground, and shake gently. The frame should wobble ≤2cm (about the width of a finger) with no metal friction noise. At maximum resistance, pedaling hard with one foot should not cause the frame to tilt—tilting indicates poor center-of-gravity design.

(II) Customized Buying Strategies by User Group

1.Middle-Aged & Elderly/Rehabilitation Users

Core Needs: Low resistance, simple operation, joint protection, fall prevention.

Recommended Configuration: Magnetic resistance (8 levels, with clear 1-8 markings on the knob for easy recall); a seat with adjustable lumbar support (fits the lower back curve to reduce lumbar pressure); large footplates (area ≥120cm²) with Velcro anti-slip straps (≥20cm long, adaptation different shoe sizes); thickened handlebars (diameter ≥3cm, comfortable to grip without hand fatigue).

Avoid These Pitfalls: Steer clear of seats with unmarked height adjustments (requiring repeated test rides to find the right position), app-controlled models (needing phone pairing and account registration, which is difficult for seniors), and footplates without anti-slip designs (increasing fall risk for those with reduced balance).

Extra Tip: Prioritize models with an "emergency stop button" on the handlebars—pressing it immediately stops the flywheel, faster than powering off, which is critical for safety during sudden discomfort.

2.Office Workers/Fat-Loss Seekers

Core Needs: Efficient fat burning, data tracking, quiet operation, time-saving.

Recommended Configuration: Electromagnetic resistance (16 levels, with large "+/-" buttons for one-click adjustment); an LCD backlit screen (displays heart rate zones, e.g., "Fat-Burning Zone" and "Cardio Zone" clearly marked); belt drive (operating noise ≤45dB, suitable for lunch-break training in offices or nighttime use at home); built-in "fat-loss programs" (automatically adjusts resistance: 5-minute warm-up, 20-minute fat-burning, 5-minute cool-down—no manual adjustment needed).

Key Features: Look for heart rate alerts (screen flashes if heart rate exceeds 80% of maximum) and compatibility with fitness trackers (syncs heart rate data wirelessly, no need for a chest strap).

Time Adaptation: Choose models with a "15-minute quick fat-loss program" for fragmented time—perfect for busy office workers to squeeze in training during lunch or after work.

3.Small-Space Users

Core Needs: Space-saving, easy storage, portability.

Recommended Configuration: Foldable design (folded dimensions: thickness ≤15cm, length ≤80cm, width ≤50cm, fits under beds or in wardrobes); lightweight frame (≤25kg, manageable by one person); 4 universal wheels (more stable than 2 wheels, no deviation when moving); buckle fixation after folding (prevents component shaking during storage).

Notes: Folding joints should be metal (plastic joints wear out in 1-2 years). Confirm with the manufacturer that the bike has passed ≥1000 folding cycle tests. Models that stand upright when folded save 50% more floor space than horizontal-storage ones.

(III) Practical Testing Methods (For Offline Purchases)

1.Seat Adaptation Test

Adjustment Steps: First, set the seat height to align with your hip when standing. Sit down and pedal—when the footplate reaches the lowest point, your knee should bend at 5-10° (use a protractor to check, or ensure your knee is not fully locked). If your knee straightens completely, lower the seat; if the bend exceeds 15°, raise it.
Comfort Check: Ride for 5 minutes. There should be no sharp pressure pain in the hips (indicates insufficient foam density or too-narrow seat), no friction on the inner thighs (adjust seat forward/backward), and no knee soreness (recheck height if discomfort occurs).

2.Resistance Experience Test

Uniformity Check: Adjust resistance from level 1 to 8, staying at each level for 30 seconds. The force required to pedal should increase steadily—no "sudden heaviness" or "drop-off" (signs of poor resistance system precision).
Intensity Matching: Ride at level 8 for 1 minute. Your heart rate should reach 60% of maximum heart rate (maximum heart rate = 220 - age), with steady breathing (able to speak short sentences). If your heart rate is too high (>70% of maximum), the resistance is too strong; if too low (<50%), it’s too weak—choose a model with a resistance range that fits your fitness level.

3.Noise Test

Basic Test: Use a decibel meter app (place the phone 1m from the bike) and ride at moderate resistance for 1 minute. Noise ≤50dB is acceptable (equivalent to normal conversation).
Quiet Environment Test: Listen to the transmission system from 30cm away. Belt-driven models should have no obvious noise; chain-driven models should not produce a "rustling" sound (indicates insufficient lubrication or worn parts if noise is present).

