[Ronin]

Hi Rad Warrier!

The muscles used in walking and cycling are pretty much the same. The only difference being that cycling is a low-impact form of exercise.

I'm not big on "stationary bikes" as I like to ride outside whenever possible. A regular bike, properly fit, is great and if you get an indoor trainer (magnetic, air, or fluid resistance --perhaps rollers) you have a machine that you can use indoors, outdoors for recreation or transportation.

The recumbent versus upright issue is more about theology than anything else. I prefer the upright variety because it fits my belief system. Of course fit is a very important factor and, while it seems counter-intuitive on an upright bike, you need to be leaning a bit forward and down so that part of your upper body weight is supported by your arms and a hard (as opposed to a soft) saddle is much more comfortable for long distance rides.