# Concept2 BikeErg vs Assault AirBike Source: https://rowandspin.co.uk/blog/concept2-bikeerg-vs-assault-bike Published: 2026-10-12 Publisher: Row and Spin **In short:** The Concept2 BikeErg is a fan bike without moving arms, set up like a road bike with a damper and the PM5 monitor for detailed data. The Assault AirBike is a fan bike with moving arms, an open fan and a simpler console. Pick the BikeErg for cycling-style training and data, the AirBike for arms-and-legs sessions. Both bikes use a fan for resistance, and both appear in many gyms, so they are often treated as rivals. They are built for quite different riding, though. The BikeErg feels like a bike on a turbo trainer, while the Assault AirBike works the arms and legs together. This comparison uses widely published facts from each maker on the riding position, resistance, monitor, data and space. Check the makers' current specifications before you buy, as models and consoles are updated. ## Two different ideas of a fan bike The **Concept2 BikeErg** is a fan bike designed to feel like cycling. It has a road style saddle and handlebars, a flywheel fan inside a housing with a damper, and no moving arms. Concept2 makes it to use the same PM5 monitor as its RowErg and SkiErg, and you can fit your own pedals and saddle. The **Assault AirBike** is a classic air bike with handles that move with the pedals and a large open fan at the front. It sits you upright, and you push and pull the handles as you pedal. There is no damper, so resistance depends entirely on how hard you work. See [what is an air bike](https://rowandspin.co.uk/blog/what-is-an-air-bike) for background. ## Resistance and feel On the BikeErg, the damper lever changes how much air reaches the fan, which changes the feel from a light, spinning gear to a heavier, climbing gear. The fan's inertia gives a smooth, road-like feel when you pedal at a steady cadence. Concept2's guide to damper settings on its rowers applies in the same way; see our [Concept2 damper settings](https://rowandspin.co.uk/blog/concept2-damper-settings) explainer. On the Assault AirBike, resistance rises steeply as you go faster, and your arms add to the fan's speed. Sprints feel very hard very quickly, which is why it is popular for short intervals. Steady riding is possible but feels less like cycling than on the BikeErg. ## Monitor and data The BikeErg uses the **PM5**, which shows watts, cadence, distance, pace and more, records workouts and connects by Bluetooth and ANT+ to apps such as ErgData and many third-party training apps. Our guide to the [Concept2 Logbook and PM5](https://rowandspin.co.uk/blog/how-to-use-concept2-logbook) explains how to save sessions, and [cycling power zones](https://rowandspin.co.uk/blog/cycling-power-zones-explained) shows how to use watts. The Assault AirBike console shows time, distance, calories, watts and RPM, with interval programmes. App connectivity depends on the model and console version, so check the maker's page. If logging every session matters to you, the PM5 is the stronger choice. | Point | Concept2 BikeErg | Assault AirBike | | --- | --- | --- | | Moving arms | No | Yes | | Resistance | Fan with damper | Open fan, no damper | | Position | Road bike style | Upright | | Monitor | PM5 with Bluetooth and ANT+ | Assault console, varies by model | | Saddle and pedals | Swappable for standard bike parts | Supplied seat and pedals | From widely published maker information; check current specifications ## Fit and adjustment The BikeErg has an adjustable seat post and handlebar height, and you can swap in your own saddle and clip-in pedals. That lets a cyclist match the position of their road bike. Our guide on [how to set up a spin bike](https://rowandspin.co.uk/blog/how-to-set-up-a-spin-bike) uses the same principles. The Assault AirBike seat adjusts up and down and fore and aft, but the moving handles set the reach, so it fits a wide range of riders without much fuss. It suits shared home gyms where several people ride. ## Noise, airflow and space Both bikes are loud at high effort, because the fan moves air. The Assault's open fan blows air at the rider, which many people like during hard intervals. The BikeErg's fan is enclosed, and the air leaves the housing to the sides. In floor space, the two are broadly similar to a large exercise bike. Neither folds. Plan for a permanent spot with a mat underneath; see [mats under rowing machines and bikes](https://rowandspin.co.uk/blog/rowing-machine-and-bike-mats). ## Which should you choose? Choose the **Concept2 BikeErg** if you want cycling-style training, detailed data, app logging and the ability to fit your own pedals and saddle. Choose the **Assault AirBike** if you want arms-and-legs intervals, a simple set-up for several users and the blast of an open fan. If you would rather have a quieter bike with app classes, compare our [best spin bikes](https://rowandspin.co.uk/best/best-spin-bike-uk) and [best Peloton alternative bikes](https://rowandspin.co.uk/best/best-peloton-alternative-bike). ## Frequently asked questions **Does the BikeErg have moving arms?** No. The BikeErg has fixed handlebars like a road bike. For moving arms, look at an air bike such as the Assault AirBike. **Can I use Zwift with a BikeErg?** The PM5 broadcasts power and cadence by Bluetooth and ANT+, so the BikeErg can pair with many training apps, including Zwift. Check Concept2's current compatibility notes. **Which is louder?** Both are loud at high effort. The Assault's open fan also blows air at you, which some riders notice more. **Can I fit clip-in pedals?** On the BikeErg you can fit standard bike pedals. On the Assault AirBike, check the maker's guidance before changing pedals. ## Buying guides on this topic - https://rowandspin.co.uk/best/best-spin-bike-uk - https://rowandspin.co.uk/best/best-peloton-alternative-bike - https://rowandspin.co.uk/best/best-exercise-bike-uk ## Sources - [Concept2 BikeErg](https://www.concept2.co.uk/)