I'm new to the community and in the market for inexpensive but durable home exercise equipment. I'd like something I'll get a good workout using but won't get bored with easily. I have enjoyed (as much as anyone can possibly enjoy exercising!) using both at gyms in the past, but have never owned either one. Any opinions from owners of either/both?
Which do you use more?
What do you like/dislike about them?

Thanks!

I personally like treadmills more, but I would recommend buying a bike if you are looking for something inexpensive. You get more for your $$. A decent treadmill is very expensive.

A decent recumbent biike isn't cheap either. Check your local paper for used equipment, try garage sales or www.craigslist.org if you live near a major city. By this time of year, many people are selling the equipment that seemed like such a good idea last January. I have a Schwinn recumbent bike that I paid about $900 for at least 8 years ago. It is smooth, comfortable, durable, and well worth the cost over a cheaper model. I had an inexpensive treadmill that nearly cost me my knee...cheap equipment can be dangerous as well as just annoying!

Mel

Thanks for the suggestions!
I love Craigslist ... you can find ANYTHING there.
I found a decent treadmill for about $200 (used, but all online reviews I've found say it's a good company/model). I've also got a line on a few recumbent bikes that are around $150-200.
It's so true about the season - I started looking on Craigslist in the winter and nobody was selling any indoor equipment, but now that the weather is improving it's all over the place!
I'm leaning more toward a treadmill, but I'm keeping an open mind.

Tredmils definalty give you MORE BANG FOR YOUR BUCK!! Not only do they get you moving to loose weight but after your 30-60 min walk you feel much more energectic and A LIVE! trust me, I walk everyday...about 15000-20000 steps a day and I feel greatt!!!
Bikes I dont feel work to well......

When I bike indoors I don't get a decent workout I too would prefer a treadmill for an indoor workout... but for outside I love both biking and running, I have to flip a coin to see which I will do ...

I have a treadmill and a bike. I just got the bike so I use it first cause it's a novelty right now. The bike was selling in the $1400 range and I love it. The treadmill was much more expensive but is very nice also. I like to mix it up so this is ok. I also have the spinner but I really need to get back on that. I think if I had to pick one, it would be the treadmill as a first choice (everyone can walk). Spinner is my last choice in types of bike (hurts my butt!). The recumbent is great, you can watch tv or read while doing it.