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If you’re in the market for an air bike, also known as a fan bike, chances are you’ve come across the AssaultBike from Assault Fitness.
Unlike traditional stationary bikes, which use magnetic or friction resistance, air bikes do not include a knob or button to adjust your resistance. Instead, you adjust the resistance by pedaling and moving the arm bars.
As you pedal faster and push and pull on the arm bars, the large fan at the front of the bike has to push more air through, which creates more resistance. So your effort directly affects the difficulty of your workout, and the moving arm bars support total-body training.
Due to their unique mechanism, air bikes are popular within the CrossFit community and an excellent option if you’re interested in high intensity interval (HIIT)-style workouts.
With three models to choose from, Assault Fitness bikes offer the benefits of a classic fan bike but with updated features like preset workout programs and display screens for viewing your performance stats.
This article covers the key stats, pros, and cons of AssaultBikes, as well as how they stack up against competitors.
AssaultBikes are air bikes produced by Assault Fitness Products, a California-based fitness retail company that has been around for decades.
In addition to selling home fitness equipment like curved treadmills, Assault Fitness is known for selling its air bikes to the U.S. military and CrossFit gyms.
There are currently three AssaultBikes available, including:
- AssaultBike Classic
- AssaultBike Pro
- AssaultBike Elite
The bikes all feature the same basic design, which includes the following features:
- a heavy-duty steel frame and reinforced pedals
- a 27-inch (68.6-cm) steel fan
- an adjustable saddle, moving handlebars, and transport wheels
- an LCD center console
They have a reputation for being easy to move and assemble, which is a huge plus if you’re putting the bike together on your own.
Plus, the bikes do not have to be plugged in to use them, which allows you to move the machine anywhere in your home, including your backyard.
You can also add a wind guard to the bikes, which helps reduce air blowback while the bike is in use.
AssaultFitness app
The Assault Fitness app features workouts of the day, challenges, signature programs, and custom workout tracking. You can also use the app to compete against other users and friends.
The app is compatible with other Assault Fitness products, like the brand’s treadmills or rowers. That said, it only connects with the AssaultBike Pro and Elite models (the AssaultBike Classic does not have Bluetooth connectivity).
It’s also important to note that the app only has a 1.9-star rating on the Google Play store and a 2.4-star rating on the Apple Store. The most common complaints are Bluetooth connectivity issues and a confusing interface.
Pros
- variety of preset workout programs
- free app for training programs, performance tracking, and more
- more affordable than other equipment options
- easy to assemble
- no electricity required
- combined upper and lower body workout
- free shipping within the contiguous United States
Cons
- some customer complaints about saddle, pedals, and console
- shipping may cost extra outside the contiguous United States
- not compact or foldable
Here’s a closer look at each of the three AssaultBike models.
AssaultBike Classic
Price: $749
The AssaultBike Classic is exactly as it sounds — it’s the original, “classic” base model of the AssaultBikes, so it’s available at a lower price point but also lacks some of the features of the upgraded models.
The Classic features a durable steel frame, adjustable seat, transport wheels, and moveable arms and pedals for a combined upper and lower body workout. It offers seven built-in workout programs based on time, heart rate, distance, and calories plus several interval options.
Plus, it weighs less than 100 pounds (45.4 kg) and comes with transport wheels, making it easier to move than some other exercise bikes.
The Classic comes with a 5-year warranty on the frame and a 2-year warranty on non-wear parts, which is shorter than the warranties of the other AssaultBike models.
It’s also worth noting that the Classic does not come with a wind guard (you can purchase one separately).
