How to Compare the Schwinn Airdyne & Airdyne Evolution
According to Consumer Reports, treadmills are the most popular piece of home exercise equipment, but stationary bicycles "might help strengthen your legs, hips, and glutes more than running." If you're looking to purchase a stationary exercise bike and have done some research, you may be considering a bike from Schwinn Fitness. Two popular Schwinn Fitness models are the Schwinn Airdyne and the Schwinn Airdyne Evolution Comp. To decide which is the better fit for you, you should consider a number of factors.
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Cost
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The first thing most people consider when looking to purchase an exercise bike is cost. With regards to the Schwinn models, the Airdyne ranges in price from $600 to $650. The Evolution Comp runs between $750 and $900 (prices for both models are as of September 2010). Both bikes are available from a number of online and retail sources.
Features
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Despite the difference in cost, the Airdyne and Evolution Comp are surprisingly similar when it comes to available features. Both bikes offer two workout programs and an LCD display panel, and both calculate time, distance, calories, calories per hour, RPM, workload and heart rate. Both bikes feature an air resistance system and both offer a simultaneous upper-and-lower body workout. While the display panels on the bikes are similar in size, the panel on the Evolution Comp sits about a foot higher than that on the Airdyne--a feature you may want to consider if bending over is difficult for you. The bikes are identical in size and have a maximum user weight of 300 lbs. At 104 lbs., the Evolution Comp is slightly heavier than the 96 lb. Airdyne, though this should not be a factor if you intend to keep your bike in one spot. Finally, the center shaft of the Evolution Comp is longer, and houses a rack for your personal water bottle--a feature not available on the Airdyne.
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Noise
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Many people overlook noise when purchasing an exercise bike, but it is something that should be taken into consideration. This is especially important if your bike will be kept in a busy part of your home, or if you intend to view television or listen to music while exercising. Because of their drive systems, there is a difference in noise output between the Airdyne and the Evolution Comp. The Airdyne has a chain drive, while the Evolution Comp has a chain and belt drive--which provides the rider with a slightly smoother and quieter ride. There is also a significant difference in fan size between the Airdyne and the Evolution Comp: the smaller fan on the Evolution Comp yields a quieter ride.
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