Best Air Bike 2024: 9 Fan Bikes for High-Intensity Workouts

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Walk into a commercial gym or open a fitness enthusiast’s social media, and you’re likely to come across an air bike. Such is its popularity that it has become the go-to equipment for just about anyone tired of the traditional bicycle.

While the name may suggest otherwise, air bikes are anything but a breeze. This fitness equipment is an excellent addition to your home gym, providing a fun way to spice up your cardio workouts.

Keep reading to find out all there is to know about these bikes and ensure you get one of the best air bikes on the market.

What is an Air Bike?

Bikes have long been staple equipment for many fitness enthusiasts. As a result, the fitness industry has churned out many devices similar to the road bike, including the air bike. While you may have seen this item woo the fitness world, the question still stands — what is it exactly?

An air bike is a stationary bike featuring handles that move in sync with your pedals, which differentiate it from other bikes. This unique mechanism allows users to enjoy a full-body workout across various muscles.

In short, it’s the lovechild of an elliptical and a traditional bike, which many may look at as Frankenstein’s monster for how taxing it is — albeit with great rewards. You may also hear people refer to it as a “fan exercise bicycle” as it features a fan in front instead of a wheel.

Unlike other bikes, the air bike can easily alternate between high-intensity workouts as it all depends on you. The device uses the push-pull-push mechanism, which means that the faster you pedal, the more intense the training, and vice versa. This helps burn calories and work on your muscle groups too.

Furthermore, it has unlimited resistance that solely relies on how fast you pedal.

9 Best Air Bikes for Home Gyms

It’s easy to explain and learn what an air bike is, but purchasing one is not quite as simple. The market is full of these devices, making your decision-making process trickier than it should be.

Before buying an air bike, you must consider various factors, including your budget, space, build quality, and more.

Luckily, you don’t have to worry about all these or spend hours researching every air bike on the market. We’ve pedaled ahead and tested many air bikes to develop a comprehensive list of the nine you should choose from. The list includes a large variety of options that will suit different users.

Rogue Echo Bike

Rating: 4.9

• Dimensions: 58.8” x 29.7” x 52.75”
• Performance tracking: Yes
• Weight limit: 350 lbs
• Price: $$$

The Rogue Echo Bike is a fixture on any list of the best air bikes, and for good reason. During testing, we found that this beefy unit’s steel frame construction was sturdy enough not to wobble even when we tried pedaling at breakneck speeds.

A tradeoff for this sturdiness is its massive size, which takes up quite a lot of space. Despite that, it’s easy to move, thanks to the featured wheels.

The overbuilt air bike features an LCD monitor, which we used to track our performance and set a variety of goals. While not a concern for us, the curved handles are a welcome design for tall people who may otherwise have mobility issues.

• Steel construction
• Highly adjustable seat
• Rubber grip handles
• LCD monitor
• Curved handles
• Transportation wheels
• Product weight: 127lbs

Compared to other air bikes we tested, this Rogue exercise bike undoubtedly had the best stability. Also, the seat is adjustable eight different ways vertically and five ways horizontally. And, the handles are covered in rubber, ensuring comfort throughout use.

The adjustability will come in handy if you won’t be the only one using the device, although certain people may find the Rogue fan bike too big for them regardless.

To our surprise, this didn’t come with the convenient extras that some cheaper alternatives do. However, you can add a phone holder, bottle holder, and wind guard at an extra cost.

Schwinn Airdyne AD7

Rating: 4.8

• Dimensions: 54.5” x 34” x 53”
• Performance tracking: Yes
• Weight limit: 350 lbs
• Price: $$$

Schwinn is synonymous with quality in the fitness world, and the Airdyne AD7 didn’t disappoint. Schwinn claims that this device’s frame is built to last 10 years with corrosion-resistant steel. While only time will tell in that regard, we can confidently say we found the build to be super sturdy, and it handled high-intensity workouts well.

Despite its robust build, moving this device won’t be a hassle thanks to the wheels it comes with. Compared to some other air bikes, we really appreciate the LCD’s size as it allows for easy viewing, even with some sweat in your eyelashes.

• Steel construction
• Adjustable seat
• Rubber grip handles
• LCD monitor
• Transport wheels
• Product weight: 113lbs

While we like the comfort afforded by the rubber grip handles and adjustable seat, people with long legs are likely to feel discomfort from the non-curved handles. If you aren’t used to assembling items like this, you may have a hard time putting it together.

