9 Best Exercise Bikes for Knee Rehab in Australia (2025 Physio and Buyer’s Guide)
Knee pain or post-surgery recovery doesn't have to stop you moving.
The right recumbent exercise bike lets you rebuild strength, reduce pain, and regain confidence — safely.
In this guide you'll learn why bikes are so joint-friendly, how to choose the right model, and what features actually matter for knee rehabilitation in Australia.
By the end, you'll know exactly what to buy and how to use it without flaring your knees.
Sections
- Why Exercise Bikes Are Great for Knee Rehab
- What to Look for in a Knee Rehab Bike (Buyer's Guide)
- 9 Best Exercise Bikes for Knee Rehab in Australia (2025 Guide)
- SportsArt C535R Recumbent Bike — Best for Physio Clinics & Professional Rehab
- Sole LCR Recumbent Bike — Best Overall Home Recumbent for Knee Rehab
- NordicTrack R35 Recumbent Bike — Best for Tech-Lovers & Interactive Rehab
- York RB420 Recumbent Bike — Best Value All-Rounder for Rehab
- Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike — Best Mid-Range Recumbent for Knee Pain
- Horizon Fitness 5.0R Recumbent Bike — Best for Seniors & Accessibility
- Lifespan Fitness RC-300 Recumbent Bike — Best Budget Under $1000 for Rehab
- Sole R92 Recumbent Bike — Best for Comfort & Gentle Rehab
- Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Bike — Best Budget-Friendly Option for Beginners & Seniors
- Physiotherapy Tips for Using an Exercise Bike Safely
- Will an Exercise Bike Help My Knee Condition?
- FAQs About Exercise Bikes & Knee Rehab
- Our Recommendation
Why Exercise Bikes Are Great for Knee Rehab
✅ Cycling is low-impact and predictable. That's the rehab sweet spot for irritated or healing knees.
✅ A recumbent bike keeps you seated, supported, and stable. Your legs extend forward rather than straight down, reducing load on the knee joint.
✅ The pedalling motion is cyclical and controlled. That helps restore range of motion without the start-stop jolts of walking or stairs.
✅ You can start with near-zero resistance. Then progress in tiny increments as pain settles and strength returns.
✅ Large seats and backrests provide lumbar support. That's ideal if knee pain comes with back, hip, or balance issues.
✅ Step-through frames make mounting safe and easy. No high leg swing. No awkward pivots on a tender knee.
✅ Regular cycling boosts synovial fluid circulation. Better lubrication can help stiffness and post-op morning aches.
What to Look for in a Knee Rehab Bike (Buyer's Guide)
The Quick Checklist
Fit & Accessibility
- True step-through frame
- Look for a low, open gap so you can "walk in" and sit without lifting your leg high.
- Tool-free seat slide
- You want a lever or rail that adjusts in seconds, not a bolt-and-knob ordeal.
- Correct knee angle
- At the far pedal point your knee should have a slight bend (~10–15°) — never locked.
Comfort & Support
- Wide, cushioned seat + lumbar backrest
- Pain hates pressure points.
- Choose a seat you can actually sit on for 20–30 minutes without fidgeting.
- Breathable mesh or contoured back
- Keeps you cool and supports natural spinal curves during longer rides.
- Side handlebars near the seat
- Helpful for stability when getting on/off and for light upper-body support while pedalling.
Resistance & Smoothness
- Magnetic resistance
- Quieter, smoother, and more joint-friendly than friction pads.
- Fine-grained levels
- Aim for 16–40 levels (or more).
- You want tiny jumps so progression never shocks the knee.
- Decent flywheel mass
- Heavier flywheels (e.g., 6–14 kg+) smooth the stroke and reduce "choppiness."
Stability & Capacity
- Solid frame, high max user weight
- Ratings of 130–180 kg signal stronger frames and less wobble.
- Leveling feet + transport wheels
- Stable on uneven floors; simple to reposition after use.
Console & Programs
- Clear, simple display
- Large digits for time, cadence (RPM), distance, and resistance level.
- Gentle starter programs
- Look for manual/heart-rate or recovery presets that keep effort low and steady.
- Optional app connectivity
- Nice-to-have for tracking; not essential for rehab.
- Avoid paywalls if you won't use them.
Rehab-Specific Extras
- Very light "Level 1"
- Day-one rides should feel like spinning air.
- Micro-increments at the low end
- Early rehab needs minute progressions, not leaps.
- Ergo pedal stance
- Some brands angle pedals slightly inward for knee tracking comfort.
