Best Airbikes 2022 | TreadmillReviewGuru.com (2023)

Sidney Kaiser

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Last updated: November 21, 2022

If you're looking for a serious cardio workout, or want to incorporate short, intense bursts of cardio into your at-home workout routine, consider getting an airbike. Airbikes, also commonly referred to as fan bikes or even "misery machines," get your heart beating faster and offer you many benefits.

Most airbikes have arms that move along with the pedals, giving you a full-body workout that's also low-impact. You can even train specifically if you want to focus on one area of ​​your body at a time. Our team of gurus compiled this listThe best air bikesso you can explore these machines and find the right one for you.

Why you should trust us

At Treadmill Review Guru, our goal is to give you the knowledge you need to make informed purchasing decisions. As fitness experts ourselves, we want you to actually use and enjoy the equipment you buy. Movement comes in all kinds of forms, so we try to test as many types of devices as possible. You are sure to find a form that suits you.

We're excited to get into airbikes and help those who want one for their home gym find a bike they'll love and maybe hate just because they're so tough.

Here are the best airbikes of 2022

• Best Airbike Overall - Assault Fitness AssaultBike Elite
• Best Overbuilt Air Bike - Rogue Fitness Rogue Echo Bike
• Best Airdyne Bike - Schwinn Airdyne AD7 Pro
• Bestes Budget Air Bike – Titan Fitness Fan Bike
• Best Magnetic Resistance Airbike - Xebex AirPlus Expert Bike 3.0 Smart Connect
• Best air bike without arms: – Concept 2 Bike ERG
• Second Place for Best Assault Bike – Assault Fitness AssaultBike Pro
• Best Airbike with Multi-Grip Handle - XTERRA AIR650 Airbike Pro
• Best Budget Runner-Up - Tru Grit Air Resistance Grit Exercise Bike

Sneak Peek of the Best Airbikes:

The best airbikes of 2022 - Our experts' top recommendations

Check out our top picks and what factors to consider before bringing home an airbike.

1.Bestes Airbike – Assault Fitness AssaultBike Elite

Assault Fitness' top-of-the-line airbike is the AssaultBike Elite and in our opinion the best Assault bike as we have two of their bikes on this list. The AssaultBike Elite is named our best airbike for its impressive build and features. Commercial quality makes it suitable for gym and home use. The heavy steel frame is powder coated and solid to keep the bike stable even when sprinting. The AssaultBike is one of the most popular airbikes out there.

Although the chain drive system on top of the fan can make a bit of noise, the quality of construction should require less maintenance for home use. The large weight capacity of 350lb is suitable for larger users. Also, for added comfort, the seat is slightly larger and wider than a typical bike seat. Even sports enthusiasts of all sizes will find a perfect fit with the 2-way adjustable seat.

Although the AssaultBike Elite does not require power, as the LCD display turns on as soon as you start pedaling, you can connect to the FIIT app and compatible chest strap via Bluetooth. FIIT lets you compete on leaderboards and compete in global challenges on your AssaultBike Elite. Follow along with instructors for training with and on the bike. We like that using FIIT with the AssaultBike Elite is completely optional, meaning you can use the bike alone even without a subscription.

Learn more about the Assault Fitness AssaultBike Elite,here.

2.Best Overbuilt Air Bike - Rogue Fitness Rogue Echo Bike

Another popular fan bike is the Rogue Echo Bike by Rogue Fitness. It has a large fan and metal fan blades to create a lot of drag. It will also feel a bit more difficult to get the fan moving since it uses a belt drive system instead of a chain. The belt drive system is slightly quieter and maintenance free.

The sturdy steel construction makes this bike a stable bike, even when you crank the handles and pedals really hard. The Rogue Echo Bike might not be best for smaller users due to its taller build, but you can adjust the seat fore and aft and up and down.

The simple console keeps you up to date on your training metrics. You can also purchase accessories such as a fan guard, bottle holder, and phone holder for an additional fee.

Learn morehereabout the Rogue Fitness Rogue Echo Bike.

