Best Air Bikes 2023: Cardio Bikes That Could Send You to Hell

Dubbed “Satan’s Tricycle,” the air bike brings cardio hell and quad-burning nightmares upon its rider, and for that, it is a true fitness hero!

Air bikes are unmistakable due to their giant fans, and how they deliver resistance makes them a different beast that stands out from the crowd!

Compared to exercise bikes that employ magnetic resistance, friction, or rugged braking systems, fan bikes generate air resistance depending on how hard you ride.

The force you exert on the handlebars, which work in tandem with the pedals, is what drives the fan at the front of the bike. The blade’s movements displace air, resulting in air resistance.

Air resistance builds as you pedal more vigorously. The harder you work, the faster the fan’s airblades travel against the pressure you’re applying to the pedals from the opposite direction.

Air bikes deliver unlimited levels of resistance and push your body to the limit! You need to work both your legs and arms, and this full-body effort is the biggest difference between an air bike and an exercise bike.

Are you down for some heart-pounding sweat sessions with an air bike? This article will walk you through some of the best air bikes in 2023.

Best Air Resistance Exercise Bike 2023

An air resistance bike can meet your needs, whether you are a beginner looking to stay in shape, an intermediate user looking to improve strength and endurance, or an elite conditioning athlete looking for a challenging workout. Here are my top 10 favourites!

Image	Brand	Weight	Weight Capacity	Features	Check Prices
	Metis Fury Air Bike	n/a	136kg	7 workout programs, 7 fan blade, Adjustable seat	View Amazon UK Price
	JLL Sonic 1	53.5kg	130kg	6 readout monitor, 3 piece crank, Adjustable seat	View Amazon UK Price
	Strongology TITANIUM Assault Bike	50kg	135kg	15 Levels Resistance, Dual-belt driven, Steel frame	View Amazon UK Price
	Marcy Fan Bike NS1000	26.31kg	113.4kg	8 resistance levels, 50cm fan, Adjustable seat	View Amazon UK Price
	Schwinn Airdyne AD6 Bike	51kg	136kg	Single stage drive belt, RevMeter, Non-slip pedals	View Amazon UK Price
	V-fit ATC1 Air Cycle	18.2 kg	110kg	5 function monitor, Self-presenting pedals, demountable handlebars	View Amazon UK Price
	SF-B2729 Tornado LX Fan Bike	44.72kg	150kg	70cm fan, 4 way adjustable seat, Chain drive	View Amazon UK Price
	JTX Mission Air Bike	63.5kg	160 kg	8 program, Belt driven fan, adjustable seat	View Amazon UK Price
	Inspire Fitness CB1	36kg	159kg	4 console display, Belt driven fan, adjustable seat	View BestGymEquipment UK Price
	Primal Pro Series HIIT	73.5kg	n/a	7 Console Display, Single-stage drive belt, Oversized saddle	View BestGymEquipment UK Price

Right off the bat, I will say that the Metis Fury Air Bike is the best air exercise bike on this list given its durability, performance, and price!

This beast boasts a rock-solid steel tube framework with a 300-pound maximum weight capacity. When riding the Metis Fury, there is no questioning its ability to withstand ITT, Tabata, and sprints.

An innovatively designed noise-reducing belt and chain system connects the seven fan blades to a pair of aluminium alloy pedals and handles. Both the pedals and handles come with silicone grips for traction.

The Metis Fury comes with seven built-in programmes to aid training: Interval 10/20, Interval 20/10, Custom Interval, Target Time, Target Distance, Target Calories, and Target Heart Rate. Display-wise, it has a digital backlit monitor to track time, distance, calories, watts, speed, RPM, and pulse. While not as snazzy as an HD touch-screen, using an LCD does keep it as cheap as chips.

Read more in our Metis Fury Air Bike review

View Latest Amazon Prices

Implemented with a direct belt-driven system, the JLL Sonic Air Bike is one of the best air bikes for home use because of how smooth and quiet it operates!

Weighing 53.5 kilogrammes, it is heavy enough to keep itself in place even during your most serious soul-crushing intervals. Its alloy steel construction can accommodate a fitness junkie up to 280 pounds. And speaking of reliability and longevity, the bike uses a 3-crank system.