Once assembled, be ready for full-body workouts accompanied by one of the quietest air bikes on the market. While there’s still some noise that will naturally be made while exercising, spouses, pets, and children alike will love the quiet.

ASSAULTFITNESS AirBike Elite

Rating: 4.8

• Dimensions: 55” x 26.26” x 55.08”
• Performance tracking: Yes
• Weight limit: 350 lbs
• Price: $$$

During testing, we found that this Assault bike is rivaled only by the Rogue Echo Bike when it comes to stability. It’s also a big, sturdy device with a weight capacity to match, all supported by transport wheels.

That isn’t to say that it saves space, though, as its dimensions won’t work in space-conscious home gyms.

If you are frequently engaging in high-intensity workouts, you’ll love the removable windscreen, which keeps the air from your face. Its mounted LCD console is one of the best we’ve come across, blowing run-of-the-mill LCD monitors out of the water.

• Steel construction
• Adjustable seat
• LCD screen
• Product weight: 139lbs
• Features an instruction manual

Given its price, the saddle’s quality was quite disappointing as it slipped off between exercises and wasn’t the most comfortable. Still, we wouldn’t trade away this device for that reason, and the issue can easily be fixed with a replacement seat.

Compared to other offerings, this air Assault bike comes with a Bluetooth connection, allowing us to use the Assault Fitness App for exercise ideas. While not made for beginners, this makes it a perfect bike to purchase if you’re new and know you’ll be using it for the long haul.

ASSAULTFITNESS Assault AirBike Classic

Rating: 4.5

• Dimensions: 51” x 23.34” x 48.4”
• Performance tracking: Yes
• Weight limit: 350 lbs
• Price: $$$

The Assault AirBike Classic is the Elite’s little brother, despite being released earlier. It’s a smaller, less expensive version of the Elite that doesn’t compromise too much on quality.

As you may expect from ASSAULTFITNESS, the device boasts a steel construction that ensures sturdiness and a lengthy lifespan. It uses that robust build to hold up the joint-highest weight capacity of any air bike we tested.

Short people, in particular, will love this bike as the pedals are easy to reach, and the comfortable seat is easy to adjust for optimum performance. One letdown, though, was that this Assault air bike uses a chain drive, which meant that it was a bit loud and was harder to maintain.

• Steel construction
• LCD screen
• Adjustable seat
• Curved handles
• Product weight: 98lbs

As with similar models, stability isn’t an issue with this Assault air bike. However, it’s not quite as stable as the Rogue Echo Bike or the Elite, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth buying.

On a favorable note, this bike is smaller than the Echo Bike and the Elite, meaning it’s easier to store. Also, it has one of the best LCD monitors for keeping track of how you’re performing throughout your intervals. While short on extras, you can get a windscreen attachment at a surcharge.

Schwinn Fitness Airdyne AD2

Rating: 4.4

• Dimensions: 50” x 25” x 46”
• Performance tracking: Yes
• Weight limit: 250lbs
• Price: $$

If you aren’t ready to spend big on the Airdyne AD7, opt for its little sister, the Airdyne AD2. While not the same quality, the AD2 also boasts a sturdy build with similar technology, although it’s a bit louder. A pleasant surprise was that the entry-level Schwinn air bike featured footrests for isolating the upper body, which the AD7 doesn’t feature.

While smaller than those found on other air bikes, its LCD screen did its job perfectly, tracking the most important metrics. The device’s compact build is perfect for people who’re constantly on the move, as hauling it on its wheels was a breeze.

• Adjustable seat
• Rubber grip handles
• Transport wheels
• LCD screen
• It comes with stationary footrests
• Product weight: 93 lbs

Despite its smaller build, wobbling while working out wasn’t an issue for us and shouldn’t be for you either. Frankly, you wouldn’t have to worry about that, though, as the resistance offered by this bike is less than others. This means even if you put the pedal to the “metal”, there’s little risk of affecting stability.

The seat, along with the rubber handles, is comfy and adjustable, which is a plus if several people will be using the bike.

The Marcy Fan Exercise Bike is the best budget air bike if you’re just starting out with this kind of workout equipment. It’s a basic device ready to help you work out your entire body without any frills, but the air resistance is far from matching the expensive bikes. Be sure to use the resistance knob if you feel like you aren’t challenged enough.