3.Best Airdyne Bike - Schwinn Airdyne AD7 Pro

The Schwinn Airdyne AD7 Pro is another quieter fan bike option and our pick for best Airdyne bike. It uses a belt drive so maintenance is not an issue. It could also be better for apartments, condos, and common areas. We like that the handles offer multiple grip options and are covered with a rubber coating. This way you'll get a good grip and target different muscles in your upper body. The grips also make this a little friendlier for users of all sizes.

We like that it comes with a built-in cup holder and storage space. On other comparable models, accessories like this are sold separately, so we appreciate that they're included. It also has onboard programs like interval training in the console.

Schwinn is a trusted brand in the cycling world and offers a nice 10 year guarantee to secure the steel frame.

Click here to learn more about itSchwinn Airdyne AD7 Pro.

4.Bestes Budget Air Bike – Titan Fitness Fan Bike

If you're looking for a fan bike that's easy to move, look no further than the Titan Fitness fan bike. The front turf tires allow you to maneuver the bike over multiple surfaces, including grass, and the rear handle also helps make it easy to maneuver. You 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 a little less space. It uses a chain drive system, so some maintenance should be expected. You get the unlimited resistance that fan bikes offer on the Titan Fitness, but with a little more included features that we think are thoughtful and helpful.

5.Best Magnetic Resistance Bike – Xebex AirPlus Expert Bike 3.0 Smart Connect

Xebex Airplus Expert Bike 3.0 Smart Connect is the heaviest bike on our list, weighing in at 174 lbs. It also has a massive 500 lbs weight capacity. Both tell us that this bike is durable, stable and suitable for users of all sizes.

We like that it has multi-position handles. Another unique feature of the Xebex AirPlus is that it uses air and an adjustable magnetic resistance. This additional resistance type provides even more excitement to kick against. It's a nice feature if you want to adjust your resistance without pedaling faster.

The console also connects via Bluetooth to 3rd party apps like Kinomap, GymTrakr, Zwift and more for additional workout options. On the console, you'll see metrics like total time, calories, distance, watts, speed, RPM, heart rate, and the level of resilience you're at.

6.Best air bike without arms - Concept 2 BikeErg

The Concept 2 BikeErg differs from the other bikes on this list as it is more like a stationary bike. It still uses a fan for resistance, and you can control the level of resistance with a damper. The resistance of the other fanbikes can only be controlled by how fast you pedal and how hard you push. The BikeErg fan is slightly smaller than the other fan wheels.
Another aspect that sets it apart from the other airbikes on our list is that the BikeErg doesn't have moving arms and handles. With this design, it is better for lower body workout. It also uses a belt drive system so it's quieter than airbikes that use chains.

The console is basic, but it's Bluetooth-enabled to connect to third-party apps like Zwift and has a built-in clip for using your phone.

Read our review of the Concept 2 BikeErg,here.

7.Second Place for Best Assault Bike – Assault Fitness AssaultBike Pro

Another great airbike option is the Assault Fitness AssaultBike Pro. It is Assault Fitness' mid-range model. If you don't need a commercial quality bike like the Elite but still want a solid bike then check out the AssaultBike Pro.

We like that the chain drive system is covered to keep dirt out, which is an improvement over the original AssaultBike Classic. It has a slightly lower weight capacity than other bikes on this list at 300lbs. The adjustability is a bit more forgiving for smaller users, but some taller users may not find the Airbike suitable.

It shares many of the same features as the AssaultBike Elite, including the same monitor with Bluetooth connectivity. So you can connect to the FIIT app and do trainer-led workouts on and off the fan bike at home. We like that the FIIT app is completely optional.

Learn more about the Assault Fitness AssaultBike Pro,here.

8.Best Multi Grip Bike - XTERRA Air650 Airbike Pro

The XTERRA Air650 Airbike Pro is solidly built and can handle larger users up to 350lbs. The 4 leveling feet help keep it stable and on the ground. The steel fan blades also make this airbike appear more robust.

We like the multi-position handlebars to give you more variety in your upper body workout. The 3 different grip options help you target different muscle groups. The console is basic but has built-in goal and interval training.
We wish it came with the compatible chest strap monitor, but you can buy it separately. If you're looking for a fan bike to get a great workout on, check out the XTERRA Air650 Airbike Pro.

