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Editor’s Note: The Schwinn 870 Treadmill is no longer in production. We suggest viewing the Schwinn 810 as the best alternative, or view our guide to the best treadmills for more options.
Schwinn is a well-known name in the fitness community. Since 1895, they’ve been pioneers in the industry, inventing, marketing, and selling some of the most innovative and high-quality pieces of fitness equipment on the market.
While they’re usually associated with their top-of-the-line exercise bikes, Schwinn created a small line of treadmills as well, including the budget-friendly Schwinn 810, mid-tier Schwinn 830, and deluxe Schwinn 870. Today, we’re providing a Schwinn 870 treadmill review, highlighting the features that their best treadmill offers.
The Schwinn 870 treadmill boasted impressive specs including a commercial-grade 3.0 CHP motor, a SoftDrop folding system, a luxurious six-cell Softrak cushioning system, and a handful of extras including in-console speakers, an MP3 port, USB charging, Bluetooth connectivity, 26 workout programs, and a three-speed fan to help you keep cool while working out.
At a mid-tier price, you could do much worse than the Schwinn 870 for your home gym. However, you’ll be hard pressed to find one today since it’s discontinued, and there are options with similar hardware and features that include bigger, better screens.
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More Than Your “Run of the (Tread) Mill” Review
Our reviewers at Garage Gym Reviews put in the work to get the answers you need, whether it’s regarding high-quality fitness equipment, excellent workout routines, or information on health and nutrition that helps you live a healthy life.
That’s why, when it comes to high-end treadmill brands like NordicTrack, ProForm, BowFlex, and more, we know our stuff inside and out. We are certified personal trainers, CrossFit-L1 trainers, and nutrition experts. We’ve gotten in our steps on some of the best treadmills out there in order to provide you with the best and most comprehensive information out there.
Looking for an Alternative to the Schwinn 870 Treadmill?
Best Alternative to Schwinn 870
Schwinn 810 Treadmill
Product Highlights
- Folding treadmill
- Transport wheels
- 2.6 CHP
- Top speed 10 MPH
- Incline up to 10%
- 16 built-in programs
- Running surface measures 55″ L x 20″ W
- Heart rate pulse grips
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Folding design
- Bluetooth technology
- Cushioned running deck
- Users reported it to be very quiet
- 16 workout programs
- Cushioned deck is comfortable
- 10 percent incline levels
Cons
- Weak motor
- Warranty is so-so
- USB port is for charging only; cannot transfer data
- Some users report integrated speakers are weak
Bottom Line
While the Schwinn lacks the power and bells and whistles found on more expensive models, it has a sturdy build capable of providing users with challenging workouts.
The fact of the matter is the Schwinn 870 treadmill, despite some of its shortcomings, did a lot of things right. The hardware is high-quality and powerful, the running surface is generous, the features are more than enough to get in a good sesh, and the price was reasonable.
If you want a similar, nearly identical, experience by the same manufacturer, the humble Schwinn 810 treadmill is an excellent alternative. Side by side, it offers less, it’s smaller, and it’s lighter, but the user experience is very similar.
Those who like a good Schwinn treadmill who are disappointed about the Schwinn 870 becoming discontinued will likely be happy with the Schwinn 810 as an alternative.
A Quick Look at the Schwinn 870 Treadmill
As the crème de la crème of the Schwinn treadmill line, they incorporated quite a bit in the 870 model. It has impressive hardware specs, including a 3.0 CHP motor, sizable running area, speed and incline that go up to 12 MPH and 15% respectively, and a plush six-cell Softrak cushioning system that takes pity on your achy joints as you get in those steps.
Schwinn utilizes some user-friendly features, too, including speakers, an MP3 port with USB charging, Bluetooth connectivity, and a cooling fan for good measure. The Schwinn 870 also allows you to set up four different user profiles. It’s also a folding treadmill, so you can use it and lose it by taking advantage of the SoftDrop folding system.
If you’re looking for a great cardio experience, the Schwinn 870 delivers and then some.
Pros:
- Sizable running area
- Powerful 3.0 CHP motor
- Sturdy folding treadmill
- Incline up to 15%
Cons:
- Primitive display
- Limited warranty
- Discontinued
Schwinn 870 Treadmill Specs
| Footprint | 72.2” L x 35.2” W x 57.6” H |
| Weight | 215 lbs |
| Weight Capacity | 300 lbs |
| Motor | 3.0 CHP Motor |
| Walking Belt | 20” W x 60” L |
| Display | DualTrack™ blue backlit LCD display |
| Incline | 0%-15% |
| Speed | 0-12 MPH |
| Programs | 26 workout apps |
| Foldable | Yes |
| Warranty | 10-year frame and motor, 2-year parts and electrical, and 1-year labor warranty |
Key Features of the Schwinn 870 Treadmill
With solid hardware specs and some extra add-ins to make for a more comprehensive user experience, there’s a lot to love about the Schwinn 870.
