Schwinn 231 Recumbent Exercise Bike

My husband and I are in our mid-50's, each with health issues that prevents us from strenuous exercise. We had recumbent bikes recommended to us, and after extensive website searches, review comparisons, and actual demo rides on other models, I began searching for the Schwinn 230 or 231 BEST DEAL. By far, Amazon.com's pricing on our Schwinn 231 was the best, especially with free shipping! The bike was complicated to assemble, but my best friend had gotten hers from Amazon.com the same day, and said she would come over and assemble ours, too. It took me about 45 minutes to 1 hr. to check off the parts, since the originating shipping company delivered the box to the local delivery company opened entirely up the length of one side! Parts were falling out of the container, and I signed with that disclaimer on the delivery ticket. Miraculously, all were there. It took my friend, with a "little" help from me, approx. 1.5 hrs to assemble the bike. BUT, best thing: we USE it daily. It is SO quiet, we can watch TV, read, talk on the phone or to each other, etc., so it doesn't have to isolate the user from everything in some basement or back corner of a bedroom! The only disappointment I have is the fan - poor quality, very little air circulation. That was one of the main sell

For years, my indoor exercise has been accomplished via Nordic Trac. Unfortunately, lately I have experienced a sore back after using it. That is when I decided on the Schwinn 231 after reading the earlier reviews. I purchased it from Amazon.com and it took roughly a week to be delivered. The box had a few small dents and holes, however, the bike was well protected inside and there was no damage to the bike.

Assembly took roughly two hours, however, it was a relativly easy job. The manual was well organized and clear and the various parts were well marked and coded with good correlation to the assembly manual.

The 231 is runs smoothly and quietly. It exudes quality. The choices of programmed workouts are great and the LCD is easy to read even in a bright room.

When my exercise routine is complete, I have definitely experienced a great workout without the unwanted side effects of back aches and pains, etc.

This is truly a great machine!

There were 2 small parts missing which I will order separately that do not affect the use of this bike . This exercise bike could have a self contained power supply instead of relying on external electrical power.

The bike was easy to assemble but assembly will go faster with a second pair of hands to hold the heavy parts steady while the other person tightens the screws. All parts are clearly marked and secured to cardboard backing that is identified by the part number and corresponding instruction number making easy to match the specific part to the step in the instructions. The bike rides smoothly and quietly and meets all expectations. I can watch TV on normal volume while cycling. The tiny fan mounted on top of the compurter puts out so little air that it is useless as a comfort device. Otherwise, no complaints.

The Schwinn 231 Recumbent Exercise Bike has been a real pleasure to own. Simple, concise assembly instructions. And a very quiet, pleasurable form of exercise that isn't too hard on the body. With a TV to watch, you can't get a more painless form of cardio. And not having to drive to the gym is some very nice icing on the cake!