8 Best Air Bikes Reviewed: Budget & High End Models Compared

Air Bike Comparison Table

Benefits Of Air Resistance Bikes

1. Full Body Workout

One of the biggest reasons home gym owners invest in an air resistance bike is its ability to deliver a full-body workout. Because air bikes use your arms and legs, you can achieve an upper and lower body workout at the same time.

Because you're giving your entire body a workout instead of just focusing on one muscle group, the intensity is dialed up, which helps to improve your cardio fitness dramatically.

2. Low Impact Exercise

Treadmills and other home gym equipment can cause havoc on your joints. Ankles, knees, and hips are all vulnerable to stress and strain from high impact exercises such as running or jogging.

Stationary bikes use smooth movements that put less strain on your joints, helping to prevent injury. They're great for rehabilitation too.

3. Variable Positioning

Most air bikes come with adjustable seat heights to support a comfortable workout. Not only that, but you can adjust the seat to allow for seated or standing exercise, ideal for spin classes.

4. Easy To Use

Despite offering many incredible benefits, air bikes are just like a regular exercise bike and are simple to use - get on, get off, simple! Increasing or decreasing the resistance is as simple as switching up how fast you are pedaling.

This is one reason why we think air resistance bikes are great for gym beginners - they are one of the least intimidating pieces of gym equipment you can buy!

5. Unlimited Intensity & Resistance

Resistance is a fantastic tool that can help you smash your fitness goals. Whether you're looking to shed some extra pounds, improve your cardio fitness, or simply be healthier, cranking up that resistance can help you meet those goals efficiently and effectively.

What's great about air resistance bikes is you are in complete control. Using wind generated through the fan on the bike, you have (literally) unlimited levels of resistance at your feet.

6. Perfect For Interval Training (HIIT)

High-intensity interval training is quite possible the fat shedding secret you've been looking for. By combining short bursts of exercise with defined rest periods, a HIIT workout can help you burn extra calories long after you have stepped off the bike.

Because you're in complete control over the intensity, interval training is simple. When it's ready to push yourself to your limits, simply pedal faster.

Choosing Quality Stationary Air Bikes (Buyer's Guide)

Frame Durability/Quality Construction

If you're about to spend a few hundred dollars or more on exercise equipment, it's safe to say you want it to stand the test of time. Opting for a bike made from high-quality materials is a no brainer, as it will ensure your new bike will last for many years to come.

Prioritize bikes made from heavy-duty steel, which will help increase the stability of the bike. The last thing you want to happen when riding is for the bike to wobble or, even worse, lead to injuries.

Drive Type

Which is best is up for debate, so it really depends on your personal preference.

Resistance Levels

Unlike typical exercise bikes, a fan bike doesn't come with a way to manually change the resistance levels. Instead, the resistance can be adjusted based on how fast you pedal or move your arms.

Noise

If you're thinking of putting your new resistance bike in a small apartment, an air resistance bike may not be ideal. Because air resistance bikes include a fan, they tend to be noisier. This is because the harder you pedal, the stronger the fan speed and louder the noise.

Comfort & Seat Adjustability

One thing you don't want to sacrifice is comfort. When it comes to exercise bikes, that basically comes down to the seat. An uncomfortable seat can lead to sore muscles and injury, but overall it will put you off from using the bike.

As well as the seat, poorly positioned handlebars and the incorrect pedals can make for an uncomfortable ride, so make sure your bike can be adjusted to suit your height.

As a minimum, your bike seat should be able to be adjusted both vertically and horizontally and be wide enough for your build.

Dimensions & Storage Options

Like most exercise equipment, regular maintenance of your exercise bike can keep it running smoothly for many years to come. For that reason, it's a good idea to keep your bike somewhere accessible for easy access. Regular dusting or vacuuming will prevent a build-up of grime.

The most important thing is not to put your new bike somewhere that makes it a chore to use. The easier it is to use your new bike, the more likely you will use it. Vice-versa, add a ton of obstacles in your way, and it's just as easy to find a reason why you can't exercise today.

