Many people work out at home rather than go to a gym, so they invest in a variety of exercise equipment. Fan bikes are growing in popularity because they’re relatively affordable, compact and capable of providing a full-body workout.
These exercise bikes use air as a resistance mechanism. The harder you pedal, the faster the fan blades move, creating more resistance. If you want a solid fan bike with tons of high-tech features, the AssaultFitness Airbike Classic is tough to beat.
Both stationary bikes and fan bikes are effective ways to get in shape and burn calories, but there are some key differences.
Stationary bikes are usually more expensive and require no power to operate. Fan bikes also get the nod with integrated arm bars that provide a better upper-body workout.
On the other hand, most stationary bikes come with a high-tech display screen that lets you choose among fitness programs and incline settings, offering a more immersive and interactive experience.
While some affordable fan bikes are constructed from lightweight plastic tubing, most have an aluminum or steel frame. The metal bikes are more durable than their budget-friendly counterparts, but they’re also considerably heavier.
A fan bike’s basic cycling mechanism should never require a power source, but many high-end models feature a display screen that lets you change settings, set fitness goals, and even record your heart rate. These control panels are usually powered with batteries that may or may not be included.
Look for a fan exercise bike that comes with an adjustable seat and handlebars. A comfortable seating position is key to getting the most out of your cycling device.
Fans are naturally noisy, and fan bikes are no different. If sound level is a concern, look for a bike with a solid enclosure built around the fan blades to block noise. This may prevent airflow from reaching you during a workout, but it will be considerably quieter. Certain high-end models may also advertise an ultra-quiet fan.
Fan bikes are usually more lightweight than stationary exercise bikes, and they can often be carried from room to room easily because they have no clunky electronics. Some devices might even be collapsible so you can put away the bike when it’s not in use.
The cost of a fan bike can vary widely depending on its construction and any additional features. Simple fan bikes cost around $100-$250, while most high-end devices are $650 and up.
A. Beginners may find fan bikes more challenging than stationary bikes because the resistance can’t be lowered with the simple press of a button. The harder you pedal, the tougher your exercise will be.
A. For best results, the American College of Sports Medicine recommends cycling for at least 30 minutes a day, most days of the week.
AssaultFitness Airbike Classic
What you need to know: This gym-quality fan bike has a high-tech control panel and solid steel construction.
What you’ll love: The display screen lets you set calorie, distance, and time goals and comes with several motivational fitness programs. The seat is adjustable. The base has wheels so you can easily move the bike from room to room.
What you should consider: This fan bike is considerably more expensive than other products.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Marcy Exercise Upright Fan Bike
What you need to know: This fan bike comes with tons of advanced features at a reasonable price, offering great bang for your buck.
What you’ll love: A battery-powered LCD screen functions like an odometer, displaying time, speed, and the calories you’re burning. The steel frame is durable and the fan blades generate lots of airflow to cool down your body.
What you should consider: Some users didn't like the placement of the pedals.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
What you need to know: Backed by an iconic bicycle manufacturer, this versatile fan bike is stylish and quiet.
What you’ll love: The bicycle’s single-stage belt drive makes the device particularly quiet, and the compact, integrated LCD screen displays distance, time, calories burned, and revolutions per minute, or RPMs. Stationary footrests can let you focus on upper-body exercise.
What you should consider: At over 90 pounds, this device is heavier than some other bikes.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Patrick Farmer writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
