| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Stride | Programs | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Schwinn 430 MY16 Check Discounted Price | L:71.1" W:28.2" H:63.2" | 300 lbs | 20" | 22 | Frame: 10 years, Parts: 2 years, Electronics: 1 year, Labor: 90 days |
The Schwinn 430 MY16, the one released in 2016, is not far different from the older 430 model. Basically, the only difference between the two is the console. The control unit of the MY16 model has a slightly different design than the model made in 2013. But the pretty much offer the same fitness applications.
Technical Details and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 70.1L x 28.2W x 63.2H inches (178L x 71.5W x 160.5H cm)
- Assembled weight: 168.7 lbs (76.5 kg)
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs (136 kg)
- Stride: 20 inches (51 cm)
- Incline: Manual, 6 positions, up to 10° incline
- Footplates: Articulating, with cushioning
- Handlebars: Both mobile and fixed (with pulse sensors)
- Resistance system: Eddy current, 20 levels
- Console: 22 workout programs, USB charging port, Schwinn Connect & MyFitnessPal compatible
- Amenities: Bottle holder, media tray, sound system, cooling fan
- Warranty: Frame 10 years, Mechanical 2 years, Electronics 1 year, Labor 90 days.
Frame and parts
This Schwinn elliptical trainer features a frame made of two main pieces, which connect at the middle. The front part is the largest, as it integrates the drive and resistance systems, while the rear part is basically given by the rail bars of the machine. Most of its sustaining
frame is made of steel tubing, the only PVC parts are the covers of the drive system, the pedals, and the console. All steel parts in the machine’s construction are coated with corrosion and scratch resistant paint.
The frame rests on 3 bases. The rear and mid bases are equipped with adjustable, rubberized stabilizers, while the front base features rotating caps, which serve as transport wheels for the machine. This elliptical is not exactly light; it weighs approx 168 lbs (76 kg) when fully assembled. However, given the front wheels, it’s easy to transport. By leaning it on its front wheels, you will basically handle less than half of its weight.
The Schwinn 430 MY16 is fairly large. It may not be the best choice for a fitness machine if storage and usage space are an issue. It takes approx. 70″L x 28″W (178 x 71 cm) of floor space, also requiring at least one foot of clearance on each side and one foot of clearance at the rear, for safe operation.
The machine is equipped with a set of large, articulating pedals. This means they’re designed to absorb some of the stress on the angles, slightly adjusting position with each side. This is a plus for users with certain joint disabilities or users who require recovery training. Also, they have a ribbed finish, for maximum adherence to your footwear. The bars to which the pedals are attached are steel-made as well. They’re actually rated for a maximum weight capacity of 300 lbs (136 kg).
This elliptical trainer has two sets of handlebars, mobile and fixed. They both feature rubberized grips for maximum comfort, and a multi-grip design, in order to support several workout postures. The fixed bars also integrate stainless steel pulse sensors, so that the control unit can monitor your heart rate.
One last aspect to mention here regards the two accessory holders. The first one is placed between the fixed handlebars and offers the possibility to store a water bottle in it. The second one is molded into the protective case of the machine’s drive system, and you can use it to keep your TV remote, phone, or other small accessories.
Incline, stride and step-up height
To begin with, the Schwinn 430 MY16 elliptical trainer features a manual incline system. The rails on which the pedal bars glide are connected at the front and can be locked to the front part of the frame in 6 positions. Differently put, the machine offers 6 incline positions, with a maximum incline of approx. 10°.
Evidently, since the incline system is manual, you have to pause your workout in order to adjust the ramp. But still, having the possibility to select from 6 levels of incline, can put a lot of diversity into your workouts.
The elliptical’s stride is non-adjustable, though. It has a mid-range stride length of 20″ (51 cm). This means it can accommodate users comfortably up to 6’3″ (190 cm). Of course, taller users should also use this machine, but stride may feel a bit too short for them.
At 0% incline, the lowest pedal stands at approx 12″ (31 cm) above floor level, while the highest pedal raises up to approx. 14″ (36 cm). By adding incline, you will get an elevation of a few extra inches. Therefore, in order to avoid any ceiling height issues, make sure that the ceiling in the room where you will be using this machine, is at least 21 – 22″ (53 – 56 cm) higher than your own height.
Drive and resistance
The Schwinn 430 MY16 features a belt drive system, powered by a heavy-duty v-belt. It doesn’t have an extremely heavy flywheel, but it’s perimeter weighted, which means it provides a consistent momentum, rendering the stride extremely smooth and stable. 
The pedal bars are equipped with large wheels, which integrate stainless steel, sealed ball bearings for smooth operation and a long lifespan. The joints of the arms also incorporate similar ball bearings.
