Dual Action Exercise Bike

A dual action exercise bike is a great way to get a total body workout in a short amount of time.  In fact, many therapists have a dual action exercise to use on their own clients because they not only strengthen muscles, but also do a good job of stretching the muscles of the neck and back.  

Buying Tips 

If you are thinking about buying a dual action exercise bike here are some points to consider. 

First, stability, should be a main concern.  The wider the base, the more stable the bike will be.  If you are having trouble choosing between two different bikes, consider the one with a wider base. 

Second, ergonomics, plays a big factor in how comfortable the bike is.  The seat cushion should be large and padded.  Also the handles should be comfortable and when they are fully extended, so not make it hard to reach. 

Third, resistance, or how the resistance is provided often determines the quality of the workout.  More expensive exercise bikes have magnetic resistance.  Lower priced bikes often have fan resistance. 

Fourth, electronic display, can be a deciding factor.  Some people just want a basic display to tell them how fast they are pedaling or how far they have gone.  Other people want more advanced features like heart rate monitoring or a preprogrammed workout. 

Popular Models 

Schwinn Airdyne Upright Dual Action Exercise Bike 

$625  A classic model that features an upright seat and air resistance.  It comes with a console to track time, distance, calories, and rotations per minute.  It weighs about 96 pounds.  The fan resistance gives a smooth workout and you can have as much resistance as you want.  The chain drive system is very quiet and it has a 30 year warranty on the frame, 3 year warranty on the parts and electronics, and a one year labor warranty. 

Lamar  Fitness Air Force Dual Action Exercise Bike 

$510 One of the nicest features of this bike is the back support.   Thanks to a back rest, you can use it as an upright or a recumbent exercise bike.  It has an electronic monitor to track your time, distance, speed and calories burned.  It has a maximum weight capacity of 350 pounds.  The resistance is provided by the fan, so the faster you pedal, the more resistance you get, which provides a great workout, but one that keeps you cool at the same time. 

Body Max XFR1000 Pro-Cycle Fan Rider 

$250 This is an upright dual action exercise bike that is fan driven.  It has nice over sized pedals for comfort and safety.  There is a built in LCD computer that tells you your speed, distance, RPM, and calorie feedback.  It has a 10 year frame warranty.  The seat is adjustable so you can have a great workout, and it also comes with a water bottle holder for convenience. 
 

Pure Fitness Dual Action Exercise Bike 

$200 This bike features 5 function electronics, dual action handles, and a soft polyurethane seat.  It weighs about 38 pounds.  For a cheaper bike, it is very sturdy.