Footprint, Portability, and Durability
Sizewise, you should get what you’re looking for from the Schwinn 870. It has a standard footprint and is relatively lightweight when fully assembled, especially considering it can accommodate a user weight up to 300 lbs. Plus, the tread belt is a standard 20 inches wide and forgiving 60 inches long, making it good even for taller runners.
RELATED: 6 Best Treadmill for Tall Runners (2024): Great Machines Supporting Long Strides
The size of the running area is not its only positive feature either; the belt is 2-ply, making for a thicker, more durable belt compared to others in its price range. This rugged running belt rests on 2.5-inch crowned rollers, which, combined with the 3.0 CHP motor, make for a light commercial-grade durability.
The Schwinn 870 also makes great use of Schwinn’s SoftDrop folding system, which, coupled with its functional transport wheels, allow users to fold up and store the treadmill when it’s not in use. While its footprint is standard, it can still be used in relatively tight quarters.
Ergonomics
Overall, the Schwinn 870 offers an enjoyable user experience, implementing a number of smart features that make using it a breeze, but it’s not without some drawbacks.
The six-cell Softrak cushioning system provides impact reduction that your joints will appreciate. It’s not as advanced as premium tier options, like NordicTrack’s adjustable FlexSelect cushioning, but it is still preferred over the pavement outside.
The console is straightforward and simple, as well, allowing users to change speed and incline with a single touch. Dual readouts display different data simultaneously, but the display itself is reminiscent of treadmills you’d find decades ago. Users with refined tastes who prefer fancy HD touchscreen displays will find the Schwinn 870 severely lacking in this department.
Technology Benefits and Conveniences
The Schwinn 870 treadmill is very thoughtful with some of its technology, benefits, and conveniences.
For example, the Schwinn 870 includes Bluetooth connectivity that allows you to connect wireless heart rate chest straps or music devices for playing through the in-console speakers. If you don’t happen to have a chest strap, the Schwinn 870 has you covered, as heart rate monitoring is built right into the machine. Simply grip the handles beneath the console and get a quick read on your heart health!
When it comes to workout data, the Schwinn 870 actually monitors your performance during the workout, providing a Schwinn Fitness Score after each workout to help users see how they did and track progress accordingly.
The treadmill console is loaded with other conveniences too, including water bottle holders, a cooling fan, and a tablet holder up top for watching Netflix or using fitness apps like RunSocial.
It may lack a luxurious HD touchscreen display, but there are still a number of great features to help boost the Schwinn 870 into the category to contend with premium treadmills.
Final Verdict of Our Schwinn 870 Treadmill Review
If you happen upon a Schwinn 870 and you’re in the market for a treadmill, you’ll find a lot to love, so long as its lack of interactive screen isn’t a dealbreaker. It’s a treadmill with impressive specs and a solid collection of features.
We don’t recommend breaking the bank to buy one, though. Given the features and hardware, it’s a great choice, but not worth the price point when many options today include everything the Schwinn 870 does and more.
Combined with the fact it’s discontinued, you’ll likely be happier with the Schwinn 810 or another great high-end treadmill.
Schwinn 870 Treadmill Rating
Schwinn 870 Treadmill
Did you know Schwinn makes more than just great exercise bikes? Here’s a Schwinn 870 treadmill review and, since it’s discontinued, a great alternative, as well!
Product Currency: USD
Product Price: 899
Product In-Stock: InStock
3.4
Schwinn 870 Treadmill FAQs
Is Schwinn a good brand for treadmills?
Fitness enthusiasts know and trust Schwinn for their top-of-the-line exercise bikes, including the notorious Airdyne bike. Schwinn brings that same quality to their treadmills, making them a good choice for those looking for a quality treadmill.
How many years should a treadmill last?
On average, treadmills last for about 10 years. However, performing preventative treadmill maintenance could extend the lifespan beyond this estimate.
Is walking on a treadmill better than walking outside?
As with all things fitness, it depends on your goals.
If you’re trying to get in your steps for weight control and regular health purposes, a treadmill offers many benefits. The belt reduces impact on your joints, and you do not have to contend with adverse weather conditions.
On the other hand, the uneven terrain and other outdoor stimuli help improve your proprioception while keeping the brain stimulated during exercise.
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