philips949's Full Review: Schwinn Airdyne Evolution Comp Exercise Bike
This review covers the Schwinn Evolution Comp Exercise Bike
Overview:
Schwinn has been the leader in air resistance exercise bikes for decades with the timeless original Airdyne introduced in 1978 and still in production today. The Airdyne Evolution Comp is basically the new generation of the classic Airdyne. The primary difference between the original and the Evolution Comp is a belt to drive the fan and a smaller diameter fan resulting is a slightly quieter design. The computer is simple and easy to use. The Evolution Comp also has arm levers that are connected to the pedal arms that move with the pedals. What really makes the Airdyne Evolution Comp special is the comfort and quality of the ride. This is really what will make a difference is staying with your exercise program. The primary reason to consider the Airdyme Evolution Comp over the original Airdyne is that noise level but both bikes are well made and operate well.
There are many types exercise bikes on the market for specific types of use. I consider the Evolution Comp a general use exercise bike designed for average people. In terms of the style there are 3 primary types of exercise bikes (upright/traditional, recumbent, and spincycle) and each has a specific purpose. Upright’s are the most common style and have been around for many years. The upright style really fits the needs of most users. Recumbent’s (sit in a chair type seat) only work the legs and may have more electronic features. The recumbent style may be the choice for folks with disabilities that require the comfortable seated position. A recumbent style bike typically needs more space as they position the legs in front of the rider so the bike is usually about twice as long as an upright. Spin cycles are typically used for more intense cardio workouts and are popular at healthclubs where you can join spin classes. A spincycle is designed so the rider can assume various positions on the bike including standing on the pedals during an intense session.
Appearance/Construction:
The Airdyne Evolution Comp incredibly sturdy and is very heavy (about 100 pounds). The weight is in the rock solid frame and sturdy components(not a flywheel). This is a very comfortable exercise bike with a wide seat. There are foot pegs to rest your feet on if you just want to work your arms or you can also simply not hold the handles if you do not want to work your arms. It also has screws built in for a water bottle cage.
I would have like Schwinn to design a feature where you can set the handles in a fixed position. This might be useful for beginner or older riders who need something just to hold onto.
It is made with all metal parts except for the drive train enclosure. Schwinn has spared no expense in making this a solidly built stable bike. The bike has 2 wheels mounted close together in the front under the fan to help in moving the bike just like the traditional Airdyne. I find the wheels helpful in moving the bike but I feel Schwinn should instead mount the wheels to the cross bar near the ends as it would be more stable when moving the bike.
I also must compliment Schwinn on keeping the design simple and consistent. The bike shop near my home has any part that may be needed and can order parts should something fail. When I moved the bike fell of the lift-gate of the tuck and it damaged the pedal arm. I went to the bike shop and in 3 days they had my part and I was back in business. Such an event for many exercise bikes would be the kiss of death.
I have seen Schwinn Airdyne bikes that are almost 30 years old and still working. You will be hard pressed to find other exercise bikes still in operation for that long.
Performance:
The first thing you will notice on the Evolution Comp is the comfortable wide seat and smooth action of the pedals and arm levers. The fan moves air around so it does tend to cool the rider slightly. However, the original with the larger fan cools the rider better. The Evolution Comp offers a great overall cardio workout since it includes the arms. There is no tension adjuster on this bike and none is needed since as you pedal harder and the fan provides greater resistance. I can assure you that if you decide to push this bike hard it will get you heart moving however, you can also pedal at a leisurely pace and still burn calories. I am a strong rider and I pushed this bike up to 120rpm (could only sustain for about 60 seconds) and the bike remained smooth and stable. Most riders will be comfortable in the 45-60 rpm range.
I have also seen the Evolution Comp used in rehab centers and some commercial gyms. This is a good testament to the ride quality and durability of the bike. The bike has a low step-over so it is easy to get on and off but, the arm levers need to be in the right spot. The arm levers also move if you hold onto them when getting on or off the bike. This can be a challenge for persons that may be physically challenged. There is a knob that can be screwed down to lock the fan (also prevents arm levers from moving). This is a good idea but since it is in front of the console most people cannot use it to lock the bike for getting on an off. Really, it is only good for transporting the bike. Schwinn could easily redesign this to be more useful.
Electronics:
The Evolution Comp’s computer is quite simple and useful. The LCD display has time, distance, calories, calories per hour, RPM, workload, and optional heart rate readouts. It is easy to use and read. Not a lot of pretty colors/lights here just the information you really need.
Competitor products:
The market has dozens of exercise bikes but really the upright style air bike has only a few major players. There are other systems for resistance such as friction pads or rollers and magnets. The air resistance system has only one drawback and that is noise of the fan. The Evolution Comp is actually not bad and is a lot quieter than the original Airdyne and most competitors. Again the air system really provides a unique resistance feel that is unmatched. Rowing Machines such as the Concept 2 have also adopted air as a resistance system. The Concept 2 is the worlds most popular rower and shares the same reliability reputation as Schwinn.
Reliability/service/support:
I have mentioned the reliability of this bike throughout this review. I cannot say enough about Schwinn’s exercise bikes. They are built like tanks and will last decades with minimal maintenance. Basically keep it out of the rain and clean is all you need to do.
Schwinn bike shops are always very friendly and stand behind the product. Sure, you can buy it on the Internet and save a few $ but why not support your local bike shop who will be there for your service and questions.
Schwinn exercise bikes hold their value on the used market better than any competitor I have seen. 30 year old Airdynes in decent condition still easily get $100 on eBay. You can find used Evolution Comps in good condition and generally they sell for over $300.
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