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About exercise bikes

Exercise bikes are used by people to maintain or improve their fitness. They are stationary bicycles that are often used indoors.

Older exercise bike designs were typically chain-driven and used fan-style wheel spokes to create resistance. Both are major causes of injuries. Modern exercise bikes have generally moved away from this older design.

Risks and injuries from the product

Poorly constructed seats and seat supports on exercise bikes can cause impalement and falls, resulting in head and limb injuries.

Older exercise bikes with spoke wheels can be dangerous, particularly to small children. Children can get their fingers, feet or toes caught in the chain, sprockets or the spokes of the exercise bike, causing serious injuries.

Things to look for when buying the product

Some accidents have happened to people using exercise bikes. For this reason, there’s a mandatory standard that suppliers and retailers must comply with.

Only buy an exercise bike that complies with the exercise cycles mandatory standard.

Design and construction

  • The exercise bike has safety guards securely and permanently fixed to the frame.
  • Safety guards cover any moving parts
  • Safety guards can’t be removed without using a tool.
  • The exercise bike is supplied with instructions for assembly, maintenance and the the correct adjustment of the seat.

How to use the product safely

  • Never remove any safety guards from exercise bikes.
  • Store the exercise bike away from young children.
  • Don’t allow young children near an exercise bike that’s in use.

Next steps if a product is unsafe

When buying a product, consumers have the right to expect the product is of acceptable quality.

Acceptable quality includes that the product is safe, durable and free from defects.

If you bought a product that doesn’t comply with the mandatory standard or is unsafe, you can report it to us.

Report an unsafe product

If a person is seriously injured or needs urgent medical help, call emergency services on Triple Zero (000).