Schwinn Airdyne Pro Vs. Rogue Echo Bike (Air Bikes Compared)

Air exercise bikes are a type of stationary bike that uses large fans to create resistance as you pedal. They're pretty common, so you'll have probably seen one before in the gym without giving a second thought to how they create their resistance.

Today, we're taking a look at two of the most popular models of air exercise bikes, the Schwinn AD Pro and the Rogue Echo Bike.

If you're tossing up whether you should buy an air exercise bike, read on for the ultimate guide.

Here is a quick comparison of the features of the Schwinn AD Pro and the Rogue Echo Bike. If you're in a rush, this easy to read comparison can help you to make a quick decision:

Feature

Rogue Echo Bike

Schwinn Airdyne Pro

Preview

ROGUE ECHO BIKE

Schwinn Fitness AD Pro Airdyne Bike

Drive System

Belt driven fan
(Tie)

Belt driven fan
(Tie)

Noise Level

Silent
(Winner)

Quiet

Frame

Black powder-coated steel frame
(Winner)

Standard steel frame

Programs

0 programs

9 programs
(Winner)

Handles

Rubber grip armbar handles

Multi-grip armbar handles
(Winner)

Price

Cheaper
(Winner)

More Expensive

Size

29.875” W x 58.875” L x 52.75” H

20” W x 42” L x 52” H
(Winner)

User Weight

350 lbs.
(Tie)

350 lbs.
(Tie)

Warranty

2-year frame and parts warranty

20-year frame warranty, 2-year parts & electronics, and 6-month labor.
(Winner)

Check Price


Side-by-Side Comparison: Echo Bike vs. Airdyne Pro

To determine a winner between the AD Pro and the Echo Bike, we compared their most popular features by putting them head to head against each other.

The decisions we made are based entirely on our own opinion, so you might not always agree with us here. However, we based our views on what we know our customers value most, so it's a good rule of thumb guide if you're entirely new to home gym equipment.

To ensure you purchase something you will enjoy using, it's helpful to understand some of the key features you can expect and what you should look for.

Let's dive into those now.

Durability & Build Quality

The Rogue Echo Bike has proven to use superior workmanship and high-quality materials compared to the Schwinn AD Pro.

Although both boast mainly metal construction, the Echo Bike is more solid, which helps to cut down on the squeaking, which many customers complain about with the Schwinn. The Echo Bike is sturdier than its competition, mainly because of its powder-coated steel frame.

Powder-coating enhances a metal frame's longevity by making it resistant to environmental factors such as moisture and humidity.

User Weight & Height Needs

Both the Schwinn AD Pro and the Rogue Echo Bike have a max user weight of 350-pounds – which is more than sufficient for most users.

Both air exercise bikes also come equipped with four-way adjustable seats, accommodating users between 4'8" to 6'2".

No clear winner here!

Size of Unit & Portability

The Schwinn AD Pro is roughly 10-inches shorter in both length and width than the Echo Bike, so those short on space may prefer the Schwinn model.

Both share the same height, with wheels on the front for ease of transport.

Workout Programs & Resistance Levels

Because the Echo Bike and the AD Pro share the same belt-driven fan, they offer infinite resistance levels. This endless source of tension will forever give you a challenging workout.

However, the AD Pro comes with 9 built-in programs to prevent your training from becoming repetitive.

Seat & Handles

Both the Schwinn AD Pro and the Rogue Echo Bike have the same stationary seat design. Both seats adjust in four directions to help you completely customize the ride to your preference.

And say goodbye to saddle soreness as both come with a comfortable padded saddle.

The handles of the Schwinn AD Pro offer multi-grip positioning, unlike the Rogue Echo. While many users will do just fine with the single position handlebars, a multi-grip position is undoubtedly more comfortable.

Ease of Use

When it comes to ease of use, the Rogue Echo Bike beats the Schwinn AD Pro, hands down. While the AD Pro does start at the push of a button, the layout of the metrics (speed, calories burned, etc.) isn't as easy to navigate as the Rogue Echo Bike.

And the oversimplified design of the Echo Bike's LCD console allows you to get on and go without wasting any time.

Value for Money

We think that the Rogue Echo Bike offers more value than the Schwinn AD Pro.

That is because the Echo Bike has pretty much the same features as the AD Pro while also improving upon some aspects. With the Rogue Echo, you get a bike with superior frame quality and a silent resistance mechanism. When you consider that the Rogue is cheaper than the Schwinn, it is really a no-brainer.

