| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Resistance | Console | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Schwinn 230 MY20 Check Discounted Price | L:64" W:27.7" H:44" | 300 lbs | Eddy current, 16 lvls | 13 programs, Bluetooth | Frame: 10 years Mechanical: 2 years Electrical: 1 year Labor: 90 days |
The Schwinn 230 MY20 is the 2020 version of the Schwinn 230 recumbent bike. Although it has a similar frame construction, design, ergonomics, and resistance system to the older model, its console lacks a few features. It does not have a sound system, a cooling fan, or USB port, and also lacks the secondary (smaller) LCD display. But on the other hand, it is compatible with apps such as Zwift and Explore the World. For reference, this is the Schwinn exercise bike part number 100932.
Key Features and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 64L x 27.7W x 44H inches (162L x 70W x 112H cm)
- Assembled weight: 81.5 lbs (37 kg)
- Supported weight: 300 lbs (136 kg)
- Seat: Contoured, ventilated, rail adjustment
- Resistance: Motorized magnetic, 16 levels
- Console: 13 programs, goals, Bluetooth, Explore the World App compatible
- Extras: Device holder, bottle holder
- Warranty: Frame 10 years / Mechanical 2 years / Electrical 1 year / Labor 90 days
Frame construction
The Schwinn 230 MY20 recumbent exercise bike is built on a steel frame combining oval and cylindrical
tubes in its construction for improved aesthetics and sturdiness. The bike also integrates several thermoplastic parts. The most notable ones are the covers of the seat base, the drive system covers, the seat bottom, and the backrest. All the steel parts in the frame construction are coated with a corrosion-resistant and abrasion-resistant paint finish. The main color used is black, this being the only color available for this bike.
The fully assembled bike is fairly large. It is approx. 64″ (162 cm) long, and 27.7″ (70 cm) wide. Plus, it is recommended to leave at least two feet of clearance all around it for ease of access. This being said, it may not fit too well in a small room or apartment.
The bike is also pretty heavy. Its net weight is 81.5 lbs (37 kg). Therefore, the transport of the packaged unit should be done by two persons. However, once it is completely assembled, it can easily be moved by only one person as the front base stabilizer integrates two small transport wheels. Also, the rear stabilizer features two adjustable levelers.
The bike has a step-through design. This can be quite a plus for users with certain disabilities. That’s because it allows you to easily pass through the middle of the bike and take position on the seat.
Seat and handlebars
The Schwinn 230 MY20 is equipped with a large ergonomic seat. Its frame is steel-made while its backrest 
and bottom sections are made of durable thermoplastic material. They are contoured and have a ventilated design for improved breathability.
The seat assembly is rated for a maximum user weight capacity of 300 lbs (136 kg) which is not bad for a home-use recumbent bike. Needless to say, it is adjustable; you can easily move it closer or farther from the pedals on its rail. It features a lever-based adjustment system. This means that you can adjust it while seated.
It is important to mention, though, that the backrest does not adjust independently from the seat. It attaches to the seat frame with several screws so you cannot adjust its height. It also does not have a reclining feature.
The bike is equipped with two sets of handlebars. One is attached to the seat frame, the other two the front mast of the bike, under the console. None of the handlebars are adjustable. They both have foam sleeves for an improved grip.
The seat handlebars integrate metallic pulse sensors. By holding on to them, the console can track your heart rate. The front handlebars do not have sensors. Due to the curvature of the front mast, they are placed pretty close to the user. Thus, if you choose to hold on to them while pedaling, you won’t have an awkward position as it is the case for other recumbent exercise bikes.
Drive and resistance
The Schwinn 230 MY20 is equipped with a perimeter-weighted internal flywheel. This type of flywheel
design is meant to improve inertia and provide superior motion stability. Therefore, the bike provides a consistent momentum and a smooth pedaling motion.
The exact weight of the flywheel is not specified, but given the net weight of the bike, it’s probably between 15 lbs and 25 lbs (6.8 – 11.3 kg). It is also bi-directional. This means you can pedal in reverse if you want. Coasting is not possible on this exercise bike, and when pedaling in reverse, you will get the same resistance as when pedaling forward.
The bike is equipped with a belt drive system. It uses a durable poly-v belt resistant to stretching. Since the drivetrain uses a belt, not a chain, you don’t have to worry about its periodic lubrication. Also, another advantage of a belt drive system is that it generates less vibration than a chain.
This Schwinn exercise bike features a fairly durable crankset featuring cylindrical long arms made of solid steel. The pedals are made of durable thermoplastic material and have a metallic center. They have straps so you can secure your feet in place if necessary. They are also weighted; they should always turn face-up if you remove your feet from them.
