Best Air Bikes 2026
After testing 10+ air bikes for 200+ hours, we found the best for HYROX, CrossFit, and home conditioning
Our Top Picks
The Quick Answer
After 200+ hours of brutal testing across 10+ air bikes, the Assault AirBike Classic ($699) is the best air bike for most athletes. It's the CrossFit standard—built tough, smooth operation, 20 sealed bearings for maintenance-free use. The Rogue Echo Bike ($895) is the premium choice with heavier steel construction, but it's only sold directly through Rogue. For cycling-specific training, the Concept2 BikeErg ($990) uses the same proven air resistance as their rower.
Our Picks at a Glance
| Air Bike | Best For | Weight | Max User | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault AirBike Classic | Best Overall | 99 lbs | 350 lbs | ★★★★★ | $699 |
| Rogue Echo Bike | Premium Build | 123 lbs | 350 lbs | ★★★★★ | $895* |
| Concept2 BikeErg | Cycling Training | 68 lbs | 300 lbs | ★★★★★ | $990 |
| Schwinn Airdyne AD7 | Best Value | 113 lbs | 350 lbs | ★★★★☆ | $799 |
*Rogue Echo Bike only available at roguefitness.com
Detailed Reviews
Assault AirBike Classic
The Assault AirBike is the industry standard for a reason. Twenty sealed bearings throughout the frame ensure smooth operation and minimal maintenance. The 25-inch steel fan delivers unlimited air resistance—the harder you push, the harder it pushes back. The console includes Tabata, intervals, and heart rate programs. Used in CrossFit boxes worldwide.
Pros:
- CrossFit competition standard
- 20 sealed bearings
- Built-in workout programs
- 5-year frame warranty
- Available on Amazon
Cons:
- Lighter than Echo
- Chain drive (noisier)
- Basic console
Concept2 BikeErg
The BikeErg brings Concept2's legendary air resistance to a stationary bike. The PM5 monitor provides the same accurate, comparable data as their rower and SkiErg. Unlike traditional air bikes, this is legs-only—no moving handles. Perfect for cyclists who want Zwift-compatible, air-resistance training. At 68 lbs, it's surprisingly light and portable.
Pros:
- PM5 monitor accuracy
- Concept2 durability
- App connectivity (Zwift)
- Lightweight (68 lbs)
- Belt drive = quiet
Cons:
- No arm movement
- Not full-body workout
- Higher price point
Schwinn Airdyne AD7
The AD7 is Schwinn's flagship air bike and an excellent home gym choice. Progressive wind resistance delivers infinite intensity scaling. The heavy-duty steel frame handles aggressive workouts. The console displays RPM, watts, calories, and heart rate with multiple workout programs including HIIT intervals.
Pros:
- Heavy-duty construction
- Multi-position handles
- Corrosion-resistant frame
- Excellent warranty
Cons:
- Older design aesthetic
- Basic console vs Assault
- Single-stage resistance
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Rogue Echo Bike
The Rogue Echo Bike is the premium choice for serious athletes. At 123 lbs of heavy-duty steel, it's rock-solid during the most intense sprints. The belt-drive system is quieter than chain-driven alternatives. The fan design provides smooth, consistent resistance. Unfortunately, Rogue only sells direct—not available on Amazon.
Pros:
- Heaviest, most stable
- Belt drive (quieter)
- Rogue build quality
- LCD console
Cons:
- Not on Amazon
- Highest price
- Very heavy to move
Assault vs Echo vs BikeErg: Key Differences
| Feature | Assault AirBike | Rogue Echo | Concept2 BikeErg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drive Type | Chain | Belt | Belt |
| Arm Handles | Yes | Yes | No |
| Weight | 99 lbs | 123 lbs | 68 lbs |
| Noise Level | Louder | Moderate | Quietest |
| Amazon | ✓ Yes | ✗ No | ✓ Yes |
| Best For | CrossFit, HIIT | Premium Home Gym | Cycling Training |
Popular Air Bike Workouts
The "10-1" Descending Ladder
10-9-8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1 calorie sprints. Rest equal time between sets. Total: 55 calories of pain.
Tabata Protocol
20 seconds max effort, 10 seconds rest. Repeat 8 rounds. Track total calories for benchmark.
EMOM 20
Every minute on the minute for 20 minutes: 12/10 calories (M/F). Rest remainder of minute.
100 Calorie Time Trial
For time: 100 calories. Track your time and try to beat it. Elite: under 4 minutes.
Related Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best air bike for 2026?
The Assault AirBike Classic is the best air bike for most athletes at $699. It's the CrossFit standard with excellent build quality. The Rogue Echo Bike ($895) is more premium but only sold direct.
Assault Bike vs Rogue Echo: which is better?
The Rogue Echo is heavier (123 lbs vs 99 lbs) and uses a quieter belt drive. The Assault is lighter, cheaper ($699 vs $895), and available on Amazon. Both are excellent—Echo for premium, Assault for value.
Is the Concept2 BikeErg an air bike?
Yes, the BikeErg uses air resistance but without moving arm handles—legs only. It's ideal for cycling-specific training and Zwift compatibility, but not for full-body conditioning like traditional air bikes.
How loud are air bikes?
Air bikes produce 70-85 decibels during intense efforts—similar to a vacuum cleaner. Belt-drive bikes (Echo, BikeErg) are quieter than chain-drive (Assault). Not ideal for apartments with noise-sensitive neighbors.
Ready to Suffer?
The Assault AirBike Classic delivers brutal conditioning at the best value.
Check Assault AirBike on Amazon →