3 Best Exercise Bikes Without a Screen for Home Workouts

Key Takeaways

• The SOLE B94 is the best screen-free upright bike with a 9-inch LCD console, integrated tablet holder, 20 electronic magnetic resistance levels, and a 20-pound flywheel, available for $1,099.99, saving $600 versus its touchscreen sibling (LCB).
• The SOLE R92 brings the same screen-free build to a recumbent format, with a contoured backrest, step-through frame, and identical 20-level electronic resistance, ideal for users with back pain or anyone who prefers supported positioning.
• The Schwinn IC4 offers a screen-free indoor cycling alternative at ~$899 with a heavier 40-pound flywheel and dual-sided pedals built for spin-style intensity, though it uses a manual resistance dial and ships without a free guided workout app.
• Screen-free bikes use your phone or tablet for any app you choose; SOLE+ (free), Netflix, YouTube, Peloton, Zwift, or Apple Fitness+, removing the lock-in built-in touchscreens often impose, and LCD consoles have fewer failure points and cheaper replacement parts.
• SOLE exercise bikes stand out with FREE SOLE+ App access on your own device at no ongoing subscription cost, lifetime frame warranties on both the B94 and R92, whisper-quiet electronic magnetic resistance, integrated tablet holders, and Bluetooth syncing to Apple Health, all without the $600 touchscreen markup.

What Are The Best Exercise Bikes Without a Screen in 2026?

The best exercise bikes without a screen save you $600 compared to touchscreen equivalents while delivering identical exercise capability, since the bike's job is to provide smooth resistance and your tablet's job is to provide entertainment. 

The SOLE B94 delivers high-quality upright cycling with a 9-inch LCD console and an integrated tablet holder, saving $600 compared to the touchscreen LCB. The SOLE R92 brings the same approach to a recumbent format with back support. The Schwinn IC4, at approximately $899, offers an indoor cycling alternative with a heavy 40-pound flywheel for spin enthusiasts. 

Both SOLE bikes include FREE SOLE+ App access on your own device at no ongoing subscription cost and lifetime frame warranties. This article compares all three across console design, resistance system, and what each delivers compared to the touchscreen alternatives in the same lineup. 

1. SOLE B94: Best Screen-Free Upright Bike

The B94 delivers quality upright cycling with a 9-inch LCD console and integrated tablet holder, saving $600 compared to touchscreen alternatives while providing identical exercise capability.

The SOLE B94 is the clearest example of the screen-free value proposition. The 9-inch LCD console displays every metric you need (resistance level, speed, RPM, time, distance, calories, and heart rate) in a clear, reliable format. The integrated tablet holder positions your device at an optimal viewing angle for streaming, apps, or the FREE SOLE+ guided workouts. You get the construction and resistance quality of a $1,699.99 exercise bike at $1,099.99 by using your own screen instead of a built-in one.

The 20 Eddy Current Brake (ECB) magnetic resistance levels provide smooth, quiet intensity adjustment from easy spins through challenging climbs. The 20-pound flywheel creates a consistent pedaling feel appropriate for steady-state cardio and moderate interval training. The magnetic resistance system requires essentially no maintenance and operates silently, which matters when you are listening to audio through a mounted device.

Bluetooth connectivity enables communication between the SOLE+ App and devices for workout tracking and data syncing. Pair a Bluetooth heart rate monitor for accurate heart rate data displayed on both the console and your device. Workout metrics sync to Apple Health through the app.

The cushioned gel seat and upright positioning prioritize comfort for extended sessions. The step-through frame enables easy mounting. At 101 pounds, the B94 is manageable to position while remaining stable during use.

2. SOLE R92: Best Screen-Free Recumbent Bike

The R92 provides back-supported cycling with the same screen-free approach as the B94, ideal for users needing comfortable positioning without touchscreen costs.

The SOLE R92 brings the screen-free approach to recumbent cycling. The 9-inch LCD console and integrated tablet holder match the B94's setup, while the recumbent design provides back support for users with back pain, seniors, or anyone preferring supported positioning. You get quality recumbent cycling at $600+ savings over the touchscreen recumbent alternative.