Despite being a budget offering, you still get to enjoy comfortable usage with rubber grips and curved handles to ensure your knees don’t get in the way. The anti-slip pedals and belt ensure that your feet fit snuggly while pushing yourself.

• LCD
• Adjustable seat
• Non-slip pedals
• Curved handles
• Product weight: 58lbs

While testing it out, we didn’t find stability to be a concern at all. However, we felt its lightweight build wobble and move while working out on a tile surface, meaning you may need to get a carpet specifically for it.

The LCD screen is as basic as they come, allowing users to track time, distance, speed, and calories burnt per session. The seat also felt like a run-of-the-mill saddle offering minor discomfort, which isn’t a dealbreaker.

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This stationary air bike is the perfect home gym companion for people with small frames. Despite its construction with alloy steel, it boasts a lightweight build that even beginners can easily transport from one spot to another using the wheels.

Unlike the other air bikes that we tested, this device uses both belt and chain drives. The chain drive gave the feel of a traditional exercise bike and made some noise, while the belt drive surprisingly wasn’t too noisy — compared to similar bikes at these price points, at least. As you may expect, the chain drive requires more maintenance than the belt drive.

We also appreciated the non-slip pedal design, as this ensured that our feet stayed in place even when we tried to pedal as fast as possible.

• Alloy steel construction
• Curved handles
• Transportation wheels
• Non-slip pedals
• Product weight: 60lbs
• Height-adjustable seat

Of the ones we tested, this stationary bike with a fan is easily one of the easiest to store or travel with. It boasts a compact build that doesn’t weigh much, all supported by transportation wheels. Following in the footsteps of other comfortable air bikes, the device comes with curved handles that keep your knees safe.

The saddle is uber wide, but this isn’t enough to take away from how uncomfortable it is. We took care of that issue by using a different seat.

You can do the same, so it’s not a dealbreaker. On the positive side, you can adjust the seat to maximize comfort or share it with others.

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If comfort is of utmost importance to you, then give the Body Rider BRF980 a chance. Like other air bikes, the seat is adjustable, but it comes with a backrest that offers back support and ensures you’re in an upright posture at all times.

The only letdown here is that it’s angled awkwardly, meaning shorter people won’t have the greatest time with it. Although, it certainly won’t be useless.

Compared to other air bikes, this device’s fan was considerably louder, however you can escape this plight by putting on some headphones. You can easily cycle through your playlists with your phone thanks to the well-placed phone holder.

• LCD monitor
• Adjustable seat with backrest
• Curved handles
• Phone holder
• Transport wheels

After an air bike exercise session, storage is a breeze as the BRF980 is one of the smallest air bikes we tested. Its lightweight build, combined with the transport wheels, make storing the unit a breeze.

The LCD does its job in tracking the metrics, but the contrast could be better for visibility. Another positive with this item is how easy it was to assemble, taking less than three hours from arrival to being ready for use.

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Rounding out the list of the best assault bikes is the Body Rider BRF750, which is a great budget selection. If not for prior knowledge, we wouldn’t be able to distinguish between this device and mid-range air bikes — it’s that good.

It features several resistance settings, which means that beginners, intermediate, and experienced users can enjoy the spoils. However, we must note that the amount of resistance on offer isn’t on par with some of the most expensive air bikes.

• LCD screen
• Adjustable seat
• Curved handles
• Product weight: 47lbs

While a budget pick, stability isn’t an issue to be concerned about as the foundation stuck to our floor like glue. Additionally, it’s one of the air bikes that are easiest to store, thanks to a lightweight build. However, the lack of transport wheels meant that moving the device was a bit of a hassle.

Like most budget air bikes, the seat was a little uncomfortable and would often slant upwards after repeated use. Also, it’s rather small compared to other seats.

As a result, we had to change the seat entirely to ensure that our buttocks weren’t feeling the same pain — with no reward at that — as our muscles.

On the bright side, the performance tracker did a great job of showing us the metrics for various sessions. On the LCD monitor, we could see the amounts of calories burned, time spent, distance pedaled, and the speed we were going at.

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Benefits of Air Bikes

Air bikes have caught the attention of home gym enthusiasts across the globe and show no signs of slowing down in popularity. The stationary fan bike offers users a variety of health benefits, including the following.

