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#1 Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike review

Chris L.
January 12, 2021

The Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike has an impressive set of features for its price range. It comes with built-in speakers, a USB charging port, and a 3-speed cooling fan so that you're utterly comfy while going for a ride. There are also 22 preset programs to challenge yourself as you become more adept on the bike.

Is the Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike best for you?

The Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike is a great mid-range stationary bike. It's programming capabilities are second-to-none considering it features 22 preset programs as well as 20 resistance levels. The console has also received a massive upgrade, allowing you to get the maximum amount of enjoyment out of your purchase.

The console features the DualTrack LCD screen system, allowing you to keep track of your goals. You can also plug in your MP3 player, smartphone, or tablet into the USB port. MP3 connectivity allows you to play your workout playlists over the machine itself, so you can pump yourself up. While it's missing a few features you find with the higher-end bikes, such as Bluetooth connectivity, it's an excellent model for those wanting a solid bike without spending a fortune.

Consider Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike if...

  • You need ample workout programs. Some exercise bikes don't offer any preset programs for you to utilize. Fortunately, the Schwinn 230 contains 22 programs from beginner to advanced. You can focus on heart, calorie burning, or anything else to get the exact workout you desire.
  • You want to share the bike. The Schwinn 230 allows you to develop 2 user profiles. That means you can keep track of your fitness progress without your partner's progress interfering with the data.
  • You like listening to music. This bike comes with a built-in sound system. You can plug in your device and listen to workout jams directly through the machine.

Avoid Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike if...

  • You want heavy resistance. This bike features a 13-pound flywheel, which is lighter than most. As a result, you may not get as much resistance as you're looking for if you really want to push your legs.
  • You like Bluetooth connectivity. The Schwinn 230 doesn't come with Bluetooth compatibility. That means if you want to listen to music over the bike's speakers, you need to physically plug in an MP3 player.
  • You want a heart rate monitor for your chest. Lack of wireless connectivity means you have to grip the handlebars to monitor your heart rate. There's no chest strap to get that data for you.

Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike pros & cons

Pros

  • 22 fitness programs
  • Quiet operation
  • Solid sound system
  • 3-speed fan
  • Media tray

Cons

  • Light flywheel
  • No Bluetooth

Construction and design

  • Seat: The Schwinn 230 comes with a contoured and ventilated seat with extra lumbar support. It also comes with a slider system so that you can be as far back or as close to the pedals as you need to be.
  • Pedals: The bike comes with standard pedals complete with straps to help strengthen your quadriceps and hamstrings. The straps also help prevent your feet from accidentally slipping off.
  • Handlebars: The Schwinn 230 features ergonomically-positioned handlebars with padding. They also come with integrated heart rate sensors, so you just need to grip them tightly to see where your heart rate is at.
  • Console: The updated console comes with an array of handy features, including a USB charging port, media shelf, 3-speed fan, and DualTrack LCD screen system to keep tabs on your progress.
  • Built-in Programs: There are 22 preset programs built into this bike, and you can create up to 2 user profiles.

Key Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike Specs

Reasons to buy Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike?

  • You want an easy time getting in and out of your bike. Schwinn 230 is a recumbent bike, allowing for easy access. You don't have a bar to step over to get into the chair. Plus, the bike is lower to the ground when compared to upright bikes.
  • You live with other people. Some workout equipment gets noisy. However, the Schwinn 230 comes with a magnetic resistance system, making it exceptionally quiet. You aren't going to disturb your family members or roommates with this device.
  • You want all the perks. With a water bottle holder and media tray, you can bring all your accessories along with you. You can exercise in total comfort with this bike.

Reasons to avoid Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike?

  • You're tall. Some reviewers have noted how it's tough using this bike if you're over 6'2". That tends to be a common problem with many recumbent bikes.
  • You're heavier. This bike can support weights of up to 300 pounds. If you weigh more than that, then you may want to look for something with a sturdier frame.

What real Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike reviews say

We spent 18 hours scouring the web (reading over 253 customer reviews). Our conclusion? Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike receives high praise! Our average consolidated user rating sits around a 4.6 - 4.74 (across several hundred reviews). Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike scored higher, on average, compared to their closest competitors.

What reviewers like

  • "This is an excellent exercise bike with all the bells and whistles. A great addition to my home gym."
  • "The bike has a very smooth ride on all resistances. No squick, no thump, just a smooth sound of a well-oil machine probably very close to those heavy duty commercial grade exercise bikes you see at the gym."
  • "I find it to be outstanding for anyone with physical disabilities that might prevent them from using a treadmill, upright bike or elliptical trainer."
  • "The bike is sturdy and extremely quiet."
  • "Low impact on your knees and joints."

What reviewers dislike

  • "Plastic seat and back. I personally haven't had any discomfort riding on a plastic seat but I could see that this may be slightly uncomfortable if you ride more frequently."
  • "It would be nice if the built in fan had a little more oomph."
  • "The built in speakers pretty much blow."
  • "When I finished assembly and turned on the monitor I quickly discovered that the magnetic resistance was locked on high."
  • "The iPhone app is functional, if a bit rudimentary."

Our verdict

The Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike is a resilient spin bike that's worth the money you pay for it. It's also packed with an impressive array of features, including 22 preset programs. There are also 20 resistance levels, so you can adjust as necessary depending on whether you're a beginner or advanced gym user.

The seating isn't the best around, and it doesn't come with as much connectivity as you might get with more modern bikes. However, if you don't need the fanciest stationary bike ever made, then this is a great option for its price range.

Where to buy Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike

You can purchase the Schwinn 230 Recumbent Bike from Amazon today. You can also look at other bikes made by Schwinn to see which one is best for your lifestyle. Plus, your exercise bike arrives with Amazon's fast, free shipping!