The contoured backrest supports your spine throughout workouts, enabling extended sessions without the discomfort upright bikes can create. The step-through frame makes mounting easy, which matters for users with mobility considerations who often choose recumbent designs.

The 20 ECB magnetic resistance levels and 20-pound flywheel match the B94, providing smooth, quiet operation. The recumbent pedal position opens the hip angle, reducing strain on hip flexors and lower back compared to upright positioning.

Bluetooth connectivity enables SOLE+ App integration on your mounted device. The FREE app provides guided recumbent workouts designed for the different muscle engagement patterns recumbent riding creates.

3. Schwinn IC4: Screen-Free Indoor Cycling Option

The IC4 offers spin-style cycling with a basic LCD display and a device holder for users who want athletic positioning without built-in screens.

The Schwinn IC4 offers an indoor cycling format for users who prefer aggressive, athletic positioning over upright comfort. The basic LCD console displays essential metrics while the integrated device holder accommodates phones and tablets for app-based training or entertainment.

The 40-pound flywheel creates substantial momentum that rewards consistent, powerful pedaling. The magnetic resistance system provides smooth, quiet operation with resistance adjusted via a manual dial rather than electronic buttons.

Bluetooth connectivity enables pairing with fitness apps, including Zwift and the Peloton app (subscription required), as well as various training platforms. The dual-sided pedals accommodate toe cages on one side and SPD cleats on the other.

The primary consideration is that Schwinn's app ecosystem and customer support differ from SOLE's approach. The IC4 works best for users who plan to use third-party apps rather than relying on manufacturer programming.

Note: SOLE does not manufacture or sell the Schwinn IC4. This is an independent review of a product for comparison purposes. 

Side-by-Side Comparison

When Does Screen-Free Make More Sense Than a Touchscreen?

The case for a screen-free exercise bike comes down to whether you actually want to use the built-in display or would rather hold onto $600 and use your own tablet. If your training routine already involves an iPad propped up watching Netflix, a phone running the Peloton app, or a tablet streaming Apple Fitness+, then a built-in touchscreen duplicates a screen you already own and use. 

If you genuinely value not having to mount a device and prefer everything embedded into the equipment, the touchscreen models in the same SOLE lineup (the LCB and LCR) are the better fit. Both approaches are valid, but only one applies to your specific routine. For the screen-free path, the SOLE B94 is the strongest upright option. 

Shop our bike collection today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Will I miss having a built-in touchscreen on an exercise bike?

Most users who choose screen-free bikes prefer them. Your own device offers a larger app selection, a familiar interface, and easy upgrading. The main adjustment is remembering to charge your tablet and mount it before workouts. Users who find this inconvenient may prefer built-in screens; those comfortable with device management rarely miss them.

Can I still get guided workouts without a touchscreen on my SOLE exercise bike?

Yes. The FREE SOLE+ App runs on your phone or tablet and provides the same guided workout content as the touchscreen versions deliver natively. The display method is the only difference, since the programming is identical. You can also use any other guided fitness app you prefer, including Peloton, Apple Fitness+, Zwift, or YouTube workouts.

What if my tablet goes off while using it on an exercise bike?

The bike keeps working. The LCD console continues displaying speed, resistance, time, distance, calories, and heart rate, so you can finish your session on metrics alone. Many buyers keep a charging cable near the bike specifically for this reason, since modern tablets typically last through one session but not through several back-to-back sessions.

Can an LCD console connect to fitness apps and health platforms?

Yes. Both SOLE screen-free bikes have Bluetooth that connects to the SOLE+ App on your phone or tablet, and the app automatically syncs workout data with Apple Health. Heart rate monitors pair via Bluetooth and display heart rate on both the bike's console and the app simultaneously. 

Are screen-free bikes lower quality than touchscreen models?

No. Within the same brand, screen-free and touchscreen models share identical frames, resistance systems, flywheels, and warranty coverage. The B94 and LCB have the same lifetime frame warranty. The only difference is the display, which affects price and the delivery method for features, but not exercise quality or durability.

 

Disclaimer: Products and prices mentioned in this article are accurate as of the date of publication and are subject to change. Please visit the official SOLE website for the most current information.