The Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike is a budget-friendly exercise bike that has some handy features. These include fore and aft adjustability, adjustable handles, variable resistance and a monitor for viewing workout stats.
This model also has a higher user weight capacity than most exercise bikes in its price range, so it will suit a broad spectrum of people.
Also going by the name of the Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike and the Marcy Recumbent Mag Cycle, it is one of the most popular fitness aids of its type.
In this review, we will cover the benefits of a recumbent bike, along with the specs, pros, and cons of this particular model.
Why Buy a Recumbent Bike?
A recumbent bike is an excellent exercise option for anyone who loves cycling but finds it stressful on their joints. It offers all of the benefits of cycling on a regular street or upright stationary bike, along with the added advantage of its pedals being only slightly below seat level. This positioning means that the cyclist’s legs are extended to the front rather than beneath their body as they pedal, so less stress is placed on the knees, ankles, and back.
There are numerous brands and models of recumbent exercise bike. One in the lower price bracket that has proven to be consistently popular with purchasers is the Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike, which we look at below.
Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike Specs
Dimensions – The Marcy Me-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike measures 55.5″ (L) x 24.5″ (W) x 38″ (H)
Seat to pedal – The seat to pedal distance can be adjusted to between 26″ and 33″
Weight – It weighs 61lbs.
User weight limit – The recommended upper user weight limit for this model is 300 pounds. Far heavier people claim to have used it without a problem, but it’s wise to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Batteries – The monitor requires 2 x AA batteries. These are not included.
Color – This model comes in a trendy Black/Gray/Copper combination.
Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike Key Features
- Resistance
The Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike has 8 resistance levels which are accessible at the turn of a knob. 
- Monitor
An oversized screen allows for easy monitoring of stats including Time, Speed, Distance and Calories Burned during workouts.
- Adjustable seat
An adjustable seat (seat to pedal distance) accommodates users from under 5 feet tall, through to over 6 feet tall. 
- Counterbalanced pedals
Counterbalanced pedals provide excellent foot support and enable a forward or reverse cycling motion.
- Adjustable handles & foot straps
Adjustable handles and foot straps add to the comfort and safety of Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike workouts.
- Transport wheels
Built-in transport wheels enable the Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike to be easily moved, if required.
Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike Infomercial
Marcy Recumbent Mag Cycle Bike Pros
- Low price
The Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike is one of the best quality recumbent bikes 
you will find for the price.
- Small footprint
While not as compact as an upright bike, this Marcy stationary bike has a smaller footprint than most recumbent models. This makes it more suitable than most for anyone with limited space.
- Variable resistance
Variable resistance makes the bike a viable option for both new and more experienced exercisers. This feature also enables the intensity of workouts to be increased over time, as the cyclist’s fitness improves.
- Sturdy and well-constructed
Heavier users can safely use the Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike without fear of it tipping over.
- Stable
The bike stays grounded, even during fast workouts performed at high speed.
- Quiet and smooth
Magnetic resistance allows for smooth, almost silent sessions, with easy transitioning between resistance levels.
- Easy, wide access
Getting onto and off the seat is easy. You can use the armrests for support while lowering yourself onto or alighting from the seat. A 21 1/2″ gap between them allows access for larger built people. If you need more room, you can remove the armrests.
- Adjustable seat
An adjustable seat means the Marcy Recumbent Mag Cycle can be customized to accommodate not just you, but also others in your household who wish to use it. The seat is 19 inches above floor level, making it ideal for anyone who is lacking in flexibility or unsteady on their feet.
- Easy assembly
Assembling the Marcy Recumbent Mag Cycle takes about one hour, tops. The tools needed for this are included.
- Warranty
The Marcy Recumbent Mag Cycle comes with a 2-year warranty for its frame.
Marcy Recumbent Mag Cycle Bike Cons
- Seat comfort
A firmly padded seat and ergonomically angled back provide quite a comfortable workout platform. However, the Marcy Recumbent Mag Cycle doesn’t have as much padding as some more expensive bikes.
Many owners have stated that they use the bike for thirty minutes or more at a stretch without a problem. Others have put a cushion or towel on the seat for extra padding or bought a bicycle seat cover.
- Backrest position
The backrest of the Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike screws into place, so it is not adjustable. It will still suit people of most heights. Anyone under 5 feet tall may have to put a pillow against the backrest to enable them to reach the pedals comfortably.
- No workout programs
This model doesn’t have any preset workout programs, but this does not prevent it from providing an effective workout.
- No heart rate monitor
The Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike doesn’t come with a heart rate monitor. If you want to use one with the bike, you will need to purchase it at an extra cost.
- Monitor installation
Wiring up the monitor is a little fiddly. A longer screwdriver than the one provided, or a bent coat hanger or piece of wire, will facilitate the task.
Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike Summary
Coming with variable resistance, the Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike 
is suitable for cyclists of most fitness levels, including first-timers and those with some experience. Very experienced cyclists may require a model capable of providing more challenging workouts.
Variable resistance will enable you to increase the challenge of your workouts, so you don’t hit a plateau. A further benefit is that people of differing fitness levels will be able to share the bike.
The bike’s easy to access seat can be adjusted to suit the individual’s preference. Being able to customize it means your workouts will be more comfortable. It also makes the bike suitable for people of just about any height.
Able to support users weighing up to 300 pounds, heavier purchasers have left positive feedback for the Marcy Recumbent Bike. I would, however, recommend that anyone over the recommended weight limit consider a different model.
Having magnetic resistance, the Marcy Recumbent Mag Cycle delivers a smooth and exceptionally quiet ride. Being recumbent, it will be particularly appreciated by those whose fitness and weight loss efforts have been hindered by pain, mobility issues, or injury.
While some purchasers said they would like the seat to have more padding, most are happy with it as is and find it to be comfortable.
The Marcy Recumbent Mag Cycle doesn’t have any preset workout programs, but it is capable of providing as good a workout as some far more expensive models which come with a range of programs and accessories that some purchasers won’t ever get around to using.
This model does not come with a heart rate monitor. If you would like to use one in conjunction with your Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike, there are various brands and models available that will suit.
With excellent feedback and reviews from many satisfied customers, if you would like to experience the benefits a stationary exercise bike can provide, the Marcy ME-709 Recumbent Exercise Bike would be a great purchase.
Not the bike for you? Click here to read reviews of other popular recumbent bikes
