Get Fitter, Faster: Fitness, Food & Health Hacks

Hey, I'm Julien. I share a weekly newsletter designed to make you fitter. It's short, smart and actionable17k read it, I'd love you to join too. It's free.

I want to get fitter

Assault AirBikes Review: Which One Is Best For You?

 Written by 

Julien Raby

 Last updated on 


Few names are as synonymous with quality workout options and cardio equipment as Assault Fitness. They’ve practically revolutionized the fitness market and their AirBike series certainly lives up to the company’s reputation for high-end performance and durability.

But how exactly do the machines in this line stack up against each other? How do you decide on the best Assault AirBike for your needs? As much as they’re all formidable pieces of equipment, there are some distinct differences between the three models that can ultimately make or break the success of your workout.

A woman using an Assault Air Bike at the gym
  • Save

In A Hurry? Here’s Our Best Picks

ASSAULTFITNESS AssaultBike Pro
  • Save
ASSAULTFITNESS Assault AirBike Classic, Black
  • Save
ASSAULTFITNESS Assault AirBike Elite, Grey
  • Save
Product's nameBest Overall
ASSAULTFITNESS AssaultBike Pro
Budget Option
ASSAULTFITNESS Assault AirBike Classic, Black
Most High-End Option
ASSAULTFITNESS Assault AirBike Elite, Grey
Final ThoughtAnyone that wants a gym-level training experience at home should seriously consider the AirBike Pro.The AirBike Classic may not be as feature-packed as the other two models, but its simple design and user-friendly features can be quite useful for beginner exercisers.While performance athletes and competitive cyclists would make the most out of this high-end model, it's also suitable for recreational riders and regular gym-goers who prefer a more intense training experience.
Training Options7 Preset Programs with Competition Mode7 Preset Programs7 Preset Programs with Competition Mode
Machine Size50.9" L x 23.3" W x 48.4" H50.95'' L x 23.34'' W x 50'' H55.08'' L x 26.26'' W x 55'' H
Max User Weight Capacity300 lbs300 lbs350 lbs
Seat Adjustments• 6 front-to-back
• 11 height
• 5 front-to-back
• 11 height
• infinite front-to-back
• 12 height
Price$$$$$$
Learn moreSee at AmazonSee at AmazonSee at Amazon

Why You Should Trust Us

The experienced team behind BoxLife’s fitness endeavors has a mission to stay atop the latest trends and developments in workout equipment. We all come from various backgrounds and have different physiques to begin with, so we’re well-suited for properly assessing the quality and performance of fitness machines from our personal perspectives.

As such, we’re aware of many of the struggles modern fitness enthusiasts face and how subtle nuances in any given machine can make a tremendous difference. We’ve spent countless hours testing, researching, and comparing different options, with a focus on user experience, safety considerations, and overall value for money.

Who Is This Guide For?

If you’ve heard the name Assault Fitness being tossed around the workout world and you’re interested in learning more about their AirBike series, then this guide is for you. While they have built quite a name for themselves, we understand how challenging it can be to decide on one item as opposed to the others when they all seem to have useful and fully-packed features.

How We Picked the Best Products

To get a fully objective perspective on the AirBike series, we put our subjective experiences aside as we scoured the internet for relevant information and feedback from other users. Of course, we had to dig into the threads and discussion boards on Reddit and Quora for unfiltered and fully unbiased opinions.

We also wanted to make sure that our research and assessment process was comprehensive enough, so we included performance reviews from consumers on major retailers like Amazon, Titan, and Rogue Fitness. These reviews were especially valuable since they included information from people of all ages and body types, so we had a better understanding of how the AirBikes would perform for different groups.

A man using an Assault AirBike at the gym
  • Save

How We Graded Each Product

Once we assembled the necessary information about the Assault AirBikes, we sorted everything into a grading system that allowed us to weigh both positive and negative feedback so as to come up with a comprehensive and reliable rating. Our evaluation criteria included a number of factors, including:

  • Build Quality and Durability – While Assault Fitness takes great pride in crafting quality products, it’s only natural for them to have different levels of durability and quality. We wanted to get a clear picture of how each model fared in terms of longevity and sturdiness while still delivering the desired results.
  • Performance – Each air bike is designed differently, with seemingly minor details taking on a major role in the performance level. We paid particular attention to the strength of the resistance, comfortability, and overall quality of the workout experience.
  • Features and Functions – Aside from the essential functions of the air bikes, we also wanted to take a closer look at what kind of extras the different models offer. This is often reflected in the choice of onboard programs, customization options, monitor displays, and overall ease of use.
  • Value for Money – There will always be differences between the prices, and while some models may be more expensive than others, we wanted to see if they actually justified their price tags.

