A popular form of aerobic exercise is cycling. Not only does this activity tone our buns and thighs, it’s one of the more efficient calorie-burning workouts that can really burn extra pounds that many of us would be happy to get rid of.
Having said that, it’s no news that many people don’t have the luxury of time to bring their bikes out on the road to cycle long distances and enjoy the challenge of multi-terrain training. That’s why working out on an exercise bike at home is fast becoming the preferred alternative to actually cycling outdoors.
Just like selecting a good set of wheels for your cycling, finding a good home-based exercise bike will go a long way, literally, to allow you to enjoy the full benefits of this aerobic training without leaving the comfort of your own home.
Scouring the web and looking at countless options, my research has led me to the Schwinn 230 Recumbent Exercise Bike.
What to consider when buying an exercise bike
It may seem like a straightforward decision, but there are a few critical factors to consider when selecting this category of aerobic training equipment:
Resistance Levels
Preset Programs and Profile Courses
Recumbent Seat
Pedals
Panel Adjustment
Miscellaneous
Varying resistance is key
Many seasoned athletes will know that sticking the same old training routines will result in stagnation; there is minimal improvement and progress, even if you train every day.
The same goes for cycling; if you only cycle at one or just a few different resistance levels, then the benefits you get out of cycling is bound to plateau.
That is why being able to vary the resistance level on your recumbent exercise bike is crucial if you want to see your endurance, stamina, and strength improve over time.
The Schwinn 230 Recumbent Exercise Bike has a whopping 16 resistance levels, satisfying even the most demanding of cycling enthusiasts.
Which route would you like to cycle today?
Just like resistance levels, it’s easy to get bored and stagnate if you were to travel the same route every day.
It’s generally preferred that an exercise back have different preset programs and profile courses to give the rider variety and an ever changing sense of challenge.
The Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike has a good six preset programs (calorie goal, BMI measurement, recovery test, results mode, quick start, and manual mode), as well as 10 different profile courses for you to choose from. This allows you to train according to your specific needs, and select the workout that’s appropriate for you according to your physical conditions and training goals.
Treat your Behind well!
Now, as we train long and hard on our exercise bikes, we want to be sure not to neglect our butt! If the aerobic bike does not have a good seat with proper cushioning, then chances are that you’ll find it difficult to sustain riding over longer periods, and you’ll get uncomfortable fairly quickly.
Also, the seat needs to be adjustable. If it’s in a fixed position that doesn’t accommodate your physique, then it can result in you training in the wrong posture, and ultimately causing injury without you even knowing it!
The Schwinn 230 comes with an anatomically designed recumbent seat, which not only offers a dual-position lumbar support for added comfort, but also a micro-adjustable fore/aft seat slider that accommodate a variety of body types and sizes.
Get a grip!
When cycling at high speeds, a good pair of pedals will prevent your feet from suddenly losing its grip which may be quite dangerous.
And like a well-cushioned seat, a properly fitted set of pedals will ensure a comfortable ride throughout your training routine.
The Schwinn 230 Bike comes with its unique wide ‘Bio-Fit’ pedals for maximum comfort and grip.
Where are you looking?
Most makers of conventional exercise bikes take for granted that the angle of their instrument panels is a perfect fit for all users.
The truth is, we come in all shapes and sizes … ok, I mean different heights, and sometimes a fixed angle might not be comfortable for some. If a person is too tall or too short, then having to slouch or stretch while training just to monitor your performance on the panel is way too inconvenient.
That’s why the Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike comes with a three-position angle adjustment LCD viewing console that can easily be aligned according to your height.
Other benefits
While the above are the key factors to think about, the Schwinn 230 has some added perks that make it a darling choice among recumbent exercise bikes.
These include handle bars with integrated heart-rate grips for convenient monitoring of your heart rate, a reading rack for you to place your reading materials while exercising, a water bottle holder that saves you the trouble of leaving your bike to get a drink, and even transport wheels that protect your floor and makes the bike easy to store.
Does it come with a warranty?
This exercise station comes with a 10 years warranty on its frame, 1 year on electrical and 2 years mechanical parts, 6 months for wear and tear items and 90 days for labor.
This cardio trainer has received rave reviews from most consumers on the net with an average of 4.2 out of 5 from most reviewers on Amazon.
Here are some of the comments to date:
“Comfortable workout machine at a great price”
“Great bike… I might actually get into shape!”
“Great value – excellent product”
“Comfortable Bike”
“Quite pleased with product”
“Very Smart Purchase”
“Love this machine!”
“Great bike”
“Very Pleased”
“Excellent exercise bike”
Any complaints?
I found very few complaints for this pair of weights on consumer sites around the internet. One consumer did express concern that he might not be able to read the LCD panel if the room was too dark. This can be rectified by simply placing the bike near the window or adjusting the angle of the panel.
Where Can You Buy the Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike?
You can buy this recumbent exercise bike from Amazon. At the moment, they are giving a generous discount off this item and from what I can tell, Amazon does currently have the best deal. Click here to view on Amazon.
Where Can You Read More Reviews for the Schwinn 230 Bike?
The best place for reviews from people who actually use the product is Amazon. Click here to read more.
