Are recumbent bikes better than upright bikes for bad backs and knees?

Across the reviewers we read, the consensus is yes: the reclined seat and backrest take pressure off the lower spine and the pedal position reduces knee loading, which is why physical therapists and rehab-focused reviewers tend to recommend recumbents for users with back pain, hip issues, or balance concerns. The trade-off is that recumbents take up more floor space and offer less standing-climb intensity than uprights.