On an exercise bike, cadence describes how quickly you turn the pedals, usually shown as revolutions per minute. Resistance describes what you are working against. They interact, but they are not interchangeable. Learn how the particular bike manages both before copying a class's numbers or assuming that a higher setting always describes the whole workout.
The controls and feedback differ between models. A numbered knob, an air-damper lever, and an automatic training mode may not behave in the same way. Use the instructions for the bike in front of you rather than treating every indoor bike as a version of the same machine.
Separate the pedal speed from the setting
If the display shows cadence, use that label to understand what the number represents. It is not the same as elapsed time, distance, or power. Check the manual when a display label is unclear instead of guessing from the number's size.
For a simple example, pedaling faster changes cadence even if you have not moved the resistance control. Turning a resistance control changes a different part of the setup. How those changes affect the work depends on the machine and its operating mode.
Know which type of control you are using
Some bikes let you select a resistance level manually. Others use a different mechanism or automatically change resistance during a program. Ask an instructor or consult the manual about the specific arrangement, including how to stop and how to return to a manageable setting.
A bike's level number does not give you a universal scale for another machine. A class instruction to use a certain number needs context: which equipment, which mode, and which rider the instruction is for. You do not need to force a number that prevents controlled pedaling.
See why an air bike is a specific example
On the air-resistance BikeErg, Concept2 explains that both the damper setting and pedaling cadence affect the resistance the rider feels. The fan's behavior means that pedaling faster can substantially change the effort even without moving the damper.
That is a manufacturer-specific example, not a claim that every exercise bike works identically. Use it to understand why copying a resistance label from another bike can be misleading. Follow the guidance for your own model rather than importing the BikeErg's settings into a different system.
Change one variable while you learn
During a suitable easy practice period, notice what happens when you make one small adjustment as directed by the bike's instructions. You might keep a comfortable pedaling rhythm while learning the control, rather than increasing the rhythm and the setting at the same time.
This is a way to understand the equipment, not a prescribed interval workout. If a program or clinician gives you specific instructions, follow those. A qualified instructor can help you choose an appropriate starting arrangement when the controls or feedback feel confusing.
Do not let the display replace technique
Keep the setup appropriate and the movement controlled. If you begin bouncing, straining to turn the pedals, or struggling to operate the bike, reduce the challenge or stop and seek guidance. Chasing a cadence number is not a reason to continue a movement you cannot manage.
Use the machine's instructions for stopping safely. Some arrangements behave differently when you stop applying effort, so learn that before beginning a demanding session. Do not assume that standing up, suddenly letting go, or stepping off is the correct response on every bike.
Record enough context to repeat a session
If you want a useful note, include the bike or model, the operating mode, and the settings that applied. A resistance number without that context may not help when you use a different unit next time.
You can also note whether the session felt manageable and whether you understood the controls. That gives an instructor a concrete starting point for advice. There is no need to create an elaborate performance record while you are still learning what the display means.
Make the next ride clearer
Before your next indoor ride, identify the cadence display, the resistance control or mode, and the stop procedure. Once those are familiar, you can follow an appropriate session with less guesswork. The aim is to use the equipment deliberately, not to collect the highest numbers it can show.