AFG 4 0 AH Hybrid Exercise Bike
AFG 4 0 AH Hybrid Exercise Bike
The AFG 4.0 AH hybrid exercise bike is ideal for anyone who’s looking for the access and support of a recumbent but who also desires the efficient riding position of an upright bike. Taking the best design features of a recumbent and blending it with a traditional upright model, the 4.0 AH incorporates a number of unique features, most notably a step-through design for easy on-and-off access. In addition, a rider’s body is positioned at a 45-degree angle, which is ergonomically the most ideal position for people with hip or joint issues. The seat is fully adjustable and includes integrated lumbar support. All AFG exercise bikes are made with substantial commercial-style frames that don’t tip or shake like lesser machines.
The 4.0 AH has a heavy-duty, 23-pound flywheel for smooth operation with magnetic brake resistance–the same featured on AFG’s commercial units. Riders can stop pedaling at any point during a workout thanks to AFG’s FreeSPIN technology–allowing the heavy-duty flywheel to spin independent of the pedals–so you can coast safely after you stop pedaling, eliminating the jarring stops that can place undue stress on your joints. The bike also comes with AFG’s unique ProFILE performance tracking feature, which allows riders to monitor important workout statistics over the lifetime of the product–including distance, pace, speed, calories, etc.
This bike includes 20 programmable resistance levels that make it easy to change workout intensity and 10 preset programs. The large 5-screen display of the computer console keeps you informed at all times. You can also incorporate heart rate training with the included wireless Polar receiver and chest strap (as well as the contact heart rate monitor integrated into the handlebar).
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Specifications:
- Resistance levels: 20
- Flywheel: 23 pounds
- Console feedback: 10×14 red LED dot-matrix, 5 windows, 16-digit alphanumeric
- Programs: Manual, Intervals, Weight Loss, Rolling Hills, Constant Watts, THR Zone 1, THR Zone 2, Cadence, Custom 1, Custom 2
- Heart rate monitoring: Contact and wireless (with included Polar receiver and chest strap)
- Maximum user weight: 325 pounds
Manufacturer’s Warranty
Lifetime warranty on the frame and brakes; three years on parts (five years with registration); one year on labor
About AFG
AFG is part of Johnson Health Tech, one of the largest manufacturers of fitness equipment in the world. The company is committed to designing, engineering, and manufacturing superior products for health clubs and homes. AFG’s manufacturing facilities rank among the most sophisticated in the industry, with an intricate mix of robotics and skilled workers that maintain the highest standards of accuracy and quality. Every stage of manufacturing undergoes a testing phase, and 10 percent of AFG’s products go through a rigorous quality inspection that includes completely taking them apart and reassembling them.
User Ratings and Reviews
4 Stars Nice bike, but….
This bike is very nice and I will mention what I think differentiate this from my old Schwinn (which I loved). First, let me tell you the most annoying thing….working on my laptop is virtually impossible with this bike. I know, it’s not something most people would do, but it’s what I do to catch up/stay ahead and it’s kind of important to me. Also, reading is not as easy either. With that said, I can tell you that this bike is very comfortable….almost too comfortable. Also, don’t forget this thing is rated for 325 pounds! It’s solid. Putting it together is easy….positioning it on a carpet can be trickier. LOL. The programs are easy to use. I don’t know that I like the seating position….possibly it is an acquired taste? 
It certainly has a bigger footprint than my old one and if space is an issue, this might not be for you. It’s not huge, but it *is* bigger. The pulse handle bars are just like my old one (in other words, GREAT). The warranty is great, but honestly, a lifetime warranty on the frame is really funny, because it would seem unlikely that you will be putting the kind of strain on the fram that would crack it. The exended parts warranty just for registering is nice (5 years vs. 3). Here is a link to the users manual (pdf): [...]
Overall, this is a nice bike, especially if you like this type of configuration. If you don’t, it might take some getting used to. It is a solid construction, and the seat is not bad at all (with my Schwinn, I had to change the seat because it was horrible).
I think the most important part of one of these machines is making the commitment to use it routinely. I think this ha enought bells and whistles to at least get you going.
4 Stars Nice home bike for the price.
The AFG 4.0 AH Hybrid Exercise Bike is a mix between a comfortable recumbent and a more efficient upright bike. The LED display is bright and features convenient settings such as manual mode, interval, cadence, threshold zone, and custom. Most casual users would just use the manual mode, but having the other settings is useful for more specific training. It rides solid, smooth, and very quiet… no rattling or squeaking. The single cupholder is convenient but i am dissappointed that it does not accommodate larger bottles. Padded saddle seat and backrest make it more comfortable to use than upright stationary bikes.
If you are a relatively short rider like me, a couple things to consider: adjusting the seat to reach the pedals puts the LCD display high enough that it will block your view of a tv that is placed directly in front of the bike. You will either have to position the tv slightly to the side or mount it high on the wall. Also, for the more picky short riders, I measured the crank arm length at 175mm. This means for your leg to be properly extended at the downward stroke, your knees will bend a little too much at the upward stroke. Most riders won’t care or even notice this, and it will not be a concern at all if you are average height.
IMHO the “relaxed” position and padded backrest is great if want to literally sit back and watch tv while getting a good cardio workout, but I prefer the intensity I get from an upright bike. It does not have the same feeling as you get on a conventional upright or spinning bike. If you are trying to simulate or train for road racing, I would stick to the uprights or spin bikes.
Despite what a previous review states, the bike is NOT 325 pounds. It is rated for up to 325 lb user, but the bike itself weighs about 130 lbs at most. The front support bars have wheels, so moving it just requires lifting the back end and rolling the whole bike on its wheels.
Overall, 4 stars for it’s better than average quality and price. If you are not familiar w/ exercise bikes, I would recommend testing a few different models before buying.