9.Best Budget Runner-Up - Tru Grit Air Resistance Grit Exercise Bike

Another great value purchase is the Air Resistance Exercise Grit Bike. Not only are we impressed by the affordable price, but the industrial-grade steel construction and four-way adjustable seat make this bike solid and suitable for a wide range of users. This air bike weighs 150 pounds and has front transport wheels to make it fairly easy to move around.

We like that it comes with accessories like a fan guard and a water bottle holder. This makes the attractive price even more attractive. The large, attached fan gives you unlimited drag, but the belt drive system makes for a smoother and quieter experience than other bikes on this list.

The console is battery operated and turns on when you start moving the handles and pedals. This displays metrics like watts, time, speed, pace, RPM, and distance. There are also onboard workouts to choose from for interval and targeted training. Speaking of targeted training, users can isolate their upper body by using the footpegs. We also like the textured pedals for full-body sprints on the bike.

What to look out for when buying an airbike

Before you buy your new airbike and bring it home, you should make sure you have a few factors in mind. This way you ensure that the fan bike you choose is the best for you.

driving system

One thing to keep in mind is that it will make some sort of noise regardless of the airbike. Air bikes have a fan that draws in air, and the fan blades move against that airflow, creating tension as you pedal and move your arms. Because of this, they can be noisier than other types of fitness equipment, such as magnetic resistance exercise bikes.

The drive system can also contribute to noise development. In general, airbikes use 2 different types of drive systems: chain or belt. Chain drive systems work much like an outdoor bicycle in that they use a metal chain that connects the pedals to the fan. In addition to the wind noise, you often hear a rattling or grinding noise from the chain when pedaling. Belt drive systems use a fabric belt to connect the pedals to the fan, making them quieter.

If you prefer minimal noise, a belt drive system is best. They're also great because they require little to no maintenance and are smooth to the touch. Chain drive systems may require some maintenance, but they're said to feel more realistic and can allow you to ghost ride as the pedals and fan blades move when you stop pedaling.

product weight and weight capacity

Usually when reviewing equipment, we check the load capacity and even the weight of the product itself. The higher the weight capacity and the heavier the machine, the more robust and durable it is to use. If you are a larger person or plan to use your airbike a lot, we recommend looking into these factors.

seat adjustments

Most airbikes have seats that adjust up and down and forward and backward. It's important to adjust your seating position so you can be sure you're in the right form. Most brands don't list the heights their bikes can hold, so we try to include that in our reviews.

Just as the weight capacity is too small for some users, there are fan bikes that are not suitable for smaller, shorter people. This may be due to the seat not being low enough or the overall construction of the bike being bulkier and oversized.

console

Most airbikes come with fairly basic consoles. They are considered simple compared to other home fitness equipment with large attached touch screens that can have similar functionality as tablets and even televisions. Just because they're easier doesn't mean they're less.

You'll see your workout metrics, and most even have built-in programs like built-in interval training. If you're looking for a bit more tech, some also connect to devices via Bluetooth. Fitness apps are a bit newer to the fan bike world, but some have instructor-led classes you can take on a separate device if that's your thing.

We recommend taking a look at the console's features to ensure it suits your desires and goals.

Accesories

Additional accessories may not seem like a big deal, but they can help affect your enjoyment and even how often you use your fanbike. Some air bikes come with included accessories, while others offer them at an additional cost.

These accessories include: water bottle holders, implement carriers, lawn tires and windscreens. If you like keeping your water and phone close by, mounts for them could come in handy, especially if you want to view content on your phone while driving. Turf tires might seem like overkill for a fan bike, but if you want to use and move your bike on different surfaces like grass, you can do that with this type of tire.

Windbreaks can also be quite effective because if you're in a cold garage, for example, you probably don't want the fan's air blowing on you.

guarantee and quality

The brand guarantee can sometimes be an indicator of the overall quality of a product. You also want a good warranty if you have problems with your airbike.

Preis

Having a specific budget in mind can definitely help determine which fan bike you buy. The price can also be an indication of how well made and durable the bike is. A sub $500 fan bike is unlikely to be of the same quality as a $1000+ fan bike. The cheaper option may not last as long as a more expensive one either.