AssaultBike Classic at a glance
- Dimensions: 50.95 x 23.34 x 50 in. (129.41 x 59.28 x 127 cm)
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs. (136.1 kg)
- Seat: sport seat, 5 front-to-back and 11 height adjustments
- Wind guard: sold separately
- Weight: 95.64 lbs. (43.38 kg)
- Warranty: 5-year frame, 2-year non-wear parts
- Key features: sturdy steel frame, 7 built-in programs, adjustable seat, only compatible with Polar heart rate monitors
- Pros:
- more affordable than many other similar products
- built-in wheels help with transportability
- preset workout programs
- Cons:
- no Bluetooth connectivity, so you can’t connect to the Assault Fitness app
- warranty isn’t as long as other models
- wind guard sold separately
AssaultBike Pro
Price: $899
The Pro version of the AssaultBike looks very similar to the Classic but includes some of the upgraded features of the Elite. It has a commercial-grade frame, a corrosion-resistant powder coating, more seat adjustments, and a high-contrast LCD console that’s easier to read.
Unlike the Classic, the Pro has Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity so you can easily sync your workout data to the Assault Fitness app and connect a heart rate monitor. The app also allows you to access more workout options and compete with other users.
The Pro has a 7-year warranty on the frame and a 3-year warranty on non-wear parts.
It’s also important to keep in mind that the Pro doesn’t come with a wind guard.
AssaultBike Pro at a glance
- Dimensions: 49.8 x 24.1 x 51.1 in. (126.6 x 61.3 x 129.9 cm)
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs. (136.1 kg)
- Seat: sport seat, 6 front-to-back and 11 height adjustments
- Wind guard: sold separately
- Weight: 118.4 lbs. (53.8 kg)
- Warranty: 7-year frame, 3-year non-wear parts
- Key features: commercial-grade frame, 7 preset workout programs, competition mode, adjustable seat, high-contrast LCD console, Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, can connect to Assault Fitness app
- Pros:
- includes Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity
- integrates with the Assault Fitness app
- more seat adjustment options than the Classic
- high-contrast LED console is easier to read
- Cons:
- lacks some of the key features of the Elite model, like upper and lower body isolation and the ability to pedal backward
- wind guard sold separately
AssaultBike Elite
Price: $1,299
Compared with the AssaultBike Classic and Pro models, the Elite has a wide range of upgraded features, including a more robust frame, a larger seat with added cushioning and extra adjustment options, and a removable wind guard. Like the Pro, it has a high-contrast LCD console plus Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity.
Unlike the other models, the Elite allows you to isolate your upper body or lower body by using only the arm bars or pedals. Plus, you can also pedal backward.
The Elite has a higher weight capacity and comes with a longer warranty than the other models (10 years on the frame, 3 years on parts, and 1 year on labor). At 138.89 lbs. (63 kg), it’s also the heaviest, so it may not be as easy to move around.
Keep in mind that the additional features come at a higher price point, making it the most expensive AssaultBike model. It’s also more expensive than alternatives like the Rogue Echo Bike and the Schwinn AD7.
AssaultBike Elite at a glance
- Dimensions: 55.08 x 26.26 x 55 in. (139.9 x 66.7 x 139.7 cm)
- Weight capacity: 350 lbs. (158.8 kg)
- Seat: large ergonomic seat with added cushioning, infinite front-to-back and 12 height adjustments
- Wind guard: included
- Weight: 138.89 lbs. (63 kg)
- Warranty: 10-year frame, 3-year non-wear parts, 1-year labor
- Key features: commercial-grade frame, upgraded seat, 7 preset workout programs, competition mode, high-contrast LCD console, can use the arm bars and pedals separately and pedal backward, Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, can connect to Assault Fitness app
- Pros:
- extra-durable frame, upgraded seat, and wind guard
- ability to isolate the upper or lower body and pedal backwards for a wider variety of workouts
- includes Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity
- integrates with the Assault Fitness app
- long warranty
- Cons:
- most expensive of the AssaultBike models
- heavier, bulkier frame is harder to move