While this bike aims to kick your butt, its well-padded seat makes intense workouts slightly more bearable. The seat comes with several height adjustments so that you can find the best position. In addition, the ergonomic, L-shaped handlebars allow for more natural, synchronised movements.

If you prefer long, steady cardio workouts, then you will love the included device stand for your tablet. You can entertain yourself by watching reels. The JLL Sonic 1 Air Bike is likewise compatible with the iConsole app.

Learn more by reading our JLL Sonic 1 Air Bike review

View Latest Amazon Prices

If you wish to incorporate magnetic resistance into your air bike, feel free to torture yourself with the Strongology Titanium Assault Bike. This has to be the best air resistance bike in its class!

The Titanium Assault offers 14 levels of magnetic resistance that you can easily adjust with a rotary knob. The higher the setting, the closer the magnets are together, resulting in greater resistance. Combine this with the already challenging air resistance, and you can really work your guts out.

Most of the construction is steel with an industrial powder coating, thus giving it a rugged feel. With that, it also comes with a weight capacity of 297 pounds.

Moreover, the bike operates via a double-torque belt drive and 170mm bio-mechanic crank with 10 sealed cartridge bearings to ensure smooth, nearly silent operation.

Despite being a misery machine, comfort is a strong feature of the Titanium Assault. The padded grips and comfortable seat make this workhorse ideal for long, steady cardio sessions. Non-slip foot pegs are included in addition to the non-skid pedals.

If you need a little extra motivation or entertainment to get through a workout, you can place your smartphone or tablet on the integrated media holder.

View Latest Amazon Prices

The Marcy Fan might only weigh 26 kilogrammes, but its steel frame can carry up to 250 pounds. It is a breeze to assemble and move around, so you can take it out to the patio when the weather is nice.

The seat and handlebars are padded with high-density foam, and there are seven height adjustments. The pedals are a good size and width, and they come with straps for a better grip.

The user-friendly bike comes with a belt-driven flywheel system, offering its rider a smooth, quiet ride. There is a rotary knob to manipulate the tension.

If you have been lifting heavy weights, you would probably find the resistance to be inadequate, especially for the upper body muscle groups. But for beginners, the Marcy Fan is an excellent way to jumpstart a fitness journey.

For more guide, read our Marcy Fan Bike NS-1000 review

View Latest Amazon Prices

The Airdyne AD6 is a great piece of equipment for light cardio work at any time of the day at home.

The moving arms provide a total-body workout as well as upper-body cardio. But if you are short, obese, or physically limited in some way, it might be challenging to hold onto the handlebars. This results from the absence of fore-and-aft adjustments. The LCD console, which looks like something from the early 90s, provides little information, and you can’t even input your weight.

On a positive note, you can get your heart rate into the target zone by using a Polar heart rate monitor. The pedal action is smooth, and the flywheel operates flawlessly.

View Latest Amazon Prices

At 18 kilogrammes, the V-fit ATC1 is the lightest and most transportable air bike on this list. The air bike features a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) construction, which is a high-strength thermoplastic used in numerous applications in the construction industry. This explains why this machine is so lightweight.

While the V-Fit ATC1 may not hold up to intense training, it offers a convenient cardio session for toning and weight loss at a price that won’t bring tears to your eyes. Its reliable frame can hold up to 242 pounds without wobbling.

Given its price tag, it does not come with all the bells and whistles, but there is a single-screen monitor that provides information on speed, time, distance, and calories burned.

View Latest Amazon Prices

If you are bored with your cardio routine, consider hopping on this air bike by Sunny Health. With its commercial-grade 27.5-inch fan wheel and chain drive, you’d feel like fighting against a tornado! As you enter beast mode, the resistance rises to the challenge.

With each push and pull, you will experience immense muscle engagement in the arms, back, and shoulders. When your legs are tired or when you want to focus on your upper body, you can rest your feet on the large, sturdy foot pegs.

