Schwinn Ellipticals Category:

Schwinn 431 Elliptical Trainer

by Mike on June 2, 2010

For an elliptical below $1000, the Schwinn 431 isn’t bad. If you read my other review, you’ll know that my sister bought the cheaper Schwinn 430. This 431 has more features, so it’s slightly more advanced and pricier. My sister is a beginner with ellipticals and she didn’t care for bells and whistles, but sometimes I wonder if she should’ve spent the extra $200 and get this model instead.

Schwinn 431 Elliptical Trainer

Heavier, Sturdier, Quieter
The Schwinn 431 is heavier than its sister model, though the footprint is the same. The weight capacity goes up to 300lbs, which means it’s sturdier for people of a bigger build.

This model is quieter too. After going around everywhere trying all the models of ellipticals, and maybe not making the best of buddies with salespeople because I never bought from them, I find that the heavier models are always quieter than the lighter ones. I bet that if you place this elliptical on a mat or on carpet, all you’ll hear is your own heartbeat when you workout.

Some reviewers are complaining about a developing squeak on the flywheel after some time of use, so I strongly advise that all the moving parts should be lubricated with white grease during assembly.

More Comfortable Pedals
The best thing this model has over the 430 is padded pedals. I think they upgraded it because many reviewers were talking about the hard plastic pedals 430 has that wasn’t too comfortable for the feet.

The other additional features include the backlit LCD (the lack of back lighting was also something complained of by 430 users), 3-speed fan, iPod holder, more programs and a longer warranty on labor.

I’d recommend the Schwinn 431 if you are willing to pay an extra $200 for the improvement over the other model. It would still be under $1000 after all. You’ll get free shipping if you buy at Amazon now, and the price is currently the best at $699. Click here to check it out: Schwinn 431 Elliptical Trainer

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Best Elliptical Trainer Below $1000 – Schwinn 430 Elliptical Trainer

by Mike on May 29, 2010

The Schwinn 430 is a good model to buy if you’re looking for one that is below $1000. Despite the affordable price, it doesn’t compromise too much with quality, and hundreds of online reviews agree that this is so.

I didn’t have this model myself; my sister bought it after my endless remarks on how an elliptical can help her achieve her target weight that she is so concerned about. The day it arrived at her doorstep, she called me because it was too heavy for her to lug inside. Weighing nearly 200lbs, I could already see that it should be sturdy enough for her.

Schwinn 430 Elliptical Trainer

Reasonably Sturdy and Quiet
After some time taken to assemble it (the manual seemed all right, but mostly my sister was hogging it, I just took a few glances), she tried it out immediately. It was sturdy indeed. The weight capacity goes up to 275lbs, and both of us didn’t experience any shaking or moving when using it.

The Schwinn 430 works quietly. I had noticed that there were a few reviews talking about a squeaking sound but someone offered a tip on how to get rid of it. If you have a squeaking sound, it means your handlebars are tightened too much. Just loosen the bolt by a quarter turn each time until the squeaking goes away.

If that didn’t work, some grease will do the trick. Sometimes it’s much easier to search reviews for solutions than call customer service. :)

Good for the Price
What I didn’t like about this model is the hard plastic pedals. But what can you expect for such a bargain price. I advised my sister to wear cross training shoes to protect her feet and stay comfortable whenever she workouts, and she’s all right with that.

The display LCD is not back lit too, so if you’re going to workout in the dark or in dim light, it’ll be difficult to read. Again, a small problem for the price.

My sister likes the Schwinn 430 and it’s helping her lose the pounds she didn’t want. If you think it’s good for you too, Amazon is giving the best price at $579 with free shipping, and you can read what other people think about it here too: Schwinn 430 Elliptical Trainer

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