In the event you spend your workday at a desk, chances are you’ll be searching for a easy approach so as to add extra exercise to your every day routine. Look no additional than the under-desk bike, a small however mighty machine that gives a number of well being advantages, together with supporting hip and knee mobility, growing circulation, and burning energy, says Theresa Marko, PT, DPT, MS, a board-certified orthopedic scientific specialist. These compact, office-friendly bikes slide beneath your desk so you possibly can pedal whilst you work, which is an effective way so as to add further motion to your day, says Latoya Julce, a licensed private coach and teacher at 305 Health.
To search out one of the best under-desk bikes available on the market at this time, we consulted well being and health consultants for his or her recommendation on learn how to safely use these machines and which key options to search for when selecting one. Then, we in contrast dozens of prime choices and examined 33 under-desk bikes throughout our typical workday over 4 weeks. When testing under-desk bikes, we consider each for ease of setup, efficiency, options, and worth. We additionally had a biking and triathlon coach from our Evaluation Board verify this text for accuracy concerning learn how to correctly use and consider under-desk bikes.
Key Specs
Type: Bike | Weight: 23 kilos | Resistance Ranges: Eight | Options: Adjustable top, detachable show, Apple Watch and Fitbit appropriate | Our Total Score: 4.8/5
Who It is For
Greatest for individuals who like a easy setup that will not disturb their co-workers throughout Zoom conferences
Why We Love It
Selecting a quiet under-desk bike is important for those who plan on utilizing it throughout calls or within the workplace. DeskCycle’s 2 Below Desk Bike is whisper quiet, tremendous easy, and reliably secure—making it a straightforward selection for our greatest general choose. It has eight resistance ranges that enhance regularly with the straightforward flip of a knob that’s simple to show whilst you’re pedaling. We additionally just like the streamlined look of the bike and that it is appropriate with Fitbit and Apple Watch by way of Bluetooth, permitting us to higher monitor our exercises and energy burned.
This bike does not come absolutely assembled. Nevertheless, it solely took us round quarter-hour to arrange throughout testing. All the things was included within the bundle, and we had no bother following the detailed instructions. We additionally respect that the LCD show might be faraway from its house on the bike and positioned on our desk. This lets us simply view vital stats, resembling distance traveled, rotations per minute, energy burned, and extra whereas working.
Potential Flaws
- When connected to the bike, the LCD show is positioned too far again to view whereas sitting at a desk.
- The size of the bike could make it too cumbersome to suit beneath a small desk.
Most Invaluable Perception
“The flexibility to simply modify the resistance made it versatile for various exercises, and the graceful transition between ranges added to the general effectiveness and comfort of the bike.” — Mathieu Jean-Lubin, Verywell Match product tester
Key Specs
Type: Bike | Weight: 75 kilos | Resistance Ranges: Eight | Options: Adjustable desk and seat place, wheels for simple portability, cup holder | Our Total Score: 4.7/5
Who It is For
Greatest for customers who do business from home and need a compact, simply adjustable bike that additionally doubles as a standing desk.
Why We Love It
Flexispot’s Residence Workplace Cycle Desk Bike includes a distinctive, two-in-one design—it features as an train bike and a standing desk. We particularly respect its sturdiness and adjustability, as each the bike seat and desk really feel strong and might be simply adjusted to suit every consumer’s wants. Throughout testing, it supplied a easy and really quiet journey. We may simply use it throughout a gathering with out anybody listening to it. Regardless of the added characteristic of the desk, the compact design suits comfortably within the nook of a room and is a breeze to maneuver, because of the wheels on its base.
This bike took us beneath eight minutes to assemble, however we did notice some problem when carrying the packaged product upstairs. It provides a handy workspace and an excellent exercise, geared up with a cup holder, a big desk, adjustable resistance ranges, and a battery-powered tracker. We additionally love utilizing the aspect reverse the seat as a standing desk for much more motion throughout our workday.
Potential Flaws
- Throughout testing, we seen that the seat felt a bit uncomfortable at first, however over time, it turned extra comfy to make use of for as much as half-hour.
