The IC4 is able to sync with apps like Peloton digital, Explore the World, and Zwift via Bluetooth connectivity. I’m glad to see that Schwinn has released the Schwinn IC4, which is an upgrade from the brand’s first iteration, the IC3 bike. With the IC4, you get magnetic resistance instead of the friction pads of the IC3 and technology to connect with apps like Peloton and Zwift.
Schwinn is well known for its line of home exercise bikes, all of which are fairly priced and offer an effective solution for getting your sweat on from home. When it comes to deciding which stationary bike is best for you, it’s important to determine how often you’ll exercise — as well as where and when. With historic roots in outdoor cycling, Schwinn®’s focus has always been on authenticity and quality.
I love being able to charge my phone or tablet while completing a ride without the worry of my device dying mid-ride. Unfortunately, some Android users noticed a lag between the metrics on the LCD display and their connected device. I did not personally experience this problem while using my Apple device but it is still something to be aware of. Although the routes are scenic, there is no sound or instruction given. The only metrics shown on screen are time elapsed and distance traveled.
We appreciate how versatile this connectivity is, providing high-quality exercise that almost makes you feel like you’re at the gym. Peloton has become a household name over the past few years—both for the brand’s high-energy, integrated cycling workouts and high price tag. The main difference between the Peloton mongoose bicycles and the Schwinn IC4 is that the Peloton bike comes with a built-in display for following live classes or programmed workouts. The Peloton also comes with a camera for those who want to cycle with friends. It’s also worth noting that the Peloton is heavier at 135 pounds and has a larger footprint than the IC4 .
The Echelon is about as close to the Peloton as you can get, with the major differences being that the Echelon has only 32 resistance levels compared to Peloton’s 100. Both offer an interactive experience with a wide range of on-demand classes on an HD display that rotates 180 degrees, but the Echelon doesn’t require special cycling cleats. According to the brand, its extra-large cushioned seat is fully adjustable, and its handlebars are padded as well. Although it has two dumbbell holders to hold a set of 2-pound weights, the weights are not included.
We call it Carbon Blue™ – those who ride it call it “incredible”. The IC4 also includes two water bottle holders, an LCD console, a Bluetooth enabled heart rate armband monitor, and a set of 3-pound dumbbells schwinn spin bike that can be stored beneath the handlebars. Low impact — Schwinn exercise bikes provide a low-impact way of controlling your body weight. Since they are stationary, the spin bikes are gentle on the knees.
Additionally, the bike itself won’t log your stats like Peloton bikes, which is why I like to track my workouts using Apple’s Activity app. I can also view stats about my Peloton workouts in the Peloton app, but there’s no compatible Schwinn app that keeps tabs on your workouts. So if you want to track your overall data, you’ll have to take a photo with your phone or write it down from the display at the end of your workout. Overall, the bike provides a smooth ride and, even when I’m rocking from side to side, remains sturdily in place. The U-shaped handlebars offer a variety of ways for me to place my hands when riding and I found it easy to adjust the bike to my 5-foot-3-inch frame. The Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike offers an alternative for those wanting app connectivity, durability, and a great value.
The Schwinn IC4 is definitely the overall better option and is worth the extra money spent for a higher quality machine. The handlebars are adjustable depending on your preferred positioning. I like the shape and long length of the handlebars because they support you both in and out of the saddle. I chose to put the bike together myself but you can add assembly for under $150 if you want to save yourself the hassle. Although not very time consuming , the instructions were not the easiest to follow.