If you’re looking to maximize your time with quick yet efficient cardio training, the best air bikes can deliver thanks to their rapid ability to produce cardiorespiratory adaptations through the challenging workout intensity. (1) While you’re likely to work up a sweat with any air bike, the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike provides a unique challenge thanks to an included magnetic resistance system that allows you to train against two resistance methods instead of one.

From our experience in testing 25 different air bikes over the years, we do think this included resistance system makes the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike a standout within the category. However, a niche component does not mean it’s the best of the bunch in terms of factors like in-training stability, ergonomics, and overall construction. Let’s dive into our findings and see why this versatile piece of fitness equipment can be great for varied training scenarios but falls a little short when workouts become more specialized.

Main Takeaways

According to our tester, the magnetic resistance can be a fun way to change up your training intensity during interval training and even when tackling longer rides.

The chain-drive system used on this air bike can make for louder operations and will require more routine maintenance than belt-driven profiles.

The handlebars create a narrow access window for the center display while in motion, which can lead to some discomfort when trying to scroll through readouts.

Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike Highlights

Like other air bikes, the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike features a compact profile that can be more space-saving than, say, the best treadmills on the market. The heavy-duty silhouette takes up 8.67 square feet of space, which is less than that of your average loveseat. (2) Also, our tester, a certified personal trainer, noted that the air bike is easy to maneuver into position for a workout despite the heftier 109-pound net weight.

Moving upward along the profile, the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike utilizes a chain-drive system for its drivetrain. While this can help replicate the conditions of on-road cycling, we do want to note that chain drives can be louder than their belt-based counterparts. Chains will also need additional maintenance. 

A closeup of the chain drive system featured in the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike

Our tester also made note of the larger 12-inch saddle, which can be great for creating a comfortable riding experience regardless of your workout length. “It’s humorously large, in my opinion, but I’m not really complaining given the added comfort,” they added.

We did find, however, that there’s a lack of access to the center LCD display. The space between the handlebars, according to our tester, was fairly narrow, which had them bumping into the moving handlebars as they tried to toggle through the available data. Speaking of, the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike is capable of tracking eight different metrics: Total Time, Work Time, Calories, Distance, Watts, Speed, RPM, and Heart Rate.

Of course, the star of this compact yet high-intensity training silhouette is the flywheel. In addition to the fan blade dampener, this air bike also includes a magnetic resistance system — dubbed AirPlus technology — that’s more akin to the magnetic intensities of the best exercise bikes than your standard air bike resistance. The eight available levels can be toggled via a lever along the center post, and our tester appreciated the intuitiveness of the controls.

Our tester adjusting the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike’s magnetic resistance system

“I really enjoyed the magnetic resistance when tackling lower-intensity sessions at longer distances,” they added. “It was a nice break from the air resistance that requires more effort to facilitate a challenge — and I’m not sprinting for double-digit mileage to achieve that.”

Finally, the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike features a max user weight up to 350 pounds, which is on par with other air bikes on the market. We did experience this sturdiness in training, too, feeling no true sense of instability when powering through HIIT workouts and other training disciplines. 

Granted, we know the proper air bike form, so if you do begin to exaggerate your arm and leg motions during workouts, you can likely expect some shakiness in the saddle.

Training With the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike

For our trials, we got hands-on with the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike for a handful of full-body workouts, including some 20-cal intervals and slow-and-steady rides to round out our training sessions. We also took our time in digesting the available information across the center LCD display, which also included some preset programming.

We used a multi-point methodology to rate the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bikes in categories such as ergonomics, available resistance, adjustability, conveniences, and more, scoring them on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). For further information on how we trial and test products for our online content, be sure to read the BarBend Equipment Testing Methodology page.

Magnetic and Air Resistance

While we’re no stranger to the challenges that air bikes can display in the throes of a cardio workout — studies report that riding an air bike can be a great way to improve anaerobic and aerobic endurance — we were surprised at the riding experience presented through the dual air and magnetic resistance. (3)(4) 

There’s typically a direct correlation between your training intensity and the amount of resistance created through the dampener, so having the option to toggle the intensity from the start made for efficient warm-ups and hard-nosed finishers alike.

“Having the ability to toggle the resistance also allowed for slower-paced training,” noted our tester, a certified personal trainer. “This helped create a good working environment that still provided a challenge. I would suspect that most garage gym owners will find this feature to be worthwhile.”

Our tester training on the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike

We’ve spent lots of time on the best magnetic exercise bikes and rowers, but seeing this tech infused with an air bike makes for a pleasant surprise. There are eight different levels of intensity, too, so you can toggle your settings based on your workout preferences. 