Here’s a quick look at how the models compare:
| AssaultBike Classic | AssaultBike Pro | AssaultBike Elite | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 50.95 x 23.34 x 50 in. (129.41 x 59.28 x 127 cm) | 49.8 x 24.1 x 51.1 in. (126.5 x 61.2 x 129.8 cm) | 55.08 x 26.26 x 55 in. (139.9 x 66.7 x 139.7 cm) |
| Weight | 95.64 lbs. (43.4 kg) | 118.4 lbs. (53.7 kg) | 138.89 lbs. (63 kg) |
| Wind guard | sold separately | sold separately | included |
| Max weight capacity | 300 lbs. (136.1 kg) | 300 lbs. (136.1 kg) | 350 lbs. (158.8 kg) |
| Saddle | adjustable sport seat | adjustable sport seat | adjustable, large ergonomic sport seat |
| Seat adjustments | • 5 front-to-back • 11 height | • 6 front-to-back • 11 height | • infinite front-to-back • 12 height |
| Display | LCD screen | high-contrast LCD screen with improved readability | high-contrast LCD screen with improved readability |
| Training options | 7 preset workouts (time, heart rate, distance, calories, and intervals) | • 7 preset workouts • competition mode | • 7 preset workouts • competition mode |
| Performance metrics | • calories • heart rate • RPM • watts • distance • time • speed • intervals | • calories • heart rate • RPM • watts • distance • time • speed • intervals | • calories • heart rate • RPM • watts • distance • time • speed • intervals |
| Bluetooth | no | yes | yes |
| Compatible with Assault Fitness app | no | yes | yes |
Reviews for the AssaultBikes are mostly positive, with customers stating the machines are solidly built and offer an effective workout solution.
The Classic model is very popular, with more than 2,000 reviews on Amazon and 4.8 out of 5 stars. Users note that it delivers a great full body workout and that it’s sturdy, high quality, and easy to assemble.
That said, some reviewers find the seat to be a little uncomfortable, and there are also complaints regarding the threading on the pedals — in some cases the pedals come loose or fall off, particularly following more intense workouts.
Additionally, several customers express frustration with the Assault Fitness customer service team and have had difficulties receiving replacement parts.
Finally, some customers wish the Classic and Pro came with a wind guard, while others complain that the Classic’s heart rate receiver is only compatible with Polar-brand straps.
Some customers also point out that the Bluetooth connection for the Pro and Elite models isn’t very strong and occasionally disconnects.
There are several air bikes on the market. However, the Schwinn Airdyne and Rogue Echo are the AssaultBikes’ main competitors.
Here’s a quick look at how the bikes compare.
| Assault Airbike | Schwinn Airdyne | Rogue Echo | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price (MSRP) | • Classic: $749 • Pro: $899 • Elite: $1,299 | • AD6: $799 • AD7: $1,099 | $845 |
| Dimensions | • Classic: 50.95 x 23.34 x 50 in. (129.41 x 59.28 x 127 cm) • Pro: 49.8 x 24.1 x 51.1 in. (126.5 x 61.2 x 129.8 cm) • Elite: 55.08 x 26.26 x 55 in. (139.9 x 66.7 x 139.7 cm) | • AD6: 49.7 × 25.7 × 50.9 in. (126 × 65 × 129 cm) • AD7: 53 × 26.5 × 53 in. (134.6 × 67.3 × 134.6 cm) | 58.9 × 29.9 × 52.8 in. (149.6 × 76 × 134.1 cm) |
| Weight | • Classic: 95.64 lbs. (43.4 kg) • Pro: 118.4 lbs. (53.7 kg) • Elite: 138.89 lbs. (63 kg) | • AD6: 112 lbs. (51 kg) • AD7: 113 lbs. (51.3 kg) | 127 lbs. (57.6 kg) |
| Weight capacity | • Classic: 300 lbs. (136.1 kg) • Pro: 300 lbs. (136.1 kg) • Elite: 350 lbs. (158.8 kg) | • AD6: 300 lbs. (136.1 kg) • AD7: 350 lbs. (158.8 kg) | 350 lbs. (158.8 kg) |
| Display screen | LCD | LCD | LCD |
| Number of workout programs | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Included wind guard | • Classic: no • Pro: no • Elite: yes | • AD6: no • AD7: yes | no |
| Bluetooth | • Classic: no • Pro: yes • Elite: yes | no | no |
| Expert assembly offered | no | yes, for an additional fee | no |
| Warranty | • Classic: 5-year frame, 2-year non-wear parts • Pro: 7-year frame, 3-year non-wear parts • Elite: 10-year frame, 3-year non-wear parts, 1-year labor | • AD6: 10-year frame, 2-year mechanical, 1-year electrical, 6-month labor • AD7: 10-year frame, 2-year mechanical and electrical, 6-month on labor | 2-year frame and parts |
The Assault Fitness AssaultBike is a solidly built air bike that works well for CrossFit enthusiasts or those interested in a low impact, interval-style workout.
