The Schwinn 170 Upright Bike is a value-for-money exercise bike that has a wide range of programs and resistance levels. It delivers quiet, smooth and vibration-free cycling sessions, even when used at top speed.
Far more comfortable than a lot of stationary bikes, it is suitable for people of any height. This makes it a great buy for families or several people looking for a bike to share. A higher than average user-weight limit makes it ideal for heavier people.
These positives and more have made this stationary bike very popular, with the overwhelming majority of purchasers who have left feedback having nothing but good things to say about it.
In this Schwinn 170 Upright Bike review, we will look at its specs, key features, pros, and cons, plus purchaser opinions.
Schwinn 170 Upright Bike Specs
Dimensions – The Schwinn 170 Upright Bike measures 13″ x 41″ x 22 1/2″
Weight – It weighs 62.8lbs
User Weight – The upper user weight limit for this model is 300 pounds
Schwinn 170 Upright Bike Key Features
- Programs
29 programs include 12 profile, 9 Heart Rate (4 Beginner, 4 Advanced and 1 Custom), 4 Custom User-Defined, 2 Fitness Tests (1 beginner, 1 Advanced), 1 Recovery Test, and 1 Quick Start program.
- Resistance
25 levels of ECB Magnetic Resistance include 10 levels from easy to tough that are available at the push of a button.
- LCD displays
Dual blue backlit LCD screens include one measuring 3″ x 5″, and one measuring 1″ x 5″.
13 readouts include Time (with options for the total workout time, the average time for the user, and the total operational time for the machine) and Distance (in miles or kilometers per hour). Other stats displayed include your Pulse, Speed (in miles or kilometers per hour), RPM, Calories, Resistance Level, Course Profile, Heart Rate, % Complete, Intensity, User Indicator, and Goal Achievement.
- Adjustable seat
The seat of the Schwinn 170 is adjustable, both in height and length. Contoured and well-padded, the seat is extra wide, and it provides supportive and comfortable workouts. It can easily be moved backward or forwards, by turning a knob.
- Handlebars & Forearm rests
The bike’s handlebars can be positioned to suit the exerciser’s height and comfort. Detachable forearm rests provide additional support.
- Pedals
Extra large pedals with toe straps provide comfortable and secure workouts.
- Heart rate monitoring
Grip enabled, the Schwinn 170 has telemetric heart rate monitoring capability.
Schwinn 170 Upright Bike Video Overview
Schwinn 170 Upright Exercise Bike Pros
- High quality
A sturdy, high-quality construction makes for an exercise bike that is very durable.
- Walk-through frame
A walk through frame allows easy access to and exiting from the bike’s seat.
- Transport wheels
Built-in transport wheels enable the Schwinn 170 to be relocated easily when required.
- Accessories
Hook up an MP3 player and listen to your favorite sounds through acoustic chamber speakers that provide strong, clear audio output.
A USB port enables you to charge your cell phone or other mobile devices. It can also be used to upload your workout details and monitor and share your progress online via Schwinn Connect or MyFitnessPal.
The Schwinn 170 has a 3-speed fan to help keep you cooler during workouts. There’s also an extra large cup/bottle holder, and a media tray.
- Easy assembly
Assembling the Schwinn 170 takes most people about an hour. For some, it will take less time, for others a little more. Having a second person to help will shorten the time.
- Warranty
The warranty for this model covers 10 years for the frame, 2 years for mechanics, 1 year for electronics, and 90 days for labor.
Schwinn 170 Upright Exercise Bike Cons
- Chest strap costs extra
Monitoring your heart rate with a chest strap is a more accurate method than using grip monitoring. Unfortunately, this bike does not come with a chest strap. The good news is, they’re not very expensive. If you want to monitor your heart rate this way, order one when you order the bike. Any uncoded Polar Electro or POLAR® compatible chest strap will work.
- Media tray
A conveniently positioned media tray is roomier than average. If, however, you rest a large iPad on it, or something of a similar size, you may not be able to view all of your relayed stats as you work out.
Purchaser Opinions of the Schwinn 170 Exercise Bike
With hundreds of reviews of the Schwinn 170 Upright Exercise Bike posted online to date, it is one very popular fitness aid.
The vast majority of purchasers who have left feedback have nothing but praise for the bike, leaving positive comments on its quality, smooth feel, and the excellent cardio workout it provides. Many reviewers have commented on the bike’s durability, including some who have used it regularly for long workouts and extended periods of time.
Most people who use the Schwinn 170 said they consider the seat to be very comfortable. This includes some owners who regularly use it for up to 90 minutes in the one session. The fan’s strength and ability to cool has also been praised.
The quietness of the bike has repeatedly been mentioned, with purchasers saying they can easily watch their TV or listen to music while cycling. Virtually the only sound you will hear is a beep when you key in your desired program and when you reach your workout goals. For truly silent sessions, turn off the alert system.
People under 5′ tall and up to 6′ 5″ have commented positively on the ease of adjusting the seat.
Complaints about the Schwinn 170 are mainly related to things other than quality and performance. These include the occasional defective or missing part and damaged packaging. Customer service will rectify any such problems should they occur.
Schwinn 170 Upright Bike Summary
Anyone wanting to experience the benefits of using a stationary bike would do well to check out the Schwinn 170.
Reasonably-priced and aesthetically pleasing with its sleek profile and matt black finish, it is stable, sturdy, quiet, durable, and comfortable to use.
Equipped with a range of useful programs and resistance levels, it has everything most people will need to improve or maintain their fitness. Whether you’re short or tall, light or heavy, new to exercising or more experienced, if you’re in the market for an upright stationary bike and you don’t have a lot of money to spend, the Schwinn 170 Upright Bike should be on your short-list.
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