In terms of resistance, this machine features an eddy current system. In other words, it requires being connected to a 120V circuit. It does come with the required 9VDC 1500mA AC adapter. The adapter plugs into the machine near the front base. The resistance can only be adjusted from the machine’s control unit. Resistance can be adjusted as you pedal, from the keys on the console. Or, if you choose to exercise by using one of the onboard programs, resistance will be adjusted automatically, depending on the current segment of the workout.
There is no contact between the resistance elements. Thus, not only that the pedaling motion is extremely quiet, almost silent, the wear and tear of the resistance elements is minimal.
This Schwinn elliptical machine offers 20 levels of resistance. The lowest resistance levels promote light workouts, perfect for warmups or recovery training. Conversely, the top resistance settings offer the possibility to undertake workouts for strength development, or high-intensity cardio workouts.
Control unit
The console of the MY16 Schwinn elliptical offers a consistent array of applications. To begin with, it has 22 workout programs to choose from, 9 profile-based, 8 for heart rate, 2 fitness tests, 2 custom, and of course, the quick start program (or manual mode). The 
profile-based programs are pre-set, ready-made programs, each one focusing on various muscles. The heart rate programs are actually divided into two categories, 4 four advanced users, and 4 for beginners. The 2 custom programs, allow you to create your own workout, save it and re-use it as many times as you want. The unit also has 2 user profiles, so you can save 2 workout settings to quickly swap between them, this also being a great feature if two people use the machine. The console also offers goal tracking functions for time, calories and distance.
The control unit is not Bluetooth enabled and cannot read pulse via an HR chest strap. Also, you cannot sync it directly with your mobile device or laptop for workout data transfer. However, it does have USB port which allows you to save your workout data on a USB stick, in order to transfer it to your Schwinn Connect or MyFitnessPal account. Using one of these online apps, you can keep a better track on your progress. You can also use the USB port to charge your device while exercising and using your tablet or phone.
The console is easy to operate. It offers direct keys for 10 resistance settings (1,3,5,7,9,12,14,16,18,20), for quick adjustment. However, resistance can also be adjusted from the arrow keys, from 1-20. There are also keys on the console for Quick Start, Pause/End program, Goal Tracking, and Programs. The top display shows your goal progression, the grid of the current workout program and the user data. The lower, smaller display keeps track of speed, time, distance, RPM, heart rate, calories, also indicating the selected resistance level.
In terms of amenities, the console integrates three: sound system, cooling fan and tablet holder. The sound system consists of two acoustic chambered speakers, which can render sound of excellent quality, considerably superior to the speakers of a tablet or phone. The cooling fan offers three speeds; it’s placed at the lower part of the console, between the speakers. It’s not extremely powerful, but still, it does offer some cooling. Finally, the tablet or media holder is placed right under the wide display, being large enough to accommodate basically any tablet.
Assembly and Maintenance
The assembly process of this elliptical trainer is not complicated but may take up to two hours. It’s also recommended to be assembled by two people. The elements of the drive system and resistance system come pre-assembled. Thus, assembly requires to connect the two main frame pieces together, connect the front base tube, the console mast, the pedals and arms, and the console. All tools required for assembly are included. Also, the supplied manual provides pretty clear assembly instructions.
For maintenance, the most important aspect is keeping the rails free of any debris as this can lead to damage either to the rails or to the gliding wheels. You should also grease the rails from time to time, and maybe the joints of the arms and pedals, in case it may begin to squeak. Other than this, just make sure you don’t spill any liquids on the console and the flywheel case.
The Pros
- Sturdy construction, similar to commercial machines;
- Adjustable levelers;
- Articulating pedals, for minimum impact on your joints;
- Perimeter weighted flywheel for a consistent momentum and smooth pedaling;
- Quiet operation, ideal for apartment use;
- 20 levels of eddy current resistance;
- 22 workout programs;
- 6 levels of incline which can considerably diversify your workouts;
- Goal tracking functions for time, distance and calories;
- DualTrack monitor system that allows you to see your workout data even if you have a tablet on top of the console;
- Pulse sensors integrated into the fixed handlebars;
- Cooling fan included;
- Sound system included;
- USB port for workout data transfer to Schwinn Connect and MyFitness Pal, which also doubles as a charging port for your device;
- Media tray included;
- Bottle/accessory holders included;
- Little maintenance required;
- Excellent warranty plan.
The Cons
- No backlight for the displays;
- A tablet placed on the media tray will cover the top display.
Summary
The Schwinn 430 MY16 is an elliptical trainer with a sturdy construction, similar to the commercial models. It’s equipped with a motor-assisted magnetic resistance system, offering 20 resistance levels. Its console has 22 workout applications and offers the possibility to transfer your workout data to your MyFitnessPal or Schwinn Connect account. It’s a machine for users of all levels, great for light to intense cardio workouts, interval workouts, recovery training, muscle toning, stamina and strength building, and weight loss. In all, it’s a machine with an excellent price/value ratio.