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As one of the most popular bikes on Amazon the Horizon Fitness must be doing something right with their RC-30 Recumbent Exercise Bike we review here. It could be the keen price point, at less than $400, or the features such as the 10lb fly wheel. Either way there it faces some tough competition from Schwinn with thier 270 recumbent bike.
We will review the RC-30 and compare the features with the Schwinn 270 before giving you a recommendation.
Training on an exercise bike is my favorite form of Cardio exercise. Whether your goals are weight loss, or endurance training both can be achieved with a recumbent bike. With a lower strain on the back compared to an upright bike, the recumbent is a comfortable place to spend an hour or so working out. Unlike an Elliptical or treadmill you still have your hands free for reading.
- Our Analysis
- Full Specs
- Video
Flywheel
At the heart of this machine is a 10lb flywheel. This is on the lighter side, but not bad for the price. Users find it to be smooth and stable at normal speeds. More importantly the belt drive is nearly silent and the whole machine barely makes a whisper as you workout. This is perfect if you want to watch TV while exercising.
Resistance
With the Horizon RC-30 there are 8 levels of resistance. The top level gives a good challenge, with the first few levels perfect for a light warm up. Most users will be comfortable between levels 4-6 for a longer workout.
Built in Programs
With 8 builtin programs Horizin have gone for simplicity. The programs target either fat loss or training, and are all about 30 minutes long including a warm-up. I
In full the programs are: Manual, Intervals, Rolling Hills, Weight Loss, Tempo, Random, Custom 1, and Custom 2 all are about 30 minutes long.
Comfort
The RC-30 seat is large and padded, making for a comfortable place to sit and train for an hour or so. With the seat being for and aft adjustable you will find a comfortable position whether you are 5′ up to 6’4″ Maximum user weight is 275Lbs
Console
With the clear and easy to use console you will be up and running in no time. The resistance levels are easy to access numbered 1-8 across the console, just hit the number you want.
At the base of the console is a shelf suitable for a tablet computer or a magazine. There is no support for sound, or is there a fan.
Overall the console looks good and remains very simple, and basic to use. If you don’t like a lot of complex buttons then this is perfect.
Warranty
The warranty is reasonably good for a bike at this level: lifetime on the frame, 20 years on the brake, and one year on parts and labor.
Specifications
Measures 66 x 52 x 26 inches
Max user weight: 275 pounds
Pros and Cons of the Horizon Fitness RC-30 Exercise Bike
- A comfortable and quiet exercise bike
- Quick adjust saddle for multiple user support
- The appearance is very close to the bikes you would find in the gym.
- Horizon have invested in build quality rather than going overboard on the features.
Cons
- This is a basic, if solid bike. You are not getting any “bells and whistles” here.
- Build time is quite long at 2-3 hours
What do other reviews say about the Horizon RC-30?
This is a popular and well made bike, scoring well in customer feedback at 4.3 out of five stars.
Customers love its overall build quality, and that its simple to use. Many users are taking up cycling on the advice of a doctor, and this is great with its easy step through frame.
“So far, the Horizon Bike has performed well. It is quiet, the electronics are easy to use, and unlike many such bikes, it is easy to mount and dismount.”
Product Specifications
Frame
| Frame Type | Step-Through Recumbent Frame |
| Flywheel | 4.5 kg / 10 lbs |
| Handlebars | Console-Mounted and Seat-Mounted Handlebar Options |
| Pedals | Self-Balancing Pedals with Adjustable Straps |
| Seat Type | Large Comfort Seat with Lumbar Support |
| Seat Adjustment | Horizontally Adjustable |
Console
| Display Type | 12.4 cm / 5″ Backlit LCD |
| Display Feedback | Time, Distance, Speed, Calories, Heart Rate, Incline, Watts |
| Programs | 8 Programs – Manual, Intervals, Rolling, Weight Loss, Tempo, Random, Custom 1, Custom 2 |
| Heart Rate | Contact Grips |
Extras
| Extras | Water Bottle Holder |
Resistance System
| Resistance System | ECB Magnetic Brake |
| Resistance Levels | 8 Levels, Handlebar Toggles |
Tech Specs
| Power Requirements | 110 – 120 Volt Circuit |
| Assembled Dimensions (L x W x H) | 168 x 66 x 132 cm / 66 x 26 x 52″ |
| Assembled Weight | 48 kg / 106 lbs |
| Shipping Dimensions (L x W x H) | 117 x 46 x 76 cm / 46 x 18 x 30″ |
| Shipping Weight | 58 kg / 128 lbs |
| User Weight Capacity | 125 kg / 275 lbs |
Summary:
As a solid entry level recumbent bike this takes some beating. OK so its not loaded up with features, like the Schwinn 270. However it is not setting out to do that. Horizon have made a bike that is long lasting, simple , comfortable and easy to use.
This is not just for athletes, its for normal people looking for a little extra exercise in their life. If thats you then we recommend the Horizon RC-30.