VI. Usage & Maintenance: Extend Service Life and Boost Results
(I) Correct Usage Methods

1.Pre-Riding Preparation

Equipment Adjustment: Set the handlebar height to match your shoulder height. When gripping the handlebars with arms naturally hanging, your elbows should bend at 15-20° (avoid hunching or straining). If the handlebar is adjustable forward/backward, align its rear edge with the seat’s front edge vertically to maintain a natural posture.
Warm-Up Routine: Do static stretches first—hold each stretch for 30 seconds: stand and pull one ankle toward your buttock to stretch the thigh front; sit with legs straight and lean forward to stretch the calf back. Then ride at low resistance (1st-2nd level) for 5 minutes (15-20km/h) until your body warms up and your heart rate reaches 100-120 beats per minute.
Equipment Tips: Wear non-slip sports shoes (sole pattern depth ≥2mm); tuck in long pant cuffs (use leg clips) to avoid getting caught in the transmission system; tie long hair into a ponytail to prevent tangling with the flywheel.

2.During Riding

Posture Correction: Keep your upper body upright, shoulders relaxed, and abdomen slightly tightened (avoid hunching, which strains the lower back). Grip the handlebars lightly—your fingers should not turn white from over-gripping. When pedaling, use the entire foot (forefoot and heel) evenly, not just the toes (prevents ankle strain).
Intensity Progression: Beginners (Weeks 1-2): 3rd-5th resistance, 18-22km/h, 20-30 minutes per session. Weeks 3-4: Increase resistance to 5th-7th level, keep speed steady, and extend to 30-40 minutes. After Week 5: Add interval training (30 seconds high resistance + 1 minute low resistance) to boost fat loss.
Safety Reminder: If you feel dizzy, flustered, or joint pain, immediately lower resistance to level 1 and ride slowly for 2-3 minutes before stopping. Never suddenly jump to high resistance or speed—this can cause muscle pulls.

3.Post-Riding Relaxation

Stretching Routine: Focus on leg and core stretches:
Thigh front: Kneel on one knee, pull the ankle toward your buttock (30 seconds per leg).
Calf back: Stand facing a wall, one leg forward, the other straight with heel on the ground, lean forward (30 seconds per leg).
Core: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, raise hands overhead, and bend sideways (20 seconds per side).            

Equipment Cleaning: Wipe sweat from the seat, handlebars, and flywheel with a dry cloth (sweat salt corrodes metal and leather). For stains, use a damp cloth with a small amount of neutral detergent (e.g., diluted dish soap), then dry immediately. Do not pour water directly on the bike (prevents electronic component short circuits).

(II) Daily Maintenance Tips
Chain-Driven Models

Lubrication: Lubricate every 3 months (every 2 months if used ≥5 times a week). First, clean the chain with a chain cleaner and brush to remove dust and oil; after drying, drop 1 drop of chain oil on each joint, rotate the pedals to distribute oil evenly, then wipe off excess oil (prevents dust buildup).
Tension Adjustment: If the chain slips (pedals turn but the flywheel slows), loosen the rear axle screws, move the rear wheel back slightly (2-3mm each time), and tighten the screws when the chain sags ≤1cm (press the chain middle to check).

Belt-Driven Models

Cleaning: Wipe the belt with a dry cloth monthly to remove dust. If there’s oil on the belt, use an alcohol pad to gently wipe (alcohol evaporates quickly and won’t damage the belt).
Replacement Check: Replace the belt if it has cracks, edge fraying, or stretches over 5% (causes slipping). Choose a replacement belt with the same model number as the original (marked on the belt, e.g., "200-5M") to ensure proper fit.
Tension Adjustment: If slipping occurs, adjust the pulley screws—turn clockwise to increase tension until pressing the belt middle causes ≤5mm deformation.

Electronic Components

Display: Avoid touching the screen with sharp objects. If the display is blurry, check the batteries (for basic models) or power connection (for electromagnetic models). Replace batteries with the same type (e.g., 2 AA batteries) and ensure correct polarity.
Heart Rate Sensor: Wipe hand-grip sensors with an alcohol pad to maintain conductivity. If heart rate readings are inaccurate, ensure your hands are dry (moisture interferes with signals).
Storage Environment: Keep the bike in a dry, well-ventilated area (avoid dampness that causes rust or short circuits). Keep it away from air conditioners or heaters (extreme temperatures accelerate part aging).

Long-Term Storage (Over 1 Month)

Pre-Storage Steps: Clean the bike thoroughly, lubricate the chain (if applicable), and unfold foldable models (prolonged folding fatigues springs).
Regular Checks: Power on the bike monthly (plug in electromagnetic models, install batteries in basic ones) and ride at low resistance for 5 minutes to prevent component seizing.
Dust Protection: Cover with a breathable cotton dust cover (avoid plastic covers that trap moisture).

