Schwinn 870 Treadmill

Unit	Size	Supported weight	Motor	Apps	Warranty
Schwinn 870 Check Discounted Price	L:77.2" W:35.2" H:57.6"	300 lbs	3.0 CHP, 0-12 MPH	26	Motor: 10 years Frame: 10 years Mechanical: 2 years Electrical: 2 years Labor: 1 year

There are only three main aspects that put the 870 treadmill model from Schwinn, out of the commercial grade class of treadmills: one is its maximum user weight capacity which unfortunately is only 300 lbs., second is its lack of WiFi connectivity, and 3rd, its maximum speed of 12 MPH. But other than these, the machine has a lot to offer, being also one of the highest quality treadmills that you can find under $1,000. Along with a wide array of features and functions, it’s a machine with an extremely sturdy construction, made for users of all levels.

Now, in case you’ve already set your eyes on this spectacular machine, we’re pretty sure you would want to know as much as possible about it. Therefore, in this post we aim to provide extensive details regarding each one of its features. Also, there are several differences between the Schwinn 870 treadmill and the 830 model, and we’ll point them out here as well.So, let’s see what this baby can do for you.

Technical Details and Specifications

• Assembled dimensions: 77.2L x 35.2W x 57.6H inches (196L x 89.4W x 146.3H cm)
• Tread belt dimensions: 60L x 20W inches (152.4L x 50.8W cm)
• Product weight: 215 lbs (98 kg)
• Supported weight: 300 lbs (136 kg)
• Deck cushioning: Softrak, 6-cell
• Motor: 3.0 CHP
• Speed levels: 0-12 MPH
• Incline: Automatic, 0-15%
• Training programs: 26
• Amenities: Chest strap, sound system, cooling fan, USB port, 2x bottle holder,
• Warranty: Frame 10 years / Motor 10 years / Mechanical 2 years / Electrical 2 years / Labor 1 year

Frame and deck construction

The assembled machine is pretty heavy, with a weight of 215 lbs, which points out quite a few other aspects about it. First of all, you’ll need at least two people to transport it to the location where it’s going to be in use. Second of all, it’s a good idea to place it on a mat, to avoid any damage to your carpet or floor. Even though the metallic base of the frame that rests on the floor has adjustable stabilizers, with rubber caps, it may still leave marks.

Evidently, since the machine is this heavy, its frame is made of steel, the metallic parts being covered in anti-corrosive coating. The rear of the metallic base integrates caster wheels, to facilitate the moving of the folded machine. However, rear feet of the running deck are also equipped with wheels. Thus, despite its weight, it shouldn’t be too difficult to move the machine once it’s fully assembled.

As mentioned, this Schwinn treadmill features a folding design. The deck folds up, and the folding mechanism involves a hydraulic lift, which assists you with the unfolding. The fully assembled machine has a rather large footprint. It takes 77.2″L x 35.2″W (196 x 89.4 cm) of floor space. In folded position, its footprint is reduced to 31″L x 35″W (79 x 89.4 cm) but its overall depth is a bit longer, as the deck doesn’t fold all the way vertically, leaving a bit of overhang.

When it comes to the running deck construction, there are several aspects to be mentioned. Maybe the most important is the running surface of the machine. The tread belt’s dimensions are 60″L x 20″W (152.4 x 50.8 cm), which means it supplies enough running surface for users up to 6’6″ – 6’7″ (198 – 201 cm), depending on the length of their inseam. The running belt on this machine is 5″ (13 cm) longer than the belt on the Schwinn 830. It’s also a 2-ply belt, 2 mm thick, as opposed to the one used by the 830 model, which is only 1-ply.

The running deck incorporates large, 2.5″ crowned rollers, with sealed bearings, which are basically made to last a lifetime. These rollers supply an excellent grip onto the belt. The deck also features a cushioning system consisting of 6 suspension cells, meant to absorb up to 30% of the running impact. Differently put, a run on this treadmill offers a gentler touch in comparison to a run on asphalt or concrete.

Last but not least, the deck is a really solid element within the construction of this machine. It’s actually built to support users up to 300 lbs (136 kg), and of course, it can support running workouts from users of this caliber, not just walking or jogging. It’s definitely a treadmill made for running.

Incline

The Schwinn 870 treadmill features a motorized incline system. This means that ramp of the deck uses a small motor which lifts / lowers it. Also, it is adjusted exclusively from the console. It offers an incline range between 0% and 15%, slightly more than the 830 model which only offers up to 12% incline.

Incline can be adjusted in increments of 1% via the Up/Down arrow keys, but the console also offers key for quick adjustments for the 0,2,5,8,10,13 and 15 levels. Evidently, some of the pre-set programs also involve incline. Therefore, if you’re going to use one of these preset programs, it will adjust incline automatically.

At 0% incline, the running surface stands approx. 12″ (30.4 cm) above the floor level. At maximum incline, the highest point of the deck reaches approx. 17.2″ (43.6 cm). Therefore, in order to make sure that the room where the treadmill will be used has the right ceiling height for you, add at least 20″ (51 cm) to your own height.

Motor

This Schwinn treadmill features a slightly more powerful motor than the motor on the 830 model. It uses a 3.0 CHP industrial quality motor. Now, given the fact that it’s a 3.0 continuous duty motor, it means that it can withstand prolonged running sessions, even at full speed, without overheating.

