In my last post I mentioned that I would be posting my recent Indoor Cycle (aka Spin Bike) Q&A email string and so here it is. This conversation was from November of this year.
Subject: Indoor cycle
hello , I stumbled across your site looking for a spin bike. I am rehabbing a broken heel/ sprained ankle and need a good value bike. I was looking at the proform 320 spx ($300) and schwinn ic2 ($500) or proform 315 ic Which would you recommend As I have no idea. Thanks.
My Reply
It looks like you have narrowed down your search to the best spin bikes in low cost range. As for the 3 that you’ve listed here there are a few things to consider.
Proform 320 SPX
The Proform 320spx does not come with a console (the other 2 do) so if you like to keep track of your stats, you would probably want one of the other models. If you don’t really need the stats then the 320 is a very solid bike in its price range and a good selection.
The Proform 315ic is a nice bike and has a nice console but the handlebar shape is different than the other 2 so if you have a preference on hand positions you might want to consider that. I have a view of the 2 handlebar types towards the bottom of this page: http://www.about-bicycles.com/exercise-bike-reviews/proform-320SPX-IndoorCycle.html
Finally the Schwinn IC2 has a nice console and has the pitchfork shaped handlebars (as I sometimes refer to them) but it is a little more expensive than the 2 Proform models (although you can get it online more like $400 instead of $500 see this page for the online sources: http://www.about-bicycles.com/exercise-bike-reviews/schwinn-ic2-indoor-cycle.html Amazon is probably better then Bowflex though since they usually have better (usually free) shipping). I’m not a big fan of the plastic water bottle holder on the handlebars of the IC2 but some people like it right there and easy to grab (another personal preference).
Sorry that I don’t have 1 single best recommendation because it depends on your preferences. You have selected 3 very good low cost models though and I hope I have at least pointed out a few things to help you with your decision…
Good luck on the spin bike and with your recovery
Rob.
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