Recumbent exercise bikes are becoming increasingly popular due in large part to their comfort. Schwinn makes several models to try to cater to a wide customer base, however if you are thinking of buying a Schwinn recumbent bike I would recommend the 213 model and here’s why.
Schwinn currently makes 5 different models of recumbent bikes; the 203, 212, 213, 230, and 231. Each differs in price and features, but each falls into the mid-price category, so they appeal to both beginning and serious riders. But hands down, the 213 (about $450) is the best on offer. Let’s take a closer look and compare it to the other models.
The 213 has been on the market for a while and it shows. The overall look of the machine is a bit boxy with hard edges and a thick frame. But appearances can be deceiving. This bike comes with a 16-level magnetic resistance that can be easily changed while still riding by simply pressing a button on the console. The console isn’t bad at all, it comes with a built-in fan, and it’s easy to read and use. You get lots of feedback like time, interval time, RPM, watts, distance, pulse, speed, calories, resistance and alphanumeric prompts. There’s a wide Bio-Fit Comfort seat with dual-position lumbar support backrest and side bolsters, which is one of the most comfortable seats I’ve seen on a bike at this price.
However, it is the training programs that really impress. There are 23 in total, including 1 Manual, 2 Custom, 3 Heart Rate, 10 Profile, Calorie Goal, BMI Measurement, Paced Time Trial, Recovery Test, Results Mode, Fitness Test, Quick Start. Unless you’re looking for very expensive models, you won’t find a machine with such a comprehensive set of workouts.
So why is the 213 the best of Schwinn’s recumbent bikes?
Well, you could go cheaper. The 212 retails for around $50 less, but for the minimal price drop you have to sacrifice on preset training programs. The choice on offer is limited compared to the 213. Personally, I’d rather pay the extra $50 and have that rich set of 23 workouts.
The cheapest model is the 203 and it retails for around $350. Well, you really lose everything compared to the 213. If the 213 seems dated, the 203 looks positively prehistoric. You don’t get the wide Bio-Fit Comfort seat, the console is pretty basic, there’s also no fan, and the number of workout programs is 17. If you can’t afford $450, then the 203 is a good compromise, but if you can allow, then go for 213.
Schwinn makes two models above the 213. These are the 230 and 231 which retail for $450 and $550 respectively. These are newer models and they show it off, with rounded edges, sleek looks, and easy-to-install design. But don’t be fooled by exterior charms. The 230 costs the same as the 213 and comes with the wide Bio-Fit Comfort seat and a nice console with a built-in fan. So at first glance the 230 seems like the best bet. However, its training programs can’t match the 213 and that’s the most important feature of any bike, so why compromise on this?
The only real competitor to the 213 is the 231 as it also has 23 preset training programs. But I don’t see why this is a better team. It looks prettier but I’d rather save $100; appearance is not important, but what is important is the features you get for your money.
The 213 recumbent bike represents the best value of all the models Schwinn offers.
