Whether you’re an avid cyclist or new to the game, you’re likely familiar with a few popular stationary exercise bikes: Peloton, Schwinn, Echelon Fit, and NordicTrack, which all use magnetic resistance. There are four other types of exercise bikes: brake-based systems, direct contact, and fan-based systems, but magnetic resistance bikes are leading the stationary exercise bike, however. So, what makes magnetic resistance the most popular? Read on to learn more.   How Magnetic Resistance Works Magnetic resistance exercise bikes use both magnetism and electricity to provide different levels of resistance. Electric currents that are passed through the magnets allow for the magnets to be more or less attractive, which is how you are able to control the resistance level. To bump up the resistance, you’ll turn the tension dial or button on the bike which, in turn, increases the current traveling through the magnets. The stronger the current, the stronger the magnetic force and the stronger the resistance.  This all wouldn’t be possible without a flywheel, though. A flywheel is a wheel that resists changes in their rotational velocity, which is the speed at which they turn. By pedaling the bike, you create the energy needed to overpower the resistance and turn the flywheel.   The Benefits of Magnetic Resistance Bikes 
  1. Smoother Ride There is no direct friction or contact between the flywheel and magnets on a magnetic resistance bike allowing for a smooth ride. 
  2. Lower Maintenance While there is a larger cost upfront with these exercise bikes compared to those that use another system, you're less likely to have to do anything beyond routine maintenance if you choose a magnetic system. This is because there isn’t wear and tear where friction would occur, so you don’t have to regularly dust and lubricate the bike. You do, however, have to tighten wires and screws every once in a while.
  3. Quiet Because there isn’t any direct contact, bikes that use magnetic resistance don’t make much noise. This makes them perfect for at-home workouts.
  The Drawbacks of Magnetic Resistance Bikes
  1. Expensive As we mentioned before, these bikes have a larger upfront cost. If you are able to save up for one, however, they’re likely worth the investment since they provide smoother, quieter rides, and don’t require a ton of maintenance. 
  2. Variation of Resistance Depending on who manufactured the bike, the levels of resistance may vary between bikes. If you own one and/or only use one brand, this might not be an issue, as you will get used to the resistance rather quickly. If you attend various different cycling classes, however, your default resistance number and the intervals between resistance may differ between studios.
  Learn About Everyday Magnetism with Apex Magnets Magnetism is at work in many things that we use on a day-to-day basis, including cabinets, electronics, and even shower curtains! To learn more about how magnets play a role in your life, follow along with our blog or subscribe to our monthly newsletter!