AssaultBike Classic, Pro X or Elite: the big comparison of the AirBikes

The AssaultBike runs without electricity: a fan wheel creates the resistance, and the harder you pedal and pull, the harder the training gets. But which of the three models suits you? On this page we compare the AssaultBike Classic, the AssaultBike Pro X – Belt Drive and the AssaultBike Elite point by point: drive, frame, console, seat and area of use.

All three are motorless, have air resistance, arm and leg drive and a console with ANT+ and Bluetooth. The differences lie in the drive, the build and the comfort. The Classic is the entry-level model, the Pro X brings the quiet belt drive and the Elite the reinforced full-steel frame with the most features.

AssaultBike Classic The entry-level model for every fitness level. View product

AssaultBike Pro X – Belt Drive Quiet belt drive, extremely stable and low-maintenance. View product

AssaultBike Elite Reinforced frame for the highest demands. View product

Classic, Pro X or Elite: the difference at a glance

In air resistance, being motorless, arm and leg drive and console connectivity, all three are the same. If you are torn between the models, decide mainly by noise level, maintenance effort, body height and place of use.

The data in direct comparison

All details at a glance. You will find the prices on the product pages.

What all three models have in common

All AssaultBikes work on the same principle: a large fan wheel creates the resistance, and you set the intensity solely through your own power. There are no levels and no delay. The harder you pedal and pull, the higher the resistance, whether in sprints, in HIIT or in long endurance training.

• 100% motorless: no power, no plug, usable anywhere
• Arms and legs work at the same time, and if you wish you can also load them separately
• Console with connectivity for heart rate straps via ANT+ and Bluetooth
• A guided movement that is easy on the joints, with freely selectable intensity
• Assembly in about 30 to 45 minutes for one person
• Suitable for beginners, advanced users and pros

The AirBike works legs, glutes, arms, shoulders and core in one workout. That makes it one of the most effective cardio machines with high calorie burn.

AssaultBike Classic in detail

The AssaultBike Classic is the perfect combination of cross trainer and ergometer and the entry-level model of the range. Developed by a team of sports and fitness engineers and constantly optimised by athletes, trainers and studio owners, it is the AirBike for everyone who wants to train hard and efficiently at home or in the studio.

• Chain drive and powder-coated steel frame with industrial bearings on all moving parts
• Total weight of around 45 kg, easy to move with transport wheels
• Detachable console with LCD display, ANT+ and Bluetooth
• Power display up to 1,900 watts at 90 RPM, as watts you produce yourself
• Height-adjustable seat for body heights of about 150 to 200 cm

The Classic is the right choice if you are looking for a robust AirBike for the home gym and do not want to miss anything when getting started.

AssaultBike Pro X in detail

The AssaultBike Pro X – Belt Drive was developed for home gyms and professional studios. The belt drive sets standards in smoothness and stability and makes the Pro X a quiet all-rounder.

• Belt Drive: quiet belt drive, no chain oiling needed
• Integrated protection against dirt and sweat
• Console with Bluetooth and ANT+ for heart rate straps and app tracking
• Seat with height adjustment
• Compact with wheels, weight approx. 53.8 kg

The Pro X is the right choice if you are looking for a quiet, low-maintenance AirBike, for example for a flat, for early-morning training or for a studio with music.

AssaultBike Elite in detail

The AssaultBike Elite is the premium model of the range. With its smooth, easy running, ergonomic design and extended console functions it takes interval training to the next level.

• Reinforced full-steel frame and double chain drive, for sturdily built people up to about 2 m and 160 kg
• Dual-action system: pulling and pedalling for full-body training
• Forward and backward pedalling for variety in leg work and coordination
• Detachable console with high-resolution LCD, Bluetooth®, ANT+ and dedicated HIIT intervals
• Large, comfortable seat with adjustable seat post and removable wind guard

The Elite is the right choice if you want the maximum in stability, comfort and features, whether in the home gym or in the studio.

Chain or belt: the drive compared

The drive is the biggest technical difference between the models. The power of your legs and arms is transferred to the fan wheel either by a chain or by a belt.

If noise level and low maintenance matter to you, the Pro X is the obvious choice. If you want the most stable machine, the Elite offers the reinforced construction.

Console and training data

All three consoles show your performance live and connect to heart rate straps via ANT+ and Bluetooth. These programmes are available to you:

This lets you keep track of your training, from short sprint intervals to long, steady sessions. A training plan to get started is given in the article Getting started with fitness: the perfect training plan for beginners.

Which AssaultBike suits you?

If you are still unsure, take a look at the product pages: AssaultBike Classic, AssaultBike Pro X and AssaultBike Elite. You will find more on AirBike training in the AssaultBike overview.

Training on the AssaultBike

If you have never trained on an AirBike before, start slowly. At the beginning you will only last a few seconds or minutes, depending on the intensity. Increase duration and intensity step by step and you will quickly reach new personal bests.

The figures are guideline values for healthy people: adjust duration and intensity to your level and get medical advice first if you have any pre-existing conditions. Two to three sessions a week are enough to start with. For short sessions, the article Training when you're short on time: efficient workouts with Assault equipment is worth a look.

Care, spare parts and additions

After your first workout, retighten the screws once, then occasional checks are enough. Tips on care are given in the expert guide to equipment care and safety. You will find suitable parts in the bike spare parts, sorted by Classic, Pro and Elite.

To complement the bike, the AssaultRunner as a self-powered treadmill, presented in the AssaultRunner overview, and the AssaultRower for rowing in the AssaultRower overview are a good fit. You will find ideas for your home gym in the article Setting up a home gym: equipment and kit for maximum performance.

FAQ: frequently asked questions about the AssaultBike comparison

What is the difference between the Classic, Pro X and Elite?
The Classic is the entry-level model with chain drive. The Pro X has a quiet, low-maintenance belt drive. The Elite has a reinforced full-steel frame, double chain drive, a large seat and the most features.

Does an AssaultBike need electricity?
No, all three models are 100% motorless and run only on your own power.

Which bike is the quietest?
The Pro X with its belt drive runs significantly more quietly than the chain models.

Do I have to oil the chain on the Pro X?
No, with the belt drive chain oiling is not needed. Only occasional checks are necessary.

Which bike suits tall and powerfully built people?
With its reinforced full-steel frame the Elite is designed for sturdily built people up to about 2 m and 160 kg.

What body height is the Classic suitable for?
The height-adjustable seat fits body heights of about 150 to 200 cm.

Can I connect a heart rate strap?
Yes, all consoles are compatible with ANT+ and Bluetooth.

What can only the Elite do?
The Elite offers forward and backward pedalling, a large seat with adjustable seat post, a removable wind guard and dedicated HIIT programmes on the console.

How long does assembly take?
For all models about 30 to 45 minutes for one person. Tools and instructions are included.

How heavy are the bikes?
The Classic weighs around 45 kg, the Pro X approx. 53.8 kg.

Is the training easy on the joints?
The guided, flowing movements put significantly less load on the joints than running or jumping. If you have any pre-existing conditions, discuss training with your doctor or therapist first.

Where do I find spare parts?
In the bike spare parts category, sorted by Classic, Pro X and Elite.