Best Air Bikes 2024 – We Survived Testing These Beasts

AssaultBike Pro X

Best Air Bike Overall

Rogue Echo Bike

Best Overbuilt Air Bike

• Star Rating
• PriceMSRP: $845
• ManufacturerRogue
• TypeAir Bike

Best Price at Rogue

80

The Rogue Echo Bike can handle your toughest workouts with its intense, burly build and powerful air resistance.

Rating MatricOur Rating

• Workout Experience

  8

• Specs / Features

  8

• Dimensions / Storability

  7

• On-Board Workouts & Apps

  7

• Build Quality

  9

What We Like:

• The bulky design and heavy 350 lb capacity indicate the excellent build quality.
• The quiet belt drive minimizes the noise output and requires less maintenance than chain drive systems.
• The four rubber leveling feet help the bike stay put.
• The battery-powered console lets you focus on specific training goals, such as heart rate, calories, interval tracking, distance, and more.

Areas For Improvement:

• The handles are 1.5″ thick, which might be too large for some users, and the seat might not be low enough for shorter users.
• The warranty is more limited than comparable brands.

Another popular fan bike is the Rogue Echo Bike from Rogue Fitness. It has a large fan and metal fan blades to generate a lot of resistance. It will also feel harder to get the fan moving because it uses a belt drive system rather than a chain. The belt drive system is a bit quieter and doesn’t require maintenance.

The hearty steel construction makes this a stable bike even when you’re cranking on the handles and pedals. The Rogue Echo Bike might not be best for shorter users because of its larger build, but you’ll be able to adjust the seat forward and back as well as up and down to get a good bike fit.

The simple console keeps you informed about your workout metrics. For additional costs, you can purchase accessories like a fan shield, water bottle cage, and phone holder. It would be nice to have these features included like many of the other bikes on this list.

We’ve named this the best-overbuilt air bike because it’s beefy, well-constructed, and built like a tank. Check out the Rogue Echo Bike if you’re looking for a durable, heavy-duty air bike.

Click here to read our detailed review of the Rogue Echo Bike.

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Schwinn Airdyne AD7 Pro

Best Airdyne Bike

• Star Rating
• PriceMSRP: $1,099
• ManufacturerSchwinn
• TypeAir Bike

Best Price At Schwinn

77

The Schwinn Airdyne AD7 is a smooth and quiet air bike due to its belt drive, which forgoes the gritty feel of most air bikes.

Rating MatricOur Rating

• Workout Experience

  8

• Specs / Features

  8

• Dimensions / Storability

  8

• On-Board Workouts & Apps

  8

• Build Quality

  8

What We Like:

• The belt drive system requires less maintenance and makes less noise than other bikes with chain drive systems.
• The handles have multiple grip options to isolate different muscles.
• The console has nine preloaded programs for more focused, targeted training.
• The console comes with extra storage and an included cup holder.

Areas For Improvement:

• The console isn’t backlit, so it can be harder to see in darker rooms.
• Larger and stronger users might experience some side-to-side rocking when working at harder, faster paces.

The Schwinn Airdyne AD7 Pro is another quieter fan bike option and our pick for the best airdyne bike. It uses a belt drive, so maintenance won’t be a problem. It also could be better for apartments, condos, and shared spaces. We prefer the feel of the smoother feel of pedaling a belt-driven air bike compared to a chain-driven air bike.

We like that the handles offer multiple grip options and are covered in a rubber coating. That way, you get a good grasp and target different muscles in your upper body. The handles make this a little more friendly for users of all sizes.

We like the fact that it comes with a built-in cupholder and storage. On other comparable models, accessories like these are sold separately, so we appreciate them being included. It also has onboard programs like interval training in the console.

If you’re looking for a durable air bike, the Schwinn Airdyne AD7 Pro is one to check out. Schwinn is a trusted brand in the bike world, and they offer a nice 10-year warranty to back up the steel frame. The large seat, fan, and steel powder-coated corrosion-resistant frame make this air bike a great option for your home.

Click here to read our detailed review of the Schwinn AD7 Pro.

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Bells of Steel Blitz Air Bike

Best Budget Air Bike

• Star Rating
• PriceMSRP: $799
• ManufacturerBells of Steel
• TypeAir Bike

Best Price at Bells of Steel

75

The Bells of Steel Blitz Air Bike performs similarly to the rest of the air bikes on this list, but it will save you potentially hundreds of dollars.

