Recumbent bikes were created to fill the gap created by the high impact trainer bikes like the air bikes or spin bikes. In regards to these two brands from the same manufacturer, which is more engaging?
When it comes to home fitness training, a personal gym could help you reach your goals faster especially if it contains some interactive workout routines in it.
Hi, my name is Gregory and I love to cycle both indoors and outdoors. I am a beauty technician and my job involve standing or sitting for long hours at a time while I cater to my clients needs.
When I close up shop, I can’t wait to run home and get on my Nautilus R618 to work up a little sweat and give my body, muscles and joints a good stretch.
I just got it about 3 months ago and I still cannot get enough of it. Before I settled on this bike, however, I was really going to buy the Schwinn 270.
Because these two bikes are very similar, you may wonder why I choose Nautilus over Schwinn. Here are some of the reasons why.
What are the key differences between Schwinn 270 and Nautilus R618?
 |
Schwinn 270 |
Nautilus R618 |
Type |
Recumbent |
Recumbent |
Resistance |
Magnetic |
Magnetic |
Resistance levels |
25 levels |
25 levels |
Screen |
Backlit LCD |
Backlit LCD |
Workouts |
29 programs |
29 programs |
Training App |
Schwinn Trainer App |
My Fitness Pal |
Price |
Schwinn 270 vs Nautilus R618 – How they compare
Design
One obvious thing the two have in common is that both bikes are built on one-piece stainless-steel frame. The dimensions vary slightly with Schwinn measuring 50x27x64-inches and the Nautilus measures 50x28x65-inches.
Their weight also differs in build and in capacity handled. The Schwinn 270 is 86-pounds heavy while the R618 is 92-pounds. Regardless, both bikes can support up to 300 pounds in weight.
They both feature transport wheels for easier mobility of the bike when it needs to be moved around.
Assembly of the Schwinn 270 bike is possibly done by one man because the main base unit come already preassembled. To help you out, a manual with instructions comes with the bike.
Attaching the stabilizers located in the front and rear of the bike might require some light lifting and screwing in of about four bolts to keep the bike sturdier.
The same characteristics apply to the Nautilus bike assembly. The only issue I faced was with putting up the seat.
These two bikes feature a similar build with only a 10-pound difference between them.
Features
In terms of features the two bikes are quite similar. Both of them offer 25 levels of resistance and 29 preset programs to keep the user engaged and well challenged in training. They allow for gradual increasing to the resistance levels to help you gauge your best workout.
Flywheel and the belt drive system are both perimeter weighted which is a design used to create smooth pedaling motion regardless of the chosen level of resistance. The vital parts of both bikes are well covered and enclosed to protect them from too much exposure.
The resistance generated by the belt is made to challenge you as you push on the pedals and this will be noticeably stronger when the pedal circles up. This strong resistance creates a quiet and discreet workout.
Pedals on Nautilus bike have diagonally angled straps that are designed so to minimize the possibility of pinching. On the Schwinn 270, pedals feature a 3-piece crank that enriches a rider’s experience.
To add to that, the pedals are oversized and have adjustable straps.
No maintenance is needed for the belt-drive systems of both Nautilus R618 and Schwinn 270.
Extras
LCD monitors are featured in both bikes and they can display equal and similar type of information to you. Your training metrics, your heart rate and the training timer are all going to be visible while you train.
You may use a USB port to transfer data from the R618 bike’s console to an external device. In heart rate tracking, the option of contact tracking via built-in sensors or telemetric tracking via a chest strap is possible for both.
Schwinn bike is not Bluetooth ready but it features two screen displays one on an upper level and the other on a lower level. This is convenient for when one is using the top part of the console to place a magazine or book they can still view the lower display while still training.
The training programs offered in both feature 12 preset options, 9 heart rate exercises and 2 are fitness tests for classified trainees. Even in user profiles, these two bikes offer the same number, that is four.
Benefits trickling down to the built-in speakers and fan with three-speed modes are all the same for both these bike models. The padded seats and backrests too have been vented for both bikes.
Schwinn 270 is not Bluetooth enabled while the Nautilus R618 allows you to pair with other tracking apps and smart devices.
Schwinn 270 vs Nautilus R618 – A Comparison Overview
Schwinn 270 – Overview
[amazon box=”B00OYMHLXE” template=”horizontal” ]Features a single frame build with two levers and a huge mid-frame for stability and support. Pedals are connected to a three-piece crank which is more durable.
The bike holds a console with 29 workout programs in it, a cooling fan and a backlit LCD monitor that displays thirteen different statistics. Through the USB port, you can share these statistics to the Schwinn website or to your friends and family.
Seats are padded with some ventilation and you may use a wireless heart strap to monitor your rate. This bike allows you to share the full experience with four other people in terms of profile set up.
While the console is backlit, the brightness is not adjustable which may prove a bit disturbing to some.
Pros
- 29 training programs in an integrated console
- Up to four user profiles- great for families
- Compatible with wireless heart rate strap
Cons
- Screen brightness is not adjustable
- Needs USB connection to upload training data
 Nautilus R618 – Overview
[amazon box=”B0764K1L9G” template=”horizontal” ]This bike features a backlit LCD display and 29 different workout programs. 12 of these programs have been profiled, 9 are there to test out your heart rate and 2 fitness tests; one for beginners and another for expert trainers.
The LCD monitor displays 13 different metrics on your training and it tilts for optimum viewing. A reading rack is built into the frame to help you keep in touch with other subjects of interest while you work out.
A USB drive can be connected to the bike to transfer your metrics to another device. Speakers are integrated and are compatible with iPods, smartphones or MP3 players. Using Polar heart straps, you can monitor your heart rate conveniently.
A fan provides great cooling effect to your heated body as you train and to add to your comfort, the seat and backrest of the bike are also vented. With Bluetooth connectivity, you can pair up with other devices and find other compatible fitness tracing apps.
The pedals have toe straps which secures your footing as you pedal away at the 25 levels of resistance available.
Pros
- 25 levels of resistance
- 29 workout program s
- Weighted flywheel
- Compatible with Ride Social
- USB port for data transfer
- Backlit LCD
Cons
- Tablet holder if occupied blocks the LCD
Verdict: So, which is better, Schwinn 270 or Nautilus R618?
Nautilus R618beats Schwinn 270 in the riding experience and the extra features and benefits that are available with the bike. This bike features commercial grade and motor-assisted resistance with 25 levels of resistance to chose from. The Bluetooth compatibility is what won me over because I can compete with my friends on apps such as RideSocial.