Below are the descriptions from Xebex Fitness in reference to each magnetic resistance level.

Levels 1-2: Lighter than the brand’s standard air bike resistance. Good for light warm-up/cool-down, endurance training, and young/elder athletes.

Level 3: Standard air bike resistance.

Level 4-5: Heavier than the brand’s standard air bike resistance. Novice-level hill climbs, good for power and cardiovascular training.

Level 6-8: Heaviest levels. Expert-level hill climbs, power training, burn more calories per hour with higher watts.

Updated Monitor

In addition to the resistance perks, this Xebex Fitness profile also features a redesigned monitor that can provide an easy-to-read summary of your desired in-training stats, including Time, Calories Burned, Wattage, RPM, and more. According to our tester, a certified personal trainer, the readouts are clear and easily visible as you pump and pedal through your cardiovascular sessions.

However, we rated the monitor at 4.25 out of 5, as making adjustments to the preset modes and toggling through settings can be a pain (literally) when in the middle of a circuit. “I had trouble reaching the display once the handlebars began to move,” our tester said. “Access is limited, so I would frequently hit my arms across the levers as I tried to toggle through the available modes.”

Control console on the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike.

Speaking of the available display modes, we found that there weren’t too many differences between them. From our trials, we found that they essentially altered the displayed speed and watts to averaged metrics. “While I could see this being a benefit for some athletes, I didn’t really feel more informed,” noted our tester.

There are also some preset intervals for HIIT training, although we found the programming to be somewhat underwhelming, especially when compared with some of the best exercise bikes with virtual courses.

Large, Contoured Saddle

We already know that there’s some discomfort at hand when hopping on for an air bike workout — it’s an intense training discipline, after all. However, that’s no excuse for the bike itself to be uncomfortable in reference to the ergonomics. Thankfully, the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike features a large 12-inch seat pad with convenient contours that helped us remain in the saddle longer.

“I compared this to the brand’s spin bike, which is part of my personal home gym, and I’m a way bigger fan of this larger seat pad,” said our tester in reference to their 4.5 out of 5 seat rating. “The contouring is just right, and I had no issues when sitting down for some longer, lower-intensity sessions.”

Our tester adjusting the seat of the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike

In terms of adjustments, we also appreciated the sturdiness across the seat settings. The lock-and-pinion design maintains its placement easily during high-intensity training, giving us some additional peace of mind. You don’t want to be sitting atop the pad, focused on your arm and leg movements, and suddenly feel the seat drop out from under you, right?

What to Consider Before Buying the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike

Based on her experience with a plethora of air bikes like the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike, BarBend expert reviewer Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, notes that there aren’t too many differences from one silhouette to the next. However, there are still some major factors and specs to consider before signing up for this cardio machine, regardless of which brand you’re looking at.

Available Space

Naturally, your Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike (or any piece of home gym equipment for that matter) will be a pointless purchase if you can’t fit your new machine within your space. Be sure to measure how much flooring you have available for training and look to see if your air bike can fit comfortably within the dimensions.

We recommend leaving a little space around the machine itself for easier entry and exit, too, so a good practice is to measure for a larger item like a loveseat, which typically clocks in at 58 inches long by 38 inches wide. (2) If you have the room available for a new loveseat, you should have a large enough floor plan for a new air bike.

Drivetrain

Capritto states that deciding between a chain-drive system and a belt-drive system is one factor that can impact your workout experience most. “A belt drive, which the Rogue Echo Bike utilizes, produces an overall smoother pedaling experience. Belt drives also require less maintenance than chain drives, and they are quieter. Chain drives are noisier and require more frequent maintenance. For some reason, too, I’ve found that belt-drive air bikes seem to require more work for the same output.”

The chain drive system and flywheel of the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike

Despite this input, there’s still some merit to choosing a chain-driven air bike like the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike. Naturally, the pedaling motion and feedback can better mimic the chain you’d see on a typical road bike. If you frequently split your training between on-road and in-gym workouts, this could be a worthwhile pick.

[Related: SkiErg vs Rower vs Air Bike: Which Should You Buy for Your Home Gym?]

Training Preferences

You should also look at your training style and how you prefer to work out — you may not even need an air bike. “This isn’t really a downside, but air bikes are pretty niche, mainly serving the CrossFit community. They’re not the right fit for a lot of people,” adds Capritto. “Those looking for a high-tech bike with a screen to stream workouts should look elsewhere, specifically into magnetic resistance bikes (like those from NordicTrack and Peloton).”

Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike Vs. The Competition

As BarBend expert reviewer Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, puts it, there are a number of similarities from one air bike to the next. We share that sentiment after testing 25 different profiles over the years, which is why the added magnetic resistance system featured in the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike is such a unique offering. 

That said, we’ve outlined a few of the most comparable air bikes to this Xebex Fitness offering below — the original Xebex Air Bike, Rogue Echo Air Bike, and the Assault Fitness AssaultBike Classic.

The easiest comparison to the AirPlus Performance Bike is Xebex Fitness’s other air bike — simply named the Xebex Air Bike. These two machines are virtually identical, with the same footprint, net weight, and weight capacity. 

However, the addition of the AirPlus technology does increase the price of the former to the tune of $150. Honestly, if you just want an affordable air bike, it may be best to go with the original silhouette. If you want the added perks of magnetic resistance, the AirPlus Performance Bike is our recommendation.

Next, the Echo Air Bike from Rogue Fitness features a slightly larger footprint at 11.27 square inches compared to the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike’s 8.67-square-foot measurements. Plus, the weight capacity is slightly lower, with the Rogue capping at 330 pounds. 

However, the main benefit of the Echo Bike versus the AirPlus Performance Bike lies in the drivetrain. Rogue’s belt-driven system can be much quieter during operation and will require less maintenance over time. For more information on this Rogue Fitness offering, be sure to read our full Rogue Echo Air Bike Review.

Our tester riding on the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike

Finally, the AssaultBike Classic from Assault Fitness is the cheapest air bike comparable to the Xebex silhouette. The $200 savings could be a no-brainer for budget-minded athletes looking to expand their home gym, especially since both profiles operate using a chain-driven system. 

We do, though, still think the Xebex may be worth the extra coin due to the aforementioned magnetic resistance system, as well as the higher weight capacity — 350 pounds versus 300 pounds, respectively.

Places to Buy the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike

For purchases inside the United States, the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike is available online via the third-party retailer Get RX’d.

Customer Experience

According to our tester, the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike arrived well-packaged with no signs of wear and tear that could be picked up during transport — a true surprise in comparison to other large cardio machines we’ve had shipped in the past.

Getting the bike assembled was also an easy endeavor thanks to the clear instructions and the minimal parts (seven in total). In total, we spent roughly 30 minutes in construction, which could have been achieved more quickly had we not taken extra care to read through the steps multiple times.

Warranties

According to Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, your exercise bike should feature a warranty that covers the frame, parts, and labor. While the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike does come with five-year coverage for the frame and two-year parts support — both recommended time frames from Capritto — there is no support for labor costs. This means that you could be fronting the bill for any work or maintenance needed throughout the bike’s lifespan.

Company Information

Established in 1985, Xebex Fitness has been a prominent provider of high-quality fitness equipment, including treadmills, rowing machines, and (of course) air bikes. Each product is designed in the United States, while manufacturing is conducted in Taiwan.

To contact Xebex Fitness for any customer support issues, the easiest method of communication would be email. The brand can be reached at info@xebexfitness.com.

In Conclusion

While the air bike category may feature more durable, specialized profiles that can cater more to the grueling demands of, say, a CrossFit box, the Xebex AirPlus Performance Bike still has a place carved out for itself amongst the competition thanks to a comfortable riding setup and a unique dual air and magnetic resistance system. While we do wish that the display was easier to reach mid-workout, we still feel the experience is versatile enough for plenty of garage gyms and budding air bike enthusiasts.

When thinking of adding an air bike to your home gym setup, be sure to measure how much space you have available for such a machine, and begin to think about the drivetrain you want. For example, the chain-driven system featured in this Xebex Fitness offering can be great for mimicking on-road cycling, but will require some additional maintenance and create quite the racket during training. Use our findings as a roadmap and get ready to up the ante with your next cardio session.

FAQs

References

Moghaddam, M., Cervantes, M., Cheshier, B., & Jacobson, B. H. (2023). Sprint interval training on Stationary Air Bike elicits cardiorespiratory adaptations while being time-efficient. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 37(9), 1795–1801. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37616537/

Jaramillo, C. (2022, December 29). A guide to sofa dimensions & sizes. SeatUp, LLC. https://seatup.com/blog/guide-to-sofa-dimensions/

Browne, J. D., Carter, R., Robinson, A., Waldrup, B., Zhang, G., Carrillo, E., Dinh, M., Arnold, M. T., Hu, J., Neufeld, E. V., & Dolezal, B. A. (2020, September 1). Not all HIFT classes are created equal: Evaluating energy expenditure and relative intensity of a high-intensity functional training regimen. International journal of exercise science. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7523891/

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