Rating MatricOur Rating

• Workout Experience

  7

• Specs / Features

  7

• Dimensions / Storability

  6

• On-Board Workouts & Apps

  6

• Build Quality

  7

What We Like:

• This bike has excellent construction at an affordable price.
• The belt drive system makes this bike quieter than other air bikes with chain drive systems while still providing an unlimited amount of resistance to work against.
• The cushioned seat is comfortable.
• There is an included wind guard and holders for your phone and water.

Areas For Improvement:

• The console has fewer tech and training options than others.
• The transportation wheels are a little small, making moving around a little difficult.

An affordable pick on this list is the Bells Of Steel Blitz Air Bike 2.0. It’s earned the award as the best budget air bike on this list of best air bikes because of its quality and budget-friendly price. Our edition of the Blitz has a yellow fan, but the Bells of Steel Blitz Bike now has a black fan. We liked the little pop of color, but other users might appreciate the more streamlined look.

The Bells Of Steel Blitz Air Bike 2.0 comes with some nice features. A removable wind guard, water bottle holder, and phone holder are included in the price. Though we consider this air bike a budget pick, it doesn’t mean it’s lacking in construction. The steel frame is durable and designed for both commercial and home use.

Another appealing factor about the Blitz Bike is that it uses a belt drive system, which makes it quieter than other air bikes. Of course, the large fan will provide unlimited resistance to work against, but the belt feels smooth and doesn’t generate extra noise like chains. It also doesn’t require much, if any, maintenance.

We like the seat on the Bells Of Steel Air Bike. It’s nicely padded with forgiving cushioning that doesn’t feel slippery. Plus, it adjusts four ways so users of most heights can fit on this one. The console is easy to use and includes onboard workouts like Tabata and custom intervals, so you’re sure to get a well-rounded full-body workout on this machine.

Click here to read our detailed review of the Bells of Steel Blitz Air Bike.

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Titan Fitness Fan Bike

Best Budget Runner-Up

• Star Rating
• PriceMSRP: $749
• ManufacturerTitan Fitness
• TypeAir Bike

Best Price at Titan

74

Jumbo turf tires make moving the Titan Fitness Fan Bike around indoors and outdoors so much easier.

Rating MatricOur Rating

• Workout Experience

  7

• Specs / Features

  7

• Dimensions / Storability

  8

• On-Board Workouts & Apps

  6

• Build Quality

  7

What We Like:

• The turf tires and back handle make this fan bike easier to move around.
• It comes with features that are sold separately on other air bikes.
• The slimmer design makes it better for smaller users.
• The LCD console comes with various workout modes and training programs.

Areas For Improvement:

• It’s not quite as solid and steady as other models, especially when you’re working out hard on it.
• The warranty is more limited than other brands.

If you’re looking for a fan bike that’s easy to move, then look no further than the Titan Fitness Fan Bike. The front turf tires let you move the bike over multiple surfaces, including grass, and the back handle also assists in making it easy to move. You’ll get other handy features like an aluminum water bottle holder and an adjustable phone holder.

It’s also slightly slimmer than other models to take up less space. It uses a chain drive system, so some maintenance should be expected. You’ll get the unlimited resistance that fan bikes offer on the Titan Fitness, but with a few more included features that we find thoughtful and helpful.

We named the Titan Fitness Fan Bike the best budget runner-up pick because of the included accessories and quality you get at a low price point. It weighs 111 lbs, is made of steel, and supports up to 330 lbs. The 38 mm diameter handles should be slim enough for you to wrap your hands around yet thick enough for you to push and pull to work your upper body.

On the console, you’ll have interval training programs to choose from, and metrics like time, distance, calories, watts, rpm, and speed are displayed.

Check out the Titan Fitness Fan Bike if you’re looking for a great bang for your buck.

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Concept2 BikeERG

Best Air Bike Without Arms

• Star Rating
• PriceMSRP: $1,100
• ManufacturerConcept2
• TypeAir Bike

Best Price at Concept2

82

The Concept2 BikeErg falls somewhere between an air bike and a studio bike, offering a unique indoor cycling experience unmatched by any other on this list or elsewhere.

Rating MatricOur Rating

• Workout Experience

  7

• Specs / Features

  5

• Dimensions / Storability

  8

• On-Board Workouts & Apps

  4

• Build Quality

  8

What We Like:

• The bike is lightweight at 68 lbs, so it can be moved around easily.
• There are four adjustment points for the perfect bike fit.
• The damper on the fan allows you to adjust the amount of air that flows in, which controls the amount of tension you can pedal against.
• The display is backlit and has multiple options, including connecting to third-party apps.

Areas For Improvement:

• Doesn’t come with movable arms and handles for upper body training.
• The warranty is a bit limited compared to other air bikes.

