The top model in Schwinn’s lineup of indoor cycling cycles is the IC4, and the company is well-known in the home fitness industry. It is a smart bike with connected capabilities, in addition to its robust construction, 40-lb weighted flywheel, and 100 levels of magnetic resistance.
This was a compelling idea worth exploring, as more individuals were exercising from home and catching on to the virtual cycling and interactive at-home studio trends. The IC4 impressed us with its great exercise, extreme comfort, and compatibility with well-known applications like Zwift, Peloton, and JRNY (a one-year membership is included).
Given that its retail price is far lower than that of many other connected bikes, it’s also a superb bargain. If the Bowflex C6 is available for cheaper money, get it, as they are identical bikes with different paint jobs.
Table of Contents
Highlights of Schwinn IC4
Warranty: Frame: 10 years, Parts: 5 years, Labor: 1 year
Highlight
- Item Dimensions: 48.7 x 21.2 x 51.8
- Item Weight: 112 Pounds
- Maximum Weight Recommendation: 330 Pounds
- Maximum Height: 52 Inches
- Number of Resistance Levels: 100
Overview
The Schwinn IC4 bike offers a high-end indoor cycling experience with premium features for a more affordable price. Its structure is compact enough for a home gym. It also has a comfortable sports seat that can be adjusted to your preferred fit and a multi-grip handlebar that supports different riding poses.
In addition to comfort, the IC4 has a water bottle holder that’s within easy reach so you can stay hydrated throughout your workout. The Schwinn IC4 also offers dual-link pedals, so you can choose between toe cages or SPD clips to change your riding style. The IC4 does not have a built-in touchscreen, but it does have an LCD console and a tablet holder above it.
Regarding mechanics and technology, the Schwinn IC4 is resistant to a 40-lb flywheel and a magnetic resistance system. The system offers 100 levels of resistance that make the IC4 suitable for a beginner and serious spinner. The bike also uses a belt drive system that helps ensure your ride is as smooth and quiet as possible.
The bike is also Bluetooth enabled, so you can sync a Bluetooth-enabled heart rate sensor. The LCD backlit display displays the heart rate data and other vital metrics like distance, RPM, calories burned, and time.
The Bluetooth connectivity also allows you to sync your fitness app to the bike for your workouts. The bike is compatible with many cycling apps like the Pelton and Zwift. You open the app on your tablet or device, sync and mount the device on the bike, and proceed.
Features
Bluetooth connectivity
The Schwinn IC4 bike supports Bluetooth connectivity, opening various training options. The IC4 is compatible with several popular fitness applications, like Peloton and Zwift, and allows users to explore the world. You can also access other applications using Bluetooth to connect to your tablet, phone, or smart TV. Bluetooth connectivity also allows you to sync the IC4 with a heart rate monitor for heart rate zone training.
Belt drive system
The IC4 uses the belt drive system instead of the chain, which is better for various reasons. First, you never have to worry about constant lubrication, which means less maintenance. Second, it generates fewer vibrations than the chain. It also helps ensure smoother and quieter rides.
Seat
The Schwinn IC4’s cushioned seat is standard for an exercise bike, but it’s not the most pleasant if you’re not used to it. Fortunately, you can quickly replace the seat if it is too painful. One advantage is that the seat may be adjusted in height and side to side. The bike easily fits riders who are between 4’6″ and 6’6″.
Pedals
The Schwinn IC4 pedals are dual-purpose; one side features caged toes for conventional shoes and SPD clips for cycling shoes. I prefer this alternative since not everyone wants to buy separate riding shoes.
Handlebars
You may adjust the handlebars to suit your chosen posture. I enjoy their design and length because they support you both in and out of the saddle.
Display
Regretfully, a few Android users reported a latency between the connected device’s metrics and those on the LCD. Although I haven’t encountered this issue with my Apple iPhone, it’s still something to be mindful of.
Its backlit LCD is straightforward, much like the Rogue Echo Bike. Using a suitable app, you must use your smartphone to watch a lesson. This is not the same as bikes like the Peloton, which have an integrated programming screen. Without an integrated screen, I don’t feel like losing out on anything after you connect your preferred device to the bike.
Magnetic resistance system
The IC4 offers a smooth and silent ride thanks to the magnetic resistance system. The system has 100 levels of micro-adjustable resistance for ultra-precise challenges. Further, the flywheel weighs 40 pounds, offering extra resistance, making the IC4 suitable even for severe spinners.
Pros
- Less costly than comparable substitutes
- Moveable and lightweight
- Quiet, comfortable ride
- Compatible with well-known programs like Peloton and Zwift
- Integrated holder for iPad or tablets
- One hundred tunable resistance levels
Cons
- Absence of integrated exercises on an integrated display
- It’s not very practical to assemble.
- Compared to several well-known fitness applications, LCD screen measurements are less comprehensive.
User Experience
Here is the Schwinn IC4 review of the owner
Pretty Pretty Pretty Good from Canada states: Listen, I wanted a Peloton bike like the rest of us, but I don’t have an extra $2500 or however much those babies are, so I got myself this sweet little Schwinn. It was relatively easy to put together. I had a little help tightening the screws.
It’s heavy, so the biggest obstacle was bringing it into my house from the garage. I had to replace the resistance knob almost immediately because the company had installed it improperly, and it was already worn out (it basically would not turn). I called the company, and they sent one out right away. I installed it correctly and have not had an issue since.
The bike is loud. It has a chain mechanism so you can hear it, it’s not crazy loud, I can’t hear it with my earbuds in as I listen to the Peloton app, so I think you’re okay there. I do recommend buying some silicone goo that goes on treadmills – I forget what it’s called, but I apply it to the resistance knob to keep it easy to turn and to the wheel pad to keep the wheel lubed up.
The more resistance you apply, the more the wheel pad is pressed against the wheel, causing friction, so the lube is a must, in my opinion. It also eliminates that loud, screechy sound some people report hearing when you use a lot of resistance. It’s not a perfect bike, but it’s well worth the money and provides a fantastic workout. Oh, and it looks great.
Who is the Schwinn IC4 best suited for?
The Schwinn IC4 is suitable for beginners and serious spinners who want a flexible indoor bike that caters to a wide range of fitness levels. It is also ideal for individuals who wish to experience the Peloton experience but aren’t willing to pay the high price.
Conclusion
The Schwinn IC4 may not offer all the premium features of high-end indoor bikes, like a touchscreen or a cooling fan, but it provides some pretty great features for its price. For example, the belt drive and magnetic resistance system ensure you enjoy a quiet ride.
The Warranty offer is also more generous than some models that cost more than the IC4. You should consider buying the Schwinn IC4 if you’re looking for a premium experience for a more affordable price.
FAQs
Does A Subscription Apply To The Schwinn IC4?
It is not necessary to have a membership to utilize the Schwinn IC4. You may cycle manually without paying more or following an exercise regimen. Nevertheless, you can ride the bike with compatible applications like Peloton and Zwift or buy the Explore the World app—Schwinn’s exercise subscription service.
Is There Enough Resistance in the Schwinn IC4?
Resistance on the Schwinn IC4 is 100 levels, which is similar to that of other exercise cycles.
Is It Possible to Conduct Live Classes on the Schwinn IC4 Using Subscriptions Other Than Peloton?
It is possible to link your Schwinn IC4 exercise cycle to other fitness applications, including the Peloton app.
