A stationary exercise bicycle having a frame; a base pivotally connected to said frame and having a front portion, a rear portion, and a side portion connecting said front portion to said rear portion; a pedaling mechanism connected to said frame; a flywheel in an operative relationship with said pedaling mechanism such that a rotation of said pedaling mechanism causes a rotation of said flywheel; and a tensioning member engaged with said flywheel and connected to said frame and said base such that said tensioning member exerts a tension on said pedaling mechanism, wherein said tension is reduced if said frame is tilted toward said front portion of said base and said tension is increased if said frame is tilted toward said rear portion of said base.