The Concept2 BikeErg differs slightly from the other air bikes on this list. First, it is a hybrid bike that crosses between an air bike and an indoor cycling bike. The Concept2 has a fan that provides unlimited resistance. Plus, there is a damper on the fan that controls the amount of air that gets sucked into the fan.

The damper essentially changes the feel of the resistance, so you get some added variety in your training. A typical air bike’s resistance can only be controlled by how fast you pedal and how hard you push. The Concept2 can be controlled this way and with the damper. The BikeErg’s fan is a bit smaller than the other fan bikes.

The non-moving handles and slim saddle make this air bike similar to indoor cycling bikes. This design is better for lower body training, and pedaling on this bike can be described as a steady leg burn. It also uses a belt drive system, so it’s quieter than air bikes that use chains.

The console is basic, but it’s Bluetooth-enabled to connect to third-party apps like Zwift, and it has a built-in clip for using your phone. You can also connect to ErgData, Concept2’s free app. It allows you to compete against other Concept2 users.

If you’re looking for a bike that offers more tension than your average spin bike, check out the Concept2 BikeErg.

Click here to read our detailed review of the Concept2 BikeERG.

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AssaultBike Elite

Best Studio Fitness Class

• Star Rating
• PriceMSRP: $1,499
• ManufacturerAssault Fitness
• TypeAir Bike

Best Price at Assault

78

The AssaultBike Elite is a beast of an air bike with a rugged construction and chain drive.

Rating MatricOur Rating

• Workout Experience

  8

• Specs / Features

  7

• Dimensions / Storability

  7

• On-Board Workouts & Apps

  7

• Build Quality

  8

What We Like

• The commercial-grade build makes it solid and able to handle a lot of use.
• The basic LCD console displays important metrics, offers built-in interval settings and targeted training goals, and doesn’t require internet or an electrical outlet.
• The seat can be adjusted up and down, forward and back, to fit a wider range of users of different sizes.
• It weighs 139 lbs and has wheels for easy transportation.

Areas For Improvement:

• The chain drive system is louder than belt drive systems and can require a little maintenance.
• The console isn’t backlit.

Assault Fitness’s top-of-the-line air bike is the AssaultBike Elite, which is also the runner-up best AssaultBike since we have two of their bikes on this list. The AssaultBike Elite has earned this award because of its impressive build and features.

Its commercial-grade quality makes it suitable for gym and home use. The heavy, powder-coated steel frame is solid to keep the bike steady even while sprinting. The AssaultBike is one of the most popular air bikes out there.

Although the chain drive system can make a little noise on top of the fan, the quality of the build should require less maintenance with home use. The large 350 lb weight capacity can handle larger users. Plus, the seat is larger and wider than a typical bike seat for added comfort. Exercise enthusiasts of all sizes will also get a perfect fit with the 2-way adjustable seat.

The AssaultBike Elite doesn’t require electricity, and the LCD console turns on once you pedal. It’s Bluetooth-enabled to connect to the Assault Fitness App and a compatible chest strap. The console includes the ability to do Tabata and reverse Tabata intervals and set targeted time, distance, and calorie goals. You can also create custom intervals.

Click here to read our detailed review of the Assault Bike Elite.

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Xebex AirPlus Expert Bike 3.0 Smart Connect

Best Magnetic Resistance Bike

• Star Rating
• PriceMSRP: $1,249
• ManufacturerXebex
• TypeAir Bike

Best Price at GetRx’d

76

The Xebex AirPlus Expert Bike 3.0 Smart Connect is for the athlete looking for a little more connectivity than other air bikes provide, pairing to apps like Zwift and Kinomap.

Rating MatricOur Rating

• Workout Experience

  5

• Specs / Features

  5

• Dimensions / Storability

  7

• On-Board Workouts & Apps

  8

• Build Quality

  6

What We Like:

• The frame is heavy at 174 lbs, and its impressive 500 lbs weight capacity speaks to its build and durability.
• It uses unlimited air and magnetic resistance that you can adjust for even more tension.
• The handles have different grip options to work more muscles in your upper body.
• The console has Bluetooth connectivity to sync with 3rd party apps.

Areas For Improvement:

• The heavier build might not be best for users who need to move it around often.
• The belt drive system doesn’t let you ghost ride, where the pedals keep moving after you stop pedaling.

Xebex Airplus Expert Bike 3.0 Smart Connect is the heaviest bike on our list, weighing 174 lbs. It also has a huge weight capacity of 500 lbs. Both tell us this bike is heavy-duty, stable, and can handle users of all sizes.

