Pros and Cons of the Schwinn 520 Reclining Elliptical
Elliptical bike combos are growing more popular year after year. And one of the bikes that’s getting some attention is the Schwinn 520.
Unlike the Proform Hybrid Trainer, this is not a 2-in-1 exercise machine (where you can use it as both an elliptical trainer OR a recumbent bike).
You can only use it for one thing – reclined elliptical training.
So is it right for you? Here’s a list of the pros and cons to help you decide:
The Basics:
Price: $549 + Free Shipping
Resistance Type: Airdyne
Stride Length: 14 ”
Built-in Workouts: 3
Footprint (L x W): 62″ x 28″
User Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
Warranty: 5 years on the frame, 1 year on parts and electronics, 3 months on wear parts
Pros of the Schwinn 520 Elliptical Bike:
#1 Easy on the Knees
This machine is extremely low impact and easy on the knees. The Airdyne resistance basically means the harder you pedal, the more resistance you get – so you can go at your own pace and listen to your body.
If you’re recovering from a knee injury or knee surgery, this is a great way to get back into your exercise routine.
#2 Oversized, Adjustable Pedals
The pedals are easily adjustable. So the bike easily accommodates users of all heights, which makes this trainer/bike a good option for multiple user families.
#3 Ventilated Seat Back
The ventilated seat back lets air through to your back as you pedal. This can help keep you cool as you pedal.
The bottom seat is also “extra” padded which basically means it’s more comfortable than a cheapie department store bike seat (which often feels like you’re sitting on a rock).
#4 Heart Rate Monitor
You can stay on top of your heart rate with the hand grips.
Granted you have to be grasping these for a while to get a reading, but it’s still a handy feature to have if you want to stay in your target heart rate zone.
Cons of the Schwinn 520 Recumbent Elliptical Trainer
#1 Simple, Non-Backlit Console
Given that the price of this machine usually runs around $600, you would expect a much better console. Unfortunately that’s just not the case here.
It’s not backlit which makes it very hard to read. Plus it’s extremely simple – not a lot of workout feedback or built-in workout programs (3).
#2 No Arm Bars
When something is advertised as an elliptical most people expect it to have moving arm bars so they can tone their arms. you don’t get arm bars with the Schwinn 520.
It might be better if this machine was advertised as an elliptical bike (with emphasis on the bike part) so that people don’t feel mislead.
#3 Short Warranty
The parts warranty on this machine is only 90 days – which doesn’t give you a lot of protection.
#4 Airdyne Resistance
Although people love this type of resistance with the Schwinn Airdyne bike, it can be a bit annoying on this unit.
Why? Because again, people see this as an elliptical trainer (and not so much as a bike). As such, they expect to be able to adjust the resistance either manually or with the push of a button.
Airdyne resistance doesn’t work that way – the harder you pedal, the higher the resistance. There is no manual or button to push. So it’s self-generating in a way.
Bottom Line?
If you’re looking for a machine that is low impact and easy on the joints, you may really like the Schwinn 520. It gives you an elliptical trainer motion – with the comfort of relaxing in a recumbent seat.
(However, if that’s what you’re looking for, you may be better off just going with a really good recumbent bike like the Nordictrack Commercial VR)
The 520 has some real drawbacks however and can be confusing for buyers who aren’t sure exactly what they’re getting. Just know that this is really more of a bike than an elliptical trainer – and be aware of the cons listed above before you buy.
Where to Buy
You can get some pretty decent discounts on the Schwinn 520 Recumbent Elliptical by going here. You can usually get Free Shipping and read user reviews as well.
Click Here for More on the Schwinn 520 Recumbent Elliptical
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You can easily convert the elliptical to the bike and vice versa in 3 easy steps.
Simple Console
