Ultimate Cycling Face-Off: Schwinn 130 Vs 170 – Who Wins?

SCHWINN 130 vs 170

Are you torn between the Schwinn 130 and the Schwinn 170 for your home gym? You’re not alone in this quest. Choosing the right exercise bike is crucial for an effective home workout, and in this face-off of Schwinn 130 Vs 170, I’ll uncover which bike could be your ideal fitness companion.

Both the Schwinn 130 and the Schwinn 170 are celebrated for their ability to transform home workouts. They offer incredible benefits like aiding in weight loss and cardio. But despite these shared advantages, each model has unique features that set them apart in the Schwinn 130 Vs 170 debate.

So, what differentiates these two popular exercise bikes?

As I delve into the specifics of 130 Vs 170, you’ll gain the insights needed to make a well-informed decision tailored to your fitness needs.

Schwinn 130

Schwinn 130 upright bike

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Schwinn 170

Schwinn 170 upright bike

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Similarities & Differences

Have a quick look at the similarities and differences of Schwinn 130 Vs 170

SimilaritiesDifferences
Belt-driven Drive SystemResistance Levels
Good structural Standpoint Workout programs
Bluetooth ConnectivityNumber of users
Maximum User Weight LimitBuilt-in fan, speaker
Media TrayUSB charging port 
Water Bottle Holder Display Screen
Power Source Heavier Flywheel
Transport Wheels Telemetric heart rate monitoring

Technical Specifications of Schwinn 130 vs 170

Features
Schwinn Upright 130
Schwinn Upright 170
Resistance TypeMagneticMagnetic
Resistance Levels1625
Frame Solid SteelSolid Steel
Drive System Belt-DrivenBelt-Driven
Display5.5’’ LCD2 DualTrack Blue Backlit LCDs
Tech IntegrationBluetoothBluetooth
User Weight Limit300 lbs300 lbs
Memory Capacity (Users)14
Heart Rate Monitor Contact & Telemetry EnabledContact & Telemetry Enabled, Chest strap included
Integrated Fan
Speakers
Media Tray
No. of Programs 1329
Training & Social Apps Explore the world, ZwiftExplore the World App, UA, MyFitnessPal, GoogleFit, Apple Health, and MapMyRun
Built-in USB Port 
Dimensions 41.3″ L x 21.4″ W x 54.5″ H (104.9 x 54.4 x 138.4 cm)41.3″ L x 21.4″ W x 55.6″ H (105 x 54 x 141 cm)
Water Bottle Holder
Weight58.4 Pounds58.4 Pounds
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If you’re looking to add an exercise bike to your home gym, you might be weighing the Schwinn 130 against its more feature-rich counterpart. As someone who’s navigated this choice, I can help break it down for you. The more advanced model boasts 25 resistance levels, four user profiles, 29 workout programs, plus comforts like an adjustable seat, a fan, speakers, and a USB port.

But what does this mean for you in practical terms?

Let’s dive into a clearer comparison. I’ll guide you through the key features of each bike.

By the end, you’ll have a good grasp of which model fits your workout style and goals the best.

Detailed Comparison of Schwinn 130 vs 170

For this in-detail comparison, I’m going to differentiate both bikes among seven different factors. It’ll give you complete exposure to their one-on-one comparisons.

1. Resistance Levels

First of all, for an exercise bike, the range of resistance levels is crucial. These levels define how intense your workout can be. Among various resistance types, magnetic resistance stands out for its smoothness. More levels mean more control over your workout’s intensity. While an 8-level resistance can work, high-quality bikes typically offer over 20 levels for greater flexibility.

This is where the Schwinn 130 and 170 differ significantly. The Schwinn 130 provides 16 resistance levels, but the Schwinn 170 goes further with 25. This extra range in the 170 lets you fine-tune your workouts more precisely, making it a preferable choice for those seeking a more customized exercise experience.

Winner: Schwinn 170

2. Comfort & Convenience

schwinn 130 vs 170

Secondly, for the right exercise bike, it must be both comfortable and easy to use. Let’s compare these aspects in the Schwinn 130 and 170.

