Schwinn 430 Elliptical Trainer Review

I didn't see many reviews on the 430, much less details regarding the differences between this stripper model and its big brother brethren.So here goes my first real Amazon review:

Why I chose the Schwinn 430
-Price (esp on Amazon w/ mat and shipping)
-Space saving
-ECB resistance
-Forward + Backward
-25 lb flywheel (per manual)
-18" stride

Why I'm happy after buying
-Feels solidly built, like it will last
-Relatively quiet
-Forward + Backward motion
-Bargain price, esp w/ Amazon mat + shipping
-I get a good workout

Why I'm not happy
-Manual subpar.Amazon acknowledges with email M8x25 error, but there are other (unrecognized by Amazon) mistakes.
-Fit is only 99% perfect.Some holes don't line up perfectly, but what can you expect at this price point?
-"Heel rising" during motion despite "articulating foot plate" was a little more than I expected, but not much more than other ellipticals
-I'm only 5'9", but I prefer a 20" stride (found on Sole Ellipticals), probly because I'm use to the gym but 18" is definitely ok
-Display is hard to read.Backlighting (on 418,438) would help.
-The "easiest" setting is a little hard for my wife, probly due to heavy flywheel
-My wife has tripped over the small power cord, so I can understand why battery power on the 418 is a nice option.


Differences between 430, 418, and 438

430
LCD display
AC Power
Grip HR Monitor
Preprogrammed Workouts8
Max User Weight275 lbs.
Warranty: Labor - 90 days


418
adds backlit LCD
adds Battery Power Option to AC
same Grip HR Monitor as 430
increases Preprogrammed Workouts12
same Max User Weight as 430
increases Warranty: Labor - 6 Months; Wear Items - 6 Months


438
adds fan, multi grip handlebar to backlit LCD
deletes Battery Power Option of 418, only AC
adds Chest Strap HR Monitor to Grip Monitor
increases total Preprogrammed Workouts21, 4 user settings
increases Max User Weight - 300 lbs.
same warranty as 418

Due to the price, I would buy the Schwinn 430 again in a heartbeat.Same award winning mechanics as the 418, 438 but a much cheaper price point.However, if you work out a lot at night and want a backlight, or don't want a power cord across the room, I would seriously consider spending the extra $200 for the 418 despite the problematic Amazon reviews.

UPDATE: Like others, I too had developed a small "squeaking noise" problem.However, my squeaking was located where the moving handlebars pivot, close to the flywheel.A quick call to Schwinn (hold time < 1 min) told me that I probably tightened the handlebars too much.I was told to back off by a quarter turn until the squeaking disappeared.Three quarter turns later, my squeaking is gone!Apparently my obsessive compulsiveness in tightening everything down was too aggressive.One month later, and I still love my Schwinn 430, and I was very happy with the customer service too.

Product Description
Ideal for the home gym for fitness enthusiasts of any skill level, the Schwinn 430 Elliptical Trainer provides an effective cardiovascular workout by combining upper and lower body flexibility and coordination into one impact-free motion. Elliptical trainers emulate the natural motion of your foot while supporting your heel throughout the stride, making them much easier on your knees and joints. In addition to feeling more natural while working out, regular use on elliptical trainers will increase heart and lung capacity while improving your health (and burning calories at the same time).

The Schwinn 430 offers eight computer-controlled resistance levels and eight workout programs for workout variety, including six user-profile programs, one manual, and one calorie goal program. Its quick start functions allows you to easily change your resistance level while exercising to challenge yourself to the next level. Three feedback programs--recovery mode, results mode, and body mass index (BMI)--allow you to track the progress of your workout routine. BioGlide motion technology offers a natural-feeling 18-inch stride while the trainer's BioFit design will provide a comfortable feel on the footpads and handlebars. The handlebars also feature grip heart rate monitoring which allows you to track your heart rate while you're exercising.

Additional features of the Schwinn 430 elliptical trainer include Eddy current brake resistance for smooth and quiet stopping, transport wheels to easily move the trainer across the room, and a water bottle holder to keep your hydration source close by. This elliptical trainer has a compact footprint 59 inches long by 26 inches wide by 68 inches tall.

The 430 features eight resistance levels and eight programs for a challenging workout.

Key Features:

• BioGlide motion technology allows for a natural-feeling stride
• BioFit comfort footpads and handlebars
• Grip heart rate on handlebars
• 18-inch stride length
• Eight computer-controlled resistance levels
• Eight workout programs: manual, six profile programs, and calorie goal
• Quick Start function
• Eddy current brake resistance
• Dimensions: 59 inches long by 26 inches wide by 68 inches tall
• Three feedback programs: recovery mode, results mode, BMI
• Transport wheels for easy movement
• Water bottle holder

What's in the Box?
Schwinn 430 Elliptical Trainer, user's manual, warranty information

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