Schwinn Airdyne Bike Compared To A Recumbent

There are advantages to riding a simple heavyweight dual action Schwinn Airdyne bike. But after the bike has kept the same design for about thirty years, it can stand some comparison to popular recumbent bikes. Here are 5 ways to compare the two types of bikes before you choose one over the other. In some cases the best choice becomes clear since each type of bike has distinct disadvantages.

1. Do you value quiet in an exercise bike?

Air dyne bikes make a great deal of noise. It's because the resistance that you oppose as you pedal comes form turning a big fan blade. All that blade noise keeps up quite a racket. In contrast most all recumbent drives use a magnet system to generate resistance. That approach is all but silent. That means with a recumbent one can listen to music, watch movies or anything else that requires quiet. With an Airdyne few noises will top the fan noise.

2. The Schwinn Airdyne Bike and electronic power?

One way to fight boredom that comes with pedaling is available with computer power. Programmable workout routines are possible because of the electronic drives on virtually all recumbent bikes. Vary the programs and you get workouts that vary just as you would riding on the road. That means you can regularly ride different virtual routes and keep workouts fun and interesting. The Air-dyne lacks computer power since it isn't possible to control that big resistance fan except by manually changing the way you pedal.

3. How do you handle breezes and a stationary bike?

Part of the comfort of recumbent bikes is the quiet and calm. Exercise in a calm, quiet environment. In contrast, the faster you pedal a dual action bike, the more frantic the wind and noise become. That's a welcome feel in warm weather, a balmy breeze, but it could be somewhat irritating as well.

4. Isn't it a plus to get something new?

Recumbent bikes generally receive high marks for reliability. However, electronics can fail and the systems are very expensive to repair if that happens. In contrast a Schwinn Airdyne is just abut as bullet-proof as anything that moves. There really are few pieces prone to fail and thus the thing should last for as long as you wan to pedal it, maybe longer. That means you can't use any really good excuses to get another one.

5. Emphasis on legs with either stationary bike?

Recumbent bikes mostly work legs. That means the larger muscles get most of the work. That's a great way to fitness, to work mostly the larger muscles. Also in most cases, most people would agree that's where their "problem" areas are. With the Schwinn, you can just work the lower parts, but it's less convenient. To keep your balance easily, the arms just about have to go along for the ride at least.

A Schwinn Airdyne Bike comes as rugged, heavyweight machine that excels in overall body workouts. It's a simple machine built to last and likely will be the last exercise machine you really need. However, it lags badly the more modern recumbent bikes when it comes to features and comfort. The best bike for you may depend on several factors.