This style of bike is also a good choice for those who want to work their upper and lower body at the same time, or for those who need a piece of cardio equipment that can be set up anywhere and easily moved.
When deciding which AssaultBike is right for you, you’ll want to factor in price, features, and quality.
If it fits within your budget, the Elite is our pick as the best AssaultBike.
While it costs more than the other models, the Elite offers a sturdier frame, an upgraded seat with more adjustment options, Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, and a wind guard. It also allows you to pedal both forward and backward, and to easily isolate the upper or lower body for a wider range of workout options.
Additionally, when compared with the Schwinn Airdyne bikes and the Rogue Echo, the Elite still wins out. The AssaultBike Elite has a longer warranty and Bluetooth and ANT+ capabilities, which comes in handy for tracking your performance stats or connecting a heart rate monitor.
However, the AssaultBike is not a good fit if you’re interested in a traditional stationary bike workout or want a machine with an integrated touchscreen for streaming workout classes.
Also, if you’re unfamiliar with the feeling of moving your arms and upper body while performing a cycling workout, you may not like how riding this bike feels. It’s a good idea to try using a similar bike style before making a purchase.
What makes AssaultBikes hard?
Since AssaultBikes use air for resistance and the resistance level increases as you increase your effort level, they can provide a more challenging workout than some other types of exercise bikes.
As you pedal with your legs and move your arms, the bike’s large, integrated fan begins to spin and create resistance as the blades work against the air. The faster you pedal and push and pull, the faster the fan begins to spin and the greater the resistance created.
Additionally, AssaultBikes engage both your upper and lower body, which is different from regular cycling and running and means you may tire more quickly than you would if you were only using your lower body.
Is using an AssaultBike better than running?
The best type of workout is the one you enjoy and that you’ll do consistently. Both running and using an AssaultBike can be beneficial for your cardiovascular health and overall fitness.
That said, if you’re looking for a low impact cardiovascular workout that engages your upper and lower body simultaneously or an easy way to do interval training, the AssaultBike is a good option.
Running can also provide a good workout and works well for intervals, but it doesn’t engage your upper body as much. Plus, running is a high impact form of exercise, so it may not be a good fit for people who have joint pain or who are rehabbing an injury.
Does the AssaultBike build muscle?
Yes, the AssaultBike can help you build muscle to some extent by providing resistance to the muscles in your upper and lower body. However, it’s designed to be used as a piece of cardio equipment, so it will primarily help you improve heart- and lung-related health and increase your endurance.
With regular use, your muscles will respond and adapt to the resistance you work against while using the AssaultBike, but you may or may not see increased muscle size. To build muscle, you need to continually provide your muscles with a new challenge, which may be harder to do once you’ve gotten used to the AssaultBike.
If you want to gain muscle mass, you’ll want to combine your cardio workouts with a regular strength-training routine and make sure you’re consuming enough calories and nutrients to support your training.
Assault Fitness AssaultBikes are great options if you’re looking for an effective, low impact way to reap the benefits of HIIT workouts from home.
While all three models are built with quality materials for a stable and comfortable ride, the AssaultBike Elite is our top pick thanks to its high weight capacity, ergonomic seat, multiple height adjustments, and Bluetooth capabilities.