User Weight

Most bikes on the market can accommodate users up to a minimum of 250 lbs. Still, some specially designed models support 300 pounds or more.

Bikes with larger weight capacities tend to be more expensive but tend to last longer as they are made from durable, high-quality materials.

Ease Of Assembly & Required Maintenance

Mail order exercise bikes are designed to be easy to assemble. That being said, some are easier than others, so always double-check user reviews, especially if you're not too handy with DIY.

Thankfully, air resistance bikes are low maintenance. However, it's essential to keep your bike clean and free of dust to ensure it functions properly. Invest in a microfiber cloth and get in the habit of wiping down your equipment after use.

Investing in a high-quality gym mat to place underneath your exercise bike will help catch sweat as well as protecting your flooring from damage.

Extra Features

Extra features are a great way to make your workout more comfortable. While we consider features such as a water bottle holder and a basic visual display as essential, some bikes on the more expensive end come with smartphone holders, Bluetooth connectivity, built-in speakers, or even their own entertainment systems.

If you want to keep an eye on your specifics as you workout, opt for a machine with a built-in heart-rate monitor.

Price & Warranty

Like most exercise equipment, warranties are usually split up into one that covers the frame and one that covers the electronics. Ideally, you want the frame warranty to be as long as possible, while others should be at least a year.

As each model and brand differs, check the specifics of your bike before you buy. Understand what is covered under each model and consider extending the warranty if you think it necessary.

1. Schwinn Airdyne AD Pro

Best Air Bike

The Schwinn Airdyne Bike Series is a fantastic range of bikes, suitable for gym-goers from beginner to advanced. When it comes to the Best Air Bike, the Schwinn AD Pro steals the show.

The AD Pro boasts a belt drive for a smooth and almost silent workout, making it an excellent choice for smaller homes as you're less likely to bother those around you. The fan in this bike has been custom designed to create one of the most efficient workouts we have seen.

For those of us who want a simple machine, the AD Pro takes some beating. It comes complete with nine built-in HIIT programs that allow you to get on and go. The easy to read console comes with a tachometer to help you keep track of your progress.

The AD Pro also boasts a solid build, similar to a piece of equipment you would see in your local gym. The bike's body is double-coated steel, which also features moisture-repellent technology to prevent rusting and make cleaning a breeze.

The Schwinn also ticks all of our boxes when it comes to comfort. It's also effortless to adjust, making it a real winner for the entire family. While it's true it lacks some of the bells and whistles that some of the other models come with; it's a perfect entry-level model.

2. Assault AirBike Classic

Best rated air assault bike

Reading customer reviews is a great way to gauge how good a product is, and you'll be hard-pressed to find something better rated than this bike from Assault AirBike.

Thanks to the unique design of air bikes, the levels of resistance are entirely unlimited. Ready to push yourself harder? Simply start pedaling faster for an instant increase in the intensity. By combining an upper and lower body workout simultaneously, users get one of the most effective exercises possible, perfect for losing weight and toning muscles.

One thing we love about the Assault AirBike is the sheer number of in-built programs that cover a variety of different exercises. Whether you're looking for a Crossfit workout, an intense Tabata session, or simply a gentle ride, this machine does it all.

You can make use of the onboard computer to set goals, whether that be time, distance, or calories burned, to help ensure you get the perfect workout every time.

Another great feature is this machine's increased weight capacity. At 350 pounds, this bike can withstand everything that's thrown at it and more, a testament to its build quality.

Even better is that this assault bike is pretty affordable, leaving you money to spend on the rest of your home gym, such as a treadmill or weight benches.

3. Rogue Echo Bike

best air bike for crossfit

Crossfit fans will love the Rogue Echo Bike for home workouts, perfect for when you can't make it to the box.

One thing that's immediately clear about the Rogue Echo is how well made this bike is. Combining premium steel and advanced engineering techniques, Rogue Echo has created one of the most durable bikes we have ever tested.

