In these times of economic uncertainty (did anyone mention inflation yet?!), we’re all on bit of a mission to save some of those hard-earned dollars. And for those of you hunting for a decent stationary bike trainer at a very decent price, we know that some of the more expensive trainers out there might leave you – and your wallet – a little frustrated. They’re great trainers of course, but not cheap.
Which is why we decided to create this post, in order to round up the three best trainers on the market – all for less than $90! In fact, if you’re lucky and shopping on the right day (unfortunately we don’t have control over the prices!), some of these trainers can be snapped up for around $50-60. Which, we have to say, is a mighty fine deal, as any one of these trainers will do more than just an OK job!
OK, so here they are, the THREE best stationary trainers for less than $90…
The Topselling Unisky Bike Trainer
When affordability and quiet efficiency are the name of the game, it’s no wonder that this trainer from Unisky is selling like hotcakes on Amazon! This trainer transforms your bike into an effective indoor cycling machine, so you can wave goodbye to your gym membership if fitness is what you’re after!
The magnet-induced resistance is designed for efficiency and quiet performance, though it does have to be said that it does generate some noise; particularly when it is used with a mountain bike with those knobbly tires (we always recommend putting on a training slick for ultimate noise reduction).
The trainer has a sturdy frame made of heavy-duty steel that easily folds to a compact size for portability and easy storage. You can keep it under your bed or stow it in your car when you travel. It also suits the training requirements of most average bikers since it has SIX resistance levels that you can adjust by a remote controller (that is easily attached to your handlebars). You can use it with road and mountain bikes fitted with 26” – 28″ and 700c wheels (and some reviewers also mention it is suitable for 29 inchers). More importantly, the sturdy frame is known to be super strong, so if you’re on the large side, this trainer should take you OK.
By the way, there are THREE colors available, but the black and yellow versions are slightly more expensive (add another $20), so if you’re on a tight budget and can live with the green version, you should stay under $80.
All in all, this bike trainer is a great investment and has gotten a ton of good reviews online, especially online at stores like Amazon. For the latest discounts and reviews on this Unisky trainer, click HERE.
Another great budget option: the RAD Cycle Portable Trainer
Keeping fit the whole year round, particularly during the cold, wet winter months, is not going to be a problem anymore if you have an indoor trainer like the RAD Cycle Portable trainer!
This affordable stationary trainer combines durability, stability, and portability in its design and construction. And although the trainer generates some noise as you pedal, it will give you a smooth ride with variable resistance which is easily adjusted by shifting the gears of your bike.
It also has extra wide legs that provide maximum support and stability for you and your bike. Even better, the feet cups can be rotated to find the best fit when your floor is uneven. Its steel frame is light yet durable, and can be folded into a compact size when you travel. Setting it up is also easy (don’t miss this video if you need further help in setting up your trainer, whatever model you choose); all you need to do is unfold the frame and ensure the legs are sturdy and positioned well on the floor. Then just insert the rear skewer that comes with the trainer to fix the rear wheel of your bike to the trainer.
The magnets embedded in the flywheel induce the resistance that creates drag on the rear wheel. It gives a smooth and (almost) noiseless ride with sufficient resistance to develop strength in your leg muscles. And with its robust construction and use of lightweight steel, rest assured this one should be able to take many, many training sessions.
A great option to consider – read our full review here.
Last – but definitely not least – the super-budget Bike Lane Pro Trainer
The budget-friendly Bike Lane Pro Trainer is another great option for those with wallets that have shrunk over recent times…
With its robust construction, durability, and affordable price, many bikers will find this trainer a great investment, with Bike Lane a decent name and brand in the stationary trainer world. When riding outdoors over the winter months becomes impossible, this is a great asset to have tucked away under your bed or in the cupboard (yes, it folds away neatly and flatly, just like an ironing board).
The trainer has seven levels of resistance that are induced by rotating magnets in its 850-gram machined steel flywheel, giving you a quiet and smooth ride. You can adjust the resistance level using the resistance controller, or by shifting the gears on your bike. The package comes with a Riser Block (typically priced around $15-20), which will hold your front wheel steady and level your bike for a natural ride. And you won’t need to worry too much about family and neighbors, because this trainer does a great job at keeping the noise levels down.
The sturdy materials and robust construction of the Bike Lane Pro Trainer make it durable, while its four legs and wide frame ensure stability. It fits road bikes with 700cc wheels and mountain bikes with 26-inch wheels. It folds into a compact form similar to an ironing board so you can easily store it or stow it in your car.
A great option, and very popular on Amazon. Read our full review here.
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There you have it, the best 3 cheapest stationary bike stands on the market today – no excuses, eh?!
If you’re looking for more decent trainers and not sure what to buy, you might want to check out our Bestsellers of 2024 for a great guide on the best models currently out there.
