As a faithful Schwinn customer whose previous elliptical had just broken down, I decided to go ahead and purchase this 430 model. Being a fitness freak (so my students say), I indeed need a fair amount of programs and the ability to keep track of my progress.
I’m a fitness instructor, which obviously makes me no stranger to workout machines. I have owned a personal elliptical for 15 years, and I think it’s safe to say that I know my way around these quite well.
In this review, I will go over the different features of this Schwinn 430 elliptical to give you a well-rounded insight from a professional perspective. Now keep in mind that I have purchased this elliptical as a seasoned instructor. My needs and expectations from this product may not be the same as yours, so without further ado, let’s dig into it!
The Schwinn 430 Elliptical Machine Reviewed
- Goal Track capability enables users to set...
- 20 inch stride with Precision Path foot motion...
- High speed, high inertia drive system offers easy...
- Large cushioned footplates contribute to...
- Ergonomically placed moving and fixed handlebars...
The Schwinn 430 elliptical is a mid-range budget machine with some great features that allow you to enjoy and track your workout sessions.
It features a plethora of options such as heart rate monitoring, dual display, preprogrammed workouts, and a workout tracker that helps you monitor your fitness progress. The Schwinn 430 elliptical stands out among other machines in his price-range as it features 20 resistance levels, and six different position inclines. I found the elliptical to be highly reliable, very well-built, and truly fairly priced.
Schwinn 430 Elliptical - Specs
- The manually adjustable ramp can be altered up to 10 degrees in 6 different positions
- 20 resistance levels
- Performance Tracking
- 22 different workout programs
- Heart rate monitoring
- Dual LCD displays
- Media rack + speakers
- A 20-inch stride length for a more natural walking/climbing experience
- Two-years warranty on mechanical parts
- One-year warranty on electronics
- Ten-year warranty on frame
Schwinn 430 Elliptical Key Features
Workout Programs
The Schwinn 430 can save two separate user profiles which is ideal if you also have a partner who works out. Each user can save their preferences and access any of the 22 preset exercise programs, and save two custom exercise programs. Additionally, this elliptical features two fitness tests, a manual mode, eight heart rate controlled workouts, and nine profile programs. What’s really cool about these heart rate programs is that they will be tailored to the data collected during your sessions.
Workout Data & Monitoring
Like I previously mentioned, there are two large LCD screens. They show a summary of your workout activity. They display workout duration, heart rate controls, speed, distance, intensity, and amount of calories burned. Besides, the interface has a quick start option to enable a no BS start of your workout session at the push of a button.
Incline
The Schwinn 430 boasts six incline levels that can take you up to 10 degrees. The inclination level and the ability to change it is very important if you want to target different muscle groups. The only drawback here is that you need to adjust the incline manually.
Resistance
The resistance system used in Schwinn ellipticals is, in my opinion, the best resistance in the market. Their system makes the elliptical brake using a magnetic brake pad, and electrical currents who control the pull. The system also prevents the brake pads from coming in contact with the flywheel, thus extending the brake system’s efficiency and durability. Keep in mind that you need to connect the Schwinn 430 to a 120-volt outlet to benefit from the resistance features. The Schwinn 430 also features an extension adapter that gives you more freedom as to where you chose to place your elliptical.
Drive
The belt drive system of Schwinn 430 is very quiet and offers a smooth pedaling motion. The flywheel enhances the experience of the pedaling as it is perimeter weighted. The flywheel’s weight is located in front of the pulley and is about 10 lbs (4.5 kg).
The diameter of the flywheel is slightly smaller than the pulley. It has two solid crank arms covered with a plastic sheet, giving the elliptical an appealing design.
Frame And Parts
Another cool feature is the handgrip and heart rate monitoring. You hold the sensors for less than a second, and the information is directly transferred to the screen. The system is good and allows you to create two separate profiles. I initially found the dual-screen confusing, but it became easier to navigate after setting up my user profile. It also features 22 programs, including eight heart rate controls and nine workout programs. You can also adjust the level of resistance directly from the control panel.
Shipping And Assembly
This elliptical is heavy. It has a shipping weight of over 200 pounds and more than 180 when unpacked. The delivery guy could not bring it into the house (to be honest, he was quite skinny), and I had to ask friends to come and help me move it.
The Schwinn 430 comes with a manual that provides clear instructions through visual illustrations of the assembling process. It also comes with the proper tools required to assembling it. I’m not the most gifted handyman out there but I thought the machine was easy to put together and it took me 45 minutes to assembly it.
Pros
- Plenty of workout programs to choose from
- Articulated footplates
- Wide range of exercise and level of customization
- Good stride length (20 inches)
- Great foot traction
- Mobile handlebar
- Awesome ergonomics and user-experience
- High-quality finish and materials
- Comfortable
- High-quality sound system
- Rather quiet
- Best value for your money elliptical on the market
Cons
- The incline level can only be changed manually
- Heavy and hard to move around
- Isn’t Bluetooth-friendly
Other Useful Training Articles
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Schwinn elliptical good?
In my opinion, they are the best brand for home use ellipticals. They are sturdy-built, easy to assemble, and have more than enough options to chose from. Whether you’re just starting out, or are a seasoned athlete, they have the right elliptical for you.
What is the difference between Schwinn 430 and 470?
Other than being more expensive, the 470 has 7 more fitness programs, 5 more resistance levels, and has a mixed-reality training app called RunSocial.
How much should I pay for an elliptical?
It all depends on what exactly you’re looking for in an elliptical, what features do you consider to be mandatory to your workout sessions. I personally bought this Schwinn 430 for $699. The price is more than fair, considering the many good qualities this elliptical has, and the customer service provided by Schwinn.
The Verdict
When it’s all said and done, this elliptical is pretty awesome, especially at this price-point. Outstanding features, a high-quality sound system, and a focus clearly put on performance seeking. Its rather small frame can easily fit in your room, it is quite fairly priced and I would recommend this machine to anyone considering purchasing an elliptical for their home.