You can really push yourself to the limits on this bike without any of the wobbling or unsteadiness some other models offer. The stability is further improved thanks to rubber feed added underneath the bike, which can also prevent damage to your flooring.

We also adore the aesthetics of the bike. The sleek, black frame adds a classy aesthetic to the bike that trumps most others on this list.

This sturdy frame allows it to support a massive 350-pound weight, making it ideal for heavier folk. The fan itself is incredibly quiet and provides a wonderful blast of fresh air as you progress through your training.

The crystal clear console provides all the typical feedback you could need during your workout, as well as several pre-programmed workouts, perfect for when you're in a rush.

4. Concept2 BikeErg 2900

top of the range

Looking for something that does it all? The Concept2 BikeErg 2900 comes packed with features that make it a solid buy if you're looking for a top of the range model.

The Concept2 boasts an effortlessly adjustable seat height and handlebar positions to suit a whole range of users. These features make it ideal for use in a shared gym where several family members may be using the equipment.

One of the most significant selling points of this bike is the ultra-light aluminum frame, which is both lightweight yet durable. While aluminum won't give steel a run for its money, it's a great choice if you're going to be storing your bike away after each use.

A unique feature of the Concept2 is that workouts can be backed up to a USB drive to allow you to keep track of your progress. As well as that, the bike is Bluetooth compatible and can connect to your preferred fitness app such as Apple Health or Google Fit, as well as the bike's own app, ErgData. It can also be connected to the Zwift app for virtual rides around the globe.

For complete customization, the Concept2 allows you to replace pretty much every part of the bike with your preferred bike parts. Have a comfortable seat you can't live without? Simply switch your Concept2 seat out, and off you go.

5. Marcy AIR-1

best upright air bike

An upright bike is a perfect way to replicate an outdoor right from the comfort of your own home. Instead of being arched over, upright bikes keep you in an upright position (surprise, surprise) that works out the exact same muscle groups you would if you were out on the road.

Now when we say this bike is durable, that is an understatement. The frame features a premium 14-gauge steel tubing that is scratch resistant, helping this bike look good as new for years to come.

The Marcy also boasts one of the most high-tech monitors we tested. Not only is it crystal clear and easy to read in bright sunlight, but it also allows the effortless tracking of your workouts.

One of the great things about using fans for resistance is that it doubles as a typical fan, helping you keep you cool as you train. We also found this bike very comfortable to ride, thanks to its foam seat, foam-covered handlebars, and adjustable foot straps.

Many customers love using this bike for Cross-Fit workouts thanks to its dual handlebars, allowing you to work out your entire body.

6. Sunny Health & Fitness Tornado SF-B2729

best air bike for home gym

Whether you're putting together your home gym for the first time or simply replacing some of your older equipment, the Sunny Health & Fitness Tornado is a wise choice for home use.

For one, it's incredibly compact, making it ideal for garage-based gyms or simply smaller homes. Its onboard digital monitor supports tracking of your RPM, speed, time, and heart rate.

The design of the handlebars on this model makes for a very comfortable workout, indeed. At the same time, the 4-way adjustable seat allows you to find a position to suit your body type. We love the oversized pedals, coated in a non-slip surface, to increase stability and limit the risk of accidents.

The bike supports ready to go workouts on its onboard computer, but it's also possible to quickly create a custom routine based on your own design. Here, you can pre-program an activity based on your own interval and rest length, so it's ready to go the next time you work out.

Track your heart rate thanks to the built-in monitor, which is a nice feature that most other models we review lacked.

The only downside is the chain drive, which can be a little noisy at times. For that reason, it's best to place your air bike in a room where it won't disturb others.

7. XTERRA Fitness AIR350 Airbike

best budget airbike

Not all of us can afford to go out there and splash thousands of dollars on a new exercise bike. Even if you can, that doesn't mean to say you should. Thankfully, there are many great exercise bikes available to suit a range of different budgets, and the little brother to the XTERRA AIR650 wins our award at the lower end.