  1. Seat Adjustability: Both bikes have comfy, padded seats. However, the Schwinn 170 offers more flexibility with its seat moving not just up and down, but also back and forth. This feature isn’t available on the Schwinn 130.
  2. Handlebar Design: Here, the Schwinn 170 again stands out. It includes forearm rests on the handlebars for added comfort during intense workouts, a feature missing in the Schwinn 130.
  3. Crank System: The Schwinn 170’s 3-piece crank system provides more legroom and smoother pedaling than the 130’s 1-piece system. This makes a noticeable difference in comfort, especially during longer rides.

Winner: Schwinn 170

3. Workout Programs & Connectivity

Another factor to consider is the variety and ease of workout programs. Also, the connectivity features, are vital. It gives the user freedom to shift between workout modes.

  1. Workout Programs: The Schwinn 130 has 13 preset workouts but lacks custom options. The Schwinn 170, however, stands out with a diverse range of 29 programs, including fitness tests, custom programs, and heart rate controls. This variety is a key factor in the Schwinn upright bike 130 vs 170 comparison.
  2. Connectivity: In terms of app compatibility, the Schwinn 130 connects with Explore the World and Zwift, while the Schwinn 170 goes beyond, compatible with a wider array of apps. For instance, apps like Explore the World, UA, MyFitnessPal, GoogleFit, Apple Health, and MapMyRun.

Winner: Schwinn 170

4. User Profile

If sharing your bike with others is a priority, choose the Schwinn 170. It allows four different users to save their settings. It can be your mate, family members, or even siblings!

That’s why it’s ideal for families or shared spaces.

On the other hand, the Schwinn 130 suits just one user. It’s perfect if you’re the only one exercising at home.

Thinking of adding more users later? Go for the Schwinn 170. Its multi-user feature is a major plus.

In short, for multiple users, the S-170 is the better choice. It’s versatile and user-friendly.

Winner: Schwinn 170

5. Display

display comparison of Schwinn 130 vs schwinn 170

Picture this: you’re in the middle of an intense workout on the Schwinn 130. You glance at the 5.5” LCD, struggling to read your stats in a dimly lit room. A little frustrating, right? This is because the Schwinn 130 lacks a backlit display, making it challenging to view your progress without ample lighting.

Now, imagine the same scenario with the Schwinn 170. It boasts not one, but two DualTrack Blue Backlit LCDs. These vibrant screens are a game changer, offering crystal clear visibility even in lower light conditions. No more squinting or pausing your workout to turn on extra lights.

In the battle of screens, the Schwinn 170 takes the trophy. Its dual backlit displays offer convenience and clarity, ensuring you can always keep an eye on your performance, day or night.

Winner: Schwinn 170

6. Tech Integration & Other Features

These two upright bike models have Bluetooth integration. But, while using it, I noticed that the Schwinn 170 is much more compatible than the Schwinn 130. It can fully integrate with fitness apps to track, set, or monitor progress, while Schwinn 130 lacks some compatibility.

Furthermore, the S-170 has many additional features like a built-in USB charging port, a three-speed fan, and built-in speakers. While both can monitor heart rate, Schwinn 170 has an extra telemetric chest strap.

These features make 170 a few leaps and bounds ahead of Schwinn 130. 

Winner: Schwinn 170

7. Price Factor & Warranty

When it comes to price, the advanced features of the Schwinn 170 come at a higher cost. Priced at $449.99, the Schwinn 130 is more budget-friendly compared to the $749.99 Schwinn 170.

Despite the price difference, the Schwinn 170 justifies its higher cost with its range of convenient and advanced features. For those who value these enhancements, the extra investment in the 170 can be well worth it.

Warranty-wise, both models, Schwinn 130 Vs 170, stand on equal ground. They share the same warranty policy:

  • Frame: 10 years
  • Mechanical: 2 years
  • Electrical: 1 year
  • Labor: 90 Days

So, while the S-30 takes the lead in affordability, both bikes tie in warranty terms, offering the same level of long-term protection.

Winner: Schwinn 130

Verdict

In the contest of Schwinn 130 vs 170, Schwinn 170 decisively takes the lead. Its blend of advanced features, enhanced comfort, and superior user experience places it a step ahead. While the Schwinn 130 offers good value, especially for individual users, the 170’s range of capabilities caters to a broader spectrum of fitness needs. Ultimately, the Schwinn 170 stands out as the more versatile and comprehensive choice for those seeking a top-tier home exercise bike.

If you plan to buy high-quality exercise bikes, my advice to you is clear.

You will not regret your decision! 

I hope this detailed comparison was of great help to you.