Step-Through vs. Step-Over Exercise Bikes
Exercise bikes come in various sizes and shapes, with some designed to mimic the actual road and trail conditions during the cardio exercises, with others just intended to provide safe but thorough cardio sessions.
Although exercise bikes can be classified in many ways, they are often classified according to their frame construction as Step-Through and Step-Over exercise bikes. Let's find out more about them and their similarities and differences...
Published: March 24, 2023.
Home Exercise Bikes
Home exercise bikes usually feature adjustable seats, handlebars, and resistance levels, allowing users to customize their workout to their specific fitness level and goals.
They also often come equipped with a console that displays workout data such as distance, speed, time, and calories burned, making it easy to track progress and stay motivated.
Home exercise bikes come in several frame shapes and constructions, each one having its own pros and cons.
What is a Step-Through Exercise Bike
A step-through exercise bike is a type of stationary bike designed with a low and open frame that allows users to easily step through the bike and sit down without having to lift their legs over the high crossbar found on traditional bicycles.
This makes it particularly useful for people who may have mobility issues, such as seniors or those recovering from injuries, as well as for individuals who prefer a more comfortable and accessible workout experience.
Overall, step-through exercise bikes provide a low-impact cardiovascular workout that can help improve overall fitness and health while also being more accessible and user-friendly than other types of exercise bikes.
Similarly, step-through road bikes are becoming more popular, and many manufacturers now offer a range of models with different features and specifications to suit various riding styles and preferences. Some step-through road bikes are designed for commuting or leisure riding, while others are built for speed and performance.
Step-through bikes are generally considered safer than step-over bikes since they are much easier to get off the bike. But, they are also somewhat heavier for the same user weight since they lack the crossbar (top bar) found on step-over bikes.
Some of the most popular Step-Through exercise bikes are recumbent bikes, which are very easy to get on and off and offer much better support for the user's back.
Overall, step-through road bikes can be a great choice for riders who want a comfortable and easy-to-ride bike that allows them to enjoy the benefits of cycling without any unnecessary physical strain or discomfort.
What is a Step-Over Exercise Bike
A Step-Over Exercise bike is a traditional exercise bike that features a high crossbar or top tube - the rider needs to swing their leg over the frame to mount the bike. This can be challenging for some riders, particularly those who lack mobility, balance, or flexibility.
Thanks to the crossbar, Step-Over bikes are much sturdier for the same weight and feature excellent frame durability. Such diamond or triangular frame is very often found in road bikes, especially those that require very strong but lightweight frames and for off-road trail cycling.
However, due to the crossbar, heavy rides may have issues getting on and off such bikes. Also, riding such road bikes in extreme riding conditions is far from being safe since the rider can get entangled in the frame while trying to get off the bike as quickly as possible.
V-Shape Exercise Bikes With Low Crossbar
A very common frame shape in home exercise bikes is a V-shaped frame with a low crossbar - such bikes are not true Step-Trough bikes, but they nonetheless allow the users to step with one leg into the bike without raising the leg very much.
Many home exercise spinning bikes feature a V-shape frame with the front spinning wheel, ensuring compact and lightweight construction and easy getting On and Off the bike.
Long Story Short: Which frame type is the best for you depends on your personal needs and preferences, but also current health - injured, elderly and heavier users should opt for recumbent or similar Step-Thorugh exercise bikes.
If you are preparing yourself for a road race or any similar event, having a good Step-Over exercise bike with Internet connectivity and Google Maps is an absolute necessity, especially during bad weather and when preparing for road races where riding a bike is not optional, except on the race day.