This motor can supply speeds up to 12 MPH. It starts at 0.5 MPH, and above that speed can be adjusted in increments of 0.1 MPH. Needless to say, speed is controlled from the machine’s console. Just as for the incline, there are keys for gradual or quick speed adjustment. The quick keys will set up the machine for 2,4,5,6,8,10,12 MPH. The passing from one speed setting to another takes quite a few seconds, and you actually have the time to adjust your pace.

The motor itself is pretty quiet. However, just as for any treadmill, running on this Schwinn model will generate some noise, especially due to your own cadence. The cadence sound generated by a running workout shouldn’t cover a moderate volume on your TV, though.

One last aspect to mention here regards the machine’s required power supply. The machine must be connected to a nominal 120V AC, 15 A power source. It comes with a standard U.S. plug. The cable connects to the machine at the front, and you’ll also find a power switch near the cable connection point. Also, regarding the power consumption of this machine you shouldn’t worry much. Even if it will be in use for at least a few hours a day, it shouldn’t add more than $10-$15 to the electricity bill.

Console

The Schwinn 870 treadmill features quite an inclusive console. Apart from the fitness functions, it integrates several amenities, including media tray, sound system, cooling fan, and two compartments for small accessories, such as phone, remote control, earplugs or water bottle.

The media tray is situated above the console displays, and it’s pretty wide, being able to accommodate just about any tablet. The sound system consists of two acoustic chambered speakers, and it is compatible with most tablets, smartphones or MP3 players. Evidently, it works for iOS and Android devices. The sound rendered by it is not bad at all, much better than the sound produced by any tablet or phone speakers. Your device connects to the console via a standard cable with a 3.5 jack. Sound is adjusted from your device, as there are no volume keys on the console of the treadmill. The cooling fan is situated under the console display. It’s a fan with 3 speed settings, not the most powerful, but still, it can offer enough cooling during a more intense workout.

When it comes to the fitness functions offered by the console unit, the first to mention is its workout data export function. It features a USB port which you can use to copy your data on a USB flash drive, and export it on MyFitnessPal or SchwinnConnect, for further analysis, or to compare it to other users’. The USB port doubles as a charging port for your phone or tablet.

The displays of the console cover the full range of metrics that any runner would like to know during their workout. These include time, distance, calories, heart rate, pace, and of course, speed and incline. Speed can be set to be show in MPH or km/h, while distance in miles or km. There are other metrics that the console covers, such as the Last Workout, Last 7 Days, Last 30 Days, or your Calorie Record and Longest Workout. There is a function for setting up goals for calories, distance or time. And of course, there’s a trail function which indicates distance in 1/4 miles (or 400 m) laps, counting how many laps you have completed.

There are 26 preset workout programs on the console, programs that will automatically control incline and speed. These programs include 1 Manual, 3 Quick Goal, 6 Train, 5 Weight Loss, 4 Heart Health, 3 Interval and 4 Custom. The 4 Custom workouts give you the possibility to craft your segment-based, workout programs, according to your training requirements, programs that you can save and re-use any time you want.

One last aspect to mention regards the heart rate monitoring. The front handlebars of the treadmill incorporate stainless steel pulse sensors and you can track your pulse by holding on to them. However, the console is telemetry enabled, and can track pulse via a chest strap transmitter, accessory which is included.

Assembly and Maintenance

The machine’s assembly is not complicated, however it may be problematic. It is heavy, it will require at least two people, and it’s best to be assembled directly on the place where the machine will be in use, also preferably on a mat. The running deck is completely assembled, with motors, deck, and belt already in place, and attached to the front part of the metallic frame. You will have to add the console masts, assemble the console, connect the wires and calibrate it. The supplied copy of the user’s manual will guide you step by step through the task, which shouldn’t take more than one hour, one hour and a half. Tools required for assembly are supplied.

Maintenance require the lubrication of the running belt every 3 months, or 25 hours of use (whichever comes first). Silicone-based lubricant can be used for this task. Other than this, you basically have to keep the running belt clean, and vacuum under the deck from time to time, especially if you have pets.

The Pros

• Sturdy overall construction;
• Solid deck, being able to support users up to 300 lbs, even for running sessions;
• Folding design;
• Deck cushioning, which absorbs up to 30% of the workout impact on your joints;
• Automatic incline, 0% – 15%;
• 3.0 CHP motor, for prolonged workouts;
• Speed control in increments of 0.1 MPH, offering the possibility to find the pace that fits perfectly to you;
• 26 built-in training programs;
• USB data port, which doubles as a device charging port;
• Various amenities, such as sound system, tablet tray, 3-speed fan, bottle/accessory holders;
• Pulse sensors and telemetry enabled console;
• Heart rate chest strap transmitter included;
• Smooth operation;
• Fairly easy to assemble;
• Little maintenance required;
• Consistent warranty plan.

The Cons

• Heavy and bulky machine, not exactly for small spaces;
• Cooling fan isn’t too powerful.

Summary

The Schwin 870 treadmill is definitely a machine made for runners, who want to cover at least a couple of miles per day. It may not be the best choice for professional runners, as it doesn’t offer more than 12 MPH, and professional training may require higher speeds. But on the other hand, it’s a very well constructed machine, with a durable deck and a powerful motor. It can supply all kinds of workouts, being an excellent choice for cardio, strength, and stamina training. And of course, it’s perfect for losing weight, actually offering dedicate programs for this. On top of all these, it’s a machine with an excellent price / quality ratio, one of the best, if not the best within this range of features and price.