- Whereas this product provides some nice options, it is likely one of the pricier choices on our checklist.
Most Invaluable Perception
“I really like that I can stand on the alternative finish of the seat and lift the worktop excessive sufficient to make use of it as a standing desk as nicely.” —Shannon Bauer, Verywell Match product tester
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Light-weight, secure design
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Foldable for handy storage
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Fast and simple setup
Key Specs
Type: Bike | Weight: 5 kilos | Resistance Ranges: Not listed (adjustable knob) | Options: LCD show | Our Total Score: 4.2/5
Who It is For
Greatest for customers who need a fundamental under-desk bike that’s moveable, extra reasonably priced, and a breeze to arrange and retailer.
Why We Love It
In the event you’re searching for a starter under-desk bike or desire a budget-friendly possibility, Vaunn Medical’s Below Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser is a good selection. We respect the bike’s light-weight design and foldable legs for simple portability and storage. We additionally just like the LCD display screen, which tracks helpful metrics like time and revolutions per minute. Plus, there is a helpful strap to safe the bike to your chair for added stability.
Throughout testing, we seen that the setup course of was seamless and that the bike got here nearly solely assembled. The bike’s large base makes it really feel very secure throughout use, however it took us a few minutes to search out essentially the most comfy place. We additionally like how simple it’s to regulate its resistance. All we needed to do was flip the knob to extend or lower the depth stage.
Potential Flaws
- This bike is a bit of noisier than different choices on our checklist, so it might not work for many who need to use an under-desk bike throughout calls.
- The bike’s movement is not as easy as others on our checklist. Nevertheless, for the value and high quality, we nonetheless assume it is an excellent budget-friendly possibility.
Most Invaluable Perception
“For the value, I may see this being an excellent entry-level possibility for somebody who needs to check out an under-desk bike. It’s extremely light-weight and simply moveable.” —Isabella Broggini, NASM-CPT, affiliate editorial director and Verywell Match product tester
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Feels secure, even throughout sooner motion
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Ahead or backward stride movement
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Huge, textured pedals provide safe grip
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Not as comfy to make use of standing up
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LCD show is darkish, making it troublesome to learn
Key Specs
Type: Elliptical | Weight: 24 kilos | Resistance Ranges: Not listed (adjustable knob) | Options: Appropriate app, LCD show | Our Total Score: 4.3/5
Who It is For
Greatest for customers who need a sturdy, secure under-desk bike that works with a appropriate app that gives meeting assist, audio-based exercises, and extra.
Why We Love It
Stamina’s InMotion Elliptical feels easy and durable throughout use and provides simply adjustable resistance by way of a easy flip knob. The machine feels well-made and sturdy because of its metal elements, and it additionally is available in a number of colour choices. One in every of our favourite facets of this product is its compatibility with the müüv sensible audio teaching app, which provides an meeting information video, customized audio exercises, and integration with iHeartRadio.
We like that we will monitor vital metrics on the LCD show, resembling whole strides, train time, and energy burned. We additionally like that the pedals are large and textured, comfortably becoming our toes and offering a safe grip as we pedal. We will pedal ahead or backward, a pleasant characteristic not all under-desk bikes provide. This mini elliptical feels very secure and by no means strikes whereas we’re utilizing it, even after we pedal sooner.
Potential Flaws
- Whereas the producer states that you should use this elliptical machine standing upright, we felt uncomfortable and unstable doing so and do not suggest utilizing it this fashion.
- Though the LCD show offers useful metrics, the display screen is a bit darkish, which makes it tougher to learn.
Most Invaluable Perception
“This elliptical bike was simple to assemble, simple to make use of, and cozy, and it supported each toes solely. I used this each day whereas working at house and plan to proceed doing so.” —Katrina Cossey, Verywell Match product tester
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Comfy, giant pedals
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Eight resistance ranges
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Carry deal with for simple portability
Key Specs
Type: Elliptical | Weight: 30 kilos | Resistance Ranges: Eight | Options: Detachable LCD show, Fitbit- and Apple Watch-compatible, carry deal with | Our Total Score: 4.3/5
Who It is For
Greatest for customers who need an exceptionally quiet elliptical-style exerciser that provides eight resistance ranges and simple portability.