You can easily track your progress on the performance monitor. Place your tablet on the integrated device holder to follow along with your favourite fitness apps or online training videos through the Sunny Fitness website.

At 44.72 kilogrammes, the Tornado LX Fan Bike is on the heavy side due to its steel body, but it has a whopping 330-pound load capacity. In addition to its floor stabilisers, it comes with front wheels to make transport easy.

Comfort is also a major selling point for the Tornado LX Fan Bike. You can adjust the seat vertically and horizontally so that you can find the proper form and get the most out of your workout.

View Latest Amazon Prices

If cost is not a problem, we can all agree that the JTX Mission Air Bike is the best air bike for home and commercial use. For the price paid, you’ll get a heavy-duty CrossFit® equipment that can take the strain no matter how brutal your workouts get!

The bike boasts a heavy-duty steel frame finished with sweat-resistant paint. Weighing a hefty 63.5 kilogrammes, you can be sure of a smooth, stable ride even when going hell on a HIIT session.

The Mission Air Bike fits a variety of heights and sizes, thanks to its multi-adjustable seat and multi-position handball bars. Even if you are five feet flat, it does not have issues with shorter people.

The non-slip grip on the handles means your hands will stay still, however much you perspire. Although this air bike is designed to kick your butt, it comes with a wide cushioned seat that your bottom will thank you for.

Read More: JTX Mission Air Bike Review

View Latest Amazon Prices

Visit JTX Fitness Official Store

Beginners should consider the Inspire Fitness CB1 Air Bike. For a cardio workout, it is a great option you can definitely count on. It is rugged but compact, which makes it even more appealing if you are looking to save space in your apartment.

Unfortunately, it is missing fore and aft seat adjustments. You just have to scoot and see how far you should be seated from the handle.

This air bike comes with standard features. Nothing fancy. However, its heavy-duty steel frame makes it an attractive option.

View Latest Best Gym Equipment UK Price

Another superb option for serious athletes and fitness junkies is the Primal Pro Series HIIT air bike. Made of heavy-duty steel, the 73.5 metal monster handles all the strain as you cycle like a beast. Simply put, it is built like a tank!

Second on the pro list is the level of comfort and adjustability it offers. It comes with non-slip dual-grip handles, vertical and horizontal seat adjustments, and an oversized saddle cushion to make longer rides comfortable.

Its LCD includes important statistics and programmed intervals. You can also connect a Polar heart rate monitor if you want to engage in heart rate-based training.

The Primal Pro Series air bike ticks a whole lot of boxes. Although it costs an arm and a leg, its value is outstanding.

View Latest Best Gym Equipment UK Price

Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Air Bikes for Home Gym

There’s a plethora of air bikes to swoon over, but how do you separate the good from the bad and tell the best air bikes among the good? Here are factors to consider, especially when buying your air bike for the first time.

Belt Drive Over Chain

Air bikes come with two drivetrains: belt drives and chain drives.

We suggest investing in an air bike with belt drive integration if you have a big budget. While more expensive, belt drive bikes are robust and low-maintenance. A belt-drive integrated bike offers a smoother and quieter option to boot.

High-quality chain drive bikes are also durable, but they can get noisy, and the chain needs replacement over time.

Heavy-Duty Frame

The durability of an air bike can affect its stability, especially during sprints.

The best air bikes for the money are predominantly built with steel. A steel frame can withstand the demands of a rigorous workout for years to come.

Also, a robust steel construction increases the weight capacity. A 350-pound weight limit is among the highest for air bikes with heavy steel frames.

On the other hand, lightweight air bikes with a lot of plastic wobble with each pedal, and they are much less likely to hold up over the long term.

Comfort and Adjustability

When using an air bike, it is important to feel comfortable, as it can dampen your mood and may even cause injury down the road.

The seat should be adjustable to accommodate various heights. When standing, you should be able to set your seat height with your hips.

As you pedal, your knees should be slightly bent. While you are seated on the bike, your feet should be able to touch the ground.

The grips on the handlebars need to be moisture-resistant. When gripping the handles, you ought to have a slight, natural bend in your elbows.

Furthermore, the seat should be padded with dense foam. There is nothing worse than riding an air bike with a rock-hard seat!

