Schwinn Airdyne

The Schwinn Airdyne looks different than most upright exercise bikes, but reviewers say this is one bike that is built to last. The Airdyne uses air resistance instead of the usual magnetic system, which means the resistance automatically increases as you pedal harder and faster -- much like it does on a real road bike. In addition, you are not limited to a set amount of resistance like most exercise bikes. Other features include two workout programs, a 300-pound weight capacity and a small LCD display that tracks time, distance, calories, rpm, heart rate and workload; you'll need your own chest strap to see heart-rate data.

Users praise the Airdyne's reliability and durability, and some owners report owning it for 12 years or more without problems. This reliability is backed by a lengthy warranty: 30 years for the frame, three years for parts and electronics and one year for labor and wear items. Reviewers like how easy it is to use, since you don't have to mess with setting manual resistance. The air system also works like a fan to cool you off while exercising. However, the Airdyne is noisier than exercise bikes with magnetic resistance, and some say the seat is uncomfortable, a common complaint for upright exercise bikes. We also saw a few complaints that the assembly instructions are confusing. If you can't afford to spend this much, the Stamina 5325 (*Est. $180) is a budget bike that uses a magnetic resistance system. However, it's not as durable and has a short warranty.

The Schwinn Airdyne attracts hundreds of reviews at Buzzillions.com, a site that compiles owner reviews from various online retailers. Amazon.com is another good source for user reviews, and we especially appreciate that you can see which reviewers are verified owners. Bestcovery.com has a brief review, but it's not clear whether this analysis is based on hands-on testing.