Why We Love It
DeskCycle’s Ellipse Below Desk Elliptical was the most effective elliptical-style machines we examined. The machine consists of all the mandatory instruments required for fast and simple meeting, which took us beneath ten minutes to finish. After we used this machine, it was quiet and cozy sufficient that we pedaled for over 90 minutes with out even realizing it. Plus, it provides eight resistance ranges which might be simple to regulate based mostly on our every day health targets.
Throughout testing, we famous that the elliptical match completely beneath our desk with out requiring any chair changes and that its carry deal with made it simpler to maneuver round and retailer. We like that the giant pedals permit us to alter our foot place and that they’ll accommodate these with bigger toes. Like DeskCycle’s Below Desk Bike, the model’s under-desk elliptical additionally has a detachable LCD show that may be considered out of your desk for extra handy metrics monitoring. Whereas the tracker does not retailer stats, the producer states the gadget is appropriate with Fitbit and Apple Watch, making monitoring knowledge over time a breeze.
Potential Flaws
- The LCD show is on the smaller aspect and is not backlit, making it tougher to learn.
- This machine is likely one of the pricier ones on our checklist; nevertheless, we expect its options and high quality make it well worth the funding.
Most Invaluable Perception
“I used this under-desk elliptical throughout a Zoom assembly, and after I used to be finished, I requested the individual on the opposite finish if she may hear it or see my motion. She mentioned she had no thought I used to be even utilizing it!” —Hildara Araya, Verywell Match product tester
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Clean pedaling
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Intuitive controls
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Carry deal with
Key Specs
Type: Elliptical | Weight: 22 kilos | Resistance Ranges: Eight | Options: LCD show, carry deal with | Our Total Score: 4/5
Who It is For
Greatest for entry-level customers who need an at-home elliptical exercise with no huge dedication.
Why We Love It
If you wish to get some cardio at house however haven’t got the house (or price range) for a full-size elliptical machine, Davcreator’s Below Desk Bike Pedal Exerciser is a good selection. We respect the machine’s easy pedaling movement and the way simple it was to propel into the subsequent stride when testing, even after we cranked up the resistance. The place of the resistance dial and LCD display screen are simple to see, permitting you to control helpful metrics like stride and revolutions when sitting at your desk. Plus, there is a helpful carry deal with for simple portability.
Throughout testing, we seen that the setup course of was simple and took about half-hour to finish, with only some minor hiccups. The bike’s pedaling platforms had been comfy, and the bike remained regular even when pedaling on the very best resistance stage. Whereas the options had been fairly fundamental, all the pieces labored because it ought to, and the value is correct for a starter machine.
Potential Flaws
- This elliptical machine is giant and will not match smaller or shorter desks.
- Regardless of being marketed as “whisper-quiet,” noise from the pedals might be distracting, so chances are you’ll not need to use it throughout work calls.
Most Invaluable Perception
“The pedaling platform is comfy, and my toes by no means felt uncomfortable when utilizing it, even over an extended time interval.” —Tatiana Kennedy, Verywell Match product tester
Key Specs
Type: Bike | Weight: 68 kilos | Resistance Ranges: 4 | Options: Adjustable seat top, two built-in lights with customizable colour scheme, accompanying app, built-in wi-fi gadget charger | Our Total Score: 4.5/5
Who It is For
Greatest for individuals with standing desks who need a average exercise.
Why We Love It
Most under-desk bikes provide simply sufficient resistance for a light-weight exercise. If you would like one thing a bit of extra strenuous, LifeSpan’s Ampera Desk Bike is likely to be best for you. This versatile machine is definitely one of many extra superior fashions on our checklist, with a built-in generator system that powers the bike’s console and expenses digital gadgets whilst you pedal. We additionally love that it has a cell app that means that you can change your resistance and monitor your exercises.
