What flywheel weight do I need for spin bike?
For indoor bikes, the recommended flywheel weight is about 18-20kgs, whereas the weight can be around 20-22kg for commercial bikes.
The heavy flywheel helps RPM recovery, allows the engine not to lug during the gear transmission. The light flywheels decrease the inertia, so it gives a quick response to acceleration and deceleration. For this reason, light flywheels are used in the sports car.
Heavier flywheels imitate the way a road bike works. It's why flywheel weight is often important to cyclists who train indoors during the winter. Once momentum builds and the cyclist gets into a rhythm, a heavier flywheel also allows for a smoother and more comfortable ride.
With a lightweight flywheel, right away you will notice the engine revs more quickly. You free up the horsepower your engine is already making and send it to the rear wheels rather than have it dissipate as parasitic losses.
Heavier flywheels can be ideal for individuals that prefer the feel of an outdoor bicycle, or studio cycling experience. Lighter flywheels are great for the rider that's ready to jump into action and may desire a bike that's easier on the joints.
When it comes to flywheel weight, I think heavier is the way to go for most of us. It's a pretty safe bet that an exercise bike with at least a 20 lb flywheel is going to provide a fairly smooth ride. These bikes tend to be more cost effective than advanced bikes that properly utilize a light flywheel.
Fitting a lighter engine flywheel has some drawbacks. While the engine can rev more easily, it also means revs drop quickly when you're not accelerating. As a result, shifting and pulling away from a stop smoothly becomes more difficult.
Most spin bikes are in the range of 30 lbs to 50 lbs and for most people this range is fine for providing them with the smoothness and workout they want. The big benefit of the heavy flywheel is the natural and smooth riding motion that gives a better and more efficient riding experience.
What is a Good Wattage for Indoor Cycling? When it comes to watts, there's not a magic number that applies to all. But generally speaking, a beginner cyclist may average around 75-100 watts in a 1-hour workout. A more conditioned rider will average more than 100 watts, and pro cyclists can reach up to 400.
Wattage goals will vary from person to person. No exact watt number is appropriate for all riders. Generally speaking, a beginner cyclist may average around 75–100 watts in a 1-hour workout. A fit participant will average more than 100 watts, and pro cyclists can reach 400 watts per hour.