We like that it has multi-grip handles. Another unique feature of the Xebex AirPlus is that it uses air and adjustable magnetic resistance. This additional resistance type provides even more tension to pedal against. It’s a nice feature to adjust your resistance without pedaling faster. I love that the handle to change the resistance level is a numbered lever for easy adjustments.

The console also connects through Bluetooth to third-party apps like Kinomap, GymTrakr, Zwift, and more for extra training choices. On the console, you’ll see metrics like total time, calories, distance, watts, speed, RPM, heart rate, and the level of magnetic resistance you’re at.

Training on Zwift with an air bike might feel a little strange, considering the platform was designed for cycling trainers and studio bikes. Yet, training with a platform like Zwift is fun and entertaining. There are also more structured workouts to do in the app. It’s a favorite indoor cycling activity in our studio.

If you’re looking for an air bike that offers more resistance variability, we suggest looking into the Xebex AirPlus Expert Bike 3.0.

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What to Consider when Buying an Air Bike

Before you buy and bring your new air bike home, you want to make sure that you’ve considered a few factors. That way, you’ll ensure that whichever fan bike you choose will be best for you.

Drive System

One thing to remember is that no matter what type of air bike you use, it will generate some sound. Air bikes have a fan that sucks in air, and the fan blades move against that airflow, creating tension when you pedal and move the arms. Because of this, they can be noisier than other types of fitness equipment, like magnetic resistance exercise bikes, for instance.

Generally, air bikes use two drive systems: chain or belt. Chain drive systems work similarly to outdoor bicycles because they use a metal chain that connects the pedals to the fan. When you’re pedaling, a clanking or grinding sound from the chain is heard in addition to the wind noise. Belt drive systems use a fabric belt to connect the pedals to the fan and are quieter.

If you prefer minimal noise, a belt drive system is best. They’re also great because they require minimal maintenance and have a smooth feel. Chain drive systems can require some maintenance, but they have a more realistic feel and can let you ghost ride, which is when the pedals and fan blades move when you stop pedaling.

Product Weight And Weight Capacity

Typically, when we review any type of equipment, we check out the weight capacity and even how much the product itself weighs. Usually, the heavier the weight capacity and the heavier the machine, the more heavy-duty and durable it is to use. If you’re a larger person or are planning on getting a lot of use out of your air bike, we suggest looking into these factors.

Seat Adjustments

Most air bikes have seats that adjust up and down, forward and back. Adjusting your seat position is important to ensure proper form. Most brands don’t list the heights that their bikes accommodate, so we try to include this in our reviews.

Just like the weight capacity is too small for some users, there are fan bikes that aren’t best for smaller, shorter folks. This may be because the seat doesn’t go low enough or the overall build of the bike is bulkier and too large.

Moving Arms

Shorter air bike users should be mindful of the air bike handles’ range of motion. As a shorter user myself, some air bikes require me to twist and uncomfortably reach for the end of the handles’ range of motion. The AssaultBike Pro X is one of my favorite bikes because of its more comfortable range of motion.

An air bike with multiple grip options may be more comfortable for a wider range of users.

Console

Most air bikes come with pretty simple consoles. They’re considered simple when compared to other home fitness equipment that has large attached touch screens, which can have similar functionality to tablets and even televisions. Just because they’re more basic doesn’t mean that they are less, however.

You’ll see your workout metrics; most even come with built-in onboard programs like interval training. If you’re looking for a bit more tech, some connect to devices through Bluetooth, too. Fitness apps are a little newer to the fan bike world, but a few have trainer-led classes you can take on a separate device if that’s your thing.

We suggest reviewing the console’s features to ensure that they align with your wants and goals.

Accessories

Additional accessories might not seem like a big deal, but they can help influence your enjoyment and even how much you use your fan bike. Some air bikes come with included accessories, while others offer them at an additional cost.

These accessories include water bottle holders, device racks, turf tires, and wind guards. Holders for water bottles and phones could be handy if you like to keep them nearby. Turf tires might seem like overkill for a fan bike, but if you want to use and move your bike over different surfaces like grass, this type of tire lets you do this.

Wind guards can also be pretty impactful. If you’re in a cold garage, for instance, you probably don’t want the air from the fan blowing at you. If your garage tends to be hot, especially if you are training without AC in the summer, you should check if the wind guard is removable or not.

Warranty And Quality

The brand’s warranty can sometimes be an indicator of the overall quality of a product. You also want a good warranty if you have any problems with your air bike.