You can use the extra hundred or so bucks you would save with the Echo Bike to buy accessories to improve your riding experience.

Noise Levels

Though the Schwinn AD Pro and the Rogue Echo Bike are both quiet air exercise bikes, the Echo Bike is the clear winner here.

While you will sometimes hear squeaks in the AD Pro, the Echo is whisper-quiet.

Compatibility with Tech

Neither the Schwinn AD Pro nor the Rogue Echo Bike comes with Bluetooth connectivity, which is a real shame for those looking to pair their fitness trackers with their new bike. That being said, the Echo is compatible with a wireless heart monitor that connects to the bike.

While some may be disappointed by the lack of tech, don't let that put you off. There are many third-party options (such as Peloton and Zwift) that don't need to be connected to your bike to work flawlessly.

Warranty

The Schwinn AD Pro beats the Rogue Echo Bike when it comes to warranty, thanks to an industry-leading 20-year warranty on the frame.

Extra Bike Features

The Rogue Echo Bike comes fitted with a wind guard to minimize the breeze the fan creates, and it also has a phone holder to prop up your device while riding. You can also customize the types of pedals used, depending on if you train in regular sneakers or cleats.

But all of these features are sold separately, meaning they will add to the overall price of the bike. In our opinion, it's still a lot better than the AD Pro, which comes very stripped back, with just a cup holder and not much else.


Pros of These Air Exercise Bikes

What We Like

Airdyne Pro
  • Multi-grip handlebars
  • Incredible warranty
  • Four-way adjustable seat
  • 9 pre-programmed exercise routines
  • Accessory tray
Rogue Echo
  • Noiseless belt drive system
  • Powder-coated steel frame
  • Reasonably priced
  • Compatible with wireless heart rate monitor

Cons Of These Air Exercise Bikes

What We Didn't Like

Airdyne Pro
  • No bluetooth connectivity
  • Pricier than the echo bike
  • Suboptimal frame quality
Rogue Echo
  • No bluetooth connectivity
  • Short warranty
  • Fixed single grip position

Assembling & Using These Air Bikes

If you're familiar with the Schwinn brand, then you know that assembling Schwinn equipment is a breeze, as they primarily come prebuilt. For an extra cost, Schwinn also provides an in-home assembly for ultimate convenience.

Although Rogue Fitness doesn't come with an in-home assembly option, we don't think you would need it anyway. Assembling the Rogue Echo Bike is just as convenient as the Schwinn Airdyne Pro. Like the AD Pro, the Echo comes complete with all the tools and a detailed manual to help you fix up your new bike.

If you find yourself stuck, check this video.


People Also Ask (FAQs)

Can I connect these air bikes to a wellness app?

Although neither bike will connect directly to any wellness apps, you can still use on-demand workout programs such as Peloton or Zwift.

Schwinn offers its own training app called 'Explore the World', which allows you to virtually ride around the globe, all from the comfort of your own home.

Are there any other accessories I need to buy with these bikes?

As well as the correct exercise gear, you may wish to add some accessories to your bike to make your ride more comfortable.

As the Echo is compatible with a heart rate monitor, you may wish to pick up a specially designed strap to keep an eye on your performance as you work out. An Echo Bike wind guard could also help to make your workout more comfortable.

If you don't have a fitness tracker, picking one up will help you keep track of your workouts and monitor your progress.

Where can I find a good Schwinn AD Pro/Rogue Echo workout?

Look nowhere else than in the bikes themselves! The AD Pro comes with 9 training programs built into it to keep you engaged in your workout.

Although the Echo Bike doesn't offer any programs, it does come with a mode for HIIT training to spice up your workout with an intense challenge.

There are a ton of third-party apps that can also make your workout much more exciting.

Where can I find the manual for these models of air bikes?

The manual for both bikes comes inside the box. Though, if you lose the manual by any chance, there is an online PDF for both, available on each of the brand's websites. 

Where is the best place to buy these air bikes?

You can pick up the AD Pro and the Rogue Echo Bike from online stores such as Amazon or second-hand from places such as eBay and Craigslist.

Schwinn and Rogue Fitness also have their own websites where you can purchase their complete catalog of fitness equipment.


Conclusion

The Schwinn Airdyne Pro and the Rogue Echo Bike are excellent air exercise bikes, with plenty of must-have features that will take your workout to new heights.

If you're still uncertain which bike is the best for you, then we recommend the Rogue Echo Bike as it comes with most of the benefits of the AD Pro, but at a much lower price.

Last Updated on February 22, 2023