Air bike maintenance and care

After each ride

Wipe sweat from the seat, handles, frame and monitor with a soft cloth, then dry them. Sweat is salty and, over time, can mark paint and corrode bolts. A quick wipe is the single most useful habit.

Wipe the monitor with a dry microfibre cloth and avoid spraying liquid into its buttons. See how to clean an exercise bike for safe cleaners.

The fan

The fan pulls in air, and with it dust and pet hair. A build-up can make the fan less smooth and noisier. Every few weeks, with the bike stopped, use a soft brush or a vacuum with a brush attachment on the guard and the visible fan blades.

Do not remove the fan guard unless the manual tells you how. The guard keeps fingers away from the blades.

Note:Never reach towards the fan while it is turning. Make sure the fan and handles have stopped before cleaning or checking parts.

Chain or belt

Air bikes use either a chain or a belt to connect the pedals to the fan. Some older or classic models use a chain; others use a belt. Check the manual or look through the cover.

A chain needs cleaning and a light oiling every so often, using a light chain lubricant applied sparingly. Wipe off any excess. A belt needs no oil: check it for cracks and slipping. Our guide to spin bike chain and belt care applies to air bikes too.

Arms, pivots and pedals

The moving arms pivot on bolts or bushings at their base, and each arm links to the crank. These joints carry a lot of force. Every few weeks, check that the arms have no side-to-side play and that the bolts are tight.

If a pivot squeaks, the manual will say whether to grease it and with what. Some pivots use sealed bearings that need no grease. Check the pedals too: a loose pedal clicks once per turn. Tighten pedals in the right direction, as the left pedal usually has a reverse thread.

1. 1

   Grip each arm and rock it gently from side to side. There should be no play.

2. 2

   Check the bolts at each arm pivot and link.

3. 3

   Check both pedals for tightness.

4. 4

   Check the seat clamp and seat post bolt.

5. 5

   Check the frame and foot bolts.

Common noises

Our guide to exercise bike knocking noises covers more causes that apply to all bikes.

Placement and storage

Keep the bike on a firm, level floor, ideally on a mat to protect the floor and reduce vibration. In a garage, wipe it more often and cover it between sessions to keep damp off the chain and bolts.

If you are choosing between machines, see our air bike vs spin bike comparison, or browse our best spin bikes for quieter options.

See our best spin bikes →

A simple routine

After each ride: wipe down. Every few weeks: dust the fan, check arm pivots, pedals and bolts. As the manual states: oil the chain. Every few months: look over the whole frame for cracks, rust or damage, and replace worn parts with the maker's spares.

Frequently asked questions

Do air bikes need oiling? Only some parts: a chain, and pivots where the manual says so. Belts and sealed bearings need no oil.

Why does my air bike squeak? Usually a dry or loose arm pivot or a loose pedal. Tighten first, then lubricate if the manual allows.

How do I clean an air bike fan? With the bike stopped, brush or vacuum the guard and visible blades. Do not remove the guard unless the manual explains how.

Can I keep an air bike in a garage? Yes, but damp can rust the chain and bolts. Wipe it down and cover it between sessions.