The AIR350 is super easy to use, complete with a 6-blade flywheel that allows for infinite resistance levels. It comes with padded handles and wide foot pedals to increase comfort, with the added benefit of transportation wheels to help you move the equipment around your home.

This bike can accommodate a range of heights, from 4'7" - 6'2", making it an excellent air bike in a shared home, where everyone can use it no matter their size.

Despite being low in price, it comes with a large screen that can help you keep your workouts on track. The onboard computer tracks everything from time, distance, and calories.

Whether you're a complete beginner just setting out on your fitness journey or an athlete in training, the AIR350 is a beautiful companion that can help you to smash your goals.

8. RESOLVE FITNESS R1

best commercial grade air bike

Last but by no means least is the Resolve Fitness R1. Look familiar? That's because you've probably seen this brand, or one very like it, in your local gym. Not only is this bike incredibly well built, but it's super comfortable too. It comes with a 4-way adjustable seat for complete control over your ride. Its ergonomic design further increases its comfort.

With the Resolve fitness bike, you can also isolate your upper or lower body, thanks to its multi-grip handlebars footpegs. These allow you to rest your arms and legs and focus your efforts on your target muscle group. It also comes with 12 levels of magnetic tension, perfect for beginners to advanced users.

The Resolve is one of our favorite bikes for high-intensity interval training (HIIT) as it comes with 3 built-in programs (20/10, 30/90, and a custom program) that deliver an efficient and effective workout.

The easy to read backlit LCD screen gives you immediate feedback on your performance. At the same time, the BlueTooth compatibility supports syncing with your own device.

As a commercial-grade piece of equipment, this is definitely not the cheapest exercise bike so keep that in mind when making your decision.

Air Bikes Vs. Other Exercise Bikes

Air Bike Vs. Recumbent Bike

An air bike combines both your legs and arms for an effective full-body workout. Air bikes also use a fan to generate wind resistance. Instead of turning the resistance up or down manually, all you need to do is pedal faster or slower.

Because of their intensity, air bikes are often used in Crossfit or HIIT programs.

A recumbent bike is ideal for those with back pain or joint problems, as they support a low to moderate intensity workout. They typically have manually controlled resistance that uses magnets to increase or decrease the intensity of your workout.

Fans of recumbent bikes often say they barely feel as if they are exercising, allowing them to workout longer and burn more calories.

Air Bike Vs. Spin Bike

Air bikes rely on constant motion, using both your arms and legs to push and pull the flywheel forward. Spin bikes allow you to "free-wheel," which means you can take a break from pedaling when you need to catch your breath.

Air Bike workouts are often more intense, achieving the same results in a shorter time. A spin bike is the equivalent of riding a bike on the street.

Air bikes are also uncomplicated to use, while spin bikes can often take some time to get used to.

Air Bike Vs. Upright Bikes

Upright bikes make use of magnets, where air bikes use a fan to generate resistance. Upright bikes mimic a typical road cycle, whereas air bikes are designed for a complete full-body workout, making use of your arms as well as your legs to increase efficiency.

Air Bikes Vs. Other Cardio Fitness Equipment

Air Bikes vs. Treadmills

While both air bikes and treadmills offer an effective cardiovascular workout, if you're suffering from joint issues or back pain, using a treadmill may be out of the question.

On the other hand, air bikes offer a low impact cardiovascular workout, which is much kinder on the knees and hips. Not to mention, air bikes often take up less room than typical treadmills - perfect for smaller spaces.

Air bikes also provide a full-body workout, unlike treadmills that are mainly a cardiovascular form of exercise.

Air Bikes Vs. Rowing Machines

The main difference between an air bike and rower is that you give your body a chance to (semi) recover between each stride in a rower. On an air bike, you are continually working your entire body. Those looking for an intense workout will therefore prefer an air bike.

Whether you decide to invest in an air bike or rower, you should plan your space accordingly. If you're working with a smaller space, you can consider compact or foldaway models that can be stored when not in use.