Display Console

The display console reads out critical stats regarding your exercise, which makes it an important consideration. RPM, speed, watts, distance covered, time, calories burned, and intervals should be displayed on the monitor.

In addition to these metrics, the display console should be user-friendly and offer a bright, clear display. Some models may also integrate with third-party heart rate monitors.

Warranty

Last but not least, be sure to check the warranty!

It is possible to receive a product with a minor factory defect, and like any piece of equipment, something could break. In this case, it would be prudent to purchase a product that comes with at least one or two years of warranty.

Are Exercise Bikes Suitable for All Fitness Levels?

Yes! Air resistance bikes are suited for everyone — whether you’re a middle-aged man who has finally decided to get out of the sedentary rut or a self-confessed couch potato who has never exercised before!

Indoor cycling beginners benefit from the dynamic resistance of air bikes. You can start at an intensity that feels manageable and comfortable for your level. As your body gets the hang of this new routine, you can slowly challenge yourself as you progress in your fitness journey.

Also, air bikes are low-impact, so they make for an effective fitness equipment option for individuals rehabbing an injury.

Muscleheads and gym rats should not discount what air bikes can offer. Air bikes provide high-intensity workouts that target both endurance and strength.

The more aggressive you are, the greater the resistance! The fan’s constant resistance ensures a consistent and efficient workout by working multiple muscle groups at once.

Because of their adaptability, air bikes provide users of all fitness levels with an effective workout and a brutally challenging one, if you like. That is why dedicated athletes and coaches have invested in this type of equipment.

Read more: Discover 7 Air Bike Benefits

What Is the Recommended Workout Duration and Frequency for an Air Exercise Bike?

The duration and frequency of your workouts should be tailored to your fitness level, goals, and preferences.

When starting air bike workouts, it’s recommended for new riders to begin with a light pace for about 10 to 15 minutes before cooling down. This allows you to get a better idea of how to use the tool, while also allowing your body to gauge the level of intensity. You can gradually increase this time by adding 2 minutes each time until you can do 20 to 25 minutes at a moderate pace, which will get your heart pumping and your body sweating. This simple interval workout is great for beginners as it allows you to work at your own pace while still challenging yourself.

Once you’re comfortable with the machine, you can experiment with different interval lengths and rest periods. You can even switch things up by doing some intervals with only your legs and others with just your arms. It’s recommended to do air biking three to five times per week to allow your body to recover between workouts while still reaping significant benefits. It’s also important to consult with a qualified fitness professional to develop a personalised exercise plan that suits your needs and abilities. Remember to listen to your body and enjoy the benefits of regular exercise on your air exercise bike.

Additional reading: Maximizing Your Indoor Cycling Workout

Conclusion

Air resistance bikes are a versatile and effective fitness equipment option for people of all fitness levels. Air bikes provide an efficient and enjoyable fitness experience for users of all fitness levels thanks to their adjustable resistance levels, low-impact nature, and full-body engagement.

If you have some room in your budget for all the extras, the JTX Mission Air Bike might be just what you need to get going. The Metis Fury and JLL Sonic are also excellent options that are not too heavy on the pockets.

FAQs

How noisy is an air resistance bike during use?

Air bikes create noise as fan blades spin and cut through the air, but nothing near as loud as a vacuum cleaner, even if you push yourself hard. Belt-drive air bikes, in particular, are quite low-key. You can watch the morning news as you pedal.

Can you just pedal on an air bike?

It would be extremely challenging to pedal on your bike without the support of the handlebars.

Why do fighters use air bikes?

It is no secret that MMA and UFC fighters train using air bikes to build their muscular and cardio endurance. HIIT workouts mimic the explosive, stop-start nature of fights in between rounds.

Does air cycling reduce belly fat?

There is no such thing as spot reduction. However, exercising with an air bike diminishes your overall fat stores, including those surrounding your abdominal area.

Should I get an air bike or a spin bike?

The air bike is perfect for HIIT workouts or if you want to include upper-body exercises in your cardio routine. Otherwise, hop on a spin bike.