VII. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
(I) Usage Experience Issues
Q: Why do my knees hurt when riding, and how to fix it?

A: Common causes include: ① Improper seat height (too high causes knee overextension; too low causes over-bending); ② Hunched posture (shifts weight forward, increasing knee pressure); ③ Excessive resistance (beginners using high resistance rely on knees instead of muscles).

Solutions: Adjust the seat to ensure a 5-10° knee bend at the lowest pedal position; keep your back straight and weight on the seat; start with resistance levels 1-3 and gradually increase as muscle strength improves. If pain persists, rest for 1-2 weeks and do gentle leg stretches.

Q: Why are my hips sore after riding, and how to relieve it?

A: Soreness often stems from: ① A too-narrow seat (＜35cm) or low-density foam (＜25kg/m³) that fails to distribute pressure; ② Over-reliance on hips for support (instead of sharing weight with legs); ③ Riding too long (＞30 minutes) as a beginner.

Solutions: Add a wide memory foam seat cushion (≥40cm wide); engage leg muscles while riding to reduce hip pressure; limit initial sessions to 20 minutes and extend gradually. Relieve soreness with a 45℃ warm towel (15-20 minutes) or gentle clockwise massage.

(II) Equipment Malfunction Issues
Q: Why does the resistance of my magnetic resistance bike suddenly disappear?

A: Troubleshoot in 3 steps: ① Check magnet-flywheel distance: Open the bike’s side cover (use a screwdriver if needed) to see if the magnet bracket is misaligned. Adjust it to keep a 5-8mm gap between the magnet and flywheel—this ensures the magnetic field generates normal resistance. ② Inspect the adjustment knob cable: If the knob feels loose or unresponsive, the connecting cable may be slack or broken. Tighten the cable via the fixing screw near the knob, or replace it with a matching new cable (available from the manufacturer). ③ Clear flywheel obstructions: Dust, hair, or thread wrapped around the flywheel can block rotation and reduce resistance. Wipe the flywheel clean with a dry cloth (ensure the bike is off first to avoid injury).

Q: The LCD screen of my electromagnetic resistance bike doesn’t light up—what should I do?

A: Beyond checking the power plug and socket, try these fixes: ① Replace the fuse: Most bikes have a 10A fuse near the power port (a transparent tube with a metal wire inside). If the wire is broken, replace it with a new 10A fuse—never use a higher-amperage fuse (risks circuit damage). ② Check wire connections: Open the screen cover to inspect the flat cable linking the screen to the main unit. If it’s loose, reinsert it firmly and fasten the clip. Avoid bending the cable (prevents contact oxidation). ③ Test with a different power source: Plug the bike into another socket to rule out power supply issues. If the screen still doesn’t work, the internal circuit board may be faulty—contact professional repair personnel (do not disassemble it yourself).

(III) Training Effect Issues
Q: I ride 30 minutes every day for a month, but my weight hasn’t changed—why?

A: 3 key reasons may be: ① Insufficient intensity: Riding at resistance levels 1-3 keeps your heart rate below the "fat-burning zone" (60%-70% of maximum heart rate), so you only burn 150-200 kcal per session—too little to create a calorie deficit. ② Uncontrolled diet: Extra snacks (e.g., a cup of milk tea = ~300 kcal) can offset the calories burned from riding. ③ Monotonous exercise: Only riding fails to boost basal metabolism, leading to a weight loss plateau.

Solutions: Increase resistance to levels 5-7 to hit the fat-burning zone; add 1-2 weekly interval training sessions (30s high resistance + 1min low resistance); cut back on high-sugar/high-oil foods and track calories with an app (aim for a 300-500 kcal daily deficit); pair riding with 2 weekly leg strength workouts (squats, lunges) to build muscle (muscle burns more calories at rest).

Q: Can riding help improve my hunchback, and how to adjust my posture?

A: Yes—follow these steps: ① Riding posture adjustment: Set the handlebar height to shoulder level or slightly higher (prevents hunching to see the screen). Keep your upper body upright, retract your shoulder blades (imagine "pinching a piece of paper between them"), and tuck your chin slightly (avoids forward head posture). Grip the handlebars lightly, with elbows slightly bent (absorbs riding vibrations). ② Post-riding posture exercises: Do 10 minutes daily of:

1.Wall slides: Stand with your head, shoulders, hips, and heels against the wall for 5 minutes (trains upright posture).

2.Thoracic rotations: Sit, cross your arms over your chest, and slowly rotate your upper body left/right 10 times per side (loosens tight upper back muscles).

3.Consistency is key: Ride 3-4 times weekly for 30 minutes, and do daily posture exercises—you’ll notice straighter shoulders and reduced hunchback in 8 weeks.