When looking at many different consumer guide sites, the Schwinn 418 Elliptical has gotten many reviews that are flattering and complimentary.
Truthfully I am almost always a fan of the mid level Schwinn fitness equipment-especially the exercise bikes. But then there is the Schwinn 418 elliptical trainer-and even if it does look good on the surface-I just don't like it.
Sure, there are a number of things that can be liked at first glance. Eight levels of resistance, twelve workout programs and an LCD display are a good start. Then, adding on a fifteen year warranty on the frame. These things have bee offered as a standard item for the Schwinn 418.
But when you take the time to compare the Schwinn 418 to a similar competitor, such as the Sole E35, then the things that it lacks become glaringly apparent...
Schwinn 418 Elliptical Trainer Specifications
Eight levels of resistance Twelve workout programs include: rolling, valley, fat burn, ramp, random, plateau, intervals, mountain, two heart rate program, one fitness test, and manual mode LCD display shows time, speed, distance, revolutions per minute, resistance level, calories, calories per hour, load, heart rate, and course profile Maximum user weight is 275 pounds Warranty of 15 year frame, 2 years parts, 1 year electronics and 6 months labor
Sure, the price on the Schwinn 418 is lower. And yes, it has some nice goodies, too. But item for item, dollar for dollar, the Sole E35 beats it. With a twenty inch stride length, the Sole has two inches more than the Schwinn. Sixteen resistance levels on the Sole is twice the number than the Schwinn.
Finally, the Sole has a wireless heart monitor strap-something that all ellipticals over a thousand dollars, in my opinion at least, should have-and the Schwinn does not.
Schwinn gives the consumer a fifteen year warranty on the frame-not bad-but Sole gives a lifetime warranty. Five years for parts and labor comes from Sole versus two years on parts, six months on labor for Schwinn's warranty. Hmm.
Try out both machines-that will definitely help you make a final decision. The Sole is better ergonomically, too. The stride motion is more natural, and the foot pedals slope in so that there is less stress on your ankles and knees.
Personally, I would reconsider the decision to buy the Schwinn 418, and spend some extra money-possibly upgrading to the Sole E35 Elliptical instead.
It is definitely worth every cent...
