Spinner S1 vs. S3 – Spinbikeexpert

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The truth remains that obtaining a spinning bike is a great money and time saver. Even though you can do your workouts at the gym to a large extent, it is challenging to go for regular classes unless you are 100% dedicated – and the busy lifestyles we live today make it very hard to do so. In addition, it becomes very difficult to get a bike when you are rushing to the gym from work, yet you are in a hurry to do several things, so getting your own indoor bike helps you in many ways.

The good news is that there are plenty of good options you can choose from, as many manufacturers have stepped up to create good bikes for home use. Your choice will depend on what you are looking for, but we will choose to focus on two spin bikes in this article – the Spinner S3.

What to expect

The company behind the two bikes aims to create useful spinner bikes that are affordable and ideal for use in a residential environment, without generating too much noise – regardless of the specific model you choose to buy.

For comparison purposes, here is a table outlining their differences in summary:

Bike model	Spinner S1	Spinner S3
Maximum weight limits (lbs.)	250	250
Flywheel (lbs.)	31	31
Dimensions (inches)	44.2 x 32.8 x 10	43.5 x 33 x 10

Similarities

• Both feature a heavy steel frame
• Have a belt system that ensures they operate quietly and maintenance is low
• They use perimeter weighted flywheels, which give them plenty of momentum when you want to prevent slowing down of the pedals as you cycle
• You can adjust the resistance levels
• Both use a chain drive mechanism
• You can get complimentary workout DVDs
• Both us toe cup pedals to increase comfort during pedaling

S3 review

Key features

Frame

This is among the smallest models available in the S-line of Spinner bikes, as it is only 43” x 18”, which allows you to keep it in smaller apartments or rooms. It is still quite heavy though due to the steel frame, abut this plays an important role in ensuring it remains stable as you use it.

The bases are also full of rubber stabilizers to give it extra grip on the floor without leaving scratches. Its front base tube will also use a set of silicone wheels, which can allow you to relocate the bike. When you lean forward as you use it, you are basically handling less than half the total weight.

Handlebars and seat

The saddle here is adjustable in four increments, and is thicker than an average spin bike seat to provide you with more comfort during use. It is also quite easy to replace it, as the connection to its post is simple.

On the other hand, the handlebar gives you a multi-grip design that also integrates combined aero-bars. You can only adjust it vertically, although it has six increments in total. A sheet of rubber covers the handlebar to enhance its non-slip grip and increase comfort levels.

You will also notice pop-pins all over the handlebar and seat, and they allow you to change the dimensions quickly. Both of them are also rectangular, which makes it impossible to have the problem of sideways twisting, and helps in the sturdiness rating.

Resistance and drive

This uses a chain drive system that ensures you get a smooth ride, similar to that of a mountain bike. The flywheel is of medium size, but is perimeter weighted to ensure smooth motion. Note that reverse pedaling is possible due to the lack of derailleurs, but the resistance will remain constant and prevent you coasting on it.

Pros

• Limitless resistance settings
• Reduces stress on knees due to narrow Q Factor
• Strong and durable
• Easy to adjust the seat and handlebars
• Quiet and smooth operation

Cons

• Lacks a fitness computer unit

View price on Amazon

S1 review

Key features

Flywheel

This one has a perimeter weighted flywheel similar to the S3, weighing 31 lbs. while it will not have the natural feel of a heavier flywheel, it is great for beginners and people who moderately use the gym bike. There are leveler feet under the stabilizer bars, which you can quickly adjust to prevent wobbling.

Seat and handlebars

Similar to the S3, it also has a pop-pin knobs that help you to make quick adjustments to the seat, and you can only adjust the handlebars vertically while the seat can adjust both horizontally and vertically. It might lead to issues if you have a long or short torso at first, but it becomes easier to use as time goes by as you find the most comfortable position.

Note that you will need to adjust the knobs in the pop-pins, and this will prevent any shaking of the handlebars and seat as you use the machine.

Resistance levels

The S1 uses a pad above the flywheel, which gives the resistance you need to stimulate a hill climb cycling session. This is then protected by a guard that stops any sweat from getting into the inner components and flywheel.

The levels of resistance are consistent and continuous, which you can adjust through the tension knob (this is above the frame itself). However, it is difficult to return to previous settings, as there are no level markings to inform you of the changes you have made in the resistance, and you have to use your own feeling to know it. This is the case for many spin bikes as well.

Pros

• Has a water bottle holder
• Quiet and smooth operation mechanism
• Easy to set up and assemble
• Low maintenance
• Easy to move around to the transport wheels
• Good adjustment range

Cons

• Lacks pre-set workout programs or a console
• Handlebars cannot adjust horizontally
• Resistance pad and chain might make some noise
• Cannot plug in a tablet, MP3 player or book
• Pedals can only accommodate standard athletic shoes

View price on Amazon

Final thoughts

Both of these bikes offer you plenty of convenience during your home workouts, but our overall pick is the S3 spinner. It offers plenty of adjustment range in both the handlebars and seat, ensuring it remains comfortable, and it also has plenty of versatility that allows many people to use it regardless of height.