Throughout testing, this bike made minimal noise and was very comfy to make use of for a number of 30-minute periods. We additionally favored the easy pedaling movement and the way simple it was to maneuver round. We may even slide it beneath our desk when it wasn’t in use.
Potential Flaws
- Contemplating it’s priced greater than different choices on our checklist, we want it had extra superior options and resistance choices, however we do like how comfy it’s to make use of.
- Whereas the meeting was simple, it took about an hour, and the field it got here in was heavy.
Most Invaluable Perception
“Utilizing the bike repeatedly has elevated my power ranges and improved my focus throughout and after work– making me really feel happier, productive, and engaged.” —Benny Wong, Verywell Match product tester
Key Specs
Type: Bike | Weight: 15.9 kilos | Resistance Ranges: Eight | Options: Distant management, carry handles, three pre-set routines, 18 pace ranges, computerized cease | Our Total Score: 4.6/5
Who It’s For
Greatest for individuals with mobility points who need a straightforward solution to get a every day low-impact exercise.
Why We Love It
Whereas many under-desk bikes use magnetic resistance, Sunny Well being & Health’ Motorized Electrical Below Desk Bike makes use of a motor to regulate the depth. This—and the accompanying distant—makes it particularly helpful for individuals with mobility points who could not be capable of attain down and alter resistance ranges manually. We beloved that even with the added motor, this bike was nonetheless very quiet and simple to make use of for longer intervals. The three pre-set routines are a pleasant contact, and we like that the machine robotically stops after half-hour of inactivity for security.
We additionally love that it provides 18 pace choices for growing pace and RPMs (revolutions per minute), which is far more than most handbook choices. The bike’s small dimension and built-in handles make it simple to maneuver round, and the distant management was a game-changer for adjusting between the eight resistance choices on the fly.
Potential Flaws
- Although the bottom felt fairly secure, we did discover it shifting after extended use on hardwood flooring.
- We want it had extra superior options for the value.
Most Invaluable Perception
“I like that it has totally different pre-set exercise packages, so it retains issues attention-grabbing as an alternative of simply being a continuing rotation.” —Kelly Meehan Brown, Verywell Match product tester
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Carry deal with for simple storage
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Comes with a non-slip mat, resistance bands, and two units of pedals
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Eight resistance ranges
Key Specs
Type: Bike | Weight: 18 kilos | Resistance Ranges: Eight | Options: Resistance bands, carry deal with, non-slip mat, arm pedals, proprietary app, LCD show | Our Total Score: 4.3/5
Who It’s For
Greatest for customers who need the flexibility of getting each an upper-body and lower-body exercise on the similar time, because of the machine’s arm pedals, foot pedals, and resistance bands.
Why We Love It
LifePro’s FlexCycle Train Bike is a good possibility for those who’re concerned with a multi-tasking under-desk exerciser. It comes with resistance bands and two units of pedals that can be utilized with both your toes or palms, providing each lower- and upper-body train choices. This versatility additionally makes it an excellent possibility for older adults searching for a compact, moveable train machine for a full-body exercise.
After we assembled this under-desk bike, we seen that every one of its elements had been accurately labeled, directions had been clear, and the bundle included all the mandatory instruments. Throughout testing, we loved utilizing it whereas on a name, studying, watching tv, and extra, particularly as a result of it is so quiet. We additionally like that it has eight resistance settings and a carry deal with, so we will simply retailer or transfer it when not in use.
Potential Flaws
- In the course of the meeting course of, we famous that the pedal straps had been troublesome to connect and modify.
Most Invaluable Perception
“I used to be pleasantly shocked by how nicely this bike labored. I are likely to run chilly, and after biking for 20 minutes throughout a Zoom assembly, I needed to take off the sweater I used to be sporting—it acquired my blood flowing.” —Anna Knief, Verywell Match product tester
What to Know Earlier than You Store for Below-Desk Bikes
Below-desk bikes will doubtless not offer you sufficient of a full-body exercise (except they arrive with arm pedals or resistance bands), however they could be a good complement to your common health routine. If it is advisable to enhance the depth of your under-desk exercise, you possibly can pace up your stride, enhance the resistance, or add upper-body strengtheners like body weight or dumbbell workouts. Some under-desk exercisers even include detachable resistance bands that you should use for upper-body work.