Price

If you have a specific budget, that can help determine which fan bike you purchase. The price can also indicate how well-built and durable the bike is. A fan bike under $500 will probably not be the same quality as a fan bike priced over $1000. The cheaper option might also not last as long as a more expensive one.

Benefits Of Using An Air Bike

If you’re a newer user of air bikes, you might be wondering what benefits they offer. They’re a great piece of equipment for cardio and conditioning, but they also have these perks:

Low Impact

Riding on an air bike is a low-impact activity. This means that you won’t get an impact on your joints like running. This is great if you have knee or ankle problems or just want to limit added stress on your body.

High Intensity

Another benefit is that you don’t have to spend much time on an air bike to get a good workout. Fan bikes are great for high-intensity training because you can’t outwork an air bike. The harder you push, the harder the bike gets to use. It’s recommended for high-intensity interval training and is great for shorter periods if you’re pushing.

Total Body

Additionally, it’s a low-impact activity that offers high-intensity training, and air bikes can also work your whole body. Unlike exercise bikes that primarily work your legs, fan bikes have movable arms that get your upper body working just as hard as your lower body. Plus, your core and back muscles will get a workout.

Targeted Training

Of course, if you want to isolate certain muscle groups, you have that option on a fan bike. There are foot pegs located on either side of the fan to rest your feet when you want to work your upper body. You can also pedal with your legs to work all the muscles in your legs.

Additional Benefits

Air bikes are effective cardio machines that give killer workouts. They’re also good for warming up before a sweaty session and cooling down afterward. Properly warming up and cooling down your muscles can help avoid injuries.

Air bikes can also be used for active recovery and rehabilitation. Since the bike adapts to your intensity, it’s great for days when you want to recover your muscles but still get in a workout. The low-impact, full-body movement is similar to walking and running but without the impact on your joints, which makes it beneficial for recovering from an injury.

Why Buy An Air Bike?

Maybe you’re interested in getting an air bike, especially after learning about all its benefits, but you’re still not completely sold. Let me explain why it’s an effective cardio machine and why you should buy one.

If You’re Short On Time

If you’re short on time but still want an intense workout, hop on an air bike for 10-20 minutes. If you’re willing to put in the effort, this cardio equipment will show up. Because it is low impact, you can go hard on an air bike without worrying about damaging your joints.

With proper form on a fan bike, you’ll work muscles throughout your body and strengthen your cardiovascular system. All of this can be achieved in a pretty short amount of time, too.

Get In Shape And Take Fitness To The Next Level

There’s a reason why air bikes are commonly used for CrossFit and by all kinds of athletes. They get the job done. If you’re trying to take your fitness to the next level or get in better shape, this popular machine can help you get there.

Burns Calories

Of course, with any movement, you will burn some calories. However, the higher the intensity of the exercise, the more calories you’ll burn. So, rest assured, if you work hard on the air bike, you’ll burn a lot of calories. This can also help aid in weight loss if that’s your goal.

Unlimited Resistance

One of the many reasons why we like fan bikes is because they can work for everyone. The faster you pedal and move the arms, the more air resistance you’ll get. This means that you literally can’t outwork this machine. Even if you’re super strong, the air resistance remains unlimited.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an air bike better than a spin bike?

One isn’t necessarily better than the other because it’s really up to your goals. Spin bikes are excellent for steady-state cardio over longer periods of time. They’re also recommended if you want to focus on working your lower body primarily. Plus, most are often practically silent, so they’re great for shared living spaces like apartments.

As mentioned above, air bikes work your entire body and can give you an intense workout in a short period. The fans offer unlimited resistance, so you can’t out-pedal it, but air bikes are louder than spin bikes.

Another factor is that air bikes tend to have simpler, lower-tech consoles than spin bikes. Many home spin bikes come with large attached touch screens with fitness subscription classes to take. The bottom line is that each type of bike serves different purposes and has various pros and cons.

Can you just pedal or just use the arms on an air bike?

Yes. You can use the footpegs to work your arms or pedal your feet to work your legs. Air bikes are great for targeted training.

Which is better – Air Bike or Treadmill?

It depends on what you want to get out of your workout. Treadmills have been the go-to machine for cardio. They are a bit more versatile than air bikes. You can walk, jog, sprint, do interval training, and more on a treadmill. They can also be better for less intense training. However, treadmills are a high-impact exercise and cause more pressure on your joints.

They’re both great for your cardiovascular system and will certainly burn calories. If you have knee problems, an air bike will probably work better for you than a treadmill. If you want more versatility or even to train for a race, then a treadmill is a solid choice.