Just when everyone thought that Schwinn had pulled out all the stops with the Schwinn 430, no one knew that they would be able to engineer a model that will arguably beat it. Well they just have with the Schwinn 460 Elliptical Trainer.
The biggest difference with the Schwinn 460 elliptical trainer is the new Variable Stride Technology allowing you to adjust the stride length by applying pressure with your feet on the pedals, without having to step off the machine. Stride length can be adjusted from 2 to 26 inches so finding your comfort zone is extremely easy once you get the hang of it.
In comparison with other elliptical machines within the affordable range, the Schwinn 460 is well constructed, made from higher graded steel than the 430. Even with its smaller footprint on much bigger, more expensive elliptical machines, the 460 holds up extremely well on stability.
After assembly, which usually takes only a couple of hours, the initial observations are the compactness; the solid rubber coated/slip resistant pedals and the ergonomic design of the handles.
The Schwinn 460 elliptical trainer console houses a backlit touch screen which is not only very simple to use but it very intuitive and easy to read. It will display the usual speed, time, distance, calories and level and makes workouts simple and easy to perform. The manual mode is self explanatory but there are also 16 programs, two of which are customizable for 2 users. This is quite a cool feature as it keeps track of your total usage per user and the display will indicate what kind of stride you need to perform during the pre-programmed workout.
With the variable stride and usual functioning of elliptical machines, the Schwinn 460 elliptical trainer is extremely versatile. For cardio fitness, high intensity interval training is easily possible for effective calorie burn but with the 16 resistance levels, resistance training is also possible. There are heart rate sensors in the hand grips but the heart rate monitoring strap provided is instantaneous and is a feature you normally would only find on more premium ellipticals.
On the practical side, the water bottle holder is conveniently positioned and the built-in 3 speed fan works extremely well during the more intense workouts.
Pros - Versatile, Construction, Value, Compact, Variable Stride
Cons - Warranty
The Schwinn 430 is already a top seller with home users, so it is quite apparent that with all the upgrades on the 460, that these elliptical machines will prove a fantastic investment also. If you are looking for an elliptical that is affordable but is also extremely versatile to facilitate all kinds of cardio workouts, then look no further than the Schwinn 460 elliptical trainer.