On the first viewing the York C302 cycle looks very similar in specification and styling to the York C301 except it's around 100 more. So is it worth the extra? When you look again you start to see the differences that we think does justify the price over its little brother.
The C302 has a more comfortable riding position than the C301 with more adjustable positions, much better handles with an addition of racing style grips, arm rests and a superior console with a bigger displays. The console has 5 LED windows to keep you informed of all your workout data such as distance, calories, speed, heart rate etc. The buttons are a little small but we didn't have any problems using them.
There are 22 pre-set programmes that range from the gentle warm-up to the very challenging so it should keep you going for many years. The 4 heart rate programmes are based on your age and alter speed targets and resistance levels to keep your pulse in the optimum zone for fitness and fat-burning. You can also design your own custom programme and use the fitness test to monitor your progress.
You can measure your heart rate by either the grips on the handles or using a chest strap (not included) with the built-in polar chip in the console which is far more accurate than the grips. Another extra is the ability to record the workout data of up to 4 different users which is handy if the whole family trying to get fit.
As with all York machines you can feel the quality and they seem to add those extras that make daily use easier such as a bottle holder, towel holder (behind the saddle) and transport wheels. The warranty is a great 3 year parts and labour cover so you can get an idea of their confidence in the bike.
Conclusion:
Another quality bike from York with a great solid feel and riding position. Worth the extra cost of the York C301 in our view.
Roy Palmer is a teacher of The Alexander Technique and has studied performance enhancement in sport for the last 10 years. In 2006 he published a book called 'Zone Mind, Zone Body' about how to achieve a peak performance more often. He's also a bit of an 'anorak' when it comes to exercise bikes and gadgets. To read his views on many more models please visit Exercise Bike Reviews.
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