The Schwinn 231 Recumbent Bike: A Best-Seller Among Under $1000 Recliners

The Schwinn 231 recumbent bike is rated as the Number One budget recumbent exercise bike priced under $1000 by a leading consumer magazine. In addition to its many extra features that pack even more value into this affordable design, it also offers an easy step-in design allowing users of any ability to mount the bike.

The Bike

On its adjustable 3-position, blue backlit LCD display, the Schwinn 231 recumbent bike has an attractive BioConnect® Feedback System. You get easy-to-read workout stats including Time, Interval Time, Pulse, Calories, RPM, Distance, Watts, and more. It has 10 Preset and 10 Profile workout courses including: manual, 2 User-defined, 3 Heart Rate, Time Trial w/pacer, Fitness Test, Calorie Goal, BMI Measurement, and Recovery Test.

The full list of features on the Schwinn 231 recumbent exercise bike is:

• Eddy Current Brake System
• Computer Controlled Drive System
• 16 Resistance Levels
• 23 Programs
• Handlebars have integrated heart rate grips
• Flywheel 20 lbs.
• Max user weight – 300 lbs
• Extra-wide seat with dual-position lumbar support
• Cooling fan, storage area behind the seat
• Warranty: 10 years frame, 1 year mechanical/electrical, 6 months wear items, 90 days labor
• Dimensions/Weight: 67"L x
  25"W x 52"H / 106 lbs.

The Buzz

UPDATE:  The 231 exercise bike is no longer available. Check out the similar 230 recumbent here.

Not only does the Schwinn 231 exercise bike come with a heavy 20-lb steel flywheel and the type of quality engineering you’ve come to expect from Schwinn, pro trainers are quick to point out the comfort and support it offers the rider.

Its BioFit® Comfort System is showcased by the anatomically designed and well-padded recumbent seat, which features micro adjustable lumbar support positioning.

Exercise bike reviews on this stunning design are some of the most positive comments you will ever find on any piece of fitness equipment. Owners of the Schwinn 231 are pleased by the comfortable ergonomics of this recumbent exercise bike as well as the extras that make this model so special.

Owner reviews mention things like the heart rate sensors located on the handlebars within easy reach, the lower BioFit® pedal height that includes a 1mm inclination, the walk-through design for easy mounting, the adjustable viewing console, and the solid feel of the frame and frame levelers.

The biggest drawback of the Schwinn 231 Recumbent is actually a non-issue: the fan design is so poorly executed as to be nearly worthless, but that’s a small matter since most folks like to set up a larger floor fan to blow on them when using an exercise bike, elliptical or treadmill.

Our Take

The Schwinn 231 is a steal at $649. It is a well-built recumbent bike that is quiet in operation and offers a wonderful ride.

This is a quality exercise bike for any owner, but especially will be appreciated by people who are rehabbing an injury and need a cycle that offers proper back support as well as one that doesn’t place stress on the knees and hips.

The Schwinn 231 recumbent bike rates as a Good Buy.

Show me other Schwinn Exercise Bikes