The IC2 is the least expensive model in the range that retails for a third of the price of the IC4. This relatively basic exercise bike has a 31 lb weighted flywheel with a felt pad to adjust the resistance level, and it features an LCD screen that displays current workout information. The IC4 is made for serious indoor cycling and it comes with a race style seat. The seat is slim, performance-oriented, and perfect for the intense cycling workouts this bike was designed for. We found it to be quite comfortable, with ample padding and a pressure relief cutout. Riders who prefer a wider, more supportive seat will likely find the race seat to be a bit too narrow, and it can easily be swapped out for the seat of your choice.
I personally test each piece of equipment and take into account the footprint, durability, adjustability, and overall workout experience. In this Schwinn IC4 review, I’ll give you the lowdown on app connectivity, assembly, and how this bike rode for me. In fact, I like this bike so much, it made my list of the best Peloton alternatives. In recent years, Peloton has made waves for its interactive programming and very expensive bike. At half the cost, the Schwinn IC4 Indoor Cycling Bike offers an alternative for those wanting app connectivity, durability, and a great value.
It also lacks certain features, including a USB port, forearm rests, and built-in speakers. 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 mongoose bicycles 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.
And don’t overlook spinning accessories like a padded, adjustable seat and easy-to-grip support handles. Depending on the day of the week, you might want to switch your workout up depending on how your body is feeling. If you’re just beginning, you’ll want to start off with a lower resistance so that you don’t hurt your knees, hips, and back. Once you feel stronger, you can build up the resistance so that you’re strengthening calf muscles, working up a sweat, and getting the most out of your workout. For the best of both worlds, you can follow a cycling training program that combines speed and resistance.
Another difference lies in the 22” swivel monitor from the Peloton versus the LCD backlit display. The Schwinn IC4 comes with included accessories the Peloton doesn’t have, such as 3 pound dumbbells and a heart rate monitor. This is useful for a variety of spin classes that incorporate upper body workouts into the ride. huffy beach cruiser I haven’t previously seen many of the best exercise bikesin this price range come with included weight. Once your preferred compatible app is connected to the bike via Bluetooth, the app auto-adjusts your resistance. You’ll be able to enjoy a hands-free workout without worrying about adjusting your resistance.
The screen automatically begins to display and record your workout information when the pedals start turning. Your workout automatically pauses if the pedals stop turning for 2 seconds and your workout ends and the display powers off after 5 minutes of inactivity. There are 5 buttons below the screen that control all of the functions of the display, including Bluetooth, start/enter/reset, and up and down arrows.
Yes, it does connect to either app easily and it works, it’s just far from perfect. First, we noticed that the speed and distance readings on the bike’s own display seemed too huffy beach cruiser high, in fact, they were way off. We like to think we are fast, but we also know that we average mph on an actual road ride, not even close to the 27 mph the IC4 recorded.
It’s equipped with adjustable handlebars and has been outfitted with a new motor for more precise resistance levels. If incline and decline cycling are important to you, note the Echelon won’t let you adjust either. Be sure to prioritize what your basic needs are — many of them might be met by relatively affordable options. Maybe you want to easily adjust the bike’s resistance, move its handlebars or just need something quiet for nighttime sweats.