Benefits of using an airbike

If you are a new user of air bikes, you may be wondering what advantages they offer. They're a great piece of equipment for cardio and conditioning, but they also have these benefits:

Low impact

Riding an airbike is a low-impact activity. This means you won't have any impact on your joints like you would with running. This is great if you have knee or ankle problems, or if you just want to limit the extra stress on your body.

High intensity

Another benefit is that you don't have to spend a lot of time on an airbike to get a good workout. Fanbikes are great for high-intensity workouts because you can't beat an airbike. The harder you push, the harder the bike becomes to use. It's recommended for high-intensity interval training and is great for shorter periods of time when you're really pushing.

full body

Adding that it's a low-impact activity that offers a high-intensity workout, air bikes can also work your whole body. Unlike exercise bikes, which primarily work your legs, fan bikes have movable arms that work your upper body just as hard as your lower body. In addition, your torso and back muscles are trained.

Targeted training

Of course, if you want to isolate specific muscle groups, you have that option on a fan bike. There are footpegs on either side of the fan to rest your feet if you only want to exercise your upper body. You can also just pedal with your legs to work all the muscles in your legs.

Additional Benefits

Air bikes are an effective cardio machine that offer killer workouts, but they're also great for warming up before a sweaty session and cooling down afterwards. You want to properly warm up and cool down your muscles to avoid injury.

Airbikes can also be used for active recreation and rehabilitation. Because the bike adjusts to your intensity, it's great for days when you want to recover your muscles and still work out. The low-impact, full-body movement is similar to walking and running, but without impacting your joints. This makes it beneficial to recover from an injury.

Why buy an air bike?

You might be interested in buying an airbike, especially after researching all the benefits one can offer, but you're still not fully convinced. Let me get into why it's an effective cardio machine and why you should buy one.

When you're short on time

If you're short on time but still want an intense workout, hop on an airbike for 10-20 minutes. When you're ready to push yourself, this cardio machine will show up for you. Because it's low-impact, you can ride hard on an airbike without worrying about damaging your joints.

With the right form on a fan bike, you train muscles throughout your body and strengthen your cardiovascular system. All of this can also be achieved in a fairly short amount of time.

Get in shape and take fitness to the next level

There's a reason why airbikes are commonly used by crossfitters and all types of athletes. You do the work. If you're trying to take your fitness to the next level or just get in better shape, this popular piece of equipment can help you get there.

Burns calories

Of course, you will burn a certain amount of calories with every movement. The higher the intensity of the exercise, the more calories you will burn. So rest assured, if you work hard on the airbike, you will burn a lot of calories. This can also help with weight loss if that is your goal.

Unlimited resistance

One of the many reasons we like fan bikes is that they can work for anyone. The faster you pedal and move your arms, the more drag you get. This means that you literally cannot use this machine to full capacity. Even if you are super strong, drag remains unlimited.

frequently asked Questions

Is an air bike better than a spin bike?

One isn't necessarily better than the other because it really depends on your goals. Spin bikes are great for endurance training over long periods of time. They are also recommended if you want to focus primarily on training your lower body. Also, most are often virtually silent, making them great for shared living spaces like apartments.

As mentioned above, air bikes train your entire body and can give you an intense workout in a short amount of time. The fans offer unlimited resistance so you can't step out, but airbikes are louder than spinbikes. Another factor is that air bikes tend to have simple, technically less sophisticated consoles than spin bikes. Many home spin bikes come with large attached touch screens that allow you to take fitness subscription classes. The bottom line is that each type of bike serves different purposes and comes with different advantages and disadvantages.

Can you just pedal on an airbike or just use your arms?

Yes. You can use the footpegs to exercise your arms only, or simply kick your feet to exercise your legs. Airbikes are ideal for targeted training.

Which is Better – Airbike or Treadmill?

It depends on what you want to get out of your workout. Treadmills were the number one choice for cardio, and they're still a preferred choice among many. Treadmills are a bit more versatile than air bikes. You can walk, jog, sprint, do interval training and more on a treadmill. They may also be better suited for less intense exercise. However, treadmills are a high-impact exercise and put more pressure on your joints.

They're both great for your cardiovascular system and will certainly burn calories. If you have issues like knee problems, an airbike will likely work better for you than a treadmill. If you want more versatility or even want to train for a race, then a treadmill is a great choice.