In this article, we will break down the pros and cons of these different types to help you find the right fit for your workspace. Beyond comparing models, we will explain the critical importance of crank length for your joint health, and we will show you exactly what a cadence sensor is so you can turn any of these bikes into a smart, trackable workout machine.
No Affiliate Links: We don't get a commission if you click a link and buy a bike. Our recommendations are based on data, not dollars.
No Manufacturer Bribes: We are not paid by Kingsmith, Flexispot, or any other brand to feature their products.
Lab-Grade Testing: We test every unit for at least a week in both home and office environments. We use professional Assioma PRO RS power pedals to measure resistance and physics models to calculate real-world calorie burn, rather than relying on the often-inflated numbers provided by the manufacturers.
Expert Scrutiny: We manually measure crank lengths, and compare decibel levels at every resistance setting to ensure your joint health and your office's quiet environment are protected.
Experienced reviewer: Our reviewer has spent hundreds of hours on different desk bikes and is a hobbyist cyclist as well.
Note that ANY desk bike can be connected to the SitZip desk cycle app.
The desk bike
The basic desk bike model is meant for upright usage, typically with a standing desk. A standing desk is required because otherwise your knees will hit the desk when pedaling. The lack of backrest forces you to mind your posture and keep it upright.
Pro's:
Feels most like riding a normal bicycle or exercise bike
Some models allow quite high wattages (200>) so for enthusiast cyclist looking to also get a real workout in their legs, this is a good option.
Con's:
Saddle gets uncomfortable after a while
You will probably still need a normal desk chair
Standing desk required
SitZip recommendations:
Deskbike.com is a Dutch brand which has sold these for a long time. They also sell a sensor that is chargable via USB-C, and offer various colors. The resistance setting is incredibly flexible and allows a wide range of difficulty, from almost nothing at all, to feeling like you are cycling uphill against the wind.
Lastly they also offer two variants depending on your height. This means that if you are very tall, Deskbike.com still has a model that will work for you. Read our in depth review here.
Under Desk Bike Pedals
The under-desk cycle is most popular amongst elderly and people rehabilitating their legs.
Pro's:
Very space efficient
Usually the cheapest option
Con's:
Pedaling will push your desk chair with wheels away from the cycle. Some people choose to attach the desk cycle to their desk chair to avoid this.
Small crank length
Range of motion is small, due to the fact that the under-desk cycle is close to the ground. A bigger range of motion is typically preferred as more muscle is used to perform the stroke.
Usually not suitable for high wattages, the range of motion and internals of these are not suitable for really giving your legs a proper workout. This model is more suitable for "staying active".
If you're reasonably tall you may still need a standing desk or the posture required to use this while at your desk will be uncomfortable.
SitZip recommendations:
DeskCycle.com is an American brand which has sold these for a long time. Read our full review here.
The desk-chair-cycle-hybrid
The desk-chair-cycle-hybrid is a very new option. Only Flexispot sells this type currently, and only in select countries.
Pro's:
You dont need both a desk chair AND a desk bike
Even when not biking, sitting on this will be comfortable
Con's:
Very hard to find data or reviews on.
Hard to find these models in most countries.
Sitzip recommendations:
We are still looking to test this model, so we offer no recommendations yet.
The comfortable desk bike
The comfortable bike chair is different from the desk bike because the saddle is typically bigger, and it has a backrest.
Pro's:
Most people experience these as more comfortable than desk bikes with a regular bike saddle
Can lean back, shift positions every once in a while
You may not need an office chair anymore.
Con's:
In some models the back rest is either too close or too far.
A standing desk is required to use this.
SitZip recommendations:
Skandika sells a version of this model. Check our review here.
The bike desk
The desk-cycle with included desk. Typically comes with a regular seat.
Pro's:
Very space efficient, especially if you don't have a standing desk or maybe even not a desk at all.
No need to buy a seperate standing desk.
If you want to keep your old desk while still having the benefit of a desk bike, you can use this to work on your laptop.
Con's:
More expensive
Heavier (due to structural elements required for the desk)
Usually a bit harder to move around than other types.
SitZip recommendations:
Kingsmith sells a desk-cycle with included desk, read our review here.
the crank length, what is it and why is it important?
Crank Length: Balancing Health and Efficiency
So what is "crank length"? Well, this length determines the size of your pedaling circle. While shorter cranks allow many desk bikes to fit neatly into compact spaces, the quality of motion is vital for your long-term health, comfort, and calorie burn.
The Ergonomic Balance
Most desk bikes utilize shorter cranks to prevent your knees from hitting the desk. But many of us will still not be able to use these bikes without using a standing desk. So while this is a clever space-saving design, it can limit full leg extension.
Joint Health: A confined pedal stroke may place unnecessary strain on knees, hips, and ankles over time.
The "Standard" Feel: Models that prioritize a standard crank length as seen in regular bicycles, such as the Kingsmith W1B, allow for a natural, circular motion.
Why Comfort Equals Results
For both weight loss and overall wellness, consistency is the goal.
Injury Prevention: A smooth, natural stroke reduces the risk of repetitive strain injuries.
Sustainable Fitness: If you are comfortable, you will pedal longer. A 60-minute low-impact session is far superior to a short, uncomfortable sprint.
Bottom Line: When selecting a desk bike, look for one that offers a natural range of motion. For most people, this will mean searching for a desk bike with a large enough crank.
The Plan
We have created a simple three-step path to turn a "dumb" bike into a smart workstation:
Equip: Attach the Garmin Cadence Sensor 2 to the desk bike’s pedal arm.
Sync: Open the SitZip app to instantly link your movement to your dashboard.
Succeed: Watch your miles and calories add up in real-time and stay motivated to hit your daily targets.
Without a dashboard to prove your progress, your initial excitement will fade; your motivation will dry up, and your bike will eventually sit unused in a corner. If you do not track your wins, your investment becomes just another abandoned habit. Don't let your effort go to waste; start recording your success.
Now let's compare the different desk bike models that are on the market!
Final Verdict: Which Desk Bike Should You Buy?
about the author, vICTOR SANNER
I’m Victor Sanner, and I lead the testing at SitZip. As a Dutch cyclist, mountain biker, and motorcyclist, I have a lifelong interest in the intersection of health and technology and everything on two wheels. My focus is applying professional cycling standards to office fitness to ensure our reviews are grounded in physics, not marketing. You can find my professional history on LinkedIn or email me at victor@sitzip.com.