The Schwinn 230 MY20 recumbent bike is equipped with a motorized magnetic resistance system. This means that it requires an external power source and an adapter so that you can adjust the resistance. A 110V-120V, 60Hz AC input / 1.5A output adapter is included with the bike. Also, since the resistance is motorized, the bike can automatically adjust the pedaling difficulty, depending on the current program settings.
The bike’s resistance system consists of a magnetic brake connected to a servo motor which is connected to the console. As you adjust the resistance from the console, or as the console automatically adjusts the resistance, the motor moves the brake closer or farther from the flywheel which increases or decreases the workout load.
The bike makes available 16 levels of resistance. The first few levels deliver a fairly light pedaling difficulty, great for warm-ups, recovery training, or muscle toning. The highest levels, on the other hand, deliver considerably more pedaling difficulty simulating a hill climb.
Console
As opposed to the console of the older Schwinn 230 model, the MY20 version lacks the smaller 
bottom display. It only has one 5.5-inch LCD display that tracks time, distance, total distance, speed, RPM, calories, and pulse. Speed and distance can be set either to Imperial or Metric units. For the pulse reading function, you can either use the sensors integrated into the seat handgrips, or a Bluetooth HR chest strap.
The Bluetooth connectivity also gives you the possibility to sync the bike with your smartphone or tablet via apps such as Zwift or Explore the World. These apps provide a virtual cycling experience, include various training courses, allow you to compete with friends, track your progress online, and more. However, it is important to mention that they require an active subscription which is not included with the bike.
In case you don’t want to use any of the fitness apps, the console still has you covered. It has 13 built-in workout programs divided into 3 categories. Each program category has its own quick-access key on the console. They are Manual, Interval, and Challenge.
The Manual category includes only one program, the Manual program. This is the standard workout mode. It simply enables the console to record your calories burned, distance, speed, etc. during your workout. It also requires you to make manual adjustments to the resistance.
The Interval program category also included only one program. It has a default duration of 12 minutes, and “sprint” periods of 30 seconds, alternated with “rest” periods of 90 seconds. The duration of the program can be increased in increments of 12 minutes.
The Challenge program category includes 11 programs. From these, 10 are pre-set. They have various segment layouts. Some progressively increase the resistance, then they progressively lower it up to the end, others are great for losing weight, while other simply have a random segment layout. The 11th program is the HRC (Heart Rate Control) program. In order to use this program, you either have to hold on to the integrated pulse sensors or wear an HR chest strap (not included). If the HRC program is in use, the bike will automatically adjust the resistance depending on your BPM. The default BPM setting of the program is 125. So, if your heart rate exceeds this value, the bike will reduce the resistance. Conversely, if your HR falls under this value, the bike will increase the resistance.
As we’ve mentioned above, the bike’s console lacks some of the features present in the consoles of the previous versions. It does not have a USB port, a sound system, or a workout fan. However, it does have the device holder.
Assembly and Maintenance
The main body of the bike comes pre-assembled. You only have to attach the two base bars, the seat, the pedals, the front mast, the handlebars, and the console. This shouldn’t take more than one hour of your time. All the necessary tools for assembly are included. Also, the manual provides very clear, step-by-step assembly instructions and attached illustrations.
For maintenance, you only have to keep the bike clean and wipe the sweat that may fall on the frame at the end of your workout. The internal parts do not require lubrication. It is also recommended to periodically inspect the bike to make sure that all the parts are functioning properly, and all the bolts hold tight in their places.
The Pros
- Sturdy construction – can support users up to 300 lbs;
- Elegant design;
- Large, contoured seat with a ventilated design;
- Two sets of handlebars;
- Grip pulse sensors;
- Weighted pedals, with adjustable straps for extra stability;
- Motorized magnetic resistance – 16 levels;
- Multi-function console with a 5.5″ LCD display;
- 13 workout programs;
- Goal settings for time, distance, and calories;
- Bluetooth connectivity;
- Compatible with various apps such as Zwift, Explore the Worlds, and Schwinn Toolbox;
- Bluetooth HR chest strap or armband compatible;
- Device holder included;
- Basically maintenance-free;
- Easy to assemble;
- All the necessary assembly tools are included;
- Excellent warranty.
The Cons
- Zwift and Explore the Worlds subscriptions are not included with the bike;
- Bluetooth HR chest strap is not included;
- A tablet placed on the device holder may cover the console display.
Summary
The Schwinn 230 MY20 is a recumbent exercise bike made for home use. It has a heavy-duty construction, a 16-level automatic magnetic resistance system, and a console with 13 workout programs. Its console is also Bluetooth enabled and compatible with apps such as Zwift, Explore the World, and Schwinn Toolbox. In all, it’s a great recumbent bike for home use, perfect for light to medium-intensity cardio workouts, interval training, muscle toning, stamina development, and weight loss. It’s also an affordable recumbent bike compared to any commercial-great model and offers excellent value for the price.