Commercial stationary air bikes have transformed the gym environment drastically. Their sleek compact, customizable and comfortable designs are great both functionally and aesthetically. Which commercial bike between Airdyne Pro and Rogue Echo rules?
Over the years, I have awarded myself and others countless brands and models of bikes and one of my favorites has got to be the Airdyne Pro. I recently bought one to add to my home gym and it transformed my air bike experience forever.
My riding partner, who is also my best friend, and I have been on this two-decade long battle about who has the best bike. So, in response to my new equipment, he went ahead and got himself the Rogue Echo bike.
These two bike brands are extremely common in gym training centers across the globe because they have a great reputation. What sets one bike apart from the other?
What are the differences between Schwinn Airdyne Pro and Rogue Echo Bike
 |
Airdyne Pro |
Rogue Echo Bike |
Resistance |
Belt-driven |
Belt-Driven |
Heart Rate Monitor |
Wireless |
ANT+ compatible |
Display |
LCD |
LCD |
Weight capacity |
350 pounds |
350 pounds |
Pedals |
Standard outdoor flat |
Standard outdoor flat |
Seat |
Padded, 4-way adjustable |
Padded, 8-way adjustable |
Price |
Airdyne Pro vs Rogue Echo Bike – How they compare
Design
Both bikes are built of steel metal though Rogue’s material is thicker in width and density which makes it a heavy-weight bearing bike. With both bikes you are assured of getting great cardio, strength training and body toning workouts fit for all levels of experienced trainees.
The most significant difference between the two in terms of build is that the Airdyne Pro features in its wheel 26 fan blades while the Rogue Echo has 10. Regardless, both bikes seamlessly and simultaneously match the rider in unlimited and infinite air resistance.
To change up your workout and give your legs a break, the bikes have been fitted with foot rests where the rider can place his feet while continuing to move the handlebars targeting the back, neck, shoulders and arm muscles.
Pedals provided on both bikes are standard, textured and flat outdoor bike type. The seats on the Echo Rogue bike are way more vertically and horizontally adjustable than on the Airdyne.
Tiny transport wheels have been fitted into the bikes frame to help move the bikes around when not in use or for any other reason.
While both bikes are powder finished, the main difference in their design is that the Airdyne Pro features 16 more fan blades in its flywheel. This means it has greater power to burn more calories compared to the Rogue bike.
Performance
Airdyne provides the user with up to nine different types of training programs that can be selected manually or automatically through the LCD monitor. Rogue Bike has but 3 pre-programmed workout options and an alternative to customize your own.
Both these bikes are known for HIIT workouts, you will find the instructions easy to follow and enjoy taking the different challenges provided. The only issue is with the Rogue Echo’s LCD monitor which is not backlit presenting a problem when reading in dim lighting.
The monitor on both bikes provides information regarding your progress by capturing distance, time and calories burned.Airdyne has a wireless receiver that pairs well with a wireless heart rate monitor but you would need to plug a compatible type into the Echo bike to get a reading.
By resting your feet on pegs fitted on the side of each bike type you get a full body workout while you take a break from the cycling to train your arms, back and shoulder muscles.
There is no difference in the bikes’ functionality. The Airdyen bike needs no electricity and the LCD screen is powered by AA batteries and the same applies with the Echo Bike.
Airdyne’s bike’s performance in noise production is low and it is more comfortable to train on compared to the Rogue bike.
Based on functionality and performance, Airdyne is more comfortable to train on and has more variety in workout programs. Rogue bike is sturdy and equally effective but lacks the tech savviness of the Airdyne Pro.
Airdyne Provs Rogue Echo Bike – A Comparison Overview
Airdyne Pro – Overview
[amazon box=”B072Q63BDD” template=”horizontal” ]Airdyne AD7 bike allows you to select from 9 workout programs automatically using the LCD screen. The types of training available could be either interval workouts, riding with a goal or target like time, calories or distance or training for heart rate monitoring.
This is the only Schwinn Airdyne bike with a powder coating finish and it gives riders maximum customizing options such as moving the seat upward, forward, backward and downwards. This bike uniquely has a set of movable handlebars which introduces arms, back and shoulders to the overall workout.
There are footrests built into the design to allow for you to focus on upper body workouts and take a break from cycling. Pedals on the AD7 have textured surfaces and straps are adjustable to secure any size foot.
Resistance is infinite on the AD7 bike and the equipment matches your energy with every revolution or handle bar movement. The harder you push the bike, the more challenging the workout gets. This makes it a great trainer for all level of trainees.
To get a reading of your heart rate, buy a compatible wireless chest strap to pair with the bike. It takes up limited space in the house and it requires no power cords to work because the console uses two AA batteries.
Pros
- 2-way adjustable seat
- Movable multi-grip arms
- Infinite air resistance
- Wireless heart rate receiver
- Low maintenance
Cons
- Low-tech monitor
- Uncomfortable seat
Rogue Echo Bike – Overview
Rogue Echo bike is made of strong steel metal made to last and it is built with much heavier measurements in thickness of parts. It has a big flywheel featuring 10 blades
Both bikes have a powder coating finish and it gives riders maximum customizing options such as moving the seat upward, forward, backward and downwards. This bikes uniquely have a set of movable handlebars which introduces arms, back and shoulders to the overall workout.
There are footrests built into the design to allow for you to focus on upper body workouts and take a break from cycling. The pedals on the Echo bike are standard outdoor bike pedals.
These bikes demand a lot of your energy with every revolution or handle bar movement. The harder you push the belt drive system automatically adjusts the resistance and the workout gets harder. This makes it a great trainer for professional or intermediate trainees.
To get a reading of your heart rate, buy a compatible chest strap to pair with the bike. Unfortunately, the bike is not Bluetooth compatible and cannot connect with Apple of Android devices.
Pros
- 2-way adjustable seat
- Movable multi-grip arms
- Infinite air resistance
- Heart rate receiver
- Low maintenance
Cons
- LCD screen not backlit
- Not Bluetooth compatible
View Price on Amazon
Verdict: So, which is better, Schwinn Airdyne Pro orRogue Echo Bike?
Based on its performance, capability in function, variety in workout programs and durability, the Schwinn Airdyne Pro Bikerules over the Rogue Echo bike.
Not only is its build more flexible for newbies in fitness but it also has a wireless connection that allows you to connect to the bike’s app. This potential greatly raises its value in my view.
However, if technological compatibility is the least of your worries, the Rogue Echo Bike will do great service to those who have been working out for a longer period.