Warranty & Support
- Strong frame warranty
- Lifetime or long-term coverage suggests durable construction.
- Australian parts/service
- Local support matters if you'll use the bike daily through rehab.
Buyer's Checklist (Copy/Paste)
- Step-through frame (yes/no)
- Seat: wide, cushioned, lumbar support (yes/no)
- Seat slide: quick lever (yes/no)
- Resistance: magnetic, ≥16 levels with very light Level 1 (yes/no)
- Flywheel: ≥6 kg for smoothness (yes/no)
- Stability: ≥130 kg capacity + floor levelers (yes/no)
- Console: clear metrics; gentle programs (yes/no)
- Warranty: strong frame + local support (yes/no)
9 Best Exercise Bikes for Knee Rehab in Australia: Our Top Picks
1. SportsArt C535R Recumbent Bike
Best for Physio Clinics & Professional Rehab
This is the gold standard in physiotherapy clinics, built for comfort, accessibility, and rehab progression.
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★
9.5 /10
Prime Physio Essentials Rating
The SportsArt C535R is a clinic-grade recumbent, built specifically for rehab environments where safety and precision matter most. Its 40 resistance levels allow ultra-fine control, making it ideal for gradual progression after surgery or for seniors needing extremely gentle starts.
This bike solves the problem of accessibility with a wide step-through frame and a ventilated, highly adjustable seat that adapts to users with mobility limits. It's best for physio clinics or individuals who want the same high-quality equipment trusted by rehabilitation professionals.
We give it a 9.5/10 because it is the most adjustable and rehab-focused bike, but its clinic-level cost makes it unrealistic for many home users.
| Pros | Cons |
| Ultra-adjustable ComfortDri™ seat with lumbar support. | Very heavy and hard to move |
| 40 resistance levels for micro progression. | Expensive, clinic-level pricing. |
| Step-through design for easy access. | No entertainment features. |
| Sturdy frame with 180 kg capacity. | Overkill for casual home users. |
2. Sole LCR Recumbent Bike
Best Overall Home Recumbent for Knee Rehab
A light commercial model with comfort, durability, and a smooth ride — ideal for serious home rehab.
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★
9 /10
Prime Physio Essentials Rating
The Sole LCR is chosen for its perfect blend of comfort, commercial-grade stability, and smooth resistance, all in a home-friendly package. Its heavy flywheel and 40 levels of magnetic resistance provide a joint-friendly ride that scales from rehab to advanced fitness.
It solves the problem of stability and longevity — no wobble, no flimsy build, just a rock-solid frame that supports up to 158 kg. Best for home users who want one bike that covers both gentle rehab and long-term daily cardio.
We give it a 9/10 because it provides a long-lasting, commercial-grade bike that balances comfort and strength perfectly for home rehab.
| Pros | Cons |
| Cushioned, oversized seat with lumbar mesh back. | Heavy at nearly 70 kg. |
| 14 kg flywheel with 40 smooth resistance levels. | Premium price. |
| Step-through frame and easy adjustments. | Basic LCD screen, not a touchscreen. |
| 158 kg user weight capacity. | Assembly requires two people. |
3. NordicTrack R35 Recumbent Bike
Best for Tech-Lovers & Interactive Rehab
A high-end recumbent with a large touchscreen, iFit classes, and auto-adjusting resistance.
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★
8.5 /10
Prime Physio Essentials Rating
The NordicTrack R35 stands out for its interactive iFit platform with a 14" HD touchscreen that keeps rehab engaging. It automatically adjusts resistance during classes or scenic rides, removing the guesswork from progression.
This bike solves the problem of motivation — it makes rehab less repetitive with structured, guided sessions. It's best for tech-savvy rehabbers who want extra stimulation and accountability while recovering.
We give it a 8.5/10 because it is engaging and interactive with iFit, but ongoing subscription costs and bulky size may limit appeal.
| Pros | Cons |
| 14" HD touchscreen with iFit workouts. | Requires iFit subscription for full use. |
| Oversized cushioned seat with lumbar support. | Bulky and heavy at 87 kg. |
| 26 smooth magnetic resistance levels. | Pricey compared to mid-range options. |
| Very stable frame, 158 kg capacity. | Handlebars not horizontally adjustable. |
4. York RB420 Recumbent Bike
Best Value All-Rounder for Rehab
A mid-range model with impressive features and a smooth 12 kg flywheel at an affordable price.
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★
8.5 /10
Prime Physio Essentials Rating
The York RB420 is a mid-range machine that punches above its weight with a 12 kg flywheel and 32 resistance levels. It provides smooth pedalling and strong build quality at a price most Australians will find reasonable.