The Products

When the final ratings were decided on and the information was all sorted out, it became clear how the Assault AirBikes performed against each other. Let’s take a look at the main features of each one:

AirBike Pro – Best Overall

Coming with a commercial-grade frame and welds, the AirBike Pro brings a heavy-duty dose of performance with responsive and smooth pedaling. It looks and feels like a professional machine, and it doesn’t disappoint when it comes to features either. Its sturdy build quality and fantastic air resistance mechanism make it a top-notch all-rounder, though it may come with a higher price tag.

Pros

  • Comes with custom seat adjustments with 11 height levels
  • Convenient design and clever features for maximum comfort
  • Fully Compatible with the Assault Fitness App
  • Adjustable resistance levels to cater to your body type

Cons

  • No wind guard included
  • No option to pedal backward

Key Specs

Machine Size50.9″ L x 23.3″ W x 48.4″ H
Training Options7 Preset Programs with Competition Mode
Seat Adjustments• 6 front-to-back• 11 height
Max User Weight Capacity300 lbs

Why It’s Great

From the name itself, you can already tell that you’re not getting a regular piece of conditioning equipment with the AirBike Pro. It’s designed to give you a gym-level training experience, and it definitely delivers on that part with its premium components and fully customizable options.

Its beefier frame construction and sturdier build are coated with a corrosion-resistant finish, which makes it more durable and reliable than the average stationary bike. Plus, the padded seat and adjustable handlebar make sure you’re comfortable while delivering the highest level of performance.

Moreover, it’s fully compatible with the Assault Fitness App, allowing you to access instructional videos and track your training progress with ease. You can get precise and timely readings of your calorie burn, heart rate, distance traveled and time elapsed, as well as enter into competitive challenges with your friends.

Finally, the machine comes with a solid 7-year frame warranty with an additional 3-year policy on non-wearable parts, so you know that your investment is well-protected. You’ll have to make sure you stay within the weight limit (which is 300 lbs), but otherwise, this is a great all-around workout machine that could help you reach your fitness goals.

Who It’s Best For

Anyone that wants a gym-level training experience at home should seriously consider the AirBike Pro. Its resilient build and consistent resistance provide a realistic and enjoyable workout, while its smart features make it easy to track your progress. It may come with a higher price tag, but if you’re looking for the best of the best, then this is definitely worth the investment.

AirBike Classic – Budget Option

The classic variety of the Assault AirBike series is exactly what it sounds like – the original base model with fewer features and fewer bells and whistles. It’s not necessarily a bad thing, as this one is more suitable for those just starting out with air bike workouts and don’t need too many extras.

Pros

  • More affordable price tag than its siblings
  • Integrated transport wheels for more convenient storage
  • Built-in preset workout programs to customize your workouts
  • Comfortable seat with solid adjustments

Cons

  • No Bluetooth or Assault Fitness App compatibility
  • Shorter 5-year frame warranty

Key Specs

Machine Size50.95” L x 23.34” W x 50” H
Training Options7 Preset Programs
Seat Adjustments• 5 front-to-back• 11 height
Max User Weight Capacity300 lbs

Why It’s Great 

The pillar of the AirBike series, the Classic model is a great introduction to stationary cycling sessions. It boasts a firm yet conveniently-designed steel frame, with reinforced welds to ensure maximum stability even during high-intensity interval training.

It doesn’t have any smart features like its siblings, with a noticeable lack of Bluetooth and Assault Fitness App compatibility. But it does come with a decent panel featuring 7 preset workout programs to help you find the perfect balancing point between comfort and intensity. The display itself is basic but quite readable and easy to use, giving you precise readings of your calorie burn, speed readings, rotations per minute, and time elapsed.

Given its slightly less robust design and fewer features, the Classic AirBike comes with a shorter 5-year frame warranty. This doesn’t necessarily put it at a disadvantage as long as you stay within the weight limit and use the machine responsibly. Plus, handling the machine is a breeze since it has a lighter frame and comes with dedicated transport wheels for convenient maneuvering.