Generally speaking, there are air bikes and rowing machines available in a range of budgets, so one is not typically more expensive than the other.

Those that suffer from back pain will probably prefer an air bike over a rower. The main reason is that your back stays in a relatively upright position throughout the exercise on a bike. On a rower, your upper body is continuously moving between each motion, which can aggravate back problems.

Air Bikes Vs. Ellipticals

While both provide a low impact workout, many people who suffer from joint problems find an elliptical trainer much easier to use. Ellipticals can help reduce lower back pain as it works to strengthen your thighs, quads, and calves.

Air bikes provide a more intense, Crossfit style workout, which is great if that's what you are looking for. Because they use air to create resistance, they have unlimited resistance options that can easily be adjusted, unlike a manually operated recliner.

Air Bike Assembly

Adjusting your seat should be the first thing you do before you sit on your bike. A poorly positioned seat can lead to bad posture on the bike, leading to an increased risk of injury and an ineffective workout.

Adjusting the seat should be easy enough to do. It usually involves loosening a pinch bolt underneath the saddle and moving to your desired position. But how do you know the right position?

First, get on your bike and place your feet on the pedals, moving one foot to the bottom of the rotation. At the bottom, your leg should be slightly bent. If your leg is too bent, you need to raise the seat height, too straight, and you should lower it.

Air Bike Workouts

Check out three of our favorite, simple air bike workouts.

15 Calorie Sprint

We love this exercise as it's super simple. One of the great things about air bikes is that you know precisely how many calories you are burning, thanks to the onboard computers.

For this exercise, all you need to do is burn 15 calories as quickly as possible and improve your time each session.

Sounds easy, right? Give it a go, and then tell us how you feel.

Calorie Melter

Another simple workout is the calorie melter - it starts simple but trust us, this one gets challenging fast.

...and so on, adding 2 extra calories each minute, for as long as you can last.

The 8/15 Workout

Sprint for 8 seconds, followed by a 15-second rest, repeat 6 times in total for the ultimate calorie-burning session.

Other Workouts

Tabata Intervals

Tabata is an incredibly effective exercise performed at high-intensity. It comprises eight sets of fast-paced exercises, each performed for 20 seconds with 10 seconds of rest between each session.

One of our favorite Tabata workouts is Sunny Health & Fitness.

HIIT Intervals

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is similar to Tabata. It consists of short bursts of intense exercise followed by less intense exercise or a short rest. It is more intense and therefore tiring than traditional workouts - but the great news is that it's over before you know it!

Continuous MISS (Moderate intensity steady state cardio)

MISS refers to any physical activity that produces a heart rate ranging from 140- 160 BPM. Examples of MISS include jogging, elliptical, or a less intense session on your air bike.

MISS cardio can increase endurance and help to reduce stress.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Why are air bikes so expensive?

Good quality air bikes are made from high-quality, industrial materials such as heavy-gauge steel, which can be expensive. Although there are a range of exercise bikes available to suit many different budgets, always understand that you are probably making a trade-off on quality by opting for a cheaper model.

We always turn to Amazon for high-quality exercise equipment, as we find its selection unrivaled.

Who makes the best air bikes?

Honestly, you can't go wrong with any of the brands on our list. Schwinn, Sunny Health and Fitness, and Concept2 are just some of our favorites.

How long should I exercise on an air bike?

This is entirely dependent on your current fitness level. Those that are new to working out should start slowly and increase their sessions gradually. We find that a 30-minute session 3 times a week is a perfect length.

How many calories can you burn in an air bike?

How much effort you put in relates to exactly how much effort you get out. In other words, the harder you work, the more calories you burn. The world record stands at 87 calories per minute, but we advise starting off slow before you go trying to go for gold.

Conclusion

So there you have it, all you will ever need to know about air bikes. We love the Schwinn Airdyne AD Pro and recommend this bike to all of our readers looking for a piece of equipment that ticks all of the boxes. That being said, any of the 7 other bikes are worthy contenders for your hard-earned cash, so whichever you decide, we are confident you will be more than happy.