It solves the problem of "cheap bikes that don't last" by offering durability and a lifetime frame warranty without breaking the bank. Best for budget-conscious buyers who still want a robust, rehab-ready machine for consistent use.
We give it a 8.5/10 because it has outstanding value with strong resistance range and durability, ideal for rehab without overspending.
| Pros | Cons |
| 32 resistance levels with fine adjustments. | No Bluetooth or HR strap compatibility. |
| Sturdy 150 kg weight capacity. | Seat backrest small for taller users. |
| Large backlit LCD with 17 programs. | Console is basic compared to others. |
| Lifetime frame warranty. | Assembly can be time-consuming. |
5. Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike
Best Mid-Range Recumbent for Knee Pain
A global favourite, packed with programs and proven to help many after knee replacement surgery.
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★
8 /10
Prime Physio Essentials Rating
The Schwinn 270 is one of the world's most popular recumbents, with thousands of positive reviews from seniors and post-surgery patients. It includes 29 built-in programs, heart-rate monitoring, and 25 resistance levels, which means more structure for those who need guidance.
It solves the problem of variety — many users get bored with rehab, but the programs give you a plan to follow each time. Best for rehabbers who value proven results and want an easy-to-use, feature-rich machine at a fair price.
We give it a 8/10 because it has a proven track record with thousands of rehab success stories, though it feels slightly dated compared to newer bikes.
| Pros | Cons |
| 25 resistance levels for progression. | Limited to 136 kg capacity. |
| Ventilated seat with lumbar curve. | Console design feels dated. |
| 29 workout programs including HR control. | HR chest strap not included. |
| Bluetooth connectivity and app sync. | Seat back angle fixed. |
6. Horizon Fitness 5.0R Recumbent Bike
Best for Seniors & Accessibility
Simple, comfortable, and user-friendly, with 100 resistance levels for gradual rehab progression.
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★
8.5 /10
Prime Physio Essentials Rating
The Horizon 5.0R is built around accessibility, with one of the lowest step-through frames on the market. Its 100 micro resistance levels mean users can progress at their own pace with tiny, joint-safe increments.
It solves the problem of limited mobility by making mounting effortless and progression non-intimidating. Best for seniors or post-op patients who want a simple, confidence-boosting recumbent that won't overwhelm them.
We give it a 8.5/10 because it is perfect for seniors thanks to its very low step-through and 100 micro resistance levels, though lighter flywheel reduces smoothness.
| Pros | Cons |
| Extra-low step-through frame. | Basic LCD console. |
| 100 micro resistance levels. | Lighter flywheel. |
| Lightweight and easy to move. | No entertainment features. |
| Lifetime frame warranty. | Limited adjustability of backrest. |
7. Lifespan Fitness RC-300 Recumbent Bike
Best Budget Under $1000 for Rehab
Affordable and reliable, with a lumbar mesh backrest and smooth ride — ideal for home rehab on a budget.
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★
7.5 /10
Prime Physio Essentials Rating
The Lifespan RC-300 offers the essentials — 16 resistance levels, a mesh lumbar backrest, and 12 built-in programs — at a very affordable price. Despite its lower cost, it still supports up to 150 kg and provides a smooth, quiet ride.
It solves the problem of affordability without sacrificing safety, making it accessible for home users who can't justify a premium bike. Best for those needing a rehab-friendly entry point with enough adjustability for everyday use.
We give it a 7.5/10 because it is a strong budget option with lumbar mesh support, but limited flywheel weight makes it less smooth for long-term use.
| Pros | Cons |
| 16 magnetic resistance levels. | 6 kg flywheel is light. |
| Mesh backrest with lumbar support. | Console not backlit. |
| Compact and transportable. | Seat back angle fixed. |
| Bluetooth app connectivity + programs. | Resistance increments larger at high end. |
8. Sole R92 Recumbent Bike
Best for Comfort & Gentle Rehab
Engineered for injury-free workouts with an oversized seat and ergonomic pedal design.
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★
9 /10
Prime Physio Essentials Rating
The Sole R92 is designed for "injury-free workouts," with oversized seat padding and an ergonomic pedal angle that reduces joint stress. It balances stability and comfort, with a quiet frame and a seat tailored for lumbar support.
It solves the problem of pain during exercise by providing one of the most forgiving, comfortable rides on the market. Best for users with sensitive knees, arthritis, or those who prioritise comfort above all else during rehab.