Who It’s Best For

The AirBike Classic may not be as feature-packed as the other two models, but its simple design and user-friendly features can be quite useful for beginner exercisers. It’s also an incredibly affordable solution, so if you’re just starting out with air biking and don’t want to spend too much money, you’ll certainly get your money’s worth with this one.

AirBike Elite – Most High-End Option

Finishing off with the heaviest-duty air bike of the lot, the Elite version of the series packs some serious gym-level power in a compact and stylish design. Its robust and resilient construction is designed to last, with double-stitched upholstery and heavy-duty steel reinforcements to keep the heavy frame rock solid even during extended workouts.

Pros

  • Most durable air bike of the three in this series
  • Offers isolated upper and lower body workouts
  • Ability to pedal backward and forwards for more versatility
  • Extended 10-year frame warranty

Cons

  • Quite expensive compared to the other two models
  • Bulkier and heavier frame

Key Specs

Machine Size55.08” L x 26.26” W x 55” H
Training Options7 Preset Programs with Competition Mode
Seat Adjustments• infinite front-to-back• 12 height
Max User Weight Capacity350 lbs

Why It’s Great

A real behemoth in the Assault AirBike family, the Elite variety brings many exciting features to the table. It’s equipped with a large LCD monitor with crisp viewing angles and improved readability, Bluetooth connectivity for integration with the Assault Fitness App and other compatible fitness apps, and a convenient adjustable console armrest.

Unlike the other two options, the Elite model allows you to train your entire body by separating upper and lower body workouts. This way, you can focus on specific areas of your body for more targeted results, while the dual-action arms also enable you to pedal both forwards and backward for even more variety in your training plan.

Moreover, it comes with a dedicated wind guard, which is designed to disperse the airflow evenly through the frame for a smoother session. It’s basically an additional dampening system that reduces the impact of each stroke, which also helps keep you comfortable during extended workouts.

As for the chain drive, it’s made of robust steel and is enclosed in a protective housing to reduce noise. Its adjustable resistance levels range from a gentle breeze to an intense gust, so you can always find a level of difficulty suitable for your skill level and goals.

Who It’s Best For

While performance athletes and competitive cyclists would make the most out of this high-end model, it’s also suitable for recreational riders and regular gym-goers who prefer a more intense training experience. It has plenty of features to keep you motivated and challenged, giving you more control over your workouts and helping you reach your fitness goals.

Someone using an Assault AirBike at home
  • Save

The Buying Guide

Even though these popular air bikes belong to the same series, they have their own features and specs that make each one suitable for different types of exercisers. Sometimes, this can be a subtle difference, such as the aluminum frame build or size, while other times, it can be quite noticeable.

Seat Comfort

Believe it or not, the way the seat feels plays a crucial role in AirBike performance. Generally speaking, Assault takes pride in its cushioned, ergonomic design, which is made for optimal comfort and support. But even then, the Elite model comes with a contoured and wider seat, so if comfort is your top priority, you may want to go for that one.

Fan Noise

When opting for an air-based resistance system, the steel fan blades can determine the noise level of the exercise bike. All Assault AirBikes are made with sound-attenuating enclosures, which helps reduce motor noise and make the experience more enjoyable. However, the Pro and Elite models are even quieter than the Classic thanks to their enclosed flywheels.

People using Assault AirBikes
  • Save

FAQ

Is an Assault AirBike a good workout?

The benefits of air bikes, in general, are well-documented, and they can be used to effectively engage all major muscle groups for a full-body workout. It pushes your cardiovascular endurance to the limit, helping you burn more calories with every session and building up your strength and agility in the process.

How long should you ride an air bike?

It mostly depends on your current body musculature and fitness level, but a good rule of thumb is to ride for at least 20 minutes. This should give you enough time to warm up your muscles, while also allowing you to complete a full workout session with some rest time in between. Elite athletes could go for longer periods, but it’s important to remain aware of your body and stop if you start feeling any discomfort or pain.

Do assault bikes burn body fat?

The modern advances in technology, as well as the adjustability options on air bikes, have greatly improved their fat-burning capabilities. With an air bike, you can get your heart rate up and burn calories quickly through short yet intense sessions for better and faster results.

Share via
Copy link