Some customers could discover that the under-desk bike tends to slide away whereas pedaling, says Marko. To resolve this challenge, she suggests propping your machine in opposition to a wall, putting an train mat beneath it, or just buying an under-desk bike with a sturdy really feel and rubber grips.
Below-Desk Bikes We Additionally Examined
In whole, we evaluated 33 under-desk bikes and ellipticals, however we solely included 9 in our ultimate checklist of suggestions. Whereas a few of these merchandise had strong options, they finally did not meet the rigorous requirements that we have now for our prime picks.
- Cubii’s JR2+ is a self-powered under-desk elliptical with simply adjustable resistance, a transparent show, nice portability, and a seamless setup. Nevertheless, we felt that this costlier machine was not well worth the decrease again ache we skilled whereas utilizing it.
- YOSUDA’s Magnetic Below Desk Biking Bike YBM-1 provides simply adjustable resistance, a transparent show for vital metrics, and a easy and silent journey. Nevertheless, we had bother with the setup course of and did not assume its high quality aligned with its value level.
What We’ve Up to date
- Since our preliminary under-desk bike check, we have gotten our palms on 4 extra merchandise. We used them throughout our regular workday for 4 weeks. We then up to date our prime bike suggestions based mostly on these new testing insights and added extra high quality under-desk bikes to our checklist of favorites.
- We consulted with two new consultants (together with a private coach {and professional} ergonomist) to ensure our recommendation on selecting and utilizing under-desk bikes continues to be updated.
What to Search for in Below-Desk Bikes
- Setup: With any piece of health tools, you need a seamless and intuitive setup—nobody needs to spend hours studying an instruction handbook whereas placing collectively an under-desk bike. Earlier than making your buy, check out the setup course of. Some under-desk bikes come absolutely assembled, whereas others require some meeting. Be aware if any mandatory instruments are included or if it is advisable to present them your self.
- Type: When looking for an under-desk exerciser, chances are you’ll discover that under-desk bicycles and under-desk ellipticals are grouped collectively. Whereas they each have pedals and may also help you obtain related outcomes, chances are you’ll desire one over the opposite comfort-wise. Ellipticals are typically smoother and quieter, whereas bicycles provide a fuller vary of movement.
- Weight: Many people could search portability when shopping for an under-desk exerciser. This can be particularly vital for those who’re bringing your exercise to the workplace. Double-check the load of the under-desk exerciser you’re eyeing earlier than shopping for it to ensure it is simple sufficient to maneuver or transport. You will additionally need one which’s safe and heavy sufficient to remain put whereas in use. Some under-desk bikes even include a strap or deal with, which makes them simpler to raise and carry.
- Resistance: Many under-desk bicycles and ellipticals include adjustable resistance. This characteristic means that you can scale up the depth of your exercises and helps you construct power whilst you pedal or stride. It is also an vital characteristic if you wish to make your exercises more difficult. Search for bikes with a number of resistance ranges and the flexibility to alter ranges simply, resembling with a knob or button.
- Dimension: Be sure to have sufficient room beneath your desk to accommodate a motorcycle. Sitting too far-off out of your desk could cause you to pressure your shoulder and neck muscular tissues. Elevating your desk to suit the bike may place your mouse and keyboards greater than advisable. If that is the case to your setup, restrict the time you are in that place so you are not placing prolonged strain in your wrists.
How We Examined the Below-Desk Bikes
To search out one of the best under-desk bikes, we completely examined and evaluated 33 bikes in our houses and places of work for 4 weeks. When testing under-desk bikes, we consider every based mostly on the next key standards.