We give it a 9/10 because it is engineered for joint comfort with ergonomic pedals and oversized seat, making it excellent for sensitive knees.
| Pros | Cons |
| Ergonomic pedals with 2° inward tilt. | Only 20 resistance levels. |
| Oversized cushioned seat with lumbar support. | Console is LCD, not touchscreen. |
| Quiet and stable 61 kg frame. | Heavy and bulky footprint |
| Excellent warranty (lifetime frame). | Mid-to-high price point. |
9. Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Bike
Best Budget-Friendly Option for Beginners & Seniors
A simple, no-frills bike that's quiet, affordable, and proven to help seniors with knee rehab.
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★
7 /10
Prime Physio Essentials Rating
The Marcy ME-709 is a no-frills, ultra-affordable recumbent that gets the basics right: step-through design, padded seat, and 8 quiet resistance levels. It's proven popular among seniors who want to stay moving without complexity.
It solves the problem of accessibility on a tight budget, offering a safe way to exercise at home without over-spending. Best for beginners, older adults, or those who just want a simple tool to keep their knees mobile.
We give it a 7/10 because it is ultra-affordable and simple for beginners, but lacks adjustability and features for more serious rehab needs.
| Pros | Cons |
| Extremely affordable entry-level price. | Only 8 resistance levels. |
| Quiet magnetic resistance. | Max capacity 110 kg. |
| Lightweight and compact. | No HR monitoring. |
| Thousands of positive rehab success stories. | Short warranty period. |
Physiotherapy Tips for Using an Exercise Bike Safely
Using an exercise bike for knee rehab is only effective if you set it up and ride correctly. Here are some physiotherapist-approved tips to help you get the best results.
- Check with your doctor or physio first. Get clearance before starting, especially if you've had surgery.
- Set your seat correctly. Your knee should have a slight bend (10–15°) at the pedal's furthest point.
- Start with no resistance. Begin with the lightest setting for pain-free motion.
- Keep your movement smooth. Pedal in circles, not just pressing down with your quads.
- Increase slowly. Add time or resistance gradually — never both at once.
- Listen to your body. Stop if you feel sharp pain, swelling, or instability.
Disclaimer:
The information in this article is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your health or rehabilitation needs.
Will an Exercise Bike Help My Knee Condition?
One of the biggest worries is: "Will this really work for my knee issue?" The short answer is yes, for most conditions — but how you use the bike matters.
- Arthritis: Cycling is proven to reduce pain and stiffness by keeping joints lubricated. Low resistance, regular rides are best.
- Post-surgery (knee replacement, ACL, meniscus): Bikes restore range of motion early and help rebuild muscle strength safely.
- Chronic pain: Recumbent bikes reduce load compared to walking or stairs, making them ideal for long-term mobility.
- Balance issues: The seated, supported position means you can exercise without risk of falling.
Every knee is different, but exercise bikes are widely used in physiotherapy because they're one of the safest, most controlled rehab tools available.
FAQs About Exercise Bikes & Knee Rehab
Are recumbent bikes better than upright bikes?
Yes, recumbents provide more support, easier access, and less joint load — making them safer for most knee rehab cases.
How soon after knee surgery can I cycle?
Often within 1–2 weeks, starting with gentle rocking motions. Always follow your surgeon or physiotherapist's timeline.
How long should I ride each day?
Begin with 5–10 minutes at the lightest setting. Gradually build to 20–30 minutes as your knee improves.
Can cycling make my knee pain worse?
It shouldn't — if it does, your setup may be wrong, or resistance too high. Pain is a signal to stop and reset.
Do I need a physio-grade bike?
Not always. Higher-end models offer smoother resistance and more adjustability, but budget recumbents can still work well for home rehab.
Our Recommendation
Recumbent bikes are the best choice for most Australians with knee issues. They combine support, safety, and low-impact movement in one accessible package.
If you want premium comfort and longevity, we recommend the Sole LCR or Sole R92. For outstanding value, the York RB420 or Lifespan RC-300 are great choices.
Explore our full recumbent bike collection for more details and specifications, so you can find the best bike for your needs.
Conclusion
Rehabbing your knee doesn't have to be overwhelming. With the right recumbent bike, you can reduce pain, rebuild strength, and regain confidence in daily movement.
Ready to get started?
- Browse our Recumbent Bike Collection here.
- Need a formal NDIS quote? Request one here
- Not sure which bike is right for you? Contact us — we'll help you choose with expert advice.
Your knees deserve the best chance at recovery — and we'll help you every step of the way.
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