Enjoy a full body workout

Unlike other exercise bikes, including the traditional bicycle, air bikes come with handles that move in sync with the pedals. This means that this incredible device provides you with a full-body workout, which you won’t get with most alternatives.

When using an air bike, you’ll be working on muscle groups like your biceps, quadriceps, calves, shoulders, core, and more. Thanks to its varied intensity, you can use this device as a way to warm up your muscles before other exercises.

Boost cardiovascular health

Cycling has long been touted as a way for people to improve their cardiovascular health, especially if they can’t do other cardio workouts. A study found that in areas where cycling to work became common, there were reduced rates of heart attacks.

The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of aerobic activity per week, which you can achieve with the air bike. You don’t have to be a fitness buff to get started with this device, as it’s beginner-friendly. Start pedaling at a low intensity, then ramp your way up as you get more comfortable.

Weight loss

An air bike is a great investment if you’re trying to lose weight. This home workout equipment is renowned for its ability to burn calories, even with low-intensity workouts.

You can shed up to 80 calories a minute depending on your workout intensity — pretty neat, right? According to Shape, the air bike can burn calories up to 1.5 times more than alternatives like stationary bikes.

We can attest to this as it left us more winded than our runs, swimming, and other cardio exercises. We found ourselves using it for shorter stints as a result.

Safer than road cycling

While road cycling has long been a favorite for fitness enthusiasts, it’s not exactly safe. According to the National Safety Council, over 1 000 bicyclists suffered bike-related deaths (in 2020), with a majority of incidents involving motor vehicles.

With an air bike, you can enjoy all the fun of cycling without the dangers of poor visibility, unreliable roads, and reckless drivers.

Best Fan Bike Buying Guide

Before buying an air bike, there are certain factors you have to consider. These factors are what separate run-of-the-mill bikes and the elite.

Stability

Stability is of utmost importance when buying an air bike. Air bikes tend to move a lot between pedaling, pushing, and pulling. As a result, you must look for a heavy one that won’t wobble with every action. That’s where Rogue’s overbuilt designs come in useful.

Storability

Air bikes are heavy and large, meaning storability is essential. Unless you have the unit positioned in one area for its lifespan, look for one with wheels so you can move it easily.

Seat/saddle

Along with stability, comfort is one aspect of an air bike that one shouldn’t compromise on. 99% of all comfort depends on the seat, meaning you’ll need a good one.

If you won’t be the only person using the air bike, ensure the bike comes with custom seat adjustments.

Air Bike Extras

Additional features aren’t necessary, but they’re welcome additions to any purchase. Air bikes can come with an LCD screen measuring various metrics or bottle holders, among other things.

Type of drive

Modern air bikes come with belt drives as opposed to the chain drives that the first few iterations of air bikes came with. Compared to the latter, belt drives make less noise and are low maintenance.

Luckily, every air bike here except the ASSAULTFITNESS Classic and the Sunny Health & Fitness Zephyr come with belt drives.

Air Bike Exercise Options

Unlike other pieces of home gym equipment, air bikes aren’t complex to use at all. And, they aren’t saturated with exercises that take rocket science to master.

Anyone from beginner level to competitive cyclists can expect to reap the rewards of a good workout, whether they’re engaged in HIIT or LISS workouts.

When using an air bike, you can work on various muscles both in the upper and lower body. These include calves, biceps, triceps, glutes, hip flexors, quads, hamstrings, and more.

Just hopping on the bike and moving your arms and legs will work at either muscle group, all at your own pace. You can even isolate the two by doing exercises that focus on the upper or lower body only.

These are a few exercise options that you can use with the air bike.

• High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)
• Low-Intensity Steady State (LISS) workouts
• Isolated arm and shoulder exercises
• Isolated leg exercises
• CrossFit training
• Pre-workout warmups

Best Fan Bikes Summary

Well, there it is, a comprehensive list of the best air bikes on the market. The industry is saturated with fan bikes, meaning finding the best ones is like looking for a needle in a haystack.

At the start of your search, you may find the options too overwhelming — do you go with the Assault bike, Rogue Echo Bike, or a budget option?

We hope this guide has helped you select the best air bike for your needs. With one of these devices at your disposal, you’re sure to reach your fitness goal in no time.

So, what are you waiting for? Get one now and pedal your way to great health.