- Ease of Setup: To guage ease of setup, we first unbox the bike and time how lengthy it takes to assemble any elements. We notice if any required instruments are included. We additionally consider how clear and easy-to-understand the instructions are. Lastly, if the bike requires batteries, are they included? We prioritize bikes that come absolutely assembled or are nearly absolutely assembled with clear directions.
- Efficiency: After positioning the bike accurately, we pedal for no less than 20 minutes per session and ask ourselves if we will sit comfortably or if it feels awkward or uncomfortable. Is the bike noisy or wobbly and distracting whereas we’re attempting to work? Are the pedals and resistance adjustable? If there’s a show display screen, is it simple to navigate and skim?
- Options: Some bikes have particular options, like the choice to pedal ahead and backward or Bluetooth connectivity for stat monitoring. Whereas utilizing the under-desk bikes, we notice any particular options and consider whether or not they’re simple and useful. We additionally notice whether or not they contribute to the general efficiency of the bike or are troublesome or distracting. We prioritize bikes which have options that improve our expertise.
- Worth: To precisely assess the worth of every bike, we wait till after we have evaluated it for all of its different attributes earlier than we verify its value. Primarily based on the efficiency and our general expertise with the bike, do we expect it’s priced pretty? Would we suggest it to mates or household?
Our Consultants
We collaborated with well being and health consultants throughout our analysis, testing, and reporting for this story. Every skilled supplied steering on the right and secure use of the under-desk bikes we examined. In addition they supplied enter on the advantages of utilizing an under-desk bike and options to search for and keep away from when looking for one. Whereas our product choices are unbiased, skilled insights assist inform our choices.
- Theresa Marko, PT, DPT, MS, board-certified orthopedic scientific specialist
- Latoya Julce, licensed private coach and teacher at 305 Health
- Lisa Orr, licensed skilled ergonomist at Sedgwick
Steadily Requested Questions
Is an under-desk bike or elliptical higher?
Below-desk bicycles and under-desk ellipticals are extremely related, so neither is essentially higher or worse than the opposite. Below-desk ellipticals are typically smoother and quieter, whereas under-desk bicycles have a tendency to supply a fuller vary of movement.
What’s one of the simplest ways to make use of an under-desk bike?
Below-desk bikes are sometimes positioned beneath a desk and used whereas working or finishing duties. Nevertheless, they do not have for use with a desk and have a tendency to work nicely if the consumer is seated on a sofa or chair. It’s vital that you just really feel comfy whereas utilizing an under-desk bike; in any other case, you’ll be distracted and certain received’t need to use it. Be sure that your bike will match beneath your desk earlier than buying and that there’s sufficient clearance to your knees to maneuver with out hitting the desk.
Are under-desk bikes secure to your knees?
Marko says under-desk biking is a non-weight-bearing train that’s secure to your knees and may very well profit individuals with unhealthy knees. The movement of biking will increase the secretion of synovial fluid, which helps lubricate the joint and nourish the cartilage, she says.
How a lot does a high quality under-desk bike value?
You’ll be able to count on to pay between $50 and $350 for a high quality under-desk bike that can preserve you shifting and reduce the variety of sedentary hours all through your day. Worth will range relying on fashion and options.
Why Belief Verywell Match
Michelle Parente is a seasoned way of life journalist who’s obsessed with making well-vetted product suggestions. She focuses on well being and health content material and is at all times studying up on the most recent wellness analysis.
Extra reporting by Lindsey Lanquist and Shannon Ullman
Verywell Match author Lindsey Lanquist has years of expertise within the well being and health house. For this procuring information, she prioritized under-desk bicycles and ellipticals that had been genuinely well-reviewed by those that’d tried them. She additionally favored choices with adjustable resistance. Since preferences can range a lot in terms of health machines, she made positive to incorporate under-desk bicycles and under-desk ellipticals with a spread of options.
Shannon Ullman is a author who focuses on well being and wellness. Her work might be discovered on websites like Insider Inc. and MindBodyGreen. As a longtime distant employee, she’s at all times looking out for methods to remain lively whereas working from house. She additionally loves ergonomic merchandise that promote good posture and cut back sedentary conduct, resembling under-desk bikes.