The Schwinn 438 Elliptical is a vast improvement over the popular Model 418 Elliptical. It has a larger footprint and is more stable, allowing for a maximum load limit of 300 pounds. Despite its larger size, this elliptical trainer is relatively easy to move around. The handle on the back allows a good grip for lifting and moving the Schwinn elliptical. The wireless heart monitor was highly appreciated by most of the users and owners. Called telemetric heart rate monitoring and control, it allows your heart rate to control the resistance needed to keep your heart rate within the target range that you assign.
The Schwinn Model 438 Elliptical Trainer is manufactured by Nautilus under license from Schwinn. Nautilus does all the customer support for this model. There were only minor complaints related to customer support, most of which were slow replacement of spare or damaged parts. Most people who own the Schwinn 438 elliptical are relatively satisfied with their purchase. Initial setup is easy, requiring only the basic tools. The average time spent assembling the elliptical was approximately two hours. Missing bolts, washers, and sometimes a poorly made part were the main complaints made during the initial setup of the Schwinn 438. Several people received a poorly made neck with a broken or unfinished weld. Also, a fitness repair technician tells us that the electronic console is identical to some stationary bike models and isn’t very durable. However, all of the users we interviewed said they were happy with the electronics that went into the Schwinn 438 elliptical.
Most users of the Schwinn 438 elliptical said they liked the articulated pedals. However, taller people complained about the short, roughly 18-inch stride. Many larger users prefer a stride of at least 21 inches when engaging in full physical exertion. Height considerations are a constant problem for tall people. The owner of a Schwinn 438 elliptical said the machine was built for pygmies with its short stride and high profile. He has reported that he has to use the machine bent over or he will hit his head on the ceiling. The handlebars on Schwinn 438 elliptical trainers appear to be backwards and are uncomfortable to use. We cannot see any reason for this poor design feature which has caused several people to be unable to use their Schwinn 438 elliptical.
Schwinn 438 Elliptical Trainer Key Stats and Specifications:
o 8 computer controlled resistance levels
o 24 programs provide a variety of exercises
o Silent magnetic resistor ECB (eddy current brake)
o Grip and telemetric heart rate make it easy to track your progress
o LCD display shows time, speed, distance, revolutions per minute, resistance
Level, calories, calories per hour, load, heart rate and course profile
o Articulated foot plate
o Maximum user weight is 300 pounds
o 15-year frame warranty, 2-year parts, 1-year electronics, and 6-month labor
Most of all, we liked the Schwinn Model 438 Elliptical Trainer. We would definitely recommend it for the smaller user in the home. We also recommend finding someone who can adapt or fix the handlebars. It is durable and easy to use. Expect to spend in the $1000 range for the Schwinn 438 elliptical.
